In its 34th consecutive year hosting the Street of Dreams, the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland decided to do something different. They went urban – into the Pearl District. Each year designers clamor for the opportunity to design and style a home in the Street of Dreams. Apparently the allure of designing in contemporary penthouses with cascading views was irresistible to many, because the HBA experienced record interest from the design community at large in 2009. It was an honor to be one of seven designers selected. “The Luster of the Pearl” combined the allure of clean lines and redefined traditional silhouettes with texture and opulence. The color palette was fashion-inspired with unexpected color combinations like smoky violet and tiger-eye gold backed with metallic and warm neutrals. Our design included cosmetic reconstruction of the fireplace, mosaic tile improvements to the kitchen, artistic custom wall finishes and introduced new materials to the Portland market. The process was a whirlwind of early mornings, late nights and weekends. “With an extremely short timeline with large demands, this Street of Dreams challenged me in extraordinary ways that made me a better project manager, communicator, designer and partner to my vendors.” This project won the People’s Choice Award for Best Master Suite at the Northwest Natural 2009 Street of Dreams. For more about Angela Todd Studios, click here: https://www.angelatoddstudios.com/

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.

In its 34th consecutive year hosting the Street of Dreams, the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland decided to do something different. They went urban – into the Pearl District. Each year designers clamor for the opportunity to design and style a home in the Street of Dreams. Apparently the allure of designing in contemporary penthouses with cascading views was irresistible to many, because the HBA experienced record interest from the design community at large in 2009. It was an honor to be one of seven designers selected. “The Luster of the Pearl” combined the allure of clean lines and redefined traditional silhouettes with texture and opulence. The color palette was fashion-inspired with unexpected color combinations like smoky violet and tiger-eye gold backed with metallic and warm neutrals. Our design included cosmetic reconstruction of the fireplace, mosaic tile improvements to the kitchen, artistic custom wall finishes and introduced new materials to the Portland market. The process was a whirlwind of early mornings, late nights and weekends. “With an extremely short timeline with large demands, this Street of Dreams challenged me in extraordinary ways that made me a better project manager, communicator, designer and partner to my vendors.” This project won the People’s Choice Award for Best Master Suite at the Northwest Natural 2009 Street of Dreams. For more about Angela Todd Studios, click here: https://www.angelatoddstudios.com/

In its 34th consecutive year hosting the Street of Dreams, the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland decided to do something different. They went urban – into the Pearl District. Each year designers clamor for the opportunity to design and style a home in the Street of Dreams. Apparently the allure of designing in contemporary penthouses with cascading views was irresistible to many, because the HBA experienced record interest from the design community at large in 2009. It was an honor to be one of seven designers selected. “The Luster of the Pearl” combined the allure of clean lines and redefined traditional silhouettes with texture and opulence. The color palette was fashion-inspired with unexpected color combinations like smoky violet and tiger-eye gold backed with metallic and warm neutrals. Our design included cosmetic reconstruction of the fireplace, mosaic tile improvements to the kitchen, artistic custom wall finishes and introduced new materials to the Portland market. The process was a whirlwind of early mornings, late nights and weekends. “With an extremely short timeline with large demands, this Street of Dreams challenged me in extraordinary ways that made me a better project manager, communicator, designer and partner to my vendors.” This project won the People’s Choice Award for Best Master Suite at the Northwest Natural 2009 Street of Dreams. For more about Angela Todd Studios, click here: https://www.angelatoddstudios.com/

CAP Carpet & Flooring is the leading provider of flooring & area rugs in the Twin Cities. CAP Carpet & Flooring is a locally owned and operated company, and we pride ourselves on helping our customers feel welcome from the moment they walk in the door. We are your neighbors. We work and live in your community and understand your needs. You can expect the very best personal service on every visit to CAP Carpet & Flooring and value and warranties on every flooring purchase. Our design team has worked with homeowners, contractors and builders who expect the best. With over 30 years combined experience in the design industry, Angela, Sandy, Sunnie,Maria, Caryn and Megan will be able to help whether you are in the process of building, remodeling, or re-doing. Our design team prides itself on being well versed and knowledgeable on all the up to date products and trends in the floor covering industry as well as countertops, paint and window treatments. Their passion and knowledge is abundant, and we're confident you'll be nothing short of impressed with their expertise and professionalism. When you love your job, it shows: the enthusiasm and energy our design team has harnessed will bring out the best in your project. Make CAP Carpet & Flooring your first stop when considering any type of home improvement project- we are happy to help you every single step of the way.

This thoughtfully designed Davis backyard blends comfort, style, and functionality. The curved raised concrete patio sets the stage for future lounging, soon to be furnished with inviting outdoor sofas and a firepit. Nearby, a gravel area is reserved for an outdoor dining table—perfect for alfresco meals under the trees. A flowing gravel pathway lined with honeycomb pavers ensures stable footing as you move through the space, guiding you around the entire garden with ease. Off the main path, stepping pavers invite you to meander through a growing meadow toward a future destination: a peaceful sitting area where an Adirondack chair will offer a quiet spot to unwind. Practical improvements include a handsome new wood fence that screens the AC unit, and a clean-lined gate that conceals the newly paved side yard—transforming previously cluttered views into moments of calm and order. The landscape is designed to evolve beautifully over time, with layers of texture and movement adding depth and natural interest throughout the seasons.

Let me walk you through how this unique powder room layout was transformed into a charming space filled with vintage charm: First, I took a good look at the layout of the powder room to see what I was working with. I wanted to keep any special features while making improvements where needed. Next, I added vintage-inspired fixtures like a pedestal sink, faucet with exposed drain (key detail) along with beautiful lighting to give the space that old hotel charm. I made sure to choose pieces with intricate details and finishes that matched the vintage vibe. Then, I picked out some statement wallpaper with bold, vintage patterns to really make the room pop. Think damask, floral, or geometric designs in rich colours that transport you back in time; hello William Morris. Of course, no vintage-inspired space is complete without antique accessories. I added mirrors, sconces, and artwork with ornate frames and unique details to enhance the room's vintage charm. To add warmth and texture, I chose luxurious textiles like hand towels with interesting detail. These soft, plush fabrics really make the space feel cozy and inviting. For lighting, I installed vintage-inspired fixtures such as a gun metal pendant light along with sophisticated sconces topped with delicate cream shades to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I made sure they had dimmable bulbs so you can adjust the lighting to suit your mood. To enhance the vintage charm even further, I added architectural details like wainscoting, shiplap and crown molding. These details really elevate the space and give it that old-world feel. I also incorporated unique artifacts and vintage finds, like cowbells and vintage signage, to add character and interest to the room. These items were perfect for displaying in our cabinet as decorative accents. Finally, I upgraded the hardware with vintage-inspired designs to complement the overall aesthetic of the space. I chose pieces with modern detailing and aged finishes for an authentic vintage look. And there you have it! I was able to transform a unique powder room layout into a charming space reminiscent of an old hotel.

Courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden PlantFinder clover / Trifolium repens

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Our client's kitchen was in need of a new and refreshing feel. We wanted to open up the kitchen and dining room, and offer a more inviting and cohesive set-up. We opted for a neutral color palette of dark grays, whites, and blues. A unique hexagon mosaic backsplash adds depth and interest, especially as it contrasts against the thunderstorm gray cabinets. Rustic wooden display shelves add extra surface space and warmth, while complementing the gold hardware and light fixtures. We were able to fit in a simple yet chic dining area, which is incorporated perfectly just outside of the cooking area. This new & improved set-up is perfect for entertaining and bringing the whole party together. Lastly, we designed a subtle, yet elegant mudroom. With cabinets & bench seating that match the dark gray cabinets of the kitchen, these two areas merge effortlessly and ensure one cohesive design throughout. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, with an emphasis on the North Side and North Shore. You'll find their work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Wilmette, and all the way up to Lake Forest. For more about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/portfolio/luxury-open-concept-kitchen-remodel/#kitchen-remodeling

Our Carmel design-build studio was tasked with organizing our client’s basement and main floor to improve functionality and create spaces for entertaining. In the basement, the goal was to include a simple dry bar, theater area, mingling or lounge area, playroom, and gym space with the vibe of a swanky lounge with a moody color scheme. In the large theater area, a U-shaped sectional with a sofa table and bar stools with a deep blue, gold, white, and wood theme create a sophisticated appeal. The addition of a perpendicular wall for the new bar created a nook for a long banquette. With a couple of elegant cocktail tables and chairs, it demarcates the lounge area. Sliding metal doors, chunky picture ledges, architectural accent walls, and artsy wall sconces add a pop of fun. On the main floor, a unique feature fireplace creates architectural interest. The traditional painted surround was removed, and dark large format tile was added to the entire chase, as well as rustic iron brackets and wood mantel. The moldings behind the TV console create a dramatic dimensional feature, and a built-in bench along the back window adds extra seating and offers storage space to tuck away the toys. In the office, a beautiful feature wall was installed to balance the built-ins on the other side. The powder room also received a fun facelift, giving it character and glitz. --- Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/carmel-indiana-posh-home-remodel

Our Carmel design-build studio was tasked with organizing our client’s basement and main floor to improve functionality and create spaces for entertaining. In the basement, the goal was to include a simple dry bar, theater area, mingling or lounge area, playroom, and gym space with the vibe of a swanky lounge with a moody color scheme. In the large theater area, a U-shaped sectional with a sofa table and bar stools with a deep blue, gold, white, and wood theme create a sophisticated appeal. The addition of a perpendicular wall for the new bar created a nook for a long banquette. With a couple of elegant cocktail tables and chairs, it demarcates the lounge area. Sliding metal doors, chunky picture ledges, architectural accent walls, and artsy wall sconces add a pop of fun. On the main floor, a unique feature fireplace creates architectural interest. The traditional painted surround was removed, and dark large format tile was added to the entire chase, as well as rustic iron brackets and wood mantel. The moldings behind the TV console create a dramatic dimensional feature, and a built-in bench along the back window adds extra seating and offers storage space to tuck away the toys. In the office, a beautiful feature wall was installed to balance the built-ins on the other side. The powder room also received a fun facelift, giving it character and glitz. --- Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/carmel-indiana-posh-home-remodel

Great Room — Project Description (Bolton, CT) The Great Room underwent a full architectural and aesthetic transformation, turning a previously plain wall with an oversized brick fireplace and small flanking cabinets into a refined, cohesive focal point that anchors the entire first floor. Architectural Enhancements New crown molding installed throughout the 2-story Great Room, Foyer, and adjoining Dining Room, introducing scale, proportion, and visual continuity across all interconnected spaces. A completely redesigned feature wall was created in place of the bare two-story expanse. Custom millwork, vertical and horizontal panel molding, and carefully balanced proportions now draw the eye upward and bring harmony to the room’s tall volume. Custom Built-Ins & Lighting The previous shallow cabinets were replaced with full-height built-ins offering improved storage, display niches, and symmetrical framing around the fireplace. Integrated sconce lighting within recessed picture-frame molding adds architectural interest and warm illumination, enhancing the room’s depth and ambiance. Fireplace Redesign The original brick fireplace was removed and replaced with a sleek porcelain slab surround and a redesigned mantel that now complements the updated millwork. The hearth was rebuilt with polished black stone, creating contrast and a modernized, high-end aesthetic. Lowering the mantel corrected the previously disproportionate composition and improved the viewing angle of the TV, creating a comfortable and ergonomic media experience. Cohesive Color & Finish Palette The new two-story accent wall color was selected to match the cabinetry finish in the renovated kitchen, visually connecting the spaces and strengthening the whole-house design language. Hardwood floors were refinished, restoring natural warmth and tying together the crisp white millwork and the soft blue-green accent panels.

A young growing family purchased a great home in Chicago’s West Bucktown, right by Logan Square. It had good bones. The basement had been redone at some point, but it was due for another refresh. It made sense to plan a mindful remodel that would acommodate life as the kids got older. “A nice place to just hang out” is what the owners told us they wanted. “You want your kids to want to be in your house. When friends are over, you want them to have a nice space to go to and enjoy.” Design Objectives: Level up the style to suit this young family Add bar area, desk, and plenty of storage Include dramatic linear fireplace Plan for new sectional Improve overall lighting THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Awkward corner fireplace creates a challenge laying out furniture No storage for kids’ toys and games Existing space was missing the wow factor – it needs some drama Update the lighting scheme Design Solutions: Remove the existing corner fireplace and dated mantle, replace with sleek linear fireplace Add tile to both fireplace wall and tv wall for interest and drama Include open shelving for storage and display Create bar area, ample storage, and desk area THE RENEWED SPACE The homeowners love their renewed basement. It’s truly a welcoming, functional space. They can enjoy it together as a family, and it also serves as a peaceful retreat for the parents once the kids are tucked in for the night.

In its 34th consecutive year hosting the Street of Dreams, the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland decided to do something different. They went urban – into the Pearl District. Each year designers clamor for the opportunity to design and style a home in the Street of Dreams. Apparently the allure of designing in contemporary penthouses with cascading views was irresistible to many, because the HBA experienced record interest from the design community at large in 2009. It was an honor to be one of seven designers selected. “The Luster of the Pearl” combined the allure of clean lines and redefined traditional silhouettes with texture and opulence. The color palette was fashion-inspired with unexpected color combinations like smoky violet and tiger-eye gold backed with metallic and warm neutrals. Our design included cosmetic reconstruction of the fireplace, mosaic tile improvements to the kitchen, artistic custom wall finishes and introduced new materials to the Portland market. The process was a whirlwind of early mornings, late nights and weekends. “With an extremely short timeline with large demands, this Street of Dreams challenged me in extraordinary ways that made me a better project manager, communicator, designer and partner to my vendors.” This project won the People’s Choice Award for Best Master Suite at the Northwest Natural 2009 Street of Dreams. For more about Angela Todd Studios, click here: https://www.angelatoddstudios.com/

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

Let me walk you through how this unique powder room layout was transformed into a charming space filled with vintage charm: First, I took a good look at the layout of the powder room to see what I was working with. I wanted to keep any special features while making improvements where needed. Next, I added vintage-inspired fixtures like a pedestal sink, faucet with exposed drain (key detail) along with beautiful lighting to give the space that old hotel charm. I made sure to choose pieces with intricate details and finishes that matched the vintage vibe. Then, I picked out some statement wallpaper with bold, vintage patterns to really make the room pop. Think damask, floral, or geometric designs in rich colours that transport you back in time; hello William Morris. Of course, no vintage-inspired space is complete without antique accessories. I added mirrors, sconces, and artwork with ornate frames and unique details to enhance the room's vintage charm. To add warmth and texture, I chose luxurious textiles like hand towels with interesting detail. These soft, plush fabrics really make the space feel cozy and inviting. For lighting, I installed vintage-inspired fixtures such as a gun metal pendant light along with sophisticated sconces topped with delicate cream shades to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I made sure they had dimmable bulbs so you can adjust the lighting to suit your mood. To enhance the vintage charm even further, I added architectural details like wainscoting, shiplap and crown molding. These details really elevate the space and give it that old-world feel. I also incorporated unique artifacts and vintage finds, like cowbells and vintage signage, to add character and interest to the room. These items were perfect for displaying in our cabinet as decorative accents. Finally, I upgraded the hardware with vintage-inspired designs to complement the overall aesthetic of the space. I chose pieces with modern detailing and aged finishes for an authentic vintage look. And there you have it! I was able to transform a unique powder room layout into a charming space reminiscent of an old hotel.

In its 34th consecutive year hosting the Street of Dreams, the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland decided to do something different. They went urban – into the Pearl District. Each year designers clamor for the opportunity to design and style a home in the Street of Dreams. Apparently the allure of designing in contemporary penthouses with cascading views was irresistible to many, because the HBA experienced record interest from the design community at large in 2009. It was an honor to be one of seven designers selected. “The Luster of the Pearl” combined the allure of clean lines and redefined traditional silhouettes with texture and opulence. The color palette was fashion-inspired with unexpected color combinations like smoky violet and tiger-eye gold backed with metallic and warm neutrals. Our design included cosmetic reconstruction of the fireplace, mosaic tile improvements to the kitchen, artistic custom wall finishes and introduced new materials to the Portland market. The process was a whirlwind of early mornings, late nights and weekends. “With an extremely short timeline with large demands, this Street of Dreams challenged me in extraordinary ways that made me a better project manager, communicator, designer and partner to my vendors.” This project won the People’s Choice Award for Best Master Suite at the Northwest Natural 2009 Street of Dreams. For more about Angela Todd Studios, click here: https://www.angelatoddstudios.com/

Create a vibrant mural of the outdoors in your home. Milgard Stacking Glass Walls open up by sliding large glass panels on top of each other, flooding the room with natural light and fresh air. The aluminum frames and panels are thermally broken with a full weather-stripped structural interlock system for improved energy efficiency. Customize your glass wall with four exterior frame colors including Clear Anodized and Dark Anodized Bronze. Choose between an all aluminum frame or aluminum clad wood option with a solid wood interior.