English This kitchen renovation focused on transforming a visually cluttered and spatially inefficient space into a calm, functional, and architecturally coherent environment. The original kitchen felt overcrowded, dark, and constrained, limiting both usability and spatial clarity. A key strategic decision was relocating the refrigerator to the adjacent patio, which functions as a natural extension of the kitchen. This intervention significantly improved circulation, freed valuable workspace, and enhanced the perception of openness within the interior. The material palette was developed in response to the client’s preference for neutral, timeless tones, combining white quartz countertops, soft gray cabinetry, and warm wood accents to create visual balance and spatial continuity. Custom millwork plays a central role in the project. Upper cabinets with glass fronts and integrated interior lighting introduce depth, transparency, and a lighter visual presence, while concealed spice storage was integrated directly into the backsplash through sliding panels, optimizing accessibility without introducing visual clutter. Under-cabinet lighting enhances functionality and provides a soft ambient glow, reinforcing the clarity of surfaces and work zones. The installation of a separate cooktop and built-in oven, instead of a conventional range, contributes to a cleaner and more contemporary architectural expression. An existing counter was redefined and fully integrated as a breakfast bar for four people, improving the kitchen’s social function and reinforcing its role as a central living space. The result is a kitchen that prioritizes spatial efficiency, material clarity, and functional precision, transforming a previously constrained space into a calm, modern, and highly usable architectural environment. Español La remodelación de esta cocina se centró en transformar un espacio visualmente saturado y espacialmente ineficiente en un entorno funcional, claro y arquitectónicamente coherente. La cocina original se percibía oscura, sobrecargada y limitada, lo que afectaba tanto su uso cotidiano como la calidad espacial. Una decisión clave fue reubicar el refrigerador en el patio adyacente, el cual funciona como una extensión natural de la cocina. Esta intervención permitió liberar superficie de trabajo, mejorar la circulación y generar una percepción mucho mayor de amplitud. La selección de materiales respondió a la preferencia de la clienta por tonos neutros y atemporales, incorporando cubiertas de cuarzo blanco, gabinetes en tonos grises y acentos en madera cálida, creando un equilibrio visual y continuidad espacial. La carpintería diseñada a medida es un elemento central del proyecto. Los gabinetes superiores con frentes de vidrio e iluminación interior aportan ligereza visual y profundidad, mientras que los especieros ocultos integrados en el backsplash, mediante puertas corredizas, optimizan la funcionalidad sin generar ruido visual. La iluminación bajo gabinetes mejora la ergonomía del espacio y aporta una iluminación ambiental cálida que refuerza la claridad de las superficies. La instalación de parrilla y horno independientes, en lugar de una estufa convencional, contribuye a una expresión más limpia y contemporánea. La barra existente fue rediseñada y plenamente integrada como desayunador para cuatro personas, fortaleciendo el carácter social de la cocina y ampliando su funcionalidad. El resultado es una cocina que prioriza la eficiencia espacial, la claridad material y la precisión funcional, transformando un espacio previamente limitado en un entorno contemporáneo, sereno y altamente funcional.

This is the story about a kitchen that was showing it’s age with white countertops and dark oak cabinets on a dark oak floor. It all worked once, but now the kitchen felt dark, cramped and dysfunctional. The owners were looking for a total kitchen transformation. After a disastrous beginning with a contractor taking their money and vanishing into thin air, the owners were left with a completely gutted kitchen that consisted of only the walls. They hired Rick Jacobson to rescue them and restart the project. The new kitchen design began with the idea of using Cobalt Blue as a primary color. The blue seen on many glassware pieces is Cobalt Blue, and it was decided to use it in the tile for the kitchen, as well as the pendant lights. Another goal was to make the kitchen brighter with an easier traffic flow, as well as completely updated cabinetry. And there were traffic patterns to improve, a refrigerator to move, and exhaust vents to reroute. Rick Jacobson listened to the owners and worked to create the kitchen that the owners imagined. He began by thinking through the traffic flow patterns. He noted that the doorway from the dining room needed to be widened. He added rounded doorway headers to match the home’s existing décor. He carefully thought through where the kitchen island should be, including how opening the oven doors would be in relation to people sitting at the kitchen island at a family gathering. Kitchen cabinet touches include off edge flat panel doors, soft close wooden drawers, and a spice cabinet with two slide-out racks. The new longer center island features a drawer microwave that opens and closes automatically with the push of a button. The center island also features two recycling bins and seating for four. Rick even thought of adding decorative elements to the existing half wall to make it look in line with the kitchen island. The kitchen’s black granite countertops offer an unusually appealing view: There are lots of interesting reflections throughout the kitchen. Another of Rick’s touches is that all of the lights, including recessed ceiling lights, three cobalt blue pendant lights and below cabinet lights are on dimmers which work to balance daytime and nighttime lighting. The under mounted stainless steel single sink is complemented with a gooseneck faucet. The stainless steel gas range is thin enough to allow for a wide drawer below for utensils, and the stainless steel vent hood is vented through the ceiling to outdoors, allowing additional storage space in the top cabinets. Double ovens with white doors are the perfect match to the cabinets, with a location that makes baking and roasting easier with the two large vertical storage for baking sheets and supplies nearby. The result: A functional, open, bright and Cobalt blue kitchen.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, GRAND AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KTICHEN $80,001 -$120,000 This Old Town Alexandria home was ready for a major kitchen renovation. After 20 years of putting up with the dark, short cabinets and a dysfunctional traffic pattern and layout, the owners were ready to roll up their sleeves and throw this kitchen out the window. Design challenges include a peninsula that was too big for the space, appliance locations that were all over, a stackable washer and dryer in the middle of the kitchen and a lack of storage. The first step toward a remodeling solution was to move the washer and dryer to a new lower level laundry area. That created space for a new built-in refrigerator, microwave/oven cabinet, pantry and angular end cabinets. This move also created more room on the walls of kitchen for added cabinetry and countertops. The cook top was moved to one of the walls with a custom wood hood over it. Having removed the old bulkheads, there was space for taller cabinets and some glass front cabinetry (with inside lights) to display china. Large crown molding, along with big arched valances, legs and corbels made this brushed stoke custom cabinetry really stand out. A big knee wall and a middle post made the breakfast room too closed in and separated from adjacent family room. By installing a couple of structural beams, the space was opened up and dressed up with a large arch opening to replicate the front hall columns. Similarly, the front door separating the front hall to the kitchen was taken off, widened and then had the same panel arch treatment done. Now all the doorways in the home have a very classy, yet sophisticated detailed molding. A previously wasted corner area is now home to a custom hutch cabinet. The middle island, not only improved the traffic flow, but also dressed up this kitchen with its furniture look. The expansion of hardwood flooring, from the front hall into the kitchen and beyond, created a seamless transition to the entire first floor. Use of this highly custom brushed stroke glazed cabinetry in a soft vanilla tone complemented the uniqueness of a slab of granite. The light color tumbled marble backsplash made the glazing of this cabinetry stand out. The transformation of this kitchen was so incredible that no one believes the before photos.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, GRAND AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KTICHEN $80,001 -$120,000 This Old Town Alexandria home was ready for a major kitchen renovation. After 20 years of putting up with the dark, short cabinets and a dysfunctional traffic pattern and layout, the owners were ready to roll up their sleeves and throw this kitchen out the window. Design challenges include a peninsula that was too big for the space, appliance locations that were all over, a stackable washer and dryer in the middle of the kitchen and a lack of storage. The first step toward a remodeling solution was to move the washer and dryer to a new lower level laundry area. That created space for a new built-in refrigerator, microwave/oven cabinet, pantry and angular end cabinets. This move also created more room on the walls of kitchen for added cabinetry and countertops. The cook top was moved to one of the walls with a custom wood hood over it. Having removed the old bulkheads, there was space for taller cabinets and some glass front cabinetry (with inside lights) to display china. Large crown molding, along with big arched valances, legs and corbels made this brushed stoke custom cabinetry really stand out. A big knee wall and a middle post made the breakfast room too closed in and separated from adjacent family room. By installing a couple of structural beams, the space was opened up and dressed up with a large arch opening to replicate the front hall columns. Similarly, the front door separating the front hall to the kitchen was taken off, widened and then had the same panel arch treatment done. Now all the doorways in the home have a very classy, yet sophisticated detailed molding. A previously wasted corner area is now home to a custom hutch cabinet. The middle island, not only improved the traffic flow, but also dressed up this kitchen with its furniture look. The expansion of hardwood flooring, from the front hall into the kitchen and beyond, created a seamless transition to the entire first floor. Use of this highly custom brushed stroke glazed cabinetry in a soft vanilla tone complemented the uniqueness of a slab of granite. The light color tumbled marble backsplash made the glazing of this cabinetry stand out. The transformation of this kitchen was so incredible that no one believes the before photos.

Miele Appliances at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center 26767 Agoura Road, Calabasas, CA 91302 Phone 818.880.0011 Fax 818.880.0411 12050 Ventura Blvd.,Studio City, CA 91604 Phone 818.755.1111 Fax 818.755.9111 www.uakc.com Miele Generation 6000 is bringing design and innovation that exceed expectations. It includes two distinct design styles - PureLine and ContourLine - as well as several color options including Brilliant White and Truffle Brown. Design for Miele is not simply the exterior. Like the design principle, form follows function; the true beauty of the Generation 6000 series is highlighted by its intuitive user interface, which ensures unsurpassed performance and convenience in the kitchen. With these new color options and the uniform design of the Generation 6000 series, Miele has created a series of appliances that will seamlessly integrate into any kitchen or lifestyle. Whether appliances are installed vertically, horizontally, as a square or in a T-shape configuration, the design is fully resolved. M Touch – Top-class technology with a special touch Whether it’s creating a double cappuccino at the touch of a single button, finding the desired MasterChef automatic program on the Combi-Steam Oven in an instant or selecting the operating mode and temperature in just a few simple steps – Miele eliminates the guesswork. All of these operations are easier than ever because of M Touch. Reminiscent of smart phones and tablets, M Touch is an intuitive user interface that allows the user to swipe or scroll through the menu with the tip of a finger. A new high resolution control panel with white TFT (Thin Film Transistor) text brings a brilliant display. And because the interface is universal across all Gen 6000 appliances, the transition from appliance to appliance is easier than ever. Oven Innovations: Moisture Plus, Gourmet Center and MultiSteam Developed exclusively for Miele USA, Moisture Plus is a truly unique steam injection system featured in Miele M Touch 30” Convection Ovens. Moisture Plus automatically injects a burst of steam into the oven cavity at pre-determined points during the cooking process. The addition of moisture improves results when proofing dough, gives loaves of bread a crisp crust and glossy finish and makes cuts of meat particularly crisp on the outside and succulent inside. Also new to the 30” Convection Oven is the addition of MasterChef Plus programs. Ideal for the consummate baker at home, this exclusive new menu system houses 14 automatic bread programs and replicates results seen in artisan bakeries. Included are programs for sourdough, whole grain, rolls and baguettes. A pioneer in steam oven technology, Generation 6000 Steam and Combi-Steam Ovens are equipped with MultiSteam technology, a revolutionary new steam cooking generation. The addition of six steam inlets in the Steam Oven and eight steam inlets in the Combi-Steam Oven, delivers fast, even steam distribution and incredibly quick heat-up times for even cooking results through a more powerful steam generator. Long regarded for its ingredient-driven menu, Miele MasterChef programs are now located within the Gourmet Center. Choose from more than 100 easy to use programs for grains, vegetables, meats, fish and poultry. At just the touch of a button, the program will deliver menu options that guide the user step by step - from the desired oven mode to temperature - all resulting in the perfect dish. Generation 6000 Coffee Systems impress with comfort and innovation There are several new highlights to the Generation 6000 Whole Bean Coffee System including a new CupSensor, EasyClick Milk System and One Touch for Two features. Exclusive to Miele, the CupSensor automatically adjusts the height of the spout to the optimum position for different cup and glass sizes. Whether a tall latté macchiato or a dainty espresso is being prepared, the central spout automatically adjusts to the cup’s rim and eliminates splashing. The CupSensor even reacts precisely to beverages made with milk by raising the spout slightly to make room for the incoming espresso. Also new is the EasyClick milk system which is a dishwasher safe glass, milk flask that effortlessly clicks into place at the front of the machine. And for easy maintenance, the new Miele Coffee Systems now automatically rinse all milk spouts and hoses with water after each use. The One Touch for Two feature allows the user to prepare two coffee specialties such as cappuccino and latté macchiato at the same time, thus reducing prep time when two or more drinks are being served. Miele Generation 6000 series is distinguished by its elegant design and remarkable innovations to deliver unmatched results that can be seen, touched and tasted. German engineered and tested to last 20 years, Generation 6000 reinforces the Miele Design for Life philosophy and solidifies Miele at the forefront of residential culinary appliances.

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW As with most projects, it all started with the kitchen layout. The home owners came to us wanting to upgrade their kitchen and overall aesthetic in their suburban home, with a combination of fresh paint, updated finishes, and improved flow for more ease when doing everyday activities. A monochromatic, earth-toned palette left the kitchen feeling uninspired. It lacked the brightness they wanted from their space. An eat-in table underutilized the available square footage. The butler’s pantry was out of the way and hard to access, and the dining room felt detached from the kitchen. Lead Designer, Stephanie Cole, saw an improved layout for the spaces that were no longer working for this family. By eliminating an existing wall between the kitchen and dining room, and relocating the bar area to the dining room, we opened up the kitchen, providing all the space we needed to create a dreamy and functional layout. A new perimeter configuration promoted circulation while also making space for a large and functional island loaded with seating – a must for any family. Because an island that isn’t big enough for everyone (and a few more) is a recipe for disaster. The light white cabinetry is fresh and contrasts with the deeper tones in the wood flooring, creating a modern aesthetic that is elevated, yet approachable for everyday living. With better flow as the overarching goal, we made some structural changes too. To remove a bottleneck in the entryway, we angled one of the dining room walls to create more natural separation between rooms and facilitate ease of movement throughout the large space. At The Kitchen Studio, we believe a well-designed kitchen uses every square inch to the fullest. By starting from scratch, it was possible to rethink the entire kitchen layout and design the space according to how it is used, because the kitchen shouldn’t make it harder to feed the family. A new location for the existing range, flanked by a new column refrigerator and freezer on each side, worked to anchor the space. The very large and very spacious island (a dream island if we do say so ourselves) now houses the primary sink and provides ample space for food prep and family gathering. The new kitchen table and coordinating banquette seating provide a cozy nook for quick breakfasts before school or work, and evening homework sessions. Elegant gold details catch the natural light, elevating the aesthetic. The dining room was transformed into one of this client’s favorite spaces and we couldn’t agree more. We saw an opportunity to give the dining room a more distinguished identity by closing off the entrance from the foyer. The relocated wet bar enhances the sophisticated vibe of this gathering space, complete with beautiful antique mirror tiles and open shelving encased by moody built-in cabinets. Updated furnishings add warmth. A rich walnut table is paired with custom chairs in a muted coral fabric. The large, transitional chandelier grounds the room, pairing beautifully with the gold finishes prevalent in the faucet and cabinet hardware. Linen-inspired wallpaper and cream-toned window treatments add to the glamorous feel of this entertainment space. There is no way around it. The laundry room was cramped. The large washer and dryer blocked access to the sink and left little room for the space to serve its other essential function – as a mudroom. Because we reworked the kitchen layout to create more space overall, we could rethink the mudroom too – an essential for any busy family. The first step was moving the washer and dryer to an existing area on the second floor, where most of the family’s laundry lives (no one wants to carry laundry up and down the stairs if they don’t have to anyway). This is a more functional solution and opened up the space for all the mudroom necessities – including the existing kitchen refrigerator, loads of built-in cubbies, and a bench. It’s hard to not fall in love with every detail of a new space, especially when it serves your day-to-day life. But that doesn’t mean the clients didn’t have their favorite features they use on the daily. This remodel was focused largely on function with a new kitchen layout. And it’s the functional features that have the biggest impact. The large island provides much needed workspace in the kitchen and is a spot where everyone gathers together – it grounds the space and the family. And the custom counter stools are the icing on the cake. The nearby mudroom has everything their previous space was lacking – ample storage, space for everyone’s essentials, and the beloved cement floor tiles that are both durable and artistic.

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.”

Jarrett Design is grateful for repeat clients, especially when they have impeccable taste. In this case, we started with their guest bath. An antique-inspired, hand-pegged vanity from our Nest collection, in hand-planed quarter-sawn cherry with metal capped feet, sets the tone. Calcutta Gold marble warms the room while being complimented by a white marble top and traditional backsplash. Polished nickel fixtures, lighting, and hardware selected by the client add elegance. A special bathroom for special guests. Next on the list were the laundry area, bar and fireplace. The laundry area greets those who enter through the casual back foyer of the home. It also backs up to the kitchen and breakfast nook. The clients wanted this area to be as beautiful as the other areas of the home and the visible washer and dryer were detracting from their vision. They also were hoping to allow this area to serve double duty as a buffet when they were entertaining. So, the decision was made to hide the washer and dryer with pocket doors. The new cabinetry had to match the existing wall cabinets in style and finish, which is no small task. Our Nest artist came to the rescue. A five-piece soapstone sink and distressed counter top complete the space with a nod to the past. Our clients wished to add a beverage refrigerator to the existing bar. The wall cabinets were kept in place again. Inspired by a beloved antique corner cupboard also in this sitting room, we decided to use stained cabinetry for the base and refrigerator panel. Soapstone was used for the top and new fireplace surround, bringing continuity from the nearby back foyer. Last, but definitely not least, the kitchen, banquette and powder room were addressed. The clients removed a glass door in lieu of a wide window to create a cozy breakfast nook featuring a Nest banquette base and table. Brackets for the bench were designed in keeping with the traditional details of the home. A handy drawer was incorporated. The double vase pedestal table with breadboard ends seats six comfortably. The powder room was updated with another antique reproduction vanity and beautiful vessel sink. While the kitchen was beautifully done, it was showing its age and functional improvements were desired. This room, like the laundry room, was a project that included existing cabinetry mixed with matching new cabinetry. Precision was necessary. For better function and flow, the cooking surface was relocated from the island to the side wall. Instead of a cooktop with separate wall ovens, the clients opted for a pro style range. These design changes not only make prepping and cooking in the space much more enjoyable, but also allow for a wood hood flanked by bracketed glass cabinets to act a gorgeous focal point. Other changes included removing a small desk in lieu of a dresser style counter height base cabinet. This provided improved counter space and storage. The new island gave better storage, uninterrupted counter space and a perch for the cook or company. Calacatta Gold quartz tops are complimented by a natural limestone floor. A classic apron sink and faucet along with thoughtful cabinetry details are the icing on the cake. Don’t miss the clients’ fabulous collection of serving and display pieces! We told you they have impeccable taste!

Relationship: Client Project Date: March 2014 Project Price Range: more than $100,000 Having purchased our first house in Valley Glen, North Hollywood, we were aware it was in need of serious remodeling. A 1950s Ranch-style home, it came complete with peeling wallpaper, musty carpeting, and even some dilapidated walls. As first-time homeowners we were prepared to spend more money to improve it, but weary when we began meeting contractors. Buyer’s remorse already set in when we interviewed several contractors who were either aloof or unscrupulous. Then we were fortunate enough to find Mike Ross. He immediately allayed our stress with his professional and forthright demeanor and his integrity was as rock solid from the day we met him through the several months it took to complete our large renovation. While we had some specific things we wanted in our house, Mike and his team took our wish list and far exceeded our expectations to help truly realize the vision of our dream. Originally a three-bedroom, fourteen-hundred square foot home, our remodel brought an addition of a thousand square feet as well as an overhaul of the landscape; this prospect was particularly daunting for uninitiated owners such as us, but Mike’s consummate professionalism shone through and made the task exponentially less stressful for us. As well as a new 850 sf Master Bedroom, including a fireplace, and a steam unit in the bath, we added a cozy home theater room, laundry room, and the once forgotten backyard brought a new deck and patio with a trellis. Furthermore, because we went green and made it a smart home, we’re already more energy efficient. In several rooms, as well as the main hallway, for example, Mike installed solar tubes and the amount of natural light that bathes the house is amazing. Even my mom, when she came to visit, was always looking for a light-switch. As our contractor, Mike Ross took the reins to steer the project and keep it on course and he did so exceptionally. Mike and his team were as attentive to the quality of every nook and corner and he always sought our approval and happiness. Consistently communicative, he always kept us in the loop about progress and was always there to answer any questions and concerns. When an unforeseen contingency did arise, Mike assuaged our concerns by taking action ASAP to rectify the problem. Mike’s team, too, all take pleasure in their efforts. An eclectic group of skilled artisans and craftsmen, they are all polite, punctual, and proud of their work. Thank you, Mike Ross, for your outstanding leadership, your impeccable standards, and your commitment to our happiness. Dale & Helen Keis

Example of a trendy bathroom design in Milwaukee

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, GRAND AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KTICHEN $80,001 -$120,000 This Old Town Alexandria home was ready for a major kitchen renovation. After 20 years of putting up with the dark, short cabinets and a dysfunctional traffic pattern and layout, the owners were ready to roll up their sleeves and throw this kitchen out the window. Design challenges include a peninsula that was too big for the space, appliance locations that were all over, a stackable washer and dryer in the middle of the kitchen and a lack of storage. The first step toward a remodeling solution was to move the washer and dryer to a new lower level laundry area. That created space for a new built-in refrigerator, microwave/oven cabinet, pantry and angular end cabinets. This move also created more room on the walls of kitchen for added cabinetry and countertops. The cook top was moved to one of the walls with a custom wood hood over it. Having removed the old bulkheads, there was space for taller cabinets and some glass front cabinetry (with inside lights) to display china. Large crown molding, along with big arched valances, legs and corbels made this brushed stoke custom cabinetry really stand out. A big knee wall and a middle post made the breakfast room too closed in and separated from adjacent family room. By installing a couple of structural beams, the space was opened up and dressed up with a large arch opening to replicate the front hall columns. Similarly, the front door separating the front hall to the kitchen was taken off, widened and then had the same panel arch treatment done. Now all the doorways in the home have a very classy, yet sophisticated detailed molding. A previously wasted corner area is now home to a custom hutch cabinet. The middle island, not only improved the traffic flow, but also dressed up this kitchen with its furniture look. The expansion of hardwood flooring, from the front hall into the kitchen and beyond, created a seamless transition to the entire first floor. Use of this highly custom brushed stroke glazed cabinetry in a soft vanilla tone complemented the uniqueness of a slab of granite. The light color tumbled marble backsplash made the glazing of this cabinetry stand out. The transformation of this kitchen was so incredible that no one believes the before photos.

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern u-shaped gray floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Austin with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, black backsplash, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

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2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, GRAND AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KTICHEN $80,001 -$120,000 This Old Town Alexandria home was ready for a major kitchen renovation. After 20 years of putting up with the dark, short cabinets and a dysfunctional traffic pattern and layout, the owners were ready to roll up their sleeves and throw this kitchen out the window. Design challenges include a peninsula that was too big for the space, appliance locations that were all over, a stackable washer and dryer in the middle of the kitchen and a lack of storage. The first step toward a remodeling solution was to move the washer and dryer to a new lower level laundry area. That created space for a new built-in refrigerator, microwave/oven cabinet, pantry and angular end cabinets. This move also created more room on the walls of kitchen for added cabinetry and countertops. The cook top was moved to one of the walls with a custom wood hood over it. Having removed the old bulkheads, there was space for taller cabinets and some glass front cabinetry (with inside lights) to display china. Large crown molding, along with big arched valances, legs and corbels made this brushed stoke custom cabinetry really stand out. A big knee wall and a middle post made the breakfast room too closed in and separated from adjacent family room. By installing a couple of structural beams, the space was opened up and dressed up with a large arch opening to replicate the front hall columns. Similarly, the front door separating the front hall to the kitchen was taken off, widened and then had the same panel arch treatment done. Now all the doorways in the home have a very classy, yet sophisticated detailed molding. A previously wasted corner area is now home to a custom hutch cabinet. The middle island, not only improved the traffic flow, but also dressed up this kitchen with its furniture look. The expansion of hardwood flooring, from the front hall into the kitchen and beyond, created a seamless transition to the entire first floor. Use of this highly custom brushed stroke glazed cabinetry in a soft vanilla tone complemented the uniqueness of a slab of granite. The light color tumbled marble backsplash made the glazing of this cabinetry stand out. The transformation of this kitchen was so incredible that no one believes the before photos.

Effectively maintaining your landscape and trees take a good amount of time and effort. Often, homeowners will delay trimming or pruning their trees out of laziness or simply because they don’t know how to correctly care of their trees. But, you should know that tree trimming should be at the top of your to-do list for many reasons. Pruning, proper maintenance, and fertilization are all critical if you want the trees in your yard to thrive to grow strong. For homeowners that are unable to handle the tasks on their own, our professional tree trimming service can help. Five Star Tree Services has put together a list of the top three reasons why you need to trim your trees on a regular basis. Healthier Trees Regular tree trimming will keep your trees in their best health while also promoting growth. Sometimes trees may have dead or broken branches, removing them prevents decay and can even prevent an infection from spreading. If you leave damaged or rotting branches on your tree, it can spread the condition to other parts of the tree or even to other trees in the area. When you prune your tree on a regular basis, it also promotes the growth of new leaves and branches. Reducing the thickness of the leaves and branches also opens up the inner part of the tree to the sun. Furthermore, air circulation is critical for a healthy tree and regular trimming ensures that your tree always has access to the fresh oxygen it needs to thrive. The healthier your tree is the better quality oxygen it will produce for the surrounding area. Improve Property Value Well-kept trees greatly improve the aesthetics of your home. Decaying branches or trees that are overgrown are not only unsightly and dangerous, but they can also have a negative impact on the curb appeal of your house. If your house is on the market, seeing an unkempt yard with untrimmed trees can leave potential buyers with a negative perception of your property. Keeping your trees trimmed and neat show that you care about your home and how it looks. Work hard for your property and it will turn the best profit when you finally sell. Prevent Environmental Damage Tree branches that are rotting or weak pose a safety hazard to your home and your family. Dead limbs or even overburdened are more likely to fall off of the tree and strike your home. There have been plenty of reports of dead or overly heavy branches suddenly falling on people as well. Trees that grow close to power lines also pose a threat if they are not trimmed on a regular basis. Limbs can grow too high or too long causing them to brush against the power lines. This may trigger a fire or even a power outage. Sick trees with limbs that are diseased are more likely to cause the entire tree to tip over. This can cause damage to your home, vehicles, or even a person if they are unlucky. How Five Star Tree Services Can Help If you are not sure about how or when to trim your trees, Five Star Tree Services is here to help. We offer a wide range of Toronto Tree Trim Services and pruning services for both commercial and residential locations. Our passionate team of tree care experts will keep your property safe and ensure that your trees are beautiful and can continue to grow in a healthy state. Give us a call at (416) 990-3355 to find out more information about the services we offer.

James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding Replacement — Littleton, Colorado Project Summary: Complete exterior transformation using James Hardie HardiePlank fiber cement siding in Light Mist with coordinating Arctic White trim. Installation completed to Elite Preferred Contractor specifications, qualifying for full 30-year James Hardie product warranty and 15-year ColorPlus finish warranty. Materials Installed: • James Hardie HardiePlank lap siding — Light Mist ColorPlus finish • James Hardie trim and fascia — Arctic White • Complete soffit integration with proper ventilation • All flashing and water management details engineered to specification Design & Aesthetic: The Light Mist finish delivers a modern, sophisticated palette that complements Littleton's residential character. Arctic White trim creates crisp architectural definition and visual separation between walls and roof lines. The clean horizontal profile of HardiePlank lap siding provides classic curb appeal with contemporary minimalism. Why Fiber Cement for Littleton Homes: Littleton experiences Colorado's signature freeze-thaw climate — repeated daily temperature swings that challenge standard siding materials. James Hardie HZ5 formulation is engineered specifically for Colorado's elevation and weather extremes. The fiber cement composite is dimensionally stable through thousands of freeze-thaw cycles, resists moisture absorption and rot, and meets fire-resistant requirements for increasing home value and insurance considerations. ColorPlus Technology: The factory-applied ColorPlus finish is kiln-baked and UV-stabilized at the manufacturing facility — not field-painted. It resists fading, peeling, and chalking through 15+ years of Colorado's intense sun exposure. The warranty is realistic for Littleton's altitude and climate, not national averages. Installation Quality: This project was installed by 5280 Exteriors, a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor. Elite Preferred status requires verified installation quality, ongoing manufacturer training, and demonstrated track record. Only Elite Preferred Contractors can issue the full 30-year product warranty and 15-year ColorPlus warranty. Standard installation does not qualify. Performance Advantages: • Zero maintenance required — no annual painting, staining, or sealing • Non-combustible material — meets fire-resistant standards • Engineered for Colorado's freeze-thaw climate zones • 30-year product warranty (Elite Preferred installation) • 15-year ColorPlus finish warranty • Increases resale value in competitive Littleton market • Improves energy efficiency through proper wall air sealing Before & After Transformation: The before condition shows aging, weathered siding. The after transformation reveals a modern exterior with clean lines, architectural definition, and premium material quality. The Light Mist and Arctic White palette creates a cohesive, intentional aesthetic that enhances the home's curb appeal and overall property value. About This Project: Location: Littleton, Colorado (South Denver Metro) Scope: Full siding replacement Materials: James Hardie HardiePlank fiber cement Colors: Light Mist (walls) + Arctic White (trim) Installation: Elite Preferred Contractor specification Warranty: 30-year product + 15-year finish Contractor: 5280 Exteriors 5280 Exteriors is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor serving Littleton, Denver metro, South Denver, and Colorado's Front Range. We specialize in premium exterior remodeling including fiber cement siding, energy-efficient windows, roofing systems, and composite decking. Our team has 20+ years of experience with Colorado's high-altitude and challenging climate conditions.

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home. This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout. The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan. This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets. Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams. The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools. Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking. To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter. The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination. The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close. Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry. The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door. Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room. Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look. The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses! Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space. This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made. If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

Victorian tiles are very hard-wearing and historically a popular choice for heavy traffic areas such as hallways. Still popular today they are nonetheless like most tiles and can become ingrained with dirt over time. This particular floor, located in a property in the old market town of Tewkesbury is a good example of a floor that was in good physical condition, but heavily ingrained with dirt due to a lack of regular maintenance. At a loss for how to remedy the situation by themselves, the property owner asked me to pay a visit to restore the tiles back to their best possible condition. In this particular scenario, I opted to mix and apply a solution of different cleaning products from our professional range, each serving a different purpose. These products were Tile Doctor Pro Clean, Tile Doctor Remove and Go, and Tile Doctor NanoTech HBU. Remove and Go serves the purpose of stripping away any old sealer on the tiles, while Pro Clean is an alkaline cleaner that reliably removes dirt and staining. NanoTech HBU is a particularly powerful cleaner which utilises nano-sized particles to penetrate deep into the pores of the stone, get underneath difficult stains and lift them out. I spread this potent solution across the length and width of the tiled hallway and left it to soak for approximately 10 minutes, before using a black scrubbing pad fitted to my buffing machine to give the tiles a deep scrub. Next, I rinsed the soiled solution away and neutralised the chemicals with plain water, before extracting any residue using a wet vacuum. I repeated the cleaning process several times to achieve the best results possible, and I also employed the aid of a steam cleaner to spot clean any particularly stubborn marks. Cleaning the floor took two days in total. At the end of the second day, I gave the floor a thorough and final rinse before leaving it to dry completely overnight. The next day, I returned to the property to seal the floor after checking the floor was dry. Ensuring before sealing that the floor is completely dry is crucial – even the smallest quantity of moisture remaining can potentially cloud the sealer and damage its performance. My choice of sealer was Tile Doctor Colour Grow, an impregnating sealer that penetrates and fills the pores of the tile to prevent trapped dirt and makes regular cleaning much easier. Colour Grow is a great choice of sealer for Victorian tiles because it really enhances the colourful patterns which are characteristic of this type of tile. My customer was very impressed with the service and remarked on the huge improvement to the appearance of the floor. You can see this for yourself – just take a look at the before and after photos! Malcolm Crowther Gloucester Tile Doctor

Newer Homes Need Makeovers Too Yes, it’s true. The new home that you purchased not that long ago needs a makeover. It feels like just yesterday that you just moved in and are still settling into your new space. But the fact is, it’s already time to remodel. Homes that were built in the early 2000’s and even later are depreciating in value, aesthetically speaking. Kitchens and Baths are the top two culprits. When our clients decided to move back to the New England area in 2012, they chose East Greenwich, RI as their destination. A quaint, centered town with an excellent school system that’s just 45 minutes to Boston and 3 hours to Manhattan (or a quick 40min direct flight). The 5-bedroom colonial they purchased was originally built in 1997, which at the time was only 15 years old. But they knew going into it that, eventually, they would have to make necessary updates for a higher return on investment. In 2017, our clients came to Red House to help them reach their remodeling goals. The two focus areas were the outdated kitchen and a double entry full bathroom located on the second floor. The Red House design team got to work and presented a few design concepts that met our clients’ needs. After a bit of tweaking and refining of details, a fabulous yet functional space was created. In the kitchen, traditional maple cabinets were replaced with linen white shaker style cabinets, making the space feel open and airy. An extra-large island was designed with added seating at one end, ideal for entertaining while the cooktop was replaced with a range and was relocated to a perimeter wall for ease of use. Complimenting the linen white cabinetry, cherry cabinets were used in bar area creating a nice contrast. Taking advantage of the soaring cathedral ceilings, outdated light fixtures were swapped out with 3 large hanging glass pendants by Kichler giving off more light. Granite countertops in River White were installed throughout and venetian bronze hardware by Baldwin was added to support uniformity and consistency. The wall color used was Sherman Williams Agreeable Gray. Upstairs, the full bathroom is accessed from two separate entries, similar to that of a Jack and Jill layout. New custom white vanities with Quartz countertops in Calcutta Classique were installed at each of the two entrances. A glass shower was installed with white Carrara marble tile and natural slate floors. Polished nickel fixtures and hardware were used creating a classic look. The wall color used was Benjamin Moore Oyster Shell. Visit our website for more information! Photo Credit: Aaron Usher Photography Instagram: @redhousedesignbuild