We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

Another beautiful Bungalow kitchen remodel in the Northrop neighborhood of South Minneapolis. These homeowners contacted Castle planning for a whole kitchen renovation, which included opening the existing kitchen into the dining room so the family could enjoy a more multi-purpose space. The original (1927) built-in buffet cabinet between the kitchen and dining was re-homed to a vintage salvage room in Minneapolis for a new future life. The homeowners did not want a boring kitchen. We also focused on matching the original style/feel of the home but rejuvenated. A fresh traditional kitchen design was planned to provide better function for the family’s needs and also a beautiful style to the heart of their home. New hardwood floors carry into the kitchen to match the existing hardwoods. New custom-built flush-inset cabinetry was designed with a wonderful two-tone color scheme. The new cabinetry includes custom storage, glass uppers and accessories; silverware tray divides, trash pull-out, outlet docking drawer for phones to charge, custom shelf roll-outs and lazy susan corners. Castle selected historic paint colors by Benjamin Moore to keep within the period of the home. The base cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore, Tarrytown green and the uppers in a soft white (BM, Ballet white). By doing two cabinetry colors, Castle was able to create some unique interest and anchor the base cabinet to the floor while still having light walls with the white cabinetry. New marble patterned Cambria Quartz countertops were selected in the luxurious and classic Torquay design. To complete the walls, traditional white subway tile was installed. Along with the beautiful finishes, we also improved light quality in the space. New windows were installed increasing from 2 windows to 3 windows with an additional window to the backyard. We also installed 2 Solatubes for additional natural lighting. The Solatubes also include a solar-powered night light and additional light kit for night time use. Overall, the new traditional kitchen is much like a spring day – light, airy and inviting! Come see the space on Castle’s Educational Home Tour, Fall 2018!

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

The Setup When Samantha’s clients purchased their new home, they quickly realized the primary bath and adjacent laundry room weren’t just dated — they were dysfunctional. The bathroom featured a hulking decked-in tub, a cramped pass-through layout, and plumbing fixtures that barely worked. Meanwhile, the nearby laundry room felt more like a closet, lacking both natural light and usable storage. As long-time returning Drury Design clients, these veteran remodeling clients came to us with a clear ask: reimagine these two key spaces with long-term comfort, function, and beauty in mind. Design objectives: Create a more functional, spacious layout in the primary bath Modernize the aesthetic while respecting the home’s transitional character Eliminate awkward bump-outs and toe-stubbing pinch points Design a large walk-in shower with thoughtful aging-in-place elements Incorporate a sculptural standalone tub that feels intentional, not crowded Improve laundry room utility and bring in natural light Introduce discreet yet effective storage in both rooms Make both spaces feel cohesive, light-filled, and livable for years to come The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: A bulky built-in tub jutted into the circulation path, creating toe-stubbing hazards The bathroom layout was awkwardly L-shaped, limiting flow and flexibility The shower and toilet were squeezed together in an enclosed room with poor use of space The linen cabinet in the bathroom was large and clunky, crowding the room The laundry room was undersized, lacked light, and had limited functionality The home featured transitional details that didn’t align with the clients’ more contemporary style The clients wanted both spaces to support future aging-in-place needs The Renewed Space Design solutions: Swapped the oversized tub for a freestanding sculptural version placed on an angle, clearing walkways and preserving window symmetry and light Reworked the footprint to create a rectangular layout that maximized space in both the primary bath and laundry room Removed the enclosed toilet/shower room and replaced it with a wide, glass-enclosed shower and a tucked-away toilet — all within a visually open and efficient layout Tucked a slim, full-height linen cabinet just behind the entry door — easily accessible without cluttering the visual field Retooled layout allowed laundry room to extend over the old shower/toilet space, also winning a window – this brightens the laundry space and the hallway beyond. Also added smart storage, a wide sink, folding counter, and broom cabinet with power. Balanced contemporary materials with transitional details — including a rich color palette, chrome finishes, mosaic accents, and herringbone tile in a larger scale for traditional flair Integrated aging-in-place features including a wide walk-in shower, large built-in bench with nearby handheld, and plenty of room for easy movement and accessibility Final Thoughts: By designing these two rooms in tandem, Samantha was able to create a smooth and thoughtful flow between everyday tasks and everyday comfort. The bathroom now offers generous circulation space, elegant materials, and features designed for longevity — including a large shower with bench seating and open sightlines that support accessibility. Just steps away, the laundry room is no longer a tucked-away closet but a light-filled, functional hub with room to fold, hang, rinse, and more (ex. recharge vacuum in a closet with power outlets). For these longtime Drury Design clients, it’s a two-room transformation built not just for today – but for the years ahead.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours Envision Virtual Tours and High Resolution Photography is your best choice to find just what you are looking for in the Ellijay, Ga. area .Ellijay, Georgia, known as the “Apple Capital” of Georgia, is located between the Ellijay and Cartecay Rivers where they join to make the Coosawattee River and is the county seat of Gilmer County, Georgia. The origin of the city’s name is not certain but thought to be the English derivative of an Indian word(s) meaning “many waters”, “place of green things” or “new ground”. Some histories say it may have been named for an Indian chief. Inhabited for countless years by the Cherokee people indigenous to the North Georgia, the area was first mentioned as a village and trade center before the onslaught of white settlers inhabited the region. During the 1830’s both white settlers and Indians occupied Ellijay. During the original land lottery in 1832, Martin Scalf acquired the 160 acre lot where the town now stands. In 1833, Clemonds Quinland bought 10 acres from Scalf, retained one acre for himself and donated the rest of the purchase to the County. A plan for twenty town lots, streets and a public square was created and the streets were oriented to allow maximum sunlight exposure to the buildings. Proceeds from lot sales were used to build a jail and courthouse and pay other city expenses. During this same year, Gilmer County was appropriated $800.00 from the State to build a school, and a three-acre lot was donated for the city cemetery. On December 29, l834, Ellijay was incorporated and designated as the County seat of Gilmer County. By 1837, the town had twenty dwellings, three stores and one attorney. Most of these early buildings were of log construction. Many roads led to Ellijay by 1849. The population had grown to 150 by 1850 and the town at five stores. Some wood-frame buildings were being constructed at this time and in 1854, a new courthouse was built in the center of the square, replacing the earlier building. The County’s first newspaper was the Ellijay Courier, started in 1875, and during this time period, Ellijay was a stop on the stagecoach line. The railroad bridge over the Cartecay River was completed in 1884 and the town now had rail service. With the arrival of the railroad and subsequent tracks to White Path, Ellijay began to grow much faster. Many hotels were constructed and land was donated for a depot east of town. More industries, such as a cheese factory and the Shippen Brothers Lumber Mill, located in Ellijay. By 1898, the city had expanded its limits in every direction and now included the depot. By 1900, all the buildings on the town square were brick. This included the recently completed Hyatt Hotel. Most of the other buildings in town were still of log construction, but new wood-frame buildings were being built. The Shippen Brothers Lumber Company production was expanding and exporting their lumber to Europe. Within the next few decades, this company grew to be one of the largest employers in Ellijay, often with five to six million feet of lumber in the yard at one time. The population of Ellijay grew to 659 by 1910, and began to acquire many new modern conveniences such as electric lights and power, a telephone company and many new businesses. Then in 1912, a fire ravaged the city, destroying 23 buildings. As a result, many new buildings were constructed under new and stricter fire and safety guidelines. The population, however, decreased slightly at this time to 632 in 1920. During the 1920’s the town’s population began to grow again and, by this time, apples were being shipped out of the county and new storage facilities were built. Chickens were also shipped to markets outside of Ellijay and Gilmer County. From the mid 1930’s to 1950, Ellijay received much assistance from the Federal WPA Programs. The old courthouse was removed from the center of town square and the Hyatt Hotel was remodeled to be the new courthouse. A park was created on the site of the old courthouse and the streets around the square were paved. A new street was built at this time entering town from the northeast. Other new roads, bridges, sidewalks and gutters were constructed to improve the city. A school and gymnasium were also built and other structures improved. This growth began to impact the city’s infrastructure and in the l950’s and l960’s, a period of upgrading water systems, roads, and power supplies began. New low-rent housing appeared in l960 and a new hospital was built in l957. Georgia Highway 5 was widened in l962, new buildings around the square replaced old ones and some were remodeled. In 1974, the hospital was enlarged. Currently, Ellijay attracts tourists who love the small-town feel and friendly atmosphere. Hotels and restaurants, unique shops, antiques and art galleries lend their charms to those who visit. A new courthouse constructed to resemble the old one, new streetscaping, family-oriented downtown events and the beautification of the square have stepped up the social and economic activity and have made Ellijay a popular destination.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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/galleries/kitchen-dining/

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

The image presents a captivating pool house and outdoor living area nestled in the picturesque North Avenue of Westport, Connecticut. This stunning space is the result of a recent home renovation carried out by The O'Dell Group, a highly respected Design-Build collaborative known for their expertise in residential construction. Kul grilles floor registers were carefully selected to be a finishing aspect of this modern design, because of their exceptional quality and aesthetic appeal. These floor registers add a touch of elegance and functionality to the overall ambiance. Crafted with utmost precision, the kul grilles floor registers seamlessly blend into the space, seamlessly merging style and practicality. Surrounded by lush greenery and bathed in natural light, the pool house and outdoor living area exemplify a harmonious fusion of nature and contemporary architecture. The O'Dell Group's commitment to their founding principle—recognizing that every element of one's surroundings contributes to well-being—shines through in this remarkable project. The pool house serves as a retreat for relaxation and recreation, with its spacious layout and tastefully curated furnishings. Large windows and glass doors provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, allowing the natural beauty of the outdoors to become an integral part of the interior experience. Strategically positioned seating areas invite moments of contemplation and conversation, while the meticulously designed outdoor kitchen and dining space cater to both culinary indulgence and entertainment. The seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas creates a fluidity that enhances the overall sense of openness and connectivity. The pool itself is a sparkling oasis, beckoning visitors to take a refreshing dip on warm summer days. A carefully designed deck area provides ample space for lounging and basking in the sun's warm embrace. Overall, this remarkable pool house and outdoor living area capture the expertise and meticulous attention to detail that defines The O'Dell Group's work. Their collaboration with kul grilles has resulted in a space that effortlessly combines beauty, functionality, and a deep appreciation for the surrounding environment. It's a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design and skillful execution in creating spaces that enhance one's well-being and provide a sanctuary for relaxation and enjoyment.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.

After six years of living in their Huntley IL home, Chris and Meghan were tired of their dark, dingy, outdated kitchen and it was finally time for a long-anticipated change. “The kitchen is the place where we live, it’s where we do everything,” Meghan said. “It was important that it be a space where we wanted to be.” Meghan loves cooking and enjoys including their girls in healthy meal prepping, this led them to want a brighter, more enjoyable kitchen with increased functionality and improved storage. For Chris especially, the laundry room was an entirely dysfunctional eyesore. “We had a washer and a dryer, but it was all kind-of cobbled together!” Chris said. “There were always laundry piles everywhere, we weren’t really sure what we wanted to do in there, but it was time for us to make a change.” The mess of the space was stressful every time they walked in the door from the garage each day. Kids’ backpacks and shoes piled up haphazardly in the makeshift boot-bench closet left the family feeling disorganized and stressed. They needed space for folding clothes and locker cubbies to help keep the family organized. Having known Christine and Todd in the Huntley community for years, Chris and Meghan were familiar with their work. “We already trusted them personally and having seen their projects for years we knew they did top notch work. After we reviewed the initial round of designs, we knew that hiring them was definitely the right choice,” Meghan and Chris said. Although Chris had done a lot of work in their home himself, the kitchen and laundry room renovation was such a large undertaking that he didn’t want to steal time away from his family to spend what would surely be many long weekends doing the job himself. “That would not have been a wise choice for us,” Chris laughed. “Our designer, Michelle was very, very, easy to work with; anything we wanted to see or weren’t sure about, she went above and beyond to make this easy for us. She was easy to get hold of and always quick to respond,” the couple said. Michelle pulled ideas that mirrored the couple’s taste and style and was adept at directing the couple to limited choices that didn’t overwhelm them and kept the process moving. “I have a hard time making decisions. Michelle made the decision-making process so easy. I loved how she listened to what I liked and then presented three great options for me to choose from,” Meghan said. The main objectives for the kitchen were better storage solutions, they wanted the space to reflect their lifestyle and taste, and they wanted it to last for years with low maintenance. One of the first steps in creating a more functional kitchen was relocating the refrigerator, creating an improved workflow for the busy family. “We didn’t know that we could even move the refrigerator to a new location where it is now, that was something that we never would have thought of,” Chris said. “The new refrigerator location makes the kitchen feel so much bigger. We didn’t add any space, but our whole kitchen with the new design just seems like it’s so much larger than before!” Meghan said. The perimeter mist colored cabinets helped warm and brighten the entire room, while the graphite colored cabinets on the island added contrast. Using this fresh, clean color palette satisfied the couple’s desire for a bright space that was the exact opposite of what they had before. Organization accessories were also added to the cabinets such as a spice drawer tray and roll outs to create hidden convenience. “I absolutely love the hidden spices – it makes cooking so much more enjoyable!” Chris said. “And all the pull outs, and the double trash bin, who would think you could get so excited about organization!” the couple said in unison. One thing they hated in their original kitchen was how dark the space felt. Added lighting on the ceiling with the new light fixtures combined with the lighter cabinetry colors throughout solved this problem. “Our new kitchen has this warm, almost cozy feeling that our old kitchen never had, it’s just a space that I love spending my time in now,” Meghan said. The light airy feeling was accentuated with the use of floating white shelves on either side of the decorative range hood. “We have so much cabinetry space, the new design is amazing we actually have more storage space than we will ever need,” Meghan said. The island was extended to create more work surface and added space for stool seating. “The new island changes how we live. Now the kids can be in the kitchen with us, doing homework, eating breakfast, and the three of us have special dinners there when Chris is working late,” Meghan said. The Carrara Marmi Quartz countertops were chosen because they are, not only beautiful, but are made from hard-working material that doesn’t require maintenance. The white subway tile backsplash that wraps to the ceiling behind the focal point cooktop range/hood compliments the crisp white countertops perfectly, while brushed brass hardware and light fixtures keep the design fresh and new. The couple had a few fears at the beginning of the project, as most homeowners do. Their biggest fear was being out of their kitchen and laundry room for an extended time. The crew made it very easy for the family to work in a limited space keeping the washer and dryer hooked up the majority of the time, and also getting appliances working with minimal downtime. “They above and beyond accommodated us to get us through the process,” Meghan said. “They did a great job making sure we were as comfortable as possible throughout the process,” Chris added. “Our project manager DJ did a great job. He was very good at updating us on schedule changes, getting guys in as quickly as possible. Everyone that stepped in the house was nice and did great work,” said Chris. They thought Advance’s carpenter was phenomenal and were impressed when he took a conceptual idea from a photograph and worked with designer Michelle to create a one of a kind range/hood that has become the topic of conversation with friends and family who visit the new kitchen. “He was in our house literally every day for several weeks. He was easy to work with and good at what he did,” Meghan and Chris said. The focal point of the kitchen; a hand-crafted, custom-built ventilation hood was clad with handpicked reclaimed barnwood. Advance Design’s carpenter built the framework and the cladding to create a one-of-a-kind design element that the couple loves. “I think it was especially fun for him to create something unique from scratch, showcasing his talent in this area,” Meghan said. “I love that my kitchen is not like everyone else’s. I got to pick out the wood on my hood and watch it being built and was able to choose what pieces of wood went where on it. It’s totally unique.” Red Oak flooring was toothed-in throughout the kitchen and the rest of the first floor anywhere changes were made. Then the whole floor was refinished to tone down the orange undertones in the existing floor stain, ultimately changing the color complexion of the entire first floor. The result is a completely new feeling to the entire home. Renovating the laundry room was extremely important to Meghan and Chris, but they had trouble visualizing what the possibilities were for the seemingly small space. Michelle produced beautiful 3D illustrations that helped them envision the space in a whole new way. “I must have told Michelle 100 times that I am a visual person, seeing the designs in 3D made it so easy to make decisions and see what we could really do with our space,” Meghan said. A dividing wall and doorway were removed between the existing laundry room and hallway formerly containing a coat closet, providing space to design specialized graphite colored cabinetry matching the kitchen island to house custom storage cubbies for each family member. Adding the tall utility cabinetry in the new laundry area helped solve the storage issue, tucking away cleaning supplies, household items, and even the cat got its own cubby. “I love how everything is now hidden in its own space. I can’t tell you how much I hated coming home and seeing everything sitting around on counters,” Chris said. Electrical outlets were planned for the inside of utility cabinets, so devices could charge in hidden locations. Stacking the washer and dryer allowed for wider countertop space to provide a folding area and a special space for clothes to hang. “The way I do laundry has been completely transformed! I can actually fold clothes and hang them now right out of the washer and dryer,” Meghan said. “The end result in the kitchen and the laundry/mud room was an updated light and bright space, with a smarter work flow that better meets the needs of this family,” Michelle said. “I would totally recommend Advance Design,” Meghan said. “Sometimes I sit and just look at my kitchen and laundry room and think ‘Wow, I can’t believe I get to live here!’ It’s an understatement to say we love our new space.”

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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/galleries/kitchen-dining/

We gave this large kitchen a completely new look! We brought the style up-to-date and added in some much needed counter space and storage. We loved the quirky charm of the original design, so we made to sure to keep it's unique style very much a part of the new design through the use of mixed materials. Artisanal hand-made floating shelves (made out of old barn wood) along with the exposed wooden beams create a soft but powerful statement -- warm and earthy but strikingly trendy. The rich woods from the floating shelves and height-adjustable pull-out pantry contrast beautifully with the glistening glass cabinets, which offer the perfect place to show off their stunning glassware. By installing new countertops, cabinets, and a peninsula, we were able to drastically improve the amount of workspace. The peninsula offers a place to dine, work, or even use as a buffet - just the kind of functionality and versatility our clients were looking for. The marble backsplash and stainless steel work table add a subtle touch of modernism, that blends extremely well with the more rustic elements. Also, the stainless steel table was the perfect solution for a make-shift island since this older kitchen did not have the typical width that is needed to add a built-in island (plus, it can easily be moved to fit the needs of the homeowners!). Other features include a brand new exhaust fan, which wasn't included in the original design, and entire leveling of the new hardwood floors, which were previously sinking down almost a foot from one side of the space to the other. Designed by Chi Renovation & Design who serve Chicago and it's 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.