Photography by Carlos Esteva. When this private client, a married couple, first approached Álvarez-Díaz & Villalón to build ‘the house of their dreams’ on the grounds of their sprawling family estate, the first challenge was to identify the exact location that would maximize the positive aspects of the topography while affording the most gracious views. Propped up on scaffolding, juggling digital cameras and folding ladders, the design team photographed the property from hundreds of angles before the ideal site was selected. Once the site was selected, construction could begin. The building’s foundation was raised slightly off the ground to disperse geothermal heat. In addition, the designers studied daily sunlight patterns and positioned the structure accordingly in order to warm the swimming pool during the cooler morning hours and illuminate the principal living quarters during the late afternoon. Finally, the main house was designed with functional balconies on all sides: each balcony meticulously planned ~ and precisely positioned ~ to both optimize wind flow and frame the property’s most breath-taking views. Stylistically, the goal was to create an authentic Spanish hacienda. Following Old World tradition, the house was anchored around a centralized interior patio in the Moorish style: enclosed on three sides ~ yet open on the fourth (similar to the Alcázar of Seville) ~ to reveal a reflecting pool ~ and mirror the water motif of the home’s magnificent marble fountain. A bell tower, horseshoe arches, a colonnaded,vineyard-style patio, and ornamental Moorish mosaic tilework (“azulejos”) completed this picturesque portrait of a faraway fantasy world of castles, chivalry, and swordsplay, reminiscent of Medieval Spain. Shortly after completion, this showcase home was showcased on the TVE Spanish television series Spaniards Around The World (Españoles Alrededor Del Mundo) as a prime example of authentic Spanish architecture designed outside the peninsula. Not surprising. After all, the story of a fairy-tale retreat as magical as this one deserves a happy ending.

The white kitchen opens up to this colorful sitting room with beautiful views of the screen porch over the sofa & the dining room to the left. Raspberry swivel chairs sit in front of a media cabinet & tv. The configuration creates an inviting conversational area for tv watching after dinner or during your morning coffee.

Photography by Carlos Esteva. When this private client, a married couple, first approached Álvarez-Díaz & Villalón to build ‘the house of their dreams’ on the grounds of their sprawling family estate, the first challenge was to identify the exact location that would maximize the positive aspects of the topography while affording the most gracious views. Propped up on scaffolding, juggling digital cameras and folding ladders, the design team photographed the property from hundreds of angles before the ideal site was selected. Once the site was selected, construction could begin. The building’s foundation was raised slightly off the ground to disperse geothermal heat. In addition, the designers studied daily sunlight patterns and positioned the structure accordingly in order to warm the swimming pool during the cooler morning hours and illuminate the principal living quarters during the late afternoon. Finally, the main house was designed with functional balconies on all sides: each balcony meticulously planned ~ and precisely positioned ~ to both optimize wind flow and frame the property’s most breath-taking views. Stylistically, the goal was to create an authentic Spanish hacienda. Following Old World tradition, the house was anchored around a centralized interior patio in the Moorish style: enclosed on three sides ~ yet open on the fourth (similar to the Alcázar of Seville) ~ to reveal a reflecting pool ~ and mirror the water motif of the home’s magnificent marble fountain. A bell tower, horseshoe arches, a colonnaded,vineyard-style patio, and ornamental Moorish mosaic tilework (“azulejos”) completed this picturesque portrait of a faraway fantasy world of castles, chivalry, and swordsplay, reminiscent of Medieval Spain. Shortly after completion, this showcase home was showcased on the TVE Spanish television series Spaniards Around The World (Españoles Alrededor Del Mundo) as a prime example of authentic Spanish architecture designed outside the peninsula. Not surprising. After all, the story of a fairy-tale retreat as magical as this one deserves a happy ending.

Monarch Fumo European Oak pre-finished with Bona Traffic Naturale by Integrity Floors. Find a Bona Certified Craftsman for your flooring project: https://us.bona.com/bcc-landing.html

The secret to creating a room within a room is a balanced approach to scale and proportion. The lounge has the class and style of a Paris apartment with the softness and comfort of a family room. Soft colours and textures, natural objects and fun patterns make this area an inviting place to curl up. The high ceiling, with it's sky inspired colour, allows for a colourful affect without being overwhelming. Keeping the elements calm, neutral and tactile enables clients to relax and focus on the their treatment.

Example of a trendy black tile, gray tile, white tile and pebble tile black floor bathroom design in San Francisco with flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink, marble countertops and white countertops

Dining room with textured wallpaper, tufted dining room chairs and a wrought iron chandelier light http://www.mrobinsonphoto.com/

Photography by Carlos Esteva. When this private client, a married couple, first approached Álvarez-Díaz & Villalón to build ‘the house of their dreams’ on the grounds of their sprawling family estate, the first challenge was to identify the exact location that would maximize the positive aspects of the topography while affording the most gracious views. Propped up on scaffolding, juggling digital cameras and folding ladders, the design team photographed the property from hundreds of angles before the ideal site was selected. Once the site was selected, construction could begin. The building’s foundation was raised slightly off the ground to disperse geothermal heat. In addition, the designers studied daily sunlight patterns and positioned the structure accordingly in order to warm the swimming pool during the cooler morning hours and illuminate the principal living quarters during the late afternoon. Finally, the main house was designed with functional balconies on all sides: each balcony meticulously planned ~ and precisely positioned ~ to both optimize wind flow and frame the property’s most breath-taking views. Stylistically, the goal was to create an authentic Spanish hacienda. Following Old World tradition, the house was anchored around a centralized interior patio in the Moorish style: enclosed on three sides ~ yet open on the fourth (similar to the Alcázar of Seville) ~ to reveal a reflecting pool ~ and mirror the water motif of the home’s magnificent marble fountain. A bell tower, horseshoe arches, a colonnaded,vineyard-style patio, and ornamental Moorish mosaic tilework (“azulejos”) completed this picturesque portrait of a faraway fantasy world of castles, chivalry, and swordsplay, reminiscent of Medieval Spain. Shortly after completion, this showcase home was showcased on the TVE Spanish television series Spaniards Around The World (Españoles Alrededor Del Mundo) as a prime example of authentic Spanish architecture designed outside the peninsula. Not surprising. After all, the story of a fairy-tale retreat as magical as this one deserves a happy ending.

Two Birds Photography
Kids' room - transitional kids' room idea in Chicago

The new owners were looking forward to living in their new home with an open floor plan, tall vaulted ceilings, and great views. It featured a large Great Room with two big French Doors separating the Dining Room from the Master Bedroom. But after only a few months they identified a major design flaw: Each of the French Doors had ten glass windows with two large windows above each door. (Check out our before and after designs, traffic flow diagrams and photos of this project.) Glass windows and doors allowed sound and light from guests or the TV in the great room to easily sneak into the bedroom. With unique work and sleep schedules (he’s a pilot, she’s a registered nurse) this design wasn’t working. Then there was a traffic flow design flaw: The Master Bedroom had a second entrance from a hallway. To get into the bedroom from the hallway you needed to walk down another claustrophobic hallway. To get from the Master Bedroom to the Master Bath begin at the most remote corner of the bedroom and down a hallway between two closets. Once inside the bath, a huge triangular Jacuzzi dominating the space. So, from a privacy and traffic flow perspective, this home had some major design issues. When Craig Weber first met with the owners, he listened to their ideas and concerns. The owners trusted Craig to come up with the most efficient and most effective solution to this design dilemma. He offered a solution that resolved the bed-bath traffic flow problem, offered some bedroom room privacy, and updated the bath. First, the two French Doors and windows were removed. A new wall was built with sound-absorbing materials, making the Great Room and Dining Room more comfortable spaces for entertaining while creating the bedroom privacy the owners craved. Solving the Bedroom/Bath traffic flow problem began with removing the two existing closets. The bath door was relocated next to the hall entrance, and then a new walk-in closet was added adjacent to the hallway entrance. The solution offered easy access to and from the bath, closet and hallway without a hint of claustrophobia. The Master Bath underwent a major transformation designed for convenience and comfort – especially during long, cold Minnesota winters. Most everything from the former bath was torn out, beginning with the giant Jacuzzi. A new bathtub that is wider and deeper than the standard size was installed with brushed Nickel fixtures. It’s the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine and candles. Warm floors are a Minnesota “must have.” The bath’s new ceramic floor features in-floor electric heat. Getting in and out of the tub is easy and comfortable. The new walk-in shower again features in-floor heating and a place to sit. The most interesting feature of this shower may the custom ceramic tile installed with unique patterns. A new vanity Cambria Bradshaw countertops features two under-hung ceramic sinks with matching brushed Nickel fixtures. Tall ceilings and three glass windows near the ceiling flood the room with natural light. A new energy-efficient window frames an ornamental stained glass window created by the owner’s father – a great personal touch. A quiet place to sleep. A private dining room for entertaining. A Master Bath to die for. And easy traffic flow. The owners couldn’t have been more delighted with the outcome. And Lilly, their cat, loves it too.

This open floor plan family room for a family of four—two adults and two children was a dream to design. I wanted to create harmony and unity in the space bringing the outdoors in. My clients wanted a space that they could, lounge, watch TV, play board games and entertain guest in. They had two requests: one—comfortable and two—inviting. They are a family that loves sports and spending time with each other. One of the challenges I tackled first was the 22 feet ceiling height and wall of windows. I decided to give this room a Contemporary Rustic Style. Using scale and proportion to identify the inadequacy between the height of the built-in and fireplace in comparison to the wall height was the next thing to tackle. Creating a focal point in the room created balance in the room. The addition of the reclaimed wood on the wall and furniture helped achieve harmony and unity between the elements in the room combined makes a balanced, harmonious complete space. Bringing the outdoors in and using repetition of design elements like color throughout the room, texture in the accent pillows, rug, furniture and accessories and shape and form was how I achieved harmony. I gave my clients a space to entertain, lounge, and have fun in that reflected their lifestyle. Photography by Haigwood Studios

Mid-sized elegant formal and enclosed living room photo with red walls, no fireplace and no tv

The couple each had their own wish lists. Hers was focused on aesthetics and was very clear: a contrasting combo of dark and crisp-white tile along with warm wood, soft bronze plumbing finishes, and an elegant soaking tub. His list was all about the shower. He wanted to match the experience of a luxury hotel shower. Design objectives: -Open up the space and omit heavy millwork details -Furniture-style vanity in a warm wood finish -Classic neutral palette -Ample storage for toiletries and towels -Luxurious modern technology, especially in the shower THE REMODEL “I’m not good at coming up with ideas,” the homeowner focused on the shower told us. “I like it when someone taps into my idea and gives me the options of what I’m looking for. That’s what Diana did for me and the shower while making my wife’s clear vision for everything else happen.” Once the goals were clear, Diana identified the project’s challenges and solutions so the Drury Design installation team could make the remodel a reality. Design challenges: -Expand and open up the shower in a way that lets in more light -Continue crown molding from the rest of the home – solve for how this could work around the shower -More storage solutions in the same space -Create an elegant, streamlined look that unifies all of the new elements Design solutions: -Adding a soffit above the shower area allows crown molding to flow continuously -Large Robern medicine cabinets offer convenient eye-level storage while freeing up vanity space. The mirrors on both sides of the inner medicine cabinet make them bright and sleek without having to be lit. -Open elegance – spacious tone and feel created by free-standing tub highlighted by a large wall mirror and oversized sconces -White quartz with black and bronze veining ties all the materials together -Warm, contrasting character of walnut adds a nice infusion of nature into the spa-like space THE RENEWED SPACE This elegant bathroom is all about symmetry and well-thought-out details. A classic, spa-like appeal emanates from simple beveled subway tile, herringbone patterns in the floor and shower niches, and the gorgeous walnut vanity. The result is a beautiful bathroom that checks all the boxes from the homeowners’ original wish lists.

Example of a transitional living room design in Singapore

The couple each had their own wish lists. Hers was focused on aesthetics and was very clear: a contrasting combo of dark and crisp-white tile along with warm wood, soft bronze plumbing finishes, and an elegant soaking tub. His list was all about the shower. He wanted to match the experience of a luxury hotel shower. Design objectives: -Open up the space and omit heavy millwork details -Furniture-style vanity in a warm wood finish -Classic neutral palette -Ample storage for toiletries and towels -Luxurious modern technology, especially in the shower THE REMODEL “I’m not good at coming up with ideas,” the homeowner focused on the shower told us. “I like it when someone taps into my idea and gives me the options of what I’m looking for. That’s what Diana did for me and the shower while making my wife’s clear vision for everything else happen.” Once the goals were clear, Diana identified the project’s challenges and solutions so the Drury Design installation team could make the remodel a reality. Design challenges: -Expand and open up the shower in a way that lets in more light -Continue crown molding from the rest of the home – solve for how this could work around the shower -More storage solutions in the same space -Create an elegant, streamlined look that unifies all of the new elements Design solutions: -Adding a soffit above the shower area allows crown molding to flow continuously -Large Robern medicine cabinets offer convenient eye-level storage while freeing up vanity space. The mirrors on both sides of the inner medicine cabinet make them bright and sleek without having to be lit. -Open elegance – spacious tone and feel created by free-standing tub highlighted by a large wall mirror and oversized sconces -White quartz with black and bronze veining ties all the materials together -Warm, contrasting character of walnut adds a nice infusion of nature into the spa-like space THE RENEWED SPACE This elegant bathroom is all about symmetry and well-thought-out details. A classic, spa-like appeal emanates from simple beveled subway tile, herringbone patterns in the floor and shower niches, and the gorgeous walnut vanity. The result is a beautiful bathroom that checks all the boxes from the homeowners’ original wish lists.

The couple each had their own wish lists. Hers was focused on aesthetics and was very clear: a contrasting combo of dark and crisp-white tile along with warm wood, soft bronze plumbing finishes, and an elegant soaking tub. His list was all about the shower. He wanted to match the experience of a luxury hotel shower. Design objectives: -Open up the space and omit heavy millwork details -Furniture-style vanity in a warm wood finish -Classic neutral palette -Ample storage for toiletries and towels -Luxurious modern technology, especially in the shower THE REMODEL “I’m not good at coming up with ideas,” the homeowner focused on the shower told us. “I like it when someone taps into my idea and gives me the options of what I’m looking for. That’s what Diana did for me and the shower while making my wife’s clear vision for everything else happen.” Once the goals were clear, Diana identified the project’s challenges and solutions so the Drury Design installation team could make the remodel a reality. Design challenges: -Expand and open up the shower in a way that lets in more light -Continue crown molding from the rest of the home – solve for how this could work around the shower -More storage solutions in the same space -Create an elegant, streamlined look that unifies all of the new elements Design solutions: -Adding a soffit above the shower area allows crown molding to flow continuously -Large Robern medicine cabinets offer convenient eye-level storage while freeing up vanity space. The mirrors on both sides of the inner medicine cabinet make them bright and sleek without having to be lit. -Open elegance – spacious tone and feel created by free-standing tub highlighted by a large wall mirror and oversized sconces -White quartz with black and bronze veining ties all the materials together -Warm, contrasting character of walnut adds a nice infusion of nature into the spa-like space THE RENEWED SPACE This elegant bathroom is all about symmetry and well-thought-out details. A classic, spa-like appeal emanates from simple beveled subway tile, herringbone patterns in the floor and shower niches, and the gorgeous walnut vanity. The result is a beautiful bathroom that checks all the boxes from the homeowners’ original wish lists.

The couple each had their own wish lists. Hers was focused on aesthetics and was very clear: a contrasting combo of dark and crisp-white tile along with warm wood, soft bronze plumbing finishes, and an elegant soaking tub. His list was all about the shower. He wanted to match the experience of a luxury hotel shower. Design objectives: -Open up the space and omit heavy millwork details -Furniture-style vanity in a warm wood finish -Classic neutral palette -Ample storage for toiletries and towels -Luxurious modern technology, especially in the shower THE REMODEL “I’m not good at coming up with ideas,” the homeowner focused on the shower told us. “I like it when someone taps into my idea and gives me the options of what I’m looking for. That’s what Diana did for me and the shower while making my wife’s clear vision for everything else happen.” Once the goals were clear, Diana identified the project’s challenges and solutions so the Drury Design installation team could make the remodel a reality. Design challenges: -Expand and open up the shower in a way that lets in more light -Continue crown molding from the rest of the home – solve for how this could work around the shower -More storage solutions in the same space -Create an elegant, streamlined look that unifies all of the new elements Design solutions: -Adding a soffit above the shower area allows crown molding to flow continuously -Large Robern medicine cabinets offer convenient eye-level storage while freeing up vanity space. The mirrors on both sides of the inner medicine cabinet make them bright and sleek without having to be lit. -Open elegance – spacious tone and feel created by free-standing tub highlighted by a large wall mirror and oversized sconces -White quartz with black and bronze veining ties all the materials together -Warm, contrasting character of walnut adds a nice infusion of nature into the spa-like space THE RENEWED SPACE This elegant bathroom is all about symmetry and well-thought-out details. A classic, spa-like appeal emanates from simple beveled subway tile, herringbone patterns in the floor and shower niches, and the gorgeous walnut vanity. The result is a beautiful bathroom that checks all the boxes from the homeowners’ original wish lists.

The couple each had their own wish lists. Hers was focused on aesthetics and was very clear: a contrasting combo of dark and crisp-white tile along with warm wood, soft bronze plumbing finishes, and an elegant soaking tub. His list was all about the shower. He wanted to match the experience of a luxury hotel shower. Design objectives: -Open up the space and omit heavy millwork details -Furniture-style vanity in a warm wood finish -Classic neutral palette -Ample storage for toiletries and towels -Luxurious modern technology, especially in the shower THE REMODEL “I’m not good at coming up with ideas,” the homeowner focused on the shower told us. “I like it when someone taps into my idea and gives me the options of what I’m looking for. That’s what Diana did for me and the shower while making my wife’s clear vision for everything else happen.” Once the goals were clear, Diana identified the project’s challenges and solutions so the Drury Design installation team could make the remodel a reality. Design challenges: -Expand and open up the shower in a way that lets in more light -Continue crown molding from the rest of the home – solve for how this could work around the shower -More storage solutions in the same space -Create an elegant, streamlined look that unifies all of the new elements Design solutions: -Adding a soffit above the shower area allows crown molding to flow continuously -Large Robern medicine cabinets offer convenient eye-level storage while freeing up vanity space. The mirrors on both sides of the inner medicine cabinet make them bright and sleek without having to be lit. -Open elegance – spacious tone and feel created by free-standing tub highlighted by a large wall mirror and oversized sconces -White quartz with black and bronze veining ties all the materials together -Warm, contrasting character of walnut adds a nice infusion of nature into the spa-like space THE RENEWED SPACE This elegant bathroom is all about symmetry and well-thought-out details. A classic, spa-like appeal emanates from simple beveled subway tile, herringbone patterns in the floor and shower niches, and the gorgeous walnut vanity. The result is a beautiful bathroom that checks all the boxes from the homeowners’ original wish lists.

The couple each had their own wish lists. Hers was focused on aesthetics and was very clear: a contrasting combo of dark and crisp-white tile along with warm wood, soft bronze plumbing finishes, and an elegant soaking tub. His list was all about the shower. He wanted to match the experience of a luxury hotel shower. Design objectives: -Open up the space and omit heavy millwork details -Furniture-style vanity in a warm wood finish -Classic neutral palette -Ample storage for toiletries and towels -Luxurious modern technology, especially in the shower THE REMODEL “I’m not good at coming up with ideas,” the homeowner focused on the shower told us. “I like it when someone taps into my idea and gives me the options of what I’m looking for. That’s what Diana did for me and the shower while making my wife’s clear vision for everything else happen.” Once the goals were clear, Diana identified the project’s challenges and solutions so the Drury Design installation team could make the remodel a reality. Design challenges: -Expand and open up the shower in a way that lets in more light -Continue crown molding from the rest of the home – solve for how this could work around the shower -More storage solutions in the same space -Create an elegant, streamlined look that unifies all of the new elements Design solutions: -Adding a soffit above the shower area allows crown molding to flow continuously -Large Robern medicine cabinets offer convenient eye-level storage while freeing up vanity space. The mirrors on both sides of the inner medicine cabinet make them bright and sleek without having to be lit. -Open elegance – spacious tone and feel created by free-standing tub highlighted by a large wall mirror and oversized sconces -White quartz with black and bronze veining ties all the materials together -Warm, contrasting character of walnut adds a nice infusion of nature into the spa-like space THE RENEWED SPACE This elegant bathroom is all about symmetry and well-thought-out details. A classic, spa-like appeal emanates from simple beveled subway tile, herringbone patterns in the floor and shower niches, and the gorgeous walnut vanity. The result is a beautiful bathroom that checks all the boxes from the homeowners’ original wish lists.