It's gorgeous days like today that you can hear the outdoors calling. This beautiful spot is ideal for a family meal, your outdoor office, or just sitting quietly and watching the world go by. (Photo by RStarovich)

We completed this stunning basement renovation, featuring a bar and a walk-in wine cellar. The bar is the centerpiece of the basement, with a beautiful countertop and custom-built cabinetry. With its moody and dramatic ambiance, this location proves to be an ideal spot for socializing.

Inspiration for a cottage entryway remodel in New York

Bob Narod Photography
Mid-sized elegant dark wood floor and brown floor great room photo in DC Metro with gray walls

Multi-level patios not only make smaller yards look larger, they help delineate how the space is intended to be used. In one area, this patio is ideal for relaxing and taking in the peaceful water feature. Another spot to the side of the feature, and in front of a thicket of tall trees, creates a private patio. Spots for sunning and being near the pool has also been mapped out. www.deckandpatio.com

Mid-sized transitional u-shaped marble floor and gray floor kitchen pantry photo in Charleston with shaker cabinets, brown cabinets and laminate countertops

The alcove which had been stripped of its original Tudor paneling, was repurposed. The fireplace was exposed while the surround was clad with antique European brick from Exquisite Surfaces who also furnished the white oak flooring material. A beverage center was installed in the far corner. The beam above it was veneered with reclaimed barn wood to look authentic. A circular table and ample seating from Ironies offer an ideal spot to play cards, write or draw. All media equipment by Bang & Olufsen.

The homeowners of this condo sought our assistance when downsizing from a large family home on Howe Sound to a small urban condo in Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver. They asked us to incorporate many of their precious antiques and art pieces into the new design. Our challenges here were twofold; first, how to deal with the unconventional curved floor plan with vast South facing windows that provide a 180 degree view of downtown Vancouver, and second, how to successfully merge an eclectic collection of antique pieces into a modern setting. We began by updating most of their artwork with new matting and framing. We created a gallery effect by grouping like artwork together and displaying larger pieces on the sections of wall between the windows, lighting them with black wall sconces for a graphic effect. We re-upholstered their antique seating with more contemporary fabrics choices - a gray flannel on their Victorian fainting couch and a fun orange chenille animal print on their Louis style chairs. We selected black as an accent colour for many of the accessories as well as the dining room wall to give the space a sophisticated modern edge. The new pieces that we added, including the sofa, coffee table and dining light fixture are mid century inspired, bridging the gap between old and new. White walls and understated wallpaper provide the perfect backdrop for the colourful mix of antique pieces. Interior Design by Lori Steeves, Simply Home Decorating. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography

Villa designers used Willow Creek Circlestone pavers for the patio. The retaining wall doubles as seating and a planter as well as the end column that is the ideal spot for a large planter with colorful annuals.

A first floor laundry was also added into the large mudroom just off the kitchen, creating an ideal spot for entry from the garage and yard and for wiping the occasional muddy puppy paws. Zachary Seib Photography

We utilized the unused space under the stairs for a snack station. Since space was limited in this kitchen , this was an ideal spot for the microwave drawer.

Example of a transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen design in Boston with recessed-panel cabinets, blue cabinets, white backsplash, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

The area off the kitchen becomes the dedicated homework area for the family's two children. This allows the family to stay connected during their busy evenings.

Tricia Shay Photography
Inspiration for a large contemporary carpeted bathroom remodel in Cleveland

Patio - mid-sized transitional backyard concrete paver patio idea in Orange County with a fire pit and no cover

Imagine a stunning backyard oasis featuring a beautiful pool surrounded by lush landscaping, a luxurious hot tub bubbling nearby, and a cozy sitting area equipped with a TV for ultimate relaxation. This ideal retreat invites you to unwind in the sun or under the stars, making it the perfect spot for both rejuvenating alone time and entertaining friends and family.

The perfect window seat offers a cozy and inviting nook, bathed in natural light and ideal for relaxation or reading. Its plush cushions and charming design create a comfortable spot to enjoy the view, making it a delightful focal point in any room.

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This project started out as a kitchen remodel but ended up as so much more. As the original plan started to take shape, some water damage provided the impetus to remodel a small upstairs hall bath. Once this bath was complete, the homeowners enjoyed the result so much that they decided to set aside the kitchen and complete a large master bath remodel. Once that was completed, we started planning for the kitchen! Doing the bump out also allowed the opportunity for a small mudroom and powder room right off the kitchen as well as re-arranging some openings to allow for better traffic flow throughout the entire first floor. The result is a comfortable up-to-date home that feels both steeped in history yet allows for today’s style of living. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Joel Banta : https://www.flickr.com/photos/joelbanta/ http://irvinbuffalo.flavors.me/