Sited in the woodsy hills of San Anselmo, this house suffered from oddities of scale and organization as well as a rather low grade of detailing and finish. This design savvy couple saw the property’s potential and turned to building Lab to develop it into a home for their young, growing family. Initial discussions centered on expanding the kitchen and master bath but grew to encapsulate the entire house. With a bit of creative thinking we met the challenge of expanding both the sense of and actual space without the full cost of an addition. An earlier addition had included a screened-in porch which, with the floor and roof already framed, we now saw as the perfect place to expand the kitchen. Capturing this space effectively doubled the size of the kitchen and dramatically improved both natural light and the engagement to rear deck and landscape. The lushly forested surrounds cued the generous application of walnut cabinetry and details. Exposed cold rolled steel components infused the space with a rustic simplicity that the original detailing lacked but seemed to want. Replacement of hollow core six panel doors with solid core slabs, simplification of trim profiles and skim coating all sheetrock refined the overall feel. Ultimately, pretty much every surface - including the exterior - received our attention. On approach, the project maintains the house’s original sense of modesty. On the interior, warmth, refinement and livability are achieved by finding what the house had to offer rather than aggressive reinvention. photos by scott hargis

Holly Days Nursery and Landscapes http://hollydaysnursery.com Project Entry: Collegeville Manor 2013 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential Hardscaping $15,000 - $30,000 Project Description: Located on a hilltop in rural Collegeville, Montgomery County, this three-story single-family residence creates a bold silhouette when viewed from the road below. Built on a 2-acre lot in 1997, the home has undergone several upgrades — a lovely stone façade, a pool and bathhouse, an extensive paver patio for entertaining guests, and a gazebo to enjoy quieter times. However, despite attempts by others to improve upon the builder's original design, the front entry remained unwelcoming and therefore underused. The original front entry included a portico stretching three stories above a narrow porch. The porch steps were of uneven length with one step situated two feet off-center. The portico columns, only 8" in diameter, rested on the lowest step, further highlighting the off-centered step above. The landing and walkway were installed using small pavers, while minimal plantings occupied narrow beds. At a later date several planting beds within the entry area were enlarged to make space for a more complex planting plan, yet the overall design remained out­of-scale. The clients were most unhappy with the space and were at a loss as to how to remedy the situation. Here, in this beautiful countryside, sat this big bold three-story house that demanded an equally bold front entry. The design solution was to remove all the under-scaled distractions and make the portico, with the door at its center, the focal point it was meant to be. The key elements required to make this transformation would include: Install wider portico pillars and visually anchor them on an elevated base; Center the porch steps; Pay particular attention to size, color and pattern with regard to stone work and pavers; and Create a sense of space using sitting walls, formal plantings and outdoor lighting. The original 8" diameter portico columns looked like toothpicks straining to hold the weight of the roof above. The columns were replaced with 14" square pillars set on a 32"H base using flamed West Mountain Pier Caps (30"x30"x3") and rock face edge. The steps were recreated; being of equal length, they now sit snuggly between the pillar bases. The portico elements (steps, porch, door, pillars and roof) now function as one architectural feature with the door at its center. The original design included a small landing area that appeared even smaller due to the size and pattern of the pavers. An expanded landing area and reconfigured walkway was installed using Rinox Palazzo, Panama Beige pavers set in a random pattern with a sailor bond edge. Two sitting walls flank the entrance to the landing to create a formal courtyard. The sitting walls were capped using Architectural Stone's 2" West Mountain Flagstone. The beige pavers and West Mountain stone more closely match the color of the stone façade of the house. Architectural lighting was installed on the sitting wall piers to light the walkway, while spotlighting and backlighting are used to accent trees and taller shrubs within the courtyard. Formal plantings of hollies, boxwoods and laurels provide structure to the courtyard while a few larger shrubs provide color and texture. The homeowners chose not to add many perennials to the courtyard's planting plan, preferring instead to focus more on the structure of the plants and how they compliment the larger features of the house. However, the formal lines of the boxwoods and hollies are softened by the informality of Knockout roses and Oakleaf Hydrangeas. What makes this project special is the sense of accomplishment everyone felt when the project was completed. The homeowners, the designer and the stone mason knew the space had great potential; however, its beauty was overshadowed by so many distractions — the scale of the original portico; the uneven steps; the missing focal point and mismatched hardscape components. As testament to the success of the design, the clients tell us that guests now approach the front entry and courtyard on a regular basis, no longer choosing to knock at the side- door entrance. Photo Credit: Holly Days Nursery and Landscapes

One homeowner of a particular model home in the Sun City Roseville development that came with a rather large space for a laundry room, was faced with this dilemma recently. After relocating her washer and dryer into the garage and setting up a make shift office of her own in the laundry room, the homeowner realized that, although she succeeded in turning the space into a somewhat functional work area, it just wasn’t up to par for all of her wants and needs. Hoping to come up some new small home office ideas that would squeeze all of her needs into the tiny space, she decided to seek help from a home organization specialist and sat down with The Closet Doctor. There were several requirements and obstacles that made the development of an office design which satisfied the homeowner particularly difficult. One was the need for two workstations which would have enough desk space for each person to sit comfortably and not be on top of each other. Another obstacle was the new design had to work around a cut-out in the corner of the wall, which contained built-in shelves for the components of a nearby entertainment center. Finally, the designer also had to be sure to incorporate “lots of legal sized filing drawers” into its new design. The Closet Doctor went to work and was able to design a solution that, not only met all of the homeowner’s needs, but was attractive, and within her budget. The new built-in design included two work areas that were spacious and each with its own overhead cabinet, storage drawer, and single letter size file drawer for active projects. In between the two overhead cabinets, additional open shelving allowed for display items as well as space for a small TV in the center. Extra storage and organization space was also put behind doors for a clean and neat look. In addition, in order to maintain as much space as possible, the cabinets on the end and left side wall were made just deep enough to fit legal size lateral file drawers. Finally, the built in component shelves were left open in the corner for easy access, with the desk top passing in front of the space at the same height as one of the shelves, which gave the corner a neat and organized appearance as well. To top it off, low energy under cabinet LED lights with a dimmer switch were installed in order to illuminate the work area. The Client loved the result of her home improvement project, in both the look and functionality of the new design compared to the “temporary setup” she had in place before. With the additional storage space and organization that the new built in office unit provided, the satisfied homeowner was able to achieve the clean and organized look as well as optimum functionality that she preferred.

Living room - traditional living room idea in DC Metro with a stone fireplace

Inspiration for a timeless closet remodel in San Francisco

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it. A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel. Design Objectives: -Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions -Make the shower larger and more open -Use luxurious materials throughout -Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items -Incorporate luxury shower fixtures -Include the latest technology Design Challenges -Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub -Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used -Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design -Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system -Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up -Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes -Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile Design solutions: -A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower -Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower -A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower -The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic -Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it. A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel. Design Objectives: -Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions -Make the shower larger and more open -Use luxurious materials throughout -Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items -Incorporate luxury shower fixtures -Include the latest technology Design Challenges -Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub -Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used -Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design -Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system -Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up -Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes -Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile Design solutions: -A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower -Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower -A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower -The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic -Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

Home Theater includes a stage for family band concerts. The adjoining bar area adds to the family entertaining area. This project won National awards from NARI and Electronic House. The Theater gear was supplied and installed by Media Rooms' electronic integration department. The Theater proscenium, Stage and Bar were designed & fabricated in the In-House Cabinet shop of Media Rooms Inc.

J&J Construction
Elegant family room photo in Chicago

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it. A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel. Design Objectives: -Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions -Make the shower larger and more open -Use luxurious materials throughout -Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items -Incorporate luxury shower fixtures -Include the latest technology Design Challenges -Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub -Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used -Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design -Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system -Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up -Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes -Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile Design solutions: -A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower -Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower -A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower -The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic -Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

A landscaping and lawn care customer in Lakeway, TX scheduled a handyman project to improve the function and look of their back yard and patio. This view of the patio shows the space, including the old fence. We began by removing outdated equipment and concrete. After a short clean and clear this space was ready for new components.

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it. A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel. Design Objectives: -Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions -Make the shower larger and more open -Use luxurious materials throughout -Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items -Incorporate luxury shower fixtures -Include the latest technology Design Challenges -Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub -Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used -Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design -Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system -Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up -Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes -Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile Design solutions: -A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower -Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower -A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower -The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic -Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

Photo: practical(ly) studios ©2012
Inspiration for an industrial built-in desk home office remodel in New York with white walls

This Pacific Heights home required dramatic structural improvements before the final architectural vision could be fully realized. The project included the transformation of an unfinished Basement into a climate-controlled Wine Room, finished Mechanical Room, unique Man's Den, Au-pair Suite, and Laundry Room with tiled Dog Shower. The Main Floor was entirely altered. Both the front and rear yards were completely landscaped and a new wrap-around hardwood deck augmented the southern wing. Solar panels were added to the roof and the exterior was completely refinished.

Large trendy glass railing balcony photo in Austin with a roof extension

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it. A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel. Design Objectives: -Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions -Make the shower larger and more open -Use luxurious materials throughout -Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items -Incorporate luxury shower fixtures -Include the latest technology Design Challenges -Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub -Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used -Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design -Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system -Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up -Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes -Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile Design solutions: -A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower -Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower -A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower -The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic -Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

This 88 square foot Montclair bath is the main bathroom for the family. The 6 drawer vanity, built from reclaimed Amish barnwood from Pennsylvania, is stepped back at the sides to allow for more room at the entrance. The floating shelves in the Towel Tower are also from reclaimed wood. The CaesarStone countertop is made from 24% recycled content (crushed glass and mirror). The vintage medicine cabinet was given a fresh coat of paint. The custom tile and marble recessed niche in the bathtub provides plenty of space for the family's stuff. Lighting was improved with the addition of a wet location recessed light in the tub and a pair of wall sconces. White subway tile, accents of muted glass mosaics, Carrara marble basketweave floor tile and the water/sky colored walls and ceiling all contribute to a cheerful and calm brightness. Photo: Wing Wong

The goal of this project was to upgrade the builder grade finishes and create an ergonomic space that had a contemporary feel. This bathroom transformed from a standard, builder grade bathroom to a contemporary urban oasis. This was one of my favorite projects, I know I say that about most of my projects but this one really took an amazing transformation. By removing the walls surrounding the shower and relocating the toilet it visually opened up the space. Creating a deeper shower allowed for the tub to be incorporated into the wet area. Adding a LED panel in the back of the shower gave the illusion of a depth and created a unique storage ledge. A custom vanity keeps a clean front with different storage options and linear limestone draws the eye towards the stacked stone accent wall. Houzz Write Up: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/inside-houzz-a-chopped-up-bathroom-goes-streamlined-and-swank-stsetivw-vs~27263720 The layout of this bathroom was opened up to get rid of the hallway effect, being only 7 foot wide, this bathroom needed all the width it could muster. Using light flooring in the form of natural lime stone 12x24 tiles with a linear pattern, it really draws the eye down the length of the room which is what we needed. Then, breaking up the space a little with the stone pebble flooring in the shower, this client enjoyed his time living in Japan and wanted to incorporate some of the elements that he appreciated while living there. The dark stacked stone feature wall behind the tub is the perfect backdrop for the LED panel, giving the illusion of a window and also creates a cool storage shelf for the tub. A narrow, but tasteful, oval freestanding tub fit effortlessly in the back of the shower. With a sloped floor, ensuring no standing water either in the shower floor or behind the tub, every thought went into engineering this Atlanta bathroom to last the test of time. With now adequate space in the shower, there was space for adjacent shower heads controlled by Kohler digital valves. A hand wand was added for use and convenience of cleaning as well. On the vanity are semi-vessel sinks which give the appearance of vessel sinks, but with the added benefit of a deeper, rounded basin to avoid splashing. Wall mounted faucets add sophistication as well as less cleaning maintenance over time. The custom vanity is streamlined with drawers, doors and a pull out for a can or hamper. A wonderful project and equally wonderful client. I really enjoyed working with this client and the creative direction of this project. Brushed nickel shower head with digital shower valve, freestanding bathtub, curbless shower with hidden shower drain, flat pebble shower floor, shelf over tub with LED lighting, gray vanity with drawer fronts, white square ceramic sinks, wall mount faucets and lighting under vanity. Hidden Drain shower system. Atlanta Bathroom.

Cabinet Detail - Roll out Trays - Green Home Remodel – Clean and Green on a Budget – with Flair Close up shows roll out trays to keep pots and pans close at hand. Today many families with young children put health and safety first among their priorities for their homes. Young families are often on a budget as well, and need to save in important areas such as energy costs by creating more efficient homes. In this major kitchen remodel and addition project, environmentally sustainable solutions were on top of the wish list producing a wonderfully remodeled home that is clean and green, coming in on time and on budget. ‘g’ Green Design Center was the first and only stop when the homeowners of this mid-sized Cape-style home were looking for assistance. They had a rough idea of the layout they were hoping to create and came to ‘g’ for design and materials. Nicole Goldman, of ‘g’ did the space planning and kitchen design, and worked with Greg Delory of Greg DeLory Home Design for the exterior architectural design and structural design components. All the finishes were selected with ‘g’ and the homeowners. All are sustainable, non-toxic and in the case of the insulation, extremely energy efficient. Beginning in the kitchen, the separating wall between the old kitchen and hallway was removed, creating a large open living space for the family. The existing oak cabinetry was removed and new, plywood and solid wood cabinetry from Canyon Creek, with no-added urea formaldehyde (NAUF) in the glues or finishes was installed. Existing strand woven bamboo which had been recently installed in the adjacent living room, was extended into the new kitchen space, and the new addition that was designed to hold a new dining room, mudroom, and covered porch entry. The same wood was installed in the master bedroom upstairs, creating consistency throughout the home and bringing a serene look throughout. The kitchen cabinetry is in an Alder wood with a natural finish. The countertops are Eco By Cosentino; A Cradle to Cradle manufactured materials of recycled (75%) glass, with natural stone, quartz, resin and pigments, that is a maintenance-free durable product with inherent anti-bacterial qualities. In the first floor bathroom, all recycled-content tiling was utilized from the shower surround, to the flooring, and the same eco-friendly cabinetry and counter surfaces were installed. The similarity of materials from one room creates a cohesive look to the home, and aided in budgetary and scheduling issues throughout the project. Throughout the project UltraTouch insulation was installed following an initial energy audit that availed the homeowners of about $1,500 in rebate funds to implement energy improvements. Whenever ‘g’ Green Design Center begins a project such as a remodel or addition, the first step is to understand the energy situation in the home and integrate the recommended improvements into the project as a whole. Also used throughout were the AFM Safecoat Zero VOC paints which have no fumes, or off gassing and allowed the family to remain in the home during construction and painting without concern for exposure to fumes. Dan Cutrona Photography