Inspiration for a mid-sized rustic walk-out home design remodel with beige walls, a standard fireplace and a stone fireplace

Coral Honeysuckle flowers at Turkey Hill Brook Farm, Spencer MA. Photo copyright Ellen Sousa/THB Farm

Designed by Bilotta’s Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors, this traditional two-toned kitchen features Rutt Handcrafted Cabinetry in a warm mix of Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White paint and cherry with a stain. The expansive space is perfect for a large family that hosts a great deal of guests. The 15’ wide sink wall features a 36” wide farm house sink situated in front of a large window, offering plenty of light, and is flanked by a double pull-out trash and “knock-to-open” Miele dishwasher. At the opposite end of the room a banquette sits in front of another sunny window and comfortably seats eight people. In between the sink wall and banquette sits a 9’ long island which seats another four people and houses both a second dishwasher and a hidden charging station for phones and computers. The countertops on both the island and perimeter are polished Biano Rhino Marble and the backsplash is a handmade subway tile from Southampton Masonry. The flooring, also from Southampton Masonry, is a Silver Travertine – coupled with all of the other finishes the room gives off a serene, coastal feeling. The hardware, in a polished chrome finish, is from Cliffside; the sink and faucet from Rohl. The dining table, seating and decorative lighting is all from Samantha Drew Interiors in East Setauket, NY. The appliances, most of which are fully integrated with custom wood panels (including the 72” worth of refrigeration!), are by Viking, except for the custom metal hood. The window treatments, which are operated electronically for easy opening and closing, are also by Samantha Drew Interiors using Romo Fabrics. Bilotta Designer:Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

Designed by Bilotta’s Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors, this traditional two-toned kitchen features Rutt Handcrafted Cabinetry in a warm mix of Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White paint and cherry with a stain. The expansive space is perfect for a large family that hosts a great deal of guests. The 15’ wide sink wall features a 36” wide farm house sink situated in front of a large window, offering plenty of light, and is flanked by a double pull-out trash and “knock-to-open” Miele dishwasher. At the opposite end of the room a banquette sits in front of another sunny window and comfortably seats eight people. In between the sink wall and banquette sits a 9’ long island which seats another four people and houses both a second dishwasher and a hidden charging station for phones and computers. The countertops on both the island and perimeter are polished Biano Rhino Marble and the backsplash is a handmade subway tile from Southampton Masonry. The flooring, also from Southampton Masonry, is a Silver Travertine – coupled with all of the other finishes the room gives off a serene, coastal feeling. The hardware, in a polished chrome finish, is from Cliffside; the sink and faucet from Rohl. The dining table, seating and decorative lighting is all from Samantha Drew Interiors in East Setauket, NY. The appliances, most of which are fully integrated with custom wood panels (including the 72” worth of refrigeration!), are by Viking, except for the custom metal hood. The window treatments, which are operated electronically for easy opening and closing, are also by Samantha Drew Interiors using Romo Fabrics. Bilotta Designer:Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.

Designed by Bilotta’s Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors, this traditional two-toned kitchen features Rutt Handcrafted Cabinetry in a warm mix of Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White paint and cherry with a stain. The expansive space is perfect for a large family that hosts a great deal of guests. The 15’ wide sink wall features a 36” wide farm house sink situated in front of a large window, offering plenty of light, and is flanked by a double pull-out trash and “knock-to-open” Miele dishwasher. At the opposite end of the room a banquette sits in front of another sunny window and comfortably seats eight people. In between the sink wall and banquette sits a 9’ long island which seats another four people and houses both a second dishwasher and a hidden charging station for phones and computers. The countertops on both the island and perimeter are polished Biano Rhino Marble and the backsplash is a handmade subway tile from Southampton Masonry. The flooring, also from Southampton Masonry, is a Silver Travertine – coupled with all of the other finishes the room gives off a serene, coastal feeling. The hardware, in a polished chrome finish, is from Cliffside; the sink and faucet from Rohl. The dining table, seating and decorative lighting is all from Samantha Drew Interiors in East Setauket, NY. The appliances, most of which are fully integrated with custom wood panels (including the 72” worth of refrigeration!), are by Viking, except for the custom metal hood. The window treatments, which are operated electronically for easy opening and closing, are also by Samantha Drew Interiors using Romo Fabrics. Bilotta Designer:Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective. This was the case for FGA’s Atherton clients, empty-nesters, who were eager to reimagine their home of many years as they embarked on their next chapter: hosting grandchildren. To start, FGA kept a few outer walls to preserve the home's more expansive footprint, while opening up and reimagining the layout. The new home with a grand entry hall is oriented to highlight the long garden view. Stylistically, the goal was to lend the new home an older aesthetic that suited the surrounding neighborhood - a home that “felt like the oldest house on the block,” in the words of the client. The structure also recalls the iconic style of Bernard Maybeck who designed the husband’s childhood home. FGA studied Maybeck’s methods for intricately layering rafters, outriggers, and brackets to create a sense of familiarity and ruggedness, but modified elements to feel modern and refined. The heavy timber was specially sourced, carefully measured, cut and numbered offsite, and then meticulously reassembled on the premises. The earthy exteriors with bright cedar shingles, deep dark green trim, and textured red brick are balanced with a crisp interior palette. White cerused oak, mustard yellow library-dining millwork, a black marble bar, and copper hardware details are playfully contemporary. Recalling the exterior masonry, a handsome brick fireplace anchors the generous living room and neighboring office. From the living, dining, and kitchen, tall steel and glass French doors open onto a deep porch for easy entertaining and breezy backyard views.

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures.

Our mission was to completely update and transform their huge house into a cozy, welcoming and warm home of their own. “When we moved in, it was such a novelty to live in a proper house. But it still felt like the in-law’s home,” our clients told us. “Our dream was to make it feel like our home.” Our transformation skills were put to the test when we created the host-worthy kitchen space (complete with a barista bar!) that would double as the heart of their home and a place to make memories with their friends and family. We upgraded and updated their dark and uninviting family room with fresh furnishings, flooring and lighting and turned those beautiful exposed beams into a feature point of the space. The end result was a flow of modern, welcoming and authentic spaces that finally felt like home. And, yep … the invite was officially sent out! Our clients had an eclectic style rich in history, culture and a lifetime of adventures. We wanted to highlight these stories in their home and give their memorabilia places to be seen and appreciated. The at-home office was crafted to blend subtle elegance with a calming, casual atmosphere that would make it easy for our clients to enjoy spending time in the space (without it feeling like they were working!) We carefully selected a pop of color as the feature wall in the primary suite and installed a gorgeous shiplap ledge wall for our clients to display their meaningful art and memorabilia. Then, we carried the theme all the way into the ensuite to create a retreat that felt complete.

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.

Our mission was to completely update and transform their huge house into a cozy, welcoming and warm home of their own. “When we moved in, it was such a novelty to live in a proper house. But it still felt like the in-law’s home,” our clients told us. “Our dream was to make it feel like our home.” Our transformation skills were put to the test when we created the host-worthy kitchen space (complete with a barista bar!) that would double as the heart of their home and a place to make memories with their friends and family. We upgraded and updated their dark and uninviting family room with fresh furnishings, flooring and lighting and turned those beautiful exposed beams into a feature point of the space. The end result was a flow of modern, welcoming and authentic spaces that finally felt like home. And, yep … the invite was officially sent out! Our clients had an eclectic style rich in history, culture and a lifetime of adventures. We wanted to highlight these stories in their home and give their memorabilia places to be seen and appreciated. The at-home office was crafted to blend subtle elegance with a calming, casual atmosphere that would make it easy for our clients to enjoy spending time in the space (without it feeling like they were working!) We carefully selected a pop of color as the feature wall in the primary suite and installed a gorgeous shiplap ledge wall for our clients to display their meaningful art and memorabilia. Then, we carried the theme all the way into the ensuite to create a retreat that felt complete.

The main goal to reawaken the beauty of this outdated kitchen was to create more storage and make it a more functional space. This husband and wife love to host their large extended family of kids and grandkids. The JRP design team tweaked the floor plan by reducing the size of an unnecessarily large powder bath. Since storage was key this allowed us to turn a small pantry closet into a larger walk-in pantry. Keeping with the Mediterranean style of the house but adding a contemporary flair, the design features two-tone cabinets. Walnut island and base cabinets mixed with off white full height and uppers create a warm, welcoming environment. With the removal of the dated soffit, the cabinets were extended to the ceiling. This allowed for a second row of upper cabinets featuring a walnut interior and lighting for display. Choosing the right countertop and backsplash such as this marble-like quartz and arabesque tile is key to tying this whole look together. The new pantry layout features crisp off-white open shelving with a contrasting walnut base cabinet. The combined open shelving and specialty drawers offer greater storage while at the same time being visually appealing. The hood with its dark metal finish accented with antique brass is the focal point. It anchors the room above a new 60” Wolf range providing ample space to cook large family meals. The massive island features storage on all sides and seating on two for easy conversation making this kitchen the true hub of the home.

Designed by Bilotta’s Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors, this traditional two-toned kitchen features Rutt Handcrafted Cabinetry in a warm mix of Benjamin Moore’s Cloud White paint and cherry with a stain. The expansive space is perfect for a large family that hosts a great deal of guests. The 15’ wide sink wall features a 36” wide farm house sink situated in front of a large window, offering plenty of light, and is flanked by a double pull-out trash and “knock-to-open” Miele dishwasher. At the opposite end of the room a banquette sits in front of another sunny window and comfortably seats eight people. In between the sink wall and banquette sits a 9’ long island which seats another four people and houses both a second dishwasher and a hidden charging station for phones and computers. The countertops on both the island and perimeter are polished Biano Rhino Marble and the backsplash is a handmade subway tile from Southampton Masonry. The flooring, also from Southampton Masonry, is a Silver Travertine – coupled with all of the other finishes the room gives off a serene, coastal feeling. The hardware, in a polished chrome finish, is from Cliffside; the sink and faucet from Rohl. The dining table, seating and decorative lighting is all from Samantha Drew Interiors in East Setauket, NY. The appliances, most of which are fully integrated with custom wood panels (including the 72” worth of refrigeration!), are by Viking, except for the custom metal hood. The window treatments, which are operated electronically for easy opening and closing, are also by Samantha Drew Interiors using Romo Fabrics. Bilotta Designer:Tom Vecchio with Samantha Drew Interiors Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

Our mission was to completely update and transform their huge house into a cozy, welcoming and warm home of their own. “When we moved in, it was such a novelty to live in a proper house. But it still felt like the in-law’s home,” our clients told us. “Our dream was to make it feel like our home.” Our transformation skills were put to the test when we created the host-worthy kitchen space (complete with a barista bar!) that would double as the heart of their home and a place to make memories with their friends and family. We upgraded and updated their dark and uninviting family room with fresh furnishings, flooring and lighting and turned those beautiful exposed beams into a feature point of the space. The end result was a flow of modern, welcoming and authentic spaces that finally felt like home. And, yep … the invite was officially sent out! Our clients had an eclectic style rich in history, culture and a lifetime of adventures. We wanted to highlight these stories in their home and give their memorabilia places to be seen and appreciated. The at-home office was crafted to blend subtle elegance with a calming, casual atmosphere that would make it easy for our clients to enjoy spending time in the space (without it feeling like they were working!) We carefully selected a pop of color as the feature wall in the primary suite and installed a gorgeous shiplap ledge wall for our clients to display their meaningful art and memorabilia. Then, we carried the theme all the way into the ensuite to create a retreat that felt complete.

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures. Custom built ins in adjacent seating/lounge area to mirror and match the existing arches in a rift cut oak finish.

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.