Location: Overland Park, KS Service: Value-Based, Full-Service Remodel & Furnishings This home was screaming, ‘I have SO much potential!’ The scope included a kitchen refresh, living room refresh and furnishing, and a full renovation for the primary bathroom. A lot can be done even on a tight budget and this project is a perfect example of that. In the kitchen, dual-tone painted cabinets, new hardware, new counters and backsplash, additional corner base cabinet, a custom hood and open shelving really set the tone when entering the home. In the living room, perhaps the biggest change was the layout. The seating area was rotated 180 degrees to face the fireplace which received a colorful facelift to match the kitchen shelving. The primary bathroom was gutted. The open half wall was replaced with a full wall and pocket door to create a true master suite. Light and bright selections make this small space feel larger. The transformation can only be truly appreciated when you see the before pictures so scroll down to view. “… I hired Jessica to help with a complete remodel of my house. She was very professional and worked daily with my contractor to ensure the design was executed correctly and handle the unexpected bumps in the road. If it hadn't been for her, I would have been under major stress. She was always on top of things and making sure it was done correctly. My project turned out amazing! It doesn't even resemble what it use to be.” - Sandy C.

Location: Overland Park, KS Service: Value-Based, Full-Service Remodel & Furnishings This home was screaming, ‘I have SO much potential!’ The scope included a kitchen refresh, living room refresh and furnishing, and a full renovation for the primary bathroom. A lot can be done even on a tight budget and this project is a perfect example of that. In the kitchen, dual-tone painted cabinets, new hardware, new counters and backsplash, additional corner base cabinet, a custom hood and open shelving really set the tone when entering the home. In the living room, perhaps the biggest change was the layout. The seating area was rotated 180 degrees to face the fireplace which received a colorful facelift to match the kitchen shelving. The primary bathroom was gutted. The open half wall was replaced with a full wall and pocket door to create a true master suite. Light and bright selections make this small space feel larger. The transformation can only be truly appreciated when you see the before pictures so scroll down to view. “… I hired Jessica to help with a complete remodel of my house. She was very professional and worked daily with my contractor to ensure the design was executed correctly and handle the unexpected bumps in the road. If it hadn't been for her, I would have been under major stress. She was always on top of things and making sure it was done correctly. My project turned out amazing! It doesn't even resemble what it use to be.” - Sandy C.

Location: Overland Park, KS Service: Value-Based, Full-Service Remodel & Furnishings This home was screaming, ‘I have SO much potential!’ The scope included a kitchen refresh, living room refresh and furnishing, and a full renovation for the primary bathroom. A lot can be done even on a tight budget and this project is a perfect example of that. In the kitchen, dual-tone painted cabinets, new hardware, new counters and backsplash, additional corner base cabinet, a custom hood and open shelving really set the tone when entering the home. In the living room, perhaps the biggest change was the layout. The seating area was rotated 180 degrees to face the fireplace which received a colorful facelift to match the kitchen shelving. The primary bathroom was gutted. The open half wall was replaced with a full wall and pocket door to create a true master suite. Light and bright selections make this small space feel larger. The transformation can only be truly appreciated when you see the before pictures so scroll down to view. “… I hired Jessica to help with a complete remodel of my house. She was very professional and worked daily with my contractor to ensure the design was executed correctly and handle the unexpected bumps in the road. If it hadn't been for her, I would have been under major stress. She was always on top of things and making sure it was done correctly. My project turned out amazing! It doesn't even resemble what it use to be.” - Sandy C.

This bathroom remodel project artfully combines classic elements with modern touches, resulting in an elegant and sophisticated retreat. The design team has masterfully crafted a space that exudes both style and function, making it the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The focal point of this spacious bathroom is the luxurious marble countertop, featuring dual sinks and sleek faucets. The countertop sits atop a glossy wooden vanity that provides ample storage, blending form and function in perfect harmony. The large mirror, adorned with contemporary light fixtures, reflects the abundance of natural light that flows into the space, creating an airy atmosphere. Adding to the charm and privacy of the bathroom is a set of white plantation shutters that separate the bathing area from the rest of the space. The pristine white bathtub, accompanied by a wooden tray for added convenience, invites relaxation and indulgence. The wooden tray not only adds functionality but also lends a touch of warmth to the otherwise cool-toned space. Adjacent to the bathtub, a walk-in shower with a glass door showcases clean lines and minimalistic design. A black faucet with a matching handle adds an unexpected touch of contrast to the predominantly white space, creating visual interest and breaking the monochromatic palette. The elegant combination of materials and textures, along with the thoughtful layout, makes this bathroom remodel a testament to the power of timeless design. The result is a space that exudes luxury and tranquility, a true oasis for homeowners seeking solace in the comfort of their own home.

This bathroom remodel project artfully combines classic elements with modern touches, resulting in an elegant and sophisticated retreat. The design team has masterfully crafted a space that exudes both style and function, making it the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The focal point of this spacious bathroom is the luxurious marble countertop, featuring dual sinks and sleek faucets. The countertop sits atop a glossy wooden vanity that provides ample storage, blending form and function in perfect harmony. The large mirror, adorned with contemporary light fixtures, reflects the abundance of natural light that flows into the space, creating an airy atmosphere. Adding to the charm and privacy of the bathroom is a set of white plantation shutters that separate the bathing area from the rest of the space. The pristine white bathtub, accompanied by a wooden tray for added convenience, invites relaxation and indulgence. The wooden tray not only adds functionality but also lends a touch of warmth to the otherwise cool-toned space. Adjacent to the bathtub, a walk-in shower with a glass door showcases clean lines and minimalistic design. A black faucet with a matching handle adds an unexpected touch of contrast to the predominantly white space, creating visual interest and breaking the monochromatic palette. The elegant combination of materials and textures, along with the thoughtful layout, makes this bathroom remodel a testament to the power of timeless design. The result is a space that exudes luxury and tranquility, a true oasis for homeowners seeking solace in the comfort of their own home.

Location: Overland Park, KS Service: Value-Based, Full-Service Remodel & Furnishings This home was screaming, ‘I have SO much potential!’ The scope included a kitchen refresh, living room refresh and furnishing, and a full renovation for the primary bathroom. A lot can be done even on a tight budget and this project is a perfect example of that. In the kitchen, dual-tone painted cabinets, new hardware, new counters and backsplash, an additional corner base cabinet, a custom hood and open shelving really set the tone when entering the home. In the living room, perhaps the biggest change was the layout. The seating area was rotated 180 degrees to face the fireplace which received a colorful facelift to match the kitchen shelving. The primary bathroom was gutted. The open half wall was replaced with a full wall and pocket door to create a true master suite. Light and bright selections make this small space feel larger. The transformation can only be truly appreciated when you see the before pictures so scroll down to view. “… I hired Jessica to help with a complete remodel of my house. She was very professional and worked daily with my contractor to ensure the design was executed correctly and handle the unexpected bumps in the road. If it hadn't been for her, I would have been under major stress. She was always on top of things and making sure it was done correctly. My project turned out amazing! It doesn't even resemble what it use to be.” - Sandy C.

This brownstone renovation was a full gut project in every sense of the word. On top of installing new floors, a kitchen and bath renovation, and all the typical restoration and refinishing involved in a brownstone built in 1899, we also completely updated the exterior, constructed a balcony that was not originally there, and converted the space from a single-family home into an an owner’s triplex. A newly separated studio rental on the garden level offers the opportunity for supplemental income, an uncommon and welcome addition to a New York brownstone. A TRANSITIONAL GEM The result is a two-family brownstone that perfectly combines classic townhouse living with today’s modern needs, including SmartHome technology that we installed to control Bluetooth speakers, Nest thermostats, and the security system. The overall aesthetic goal was to pay homage to the historical periods the brownstone has lived through in a cohesive way that is the hallmark of modern transitional style. In the kitchen, white Shaker-style cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, and marble rather than quartz countertops bring a classically upscale sensibility. To modernize the space further, we opened up the back wall to create floor-to-ceiling windows that are also doors, opening up into the newly built balcony. TIMELY TOUCHES This brownstone renovation included many quintessential elements, such as millwork like the ceiling medallions. We restored some and custom built others, perfectly recreating their original appearance. The heated master bathroom is now serene, with a walk-in shower featuring a subtly modern linear drain. A herringbone Carrera marble tiled floor and marble slab sink complete the scene. In the powder room, we embraced a contemporary look by pairing dark hexagonal floors with light chevron tiles, accented with dramatic navy blue wallpaper. With its clear-cut 1920s-style, we selected the wall sconce to reference one of the brownstone’s earlier eras. DESIGN DETAILS Natural oak herringbone floors we installed throughout the entire home bring a modern yet warm touch. We restored the wood-burning marble fireplace, which is fully functioning. An elegant staircase with a custom-crafted black wooden banister and white balusters winds up and down alongside a real brick interior wall that we restored and refinished. In this brownstone renovation, we were also able to create ceiling height, an unexpected yet aesthetically pleasing side benefit. When working on the joists and beams to level out the floors (a common issue in pre-war renovations) we added ceiling height in the main parlor floor by taking the second floor and raising the ceiling an entire foot. The end result is a main floor with stunning 9-foot ceilings. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - Solid natural oak herringbone floors throughout - A fully restored, refinished, and functioning wood burning fireplace with a marble mantle - Complete exterior renovation of the facade, cornices, windows, mouldings, and even the ironwork, including the railings leading up to the stoop and those facing the street - A brand new central air and heating system with uniquely modern vents – look above the couch in the living room with the fuzzy rug and large painting Considering a brownstone renovation? Contact us today! We specialize in brownstone renovations in New York as well as all pre-war apartments. When you work with a design-and-build firm like Gallery to renovate your brownstone, you get the full range of our expertise in working with all the finest details and pre-war architectural elements of these classic New York spaces. We also handle every step of the process, from filing permits and organizing schedules to sourcing custom pieces and building entirely new rooms (or even balconies). Call us for a free initial consultation when you’re ready.

Sports Loving family friendly Fenway Park speaks to this family's love of the Boston Red Sox. Photo Credit: Donna Dotan
Bedroom and mid-sized trendy boy medium tone wood floor kids' bedroom photo in New York with blue walls

At Progressive Builders, we believe that kitchen remodeling should not be expensive, that’s why we offer a wide range of services at the most affordable. Just give us a call today and we would help you design a truly stunning kitchen without you having to go through any hassles. Contact the leading names in kitchen remodeling in Norwalk and experience the difference. Kitchen Remodeling in Norwalk, CA - http://progressivebuilders.la/

High in the sky deluxe renovation. New kitchen, master bathroom and powder room. New living/dining room and master bedroom furnishing. ND Interiors is a full-service interior design studio based in Westchester County, New York. Our goal is to create timelessly stylish spaces that are in equal parts beautiful and functional. Principal Designer Nancy Davilman embraces the philosophy that every good design choice comes from the dynamic relationship between client and designer. Recognized for her keen eye and wide-ranging experience, Nancy builds every project upon these fundamentals: An understanding of the client’s lifestyle at home;. An appreciation for the client’s tastes, goals, time frame and budget; and Consideration of the character and distinctiveness of the home. The result is timelessly stylish spaces that are in equal parts beautiful and functional -- often featuring unexpected elements and one-of-a-kind finds from Nancy’s vast network of sources. ND Interiors welcomes projects of all sizes.

This brownstone renovation was a full gut project in every sense of the word. On top of installing new floors, a kitchen and bath renovation, and all the typical restoration and refinishing involved in a brownstone built in 1899, we also completely updated the exterior, constructed a balcony that was not originally there, and converted the space from a single-family home into an an owner’s triplex. A newly separated studio rental on the garden level offers the opportunity for supplemental income, an uncommon and welcome addition to a New York brownstone. A TRANSITIONAL GEM The result is a two-family brownstone that perfectly combines classic townhouse living with today’s modern needs, including SmartHome technology that we installed to control Bluetooth speakers, Nest thermostats, and the security system. The overall aesthetic goal was to pay homage to the historical periods the brownstone has lived through in a cohesive way that is the hallmark of modern transitional style. In the kitchen, white Shaker-style cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, and marble rather than quartz countertops bring a classically upscale sensibility. To modernize the space further, we opened up the back wall to create floor-to-ceiling windows that are also doors, opening up into the newly built balcony. TIMELY TOUCHES This brownstone renovation included many quintessential elements, such as millwork like the ceiling medallions. We restored some and custom built others, perfectly recreating their original appearance. The heated master bathroom is now serene, with a walk-in shower featuring a subtly modern linear drain. A herringbone Carrera marble tiled floor and marble slab sink complete the scene. In the powder room, we embraced a contemporary look by pairing dark hexagonal floors with light chevron tiles, accented with dramatic navy blue wallpaper. With its clear-cut 1920s-style, we selected the wall sconce to reference one of the brownstone’s earlier eras. DESIGN DETAILS Natural oak herringbone floors we installed throughout the entire home bring a modern yet warm touch. We restored the wood-burning marble fireplace, which is fully functioning. An elegant staircase with a custom-crafted black wooden banister and white balusters winds up and down alongside a real brick interior wall that we restored and refinished. In this brownstone renovation, we were also able to create ceiling height, an unexpected yet aesthetically pleasing side benefit. When working on the joists and beams to level out the floors (a common issue in pre-war renovations) we added ceiling height in the main parlor floor by taking the second floor and raising the ceiling an entire foot. The end result is a main floor with stunning 9-foot ceilings. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - Solid natural oak herringbone floors throughout - A fully restored, refinished, and functioning wood burning fireplace with a marble mantle - Complete exterior renovation of the facade, cornices, windows, mouldings, and even the ironwork, including the railings leading up to the stoop and those facing the street - A brand new central air and heating system with uniquely modern vents – look above the couch in the living room with the fuzzy rug and large painting Considering a brownstone renovation? Contact us today! We specialize in brownstone renovations in New York as well as all pre-war apartments. When you work with a design-and-build firm like Gallery to renovate your brownstone, you get the full range of our expertise in working with all the finest details and pre-war architectural elements of these classic New York spaces. We also handle every step of the process, from filing permits and organizing schedules to sourcing custom pieces and building entirely new rooms (or even balconies). Call us for a free initial consultation when you’re ready.

Not every home can handle teal—but this one absolutely owns it. What could have felt bold instead became the defining feature of a kitchen full of personality, warmth, and confidence. Rooted in a mid-century modern aesthetic that aligns seamlessly with the rest of the home, the design embraces clean lines, thoughtful restraint, and intentional details. Minimal gold hardware delicately cuffs the edges of the slab cabinet doors and drawers, adding just enough contrast to elevate the sleek, streamlined look without overwhelming it. While the renovation remained within the existing footprint, one strategic change made a significant impact—introducing an additional entrance from the front door. This simple move opened up the entire first floor, creating a natural connection between spaces and improving the overall flow of the home. 123 With space at a premium, custom cabinetry became essential. Every inch was maximized with purpose—from a narrow pull-out spice rack to a fully concealed dishwasher, and stretching cabinetry to the ceiling —proving that highly functional design can still feel clean and effortless. And then there are the details that bring it all together. A matte white faucet offers an unexpected, sculptural moment that feels both modern and refined. Overhead, a custom linear light fixture anchors the space, adding a tailored element that the homeowner truly fell in love with. The result is a kitchen that feels cohesive, efficient, and uniquely personal—proof that great design isn’t about more space, but about making every inch count. The result is a space that feels both expressive and efficient, all while remaining timelessly classy. Every material choice brings personality, warmth, and cohesion to the room.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

Kelly Keul Duer and Merima Hopkins
Eat-in kitchen - transitional eat-in kitchen idea in DC Metro with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartzite countertops, white backsplash, glass tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

The overarching design intent for this 1,455-square-foot West Vine Street condominium was to make the spaces contemporary and functional. The renovation began with an unexpected structural deficiency in the form of a post located in the middle of the living room that was causing a three-inch dip in the floor. It was removed and replaced with steel columns running down through the walls and into a footing pad with a three-foot depth. The main living spaces underwent significant changes; the kitchen was reconfigured to open up a formerly cramped space, and the removal of a wall made room for a cascading island with Cesarstone countertops—a crowning feature. Additionally, an electrical panel was relocated to be able to wrap the refrigerator with a wood veneer frame. Notable materials include eight-inch-wide ‘Esplanade’ French oak plank floors chosen to complement the reclaimed wood-wrapped ceiling beams, which feature a combination of LED downlighting and uplighting. A sleek gas fireplace with horizontal slate surround and paneled wall backing replaced an old wood-burning stove—furthering the design program. Pacheco-Robb Architects dismantled an existing spiral stair and replaced it with a cable-rail system—a nautical nod—which is noteworthy for the way it meets code; by running a contiguous oak banister for the entire length of the stair, they were able to avoid having to add a second railing, which would shrink the already narrow stairwell. Upstairs, a tight bedroom with gabled ceilings was addressed by adding a solar-operated skylight with built-in shade, plus minimalistic furnishings. Structural changes in the master bedroom included eliminating a closest to widen the room, and reconfiguring a bathroom to fit a small walk-in closet in lieu of a long, thin hallway. The formerly unfinished rooftop deck is now accessed via a six-foot door that opens more than 90 degrees. Azek decking was laid over the rubber roof, and two-inch stanchions were located around the rail’s outer edge. By opening the floor plan and streamlining the aesthetic, the place now breathes.

Our clients had just recently closed on their new house in Stapleton and were excited to transform it into their perfect forever home. They wanted to remodel the entire first floor to create a more open floor plan and develop a smoother flow through the house that better fit the needs of their family. The original layout consisted of several small rooms that just weren’t very functional, so we decided to remove the walls that were breaking up the space and restructure the first floor to create a wonderfully open feel. After removing the existing walls, we rearranged their spaces to give them an office at the front of the house, a large living room, and a large dining room that connects seamlessly with the kitchen. We also wanted to center the foyer in the home and allow more light to travel through the first floor, so we replaced their existing doors with beautiful custom sliding doors to the back yard and a gorgeous walnut door with side lights to greet guests at the front of their home. Living Room Our clients wanted a living room that could accommodate an inviting sectional, a baby grand piano, and plenty of space for family game nights. So, we transformed what had been a small office and sitting room into a large open living room with custom wood columns. We wanted to avoid making the home feel too vast and monumental, so we designed custom beams and columns to define spaces and to make the house feel like a home. Aesthetically we wanted their home to be soft and inviting, so we utilized a neutral color palette with occasional accents of muted blues and greens. Dining Room Our clients were also looking for a large dining room that was open to the rest of the home and perfect for big family gatherings. So, we removed what had been a small family room and eat-in dining area to create a spacious dining room with a fireplace and bar. We added custom cabinetry to the bar area with open shelving for displaying and designed a custom surround for their fireplace that ties in with the wood work we designed for their living room. We brought in the tones and materiality from the kitchen to unite the spaces and added a mixed metal light fixture to bring the space together Kitchen We wanted the kitchen to be a real show stopper and carry through the calm muted tones we were utilizing throughout their home. We reoriented the kitchen to allow for a big beautiful custom island and to give us the opportunity for a focal wall with cooktop and range hood. Their custom island was perfectly complimented with a dramatic quartz counter top and oversized pendants making it the real center of their home. Since they enter the kitchen first when coming from their detached garage, we included a small mud-room area right by the back door to catch everyone’s coats and shoes as they come in. We also created a new walk-in pantry with plenty of open storage and a fun chalkboard door for writing notes, recipes, and grocery lists. Office We transformed the original dining room into a handsome office at the front of the house. We designed custom walnut built-ins to house all of their books, and added glass french doors to give them a bit of privacy without making the space too closed off. We painted the room a deep muted blue to create a glimpse of rich color through the french doors Powder Room The powder room is a wonderful play on textures. We used a neutral palette with contrasting tones to create dramatic moments in this little space with accents of brushed gold. Master Bathroom The existing master bathroom had an awkward layout and outdated finishes, so we redesigned the space to create a clean layout with a dream worthy shower. We continued to use neutral tones that tie in with the rest of the home, but had fun playing with tile textures and patterns to create an eye-catching vanity. The wood-look tile planks along the floor provide a soft backdrop for their new free-standing bathtub and contrast beautifully with the deep ash finish on the cabinetry.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall. The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home. Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup! One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space. The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back. We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed. Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it! We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake! Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs. We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together. We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown. Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility. The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels. The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy. This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com