Located on a heritage-lined street in Melbourne’s Williamstown, a young family were seeking a contemporary home with ample room to grow. Benni Trajcevski of Achieve Design Group answered their call, creating the epitome of modern living concealed behind a modest façade. To achieve the long wish list including large indoor and outdoor gathering spaces to entertain family and friends, separate adult and children living and sleeping zones, and a pool suitable for year-round use, Benni has maximised every inch of the block. Seamless transitional spaces link inside with out. This flow between the indoors and outdoors is a key feature of the home, achieved through generous open floor planning and glazing. For example, large hidden sliding doors allow the pool to be closed-off for use in winter; acrylic glass panels link the pool with the sunken lounge, which includes a fire pit for year-round comfort. The inclusion of a courtyard and voids throughout create separate useable zones while maintaining the feeling of spaciousness. Orientated to the north and surrounded with floor to ceiling windows to optimise natural light, the courtyard divides the formal lounge area with the informal living area, while the first floor is divided into four separate wings for privacy and functionality. The interiors are detailed with quality materials and finishes to achieve a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. Contrasting materials in muted tones, including tiles, steel and lightweight timbers are featured throughout. Corian and a moss green wall are unexpected features.

This kitchen remodel in Olney showcases a transitional design that balances clean, modern lines with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The space is anchored by a large, multi-functional center island and a bright, monochromatic color palette. Cabinetry and Hardware • Style: The kitchen features white Shaker-style cabinetry that extends to the ceiling, maximizing storage and creating a sense of height in the room. • Hardware: A bold contrast is achieved using matte black linear pulls on both the drawers and cabinets, providing a modern, industrial touch to the traditional door style. Countertops and Backsplash • Surfaces: The countertops are a polished white quartz with subtle gray veining, offering a durable and sleek workspace. • Backsplash: A classic white subway tile backsplash is used throughout, featuring a glossy finish that reflects the under-cabinet LED lighting. Key Features and Appliances • Center Island: The oversized island serves as the heart of the kitchen, housing a gas cooktop and providing ample space for food preparation and casual dining. It also features integrated electrical outlets and deep drawer storage. • High-End Appliances: The layout includes a professional-grade stainless steel double wall oven and a built-in refrigerator, seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry. • Wet Bar/Coffee Station: A dedicated beverage area includes a wine cooler, additional storage, and plenty of counter space for a coffee maker and accessories. Lighting and Flooring • Illumination: The design utilizes a layered lighting plan, including recessed ceiling lights, under-cabinet task lighting, and a modern industrial chandelier over the adjacent dining table. • Flooring: The cool tones of the cabinetry and counters are balanced by warm-toned hardwood flooring, which runs throughout the open-concept space.

Welcome to this meticulously maintained Colonial nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in desirable Colchester! This turn-key home has beautiful curb appeal with professional landscaping, a welcoming front porch with rocking chairs, and a spacious backyard retreat straight out of a New England postcard featuring both a stone patio with gas fire pit and above-ground pool. Inside, discover a thoughtfully updated interior with hardwood floors, a STYLISH eat-in kitchen with white cabinetry and granite countertops, breakfast bar, formal dining room with elegant chandelier, and stunning family room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace. The finished basement offers versatile space with a home office area, work out area and media room while not taking away from the storage options! LOVE the 3 generous bedrooms upstairs include a sumptuous primary suite with walk in closet and remodeled bathroom with frameless enclosed tiled shower. Additional highlights include tastefully updated modern bathrooms, multiple outdoor living spaces including a large rear patio for entertaining, and proximity to schools, shopping, and major commuting routes. Windows have been replaced. Only an 7 minute stroll to the popular brewery Hop Culture Farms & Brew Co and close to Cato Corner Farms, Priam Vineyards, Harry Place and Stop and Shop are all within 10 minutes; be in Hartford in under 30!! This lovingly cared-for home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience for you to enjoy immediately!

Located on a heritage-lined street in Melbourne’s Williamstown, a young family were seeking a contemporary home with ample room to grow. Benni Trajcevski of Achieve Design Group answered their call, creating the epitome of modern living concealed behind a modest façade. To achieve the long wish list including large indoor and outdoor gathering spaces to entertain family and friends, separate adult and children living and sleeping zones, and a pool suitable for year-round use, Benni has maximised every inch of the block. Seamless transitional spaces link inside with out. This flow between the indoors and outdoors is a key feature of the home, achieved through generous open floor planning and glazing. For example, large hidden sliding doors allow the pool to be closed-off for use in winter; acrylic glass panels link the pool with the sunken lounge, which includes a fire pit for year-round comfort. The inclusion of a courtyard and voids throughout create separate useable zones while maintaining the feeling of spaciousness. Orientated to the north and surrounded with floor to ceiling windows to optimise natural light, the courtyard divides the formal lounge area with the informal living area, while the first floor is divided into four separate wings for privacy and functionality. The interiors are detailed with quality materials and finishes to achieve a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. Contrasting materials in muted tones, including tiles, steel and lightweight timbers are featured throughout. Corian and a moss green wall are unexpected features.

Located on a heritage-lined street in Melbourne’s Williamstown, a young family were seeking a contemporary home with ample room to grow. Benni Trajcevski of Achieve Design Group answered their call, creating the epitome of modern living concealed behind a modest façade. To achieve the long wish list including large indoor and outdoor gathering spaces to entertain family and friends, separate adult and children living and sleeping zones, and a pool suitable for year-round use, Benni has maximised every inch of the block. Seamless transitional spaces link inside with out. This flow between the indoors and outdoors is a key feature of the home, achieved through generous open floor planning and glazing. For example, large hidden sliding doors allow the pool to be closed-off for use in winter; acrylic glass panels link the pool with the sunken lounge, which includes a fire pit for year-round comfort. The inclusion of a courtyard and voids throughout create separate useable zones while maintaining the feeling of spaciousness. Orientated to the north and surrounded with floor to ceiling windows to optimise natural light, the courtyard divides the formal lounge area with the informal living area, while the first floor is divided into four separate wings for privacy and functionality. The interiors are detailed with quality materials and finishes to achieve a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. Contrasting materials in muted tones, including tiles, steel and lightweight timbers are featured throughout. Corian and a moss green wall are unexpected features.

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today. A Remodel That Balances Past and Present What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form. Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner. A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it. Navigating Challenges With Precision The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved. Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly. Details That Respect the Eichler DNA The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness. At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence. The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving. Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process. The Value of Evolving Scope As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun. The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA. Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa. Contractor: Golden Cove Construction Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2024 Location: Sunnyvale, CA

2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY FINALIST AWARD WINNER This 1970’s split-level single-family home in an upscale Arlington neighborhood had been neglected for years. With his surrounding neighbors all doing major exterior and interior remodeling, however, the owner decided it was time to renovate his property as well. After several consultation meetings with the design team at Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, he settled on an exterior layout to create an Art & Craft design for the home. It all got started by excavating the front and left side of the house and attaching a wrap-around stone porch. Key design attributes include a black metal roof, large tapered columns, blue and grey random style flag stone, beaded stain ceiling paneling and an octagonal seating area on the left side of this porch. The front porch has a wide stairway and another set of stairs leads to the back yard. All exterior walls of the home were modified with new headers to allow much larger custom-made windows, new front doors garage doors, and French side and back doors. A custom-designed mahogany front door with leaded glass provides more light and offers a wider entrance into the home’s living area. Design challenges included removing the entire face of the home and then adding new insulation, Tyvek and Hardiplank siding. The use of high-efficiency low-e windows makes the home air tight. The Arts & Crafts design touches include the front gable over the front porch, the prairie-style grill pattern on the windows and doors, the use of tapered columns sitting over stone columns and the leaded glass front door. Decorative exterior lighting provides the finishing touches to this look. Inside, custom woodwork, crown molding, custom glass cabinets and interior pillars carry the design. Upon entering the space, visitors face a large partition that separates the living area from a gourmet Arts & Crafts kitchen and dining room. The home’s signature space, the kitchen offers contrasting dark and light cherry cabinets. Wide plank hard wood floors, exotic granite counters and stainless steel professional-grade appliances make this a kitchen fit for any chef.

This project showcases the transformation of a modest family cottage into a highly-functional, year-round waterfront retreat. Through a thoughtfully-designed addition and careful reorganization of interior space, the home now seamlessly combines the charm of its original structure with modern comforts and expanded living spaces, all while preserving views of the stunning riverfront setting. Key Features: 1. Expanded Entry and Primary Suite: The newly created entryway offers a spacious and functional welcome to the home, featuring a practical laundry room and ample storage space. The private primary bedroom suite, complete with a modern ensuite bathroom, provides a peaceful sanctuary. 2. Sunroom for Year-Round Enjoyment: A light-filled sunroom extends the home’s outdoor living season by offering protection from the elements, allowing the family to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views throughout the year. The room features warm pine finishes on the walls and ceiling, with timber accents that complement the natural surroundings. 3. New River-Facing Deck: The large deck offers a perfect spot for family gatherings and relaxation, with unimpeded views of the water thanks to the use of a glass railing. Designed for both entertaining and quiet reflection, it’s a key feature that strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor living. 4. Exterior Renovation: The exterior has been fully updated, blending the old cottage’s character with the new additions. A new roof and siding unify the entire structure, giving it a refreshed, cohesive. 5. Reconfigured Interior Spaces: The renovation reorganized key interior spaces, including the relocation of the basement stairs to allow for an expanded completely renovated kitchen and large, open eating area adjacent to the sunroom. This successful renovation enhances both the functionality and aesthetic of the cottage, transforming it into a beautiful, all-season home that meets the evolving needs of its owners while maintaining a strong connection to the waterfront environment.

Welcome to this meticulously maintained Colonial nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in desirable Colchester! This turn-key home has beautiful curb appeal with professional landscaping, a welcoming front porch with rocking chairs, and a spacious backyard retreat straight out of a New England postcard featuring both a stone patio with gas fire pit and above-ground pool. Inside, discover a thoughtfully updated interior with hardwood floors, a STYLISH eat-in kitchen with white cabinetry and granite countertops, breakfast bar, formal dining room with elegant chandelier, and stunning family room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace. The finished basement offers versatile space with a home office area, work out area and media room while not taking away from the storage options! LOVE the 3 generous bedrooms upstairs include a sumptuous primary suite with walk in closet and remodeled bathroom with frameless enclosed tiled shower. Additional highlights include tastefully updated modern bathrooms, multiple outdoor living spaces including a large rear patio for entertaining, and proximity to schools, shopping, and major commuting routes. Windows have been replaced. Only an 7 minute stroll to the popular brewery Hop Culture Farms & Brew Co and close to Cato Corner Farms, Priam Vineyards, Harry Place and Stop and Shop are all within 10 minutes; be in Hartford in under 30!! This lovingly cared-for home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience for you to enjoy immediately!

A traditional 1926 cottage was transformed into a stunning, contemporary home. The focal point from both inside and out is a 3-story floating wood and stainless staircase, showcased by oversized windows and dramatic lighting. Walnut cabinetry with a distinct stain and natural slab surfaces offset the metals used throughout – Including at the interior and exterior of the fireplace. Reclaimed wood floors pay homage to the industrial area the home is situated in. In designing this home restrictions set forth by the building department were key. For instance, in order for the project to be considered a remodel the existing 8’ tall perimeter walls had to remain in place. The homeowners desperately wanted 9’ tall ceilings, so with crafty engineering and framing we were able to embellish the existing wall framing to achieve the added height. Clearstory windows allow much needed light into the spaces and creates the illusion of spaciousness, while maintaining wall areas for key furnishings and artwork. Every inch of space maximizes storage throughout the 2,600 square foot home. A cabinet for shoe storage immediately inside the front door also serves as a key component at the staircase and provides a platform to highlight sculptural artwork. Unique products and details, such as a metal link shower curtain and custom built-in guest beds with strategically placed outlets and horizontal surfaces to allow for electronics to be close at hand, elevate this home to the next level.

PRIMARY COLORS The Noakeses are not afraid of color, which found an outlet in the brilliant red, orange and blue of the Tufenkian Borealis Pacific Fire rug anchoring the living room. On the following spread, the homeowners’ art hangs on a dining room wall and is the soulmate to the living room rug’s deeply saturated colors as well as to the bright oranges in the wool and silk rug under the dining table. Glamour is a driving force in the house, but it never overwhelms. As a backdrop in the dining room, golden Lori Weitzner wallpaper lines the display shelf where Perry and Suzy Noakes display treasures from their travels. In the kitchen, a grouping of seeded blown glass cylinder pendants illuminates Bright Group stools and a generously proportioned island that’s big enough to seat eight guests. The entry’s bright-red lacquered console is a place for the homeowners’ Buddha collection to get attention. Pieces from Laura Britt’s sustainable furniture line Vervano populate the bedroom, including the Noakeses use for media storage. Pieces from Laura Britt’s sustainable furniture line Vervano populate the bedroom, including the chair underneath the windows The gray theme continues in the master bath, where vein-cut travertine slabs on the floor set off the sculptural flair of the bathtub. “Homes didn’t mean anything to us,” says Perry Noakes, “except as a place to put our keys and get ready for the next journey.” The retired high-tech company executive and his wife, Suzy, are avid globe-trotters. The couple had also lived in Asia for 15 years as part of Perry’s work. Finding a place to live was a well-rehearsed exercise that figured into their system for settling in to a foreign country. But all that changed when Perry and Suzy decided to downsize to a new house in Austin. A friend told them about a spec house under construction, the project of a dream team of Austin-based design professionals that included builder Keith Husbands, architect Bob Wetmore of Cornerstone Architects, and interior designer Laura Britt and her staff. “We went to see it,” says Perry, “and loved it.” The couple quickly bought the framed-out 5,800-square-foot building. The fact that the two-story dwelling was near a golf course was a bonus for the two golfers, but the low-slung four-bedroom, four-bath house also backs up onto a nature preserve. “The land offered us great opportunity to nestle the house into the topography, giving us both privacy and stunning views,” says Wetmore, who had to negotiate his design for the native stone, stucco and metal house to fit onto the steeply sloping and oddly elongated lot. The Hill Country contemporary house stretches out just below the rim of the slope, comfortably settled into the topography courtesy of terraced landscaping that defines the front approach to the house. “We turned a negative into a positive,” says Wetmore about the difficult site. The rough-and-ready landscape accounts for the building’s quiet dynamics, which Wetmore chronicled with the roofline, a series of horizontal areas that correspond to transitional spaces inside, interrupted by a clerestory that caps the entry and living room. The process of taking a house from the framing stage to completion was a new experience for the couple. “We had never participated in the building process,” says Suzy. They threw themselves into it as if it were just another one of their adventures. “I think of it as my first project after I retired,” says Perry. The budding design enthusiast so endeared himself to Britt that she and her staff awarded him with a beret to wear to design meetings, in honor of his artistic verve. “We were able to redesign a lot of the house since we came into the process so early,” says Suzy. “The house started as a spec house,” says Britt, “but it quickly became a custom home with the Noakeses’ involvement.” Britt started the process by helping the couple select materials and lighting, opting for an earthy glamour that became the touchstone of the house. For pure wow factor, the living room’s stone and steel fireplace—sliced horizontally by three massive wood beams—is a tour de force of drama. In the kitchen, an oversize island (big enough to seat eight) is topped with a slab of dramatically veined marble; the countertops are a quieter quartzite. In the master bath, bold vein-cut travertine pavers on the floor are a counterpoint to the linear-cut mosaic tiles that back the vanity and reach all the way to the skylit ceiling. The pièce de résistance is the shimmering white pebble wall behind the free-standing tub that creates the effect of water frozen in free fall. Britt used contrast as a backdrop to all the drama, opting for a forged metal chandelier in the shape of a lotus leaf in the entry—a worthy match to the darkened-steel front door. She designed a dining room table (through Vervano, her furniture design company) topped with patinaed steel; overhead, a massive steel-framed drum pendant with mica panels casts a delicate glow over the room. The designer was careful to leave wall space for the homeowners’ art collection, as well as to add space wherever possible. The dining room’s asymmetrical built-in is a place to display Buddhas and other pieces the couple has collected in their travels. “We wanted this house to be about us and who we are,” says Suzy. That’s understandable since, after 16 previous homes that were really just places to live, the freedom of expression is obviously a thrill. Maybe even too much of a thrill—although this house is the couple’s dream home, they were completely enthralled with the design process. Could house No. 17 be the best and last? Maybe not. But if there is another house in the Noakeses’ future, one thing is certain, says Perry: “We won’t make a move without consulting Laura first.” https://modernluxury.com/interiors-texas/story/smooth-move

This project showcases the transformation of a modest family cottage into a highly-functional, year-round waterfront retreat. Through a thoughtfully-designed addition and careful reorganization of interior space, the home now seamlessly combines the charm of its original structure with modern comforts and expanded living spaces, all while preserving views of the stunning riverfront setting. Key Features: 1. Expanded Entry and Primary Suite: The newly created entryway offers a spacious and functional welcome to the home, featuring a practical laundry room and ample storage space. The private primary bedroom suite, complete with a modern ensuite bathroom, provides a peaceful sanctuary. 2. Sunroom for Year-Round Enjoyment: A light-filled sunroom extends the home’s outdoor living season by offering protection from the elements, allowing the family to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views throughout the year. The room features warm pine finishes on the walls and ceiling, with timber accents that complement the natural surroundings. 3. New River-Facing Deck: The large deck offers a perfect spot for family gatherings and relaxation, with unimpeded views of the water thanks to the use of a glass railing. Designed for both entertaining and quiet reflection, it’s a key feature that strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor living. 4. Exterior Renovation: The exterior has been fully updated, blending the old cottage’s character with the new additions. A new roof and siding unify the entire structure, giving it a refreshed, cohesive. 5. Reconfigured Interior Spaces: The renovation reorganized key interior spaces, including the relocation of the basement stairs to allow for an expanded completely renovated kitchen and large, open eating area adjacent to the sunroom. This successful renovation enhances both the functionality and aesthetic of the cottage, transforming it into a beautiful, all-season home that meets the evolving needs of its owners while maintaining a strong connection to the waterfront environment.

This project showcases the transformation of a modest family cottage into a highly-functional, year-round waterfront retreat. Through a thoughtfully-designed addition and careful reorganization of interior space, the home now seamlessly combines the charm of its original structure with modern comforts and expanded living spaces, all while preserving views of the stunning riverfront setting. Key Features: 1. Expanded Entry and Primary Suite: The newly created entryway offers a spacious and functional welcome to the home, featuring a practical laundry room and ample storage space. The private primary bedroom suite, complete with a modern ensuite bathroom, provides a peaceful sanctuary. 2. Sunroom for Year-Round Enjoyment: A light-filled sunroom extends the home’s outdoor living season by offering protection from the elements, allowing the family to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views throughout the year. The room features warm pine finishes on the walls and ceiling, with timber accents that complement the natural surroundings. 3. New River-Facing Deck: The large deck offers a perfect spot for family gatherings and relaxation, with unimpeded views of the water thanks to the use of a glass railing. Designed for both entertaining and quiet reflection, it’s a key feature that strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor living. 4. Exterior Renovation: The exterior has been fully updated, blending the old cottage’s character with the new additions. A new roof and siding unify the entire structure, giving it a refreshed, cohesive. 5. Reconfigured Interior Spaces: The renovation reorganized key interior spaces, including the relocation of the basement stairs to allow for an expanded completely renovated kitchen and large, open eating area adjacent to the sunroom. This successful renovation enhances both the functionality and aesthetic of the cottage, transforming it into a beautiful, all-season home that meets the evolving needs of its owners while maintaining a strong connection to the waterfront environment.

Our clients wanted to utilize this particular area of their home and really give it a function. It has been many things over the years: bonus room, dining area, etc. The kitchen is the natural gathering spot. They wanted to create a space that was an extension of the kitchen for entertaining and serving family and friends. Architect, Cynthia Karegeannes was hired to draw up plans for a mudroom to corral the couple’s two dogs and stash the pet’s leashes, treats, etc. A large butler pantry was imagined with a full size refrigerator, prep sink, dishwasher and custom cabinetry to have items handy for entertaining. Innovative Construction, helped finalize the details and implemented the plans for the new addition. Interior Designer, Beth Weltlich with The House Dressing worked with homeowners, to select materials and finishes to unify the areas of the existing kitchen and the new spaces. A custom banquette was created with room under the staircase so that all of the space could be utilized. Furniture and accessories are still in the works as the homeowners let the area evolve to see exactly what their needs are. A collaborative effort-for sure! The challenges included creating three separate areas (mudroom, banquette and butler pantry) with storage and versatility in one existing space. Having this additional space that was not always utilized, the homeowners feel the new addition will become an integral part of the families' living area.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, GRAND AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL ADDITION UNDER $100,000 The homeowner purchased this Falls Church rambler in 1983. Built near the end of World War II, it had a very tight floor plan, including a 6’ x 12’ galley kitchen and a 6’ x 9’ dining room. After living in it for nearly 30 years without doing a significant remodel, he decided it was time to expand the entire first floor and include a gourmet kitchen. The first step was to remove the back load bearing wall and to add a 12’ x 24’ addition. The old galley kitchen was then combined with the old dining room to create a spacious, more comfortable dining room. The addition would contain the new kitchen and a den. A key focal point of the new kitchen is a large island that seats three and lets the owner, a culinary chef, entertain guests while he cooks. Light-colored custom wood cabinets with dark granite countertops are complemented by professional-quality stainless steel appliances and a stunning stainless steel backsplash. Additionally, the kitchen is open to the new den area, giving breadth to the overall floor plan. Amenities of the addition include a 12-foot vaulted ceiling, surround sound, recess lights, palladium windows and a large bay window below the kitchen sink. The new design really lets in a lot of natural light. And because the addition is built to modern insulating standards, the addition is much warmer than the rest of the house. The end result of the project is a renovation that offers a seamless connection between the new addition and the old home, inside and out. Plus, the homeowner has his dream kitchen to serve his family and friends gourmet meals.

Our clients live in a typical, traditional suburban home. One homeowner had been collecting wine and requested a dedicated room for storing, tasting and entertaining that felt as if he were in a California wine cellar. Our design team created a room with Old World touches including a dramatic arched entrance bordered by decorative faux stone quoins. The doorway has two dark wood and glass doors. Key features include two built-in dual zone, wine refrigerators, a flagstone look floor, mural on the back wall with an arch that looks as if there is a wine cellar behind it. Furnishings include a custom made, circular epoxy table with a live edge, 4 bar stools, two upholstered chairs and end table. Rough-hewn look beams adorn the ceilings and the walls and ceilings are hand troweled plaster with a glaze.

With the popularity of functional spaces and industrial interiors, track lighting is a key essential to interior illumination. Using a single electrical box, the Flexigon Track Lighting Kit can be configured into the coolest arrangements making it an easy way to brighten up your room by adding more light with a single electrical install. The moveable canopy allows you to place it wherever you see fit and the six-track heads are moveable and adjustable to help direct light wherever you need it most. Plus, this light can be installed in any room - shape it in a u-shape for your bedroom, in an s-shape for your kitchen or even place two parallel to each other in your living room to create a stellar additional layer of light.

Our clients live in a typical, traditional suburban home. One homeowner had been collecting wine and requested a dedicated room for storing, tasting and entertaining that felt as if he were in a California wine cellar. Our design team created a room with Old World touches including a dramatic arched entrance bordered by decorative faux stone quoins. The doorway has two dark wood and glass doors. Key features include two built-in dual zone, wine refrigerators, a flagstone look floor, mural on the back wall with an arch that looks as if there is a wine cellar behind it. Furnishings include a custom made, circular epoxy table with a live edge, 4 bar stools, two upholstered chairs and end table. Rough-hewn look beams adorn the ceilings and the walls and ceilings are hand troweled plaster with a glaze.

Welcome to this meticulously maintained Colonial nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in desirable Colchester! This turn-key home has beautiful curb appeal with professional landscaping, a welcoming front porch with rocking chairs, and a spacious backyard retreat straight out of a New England postcard featuring both a stone patio with gas fire pit and above-ground pool. Inside, discover a thoughtfully updated interior with hardwood floors, a STYLISH eat-in kitchen with white cabinetry and granite countertops, breakfast bar, formal dining room with elegant chandelier, and stunning family room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace. The finished basement offers versatile space with a home office area, work out area and media room while not taking away from the storage options! LOVE the 3 generous bedrooms upstairs include a sumptuous primary suite with walk in closet and remodeled bathroom with frameless enclosed tiled shower. Additional highlights include tastefully updated modern bathrooms, multiple outdoor living spaces including a large rear patio for entertaining, and proximity to schools, shopping, and major commuting routes. Windows have been replaced. Only an 7 minute stroll to the popular brewery Hop Culture Farms & Brew Co and close to Cato Corner Farms, Priam Vineyards, Harry Place and Stop and Shop are all within 10 minutes; be in Hartford in under 30!! This lovingly cared-for home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience for you to enjoy immediately!