A large paver deck, 6 person spillway spa, large sun ledge with an umbrella holder and a built-in stone topped table and underwater stools make this spot the coolest one to hang out at all day long!

The recent redesign of the kitchen and dining nook skillfully fuses timeless French country aesthetics with modern design principles, tailored for a young couple who cherish both art and architecture. This transformation emphasizes an inviting, comfortable atmosphere without compromising on sophistication. The space uses a palette of muted colors and aged materials to achieve a subtle elegance that integrates seamlessly with the home’s intrinsic architectural charm. Central to the kitchen are two islands, designed to facilitate both everyday living and grand entertaining. These islands not only offer extensive preparation surfaces but also serve as social hubs, making the kitchen the heart of the home. Adjacent to this area, a well-equipped scullery and a butler’s pantry enhance functionality, providing ample space for storage and meal prep without cluttering the main kitchen area. The dining area is designed to host intimate dinners or family gatherings, while views of the stunning chandelier, sculpted ceilings and detailed millwork float above, echoing the home’s French influences. Similarly, the sitting area adjacent to the kitchen features comfortable seating and abundant natural light, creating a perfect spot for relaxation or casual conversation. Attention to detail is evident in the decorative grates on the pantry doors, and the arched glass elements in cabinetry, all nodding to classic French design. This project masterfully balances historical reverence with modern functionality, making it an ideal setting for both lively social gatherings and serene everyday living.

Instead of purchasing a second home, the homeowners decided to create a vacation destination right in their own yard. When the project was finished, the family had a whole new world just outside their door. Three sitting areas, dining spaces, and lounging areas under the decks. An outdoor kitchen, hot tub, and fountain. There is no reason for this family to travel to relax and get away from it all. The outdoor “rooms” were created to provide intimate retreats for each of the family members, at every stage of their lives. The outdoor kitchen was designed for entertaining, as was the hot tub. The cozy sitting areas provide ideal spots for reading a book, or sharing a glass of wine. The fountain’s stuccoed brick veneer is graced with handmade brass flutes that fill the garden with the soothing sounds of water. No travel required.

These homeowners came to us seeking a kitchen remodel that would deliver an updated look and increase the kitchen’s overall functionality. They had a clear vision of what they wanted, and we loved working with them to make the transformation a reality. A change that instantly made the kitchen feel more contemporary was bringing the cabinets up to the ceiling. We chose a tranquil gray for the island cabinetry to add depth to the overall white aesthetic and classic shaker cabinets. A white backsplash tile and some glass front cabinets make the space feel even lighter and brighter. The countertop is a sophisticated white quartz with gray veining. One complaint the owner had about their original kitchen was the lack of storage space for pots and pans. To address this, we incorporated large, heavy-duty drawers on either side of the cooktop. This is the optimal placement for usage and easily brings all the cookware into view, rather than being lost in a deep cabinet. One handy feature they now enjoy is a custom charging drawer at the end of the island which provides easy access to frequently used electronics without cluttering the countertop. Below the drawer is open shelving that adds charming visual interest and provides the ideal spot to store cookbooks. Even without drastic layout changes, the transformation is stunning! The contrast between the light cabinets and the hardwood floor is eye-catching without being overly dramatic and the simple hardware and fixtures give it a fresh look. This kitchen is one that is sure to be loved for years to come.

Example of a trendy kitchen design in San Francisco

As the landing spot for all homes, the mudroom must combine plenty of open and closed storage and of course a place to sit to take your shoes on an off. This mudroom accomplishes all that and more. The Dekton bench top is both beautiful and extremely durable for this high use area. A classic combination of walnut and wood brings classic warmth to the space. Photo Credit: Fred Donham-Photographerlink

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This client moved to the area to be near their adult daughter and grandchildren so this new construction is destined to be a place full of happy memories and family entertaining. The goal throughout the home was to incorporate their existing collection of artwork and sculpture with a more contemporary aesthetic. The kitchen, located on the first floor of the 3-story townhouse, shares the floor with a dining space, a living area and a powder room. The kitchen is U-shaped with the sink overlooking the dining room, the cooktop along the exterior wall, with a large clerestory window above, and the bank of tall paneled appliances and storage along the back wall. The European cabinetry is made up of three separate finishes – a light gray glossy lacquer for the base cabinets, a white glossy lacquer for the tall cabinets and a white glass finish for the wall cabinets above the cooktop. The colors are subtly different but provide a bit of texture that works nicely with the finishings chosen for the space. The stainless grooves and toe kick provide additional detail. The long peninsula provides casual seating and is topped with a custom walnut butcher block waterfall countertop that is 6” thick and has built in wine storage on the front side. This detail provides a warm spot to rest your arms and the wine storage provides a repetitive element that is heard again in the pendants and the barstool backs. The countertops are quartz, and appliances include a full size refrigerator and freezer, oven, steam oven, gas cooktop and paneled dishwasher. Cabinetry Design by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Interior Design by: Julie Dunfee Designs Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

For this ski chalet located just off the run, the owners wanted a Bootroom entry that would provide function and comfort while maintaining the custom rustic look of the chalet. This family getaway was built with entertaining and guests in mind, so the expansive Bootroom was designed with great flow to be a catch-all space essential for organization of equipment and guests. Integrated ski racks on the porch railings outside provide space for guests to park their gear. Covered entry has a metal floor grate, boot brushes, and boot kicks to clean snow off. Inside, ski racks line the wall beside a work bench, providing the perfect space to store skis, boards, and equipment, as well as the ideal spot to wax up before hitting the slopes. Around the corner are individual wood lockers, labeled for family members and usual guests. A custom-made hand-scraped wormwood bench takes the central display – protected with clear epoxy to preserve the look of holes while providing a waterproof and smooth surface. Wooden boot and glove dryers are positioned at either end of the room, these custom units feature sturdy wooden dowels to hold any equipment, and powerful fans mean that everything will be dry after lunch break. The Bootroom is finished with naturally aged wood wainscoting, rescued from a lumber storage field, and the large rail topper provides a perfect ledge for small items while pulling on freshly dried boots. Large wooden baseboards offer protection for the wall against stray equipment.

Wolf Composite deck with Wolf vinyl handrail and pvc pergola.
Inspiration for a large timeless backyard deck remodel with a pergola

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.

Free ebook, CREATING THE IDEAL KITCHEN Download now → http://bit.ly/idealkitchen This client moved to the area to be near their adult daughter and grandchildren so this new construction is destined to be a place full of happy memories and family entertaining. The goal throughout the home was to incorporate their existing collection of artwork and sculpture with a more contemporary aesthetic. The kitchen, located on the first floor of the 3-story townhouse, shares the floor with a dining space, a living area and a powder room. The kitchen is U-shaped with the sink overlooking the dining room, the cooktop along the exterior wall, with a large clerestory window above, and the bank of tall paneled appliances and storage along the back wall. The European cabinetry is made up of three separate finishes – a light gray glossy lacquer for the base cabinets, a white glossy lacquer for the tall cabinets and a white glass finish for the wall cabinets above the cooktop. The colors are subtly different but provide a bit of texture that works nicely with the finishings chosen for the space. The stainless grooves and toe kick provide additional detail. The long peninsula provides casual seating and is topped with a custom walnut butcher block waterfall countertop that is 6” thick and has built in wine storage on the front side. This detail provides a warm spot to rest your arms and the wine storage provides a repetitive element that is heard again in the pendants and the barstool backs. The countertops are quartz, and appliances include a full size refrigerator and freezer, oven, steam oven, gas cooktop and paneled dishwasher. Cabinetry Design by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Interior Design by: Julie Dunfee Designs Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Our client was looking for a light, bright basement in her 1940's home. She wanted a space to retreat on hot summer days as well as a multi-purpose space for working out, guests to sleep and watch movies with friends. The basement had never been finished and was previously a dark and dingy space to do laundry or to store items. The contractor cut out much of the existing slab to lower the basement by 5" in the entertainment area so that it felt more comfortable. We wanted to make sure that light from the small window and ceiling lighting would travel throughout the space via frosted glass doors, open stairway, light toned floors and enameled wood work. Photography by Spacecrafting Photography Inc.

Introducing the ultimate blend of elegance and versatility: our midnight blue area rug adorned with enchanting Moroccan-inspired motifs. Crafted from 100% premium EnduraStran nylon yarn, this rug is the ideal addition to any room in your home. The machine-loomed construction and low pile height make it a breeze to clean, making it a top choice for households with children and pets. This sophisticated design is brought to life using cutting-edge dyeing techniques, creating a vintage aesthetic with intricate details and intentional distressing. Enrich your living space with a rug that radiates timeless charm and modern durability. Features: --Made of durable commercial-grade premium EnduraStran nylon yarn. --Art and science meld with our PrecisionPoint Custom Yarn Dye System allowing for supreme colorfastness. --U/V fade-, stain-, and fire-resistant; Ideal for high-traffic and family-friendly areas, like living room, family room, den and bedroom. --Serged edges provide long-lasting wear and reduced fraying. ---Synthetic Loc-Bak backing ensures rug lays flat and won’t curl. --CRI Green Label Plus™ Certified for improved indoor air quality. --Family- and pet-friendly low pile is approx. 3/8"H; easy to care for, vacuum and spot clean with water. --Made in the USA; Our rugs are made for you at the time you place your order, so there's no stock sitting in warehouses. Please allow two weeks for manufacture and shipping on regular-sized items (for oversized items, please allow up to 4 weeks).

Virginia Macdonald
Home design - mid-sized traditional home design idea in Toronto

Free ebook, CREATING THE IDEAL KITCHEN Download now → http://bit.ly/idealkitchen This client moved to the area to be near their adult daughter and grandchildren so this new construction is destined to be a place full of happy memories and family entertaining. The goal throughout the home was to incorporate their existing collection of artwork and sculpture with a more contemporary aesthetic. The kitchen, located on the first floor of the 3-story townhouse, shares the floor with a dining space, a living area and a powder room. The kitchen is U-shaped with the sink overlooking the dining room, the cooktop along the exterior wall, with a large clerestory window above, and the bank of tall paneled appliances and storage along the back wall. The European cabinetry is made up of three separate finishes – a light gray glossy lacquer for the base cabinets, a white glossy lacquer for the tall cabinets and a white glass finish for the wall cabinets above the cooktop. The colors are subtly different but provide a bit of texture that works nicely with the finishings chosen for the space. The stainless grooves and toe kick provide additional detail. The long peninsula provides casual seating and is topped with a custom walnut butcher block waterfall countertop that is 6” thick and has built in wine storage on the front side. This detail provides a warm spot to rest your arms and the wine storage provides a repetitive element that is heard again in the pendants and the barstool backs. The countertops are quartz, and appliances include a full size refrigerator and freezer, oven, steam oven, gas cooktop and paneled dishwasher. Cabinetry Design by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Interior Design by: Julie Dunfee Designs Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

CL Studio reimagines a classic Craftsman ranch home in Albany, CA. ✨ The kitchen was transformed with a seamless blend of timeless design and modern function. Key features include a handmade tile backsplash, custom white oak cabinetry, and a re-laid open floor plan ideal for hosting. Thoughtful details like an easily accessible appliance garage keep the space functional and refined. An enlarged French door to the back patio floods the kitchen with natural light and creates effortless indoor-outdoor living.

This family getaway was built with entertaining and guests in mind, so the expansive Bootroom was designed with great flow to be a catch-all space essential for organization of equipment and guests. Integrated ski racks on the porch railings outside provide space for guests to park their gear. Covered entry has a metal floor grate, boot brushes, and boot kicks to clean snow off. Inside, ski racks line the wall beside a work bench, providing the perfect space to store skis, boards, and equipment, as well as the ideal spot to wax up before hitting the slopes. Around the corner are individual wood lockers, labeled for family members and usual guests. A custom-made hand-scraped wormwood bench takes the central display – protected with clear epoxy to preserve the look of holes while providing a waterproof and smooth surface. Wooden boot and glove dryers are positioned at either end of the room, these custom units feature sturdy wooden dowels to hold any equipment, and powerful fans mean that everything will be dry after lunch break. The Bootroom is finished with naturally aged wood wainscoting, rescued from a lumber storage field, and the large rail topper provides a perfect ledge for small items while pulling on freshly dried boots. Large wooden baseboards offer protection for the wall against stray equipment.

the long water feature
Inspiration for a small mid-century modern partial sun backyard water fountain landscape in Seattle.

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations with builders on new construction is a favorite part of my job. I love seeing a house go up from the blueprints to the end of the build. It is always a journey filled with a thousand decisions, some creative on-the-spot thinking and yes, usually a few stressful moments. This Naperville project was a collaboration with a local builder and architect. The Kitchen Studio collaborated by completing the cabinetry design and final layout for the entire home. The kitchen is spacious and opens into the neighboring family room. A 48” Thermador range is centered between two windows, and the sink has a view through a window into the mudroom which is a unique feature. A large island with seating and waterfall countertops creates a beautiful focal point for the room. A bank of refrigeration, including a full-size wine refrigerator completes the picture. The area between the kitchen and dining room houses a second sink and a large walk in pantry. The kitchen features many unique storage elements important to the new homeowners including in-drawer charging stations, a cutlery divider, knife block, microwave drawer, pull out trash, multiple appliance garages, spice pull outs and tray dividers. There’s not much you can’t store in this room! Cabinetry is white shaker inset styling with a gray stain on the island. The back of the island features lap style siding that coordinates with the fireplace in the neighboring family room. Mid-century inspired lighting gives the room a modern vibe. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKBD Builder: Hampton Homes Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com