The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

This 1962 Mid Century Lakewood house was remodeled to update the functionality of the home while staying true to the original style. Opening up the floor plan and capturing natural light in the home where some of the key design elements we address. we incorporated modern materials often found in Mid Century these include Natural Stone, Wood, Steel, and a minimal color pallet. Updating appliances and mechanical systems helped make the home more efficient and convenient for our client.

Corri Sandwick Architecture Location: Bellaire, MI, USA Sitting on the banks of the Intermediate River, this house is designed to be a Green Star Silver retreat. Integrating and expanding on the expression of the original modern house and inspired by Joseph Eichler, this house incorporates simple lines, and clean details. With the goal of going to net-zero in a few years, the house is well air-sealed and insulated to reduce energy consumption as a first step in achieving the goal. Using the Green Star program helped to guide the design and construction team to achieve a home that addresses sustainability in all aspects. Photographed by: Endura Homes

South Puget Sound: Build on Your Own Lot Full service turn key start to finish builder. We provide the financing, help you secure the land, develop your property, design and build your home, and give you the keys! DCS strives to ensure our customer's dreams become reality with integrity, imagination, and innovation from start to finish. At DCS Built located in Tacoma, Washington, our design and build team approach gives our clients a unique experience that ensures a successful project delivery. As licensed contractors and designers working together, we are able to focus on quality and design from the start of your project over low-bid construction. Why Design Build? Our capable creative team of professionals is working together with your best interests in mind through all phases of the Pacific Northwest (PNW) project. Our Service Area includes Puget Sound, North Pierce County and South King County. Note: The community dot reflects the builder's design center, sales center or other physical business address. The builder's plans reflect the price of the home itself and does not include the property. You are responsible for providing the property on which these plans will be built. custombuild, piercecounty, design, remodel, building, architecture, build, projectdelivery, customhomes, custombuilt, mortgage, refinance, newhome, newhouse, selling, finance, property, forsale, generalcontractor, gc, contractor, washington, piercecounty, pugetsound, tacoma, auburn, gigharbor, dupont, bonneylake, puyallup, lakewood, olympia, buildonyourlot

The owners of this lovely 1960s ranch home were over living with an out of date and awkward kitchen, so they enlisted our help to bring their dream kitchen to life. Right off the bat we all agreed that is was best to keep with the era of the home with a sleek modern kitchen featuring slab door cabinets. Our clients also wanted to space to feel brighter and more spacious with room for entertaining friends and family. So we knocked down a wall, filled in an unused door, and shortened a window so we could wrap this kitchen and create an optimal working triangle. We selected a maple cabinet with a medium-light stain, a light neutral porcelain floor tile, bright white glass backsplash with a mid-mod feature tile, and a variety of lighting. To create a space perfect for entertaining, we added a small peninsula for barstool seating. Behind the cabinet doors and drawers are many storage features including a double bin pull-out trash can, full access roll-out trays, pull out base cabinet pantry, super-susan corner cabinet, a wall cabinet for the microwave, and a pantry/fridge enclosure with roll-out trays. The sunroom received a facelift that covered the exterior brick to hide the modifications of walling up a door and raising the window sill height. It also created the sense that this space is an extension of the home, not just an exterior sunroom. We addressed the awkward step into the sunroom and installed new tile flooring. We finished the space of with a warm gray paint and soft sheers. This was such a fun and exciting project!! Cheers to our lovely clients and their gorgeous new kitchen and sunroom.

"I wanted to say a big thank you for all your recent help before, during and following the installation of our new kitchen. All the dates, you scheduled in, were adhered to and you made sure that any small issues we had, were addressed promptly. Our new kitchen really is life changing. Most important of all, we are very happy with the results. Great work Erica. We would have no hesitation in recommending you and the team at RFK in the future." VANESSA & MARK

The owners of this lovely 1960s ranch home were over living with an out of date and awkward kitchen, so they enlisted our help to bring their dream kitchen to life. Right off the bat we all agreed that is was best to keep with the era of the home with a sleek modern kitchen featuring slab door cabinets. Our clients also wanted to space to feel brighter and more spacious with room for entertaining friends and family. So we knocked down a wall, filled in an unused door, and shortened a window so we could wrap this kitchen and create an optimal working triangle. We selected a maple cabinet with a medium-light stain, a light neutral porcelain floor tile, bright white glass backsplash with a mid-mod feature tile, and a variety of lighting. To create a space perfect for entertaining, we added a small peninsula for barstool seating. Behind the cabinet doors and drawers are many storage features including a double bin pull-out trash can, full access roll-out trays, pull out base cabinet pantry, super-susan corner cabinet, a wall cabinet for the microwave, and a pantry/fridge enclosure with roll-out trays. The sunroom received a facelift that covered the exterior brick to hide the modifications of walling up a door and raising the window sill height. It also created the sense that this space is an extension of the home, not just an exterior sunroom. We addressed the awkward step into the sunroom and installed new tile flooring. We finished the space of with a warm gray paint and soft sheers. This was such a fun and exciting project!! Cheers to our lovely clients and their gorgeous new kitchen and sunroom.

This backyard and pool remodeling project involved a complete transformation of the outdoor space into a sophisticated and functional retreat. The swimming pool was entirely resurfaced with a fresh plaster finish, restoring its vibrant color and smooth texture while improving durability. The pool’s edges were upgraded with elegant bullnose concrete paver coping, providing a rounded, polished finish that blends safety with visual appeal. Surrounding the pool, new concrete paver decking was installed in a clean, modern layout that enhances foot traction and complements the overall hardscape design. To address the natural slope of the yard, a dramatic three-tier terrace system was constructed using retaining walls. These terraced levels not only provide structural support but also create defined spaces for planting, seating, and movement. Integrated into the landscape are custom-poured concrete benches, offering permanent, low-maintenance seating areas that match the texture and tone of the surrounding pavers and walls. An outdoor kitchen was added to maximize the yard’s entertaining potential. Designed for both form and function, it includes built-in appliances and storage framed in matching stone finishes. Above the kitchen, an Alumawood lattice patio cover offers partial shade and a refined architectural touch, combining the appearance of wood with the durability of aluminum. The open lattice design allows dappled sunlight while helping to define the cooking and dining area. Perimeter enhancements include the installation of decorative wrought iron fencing and a matching gate, adding both security and style to the space. Finally, low-voltage landscape lighting was strategically placed throughout the yard, accenting key features such as the retaining walls, benches, and pathways. These subtle lights not only highlight the beauty of the hardscape at night but also provide added safety and usability after dark. This remodel successfully blends structure, comfort, and aesthetics to create a multi-functional backyard environment ideal for relaxation and entertaining.

An example of the intimate dining room table setting using one of the custom dining room tables. Seen behind is the custom built in storage to help maximize all the space available for the client and addressing their need for storage and a clean contemporary look.

This backyard and pool remodeling project involved a complete transformation of the outdoor space into a sophisticated and functional retreat. The swimming pool was entirely resurfaced with a fresh plaster finish, restoring its vibrant color and smooth texture while improving durability. The pool’s edges were upgraded with elegant bullnose concrete paver coping, providing a rounded, polished finish that blends safety with visual appeal. Surrounding the pool, new concrete paver decking was installed in a clean, modern layout that enhances foot traction and complements the overall hardscape design. To address the natural slope of the yard, a dramatic three-tier terrace system was constructed using retaining walls. These terraced levels not only provide structural support but also create defined spaces for planting, seating, and movement. Integrated into the landscape are custom-poured concrete benches, offering permanent, low-maintenance seating areas that match the texture and tone of the surrounding pavers and walls. An outdoor kitchen was added to maximize the yard’s entertaining potential. Designed for both form and function, it includes built-in appliances and storage framed in matching stone finishes. Above the kitchen, an Alumawood lattice patio cover offers partial shade and a refined architectural touch, combining the appearance of wood with the durability of aluminum. The open lattice design allows dappled sunlight while helping to define the cooking and dining area. Perimeter enhancements include the installation of decorative wrought iron fencing and a matching gate, adding both security and style to the space. Finally, low-voltage landscape lighting was strategically placed throughout the yard, accenting key features such as the retaining walls, benches, and pathways. These subtle lights not only highlight the beauty of the hardscape at night but also provide added safety and usability after dark. This remodel successfully blends structure, comfort, and aesthetics to create a multi-functional backyard environment ideal for relaxation and entertaining.

These homeowners came to Castle looking for a solution that would allow them to stay in their 1946 stucco bungalow in the St. Paul neighborhood that they loved. What was once a young couple’s starter home (1 ½ story with two bedrooms on the main floor and a tiny attic space) was no longer big enough after having two kids. The need for more room became the family’s highest priority, so they came to Castle for help creating the space they needed for their growing family. With very little headroom in the attic, the decision was made to tear off the roof and add a completely new 2nd story addition with three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a commons area. The stairway to the new 2nd-floor space needed to be rebuilt to comply with code requirements and was extended slightly into the dining room below. The new 2nd story addition gave the homeowners an opportunity to revise the exterior look of the home with vertical board and batten siding above the 1st-floor stucco. A new front entry portico was added to compliment the addition, and the existing masonry chimney was extended above the new roof line. The homeowners took over the work on the project after drywall was installed and did all the interior trim & millwork, tile, flooring, and painting & staining themselves. They’re loving the results! Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

For many residents in Continuing Care facilities like The Covington, a visit to the beauty salon is a highlight of the week. Creating a fresh, welcoming environment with great finishes, excellent lighting & a spa like feel create a welcoming environment to help make the experience positive, fun & pleasant.

Steve Norman Photography
Living room - traditional living room idea in Charlotte

As with many residents of the Armitage neighborhood in South Minneapolis, the owners of this 1940-built Tudor home love where they live. So much so, they were willing to commit to a large, whole-house remodel in order to stay put. Castle worked diligently with these homeowners to help them realize their ultimate goals for their home. By redesigning the first-floor layout, Castle was able to create a much more open space. Walls previously separating the kitchen and dining room were removed and replaced with more countertop space in the form of a seated peninsula. The kitchen was also updated with new granite countertops, more backsplash tile to match the existing, and partial new cabinetry by The Woodshop of Avon to match existing. New hardwood flooring was installed in the kitchen to match the existing dining room. The size of the dining room was then almost doubled by removing an adjacent first-floor bedroom. A new sunroom was added in the back which opened the space even further. Dixie Caress carpet in the color “Wisteria” was chosen for the sunroom and throughout the 2nd floor. The 2nd floor was given a total makeover with a large dormer addition and a master bedroom suite above the new sunroom. Corbels decorate the exterior while giving support to the overhanging floor of the master bedroom. Now with three bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs, there’s room for everyone, and a wonderful great room on the main floor to go with it. See this project in person on the Castle Home Tour, September 28 – 29th, 2019.

As with many residents of the Armitage neighborhood in South Minneapolis, the owners of this 1940-built Tudor home love where they live. So much so, they were willing to commit to a large, whole-house remodel in order to stay put. Castle worked diligently with these homeowners to help them realize their ultimate goals for their home. By redesigning the first-floor layout, Castle was able to create a much more open space. Walls previously separating the kitchen and dining room were removed and replaced with more countertop space in the form of a seated peninsula. The kitchen was also updated with new granite countertops, more backsplash tile to match the existing, and partial new cabinetry by The Woodshop of Avon to match existing. New hardwood flooring was installed in the kitchen to match the existing dining room. The size of the dining room was then almost doubled by removing an adjacent first-floor bedroom. A new sunroom was added in the back which opened the space even further. Dixie Caress carpet in the color “Wisteria” was chosen for the sunroom and throughout the 2nd floor. The 2nd floor was given a total makeover with a large dormer addition and a master bedroom suite above the new sunroom. Corbels decorate the exterior while giving support to the overhanging floor of the master bedroom. Now with three bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs, there’s room for everyone, and a wonderful great room on the main floor to go with it. See this project in person on the Castle Home Tour, September 28 – 29th, 2019.

As with many residents of the Armitage neighborhood in South Minneapolis, the owners of this 1940-built Tudor home love where they live. So much so, they were willing to commit to a large, whole-house remodel in order to stay put. Castle worked diligently with these homeowners to help them realize their ultimate goals for their home. By redesigning the first-floor layout, Castle was able to create a much more open space. Walls previously separating the kitchen and dining room were removed and replaced with more countertop space in the form of a seated peninsula. The kitchen was also updated with new granite countertops, more backsplash tile to match the existing, and partial new cabinetry by The Woodshop of Avon to match existing. New hardwood flooring was installed in the kitchen to match the existing dining room. The size of the dining room was then almost doubled by removing an adjacent first-floor bedroom. A new sunroom was added in the back which opened the space even further. Dixie Caress carpet in the color “Wisteria” was chosen for the sunroom and throughout the 2nd floor. The 2nd floor was given a total makeover with a large dormer addition and a master bedroom suite above the new sunroom. Corbels decorate the exterior while giving support to the overhanging floor of the master bedroom. Now with three bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs, there’s room for everyone, and a wonderful great room on the main floor to go with it. See this project in person on the Castle Home Tour, September 28 – 29th, 2019.

Katherine Dashiell from Reico Kitchen and Bath in Annapolis, MD, worked with EWF Construction to design a transitional-style inspired kitchen. The kitchen features Masterpiece cabinets in the Martel door style with a Frost finish for the perimeter, and the Mesa door style in Quartersawn Oak with a Wicker finish for the island and tall cabinets. The kitchen also includes quartz countertops and a backsplash, provided by others. The client shared their experience, saying, “My new kitchen is both beautiful and functional. Katherine made sure everything was just right. I love how she addressed the HVAC issue with a space for my dog’s bowl, and made sure my coffee machine would fit perfectly. The pull-out drawer next to the stove for my knife block and utensil container is great. The design makes cooking and cleaning easy, and the colors are serene. Katherine took the time to visit the space to ensure we were on the right track. She really helped bring my vision to life.” Photos courtesy of BTW Images.

"We took bids from seven or eight companies to remodel our kitchen and bathroom. We had a whole list of improvements we wanted, from 'must-haves' to 'might be nice someday'. We selected TaylorPro Home Services for several reasons, but foremost among those reasons was that the owner, Kerry Taylor, provided us with a detailed breakout of labor/material costs for every option. Nearly every other contractor bundled up the costs of our optional tasks into a single number, which made it quite difficult to select the best options based on our priorities and budget. Kerry's highly detailed proposal wasn't the least expensive we received, but it was organized, thorough, and competitive. The second reason we selected TaylorPro was the demeanor and experience of Kerry himself. It was refreshing to talk to someone who actually gets his hands dirty rather than yet another designer with his head in a computer. (God bless the designers, though -- we had helpful conversations with many!) Kerry has a good design aesthetic, make no mistake, but it was clear that when problems inevitably popped up, Kerry would know how to address them. He is calm, personable, and competent. In other words, he is just the sort of person you want to work with. We can't forget to mention the TaylorPro crew. The first thing you notice is how youthful they are. Not a single gray hair among them. Yet after watching them work awhile, you begin to notice how extraordinarily skilful they are. It doesn't matter what is on the day's agenda -- electrical, paint, plumbing, drywall -- these guys tackle it all and do it exceedingly well. They aren't just putting in their time and collecting a check. They take terrific pride in the work they do, a quality that seems more and more difficult to find these days. They are pleasant to be around and I never heard a cross word among them. They took pains to keep the noise and dust to a minimum. They cleaned up at the end of every day, even those days when they put in extra hours and were obviously very tired. This is easily the best work crew we've ever had at our house. We should also mention that the subcontractors that TaylorPro uses are top-notch. The folks who laid down our new tile floor (Jeff) had every bit as much expertise and integrity as TaylorPro. They did an excellent job on both the flooring and the tile backsplash. These two elements receive compliments from everyone who visits our remodeled kitchen. (We wish Jeff would put his company on Angie's List so that we could give him the recognition he deserves!) In addition, the fellows who fabricated our Caesarstone countertop were also great craftsmen. They did a beautiful job. When we noticed a small blemish a few days after the countertop was installed, they came out immediately and corrected the problem. Nice! In summary, TaylorPro has lived up to all the glowing recommendations here on Angie's List. Our experience with TaylorPro is right in line with the others. They stayed on task, they communicated well, they stayed on budget, and they gave us more than we had any right to expect. We don't know a better compliment to give Kerry and company than this: when it comes time to remodel the upstairs bathrooms, we won't need to solicit seven or eight bids. We'll just call TaylorPro. " ~ Lysa & Mark W, Clients Photos by: Kerry W Taylor

Carolina Maholik from Reico Kitchen & Bath in Chantilly, VA, collaborated with Thomas Amooson and Patrick Dennis to design a transitional bathroom remodel featuring Ultracraft Cabinetry. The bathroom cabinets are the Daytona door style in an Urban Grey painted finish. The clients expressed how it was a dream to work with Carolina saying, “she has an exceptional eye for design and helped us through completing three bathroom projects. Not only is Carolina great with design but she also addresses any problems that arise. She clearly puts the customer first.” “The clients were wonderful to work with,” said Carolina. “They both have great design instincts and wanted each room to have a clear design while still matching the character of their home. I truly loved working with them for each bathroom and think each space came together beautifully on their own as well as a cohesive home.” Photo’s courtesy of BTW Images.