Search results for "Hurdles" in Home Design Ideas

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops.
“We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client.
Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained.
He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops.
“We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client.
Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained.
He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Hall in Bronco Revival | Key Feature: A warm, masculine, family-friendly Scottsdale home refresh designed to function as both a lived-in family space and a design showroom, blending current trends with timeless style.
Challenge: The main challenge was maintaining a cohesive design while replacing underperforming elements from a previous installation, all within an existing architectural framework. Additional hurdles included sourcing pieces that worked with existing furniture, finding properly scaled rugs for large North Scottsdale rooms, ensuring correct counter stool height for a substantial 3-inch stone slab island, and coordinating the timeline around photography/videography schedules and local contractor availability.
Solution: We approached the refresh strategically by preserving the strongest existing elements while updating key furnishings and finishes to create a warmer, more sophisticated look. New vendor relationships and products were tested before specifying for broader client use, while all selections prioritized durability for an active family lifestyle. Timeline flexibility became a creative advantage, allowing for an unconventional beam wallpaper application that ultimately became a signature design moment. Our construction management ensured seamless coordination across trades throughout the Scottsdale area.
Materials:
Moss Studio- Sofa + Pillows |
Coffee tables by MadeGoods: Davion Coffee Tables – sculptural mango wood with rich texture |
Performance rugs by Loloi: High-traffic wool construction perfect for pets and children |
Custom drapery fabric by Schumacher: Premium textiles maintaining original custom window treatments |
Drapery hardware by Hesler Brothers |
Palmer Industries - |
Sun Lighting - Chandeliers, Table Lamps, Pendants |
Budget ($ Range): $75-$100K |
Timeline (Duration): 3 months
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Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops.
“We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client.
Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained.
He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops.
“We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client.
Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained.
He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Kitchen in Bronco Revival | Key Feature: A warm, masculine, family-friendly Scottsdale home refresh designed to function as both a lived-in family space and a design showroom, blending current trends with timeless style.
Challenge: The main challenge was maintaining a cohesive design while replacing underperforming elements from a previous installation, all within an existing architectural framework. Additional hurdles included sourcing pieces that worked with existing furniture, finding properly scaled rugs for large North Scottsdale rooms, ensuring correct counter stool height for a substantial 3-inch stone slab island, and coordinating the timeline around photography/videography schedules and local contractor availability.
Solution: We approached the refresh strategically by preserving the strongest existing elements while updating key furnishings and finishes to create a warmer, more sophisticated look. New vendor relationships and products were tested before specifying for broader client use, while all selections prioritized durability for an active family lifestyle. Timeline flexibility became a creative advantage, allowing for an unconventional beam wallpaper application that ultimately became a signature design moment. Our construction management ensured seamless coordination across trades throughout the Scottsdale area.
Materials:
Moss Studio- Sofa + Pillows |
Coffee tables by MadeGoods: Davion Coffee Tables – sculptural mango wood with rich texture |
Performance rugs by Loloi: High-traffic wool construction perfect for pets and children |
Custom drapery fabric by Schumacher: Premium textiles maintaining original custom window treatments |
Drapery hardware by Hesler Brothers |
Palmer Industries - |
Sun Lighting - Chandeliers, Table Lamps, Pendants |
Budget ($ Range): $75-$100K |
Timeline (Duration): 3 months

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops.
“We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client.
Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained.
He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops.
“We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client.
Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained.
He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Jane Benson
Example of a large mountain style wooden l-shaped staircase design with wooden risers
Example of a large mountain style wooden l-shaped staircase design with wooden risers

Sandprints Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard deck remodel in San Luis Obispo with a fire pit and no cover
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard deck remodel in San Luis Obispo with a fire pit and no cover

Door Style: Parkside Inset
Construction: Flush Inset
Wood Type: HDM
Paint: Showplace Paints - Black
After purchasing this modern style ranch home built in the 1980's the homeowners wanted to open up the floor plan and modernize the look and feel. Creating a functional space that met the cooking needs of a large active family while supporting entertaining large parties with ease was very important. With good bones and many appealing architectural details already in place, the home just needed a make over with good design to become the next better version of itself.
One of the first hurdles in developing this design was creating a contemporary Scandinavian feel without upper wall cabinets, so special attention needed to be placed on storage needs. This was addressed through the use of multiple sets of wide, large drawer banks, tray divider cabinets, and storage on the back side of the island's counter top overhang. This created the necessary space to ensure every pot and pan had a home, and in the correct place for its intended purpose.
Entertainment needs were addressed by creating a separate space dedicated to wine columns, a coffee station, and associated glassware.
The homeowners came into the project with a desire for black painted shaker style cabinetry with large gold hardware; this was an appealing challenge for the design team at Haggard Home Cabinetry & Design, who loved the unique opportunity to "color outside of the lines" and stretch their creative talents. A combination of sky lights and large windows flood the space with natural light and enhance the dark painted choice in cabinetry. In the end, the homeowners brought their tasteful vision of a great design to this project which became beautiful reality in a space they will love for years to come.
Completed by Haggard Home Cabinetry & Design in Norcross, GA, this beautiful project was a 2019 Showplace Cabinetry National Award Winner – Best Kitchen Design for a New Showplace Dealer.

Classic designs have staying power! This striking red brick colonial project struck the perfect balance of old-school and new-school exemplified by the kitchen which combines Traditional elegance and a pinch of Industrial to keep things fresh.

Door Style: Parkside Inset
Construction: Flush Inset
Wood Type: HDM
Paint: Showplace Paints - Black
After purchasing this modern style ranch home built in the 1980's the homeowners wanted to open up the floor plan and modernize the look and feel. Creating a functional space that met the cooking needs of a large active family while supporting entertaining large parties with ease was very important. With good bones and many appealing architectural details already in place, the home just needed a make over with good design to become the next better version of itself.
One of the first hurdles in developing this design was creating a contemporary Scandinavian feel without upper wall cabinets, so special attention needed to be placed on storage needs. This was addressed through the use of multiple sets of wide, large drawer banks, tray divider cabinets, and storage on the back side of the island's counter top overhang. This created the necessary space to ensure every pot and pan had a home, and in the correct place for its intended purpose.
Entertainment needs were addressed by creating a separate space dedicated to wine columns, a coffee station, and associated glassware.
The homeowners came into the project with a desire for black painted shaker style cabinetry with large gold hardware; this was an appealing challenge for the design team at Haggard Home Cabinetry & Design, who loved the unique opportunity to "color outside of the lines" and stretch their creative talents. A combination of sky lights and large windows flood the space with natural light and enhance the dark painted choice in cabinetry. In the end, the homeowners brought their tasteful vision of a great design to this project which became beautiful reality in a space they will love for years to come.
Completed by Haggard Home Cabinetry & Design in Norcross, GA, this beautiful project was a 2019 Showplace Cabinetry National Award Winner – Best Kitchen Design for a New Showplace Dealer.

Here's one of our most recent projects that was completed in 2011. This client had just finished a major remodel of their house in 2008 and were about to enjoy Christmas in their new home. At the time, Seattle was buried under several inches of snow (a rarity for us) and the entire region was paralyzed for a few days waiting for the thaw. Our client decided to take advantage of this opportunity and was in his driveway sledding when a neighbor rushed down the drive yelling that his house was on fire. Unfortunately, the house was already engulfed in flames. Equally unfortunate was the snowstorm and the delay it caused the fire department getting to the site. By the time they arrived, the house and contents were a total loss of more than $2.2 million.
Here's one of our most recent projects that was completed in 2011. This client had just finished a major remodel of their house in 2008 and were about to enjoy Christmas in their new home. At the time, Seattle was buried under several inches of snow (a rarity for us) and the entire region was paralyzed for a few days waiting for the thaw. Our client decided to take advantage of this opportunity and was in his driveway sledding when a neighbor rushed down the drive yelling that his house was on fire. Unfortunately, the house was already engulfed in flames. Equally unfortunate was the snowstorm and the delay it caused the fire department getting to the site. By the time they arrived, the house and contents were a total loss of more than $2.2 million.
Our role in the reconstruction of this home was two-fold. The first year of our involvement was spent working with a team of forensic contractors gutting the house, cleansing it of all particulate matter, and then helping our client negotiate his insurance settlement. Once we got over these hurdles, the design work and reconstruction started. Maintaining the existing shell, we reworked the interior room arrangement to create classic great room house with a contemporary twist. Both levels of the home were opened up to take advantage of the waterfront views and flood the interiors with natural light. On the lower level, rearrangement of the walls resulted in a tripling of the size of the family room while creating an additional sitting/game room. The upper level was arranged with living spaces bookended by the Master Bedroom at one end the kitchen at the other. The open Great Room and wrap around deck create a relaxed and sophisticated living and entertainment space that is accentuated by a high level of trim and tile detail on the interior and by custom metal railings and light fixtures on the exterior.

We recently completed an extraordinary pool project in Jupiter, Florida, pushing the boundaries of traditional pool design. The client envisioned a truly unique space, a half-oval pool with a curved infinity edge, a raised spa, and dual sundecks. At Epic Watershapes, we embraced the challenge and transformed this artistic vision into a stunning reality.
Creating a symmetrical pool with a vanishing edge along a curve presented a significant technical hurdle. However, our team's expertise and meticulous attention to detail allowed us to achieve perfect symmetry and a flawlessly functioning infinity edge. The client's inspired design was a work of art in itself, and we were determined to not only meet but exceed their expectations.
The pool's standout features include the gracefully curved infinity edge, which creates a seamless transition to the surrounding landscape. A raised spa, tiled with luxurious materials, sits elegantly in the left corner, offering a relaxing retreat. Two sundecks, each positioned on either corner of the pool, provide ample space for lounging and soaking up the Florida sun. Bubblers integrated into the sundecks add a playful touch and create a soothing ambiance.
This project embodies Epic Watershapes' commitment to innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship. From the unorthodox pool shape to the intricate details, every aspect of this Jupiter pool reflects our dedication to creating custom outdoor spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional.
Located in beautiful Jupiter, this modern pool is a testament to our ability to bring even the most imaginative visions to life. Visit our website at www.epicwatershapes.com or our Houzz profile at https://www.houzz.com/pro/samuel-mello/__public to explore more of our projects. Contact us today to discuss your dream pool!

THIS TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN AND AND BATH REMODEL IN NORTH ASHEVILLE HAS CLEAN LINES AND A SLEEK LOOK.
HomeSource Builders completed the demolition and subcontracted the installation, under the expert guidance of Project Manager Corey Rogers. A striking feature, he relates, is the tiling installed by Mosaic Custom Tile.
“In my opinion,” he said, “the tile setters really made the kitchen stand out with the clean lines and sleek look the clients were trying to achieve.”
In addition to the backsplash tile, HomeSource installed the kitchen and bathroom cabinets as well as the kitchen and bath quartz countertops.
It’s extraordinarily helpful when clients have well-defined goals. “These clients were ideal, and made my job much easier,” Corey said. “They were very detailed and knew exactly what they wanted.”
Since the clients were renovating all bathrooms in the house, a challenge to overcome was phasing the project so that the client had a working bathroom at all times. This hurdle was easily overcome, though, with skillfully choreographed scheduling.
Designer Christy Dunlap of HomeSource Design Center led the design charge. “Besides the pleasure of working with two delightful people,” she said, “it was great to design a beautiful navy kitchen with walnut accents.”
Subcontractors employed to complete the remodel were French Broad Plumbing, Wired Right Electrical, Mountain Air Mechanical Contractors, Inc., Mosaic Custom Tile, Haywood Appliance, New Image Home Improvement, and Victor Chapina Painting.
CREDITS:
Kitchen Backsplash: Daltile Color Wheel Arctic White Gloss
Kitchen Countertops: Cambria Britannica w/ eased edge profile
Kitchen Cabinets: North American Cabinets – Austin (shaker) door style, Maple wood w/ Benjamin Moore Paint Evening Sky
Kitchen Cabinets Upper: Black Walnut with clear glass doors
Master Bath Cabinets: North American Cabinets, MDF Frameless with Taupe Paint
Master Bath Countertops: Cambria Britannica
Guest Bath Cabinet: Wellborn Premier Series: Alto Door Style, MDF, Bleu Paint
Guest Bath Countertop: Caesar Stone Quartz: Bianco Drift

This project aimed to cater to a multigenerational family that occupies the main floor of their home, with the kitchen being the central hub. With four adults passionate about cooking and entertaining, it was staged to be a unique project!
The primary aim was to enhance kitchen traffic flow and functionality, which was accomplished by introducing a nine-foot island with various features: trash/recycle, microwave, and storage for mixing bowls, utensils, and knives.
The range top was elegantly positioned at the kitchen's end, framed by a stylish cherry hood with sweeping curves and a classic herringbone tile pattern. This naturally formed a captivating focal point in the room. During the construction, we faced a hurdle due to a cross beam obstructing ceiling venting.
The formal dining room had two closely spaced doors, one from the kitchen and one from the hallway. To create a more functional pantry space and provide space for wall ovens, the kitchen entry was closed off. A highly efficient scullery-style pantry was designed with a 96” opening with 48" wide bi-passing doors; it features dedicated countertop zones for various large appliances that would be challenging to lift out of a cabinet.
The bookshelves were carefully designed to emphasize balance between the refrigerator and ovens, enhancing the flow and overall continuity of the expanded kitchen. The homeowner's vast cookbook collection, along with a few tchotchkes, adds personal character and color to the space. While this design element removed the option for a countertop next to the refrigerator and ovens, the homeowners were very comfortable with the sizeable adjacent island, which provides an ample landing zone.
Finally, the most daring choice is a bold blue hue. This topped with crisp white quartz countertops and warm cherry features, beautifully reflects the vibrant and joyful life of the family.
The spacious nook area transformed into an ideal indoor entertainment space that seamlessly complements gatherings inside and out. The choice of cherry cabinets, paired with striking black quartz countertops, was deliberate, as it added warmth to the area and established a solid connection to the stunning outdoor views.
Articulating arm sconces not only provided illumination but also highlighted the eclectic tiki-style glassware displayed on the floating shelves. Pendant lights strategically placed in front of each window improved countertop functionality, while the ceiling fan's light served as ambient illumination. The arm sconces, together with the brass-finished pendants, contributed to a cohesive design, extending the lighting theme from the adjacent nook area.

THIS TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN AND AND BATH REMODEL IN NORTH ASHEVILLE HAS CLEAN LINES AND A SLEEK LOOK.
HomeSource Builders completed the demolition and subcontracted the installation, under the expert guidance of Project Manager Corey Rogers. A striking feature, he relates, is the tiling installed by Mosaic Custom Tile.
“In my opinion,” he said, “the tile setters really made the kitchen stand out with the clean lines and sleek look the clients were trying to achieve.”
In addition to the backsplash tile, HomeSource installed the kitchen and bathroom cabinets as well as the kitchen and bath quartz countertops.
It’s extraordinarily helpful when clients have well-defined goals. “These clients were ideal, and made my job much easier,” Corey said. “They were very detailed and knew exactly what they wanted.”
Since the clients were renovating all bathrooms in the house, a challenge to overcome was phasing the project so that the client had a working bathroom at all times. This hurdle was easily overcome, though, with skillfully choreographed scheduling.
Designer Christy Dunlap of HomeSource Design Center led the design charge. “Besides the pleasure of working with two delightful people,” she said, “it was great to design a beautiful navy kitchen with walnut accents.”
Subcontractors employed to complete the remodel were French Broad Plumbing, Wired Right Electrical, Mountain Air Mechanical Contractors, Inc., Mosaic Custom Tile, Haywood Appliance, New Image Home Improvement, and Victor Chapina Painting.
CREDITS:
Kitchen Backsplash: Daltile Color Wheel Arctic White Gloss
Kitchen Countertops: Cambria Britannica w/ eased edge profile
Kitchen Cabinets: North American Cabinets – Austin (shaker) door style, Maple wood w/ Benjamin Moore Paint Evening Sky
Kitchen Cabinets Upper: Black Walnut with clear glass doors
Master Bath Cabinets: North American Cabinets, MDF Frameless with Taupe Paint
Master Bath Countertops: Cambria Britannica
Guest Bath Cabinet: Wellborn Premier Series: Alto Door Style, MDF, Bleu Paint
Guest Bath Countertop: Caesar Stone Quartz: Bianco Drift
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