Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

This white kitchen remodel in Irvine designed and built by Sea Pointe Construction features beautiful sleek quartz countertops that mimic marble design and complementing marble backsplash tile.

High color blocked ceiling elements and crisp white lacquer kitchen are warmed up and grounded with the custom finish wood floors.
Trendy dark wood floor great room photo in New York with gray walls

Audrey Hall
Example of a trendy bathroom design in Other

Family room library - rustic light wood floor family room library idea in Burlington with white walls

Living room - contemporary living room idea in Dallas

Our goal on this project was to create a live-able and open feeling space in a 690 square foot modern farmhouse. We planned for an open feeling space by installing tall windows and doors, utilizing pocket doors and building a vaulted ceiling. An efficient layout with hidden kitchen appliances and a concealed laundry space, built in tv and work desk, carefully selected furniture pieces and a bright and white colour palette combine to make this tiny house feel like a home. We achieved our goal of building a functionally beautiful space where we comfortably host a few friends and spend time together as a family. John McManus

Kitchen/dining room combo - mid-sized contemporary dark wood floor kitchen/dining room combo idea in Los Angeles with white walls, a standard fireplace and a tile fireplace

Photo: Carolyn Reyes © 2015 Houzz
Living room - eclectic living room idea in Los Angeles

Example of a large trendy l-shaped porcelain tile and white floor eat-in kitchen design in Seattle with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, marble countertops, gray backsplash, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops

Architect: Blaine Bonadies, Bonadies Architect Photography By: Jean Allsopp Photography “Just as described, there is an edgy, irreverent vibe here, but the result has an appropriate stature and seriousness. Love the overscale windows. And the outdoor spaces are so great.” Situated atop an old Civil War battle site, this new residence was conceived for a couple with southern values and a rock-and-roll attitude. The project consists of a house, a pool with a pool house and a renovated music studio. A marriage of modern and traditional design, this project used a combination of California redwood siding, stone and a slate roof with flat-seam lead overhangs. Intimate and well planned, there is no space wasted in this home. The execution of the detail work, such as handmade railings, metal awnings and custom windows jambs, made this project mesmerizing. Cues from the client and how they use their space helped inspire and develop the initial floor plan, making it live at a human scale but with dramatic elements. Their varying taste then inspired the theme of traditional with an edge. The lines and rhythm of the house were simplified, and then complemented with some key details that made the house a juxtaposition of styles. The wood Ultimate Casement windows were all standard sizes. However, there was a desire to make the windows have a “deep pocket” look to create a break in the facade and add a dramatic shadow line. Marvin was able to customize the jambs by extruding them to the exterior. They added a very thin exterior profile, which negated the need for exterior casing. The same detail was in the stone veneers and walls, as well as the horizontal siding walls, with no need for any modification. This resulted in a very sleek look. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Ultimate Casement Window

A library ladder is a charming, unexpected addition to a kitchen, but totally functional for accessing storage.
Huge cottage l-shaped dark wood floor kitchen photo in Milwaukee with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, wood countertops, gray backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

Located in the charming High Pines neighborhood, this project was born out of necessity and vision. The homeowners—a couple with three young daughters—had outgrown their dated home but found that the cost and compromises of buying a new property in Miami simply didn’t make sense. Instead, they chose to invest in a full-scale renovation, tailored to enhance their lifestyle, maximize space, and modernize every corner of their home. The transformation included opening up the kitchen to create more connected living spaces, enclosing a discreet laundry room, remodeling all bedrooms and bathrooms, creating a resort-style outdoor retreat with a new pool, patio, and outdoor kitchen, and building an 800-square-foot master suite addition. The result is a cohesive, family-friendly design that balances style, comfort, and function. Main Living Areas At the heart of the home, the kitchen showcases custom Shaker-style cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and a spacious central island designed for entertaining. Pendant lights above the island add warmth and character, while linear diffusers subtly enhance airflow. Custom refrigerator panels create a cohesive, high-end aesthetic, all set atop durable wood-look porcelain tile flooring that extends throughout the living spaces. Flowing effortlessly into the living room, the open-concept design promotes comfort and sophistication. Recessed and linear LED lighting highlight a striking tropical wood feature wall, while a wood slat divider adds architectural interest and provides subtle separation without sacrificing openness. Hidden within this feature wall is a discreet door leading to a new, efficiently designed laundry room. Master Suite Addition A major highlight of the renovation is the luxurious 800-square-foot master suite addition, a serene retreat offering privacy and indulgence. The master bedroom features linear LED lights, elegant pendant lighting, and a space-saving pocket door that enhances flow. The adjoining master bathroom evokes a spa-like atmosphere, with a massive shower and built-in steam room as the centerpiece. A bold black-and-white geometric tile pattern brings striking visual contrast, complemented by globe-style light fixtures, a sleek vanity, dark wood cabinetry, and soft-toned hexagon tile flooring. A custom walk-in closet with tailored cabinetry completes the suite with a blend of organization and luxury. Outdoor Living The outdoor space was completely reimagined to function as an extension of the home—ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. The redesigned pool features a modern aesthetic with a party bench and sun shelf. The patio ceiling is finished in Thermo Wood Ayous for a warm, natural feel, while the gourmet outdoor kitchen boasts porcelain countertops, dark blue cabinetry with stainless steel hardware, and a high-end stainless steel grill. Additional Spaces Throughout the home, the existing bedrooms and bathrooms were fully renovated to meet the needs of the growing family. Custom mahogany and painted Shaker-style vanities, porcelain tile, glass shower enclosures, new doors, flooring, and upgraded closet systems bring functionality and design into every corner. Curb Appeal The renovation begins at the front door with a striking modern tropical wood entry, porcelain tile pathway, and a stucco clapboard façade. Rich Thermo Wood Ayous soffits add depth and warmth to the exterior, creating a welcoming and cohesive aesthetic that hints at the thoughtful transformation within.

Joe Fletcher Photography
Inspiration for a transitional entryway remodel in San Francisco

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living. Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected. Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives. We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings. Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed. Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home. The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply. What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful. Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces. To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next. The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living. Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected. Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives. We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings. Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed. Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home. The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply. What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful. Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces. To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next. The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living. Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected. Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives. We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings. Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed. Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home. The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply. What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful. Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces. To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next. The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living. Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected. Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives. We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings. Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed. Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home. The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply. What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful. Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces. To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next. The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.