KuDa Photography
Trendy laundry room photo in Portland with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets and white walls

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

No inch was waisted in this home to enrich the space with bold colors, patterns, and art. This stunning contemporary hallway makes a grand statement, featuring bold, patterned wallpaper in neutral tones that provide a sophisticated backdrop. A colorful runner rug adds warmth and a pop of vibrant color, drawing the eye down the inviting long space. The chic console table, adorned with a classic bust sculpture, offers a touch of timeless elegance, while a large, abstract art piece injects modern flair and personality. Natural light floods the hallway from a large end window, enhancing the airy feel and highlighting the sleek design elements. Perfect for an entryway or connecting space, this hallway blends contemporary style with artistic touches, creating a truly unique and welcoming atmosphere.

Kara Spelman
Living room - large country open concept dark wood floor and brown floor living room idea in Boston with white walls, a standard fireplace, a wood fireplace surround and a media wall

Discover inspiration for small and narrow bathroom designs with this elegant transitional space featuring a striking black and white basketweave mosaic tile floor. This functional yet stylish bathroom boasts a white subway-tiled shower with luxurious gold fixtures, a sleek white vanity with coordinating gold hardware, and a space-saving toilet, creating a bright and sophisticated aesthetic perfect for modern homes.

The Sonoma Farmhaus project was designed for a cycling enthusiast with a globally demanding professional career, who wanted to create a place that could serve as both a retreat of solitude and a hub for gathering with friends and family. Located within the town of Graton, California, the site was chosen not only to be close to a small town and its community, but also to be within cycling distance to the picturesque, coastal Sonoma County landscape. Taking the traditional forms of farmhouse, and their notions of sustenance and community, as inspiration, the project comprises an assemblage of two forms - a Main House and a Guest House with Bike Barn - joined in the middle by a central outdoor gathering space anchored by a fireplace. The vision was to create something consciously restrained and one with the ground on which it stands. Simplicity, clear detailing, and an innate understanding of how things go together were all central themes behind the design. Solid walls of rammed earth blocks, fabricated from soils excavated from the site, bookend each of the structures. According to the owner, the use of simple, yet rich materials and textures...“provides a humanness I’ve not known or felt in any living venue I’ve stayed, Farmhaus is an icon of sustenance for me".

Elegant master mosaic tile floor corner shower photo in Seattle with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, beige cabinets and beige walls

Dimension: 76" L X 21" D X 83" H The sophisticated charm of our Meriden Mahogany Wood Two-Tone Blue Dining Room Buffet with Hutch is evident at first glance, and its incredible storage is wonderfully apparent with each and every use! Anchor your dining room decor and storage in the heirloom prestige of this solid wood buffet with hutch! This solid mahogany wood hutch supplies relaxed sophistication for creative and easy entertaining with a bevy of cleverly balanced closed and display style storage options. The buffet is outfitted with an impressive collection of cabinet space, featuring four doors with interior shelving. Perched above are three drawers of various sizes to accommodate your linen and silverware storage needs. The hutch is a maestro, showcasing your treasured collections and keepsakes in elegant form with four glass-front display cabinets complete with shelving for an efficient arrangement. It is easy to fall in love with the beauty of this rustic hutch. Handcrafted of solid mahogany wood, the Old World care and attention that went into its creation is evident in its durable dependability and timeless design. The attractive two-tone palette is an appealing mix of natural wood tones paired with a relaxed blue and finished with decorative molding that pulls the look together in sleek form. Special Features: • 100% Handcrafted • Made of solid wood • Glass-front display hutch with interior shelving • Two small drawers • One large drawer • Four cabinets with shelves for enclosed storage Note: Our furniture is made of solid wood (not wood veneer over plywood). It is handcrafted by Master Artisans. Real wood is a product of nature, and as such, no two pieces are alike. Variations in solid wood grain patterns are to be expected and make each furniture uniquely beautiful, just like us humans.

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

Kitchen - traditional u-shaped dark wood floor kitchen idea in San Francisco with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash and subway tile backsplash

Hollywood regency meets beach bungalow in this living room. Natural wood and greenery comes together with gold accents and light neutral tones.
Example of a beach style open concept light wood floor and beige floor living room design in Sacramento with white walls, a standard fireplace and a wood fireplace surround

This photo captures the welcoming entryway of the Renovation/Additions in Northern New Mexico project by Gayla Bechtol Architect: Handcrafted details: The carved wood front door and exposed log columns emphasize craftsmanship rooted in regional traditions. Stone foundation and steps: Locally sourced stone grounds the structure in its landscape, providing both durability and textural richness. Stucco walls with bright accents: The warm adobe-toned plaster contrasts beautifully with the bold blue window trim, adding a touch of vibrancy. Curved portal roofline: The sweeping porch roof softens the geometry and creates an inviting flow, blending protection with elegance. Integration with site: Natural flagstone paving and native plantings transition seamlessly from the home to the garden, reinforcing the home’s dialogue with nature. This entryway embodies the essence of Northern New Mexico architecture—rooted in place, handcrafted, and deeply connected to its environment. Project by Gayla Bechtol

Modern family loft renovation. A young couple starting a family in the city purchased this two story loft in Boston's South End. Built in the 1990's, the loft was ready for updates. ZED transformed the space, creating a fresh new look and greatly increasing its functionality to accommodate an expanding family within an urban setting. Improvement were made to the aesthetics, scale, and functionality for the growing family to enjoy. Photos by Eric Roth. Construction by Ralph S. Osmond Company. Green architecture by ZeroEnergy Design.

Beautiful, Female Client's Home Office covered in her favorite Peonies Wallpaper! This fun and functional Roman Shade designed to filter the light but bring a touch of whimsy with the hot pink pom pom trim. Who wouldn't want to WFH in here?!! Interior Design by Dona Rosene Interiors / Photography by Michael Hunter

A stylish and modern living room featuring a comfortable light grey sectional sofa with chic blue and gold accent pillows, complemented by abstract blue wall art, a contemporary glass coffee table with decor, and a warm-toned floor lamp and guitar adding personality. Perfect for inspiration on creating a serene yet sophisticated living space. The custom handrail and balustrade bring definition to this cool-toned living room.

Mid-sized trendy medium tone wood floor and exposed beam great room photo in Seattle with white walls, a standard fireplace and a stacked stone fireplace

Great room - mid-sized coastal great room idea in Nashville with white walls and no fireplace

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

We started we a dated living space from the early 2000's. Our client loves color and wanted to go bold. We started removing old 12x12 ceramic tiles and replace them with hardwood flooring. We added wall paneling in the living room to give the space more architectural significance and bring the tall ceiling to human scale. Custom draperies were added for color on the walls. In the dining room we added a banana bark wallpaper on the walls and a patterned grasscloth on the ceiling.