This intimate townhouse garden features a combination of rich, contrasting materials - Jerusalem limestone, New Yangtze limestone from China, cedar, and copper - layered to create a vibrant contemporary garden. Improvements include a lap pool and fountain, terraces, custom security fence and railings, copper wall and lush plantings. Various site constraints were overcome through extensive collaboration with the architect, builder, and contractors. This work included excavation and construction of a swimming pool on the land-locked property and the installation of a specimen Magnolia, requiring the tree to be craned over the residence, a span over 100 feet. Landscape Architecture: Oehme, van Sweden and Associates (ovsla.com) Builder: Pagenstecher Group (pagenstechergroup.com) Photography: John Knowlton/Till Gardens Project completed while working at Oehme, van Sweden

Thomspon Remodeling completed a total renovation of this condo and infused the owner's traditional design aesthetic by updating finishes and improving functionality. A wall was removed to create an open floor plan between the kitchen and family room, two bathrooms were remodeled, a new fireplace surround was added, and the main staircase was updated. Notice the unique tile designs used in the kitchen, fireplace surround, and master bath. The rich, textured brown horizontal tile suits this owner's personal style and is carried throughout the condo. Above the stove, a herringbone inset was added to create a focal point. The guest bathroom features a floating vanity, which gives this traditional space a little bit of a modern edge. The master bathroom has a fabulous tile feature wall above the double vanity. Lighting was carefully considered throughout to create the perfect balance with all the natural light in the main areas. Cool industrial style light fixtures add a pop of interest in the kitchen, entryway, and living room.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This stunning kitchen renovation strikes a balance between modern luxury and timeless design. The heart of the home now features navy blue custom cabinetry with elegant brass hardware, a crisp white quartz countertop island with warm wood base, and statement pendant lighting that adds a touch of glam. A patterned backsplash behind the pro-grade range creates visual interest, while subway tile keeps the space classic and bright. The layout was reimagined to improve functionality and flow, allowing for effortless entertaining and everyday use. Large French doors flood the room with natural light and offer seamless access to the backyard, making this space the perfect hub for family and guests alike. From the sleek stainless appliances to the stylish island seating, every detail was chosen to enhance both beauty and usability.

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

Awesome Norristown PA bi-level home remodel. We gutted the whole first level of this home down to the bare bones. We redesigned the space to an open floorplan. New structural framing, insulation, windows and doors, and all mechanicals were relocated and improved. Lighting! Lighting! Lighting! everywhere and it makes all the difference. Led lighting and smart switches were used for up lighting above cabinetry, task lighting under cabinetry, general room lighting, accent lighting under bar top, and all decorative fixtures as well. The kitchen was designed around a central island with elevated seating that is designed around the new structural columns required to open the whole area. Fabuwood cabinetry in Galaxy Horizon finish make up the perimeter cabinets accented by Galaxy Cobblestone finish used for the island cabinetry. Both cabinetry tones coordinate perfect with the new Luxury vinyl plank flooring in Uptown Chic Forever Friends. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Luxury vinyl is Awesome! It looks great its ultra durable and even water proof as well as less expensive than true hardwood. New stair treads, railings, and posts were installed stained to match by us; giving the steps new life. An accent wall of nickel gap boards was installed on the fireplace wall giving it some interest along with being a great clean look. The recessed niche behind the range, the dry stacked stone tile at the islands seating area, the new tile entry in a herringbone pattern just add to all the great details of this project. The New River White granite countertops are a show stopper as well; not only is it a beautiful stone the installation and seaming is excellent considering the pattern of the stone. I could go on forever we did so much. The clients were terrific and a pleasure to work with. I am glad we were able to be involved in making this dream come true.

This stunning transitional kitchen remodel incorporates a range of upgrades, including a new cooktop, countertops with an extended overhang on the island, a sleek faucet, updated cabinet hardware, and a captivating tile backsplash. To enhance the kitchen's appeal and functionality, we have installed exquisite countertops that serve as both a striking visual element and a durable workspace. The addition of an extended overhang to the island introduces a versatile seating area, perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. This thoughtful design element maximizes the kitchen's space while creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages social interaction. To complete the look, we have carefully selected a sleek Faucet along with cabinet hardware that perfectly complements the overall aesthetic. These stylish elements not only add a touch of sophistication but also improve the accessibility and functionality of the kitchen Last but not least, the tile backsplash serves as a stunning focal point, tying the entire design together. The backsplash adds texture and visual interest, transforming your kitchen into a true work of art. This transitional kitchen remodel is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and design. With its seamless blend of modern and traditional elements, it offers a timeless and inviting space where you can cook, entertain, and create lasting memories.

This stunning kitchen renovation strikes a balance between modern luxury and timeless design. The heart of the home now features navy blue custom cabinetry with elegant brass hardware, a crisp white quartz countertop island with warm wood base, and statement pendant lighting that adds a touch of glam. A patterned backsplash behind the pro-grade range creates visual interest, while subway tile keeps the space classic and bright. The layout was reimagined to improve functionality and flow, allowing for effortless entertaining and everyday use. Large French doors flood the room with natural light and offer seamless access to the backyard, making this space the perfect hub for family and guests alike. From the sleek stainless appliances to the stylish island seating, every detail was chosen to enhance both beauty and usability.

These Excelsior homeowners bought this property primarily for the lakeshore view. All was well until they realized that the floor plan didn’t leave adequate room for a larger kitchen remodel and a dining room. Their first attempt to design a large enough dining addition with another remodeler failed. So, they lived in frustration without the dining room view for years. Fortunately, for all of us, their next-door neighbors had just finished a deck/sauna remodel with Murphy Bros. and gladly made the referral to us. Now they have a 9 x 12 foot dining room addition, with an 8 x 12 foot deck extension off the dining room, all seamlessly integrated into their existing structure. To stay within budget, we re-used the decking to extend the deck off the new addition. We also designed a slanted pergola over the existing deck for added visual interest.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This stunning kitchen renovation strikes a balance between modern luxury and timeless design. The heart of the home now features navy blue custom cabinetry with elegant brass hardware, a crisp white quartz countertop island with warm wood base, and statement pendant lighting that adds a touch of glam. A patterned backsplash behind the pro-grade range creates visual interest, while subway tile keeps the space classic and bright. The layout was reimagined to improve functionality and flow, allowing for effortless entertaining and everyday use. Large French doors flood the room with natural light and offer seamless access to the backyard, making this space the perfect hub for family and guests alike. From the sleek stainless appliances to the stylish island seating, every detail was chosen to enhance both beauty and usability.

These homeowners came to us wanting to upgrade the curb appeal of their home and improve the layout of the interior. They hoped for an entry that would welcome guests to their home both inside and out, while also creating more defined and purposeful space within the home. The main goals of the project were to add a covered wrap around porch, add more windows for natural light, create a formal entry that housed the client’s baby grand piano, and add a home office for the clients to work from home. With a dated exterior and facade that lacked dimension, there was little charm to be had. The front door was hidden from visitors and a lack of windows made the exterior unoriginal. We approached the exterior design pulling inspiration from the farmhouse style, southern porches, and craftsman style homes. Eventually we landed on a design that added numerous windows to the front façade, reminiscent of a farmhouse, and turned a Dutch hipped roof into an extended gable roof, creating a large front porch and adding curb appeal interest. By relocating the entry door to the front of the house and adding a gable accent over this new door, it created a focal point for guests and passersby. In addition to those design elements, we incorporated some exterior shutters rated for our northwest climate that echoed the southern style homes our client loved. A greige paint color (Benjamin Moore Cape May Cobblestone) accented with a white trim (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee) and a black front door, shutters, and window box (Sherwin Williams Black Magic) all work together to create a charming and welcoming façade. On the interior we removed a half wall and coat closet that separated the original cramped entryway from the front room. The front room was a multipurpose space that didn’t have a designated use for the family, it became a catch-all space that was easily cluttered. Through the design process we came up with a plan to split the spaces into 2 rooms, a large open semi-formal entryway and a home office. The semi-formal entryway was intentionally designed to house the homeowner’s baby grand piano – a real showstopper. The flow created by this entryway is welcoming and ushers you into a beautifully curated home. A new office now sits right off the entryway with beautiful French doors, built-in cabinetry, and an abundance of natural light – everything that one dreams of for their home office. The home office looks out to the front porch and front yard as well as the pastural side yard where the children frequently play. The office is an ideal location for a moment of inspiration, reflection, and focus. A warm white paint (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee) combined with the newly installed light oak luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout the home, creating continuity and a neutral canvas. Traditional and schoolhouse style statement light fixtures coordinate with the black door hardware for an added level of contrast. There is one more improvement that made a big difference to this family. In the family room, we added a built-in window seat. This created a cozy nook that is used by all for reading and extra seating. This relatively small improvement had a big impact on how the family uses and enjoys the space.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This stunning kitchen renovation strikes a balance between modern luxury and timeless design. The heart of the home now features navy blue custom cabinetry with elegant brass hardware, a crisp white quartz countertop island with warm wood base, and statement pendant lighting that adds a touch of glam. A patterned backsplash behind the pro-grade range creates visual interest, while subway tile keeps the space classic and bright. The layout was reimagined to improve functionality and flow, allowing for effortless entertaining and everyday use. Large French doors flood the room with natural light and offer seamless access to the backyard, making this space the perfect hub for family and guests alike. From the sleek stainless appliances to the stylish island seating, every detail was chosen to enhance both beauty and usability.

This large kitchen renovation features a modern two-toned design that blends clean finishes with thoughtful architectural updates. The space was opened to the adjacent living room by cutting out a large window opening in the divider wall, creating better flow, improved sightlines, and a more connected open-concept layout. The kitchen showcases white perimeter cabinetry paired with a two-toned tile backsplash, adding contrast and visual interest while maintaining a bright, cohesive look. Marble countertops elevate the space with natural movement and timeless appeal. A large center island serves as the focal point of the kitchen, finished in gray cabinetry to complement the surrounding white cabinets while providing ample prep space, storage, and seating. Pendant lighting above the island adds warmth and modern character while enhancing functionality. This renovation balances style and practicality, resulting in a spacious, inviting kitchen designed for both everyday use and entertaining.

These Excelsior homeowners bought this property primarily for the lakeshore view. All was well until they realized that the floor plan didn’t leave adequate room for a larger kitchen remodel and a dining room. Their first attempt to design a large enough dining addition with another remodeler failed. So, they lived in frustration without the dining room view for years. Fortunately, for all of us, their next-door neighbors had just finished a deck/sauna remodel with Murphy Bros. and gladly made the referral to us. Now they have a 9 x 12 foot dining room addition, with an 8 x 12 foot deck extension off the dining room, all seamlessly integrated into their existing structure. To stay within budget, we re-used the decking to extend the deck off the new addition. We also designed a slanted pergola over the existing deck for added visual interest.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.