When Cummings Architects first met with the owners of this understated country farmhouse, the building’s layout and design was an incoherent jumble. The original bones of the building were almost unrecognizable. All of the original windows, doors, flooring, and trims – even the country kitchen – had been removed. Mathew and his team began a thorough design discovery process to find the design solution that would enable them to breathe life back into the old farmhouse in a way that acknowledged the building’s venerable history while also providing for a modern living by a growing family. The redesign included the addition of a new eat-in kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, wrap around porch, and stone fireplaces. To begin the transforming restoration, the team designed a generous, twenty-four square foot kitchen addition with custom, farmers-style cabinetry and timber framing. The team walked the homeowners through each detail the cabinetry layout, materials, and finishes. Salvaged materials were used and authentic craftsmanship lent a sense of place and history to the fabric of the space. The new master suite included a cathedral ceiling showcasing beautifully worn salvaged timbers. The team continued with the farm theme, using sliding barn doors to separate the custom-designed master bath and closet. The new second-floor hallway features a bold, red floor while new transoms in each bedroom let in plenty of light. A summer stair, detailed and crafted with authentic details, was added for additional access and charm. Finally, a welcoming farmer’s porch wraps around the side entry, connecting to the rear yard via a gracefully engineered grade. This large outdoor space provides seating for large groups of people to visit and dine next to the beautiful outdoor landscape and the new exterior stone fireplace. Though it had temporarily lost its identity, with the help of the team at Cummings Architects, this lovely farmhouse has regained not only its former charm but also a new life through beautifully integrated modern features designed for today’s family. Photo by Eric Roth

Looking at this home today, you would never know that the project began as a poorly maintained duplex. Luckily, the homeowners saw past the worn façade and engaged our team to uncover and update the Victorian gem that lay underneath. Taking special care to preserve the historical integrity of the 100-year-old floor plan, we returned the home back to its original glory as a grand, single family home. The project included many renovations, both small and large, including the addition of a a wraparound porch to bring the façade closer to the street, a gable with custom scrollwork to accent the new front door, and a more substantial balustrade. Windows were added to bring in more light and some interior walls were removed to open up the public spaces to accommodate the family’s lifestyle. You can read more about the transformation of this home in Old House Journal: http://www.cummingsarchitects.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Old-House-Journal-Dec.-2009.pdf Photo Credit: Eric Roth

Photo by Jody Dole This was a fast-track design-build project which began design in July and ended construction before Christmas. The scope included additions and first and second floor renovations. The house is an early 1900’s gambrel style with painted wood shingle siding and mission style detailing. On the first and second floor we removed previously constructed awkward additions and extended the gambrel style roof to make room for a large kitchen on the first floor and a master bathroom and bedroom on the second floor. We also added two new dormers to match the existing dormers to bring light into the master shower and new bedroom. We refinished the wood floors, repainted all of the walls and trim, added new vintage style light fixtures, and created a new half and kid’s bath. We also added new millwork features to continue the existing level of detail and texture within the house. A wrap-around covered porch with a corner trellis was also added, which provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the back-yard. A wonderful project!

A little girls room with a pale pink ceiling and pale gray wainscoat This fast pace second level addition in Lakeview has received a lot of attention in this quite neighborhood by neighbors and house visitors. Ana Borden designed the second level addition on this previous one story residence and drew from her experience completing complicated multi-million dollar institutional projects. The overall project, including designing the second level addition included tieing into the existing conditions in order to preserve the remaining exterior lot for a new pool. The Architect constructed a three dimensional model in Revit to convey to the Clients the design intent while adhering to all required building codes. The challenge also included providing roof slopes within the allowable existing chimney distances, stair clearances, desired room sizes and working with the structural engineer to design connections and structural member sizes to fit the constraints listed above. Also, extensive coordination was required for the second addition, including supports designed by the structural engineer in conjunction with the existing pre and post tensioned slab. The Architect’s intent was also to create a seamless addition that appears to have been part of the existing residence while not impacting the remaining lot. Overall, the final construction fulfilled the Client’s goals of adding a bedroom and bathroom as well as additional storage space within their time frame and, of course, budget. Smart Media

The owners of this kitchen had spent the money to upgrade the finishes in their kitchen upon building the home 12 years ago, but after living in the space for several years they realized how nonfunctional the layout really was. The (then) two preschool aged children had grown into busy, hungry teenagers with many friends who also liked to hang out at the house. So the family needed a more functional kitchen with better traffic flow, space for daily activities revolving around the kitchen at different times of day, and a kitchen that could accommodate cooking for and serving large groups. Furthermore, the dark, traditional finishes no longer reflected the homeowners’ style. They requested a brighter, more relaxed, coastal style that reflected their love of the seaside cities they like to visit. Originally, the kitchen was U-shaped with a narrow island in the middle. The island created narrow aisles that bottle-necked at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and cooktop areas. There was a pass-through from the foyer into the kitchen, but the owners never liked that the pass-through was also located so close to the powder room. The awkward proximity was unappealing and made guests feel uncomfortable. The kitchen’s storage was made up of lots of narrow cabinets, apothecary drawers, clipped corner units, and very few drawers. It lacked useful storage for the larger items the family used on a daily basis. And the kitchen’s only pantry was small closet that had only builder-grade, narrow shelving with no illumination to be able to see the contents inside. Overall, the kitchen’s lighting plan was poorly executed. Only six recessed cans illuminated the entire kitchen and nook areas. The under cabinet lighting was not evenly distributed either. In fact, the builder had mis-placed the under cabinet lighting around the decorative pilasters which made for choppy, dark cubbies. Further, the builder didn’t include any lighting over the sink or the bar area, which meant whoever was doing the dishes was always in their own shadow. That, coupled with the steep overhang of the game room above made the bar area feel like a dim, cavernous space that wasn’t inviting or task oriented. The kitchen looked out into the main living space, but the raised bar and a narrow wall (which held the only large cabinet in the kitchen) created more of a barrier than a relationship to the living room or breakfast nook. In fact, one couldn’t even see the breakfast nook from the cooktop or sink areas due to its orientation. The raised bar top was too narrow to comfortably sit to either dine at or chat from due to the lack of knee space. The the homeowners confided that the kitchen felt more like a dark, dirty prison than place where the family, or their guests, wanted to gather and commune. The clients' needs and desires were: ➢ to create a kitchen that would be a space the family loved to be in; to relate to the adjacent spaces all around, and to have better flow for entertaining large groups ➢ to remove the walls between the breakfast nook and living area and to be able to utilize the natural light from the windows in both those areas ➢ to incorporate a functional chopping block for prepping fresh food for home cooked meals, an island with a large sink and drain board, 2 pull out trash cans, and seating for at least the 2 teens to eat or do homework ➢ to design a kitchen and breakfast nook with an airy, coastal, relaxed vibe that blended with the rest of the house's coastal theme ➢ to integrate a layered lighting plan which would include ample general illumination, specific task lighting, decorative lighting, and lots of illuminated storage ➢ to design a kitchen with not only more storage for all the husband’s kitchen gadgets and collection of oils and spices, but smart storage, including a coffee/breakfast bar and a place to store and conceal the toaster oven and microwave ➢ to find a way to utilize the large open space between the kitchen, pantry area, and breakfast nook Twelve Stones Designs achieved the owner's goals by: ➢ removing the walls between the kitchen and living room to allow the natural light to filter in from the adjacent rooms and to create a connection between the kitchen, nook, and living spaces for a sense of unity and communion ➢ removing the existing pantry and designing 3 large pantry style cabinets with LED tape lights and rollout drawers to house lots of kitchen appliances, gadgets, and tons of groceries. We also took the cabinets all the way up to the 9’ ceiling for additional storage for seasonal items and bulk storage. ➢ designing 2 islands - 1 with a gorgeous black walnut chopping block that houses a drawer for chopping and carving knives and a custom double pull out trash unit for point of use utilization - and 1 that houses the dishwasher, a large Blanco Gourmet sink with integrated drain board, woven baskets for fresh root vegetables and kitchen towels, plenty of drawer storage for kitchen items, and bar seating for up to 4 diners. ➢ closing off the space between the kitchen and the powder room to create a beautiful new private alcove for the powder room as well as adding some decorative storage. This also gave us space to include more tall storage near the new range for precision placement of the husband’s extensive oil and spice collection as well as a location for a combo-steam oven the wife wanted for baking and cooking healthy meals. The project is enhanced functionally by: ➢ incorporated USB and standard receptacles for the kids’ laptops and phone charging in the large island ➢ designing the small island to include additional open shelving for items used on a daily basis such as a variety of bowls, plates, and colanders. This set up also works well for the husband who prefers to “plate” his dinners in restaurant-style fashion before presenting them to the table. ➢ the integration of specific storage units, such as double stacked cutlery drawers, a custom spice pull-out, a Kuerig coffee and tea pod drawer, and custom double stacked utensil drawers ➢ moving the refrigerator to the old oven location - this eliminated the bottle neck as well as created a better relationship to the eating table. It also utilizes the floor space between the pantry, nook, and kitchen ➢ creating a banquet style breakfast nook - this banquette seating not only doubles the amount of seating for large gatherings but it better utilizes the odd space between the kitchen and the previous nook area. It also helps to create a distinct pathway from the mudroom room through the pantry area, kitchen, nook, and living room. ➢ the coffee/breakfast bar area which includes the perfect location for the concealed microwave and toaster oven, convenient storage for the coffee pods and tea accoutrements. Roll-out drawers below also house the smoothie maker, hot water kettle, and a plethora of smoothie-making ingredients such as protein powders, smoothie additives, etc. Furthermore, the drawers below the Keurig house measuring utensil, cutlery, baking supplies and tupperware storage. ➢ incorporating lots of wide drawers and pullouts to accommodate large cookware. ➢ utilizing as much vertical space as possible by building storage to the ceiling which accommodates the family’s abundant amount of serving platters, baking sheets, bakeware, casserole dishes, and additional cutting boards. The project is enhanced aesthetically by: ➢ new 5-piece Versailles pattern porcelain tile that now seamlessly joins the entire down stairs area together creating a bright, cohesiveness feeling instead of choppy separated spaces - it also adds a coastal feeling ➢ designing a cabinet to conceal the microwave and toaster oven ➢ the coastal influenced light fixtures over the nook table and island ➢ the sandy colors of the Langdon Cambria countertops. The swirling pattern and sparkling quartz pieces remind the homeowner of black-and-tan sandy beaches ➢ the striped banquet seating whose creamy white background and blue-green stripes were the inspiration for the cabinet and wall colors. ➢ All the interior doors were painted black to coordinate with the blacks and grays in the backsplash tile and countertop. This also adds a hint of tailored formality to an otherwise casual space. ➢ the use of WAC's Oculux small aperture LED units for the overhead lighting complimented with Diode LED strips for task lighting under the cabinets and inside the pantry and glass wall cabinets. All of the lighting applications are on separate dimmer switches. Innovative uses of materials or construction methods by Realty Restoration LLC: ➢ Each 1-1/2” x 3” block of reclaimed end-grain black walnut that makes up the center island chopping block was hand milled and built in the shop. It was designed to look substantial and proportional to the surrounding elements, executed by creating the 4 inch tall top with a solid wood chamfered edge band. ➢ The metal doors on either side of the vent hood were also custom designed for this project and built in the Realty Restoration LLC shop. They are made 1x2, 11-gauge mild steel with ribbed glass. Weighing 60 lbs a piece, heavy duty cabinet hinges were added to support the weight of the door and keep them from sagging. ➢ Under-cabinet receptacles were added along the range wall in order to have a clean, uninterrupted backsplash. Design obstacles to overcome: ➢ Because we were removing the demising walls between the kitchen and living room, we had to find a way to plumb and vent the new island. We did this by tunneling through the slab (the slab had post tension cables which prevented us from just trenching) to run a new wet vent through a nearby structural wall. We pulled the existing hot and cold lines between upper floor joists and ran them down the structural wall as well and up through a conduit in the tunnel. ➢ Since we were converting from wall overs to a gas range it allowed us to utilize the 220 feed for the wall ovens to provide a new sub panel for all the new kitchen circuits ➢ Due to framing deficiencies inherited from the original build there was a 1-1/2” differential in the floor-to-ceiling height over a 20 foot span; by utilizing the process of cutting and furring coupled with the crown moulding details on the cabinet elevations we were able to mask the problem and provide seamless transitions between the cabinet components. Evidence of superior craftsmanship: ➢ uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind metal “X” end panels on the large island. The end panels were custom made in the Realty Restoration LLC shop and fitted to the exact dimensions of the island. The welding seams are completely indistinguishable - the posts look like they are cut from a single sheet of metal ➢ square metal posts on the small island were also custom made and designed to compliment and carry through the metal element s throughout the kitchen ➢ the beautiful, oversized end panels on the pantry cabinets which give the breakfast nook a tailored look ➢ integrating a large format 5 piece Versailles tile pattern to seamlessly flow from the existing spaces into the new kitchen space ➢ By constructing a custom cabinet that jogged around a corner we could not remodel (housing the entry way coat closet) we were able to camouflage the adjacent wall offset within the upper and lower cabinets. By designing around the existing jog in the structural walls we accomplished a few things: we were able to find the space to house, and hide, the microwave and toaster oven yet still have a clean cohesive appearance from the kitchen side. Additionally, the owners were able to keep their much needed coat closet and we didn’t have to increase the budget with unnecessary structural work.

Tessa Neustadt
Inspiration for a mid-sized farmhouse dark wood floor laundry room remodel in Los Angeles with shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, wood countertops, white walls, a stacked washer/dryer and beige countertops

The owner of this historic and landmarked town-home renovation in Hudson Square, originally built in 1826, hired Gallery Kitchen and Bath to fully gut-renovate this 3-unit row-home. The scope of work included a full-scale renovation of the owners unit, including the renovation of the kitchen, one 4-piece master ensuite bathroom, one 3-piece bathroom with a walk-in steam shower, and a beautiful powder room. Additional work in the owners unit also included flooring, electrical upgrade, major plumbing work, new HVAC system, restoration of a fireplace, installation of a fully integrated smart home system and landmarked approved windows. CELLAR RENOVATION IN NYC LANDMARKED TOWN-HOME Rounding out the owners unit we renovated the cellar, which was converted into an entertainment space and featured a custom glass curtain wall, along with a custom staircase with an exposed brick wall. During the demolition phase of the cellar, our team discovered 56 wine jugs filled with wine from the prohibition era, leading us to name this project the prohibition house. For the two tenant units, Gallery Kitchen and Bath undertook the renovation of 2 kitchens, 4 bathrooms, new hardwood flooring throughout, along with detailed carpentry work in the entire home. WHY GALLERY KITCHEN AND BATH After interviewing multiple contractors, our client decided on Gallery Kitchen and Bath primarily because of our turnkey design, selection, and build process. In a renovation of this magnitude it is crucial to have a centralized full service contractor under one roof to handle all of the aspects and simultaneous moving parts of the project. Decentralizing the entire process by having multiple unaffiliated vendors handle various parts of the process can easily become chaotic, time consuming, and costly. Because Gallery Kitchen and Bath undertook the entire process, from the design of the entire space to the selection and procurement of all finishes and fixtures, down to the procurement of all permits and LPC filings, it made a seemingly chaotic project a’lot more manageable. PHASE 1: DESIGN, SELECTION, PROCUREMENT Our client wanted the renovation to incorporate a fully modern design into his Hudson Square town-house. Being that this is a landmarked property, the exterior facade had to be restored and kept with the original aesthetic, the interior of the home however was a whole different story. In keeping up with the modern aesthetic, our designers went to work to design a custom kitchen that included fully custom flat panel base cabinets in a white high gloss finish and an absolute matte black appliance/pantry wall. The kitchen design also included a white quartz countertop and backsplash with a waterfall edge island. To bring warmth to the modern kitchen, our designers incorporated a rifted and quartered select oak wood floor in a herringbone pattern, and custom blended stain with matte polyurethane finish. For continuity, the wood floor was also extended throughout the entire owners unit. In the ensuite bathroom we created a “wet area” which houses a standalone soaking tub as well as a beautiful rainfall shower, completely leveled with the rest of the floor in the bathroom. Some highlights within this space include a tiled square drain, large niche cutouts with a carrera marble accents. Once again, to bring warmth to this modern bathroom, our designers incorporated a floating rustic oak vanity and carrera marble mosaic floor tile. Last on the list on the owners unit floor was the cellar, which our client wanted to utilize as an entertainment space for his friends and family. During the design phase, we incorporated an open concept layout, wedding the indoor and outdoor space with a custom glass curtain wall. The design also included custom walnut built-ins that serve as a custom wet bar and storage piece. With the design approved and selections made our office liaisons moved to procure all of the material selections and finishes. PHASE 2: DEMO Because this home is almost two centuries old, we had to take extra precaution during the interior demolition phase of the project. One specific area that we had to pay special attention to was the existing brick. Over time the mortar in old brick homes deteriorates and turns into dust – for this reason it was extremely important that a thorough and ongoing inspection of the exteriors and interior walls took place during the demolition of the space. After 14 30-yard debris containers and 56 wine filled jugs from the prohibition era later , the demolition of this historic Hudson Square town-home came to an end. If you are wondering whether we tried the wine? After notifying the owner we agreed to open one of the jugs and try them together – nothing but vinegar. PHASE 3: BUILD One of the challenges in a renovation project of this scope is nailing down the logistics and delivery of fixtures and finish material. Adding to this challenge was a narrow entry door that required us to use a boom truck in order to deliver some of the larger materials on site. To ensure a succinct time schedule, we boomed all of the materials through the 3rd floor for the entire project and worked our renovation work from top floor to cellar. This technique also insured that any unexpected water issues during the renovation process would not damage a finished floor. With all roughing and framing complete, the Gallery KBNY team proceeded to execute on the design plan. THE REVEAL From what was once a dilapidated town-home with nothing but potential, to a glamorous and luxurious modern interior space – the prohibition house was complete. Ready to speak with us about your renovation project? Contact us to schedule your free consultation and let Gallery KBNY show you why our all-inclusive approach to your renovation is the smartest way to renovating in NYC.

This Greek Revival row house in Boerum Hill was previously owned by a local architect who renovated it several times, including the addition of a two-story steel and glass extension at the rear. The new owners came to us seeking to restore the house and its original formality, while adapting it to the modern needs of a family of five. The detailing of the 25 x 36 foot structure had been lost and required some sleuthing into the history of Greek Revival style in historic Brooklyn neighborhoods. In addition to completely re-framing the interior, the house also required a new south-facing brick façade due to significant deterioration. The modern extension was replaced with a more traditionally detailed wood and copper- clad bay, still open to natural light and the garden view without sacrificing comfort. The kitchen was relocated from the first floor to the garden level with an adjacent formal dining room. Both rooms were enlarged from their previous iterations to accommodate weekly dinners with extended family. The kitchen includes a home office and breakfast nook that doubles as a homework station. The cellar level was further excavated to accommodate finished storage space and a playroom where activity can be monitored from the kitchen workspaces. The parlor floor is now reserved for entertaining. New pocket doors can be closed to separate the formal front parlor from the more relaxed back portion, where the family plays games or watches TV together. At the end of the hall, a powder room with brass details, and a luxe bar with antique mirrored backsplash and stone tile flooring, leads to the deck and direct garden access. Because of the property width, the house is able to provide ample space for the interior program within a shorter footprint. This allows the garden to remain expansive, with a small lawn for play, an outdoor food preparation area with a cast-in-place concrete bench, and a place for entertaining towards the rear. The newly designed landscaping will continue to develop, further enhancing the yard’s feeling of escape, and filling-in the views from the kitchen and back parlor above. A less visible, but equally as conscious, addition is a rooftop PV solar array that provides nearly 100% of the daily electrical usage, with the exception of the AC system on hot summer days. The well-appointed interiors connect the traditional backdrop of the home to a youthful take on classic design and functionality. The materials are elegant without being precious, accommodating a young, growing family. Unique colors and patterns provide a feeling of luxury while inviting inhabitants and guests to relax and enjoy this classic Brooklyn brownstone. This project won runner-up in the architecture category for the 2017 NYC&G Innovation in Design Awards and was featured in The American House: 100 Contemporary Homes. Photography by Francis Dzikowski / OTTO

Breckenridge Ski Home Remodel included the addition of 3000 square feet including this kitchen. Part of an open floor plan, the kitchen included Vittoria Regia Granite, Glass Mosaic Tile Back Splash, Knotty Alder Shaker Cabinetry, reclaimed oak hardwood floors, Kohler Plumbing and GE Profile Appliances Design and Build by Trilogy Partners, Design and Architecture by Stais Architects and Trilogy Partners.

Spectacular unobstructed views of the Bay, Bridge, Alcatraz, San Francisco skyline and the rolling hills of Marin greet you from almost every window of this stunning Provençal Villa located in the acclaimed Middle Ridge neighborhood of Mill Valley. Built in 2000, this exclusive 5 bedroom, 5+ bath estate was thoughtfully designed by architect Jorge de Quesada to provide a classically elegant backdrop for today’s active lifestyle. Perfectly positioned on over half an acre with flat lawns and an award winning garden there is unmatched sense of privacy just minutes from the shops and restaurants of downtown Mill Valley. A curved stone staircase leads from the charming entry gate to the private front lawn and on to the grand hand carved front door. A gracious formal entry and wide hall opens out to the main living spaces of the home and out to the view beyond. The Venetian plaster walls and soaring ceilings provide an open airy feeling to the living room and country chef’s kitchen, while three sets of oversized French doors lead onto the Jerusalem Limestone patios and bring in the panoramic views. The chef’s kitchen is the focal point of the warm welcoming great room and features a range-top and double wall ovens, two dishwashers, marble counters and sinks with Waterworks fixtures. The tile backsplash behind the range pays homage to Monet’s Giverny kitchen. A fireplace offers up a cozy sitting area to lounge and watch television or curl up with a book. There is ample space for a farm table for casual dining. In addition to a well-appointed formal living room, the main level of this estate includes an office, stunning library/den with faux tortoise detailing, butler’s pantry, powder room, and a wonderful indoor/outdoor flow allowing the spectacular setting to envelop every space. A wide staircase leads up to the four main bedrooms of home. There is a spacious master suite complete with private balcony and French doors showcasing the views. The suite features his and her baths complete with walk – in closets, and steam showers. In hers there is a sumptuous soaking tub positioned to make the most of the view. Two additional bedrooms share a bath while the third is en-suite. The laundry room features a second set of stairs leading back to the butler’s pantry, garage and outdoor areas. The lowest level of the home includes a legal second unit complete with kitchen, spacious walk in closet, private entry and patio area. In addition to interior access to the second unit there is a spacious exercise room, the potential for a poolside kitchenette, second laundry room, and secure storage area primed to become a state of the art tasting room/wine cellar. From the main level the spacious entertaining patio leads you out to the magnificent grounds and pool area. Designed by Steve Stucky, the gardens were featured on the 2007 Mill Valley Outdoor Art Club tour. A level lawn leads to the focal point of the grounds; the iconic “Crags Head” outcropping favored by hikers as far back as the 19th century. The perfect place to stop for lunch and take in the spectacular view. The Century old Sonoma Olive trees and lavender plantings add a Mediterranean touch to the two lawn areas that also include an antique fountain, and a charming custom Barbara Butler playhouse. Inspired by Provence and built to exacting standards this charming villa provides an elegant yet welcoming environment designed to meet the needs of today’s active lifestyle while staying true to its Continental roots creating a warm and inviting space ready to call home.

When Cummings Architects first met with the owners of this understated country farmhouse, the building’s layout and design was an incoherent jumble. The original bones of the building were almost unrecognizable. All of the original windows, doors, flooring, and trims – even the country kitchen – had been removed. Mathew and his team began a thorough design discovery process to find the design solution that would enable them to breathe life back into the old farmhouse in a way that acknowledged the building’s venerable history while also providing for a modern living by a growing family. The redesign included the addition of a new eat-in kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, wrap around porch, and stone fireplaces. To begin the transforming restoration, the team designed a generous, twenty-four square foot kitchen addition with custom, farmers-style cabinetry and timber framing. The team walked the homeowners through each detail the cabinetry layout, materials, and finishes. Salvaged materials were used and authentic craftsmanship lent a sense of place and history to the fabric of the space. The new master suite included a cathedral ceiling showcasing beautifully worn salvaged timbers. The team continued with the farm theme, using sliding barn doors to separate the custom-designed master bath and closet. The new second-floor hallway features a bold, red floor while new transoms in each bedroom let in plenty of light. A summer stair, detailed and crafted with authentic details, was added for additional access and charm. Finally, a welcoming farmer’s porch wraps around the side entry, connecting to the rear yard via a gracefully engineered grade. This large outdoor space provides seating for large groups of people to visit and dine next to the beautiful outdoor landscape and the new exterior stone fireplace. Though it had temporarily lost its identity, with the help of the team at Cummings Architects, this lovely farmhouse has regained not only its former charm but also a new life through beautifully integrated modern features designed for today’s family. Photo by Eric Roth

The owners of this kitchen had spent the money to upgrade the finishes in their kitchen upon building the home 12 years ago, but after living in the space for several years they realized how nonfunctional the layout really was. The (then) two preschool aged children had grown into busy, hungry teenagers with many friends who also liked to hang out at the house. So the family needed a more functional kitchen with better traffic flow, space for daily activities revolving around the kitchen at different times of day, and a kitchen that could accommodate cooking for and serving large groups. Furthermore, the dark, traditional finishes no longer reflected the homeowners’ style. They requested a brighter, more relaxed, coastal style that reflected their love of the seaside cities they like to visit. Originally, the kitchen was U-shaped with a narrow island in the middle. The island created narrow aisles that bottle-necked at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and cooktop areas. There was a pass-through from the foyer into the kitchen, but the owners never liked that the pass-through was also located so close to the powder room. The awkward proximity was unappealing and made guests feel uncomfortable. The kitchen’s storage was made up of lots of narrow cabinets, apothecary drawers, clipped corner units, and very few drawers. It lacked useful storage for the larger items the family used on a daily basis. And the kitchen’s only pantry was small closet that had only builder-grade, narrow shelving with no illumination to be able to see the contents inside. Overall, the kitchen’s lighting plan was poorly executed. Only six recessed cans illuminated the entire kitchen and nook areas. The under cabinet lighting was not evenly distributed either. In fact, the builder had mis-placed the under cabinet lighting around the decorative pilasters which made for choppy, dark cubbies. Further, the builder didn’t include any lighting over the sink or the bar area, which meant whoever was doing the dishes was always in their own shadow. That, coupled with the steep overhang of the game room above made the bar area feel like a dim, cavernous space that wasn’t inviting or task oriented. The kitchen looked out into the main living space, but the raised bar and a narrow wall (which held the only large cabinet in the kitchen) created more of a barrier than a relationship to the living room or breakfast nook. In fact, one couldn’t even see the breakfast nook from the cooktop or sink areas due to its orientation. The raised bar top was too narrow to comfortably sit to either dine at or chat from due to the lack of knee space. The the homeowners confided that the kitchen felt more like a dark, dirty prison than place where the family, or their guests, wanted to gather and commune. The clients' needs and desires were: ➢ to create a kitchen that would be a space the family loved to be in; to relate to the adjacent spaces all around, and to have better flow for entertaining large groups ➢ to remove the walls between the breakfast nook and living area and to be able to utilize the natural light from the windows in both those areas ➢ to incorporate a functional chopping block for prepping fresh food for home cooked meals, an island with a large sink and drain board, 2 pull out trash cans, and seating for at least the 2 teens to eat or do homework ➢ to design a kitchen and breakfast nook with an airy, coastal, relaxed vibe that blended with the rest of the house's coastal theme ➢ to integrate a layered lighting plan which would include ample general illumination, specific task lighting, decorative lighting, and lots of illuminated storage ➢ to design a kitchen with not only more storage for all the husband’s kitchen gadgets and collection of oils and spices, but smart storage, including a coffee/breakfast bar and a place to store and conceal the toaster oven and microwave ➢ to find a way to utilize the large open space between the kitchen, pantry area, and breakfast nook Twelve Stones Designs achieved the owner's goals by: ➢ removing the walls between the kitchen and living room to allow the natural light to filter in from the adjacent rooms and to create a connection between the kitchen, nook, and living spaces for a sense of unity and communion ➢ removing the existing pantry and designing 3 large pantry style cabinets with LED tape lights and rollout drawers to house lots of kitchen appliances, gadgets, and tons of groceries. We also took the cabinets all the way up to the 9’ ceiling for additional storage for seasonal items and bulk storage. ➢ designing 2 islands - 1 with a gorgeous black walnut chopping block that houses a drawer for chopping and carving knives and a custom double pull out trash unit for point of use utilization - and 1 that houses the dishwasher, a large Blanco Gourmet sink with integrated drain board, woven baskets for fresh root vegetables and kitchen towels, plenty of drawer storage for kitchen items, and bar seating for up to 4 diners. ➢ closing off the space between the kitchen and the powder room to create a beautiful new private alcove for the powder room as well as adding some decorative storage. This also gave us space to include more tall storage near the new range for precision placement of the husband’s extensive oil and spice collection as well as a location for a combo-steam oven the wife wanted for baking and cooking healthy meals. The project is enhanced functionally by: ➢ incorporated USB and standard receptacles for the kids’ laptops and phone charging in the large island ➢ designing the small island to include additional open shelving for items used on a daily basis such as a variety of bowls, plates, and colanders. This set up also works well for the husband who prefers to “plate” his dinners in restaurant-style fashion before presenting them to the table. ➢ the integration of specific storage units, such as double stacked cutlery drawers, a custom spice pull-out, a Kuerig coffee and tea pod drawer, and custom double stacked utensil drawers ➢ moving the refrigerator to the old oven location - this eliminated the bottle neck as well as created a better relationship to the eating table. It also utilizes the floor space between the pantry, nook, and kitchen ➢ creating a banquet style breakfast nook - this banquette seating not only doubles the amount of seating for large gatherings but it better utilizes the odd space between the kitchen and the previous nook area. It also helps to create a distinct pathway from the mudroom room through the pantry area, kitchen, nook, and living room. ➢ the coffee/breakfast bar area which includes the perfect location for the concealed microwave and toaster oven, convenient storage for the coffee pods and tea accoutrements. Roll-out drawers below also house the smoothie maker, hot water kettle, and a plethora of smoothie-making ingredients such as protein powders, smoothie additives, etc. Furthermore, the drawers below the Keurig house measuring utensil, cutlery, baking supplies and tupperware storage. ➢ incorporating lots of wide drawers and pullouts to accommodate large cookware. ➢ utilizing as much vertical space as possible by building storage to the ceiling which accommodates the family’s abundant amount of serving platters, baking sheets, bakeware, casserole dishes, and additional cutting boards. The project is enhanced aesthetically by: ➢ new 5-piece Versailles pattern porcelain tile that now seamlessly joins the entire down stairs area together creating a bright, cohesiveness feeling instead of choppy separated spaces - it also adds a coastal feeling ➢ designing a cabinet to conceal the microwave and toaster oven ➢ the coastal influenced light fixtures over the nook table and island ➢ the sandy colors of the Langdon Cambria countertops. The swirling pattern and sparkling quartz pieces remind the homeowner of black-and-tan sandy beaches ➢ the striped banquet seating whose creamy white background and blue-green stripes were the inspiration for the cabinet and wall colors. ➢ All the interior doors were painted black to coordinate with the blacks and grays in the backsplash tile and countertop. This also adds a hint of tailored formality to an otherwise casual space. ➢ the use of WAC's Oculux small aperture LED units for the overhead lighting complimented with Diode LED strips for task lighting under the cabinets and inside the pantry and glass wall cabinets. All of the lighting applications are on separate dimmer switches. Innovative uses of materials or construction methods by Realty Restoration LLC: ➢ Each 1-1/2” x 3” block of reclaimed end-grain black walnut that makes up the center island chopping block was hand milled and built in the shop. It was designed to look substantial and proportional to the surrounding elements, executed by creating the 4 inch tall top with a solid wood chamfered edge band. ➢ The metal doors on either side of the vent hood were also custom designed for this project and built in the Realty Restoration LLC shop. They are made 1x2, 11-gauge mild steel with ribbed glass. Weighing 60 lbs a piece, heavy duty cabinet hinges were added to support the weight of the door and keep them from sagging. ➢ Under-cabinet receptacles were added along the range wall in order to have a clean, uninterrupted backsplash. Design obstacles to overcome: ➢ Because we were removing the demising walls between the kitchen and living room, we had to find a way to plumb and vent the new island. We did this by tunneling through the slab (the slab had post tension cables which prevented us from just trenching) to run a new wet vent through a nearby structural wall. We pulled the existing hot and cold lines between upper floor joists and ran them down the structural wall as well and up through a conduit in the tunnel. ➢ Since we were converting from wall overs to a gas range it allowed us to utilize the 220 feed for the wall ovens to provide a new sub panel for all the new kitchen circuits ➢ Due to framing deficiencies inherited from the original build there was a 1-1/2” differential in the floor-to-ceiling height over a 20 foot span; by utilizing the process of cutting and furring coupled with the crown moulding details on the cabinet elevations we were able to mask the problem and provide seamless transitions between the cabinet components. Evidence of superior craftsmanship: ➢ uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind metal “X” end panels on the large island. The end panels were custom made in the Realty Restoration LLC shop and fitted to the exact dimensions of the island. The welding seams are completely indistinguishable - the posts look like they are cut from a single sheet of metal ➢ square metal posts on the small island were also custom made and designed to compliment and carry through the metal element s throughout the kitchen ➢ the beautiful, oversized end panels on the pantry cabinets which give the breakfast nook a tailored look ➢ integrating a large format 5 piece Versailles tile pattern to seamlessly flow from the existing spaces into the new kitchen space ➢ By constructing a custom cabinet that jogged around a corner we could not remodel (housing the entry way coat closet) we were able to camouflage the adjacent wall offset within the upper and lower cabinets. By designing around the existing jog in the structural walls we accomplished a few things: we were able to find the space to house, and hide, the microwave and toaster oven yet still have a clean cohesive appearance from the kitchen side. Additionally, the owners were able to keep their much needed coat closet and we didn’t have to increase the budget with unnecessary structural work.

Returning home after more than a decade living and working in Taiwan, our client envisioned something entirely different from the French Colonial aesthetic of his early-1990s Beaverton home. Through a comprehensive design-build renovation, this Portland metro whole-house remodel transformed a conventional suburban residence into a richly layered retreat inspired by global travel, natural materials, and timeless craftsmanship. The result is a warm, sophisticated home designed to showcase treasured artifacts and collectibles gathered from years abroad while providing modern functionality for everyday living. From the moment you enter, the home's new character unfolds through a carefully curated palette of wood, stone, and metal. Rich ebony-stained knotty alder millwork draws the eye through the entry, where a newly created mudroom replaces the former office space. Beyond a set of dramatic barn doors, a striking stone fireplace becomes the focal point of the living room, anchored by a reclaimed wood mantel and rustic ceiling beams that add warmth and architectural depth. Nearby, the sunroom was completely refreshed through thoughtful window modifications and custom trim detailing, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. The kitchen serves as the heart of the renovation, blending rustic elegance with refined craftsmanship. Custom alder cabinetry is paired with layered metal finishes, allowing subtle copper and bronze undertones to emerge from creamy quartz countertops. A textured slate backsplash echoes the flagstone-inspired flooring, while a newly created butler's pantry provides both beauty and functionality. Each material was selected to evoke the authenticity of old-world craftsmanship while supporting the practical needs of modern living. One of the home's most dramatic architectural transformations is the custom floating staircase. Designed as both a sculptural centerpiece and a solution to circulation challenges, the staircase opens previously constricted pathways and enhances the home's flow. Hand-tooled hickory wraps each tread while weathered metal accents provide subtle industrial character. Upstairs, creative space planning allowed for the addition of a discreet laundry nook within an underutilized hallway area, improving convenience without sacrificing valuable living space. The primary suite continues the home's story of understated luxury and global influence. Rustic ceiling beams mirror those seen throughout the main level, creating visual continuity and warmth. An antique carved door serves as a distinctive feature within the reconfigured closet layout, while the primary bathroom embraces a calming combination of stone, concrete, and matte black finishes. Large-format tile arranged in a custom Versailles-inspired pattern guides the eye through the spa-like retreat, where natural textures and abundant daylight create a serene atmosphere. While the main and upper levels celebrate warmth and global influence, the basement renovation introduces an entirely different layer of the home's personality. To create the ultimate entertainment destination, the basement footprint was extended approximately seven feet beyond the original foundation, transforming previously underutilized space into a seamless indoor-outdoor gathering environment. Inspired by cultured industrial design, the newly expanded lower level was envisioned as a place where family and friends could relax, connect, and enjoy the home's resort-like backyard amenities. At the heart of the basement renovation is a custom entertainment bar featuring reclaimed rustic cabinetry and chiseled-edge granite countertops that emphasize the natural character of the materials. Accordion-style serving windows create a direct connection between the interior bar and the outdoor living spaces, allowing drinks, food, and conversation to flow effortlessly between the entertainment room and the backyard pool, hot tub, and professionally landscaped grounds. The result is a true indoor-outdoor living experience designed for year-round enjoyment. The expansive recreation area accommodates a variety of activities while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic. A shuffleboard table, billiards area, and casual bar dining space provide multiple destinations for gathering, all unified by a sophisticated palette of brick, concrete, wood, and metal. Slim-profile brick walls introduce texture and authenticity, while custom decorative painting techniques create the appearance of cast concrete accent walls, reinforcing the basement's refined industrial character without overwhelming the space. Supporting spaces throughout the lower level were equally transformed. An outdated bathroom was fully renovated to reflect the home's dark and moody aesthetic, incorporating a curbless shower, rustic vanity, and layered finishes that balance comfort with style. Two underutilized bedrooms were thoughtfully reconfigured to better support the homeowner's lifestyle, with one becoming a dedicated home office and the other opening into a flexible music room designed for creativity and relaxation. Additional unfinished crawlspace and storage areas were reclaimed to create a private home gym, maximizing every square foot of the home's footprint. The renovation extended beyond the interior walls of the home. A newly rebuilt two-story deck strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while providing multiple vantage points overlooking the backyard retreat. On the upper level, adjacent to the primary suite, a new enclosed sunroom addition creates a peaceful sanctuary elevated among the trees. Together, these exterior improvements complement the home's interior transformation, enhancing both livability and year-round enjoyment while creating a true extension of the living space outdoors. Behind the finished spaces, this Beaverton full home remodel required significant structural and technical expertise. Replacing the original staircase involved extensive modifications to the upper-floor framing system, including the installation of concealed supports for the floating treads and the creation of a new landing structure. Throughout the home, natural materials presented unique installation challenges. The dimensional variation of the slate backsplash required each stone to be precisely shaped around electrical devices and surrounding elements, while reclaimed wood beams demanded extensive preparation before they could be securely installed. Careful coordination among multiple trades ensured every custom detail performed as beautifully as it appeared. Because the homeowner remained in Taiwan for much of the renovation, collaboration relied on a highly organized design-build process and frequent communication across a fourteen-hour time difference. Detailed design presentations, material selections, and construction updates allowed key decisions to be made efficiently, even from across the globe. This partnership enabled the project team to successfully execute a highly customized vision despite logistical complexities and construction delays outside of the project's control. Strategic planning also played a crucial role in maintaining the project budget. While the homeowner initially envisioned reclaimed wood flooring and natural flagstone throughout the home, carefully selected engineered hardwood and porcelain tile provided a similar aesthetic with improved performance and cost efficiency. Authenticity was preserved through the use of genuine stone at key focal points, including the fireplace surround and kitchen backsplash, as well as reclaimed wood incorporated into architectural beam details. Existing high-quality windows were retained and transformed through selective replacement, custom trim work, and thoughtful refinishing, delivering the desired look while avoiding unnecessary expense. Additional savings came from a creative exterior repair solution that replicated the home's original stucco detailing without requiring a complete façade replacement. This luxury Beaverton whole-house renovation demonstrates how thoughtful design-build remodeling can completely reimagine an existing home. Through strategic space planning, custom craftsmanship, and budget-conscious decision making, a dated suburban residence was transformed into a distinctive rustic contemporary retreat that reflects its owner's global experiences, personal story, and vision for home.

Made of durable white stone resin composite with a modern style design and its pinnacle of being smooth, the DW-110 countertop sink is a rectangular shaped design model within the ADM Bathroom Design sink collection. The stone resin material comes with the option of matte or glossy finish. This wall or counter mounted sink will surely be a great addition with a neat and modern touch to your newly renovated stylish bathroom. Item #: DW-110 Product Size (inches): 39.4 L x 19.7 W x 4.9 H Inches Material: Solid Surface/Stone Resin Color / Finish: Matte White (Glossy Optional) Product Weight: 77.2 lbs Mount: Wall Mounted / Countertop Left and Right Sided Sink Optional FEATURES All sinks come sealed off from the factory. All sinks come with a complimentary chrome drain (Does NOT including any additional piping). This sink does not include ANY faucet fixture.

When Cummings Architects first met with the owners of this understated country farmhouse, the building’s layout and design was an incoherent jumble. The original bones of the building were almost unrecognizable. All of the original windows, doors, flooring, and trims – even the country kitchen – had been removed. Mathew and his team began a thorough design discovery process to find the design solution that would enable them to breathe life back into the old farmhouse in a way that acknowledged the building’s venerable history while also providing for a modern living by a growing family. The redesign included the addition of a new eat-in kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, wrap around porch, and stone fireplaces. To begin the transforming restoration, the team designed a generous, twenty-four square foot kitchen addition with custom, farmers-style cabinetry and timber framing. The team walked the homeowners through each detail the cabinetry layout, materials, and finishes. Salvaged materials were used and authentic craftsmanship lent a sense of place and history to the fabric of the space. The new master suite included a cathedral ceiling showcasing beautifully worn salvaged timbers. The team continued with the farm theme, using sliding barn doors to separate the custom-designed master bath and closet. The new second-floor hallway features a bold, red floor while new transoms in each bedroom let in plenty of light. A summer stair, detailed and crafted with authentic details, was added for additional access and charm. Finally, a welcoming farmer’s porch wraps around the side entry, connecting to the rear yard via a gracefully engineered grade. This large outdoor space provides seating for large groups of people to visit and dine next to the beautiful outdoor landscape and the new exterior stone fireplace. Though it had temporarily lost its identity, with the help of the team at Cummings Architects, this lovely farmhouse has regained not only its former charm but also a new life through beautifully integrated modern features designed for today’s family. Photo by Eric Roth

This home, built in 1920, is a quintessential Virginia Highland craftsman bungalow in intown Atlanta. The home underwent an extensive renovaton that included the addition of a screened porch and deck off the back, dormers on the second story in the front, and finishing out the basement level. Most interior spaces were updated including the kitchen, multiple bathrooms, a mudroom and laundry room.

This brick and limestone, 6,000-square-foot residence exemplifies understated elegance. Located in the award-wining Blaine School District and within close proximity to the Southport Corridor, this is city living at its finest! The foyer, with herringbone wood floors, leads to a dramatic, hand-milled oval staircase; an architectural element that allows sunlight to cascade down from skylights and to filter throughout the house. The floor plan has stately-proportioned rooms and includes formal Living and Dining Rooms; an expansive, eat-in, gourmet Kitchen/Great Room; four bedrooms on the second level with three additional bedrooms and a Family Room on the lower level; a Penthouse Playroom leading to a roof-top deck and green roof; and an attached, heated 3-car garage. Additional features include hardwood flooring throughout the main level and upper two floors; sophisticated architectural detailing throughout the house including coffered ceiling details, barrel and groin vaulted ceilings; painted, glazed and wood paneling; laundry rooms on the bedroom level and on the lower level; five fireplaces, including one outdoors; and HD Video, Audio and Surround Sound pre-wire distribution through the house and grounds. The home also features extensively landscaped exterior spaces, designed by Prassas Landscape Studio. This home went under contract within 90 days during the Great Recession. Featured in Chicago Magazine: http://goo.gl/Gl8lRm Jim Yochum

Lissa Gotwals Photography
Example of a classic gender-neutral medium tone wood floor playroom design in Raleigh with white walls

Returning home after more than a decade living and working in Taiwan, our client envisioned something entirely different from the French Colonial aesthetic of his early-1990s Beaverton home. Through a comprehensive design-build renovation, this Portland metro whole-house remodel transformed a conventional suburban residence into a richly layered retreat inspired by global travel, natural materials, and timeless craftsmanship. The result is a warm, sophisticated home designed to showcase treasured artifacts and collectibles gathered from years abroad while providing modern functionality for everyday living. From the moment you enter, the home's new character unfolds through a carefully curated palette of wood, stone, and metal. Rich ebony-stained knotty alder millwork draws the eye through the entry, where a newly created mudroom replaces the former office space. Beyond a set of dramatic barn doors, a striking stone fireplace becomes the focal point of the living room, anchored by a reclaimed wood mantel and rustic ceiling beams that add warmth and architectural depth. Nearby, the sunroom was completely refreshed through thoughtful window modifications and custom trim detailing, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. The kitchen serves as the heart of the renovation, blending rustic elegance with refined craftsmanship. Custom alder cabinetry is paired with layered metal finishes, allowing subtle copper and bronze undertones to emerge from creamy quartz countertops. A textured slate backsplash echoes the flagstone-inspired flooring, while a newly created butler's pantry provides both beauty and functionality. Each material was selected to evoke the authenticity of old-world craftsmanship while supporting the practical needs of modern living. One of the home's most dramatic architectural transformations is the custom floating staircase. Designed as both a sculptural centerpiece and a solution to circulation challenges, the staircase opens previously constricted pathways and enhances the home's flow. Hand-tooled hickory wraps each tread while weathered metal accents provide subtle industrial character. Upstairs, creative space planning allowed for the addition of a discreet laundry nook within an underutilized hallway area, improving convenience without sacrificing valuable living space. The primary suite continues the home's story of understated luxury and global influence. Rustic ceiling beams mirror those seen throughout the main level, creating visual continuity and warmth. An antique carved door serves as a distinctive feature within the reconfigured closet layout, while the primary bathroom embraces a calming combination of stone, concrete, and matte black finishes. Large-format tile arranged in a custom Versailles-inspired pattern guides the eye through the spa-like retreat, where natural textures and abundant daylight create a serene atmosphere. While the main and upper levels celebrate warmth and global influence, the basement renovation introduces an entirely different layer of the home's personality. To create the ultimate entertainment destination, the basement footprint was extended approximately seven feet beyond the original foundation, transforming previously underutilized space into a seamless indoor-outdoor gathering environment. Inspired by cultured industrial design, the newly expanded lower level was envisioned as a place where family and friends could relax, connect, and enjoy the home's resort-like backyard amenities. At the heart of the basement renovation is a custom entertainment bar featuring reclaimed rustic cabinetry and chiseled-edge granite countertops that emphasize the natural character of the materials. Accordion-style serving windows create a direct connection between the interior bar and the outdoor living spaces, allowing drinks, food, and conversation to flow effortlessly between the entertainment room and the backyard pool, hot tub, and professionally landscaped grounds. The result is a true indoor-outdoor living experience designed for year-round enjoyment. The expansive recreation area accommodates a variety of activities while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic. A shuffleboard table, billiards area, and casual bar dining space provide multiple destinations for gathering, all unified by a sophisticated palette of brick, concrete, wood, and metal. Slim-profile brick walls introduce texture and authenticity, while custom decorative painting techniques create the appearance of cast concrete accent walls, reinforcing the basement's refined industrial character without overwhelming the space. Supporting spaces throughout the lower level were equally transformed. An outdated bathroom was fully renovated to reflect the home's dark and moody aesthetic, incorporating a curbless shower, rustic vanity, and layered finishes that balance comfort with style. Two underutilized bedrooms were thoughtfully reconfigured to better support the homeowner's lifestyle, with one becoming a dedicated home office and the other opening into a flexible music room designed for creativity and relaxation. Additional unfinished crawlspace and storage areas were reclaimed to create a private home gym, maximizing every square foot of the home's footprint. The renovation extended beyond the interior walls of the home. A newly rebuilt two-story deck strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while providing multiple vantage points overlooking the backyard retreat. On the upper level, adjacent to the primary suite, a new enclosed sunroom addition creates a peaceful sanctuary elevated among the trees. Together, these exterior improvements complement the home's interior transformation, enhancing both livability and year-round enjoyment while creating a true extension of the living space outdoors. Behind the finished spaces, this Beaverton full home remodel required significant structural and technical expertise. Replacing the original staircase involved extensive modifications to the upper-floor framing system, including the installation of concealed supports for the floating treads and the creation of a new landing structure. Throughout the home, natural materials presented unique installation challenges. The dimensional variation of the slate backsplash required each stone to be precisely shaped around electrical devices and surrounding elements, while reclaimed wood beams demanded extensive preparation before they could be securely installed. Careful coordination among multiple trades ensured every custom detail performed as beautifully as it appeared. Because the homeowner remained in Taiwan for much of the renovation, collaboration relied on a highly organized design-build process and frequent communication across a fourteen-hour time difference. Detailed design presentations, material selections, and construction updates allowed key decisions to be made efficiently, even from across the globe. This partnership enabled the project team to successfully execute a highly customized vision despite logistical complexities and construction delays outside of the project's control. Strategic planning also played a crucial role in maintaining the project budget. While the homeowner initially envisioned reclaimed wood flooring and natural flagstone throughout the home, carefully selected engineered hardwood and porcelain tile provided a similar aesthetic with improved performance and cost efficiency. Authenticity was preserved through the use of genuine stone at key focal points, including the fireplace surround and kitchen backsplash, as well as reclaimed wood incorporated into architectural beam details. Existing high-quality windows were retained and transformed through selective replacement, custom trim work, and thoughtful refinishing, delivering the desired look while avoiding unnecessary expense. Additional savings came from a creative exterior repair solution that replicated the home's original stucco detailing without requiring a complete façade replacement. This luxury Beaverton whole-house renovation demonstrates how thoughtful design-build remodeling can completely reimagine an existing home. Through strategic space planning, custom craftsmanship, and budget-conscious decision making, a dated suburban residence was transformed into a distinctive rustic contemporary retreat that reflects its owner's global experiences, personal story, and vision for home.