Like many California ranch homes built in the 1950s, this original master bathroom was not really a "master bath." My clients, who only three years ago purchased the home from the family of the original owner, were saddled with a small, dysfunctional space. Chief among the dysfunctions: a vanity only 30" high, and an inconveniently placed window that forced the too-low vanity mirror to reflect only the waist and partial torso--not the face--of anyone standing in front of it. They wanted not only a more spacious bathroom but a bedroom as well, so we worked in tandem with an architect and contractor to come up with a fantastic new space: a true Master Suite. In order to refine a design concept for the soon-to-be larger space, and thereby narrow down material choices, my clients and I had a brainstorming session: we spoke of an elegant Old World/ European bedroom and bathroom, a luxurious bath that would reference a Roman spa, and finally the idea of a Hammam was brought into the mix. We blended these ideas together in oil-rubbed bronze fixtures, and a tiny tile mosaic in beautiful Bursa Beige marble from Turkey and white Thassos marble from Greece. The new generously sized bathroom boasts a jetted soaking tub, a very large walk-in shower, a double-sided fireplace (facing the tub on the bath side), and a luxurious 8' long vanity with double sinks and a storage tower. The vanity wall is covered with a mosaic vine pattern in a beautiful Bursa Beige marble from Turkey and white Thassos marble from Greece,. The custom Larson Juhl framed mirrors are flanked by gorgeous hand-wrought scones from Hubbardton Forge which echo the vine and leaf pattern in the mosaic. And the vanity itself features an LED strip in the toe-kick which allows one to see in the middle of the night without having to turn on a shockingly bright overhead fixture. At the other end of the master bath, a luxurious jetted tub nestles by a fireplace in the bay window area. Views of my clients' garden can be seen while soaking in bubbles. The over-sized walk-in shower features a paneled wainscoting effect which I designed in Crema Marfil marble. The vine mosaic continues in the shower, topped by green onyx squares. A rainshower head and a hand-held spray on a bar provides showering options. The shower floor slopes gently in one direction toward a hidden linear drain; this allows the floor to be read as a continuation of the main space, without being interrupted by a center drain. Photo by Jeff Fiorito

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This homeowner’s daughter originally contacted us on behalf of her parents who were reluctant to begin the remodeling process in their home due to the inconvenience and dust. Once we met and they dipped their toes into the process, we were off to the races. The existing bathroom in this beautiful historical 1920’s home, had not been updated since the 70’/80’s as evidenced by the blue carpeting, mirrored walls and dropped ceilings. In addition, there was very little storage, and some health setbacks had made the bathroom difficult to maneuver with its tub shower. Once we demoed, we discovered everything we expected to find in a home that had not been updated for many years. We got to work bringing all the electrical and plumbing up to code, and it was just as dusty and dirty as the homeowner’s anticipated! Once the space was demoed, we got to work building our new plan. We eliminated the existing tub and created a large walk-in curb-less shower. An existing closet was eliminated and in its place, we planned a custom built in with spots for linens, jewelry and general storage. Because of the small space, we had to be very creative with the shower footprint, so we clipped one of the walls for more clearance behind the sink. The bathroom features a beautiful custom mosaic floor tile as well as tiled walls throughout the space. This required lots of coordination between the carpenter and tile setter to make sure that the framing and tile design were all properly aligned. We worked around an existing radiator and a unique original leaded window that was architecturally significant to the façade of the home. We had a lot of extra depth behind the original toilet location, so we built the wall out a bit, moved the toilet forward and then created some extra storage space behind the commode. We settled on mirrored mullioned doors to bounce lots of light around the smaller space. We also went back and forth on deciding between a single and double vanity, and in the end decided the single vanity allowed for more counter space, more storage below and for the design to breath a bit in the smaller space. I’m so happy with this decision! To build on the luxurious feel of the space, we added a heated towel bar and heated flooring. One of the concerns the homeowners had was having a comfortable floor to walk on. They realized that carpet was not a very practical solution but liked the comfort it had provided. Heated floors are the perfect solution. The room is decidedly traditional from its intricate mosaic marble floor to the calacutta marble clad walls. Elegant gold chandelier style fixtures, marble countertops and Morris & Co. beaded wallpaper provide an opulent feel to the space. The gray monochromatic pallet keeps it feeling fresh and up-to-date. The beautiful leaded glass window is an important architectural feature at the front of the house. In the summertime, the homeowners love having the window open for fresh air and ventilation. We love it too! The curb-less shower features a small fold down bench that can be used if needed and folded up when not. The shower also features a custom niche for storing shampoo and other hair products. The linear drain is built into the tilework and is barely visible. A frameless glass door that swings both in and out completes the luxurious feel. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

When Tom and Michelle Stien decided to remodel their kitchen, they chose Advance Design Studio to make it happen. They were looking for an innovative design that would open up an awkward wall, and we're hoping to remove some half walls that closed off their family room. "Of all the people we had come and give us quotes for our project, ADS/Scott, was the only one who came in with an idea right off the bat for what we could do. His knowledge of design and code was evident from the start," said the Stiens. The new design increased the seating area with a large peninsula, and the cooking area was expanded to accommodate Tom's cooking skills. A warming drawer was incorporated beneath a nearly hidden microwave drawer, along with a clever pull out for increased pantry storage. A built in message board area was custom designed for kids art and family communication. Roll out trays grace every base cabinet for easy pull out storage and a single floating shelf ties the contemporary kitchen design together. Starlight quartz countertops create ease of clean up, and the look is finished off with sharp gray and white mosaic backsplash tiles. The Stiens really liked a clean modern look, so the new crisp transitional kitchen design incorporated bright white shaker cabinetry from Medallion with gray and metal accents along with a modern feel. "Scott's presentation of what we could expect with ADS was clear and concise. He gave us a great deal of confidence in how the project would be handled". Homeowners are frequently concerned about project budgets that get quickly get out of control. "Scott's quote was well thought out, organized and offered options based on our budget," said Michelle. "I was worried about the project budget changing as we went through the process, but they did a good job managing the situation and minimized change orders as much as possible." When asked about their overall experience with their kitchen renovation he Stien's said; "Scott, Justin, Matt and Jason were great! They were all very friendly, personable, responsible and trustworthy. Advance Design definitely met and exceeded our expectations. Remodeling is a very challenging process to endure, but ADS minimized discomfort and inconvenience as much as possible and kept on schedule. The end result was well worth the investment in time and money." Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This homeowner’s daughter originally contacted us on behalf of her parents who were reluctant to begin the remodeling process in their home due to the inconvenience and dust. Once we met and they dipped their toes into the process, we were off to the races. The existing bathroom in this beautiful historical 1920’s home, had not been updated since the 70’/80’s as evidenced by the blue carpeting, mirrored walls and dropped ceilings. In addition, there was very little storage, and some health setbacks had made the bathroom difficult to maneuver with its tub shower. Once we demoed, we discovered everything we expected to find in a home that had not been updated for many years. We got to work bringing all the electrical and plumbing up to code, and it was just as dusty and dirty as the homeowner’s anticipated! Once the space was demoed, we got to work building our new plan. We eliminated the existing tub and created a large walk-in curb-less shower. An existing closet was eliminated and in its place, we planned a custom built in with spots for linens, jewelry and general storage. Because of the small space, we had to be very creative with the shower footprint, so we clipped one of the walls for more clearance behind the sink. The bathroom features a beautiful custom mosaic floor tile as well as tiled walls throughout the space. This required lots of coordination between the carpenter and tile setter to make sure that the framing and tile design were all properly aligned. We worked around an existing radiator and a unique original leaded window that was architecturally significant to the façade of the home. We had a lot of extra depth behind the original toilet location, so we built the wall out a bit, moved the toilet forward and then created some extra storage space behind the commode. We settled on mirrored mullioned doors to bounce lots of light around the smaller space. We also went back and forth on deciding between a single and double vanity, and in the end decided the single vanity allowed for more counter space, more storage below and for the design to breath a bit in the smaller space. I’m so happy with this decision! To build on the luxurious feel of the space, we added a heated towel bar and heated flooring. One of the concerns the homeowners had was having a comfortable floor to walk on. They realized that carpet was not a very practical solution but liked the comfort it had provided. Heated floors are the perfect solution. The room is decidedly traditional from its intricate mosaic marble floor to the calacutta marble clad walls. Elegant gold chandelier style fixtures, marble countertops and Morris & Co. beaded wallpaper provide an opulent feel to the space. The gray monochromatic pallet keeps it feeling fresh and up-to-date. The beautiful leaded glass window is an important architectural feature at the front of the house. In the summertime, the homeowners love having the window open for fresh air and ventilation. We love it too! The curb-less shower features a small fold down bench that can be used if needed and folded up when not. The shower also features a custom niche for storing shampoo and other hair products. The linear drain is built into the tilework and is barely visible. A frameless glass door that swings both in and out completes the luxurious feel. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows. FEATURES: 1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness. 2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation. 3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder. 4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use. 5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings. 6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility. 7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple. Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty. Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance. To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was dragged in from wet swimmers. To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about. We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them. Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home- owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them. We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows. FEATURES: 1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness. 2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation. 3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder. 4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use. 5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings. 6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility. 7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple. Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty. Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance. To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows. FEATURES: 1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness. 2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation. 3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder. 4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use. 5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings. 6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility. 7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple. Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty. Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance. To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was dragged in from wet swimmers. To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about. We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them. Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home- owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them. We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows. FEATURES: 1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness. 2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation. 3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder. 4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use. 5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings. 6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility. 7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple. Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty. Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance. To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows. FEATURES: 1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness. 2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation. 3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder. 4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use. 5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings. 6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility. 7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple. Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty. Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance. To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

Luxury Vinyl Planks are a great option for water areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. The technology is advancing so that the product looks and feels like natural products like wood and stone.

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows. FEATURES: 1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness. 2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation. 3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder. 4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use. 5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings. 6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility. 7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple. Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty. Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance. To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

THE SETUP The original primary bathroom was characterized by a disjointed and segmented layout. The shower featured a bulky glass-block enclosure that overwhelmed the space visually. There was a considerable amount of open, unused space, and despite having a his and hers vanity, the arrangement lacked personal space for each user, as they shared the conjoined space between the sinks. The toilet was inconveniently located right by the door, with a half-wall partition meant to provide privacy but instead contributing to a cramped and unbalanced feel. Overall, the bathroom’s layout and design were fragmented, failing to make the most of the available space and lacking adequate storage solutions. Design objectives: - Reconfigure the layout to enhance functionality and flow. - Create an elegant, upscale aesthetic that is light and bright. - Incorporate specialized storage solutions for female hair care needs. - Increase overall storage capacity. - Develop a spa-like shower experience. - Provide a significant wow factor to the space. THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: - Repositioning the toilet to a more suitable location. - Designing hair care storage solutions without cluttering the elegant space. - Balancing an upscale, elegant design with a feminine touch in the color palette. - Increasing the brightness of the room without adding windows. - Completely replacing the existing shower to create a spa-like experience. - Planning new storage solutions without adding bulkiness or clutter to the cabinetry. THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Toilet Relocation: Moved the toilet by the window, creating a better overall layout that also opened up two full walls for cabinetry and storage solutions. Specialized Vanity Storage: The left side of the left vanity is the wife’s. Open shelves facing across the vanity can be used for decorative or daily needs items. Pull-out docking drawers with power outlets and metal basins handle hot hair appliances. Bright and Elegant Color Scheme: White cabinets, countertops, floors, and shower walls keep the space bright. The just-off-white wall color with a hint of pink adds a feminine touch. Thin wainscoting with white trim offers traditional-leaning elegance. Layered Lighting Strategy: Ceiling can lights, sconces, lighted mirrors, and toe-kick lighting were installed. Natural light-rated bulbs keep the space bright and natural-feeling. Spa-Like Shower: An extra-large shower was created using the same floor tile materials for continuity. Equipped with a Kohler Anthem system with a shower head, hand-held, and four body sprays. His and Hers niches for separate body care product storage. Enhanced Storage Solutions: Added a linen cabinet within the vanity area for efficient storage of towels and bathroom essentials. This elegant bathroom feels incredibly spacious now. The color palette and lights keep the room bright and cheery. Gold fixtures, the herringbone pattern on the floor, and exquisite trim work add an elegant touch. With the husband and wife having their own vanity wall sections joined at the corner, each user truly has their own space within the space. The clients are very happy with the final result.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was dragged in from wet swimmers. To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about. We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them. Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home- owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them. We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was dragged in from wet swimmers. To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about. We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them. Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home- owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them. We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was dragged in from wet swimmers. To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about. We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them. Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home- owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them. We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

When Tom and Michelle Stien decided to remodel their kitchen, they chose Advance Design Studio to make it happen. They were looking for an innovative design that would open up an awkward wall, and we're hoping to remove some half walls that closed off their family room. "Of all the people we had come and give us quotes for our project, ADS/Scott, was the only one who came in with an idea right off the bat for what we could do. His knowledge of design and code was evident from the start," said the Stiens. The new design increased the seating area with a large peninsula, and the cooking area was expanded to accommodate Tom's cooking skills. A warming drawer was incorporated beneath a nearly hidden microwave drawer, along with a clever pull out for increased pantry storage. A built in message board area was custom designed for kids art and family communication. Roll out trays grace every base cabinet for easy pull out storage and a single floating shelf ties the contemporary kitchen design together. Starlight quartz countertops create ease of clean up, and the look is finished off with sharp gray and white mosaic backsplash tiles. The Stiens really liked a clean modern look, so the new crisp transitional kitchen design incorporated bright white shaker cabinetry from Medallion with gray and metal accents along with a modern feel. "Scott's presentation of what we could expect with ADS was clear and concise. He gave us a great deal of confidence in how the project would be handled". Homeowners are frequently concerned about project budgets that get quickly get out of control. "Scott's quote was well thought out, organized and offered options based on our budget," said Michelle. "I was worried about the project budget changing as we went through the process, but they did a good job managing the situation and minimized change orders as much as possible." When asked about their overall experience with their kitchen renovation he Stien's said; "Scott, Justin, Matt and Jason were great! They were all very friendly, personable, responsible and trustworthy. Advance Design definitely met and exceeded our expectations. Remodeling is a very challenging process to endure, but ADS minimized discomfort and inconvenience as much as possible and kept on schedule. The end result was well worth the investment in time and money." Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was dragged in from wet swimmers. To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about. We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them. Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home- owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them. We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.