COA transformed this San Francisco home into a more beautiful, spacious, light-filled and comfortable space by redesigning the back of the house to create an open format kitchen/dining area with modern amenities. Helynn Ospina Photography

Jackie and Sean loved the Algonquin neighborhood they lived in with the peaceful neighborhood and the close proximity to work and school. What they didn’t love was how outdated their home had become. With a cramped kitchen and an unused dining room, they decided a remodel was the perfect solution to their problem. They would be able to continue to live in the area they loved, while at the same time they could have the dream home they envisioned. After a thorough search, Jackie came across Advance Design Studio. She was impressed by all of the positive reviews she saw on the internet and saw herself identifying with all of the project stories she saw on the website. Once they met with designer Scott Christensen and owner Todd Jurs, they knew Advance Design was the right company to make their dreams a reality. The project consisted of four main areas: the kitchen/dining/powder room, the laundry room, the master bathroom, and the kid’s bathroom. They wanted to expand the kitchen into the seldom used dining room and add a large island for hosting parties and family gatherings. They also wanted new hardwood flooring throughout the first level. The laundry room needed to be more functional, and all three bathrooms were in dire need of updating. The closed off kitchen was opened up to create a sweeping space between the new eating area and the much larger kitchen. A handsome dry bar complete with a beverage refrigerator and lighted glass door cabinetry makes an elegant transition across from a peninsula area filled with storage. An additional decorative cabinet lighting up elegant dishware through the mullioned glass sits directly across from the drybar. An expansive island was critical to the kitchen plans. Jackie, Sean and Scott worked closely together to create just the right details for their design. They wanted the island to be functional in addition to being the centerpiece of the room. Added storage for the kid’s school supplies was hidden behind cabinet doors so the children could do their schoolwork right at the island, and a microwave drawer glides open with the touch of a finger hidden inconspicuously within the island space. The easy to care for Cambria Britannica Quartz island top with its sweeping grey and white marble look perched atop hand-carved Craftsman corbels was absolutely what they were hoping for, blending both beauty and function perfectly. Adding a nice contrast to the brightness of the quartz and the white cabinetry, Kodiak - Leather granite countertops were used to balance the light and dark tones of the space. Dura Supreme Classic White painted cabinets grace the perimeter, while Maple Poppy Seed stained cabinets with a beautiful soft grey woodgrain were used in the beverage center and island. The two tones compliment the large space balancing it out nicely creating interest and elegance with the simple Craftsman style full overlay doors. A deep warm Barnwood White Oak flooring was added throughout the lower level. The new floor brings additional contrast to the bright kitchen and provides unity with the now open floorplan as it rolls in to the foyer and family room. Final details like the show-stopping lunar like duo light fixtures complete the space and intermix expertly with crisscross details of the glass door mullions, the island bar seating and even accessories in the space. The small cluttered laundry room needed more space and more storage. With a busy family it seemed to overflow daily and did not have anywhere to hide the families “in and out stuff.” Scott designed the new space with a stackable washer and dryer and much more efficiently organized cabinetry. Doing laundry is now (almost!) a pleasure and keeping everyone’s “stuff” hidden, but readily accessible is now a snap. The master bath was not a place where the couple enjoyed spending time getting ready for their day. The tub almost never was used, so removing it made it possible to build an extra-large shower, replacing the small cramped cube of the previous shower they hated. Clean, horizontal lines softly draw your eye around the space with porcelain tile called Driftwood Sea spray. Full overlay cabinetry in a soft white vanity with double sinks makes getting ready for the day much more convenient for the busy couple. Long floor planks made of porcelain tile mimic real hardwood floors in a soft grey to compliment the shower, but with the ease and care of a tile surface. Cambrian Black Granite counters with a matte finish and under mount porcelain sinks with handsome brushed chrome hardware complete the handsome space. A real bonus in any master bath; a custom built in storage nook was tucked in the corner of the space for linens and heavenly storage. The kid’s bath was in sad shape because it was original to the house. To keep the budget in control, the tub which was in great condition was retained, but focus was on the new large brick style porcelain charcoal tile on the floor, crisp white new Craftsman style cabinetry with pretty furniture details on the corner base, a striking granite top with white under mount porcelain sinks and fresh hardware and faucets. Some beautiful soft grey wood mirrors to match mom and dads were custom sized and placed under new lighting, and 4 hooks were smartly arranged down the wall for kids’ towels. This couple was determined not to move, and made their house their dream home. Not only does their home function greatly now, but Jackie says, “When the neighbors come to visit, they’re asking if they can “steal” the design”! The added functionality, elegance, and open floor plan were exactly what this family needed in order to stay. Advance Design Studio, Joe Nowak

Photo of a contemporary landscaping in San Diego.

This recently built 1,200 sq ft condo had spectacular views but was otherwise in need of character and design. My client, a single man and first time homeowner had excellent taste but wasn't sure where to begin or how to pull things together. We quickly identified a mutual love of mid century modern pieces and created a modern yet industrial inspired space that compliments and enhances his homes stunning panoramic views of downtown. ​ Favourite pieces include the colourful and bold silk area rug that helps ground the otherwise monochromatic space, custom stools that are as comfortable as they are visually appealing with luggage leather seats, several walnut pieces that add warmth and a concrete coffee table for a mix of modern. The final look is clean, fresh and eclectic resulting in the masculine, unique feel my client wanted.

front door photography Focused on creating an inspiring and stress free experience for clients, Emily and her talented rolodex of contractors, architects and consultants take projects of all sizes from dream to reality. Emily personally works one-on-one with each client to first discover how they want their space to feel. She then helps them identify the needs of the space, both aesthetically and functionally. About Emily: Fashion designer turned interior designer, Emily Wallach, fuses West Coast simplicity with East Coast glamour for spaces that are luxurious and liveable. After her successful career in fashion, Emily’s passion for creating stylish, contemporary spaces led her to start her eponymous interior design firm in 2012. Since then, she has brought her design simplicity to fabulous New York apartments, New Jersey manors and commercial hospitality venues. Emily’s refreshing design sensibility results in interiors that evoke a welcoming sense of peace and impeccable taste. Planning an upcoming project? Give us a call now at (646) 320-1561 to get started!

Faced with extensive water damage to their home, the Patel’s turned to Cantoni designer Andrea Petor to infuse new life into their family’s beloved weekend retreat in Montgomery, Texas. Balancing the client’s minimalist wants with their love of hosting, Andrea created a cohesive design to accommodate their frequent guests and large extended family. Beginning with the kitchen remodel, Andrea worked with the Patel’s to identify the best layout for the space, understanding it would be used regularly for entertaining. To maximize storage space, Andrea designed custom floor to ceiling cabinetry finished in high gloss white lacquer. She selected Miele optic white appliances to enhance the sleek design. Andrea had a custom dining table built into the island to provide ample seating and ensure the entire family could enjoy meals together. The kitchen’s monochromatic color palette was carried throughout the interiors allowing the home’s beautiful waterfront views to take center stage. Adding richness and texture to each room, Andrea selected sculptural, modern furnishings to complete the space and bring the Patel’s vision to life.

The original kitchen in this condominium was renovated arising from the need to replace Kitec plumbing. The work triangle remained generally the same, but numerous changes were made to improve the kitchen’s functionality, aesthetics, and lighting. Automation was also introduced. The goal was to design and build a modern contemporary functional kitchen with inspiring colours accented with textured wood features. The functionality was improved with the addition of an under counter microwave, which freed up countertop space. Additional and improved storage was also created by incorporating under cabinet drawers throughout the kitchen, a bar area with open glass shelving above, and open shelving to the right of the seating area. Upper cabinet storage was as well increased with storage above the fridge. Numerous lighting improvements were made including the addition of potlights. This was done by dropping the ceiling in the kitchen, which also created a visual division with the dining area. Automation was introduced as well into the space with HUE under cabinet lighting, and a touch faucet. The under cabinet lights are controlled by the Phillips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. The kitchen features painted Shaker cabinets accented by textured wood shelving. The countertop surfaces are quartz with waterfalls on both sides of the island, which is a focal point. Shapes are also strongly identified in the design with the use of triangular tiles in the backsplash along with rectangular upper cabinets, and appliance doors and drawers. The kitchen is made most unique though with the uplifting use of colour in the cabinets that make this a bright and cheerful space. Aristea Photography

Photos: Mark Jaworski Studios Focused on creating an inspiring and stress free experience for clients, Emily and her talented rolodex of contractors, architects and consultants take projects of all sizes from dream to reality. Emily personally works one-on-one with each client to first discover how they want their space to feel. She then helps them identify the needs of the space, both aesthetically and functionally. About Emily: Fashion designer turned interior designer, Emily Wallach, fuses West Coast simplicity with East Coast glamour for spaces that are luxurious and liveable. After her successful career in fashion, Emily’s passion for creating stylish, contemporary spaces led her to start her eponymous interior design firm in 2012. Since then, she has brought her design simplicity to fabulous New York apartments, New Jersey manors and commercial hospitality venues. Emily’s refreshing design sensibility results in interiors that evoke a welcoming sense of peace and impeccable taste. Planning an upcoming project? Give us a call now at (646) 320-1561 to get started!

A traditional Greek aesthetic home, now transformed to a modern, elegant sanctuary is the perfect pairing with our clients poised & bubbly personality. When we first met Kathie, her first words to us were "I want my house to greet me when I walk in!". And boy does it ever! In starting this project we had to work with some existing pieces, the main one being a fire place mantle designed and made by our client's dear, late friend; additionally the chandelier in the dining room. After working with our client to identify her signature style, she trusted us to give creative freedom over her space. We designed the space with a "Parisian modern" approach, incorporating small renaissance, architectural details, and marrying it with modern furnishings & decor. A soothing pallet with a bold statement took this home to the next level.

Focused on creating an inspiring and stress free experience for clients, Emily and her talented rolodex of contractors, architects and consultants take projects of all sizes from dream to reality. Emily personally works one-on-one with each client to first discover how they want their space to feel. She then helps them identify the needs of the space, both aesthetically and functionally. About Emily: Fashion designer turned interior designer, Emily Wallach, fuses West Coast simplicity with East Coast glamour for spaces that are luxurious and liveable. After her successful career in fashion, Emily’s passion for creating stylish, contemporary spaces led her to start her eponymous interior design firm in 2012. Since then, she has brought her design simplicity to fabulous New York apartments, New Jersey manors and commercial hospitality venues. Emily’s refreshing design sensibility results in interiors that evoke a welcoming sense of peace and impeccable taste. Planning an upcoming project? Give us a call now at (646) 320-1561 to get started!

This recently built 1,200 sq ft condo had spectacular views but was otherwise in need of character and design. My client, a single man and first time homeowner had excellent taste but wasn't sure where to begin or how to pull things together. We quickly identified a mutual love of mid century modern pieces and created a modern yet industrial inspired space that compliments and enhances his homes stunning panoramic views of downtown. ​ Favourite pieces include the colourful and bold silk area rug that helps ground the otherwise monochromatic space, custom stools that are as comfortable as they are visually appealing with luggage leather seats, several walnut pieces that add warmth and a concrete coffee table for a mix of modern. The final look is clean, fresh and eclectic resulting in the masculine, unique feel my client wanted.

This recently built 1,200 sq ft condo had spectacular views but was otherwise in need of character and design. My client, a single man and first time homeowner had excellent taste but wasn't sure where to begin or how to pull things together. We quickly identified a mutual love of mid century modern pieces and created a modern yet industrial inspired space that compliments and enhances his homes stunning panoramic views of downtown. ​ Favourite pieces include the colourful and bold silk area rug that helps ground the otherwise monochromatic space, custom stools that are as comfortable as they are visually appealing with luggage leather seats, several walnut pieces that add warmth and a concrete coffee table for a mix of modern. The final look is clean, fresh and eclectic resulting in the masculine, unique feel my client wanted.

This recently built 1,200 sq ft condo had spectacular views but was otherwise in need of character and design. My client, a single man and first time homeowner had excellent taste but wasn't sure where to begin or how to pull things together. We quickly identified a mutual love of mid century modern pieces and created a modern yet industrial inspired space that compliments and enhances his homes stunning panoramic views of downtown. ​ Favourite pieces include the colourful and bold silk area rug that helps ground the otherwise monochromatic space, custom stools that are as comfortable as they are visually appealing with luggage leather seats, several walnut pieces that add warmth and a concrete coffee table for a mix of modern. The final look is clean, fresh and eclectic resulting in the masculine, unique feel my client wanted.

New to the Pacific Northwest, our recently retired clients had relocated from the Fairbanks area to take advantage of the more moderate climate and improved access to family and resources. They selected a nice home in a desirable location with a large enough lot next to some green space to afford them some breathing room. Taking a less is more approach, the homeowners’ goal was to establish a more neutral pallet with white walls, wood and earthy accents. We kept the budget at the forefront of our conversations, and they took care to make practical decisions, investing strategically in the upgrades to their home. Every decision and change made went a long way toward aligning the style of the home with the values of its new owners. The homeowners identify with their Danish heritage, which they express through their aesthetic and selections. The master bathroom improvements were especially important to the homeowners. We added heated floors and completely reworked the layout and design. It featured a new tub, a custom shower, tile throughout, shower glass, a custom cabinet made by a local cabinet maker and new lights and fixtures.

Design ideas for a small asian backyard stone formal garden in DC Metro.

A traditional Greek aesthetic home, now transformed to a modern, elegant sanctuary is the perfect pairing with our clients poised & bubbly personality. When we first met Kathie, her first words to us were "I want my house to greet me when I walk in!". And boy does it ever! In starting this project we had to work with some existing pieces, the main one being a fire place mantle designed and made by our client's dear, late friend; additionally the chandelier in the dining room. After working with our client to identify her signature style, she trusted us to give creative freedom over her space. We designed the space with a "Parisian modern" approach, incorporating small renaissance, architectural details, and marrying it with modern furnishings & decor. A soothing pallet with a bold statement took this home to the next level.

Design: Christian B. Hedberg of CBH Design Photo: Margot Hartford © 2015 Houzz

Photo by Molly Culver. Light remodel, we added a few feet onto the existing cabinets and painted them this dark blue green. We removed the backsplash, counter and tile floor and replaced them with upgraded materials.

front door photography Focused on creating an inspiring and stress free experience for clients, Emily and her talented rolodex of contractors, architects and consultants take projects of all sizes from dream to reality. Emily personally works one-on-one with each client to first discover how they want their space to feel. She then helps them identify the needs of the space, both aesthetically and functionally. About Emily: Fashion designer turned interior designer, Emily Wallach, fuses West Coast simplicity with East Coast glamour for spaces that are luxurious and liveable. After her successful career in fashion, Emily’s passion for creating stylish, contemporary spaces led her to start her eponymous interior design firm in 2012. Since then, she has brought her design simplicity to fabulous New York apartments, New Jersey manors and commercial hospitality venues. Emily’s refreshing design sensibility results in interiors that evoke a welcoming sense of peace and impeccable taste. Planning an upcoming project? Give us a call now at (646) 320-1561 to get started!