The client requested a kitchen that would not only provide a great space to cook and enjoy family meals but one that would fit in with her unique design sense. An avid collector of contemporary art, she wanted something unexpected in her 100-year-old home in both color and finishes but still providing a great layout with improved lighting, storage, and superior cooking abilities. The existing kitchen was in a closed off space trapped between the family room and the living. If you were in the kitchen, you were isolated from the rest of the house. Making the kitchen an integrated part of the home was a paramount request. Step one, remove the wall separating the kitchen from the other rooms in the home which allowed the new kitchen to become an integrated space instead of an isolation room for the cook. Next, we relocated the pantry access which was in the family room to the kitchen integrating a poorly used recess which had become a catch all area which did not provide any usable space for storage or working area. To add valuable function in the kitchen we began by capturing unused "cubbies", adding a walk-in pantry from the kitchen, increasing the storage lost to un-needed drop ceilings and bring light and design to the space with a new large awning window, improved lighting, and combining interesting finishes and colors to reflect the artistic attitude of the client. A bathroom located above the kitchen had been leaking into the plaster ceiling for several years. That along with knob and tube wiring, rotted beams and a brick wall from the back of the fireplace in the adjacent living room all needed to be brought to code. The walls, ceiling and floors in this 100+ year old home were completely out of level and the room’s foot print could not be increased. The choice of a Sub-Zero wolf product is a standard in my kitchen designs. The quality of the product, its manufacturing and commitment to food preservation is the reason I specify Sub Zero Wolf. For the cook top, the integrated line of the contemporary cooktop and the signature red knobs against the navy blue of the cabinets added to the design vibe of the kitchen. The cooking performance and the large continuous grate on the cooktop makes it an obvious choice for a cook looking for a great cook top with professional results in a more streamlined profile. We selected a Sharp microwave drawer for the island, an XO wine refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher and Kitchen Aid double convection wall ovens to round out the appliance package. A recess created by the fireplace was outfitted with a cabinet which now holds small appliances within easy reach of my very petite client. Natural maple accents were used inside all the wall cabinets and repeated on the front of the hood and for the sliding door appliance cabinet and the floating shelves. This allows a brighter interior for the painted cabinets instead of the traditional same interior as exterior finish choice. The was an amazing transformation from the old to the new. The final touches are the honey bronze hardware from Top Knobs, Mitzi pendants from Hudson Valley Lighting group, a fabulous faucet from Brizo. To eliminate the old freestanding bottled water cooler, we specified a matching water filter faucet.

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

Nestled in the Pocono mountains, the house had been on the market for a while, and no one had any interest in it. Then along comes our lovely client, who was ready to put roots down here, leaving Philadelphia, to live closer to her daughter. She had a vision of how to make this older small ranch home, work for her. This included images of baking in a beautiful kitchen, lounging in a calming bedroom, and hosting family and friends, toasting to life and traveling! We took that vision, and working closely with our contractors, carpenters, and product specialists, spent 8 months giving this home new life. This included renovating the entire interior, adding an addition for a new spacious master suite, and making improvements to the exterior. It is now, not only updated and more functional; it is filled with a vibrant mix of country traditional style. We are excited for this new chapter in our client’s life, the memories she will make here, and are thrilled to have been a part of this ranch house Cinderella transformation.

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.

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

The new kitchen design includes double islands which helped improve circulation and provide direct access to the breakfast nook. At the opening, we opted for a two-tiered countertop with bar-height seating ideal for entertaining. The distinct blue-green island offers a pop of color against the backdrop of white counters, cabinets and backsplash. The textured zellige-style subway tile adds visual interest and pairs beautifully with the subtly veined quartz countertops, keeping the space feeling light and bright. The new layout transforms the kitchen’s flow and the bright and welcoming breakfast nook is no longer cut off by the old peninsula. The center island provides a generous amount of prep space and storage and houses a stainless farmhouse sink, dishwasher, and trash roll-outs on one side with an additional bank of cabinets on the other. A new 6-burner gas cooktop was installed with a custom wood hood above. We incorporated a new microwave drawer and were able to repurpose our client’s existing double wall ovens and refrigerator that were only a few years old.

Michelle Jones Photography
Mid-sized transitional u-shaped porcelain tile kitchen photo in Austin with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Inspiration for a rustic exterior home remodel in DC Metro

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.

The new kitchen design includes double islands which helped improve circulation and provide direct access to the breakfast nook. At the opening, we opted for a two-tiered countertop with bar-height seating ideal for entertaining. The distinct blue-green island offers a pop of color against the backdrop of white counters, cabinets and backsplash. The textured zellige-style subway tile adds visual interest and pairs beautifully with the subtly veined quartz countertops, keeping the space feeling light and bright. The new layout transforms the kitchen’s flow and the bright and welcoming breakfast nook is no longer cut off by the old peninsula. The center island provides a generous amount of prep space and storage and houses a stainless farmhouse sink, dishwasher, and trash roll-outs on one side with an additional bank of cabinets on the other. A new 6-burner gas cooktop was installed with a custom wood hood above. We incorporated a new microwave drawer and were able to repurpose our client’s existing double wall ovens and refrigerator that were only a few years old.

Zoon media
Example of a mid-sized 1960s medium tone wood floor and brown floor family room design in Calgary with white walls and a tile fireplace

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

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 semi-detached home underwent years of renovations but was still in desperate need of an update. My clients, a professional couple originally from San Francisco with a one year old, were interested in redesigning and redecorating the entire first floor. Equally not afraid of colour, we were a good fit from the start and worked well together creating a family friendly home also suitable for entertaining, something the couple does often. ​ The scope included paint colour selection for the entire house, floor plans, custom furniture design, furniture & accessory sourcing, new blinds, a gallery wall and styling throughout. Favourite pieces include the silk area rug that defines the large living room, custom art, furniture and lighting (all by Toronto designers) as well as colourful pieces from CB2. The use of so many bold, bright colours in this large home was a fun challenge to envision and create.

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.

Despite the billion-dollar views, premium homes are scant atop the Palisades. When the designer set out to create the perfect Palisades aerie, complete with a private pool, it proved to be quiet the undertaking. This property is situated just behind the cliff's edge with fantastic views, but equally as many challenges. After nearly three years of arduous renovations and improvements, it's now a sophisticated retreat with modern, industrial finishes throughout. Without a doubt, the crowning achievement of this spectacular renovation is the 10 foot by 12 foot stainless steel pool and hot tub situated on the roof. The 2017 Global Choice ARDA goes to Dixon Projects Designer: Dixon Projects From: New York, New York

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

Lee Monarch
Wet room - small modern master brown tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile and beige floor wet room idea with a two-piece toilet, brown walls, a wall-mount sink and a hinged shower door

The kitchen was at the top of the list for a total overhaul – the worn oak cabinets, dated appliances, and clunky layout all had to go. Removing the decorative soffits allowed us to take the new cabinetry all the way to the ceiling, adding functional storage and visually extending the room’s height. We reconfigured the layout from a modified U to an L-shape which accomplished several things – it opened up the kitchen to the dining room, redirected circulation, and most importantly, created space for an island. A brand new pantry was created for overflow food storage, bulk items, occasional dishware and small appliances, ensuring that our client’s goal of uncluttered countertops was achievable. The finish selections and clean lines give a nod to the home’s mid-century bones. The wood island provides warmth and the light quartz countertops, textured backsplash and white cabinets keep the kitchen feeling light and bright. We opted to install open shelving above the sink which provides display space and needed storage without the bulkiness of an overhead cabinet. The matte black faucet, hardware and decorative pendants add another level of visual interest to the modern kitchen. To unify the kitchen and dining room, we replaced the drab kitchen flooring with select red oak hardwoods that were expertly installed and refinished to match the gorgeous wood flooring throughout the home.