Search results for "Improving insulation" in Home Design Ideas

? Replacement Window Upgrade – Clean Finish, Tight Seal
This project included a full replacement window install with attention to the details that matter most for comfort and efficiency.
✔️ Installed replacement window
✔️ New interior & exterior stops
✔️ Spray foam insulation for improved air sealing
✔️ Exterior & interior caulking
✔️ Finished with trim paint for a crisp, clean look
The result is a tighter envelope, better energy performance, and a finished appearance that looks original to the home.
Find the right local pro for your project

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

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

This house had a large water damage and black mold in the bathroom and kitchen area for years and no one took care of it. When we first came in we called a remediation company to remove the black mold and to keep the place safe for the owner and her children. After remediation process was done we start complete demolition process to the kitchen, bathroom, and floors around the house. we rewired the whole house and upgraded the panel box to 200amp. installed R38 insulation in the attic. replaced the AC and upgraded to 3.5 tons. Replaced the entire floors with laminate floors. open up the wall between the living room and the kitchen, creating open space. painting the interior house. installing new kitchen cabinets and counter top. installing appliances. Remodel the bathroom completely. Remodel the front yard and installing artificial grass and river stones. painting the front and side walls of the house. replacing the roof completely with cool roof asphalt shingles.

This mantle provides a simple yet classic statement to this comfortable family room.
Fireplaces are an area where building science and aesthetics truly co-exist. This existing fireplace has been improved through proper insulation and flashing techniques.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

This new two story home was an infill home in an established, sought after neighborhood with a stunning river view.
Although not huge in stature, this home is huge on presence with a modern cottage look featuring three two story columns clad in natural longboard and stone, grey earthtone acrylic stucco, staggered roofline, and the typography of the lot allowed for exquisite natural landscaping.
Inside is equally impressive with features including:
- Radiant heat floors on main level, covered by engineered hardwoods and 2' x 4' travertini Lexus tile
- Grand entry with custom staircase
- Two story open concept living, dining and kitchen areas
- Large, fully appointed butler's pantry
- Glass encased wine feature wall
- Show stopping two story fireplace
- Custom lighting indoors and out for stunning evening illumination
- Large 2nd floor balcony with views of the river.
- R-value of this new build was increased to improve efficiencies by using acrylic stucco, upgraded over rigid insulation and using sprayfoam on the interior walls.

This house had a large water damage and black mold in the bathroom and kitchen area for years and no one took care of it. When we first came in we called a remediation company to remove the black mold and to keep the place safe for the owner and her children. After remediation process was done we start complete demolition process to the kitchen, bathroom, and floors around the house. we rewired the whole house and upgraded the panel box to 200amp. installed R38 insulation in the attic. replaced the AC and upgraded to 3.5 tons. Replaced the entire floors with laminate floors. open up the wall between the living room and the kitchen, creating open space. painting the interior house. installing new kitchen cabinets and counter top. installing appliances. Remodel the bathroom completely. Remodel the front yard and installing artificial grass and river stones. painting the front and side walls of the house. replacing the roof completely with cool roof asphalt shingles.

Removed old single pane window sashes and replaced them with new insulated, LOe glass window sashes
Mid-sized elegant gray three-story mixed siding exterior home photo in Atlanta with a shingle roof
Mid-sized elegant gray three-story mixed siding exterior home photo in Atlanta with a shingle roof

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was hired as the remodeling contractor for this first floor remodel in the countryside of Oconomowoc, WI. By opening the kitchen up to the living room, the layout is better for hosting family gatherings. The entire family can be together in the kitchen and living room – cooking or spending time together. Highlights of this country kitchen include a window seat, walk-in pantry and space for their treasured piano.
Project Goals
+ Restore the beauty of their family home, that was built by the homeowner’s grandfather
+ Cooking functionality for their family farm
+ Add a workstation sink for easy food prep
+ Pantry storage space for canned items & wine collection
+ Design that honors the mid-century ranch bones of the house her grandfather built and their own traditional style
Challenges & Issues
+ Needed space to highlight their piano, since the homeowner is an avid pianist
+ Old layout didn’t have good views of their outdoor space – the lake, gardens and chicken coop
+ Kitchen was too small and cut off from the rest of the home
+ The heat and air conditioning did not function well due to several past additions
Country Kitchen Features:
Cooking Kitchen – We created a larger kitchen by expanding into the old dining room. The homeowners needed more space for canning vegetables, cooking and entertaining.
Mid-Century Country Design – The ranch home was built in the 1950s so we kept the mid-century and country kitchen design aesthetic by using hickory wood, tall verticals and long horizontals.
Kitchen Window Seat – A custom window seat with a curved backrest creates a gathering spot in the kitchen. This connects the home to the outdoor view of the lake where the family fishes and ice skates in winter. The bench is large enough to be used as a guest bed when they have visitors. The cozy nook has shelving, art lights, and a hidden radiator underneath to keep it warm and toasty.
Window Backsplash – Along the range wall, a new window backsplash features the beautiful view of the farm driveway, trees and gardens.
Minimalistic Hood – The hood with the wood shelf mimics the new fireplace mantel and ties the country kitchen and living room together.
New Pantry – The old kitchen area was converted into the new pantry and a laundry room. The pantry is their working kitchen where they can store food, their wine collection, and have countertop space for small appliances. Butcher block countertops, colorful wallpaper and a new window make the pantry inviting. Adjustable shelves allow for flexible storage options. The pocket door can be closed when they have guests.
Recycled Ash Flooring in Kitchen – The homeowners chose an eco-friendly flooring for their country kitchen. The beautiful varied width wood planks are from recycled ash trees from Milwaukee parks.
Workstation Sink – This sink has sliding platforms that hold bowls, colanders and cutting boards to multiply the countertop by going deep instead of wide. The sink can be used to chop, rinse, prep, dry dishes, hold hot dishes and clean up after a meal more efficiently.
Country House Living Room:
New Tile Floor – To better conduct the heat, we replaced the old wood floors with porcelain tile. New radiators, insulation, ductwork, and enclosing the basement staircase improved the function of their HVAC.
Fireplace Makeover – To create a new focal point for the living room, we installed a new fire box, new mantle, and floor to ceiling stone. The goal was to draw the eye up to the vaulted beamed ceiling.
Open Concept Layout – The wall between the kitchen and living room was removed to connect the two spaces. We added new cabinetry along the wall with a tall bookcase. Since they didn’t use their formal dining room, a small dining table was added to the living room.
New Railing & Stairs – The staircase to the kitchen area was tricky because we needed to find a style that would make it feel airy. We did a glass enclosure with a simple metal railing and moved the staircase to the center of the room to allow room for the piano.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

The Stretch Ceiling is an interior design element, and not a structural component.
The whole process is streamlined and fairly simple: the stretch ceiling membrane is usually extended by +5% during the installation process, ensuring it to remain flat and not sag.
Then, every inch of harpoon is safely fastened so now the membrane must gradually and completely cool down, on its own. Until it reaches normal room temperature, the area must remain closed. At the end, you get a perfectly flat ceiling.
Final
As a final step, openings for recessed lighting, A/C vents, pipes, etc, are very carefully cut out into the membrane then, in order to enable the final fittings to be set up, reinforcing rings get inserted.
All previous steps require professional experience and extensive practice with full knowledge of the product, as well as the use of specialized equipment.

This house had a large water damage and black mold in the bathroom and kitchen area for years and no one took care of it. When we first came in we called a remediation company to remove the black mold and to keep the place safe for the owner and her children. After remediation process was done we start complete demolition process to the kitchen, bathroom, and floors around the house. we rewired the whole house and upgraded the panel box to 200amp. installed R38 insulation in the attic. replaced the AC and upgraded to 3.5 tons. Replaced the entire floors with laminate floors. open up the wall between the living room and the kitchen, creating open space. painting the interior house. installing new kitchen cabinets and counter top. installing appliances. Remodel the bathroom completely. Remodel the front yard and installing artificial grass and river stones. painting the front and side walls of the house. replacing the roof completely with cool roof asphalt shingles.
62









