Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners came to us looking to update the kitchen in their historic 1897 home. The home had gone through an extensive renovation several years earlier that added a master bedroom suite and updates to the front façade. The kitchen however was not part of that update and a prior 1990’s update had left much to be desired. The client is an avid cook, and it was just not very functional for the family. The original kitchen was very choppy and included a large eat in area that took up more than its fair share of the space. On the wish list was a place where the family could comfortably congregate, that was easy and to cook in, that feels lived in and in check with the rest of the home’s décor. They also wanted a space that was not cluttered and dark – a happy, light and airy room. A small powder room off the space also needed some attention so we set out to include that in the remodel as well. See that arch in the neighboring dining room? The homeowner really wanted to make the opening to the dining room an arch to match, so we incorporated that into the design. Another unfortunate eyesore was the state of the ceiling and soffits. Turns out it was just a series of shortcuts from the prior renovation, and we were surprised and delighted that we were easily able to flatten out almost the entire ceiling with a couple of little reworks. Other changes we made were to add new windows that were appropriate to the new design, which included moving the sink window over slightly to give the work zone more breathing room. We also adjusted the height of the windows in what was previously the eat-in area that were too low for a countertop to work. We tried to keep an old island in the plan since it was a well-loved vintage find, but the tradeoff for the function of the new island was not worth it in the end. We hope the old found a new home, perhaps as a potting table. 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

Discover this charming rustic kitchen with exposed wooden beams, mint green cabinetry, and a spacious kitchen island. Featuring brass hardware and a dark stone countertop, this kitchen blends traditional charm with modern functionality

Simple and functional kitchen layout.
Mid-sized transitional galley dark wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in St Louis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a peninsula and multicolored countertops

Old farmhouses offer charm and character but usually need some careful changes to efficiently serve the needs of today’s families. This blended family of four desperately desired a master bath and walk-in closet in keeping with the exceptional features of the home. At the top of the list were a large shower, double vanity, and a private toilet area. They also requested additional storage for bathroom items. Windows, doorways could not be relocated, but certain nonloadbearing walls could be removed. Gorgeous antique flooring had to be patched where walls were removed without being noticeable. Original interior doors and woodwork were restored. Deep window sills give hints to the thick stone exterior walls. A local reproduction furniture maker with national accolades was the perfect choice for the cabinetry which was hand planed and hand finished the way furniture was built long ago. Even the wood tops on the beautiful dresser and bench were rich with dimension from these techniques. The legs on the double vanity were hand turned by Amish woodworkers to add to the farmhouse flair. Marble tops and tile as well as antique style fixtures were chosen to complement the classic look of everything else in the room. It was important to choose contractors and installers experienced in historic remodeling as the old systems had to be carefully updated. Every item on the wish list was achieved in this project from functional storage and a private water closet to every aesthetic detail desired. If only the farmers who originally inhabited this home could see it now! Matt Villano Photography

Bigger is not always better, but something of highest quality is. This amazing, size-appropriate Lake Michigan cottage is just that. Nestled in an existing historic stretch of Lake Michigan cottages, this new construction was built to fit in the neighborhood, but outperform any other home in the area concerning energy consumption, LEED certification and functionality. It features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an open concept kitchen/living room, a separate mudroom entrance and a separate laundry. This small (but smart) cottage is perfect for any family simply seeking a retreat without the stress of a big lake home. The interior details include quartz and granite countertops, stainless appliances, quarter-sawn white oak floors, Pella windows, and beautiful finishing fixtures. The dining area was custom designed, custom built, and features both new and reclaimed elements. The exterior displays Smart-Side siding and trim details and has a large EZE-Breeze screen porch for additional dining and lounging. This home owns all the best products and features of a beach house, with no wasted space. Cottage Home is the premiere builder on the shore of Lake Michigan, between the Indiana border and Holland.

Inspiration for a craftsman enclosed living room remodel in Detroit with a standard fireplace and a tile fireplace

This historic 1938 SW Portland home is a beautiful home that just needed an update to this small bathroom. We kept the historic and traditional look yet added function and fun colorful tile and wallpaper. It functions so much better yet none of the walls were moved. The client loves the result. What a fun project.

Low flat ceilings in the kitchen and entry area were hiding the uniqueness of this historic 1850’s Concord farmhouse. The dated wing was gutted, existing timber frames exposed and a chimney was removed to make way for a more functional kitchen and eating area. Framed inset red birch cabinets are paired with soap stone counters and an apron sink. A painted island with a butcher block top enhances the historic ambiance. A relocated opening to the family room improves the house flow and function. New stairs lead to a future recreation room above the garage. A new mudroom and half bath sit between the garage and remodeled kitchen.

Renovation of this remarkable 1936 Monte Copper Tudor demonstrates how we sensitively transform historic homes to beautifully perform in contemporary life. The challenge was to connect first floor spaces, including the kitchen; dining room; and a lower family room added in a previous addition. The family room received thoughtful and appropriate detailing along with a graceful and functional two-sided bar element linking it with the kitchen. The kitchen was expanded and reimagined with a seamless addition. Diagonal views and openings allow all the rooms to function as a connected whole.

Large trendy l-shaped dark wood floor, brown floor and vaulted ceiling eat-in kitchen photo in Little Rock with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

Simulated double hung windows bring tilt turn function.
Example of a mid-sized classic light wood floor and beige floor multiuse home gym design in New York with white walls

The homeowner's goal was to design a kitchen that seamlessly blended modern functionality with the historical charm of the home. The kitchen features a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication. The space boasts warm wood tones, brass accents, and a professional-grade, creating a perfect blend of function and style.

Low flat ceilings in the kitchen and entry area were hiding the uniqueness of this historic 1850’s Concord farmhouse. The dated wing was gutted, existing timber frames exposed and a chimney was removed to make way for a more functional kitchen and eating area. Framed inset red birch cabinets are paired with soap stone counters and an apron sink. A painted island with a butcher block top enhances the historic ambiance. A relocated opening to the family room improves the house flow and function. New stairs lead to a future recreation room above the garage. A new mudroom and half bath sit between the garage and remodeled kitchen.

The Historic Home lies at the heart of Michael Carter’s passion for interior design. Well versed in the academics of period architecture and antiques, Carter continues to be called on to bring fresh and inspiring ideas to historic properties that are undergoing restoration or redecoration. It is never the goal to have these homes feel like museums. Instead, Carter & Company strives to blend the function of contemporary life with design ideas that are appropriate – they respect the past in a way that is stylish, timeless and elegant.

Farmhouse dark wood floor and brown floor living room photo in Seattle with white walls, a standard fireplace and a brick fireplace

David Duncan Livingston
Small transitional powder room photo in San Francisco with a two-piece toilet and gray walls

This whole house remodel with a top floor addition was designed by and built for the architect owner. Existing historic trim details were preserved and extended throughout the house while modern amenities of the kitchen and bath afford the house great functionality. Built in 1912, the home was expanded to 3200 SF from the original 2400 SF with a third story addition containing a guest room artist studio and bathroom.

Upper level addition of master suite. Modern layout and functionality while blending effortlessly with original elements of this historic home. Designed and built by Giraffe Design Build

DC HISTORIC HOME RENOVATION Located in the historic Cleveland Park neighborhood in Washington, DC, this 1905 Dutch Colonial Revival underwent a whole house renovation to update it for modern life. The new mudroom and kitchen addition opens up the floor plan to create light-filled spaces that feel informal and functional. A neutral interior envelope was created to celebrate a large collection of art and furnishings. Photo Credit: Gordon Beall Photography