Today’s basements are much more than dark, dingy spaces or rec rooms of years ago. Because homeowners are spending more time in them, basements have evolved into lower-levels with distinctive spaces, complete with stone and marble fireplaces, sitting areas, coffee and wine bars, home theaters, over sized guest suites and bathrooms that rival some of the most luxurious resort accommodations. Gracing the lakeshore of Lake Beulah, this homes lower-level presents a beautiful opening to the deck and offers dynamic lake views. To take advantage of the home’s placement, the homeowner wanted to enhance the lower-level and provide a more rustic feel to match the home’s main level, while making the space more functional for boating equipment and easy access to the pier and lakefront. Jeff Auberger designed a seating area to transform into a theater room with a touch of a button. A hidden screen descends from the ceiling, offering a perfect place to relax after a day on the lake. Our team worked with a local company that supplies reclaimed barn board to add to the decor and finish off the new space. Using salvaged wood from a corn crib located in nearby Delavan, Jeff designed a charming area near the patio door that features two closets behind sliding barn doors and a bench nestled between the closets, providing an ideal spot to hang wet towels and store flip flops after a day of boating. The reclaimed barn board was also incorporated into built-in shelving alongside the fireplace and an accent wall in the updated kitchenette. Lastly the children in this home are fans of the Harry Potter book series, so naturally, there was a Harry Potter themed cupboard under the stairs created. This cozy reading nook features Hogwartz banners and wizarding wands that would amaze any fan of the book series.

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

Step into a mesmerizing evening retreat that effortlessly extends your living space, creating a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor living. Through expansive balcony doors, the back entry of your house seamlessly merges with the captivating outdoor area, allowing the warm glow of the setting sun to flood the interior while offering a breathtaking view of the tranquil pool oasis. As the sun starts its slow descent, the sparkling pool takes center stage in this delightful setting, gracefully nestled slightly below the house floor. Two sets of steps, each with two steps on either side, are gently illuminated, leading from the back entry to the pool area, making it a breeze to move between the house and the inviting waters. The large balcony doors, with their expansive glass panels, blur the boundaries between inside and outside, offering uninterrupted views of the serene pool from within the house. This seamless integration creates a sense of openness and connectivity, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the evening backyard even when you're indoors. The pool area itself transforms into a captivating oasis as the sky paints itself with hues of orange and pink. Its tranquil waters reflect the vibrant colors, while soft outdoor lights create a warm and inviting ambiance. The soothing sounds of water cascading from fountains or gentle ripples from a swim add to the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and rejuvenating after a long day. Strategically placed comfortable loungers and seating arrangements are gently lit, encouraging you to spend leisurely hours outdoors, whether you're basking in the last rays of the sun or finding a cozy spot under the soft glow of lamps. Lush landscaping and carefully selected plants surround the pool, providing privacy and tranquility. The beauty of nature embraces the evening space, offering a soothing backdrop and a touch of natural elegance. As you step from the house to the poolside or vice versa, the enchanting evening atmosphere envelops you, making the entire area feel like an oasis of leisure and relaxation. It's a space where you can escape the hustle of daily life, unwind in the beauty of nature, and create cherished moments with family and friends—all within the comfort of your own home as the evening sets in.

Many families ponder the idea of adding extra living space for a few years before they are actually ready to remodel. Then, all-of-the sudden, something will happen that makes them realize that they can’t wait any longer. In the case of this remodeling story, it was the snowstorm of 2016 that spurred the homeowners into action. As the family was stuck in the house with nowhere to go, they longed for more space. The parents longed for a getaway spot for themselves that could also double as a hangout area for the kids and their friends. As they considered their options, there was one clear choice…to renovate the detached garage. The detached garage previously functioned as a workshop and storage room and offered plenty of square footage to create a family room, kitchenette, and full bath. It’s location right beside the outdoor kitchen made it an ideal spot for entertaining and provided an easily accessible bathroom during the summertime. Even the canine family members get to enjoy it as they have their own personal entrance, through a bathroom doggie door. Our design team listened carefully to our client’s wishes to create a space that had a modern rustic feel and found selections that fit their aesthetic perfectly. To set the tone, Blackstone Oak luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout. The kitchenette area features Maple Shaker style cabinets in a pecan shell stain, Uba Tuba granite countertops, and an eye-catching amber glass and antique bronze pulley sconce. Rather than use just an ordinary door for the bathroom entry, a gorgeous Knotty Alder barn door creates a stunning focal point of the room. The fantastic selections continue in the full bath. A reclaimed wood double vanity with a gray washed pine finish anchors the room. White, semi-recessed sinks with chrome faucets add some contemporary accents, while the glass and oil-rubbed bronze mini pendant lights are a balance between both rustic and modern. The design called for taking the shower tile to the ceiling and it really paid off. A sliced pebble tile floor in the shower is curbed with Uba Tuba granite, creating a clean line and another accent detail. The new multi-functional space looks like a natural extension of their home, with its matching exterior lights, new windows, doors, and sliders. And with winter approaching and snow on the way, this family is ready to hunker down and ride out the storm in comfort and warmth. When summer arrives, they have a designated bathroom for outdoor entertaining and a wonderful area for guests to hang out. It was a pleasure to create this beautiful remodel for our clients and we hope that they continue to enjoy it for many years to come.

Today’s basements are much more than dark, dingy spaces or rec rooms of years ago. Because homeowners are spending more time in them, basements have evolved into lower-levels with distinctive spaces, complete with stone and marble fireplaces, sitting areas, coffee and wine bars, home theaters, over sized guest suites and bathrooms that rival some of the most luxurious resort accommodations. Gracing the lakeshore of Lake Beulah, this homes lower-level presents a beautiful opening to the deck and offers dynamic lake views. To take advantage of the home’s placement, the homeowner wanted to enhance the lower-level and provide a more rustic feel to match the home’s main level, while making the space more functional for boating equipment and easy access to the pier and lakefront. Jeff Auberger designed a seating area to transform into a theater room with a touch of a button. A hidden screen descends from the ceiling, offering a perfect place to relax after a day on the lake. Our team worked with a local company that supplies reclaimed barn board to add to the decor and finish off the new space. Using salvaged wood from a corn crib located in nearby Delavan, Jeff designed a charming area near the patio door that features two closets behind sliding barn doors and a bench nestled between the closets, providing an ideal spot to hang wet towels and store flip flops after a day of boating. The reclaimed barn board was also incorporated into built-in shelving alongside the fireplace and an accent wall in the updated kitchenette. Lastly the children in this home are fans of the Harry Potter book series, so naturally, there was a Harry Potter themed cupboard under the stairs created. This cozy reading nook features Hogwartz banners and wizarding wands that would amaze any fan of the book series.

Ultra modern two tone kitchen. We doubled the space and left it open for ease of entertaining. Tile that looks like wood for ease of maintenance.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary u-shaped porcelain tile eat-in kitchen remodel in Tampa with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, metallic backsplash, matchstick tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen: A Stylish Blend of Two Tones This modern farmhouse kitchen captures the essence of contemporary design while embracing the warmth and charm of traditional farmhouse elements. Featuring a striking two-tone color scheme, the kitchen beautifully pairs black cabinetry on the island and bar with classic white shaker cabinets, creating a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Key Features of This Kitchen Design: Two-Tone Cabinetry: The contrast between the bold black island and bar cabinetry and the crisp white shaker cabinets adds depth and visual interest to the space. This thoughtful color combination highlights the farmhouse aesthetic while maintaining a modern edge. Black Island and Bar: The black island serves as a stunning focal point, offering ample space for meal preparation and casual dining. The bar area complements the island and provides an ideal spot for entertaining guests, making it both functional and stylish. White Shaker Cabinets: The classic white shaker cabinetry provides a clean and timeless look, balancing the boldness of the black accents. These cabinets offer plenty of storage while enhancing the kitchen's bright and airy feel. Industrial-style light fixtures, vintage-inspired hardware, and textured fabrics can add character and a touch of elegance to the space. Open Shelving: Incorporating open shelving in the design allows for decorative displays of dishware or curated accessories, adding a personal touch while maintaining the airy feel of the kitchen. Natural Elements: Incorporate wooden accents, such as a butcher block countertop on the island or wooden bar stools, to add warmth and an organic feel that complements the farmhouse vibe. Functional Layout: The open layout promotes easy flow between cooking, dining, and entertaining areas, making it a perfect space for both family gatherings and social occasions. This modern farmhouse kitchen with its two-tone cabinetry—black island and bar paired with white shaker cabinets—exudes a stylish blend of contemporary elegance and rustic charm, creating a welcoming and functional heart of the home. The overall design reflects a harmonious balance between modern sophistication and timeless farmhouse aesthetics.

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

Welcome to the world of beachfront bliss with this captivating Houzz project by Jon Cancellino. This stunning beach home is a harmonious blend of elegance and relaxation, with a range of design elements that bring the tranquility of the seaside right to your doorstep. Upon entering the house, you're welcomed by the pristine white walls and expansive glass doors that seamlessly connect the interior and exterior spaces. The natural light spills in, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. To add a touch of privacy and style, window blinds are elegantly incorporated, allowing you to control the ocean views while maintaining a cozy ambiance. As you step outside, the landscape transforms into a coastal paradise. The brick flooring outdoors adds a rustic charm that complements the beachy surroundings, making every moment feel like a beachside escape. The outdoor seating area features comfortable lounge chairs, perfect for unwinding while taking in the ocean breeze. A round table becomes the focal point, ideal for enjoying meals with friends and family or a quiet sunset dinner. The pool area is a true showpiece of this beach home. The sparkling swimming pool is surrounded by a meticulously landscaped garden with a variety of outdoor plants that create a lush and tropical oasis. The outdoor space is not only a visual delight but also an ideal spot for relaxation and entertainment. A gas grill is conveniently located, ensuring that your outdoor gatherings are complete with delicious barbecue feasts. Indoors, marble flooring adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the home decor. The house is adorned with tasteful wall paintings that evoke the serenity and beauty of the beach. Each room reflects the owner's impeccable taste in design, showcasing the perfect balance of comfort and aesthetics. This beach home project by Jon Cancellino is a testament to the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living, where the beauty of the beach is captured in every detail. Whether you're soaking in the sun by the pool or lounging in the comfortable chairs on the outdoor patio, this house is a sanctuary of style and relaxation, inviting you to enjoy the coastal lifestyle to the fullest.

What a kitchen this turned out to be! The white maple mock inset-style cabinetry combined with the subtle details of the wire brushed white oak island, matching floating shelves and matching decorative wood hood pull this kitchen space together beautifully. #11919

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This homeowner’s daughter originally contacted us on behalf of her parents who were reluctant to begin the remodeling process in their home due to the inconvenience and dust. Once we met and they dipped their toes into the process, we were off to the races. The existing bathroom in this beautiful historical 1920’s home, had not been updated since the 70’/80’s as evidenced by the blue carpeting, mirrored walls and dropped ceilings. In addition, there was very little storage, and some health setbacks had made the bathroom difficult to maneuver with its tub shower. Once we demoed, we discovered everything we expected to find in a home that had not been updated for many years. We got to work bringing all the electrical and plumbing up to code, and it was just as dusty and dirty as the homeowner’s anticipated! Once the space was demoed, we got to work building our new plan. We eliminated the existing tub and created a large walk-in curb-less shower. An existing closet was eliminated and in its place, we planned a custom built in with spots for linens, jewelry and general storage. Because of the small space, we had to be very creative with the shower footprint, so we clipped one of the walls for more clearance behind the sink. The bathroom features a beautiful custom mosaic floor tile as well as tiled walls throughout the space. This required lots of coordination between the carpenter and tile setter to make sure that the framing and tile design were all properly aligned. We worked around an existing radiator and a unique original leaded window that was architecturally significant to the façade of the home. We had a lot of extra depth behind the original toilet location, so we built the wall out a bit, moved the toilet forward and then created some extra storage space behind the commode. We settled on mirrored mullioned doors to bounce lots of light around the smaller space. We also went back and forth on deciding between a single and double vanity, and in the end decided the single vanity allowed for more counter space, more storage below and for the design to breath a bit in the smaller space. I’m so happy with this decision! To build on the luxurious feel of the space, we added a heated towel bar and heated flooring. One of the concerns the homeowners had was having a comfortable floor to walk on. They realized that carpet was not a very practical solution but liked the comfort it had provided. Heated floors are the perfect solution. The room is decidedly traditional from its intricate mosaic marble floor to the calacutta marble clad walls. Elegant gold chandelier style fixtures, marble countertops and Morris & Co. beaded wallpaper provide an opulent feel to the space. The gray monochromatic pallet keeps it feeling fresh and up-to-date. The beautiful leaded glass window is an important architectural feature at the front of the house. In the summertime, the homeowners love having the window open for fresh air and ventilation. We love it too! The curb-less shower features a small fold down bench that can be used if needed and folded up when not. The shower also features a custom niche for storing shampoo and other hair products. The linear drain is built into the tilework and is barely visible. A frameless glass door that swings both in and out completes the luxurious feel. 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

Many families ponder the idea of adding extra living space for a few years before they are actually ready to remodel. Then, all-of-the sudden, something will happen that makes them realize that they can’t wait any longer. In the case of this remodeling story, it was the snowstorm of 2016 that spurred the homeowners into action. As the family was stuck in the house with nowhere to go, they longed for more space. The parents longed for a getaway spot for themselves that could also double as a hangout area for the kids and their friends. As they considered their options, there was one clear choice…to renovate the detached garage. The detached garage previously functioned as a workshop and storage room and offered plenty of square footage to create a family room, kitchenette, and full bath. It’s location right beside the outdoor kitchen made it an ideal spot for entertaining and provided an easily accessible bathroom during the summertime. Even the canine family members get to enjoy it as they have their own personal entrance, through a bathroom doggie door. Our design team listened carefully to our client’s wishes to create a space that had a modern rustic feel and found selections that fit their aesthetic perfectly. To set the tone, Blackstone Oak luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout. The kitchenette area features Maple Shaker style cabinets in a pecan shell stain, Uba Tuba granite countertops, and an eye-catching amber glass and antique bronze pulley sconce. Rather than use just an ordinary door for the bathroom entry, a gorgeous Knotty Alder barn door creates a stunning focal point of the room. The fantastic selections continue in the full bath. A reclaimed wood double vanity with a gray washed pine finish anchors the room. White, semi-recessed sinks with chrome faucets add some contemporary accents, while the glass and oil-rubbed bronze mini pendant lights are a balance between both rustic and modern. The design called for taking the shower tile to the ceiling and it really paid off. A sliced pebble tile floor in the shower is curbed with Uba Tuba granite, creating a clean line and another accent detail. The new multi-functional space looks like a natural extension of their home, with its matching exterior lights, new windows, doors, and sliders. And with winter approaching and snow on the way, this family is ready to hunker down and ride out the storm in comfort and warmth. When summer arrives, they have a designated bathroom for outdoor entertaining and a wonderful area for guests to hang out. It was a pleasure to create this beautiful remodel for our clients and we hope that they continue to enjoy it for many years to come.

Today’s basements are much more than dark, dingy spaces or rec rooms of years ago. Because homeowners are spending more time in them, basements have evolved into lower-levels with distinctive spaces, complete with stone and marble fireplaces, sitting areas, coffee and wine bars, home theaters, over sized guest suites and bathrooms that rival some of the most luxurious resort accommodations. Gracing the lakeshore of Lake Beulah, this homes lower-level presents a beautiful opening to the deck and offers dynamic lake views. To take advantage of the home’s placement, the homeowner wanted to enhance the lower-level and provide a more rustic feel to match the home’s main level, while making the space more functional for boating equipment and easy access to the pier and lakefront. Jeff Auberger designed a seating area to transform into a theater room with a touch of a button. A hidden screen descends from the ceiling, offering a perfect place to relax after a day on the lake. Our team worked with a local company that supplies reclaimed barn board to add to the decor and finish off the new space. Using salvaged wood from a corn crib located in nearby Delavan, Jeff designed a charming area near the patio door that features two closets behind sliding barn doors and a bench nestled between the closets, providing an ideal spot to hang wet towels and store flip flops after a day of boating. The reclaimed barn board was also incorporated into built-in shelving alongside the fireplace and an accent wall in the updated kitchenette. Lastly the children in this home are fans of the Harry Potter book series, so naturally, there was a Harry Potter themed cupboard under the stairs created. This cozy reading nook features Hogwartz banners and wizarding wands that would amaze any fan of the book series.

This modern kitchen design in Hingham is sure to be the bright spot in the center of this home. Mouser Cabinetry sets the tone for this design with white beaded inset perimeter cabinets, which is contrasted by a dark wood finish kitchen island with a built in microwave. Both cabinets are Centra Square Inset Reno door style, complemented by Emtek satin nickel Alexander Pulls and Norwich Knobs. A white with gray veining countertop from Boston Bluestone is an ideal counterpart to the cabinetry along with a Highland Park Dove Grey 3 x 6 glass tile backsplash. The large Kohler Vault farmhouse sink sits under a bright window, paired with a Blanco Culina Chrome faucet. The island includes an Elkay single bowl sink, with the two sinks creating a perfect zone for food preparation and clean up including space for more than one person to work. Cooking will be a breeze in this kitchen with a large Wolf oven, along with a Blanco Cantata chrome pot filler faucet. A custom hutch adds storage and style with the central cabinet doors in a black frame with glass front doors to contrast the white cabinetry. In cabinet lighting spotlights these striking cabinets and adds space to display favorite items. The bright kitchen includes ample natural light plus dramatic Feiss Kenney Collection light fixtures with two above island and one above the table. This stunning kitchen design offers ample space for cooking, dining, and entertaining, and is connected to an adjacent living area with a custom bar.

Today’s basements are much more than dark, dingy spaces or rec rooms of years ago. Because homeowners are spending more time in them, basements have evolved into lower-levels with distinctive spaces, complete with stone and marble fireplaces, sitting areas, coffee and wine bars, home theaters, over sized guest suites and bathrooms that rival some of the most luxurious resort accommodations. Gracing the lakeshore of Lake Beulah, this homes lower-level presents a beautiful opening to the deck and offers dynamic lake views. To take advantage of the home’s placement, the homeowner wanted to enhance the lower-level and provide a more rustic feel to match the home’s main level, while making the space more functional for boating equipment and easy access to the pier and lakefront. Jeff Auberger designed a seating area to transform into a theater room with a touch of a button. A hidden screen descends from the ceiling, offering a perfect place to relax after a day on the lake. Our team worked with a local company that supplies reclaimed barn board to add to the decor and finish off the new space. Using salvaged wood from a corn crib located in nearby Delavan, Jeff designed a charming area near the patio door that features two closets behind sliding barn doors and a bench nestled between the closets, providing an ideal spot to hang wet towels and store flip flops after a day of boating. The reclaimed barn board was also incorporated into built-in shelving alongside the fireplace and an accent wall in the updated kitchenette. Lastly the children in this home are fans of the Harry Potter book series, so naturally, there was a Harry Potter themed cupboard under the stairs created. This cozy reading nook features Hogwartz banners and wizarding wands that would amaze any fan of the book series.

Large mid-century modern light wood floor and wood ceiling great room photo in Austin with a two-sided fireplace and a brick fireplace

Inspiration for a rustic bedroom remodel in San Francisco

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This client wanted a complete update of their kitchen and came to us with several objectives. They wanted a larger island and easier access to the dining room. They also wanted to eliminate the existing cooktop location from the island and make the island larger. Because the existing space was not able to accommodate all those requests, we decided to eliminate the breakfast area and incorporate that space into the kitchen. By eliminating an existing bay window and making the kitchen sink window larger, we were able to make the new layout work without sacrificing any natural light. A French door to the newly added and adjoining sunroom and casual outdoor dining spot still allows for multiple dining options. And by enlarging the opening to the dining room, it allows for easier access to this space on a daily basis versus for special occasions only. The client already had a large desk in the kitchen and spends a lot of time at this area. We were able to make the new desk even larger by moving the refrigerator to another area. The refrigerator is covered in decorative panels so that it blends nicely into the furniture look of the room. The larger island can now seat several people comfortably. The room’s traditional feel was achieved by providing different finishes on the perimeter, island and desk cabinetry. Handmade gray backsplash tile, a combination of soapstone and Carrera marble give the space a classic appeal. Details provide interest – custom glass mullions, decorative wood hood and bronze hardware give the space character and charm. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Interior Design by: Rachel Alcorn Architect: Rick Rearick Contractor: KJN Renovations Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com