Search results for "Increased efficiency" in Home Design Ideas

Embarking on a garage remodeling project is a transformative endeavor that can significantly enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the space.
By investing in tailored storage solutions such as cabinets, wall-mounted organizers, and overhead racks, one can efficiently declutter the area and create a more organized storage system. Flooring upgrades, such as epoxy coatings or durable tiles, not only improve the garage's appearance but also provide a resilient surface.
Adding custom workbenches or tool storage solutions contributes to a more efficient and user-friendly workspace. Additionally, incorporating proper lighting and ventilation ensures a well-lit and comfortable environment.
A remodeled garage not only increases property value but also opens up possibilities for alternative uses, such as a home gym, workshop, or hobby space, making it a worthwhile investment for both practicality and lifestyle improvement.

Melissa and Steve purchased our National Award Winning Green Certified Remodeled Home. They had moved to Colorado previously to expand Business opportunities, but found that they missed being near their extended family members and Melissa’s native city and state. They wanted a home in a quiet neighborhood that suited their needs and had been updated to current design trends and amenities. With 2 young children a single-story home appealed to them.
Steve primarily worked from home, using the formal Living Room as his home office which was central to the Kitchen and main living areas. As their children grew, it became increasingly difficult to With 4 children, their daily activities were split between the 1st and second floors, making it difficult to coordinate activities amongst them. Also, with a large extended family close-by, get-togethers were cramped and uncomfortable.
With the added 1st floor living space, they are now able to all comfortably gather together and spend more quality time with their family and friends.
Design Features
Seamless Transition into the adjoining Kitchen and Living Room, separating the two with a light and bright 15-Lite Double French Door.
Light and bright natural hardwood flooring.
A bright and open floor plan achieved by introducing a double 15-Lite French door in the Kitchen and generous amount of double-hung low-e windows.
Window Well in the Roof to accommodate required foot-print placement.
Avoidance of installing a Pull-Down Attic Access.
No-VOC Paints and Finishes.
Durable Exterior Construction
No-Maintenance Composite and PVC Low-E Windows and Doors
Cement Fiber Siding
Cement Fiber and PVC Trim
Life-time Architectural Shingles
Metal Roof Flashing with Gutter Kick-Outs
Superior Window Flashing and Water Intrusion Sealing measures
Energy Efficient and Green Features
1st floor HVAC Compressor and Air Handler replaced with a more efficient 15 Seer unit.
Floor penetrations and perimeter bottom plates caulked and air sealed.
No-VOC Paints and Finishes.
Durable Exterior Construction
No-Maintenance Composite and PVC Low-E Windows
Cement Fiber Siding
Cement Fiber and PVC Trim
Life-time Architectural Shingles
Metal Roof Flashing with Gutter Kick-Outs
Superior Window Flashing and Water Intrusion sealing measures

As readers of architect/designer Katie Hutchison’s book The New Cottage (Taunton Press 2018), these homeowners approached KHS about designing a second home in Westerly, Rhode Island. Theirs is a double-long lot with street frontage on both ends, a short walk from the water. In addition to the new house, their wish list included a new lap pool (with associated patio) and new garage.
Aesthetically, they were looking to create an informally elegant, human-scaled family compound, engaged with the site and connected with the outdoors. They further requested sustainable features/systems and low-maintenance materials.
In response, KHS proposed an ell-shaped house that wraps two sides of a lap pool/patio. A porch-fronted two-story gabled component faces the main street and is flanked by the one-story primary suite in one leg of the ell and the one-story kitchen and rear porches in the other leg of the ell. The house is an efficient +/- 2800 square-feet and contains four bedrooms and three and one half bathrooms.
A salt-box inspired garage is detached so as not to increase the building massing. It helps shape outdoor spaces and doesn’t block daylight and direct exterior access from the house. It faces the secondary street. Driveways off both streets offer different modes of arrival.
The south-facing roof of the two-story volume – which includes three bedrooms and two baths – and the south-facing one-story roof of the kitchen and rear porches, as well as the south-facing roof of the garage support 47 photovoltaic solar panels, providing the bulk of the property’s electric power.
Two oversized exterior folding glass doors off the living area and kitchen blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, welcoming abundant daylight, views of the pool and patio, as well as summer breezes. An airy living/dining area includes a long custom window seat and borders a semi-open kitchen beneath a cathedral ceiling. Living area built-in shelving frames a TV and surrounds a modern efficient pellet stove.
A cheerful interior palette of soft hues features pops of color, Scandinavian wallpapers, custom textiles, and a dash of warm wood accents in the form of counters, built-in desks, and custom furnishings. On the exterior, natural shingles side the main volume and environmentally friendly and durable Boral board-and-batten side the one-story components and garage, communicating a legible hierarchy of spaces. The overall effect is a breezy, crisp New England home, pool patio, and garage for today’s living.
Find the right local pro for your project

The front elevation of this home got a makeover with new Marvin Windows and Doors. Originally the home had a single front door with two sidelights. The entire assembly was removed and we installed a Marvin double front door. Going from a builder grade, single door to the Marvin Elevate Swinging French Doors really set this house apart, creating an elegant front entry. A bronze exterior clad was chosen, while the interior wood was stained to match the home’s original trim color.
Two twin casement windows and one single casement window were removed. These were replaced with Marvin Ultimate Casement windows. These Marvin Signature Series windows have an extruded aluminum exterior, and a rich wood interior. Like the front doors, all the new windows were stained to match the existing trim.
The doors and windows were all stained prior to installation. This kept installation time to a minimum, inconveniencing the homeowners as little as possible.
All the windows open quickly and easily with a crank out operation. The windows offer a contemporary option with a flush exterior and narrow jamb.
These windows have a sleek design and narrow jamb which makes them ideal for replacement applications, minimizing the tear-down of existing frames and walls. Their unique wash mode allows access to both sides of glass from inside the home.
The doors and windows have the Marvin Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) grill design which is an energy-efficient way to create the look of authentic divided lites. SDL bars are permanently adhered to both sides of the glass. They are available with or without a spacer bar installed between the glass to create even more depth.
Beyond a fresh, new look these Marvin Windows and Doors have increased the value of this home, and made it more energy efficient. If you are considering replacing windows or doors in your home, contact us today.
Dimensions In Wood is more than 40 years of custom cabinets, but we want YOU to know the Dimensions we cover are endless: custom cabinets, quality water, appliances, countertops, wooden beams, Marvin windows or doors, and more. We can handle every aspect of your kitchen, bathroom or home remodel.

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there.
It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view.
The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors.
The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there.
It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view.
The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors.
The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there.
It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view.
The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors.
The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

As readers of architect/designer Katie Hutchison’s book The New Cottage (Taunton Press 2018), these homeowners approached KHS about designing a second home in Westerly, Rhode Island. Theirs is a double-long lot with street frontage on both ends, a short walk from the water. In addition to the new house, their wish list included a new lap pool (with associated patio) and new garage.
Aesthetically, they were looking to create an informally elegant, human-scaled family compound, engaged with the site and connected with the outdoors. They further requested sustainable features/systems and low-maintenance materials.
In response, KHS proposed an ell-shaped house that wraps two sides of a lap pool/patio. A porch-fronted two-story gabled component faces the main street and is flanked by the one-story primary suite in one leg of the ell and the one-story kitchen and rear porches in the other leg of the ell. The house is an efficient +/- 2800 square-feet and contains four bedrooms and three and one half bathrooms.
A salt-box inspired garage is detached so as not to increase the building massing. It helps shape outdoor spaces and doesn’t block daylight and direct exterior access from the house. It faces the secondary street. Driveways off both streets offer different modes of arrival.
The south-facing roof of the two-story volume – which includes three bedrooms and two baths – and the south-facing one-story roof of the kitchen and rear porches, as well as the south-facing roof of the garage support 47 photovoltaic solar panels, providing the bulk of the property’s electric power.
Two oversized exterior folding glass doors off the living area and kitchen blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, welcoming abundant daylight, views of the pool and patio, as well as summer breezes. An airy living/dining area includes a long custom window seat and borders a semi-open kitchen beneath a cathedral ceiling. Living area built-in shelving frames a TV and surrounds a modern efficient pellet stove.
A cheerful interior palette of soft hues features pops of color, Scandinavian wallpapers, custom textiles, and a dash of warm wood accents in the form of counters, built-in desks, and custom furnishings. On the exterior, natural shingles side the main volume and environmentally friendly and durable Boral board-and-batten side the one-story components and garage, communicating a legible hierarchy of spaces. The overall effect is a breezy, crisp New England home, pool patio, and garage for today’s living.

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there.
It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view.
The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors.
The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

As readers of architect/designer Katie Hutchison’s book The New Cottage (Taunton Press 2018), these homeowners approached KHS about designing a second home in Westerly, Rhode Island. Theirs is a double-long lot with street frontage on both ends, a short walk from the water. In addition to the new house, their wish list included a new lap pool (with associated patio) and new garage.
Aesthetically, they were looking to create an informally elegant, human-scaled family compound, engaged with the site and connected with the outdoors. They further requested sustainable features/systems and low-maintenance materials.
In response, KHS proposed an ell-shaped house that wraps two sides of a lap pool/patio. A porch-fronted two-story gabled component faces the main street and is flanked by the one-story primary suite in one leg of the ell and the one-story kitchen and rear porches in the other leg of the ell. The house is an efficient +/- 2800 square-feet and contains four bedrooms and three and one half bathrooms.
A salt-box inspired garage is detached so as not to increase the building massing. It helps shape outdoor spaces and doesn’t block daylight and direct exterior access from the house. It faces the secondary street. Driveways off both streets offer different modes of arrival.
The south-facing roof of the two-story volume – which includes three bedrooms and two baths – and the south-facing one-story roof of the kitchen and rear porches, as well as the south-facing roof of the garage support 47 photovoltaic solar panels, providing the bulk of the property’s electric power.
Two oversized exterior folding glass doors off the living area and kitchen blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, welcoming abundant daylight, views of the pool and patio, as well as summer breezes. An airy living/dining area includes a long custom window seat and borders a semi-open kitchen beneath a cathedral ceiling. Living area built-in shelving frames a TV and surrounds a modern efficient pellet stove.
A cheerful interior palette of soft hues features pops of color, Scandinavian wallpapers, custom textiles, and a dash of warm wood accents in the form of counters, built-in desks, and custom furnishings. On the exterior, natural shingles side the main volume and environmentally friendly and durable Boral board-and-batten side the one-story components and garage, communicating a legible hierarchy of spaces. The overall effect is a breezy, crisp New England home, pool patio, and garage for today’s living.

This beautiful 22' x 15' custom sunroom was designed and built by Vision Art Aluminium to create an additional family gathering space that can be enjoyed throughout all four seasons. Featuring fully insulated aluminum and glass construction, this modern sunroom provides year-round comfort while maximizing natural light and outdoor views.
A standout feature of this project is the wide-opening bi-fold door system, which allows the entire space to open seamlessly to the outdoors during the summer months. The large glass panels create a bright, airy atmosphere while delivering the perfect balance of indoor comfort and outdoor living.
Designed as a complete turnkey project, this custom sunroom enhances the home's functionality, increases property value, and provides the ideal space for entertaining guests, relaxing with family, and enjoying panoramic backyard views.
Project Features:
• 22' x 15' Custom Sunroom Addition
• Four-Season Insulated Construction
• Wide-Opening Aluminum Bi-Fold Doors
• Energy-Efficient Glass System
• Modern "More Glass, Less Frame" Design
• Family Gathering and Entertainment Space
• Custom Design, Manufacturing, and Installation by Vision Art Aluminium

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.

As readers of architect/designer Katie Hutchison’s book The New Cottage (Taunton Press 2018), these homeowners approached KHS about designing a second home in Westerly, Rhode Island. Theirs is a double-long lot with street frontage on both ends, a short walk from the water. In addition to the new house, their wish list included a new lap pool (with associated patio) and new garage.
Aesthetically, they were looking to create an informally elegant, human-scaled family compound, engaged with the site and connected with the outdoors. They further requested sustainable features/systems and low-maintenance materials.
In response, KHS proposed an ell-shaped house that wraps two sides of a lap pool/patio. A porch-fronted two-story gabled component faces the main street and is flanked by the one-story primary suite in one leg of the ell and the one-story kitchen and rear porches in the other leg of the ell. The house is an efficient +/- 2800 square-feet and contains four bedrooms and three and one half bathrooms.
A salt-box inspired garage is detached so as not to increase the building massing. It helps shape outdoor spaces and doesn’t block daylight and direct exterior access from the house. It faces the secondary street. Driveways off both streets offer different modes of arrival.
The south-facing roof of the two-story volume – which includes three bedrooms and two baths – and the south-facing one-story roof of the kitchen and rear porches, as well as the south-facing roof of the garage support 47 photovoltaic solar panels, providing the bulk of the property’s electric power.
Two oversized exterior folding glass doors off the living area and kitchen blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, welcoming abundant daylight, views of the pool and patio, as well as summer breezes. An airy living/dining area includes a long custom window seat and borders a semi-open kitchen beneath a cathedral ceiling. Living area built-in shelving frames a TV and surrounds a modern efficient pellet stove.
A cheerful interior palette of soft hues features pops of color, Scandinavian wallpapers, custom textiles, and a dash of warm wood accents in the form of counters, built-in desks, and custom furnishings. On the exterior, natural shingles side the main volume and environmentally friendly and durable Boral board-and-batten side the one-story components and garage, communicating a legible hierarchy of spaces. The overall effect is a breezy, crisp New England home, pool patio, and garage for today’s living.

The front elevation of this home got a makeover with new Marvin Windows and Doors. Originally the home had a single front door with two sidelights. The entire assembly was removed and we installed a Marvin double front door. Going from a builder grade, single door to the Marvin Elevate Swinging French Doors really set this house apart, creating an elegant front entry. A bronze exterior clad was chosen, while the interior wood was stained to match the home’s original trim color.
Two twin casement windows and one single casement window were removed. These were replaced with Marvin Ultimate Casement windows. These Marvin Signature Series windows have an extruded aluminum exterior, and a rich wood interior. Like the front doors, all the new windows were stained to match the existing trim.
The doors and windows were all stained prior to installation. This kept installation time to a minimum, inconveniencing the homeowners as little as possible.
All the windows open quickly and easily with a crank out operation. The windows offer a contemporary option with a flush exterior and narrow jamb.
These windows have a sleek design and narrow jamb which makes them ideal for replacement applications, minimizing the tear-down of existing frames and walls. Their unique wash mode allows access to both sides of glass from inside the home.
The doors and windows have the Marvin Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) grill design which is an energy-efficient way to create the look of authentic divided lites. SDL bars are permanently adhered to both sides of the glass. They are available with or without a spacer bar installed between the glass to create even more depth.
Beyond a fresh, new look these Marvin Windows and Doors have increased the value of this home, and made it more energy efficient. If you are considering replacing windows or doors in your home, contact us today.
Dimensions In Wood is more than 40 years of custom cabinets, but we want YOU to know the Dimensions we cover are endless: custom cabinets, quality water, appliances, countertops, wooden beams, Marvin windows or doors, and more. We can handle every aspect of your kitchen, bathroom or home remodel.

In this primary bathroom, the lighting scheme was key to achieve the client’s goals and create a space where the client would enjoy being. The bathroom felt cramped, dark, visually heavy. The client was also claustrophobic, making the use of the space uncomfortable.
The goal was to transform this space into a relaxed modern spa-like atmosphere, rethink and simplify the floorplan avoiding visual clutter, access natural light, add efficient lighting, and create more visual space.
The lighting plan was crucial to increase visual space. My first thought was to add a skylight to access natural light that is so effective in enlarging the feel of a space.
After looking at the attic and roof lines it became clear that this was not an option. After some research I found the perfect solution: a smart light fixture that mimics a window. It is installed between studs or ceiling joists. The fixture replicates the light of the sun during the day. It goes from soft morning light - to bright noon - to soft dawn light. By recessing the fixture into the ceiling, the skylight-look and extra height was achieved.
The benefits of this light go beyond beautiful design. The fixture is sustainable, energy efficient, and made to last for decades. It regulates the body’s circadian rhythm, helping against sleeping problems and seasonal affective disorder. It also integrates biophilic design, creating connections to nature and benefiting people that spend hours indoors.
The use of mood lighting was also key, creating a cozy, welcoming feel to this home-spa. All the lights are dimmable, and plenty of indirect light sources, like the gorgeous vanity pendants and LED mirrors, create the perfect setting. Not forgetting to mention the soft curves of the bathtub chandelier. This is the perfect place to relax in the bubbly bathtub!

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there.
It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view.
The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors.
The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

Heated Driveway System Installation. This project showcases a professionally installed hydronic driveway system. The Red PEX tubing is laid out over a reinforced rebar grid before concrete is poured. This system circulates heated water through the tubing to melt snow and ice during winter, providing a clear and safe surface without the need for shoveling or deicing chemicals. This is Ideal for cold climates, this energy-efficient solution increases convenience, safety, and curb appeal.

The front elevation of this home got a makeover with new Marvin Windows and Doors. Originally the home had a single front door with two sidelights. The entire assembly was removed and we installed a Marvin double front door. Going from a builder grade, single door to the Marvin Elevate Swinging French Doors really set this house apart, creating an elegant front entry. A bronze exterior clad was chosen, while the interior wood was stained to match the home’s original trim color.
Two twin casement windows and one single casement window were removed. These were replaced with Marvin Ultimate Casement windows. These Marvin Signature Series windows have an extruded aluminum exterior, and a rich wood interior. Like the front doors, all the new windows were stained to match the existing trim.
The doors and windows were all stained prior to installation. This kept installation time to a minimum, inconveniencing the homeowners as little as possible.
All the windows open quickly and easily with a crank out operation. The windows offer a contemporary option with a flush exterior and narrow jamb.
These windows have a sleek design and narrow jamb which makes them ideal for replacement applications, minimizing the tear-down of existing frames and walls. Their unique wash mode allows access to both sides of glass from inside the home.
The doors and windows have the Marvin Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) grill design which is an energy-efficient way to create the look of authentic divided lites. SDL bars are permanently adhered to both sides of the glass. They are available with or without a spacer bar installed between the glass to create even more depth.
Beyond a fresh, new look these Marvin Windows and Doors have increased the value of this home, and made it more energy efficient. If you are considering replacing windows or doors in your home, contact us today.
Dimensions In Wood is more than 40 years of custom cabinets, but we want YOU to know the Dimensions we cover are endless: custom cabinets, quality water, appliances, countertops, wooden beams, Marvin windows or doors, and more. We can handle every aspect of your kitchen, bathroom or home remodel.

The front elevation of this home got a makeover with new Marvin Windows and Doors. Originally the home had a single front door with two sidelights. The entire assembly was removed and we installed a Marvin double front door. Going from a builder grade, single door to the Marvin Elevate Swinging French Doors really set this house apart, creating an elegant front entry. A bronze exterior clad was chosen, while the interior wood was stained to match the home’s original trim color.
Two twin casement windows and one single casement window were removed. These were replaced with Marvin Ultimate Casement windows. These Marvin Signature Series windows have an extruded aluminum exterior, and a rich wood interior. Like the front doors, all the new windows were stained to match the existing trim.
The doors and windows were all stained prior to installation. This kept installation time to a minimum, inconveniencing the homeowners as little as possible.
All the windows open quickly and easily with a crank out operation. The windows offer a contemporary option with a flush exterior and narrow jamb.
These windows have a sleek design and narrow jamb which makes them ideal for replacement applications, minimizing the tear-down of existing frames and walls. Their unique wash mode allows access to both sides of glass from inside the home.
The doors and windows have the Marvin Simulated Divided Lite (SDL) grill design which is an energy-efficient way to create the look of authentic divided lites. SDL bars are permanently adhered to both sides of the glass. They are available with or without a spacer bar installed between the glass to create even more depth.
Beyond a fresh, new look these Marvin Windows and Doors have increased the value of this home, and made it more energy efficient. If you are considering replacing windows or doors in your home, contact us today.
Dimensions In Wood is more than 40 years of custom cabinets, but we want YOU to know the Dimensions we cover are endless: custom cabinets, quality water, appliances, countertops, wooden beams, Marvin windows or doors, and more. We can handle every aspect of your kitchen, bathroom or home remodel.

We were given the challenge of designing a house overlooking a pond on a site constrained by wetlands. Our client had an interest in permanence and solidity and a desire to work with architectural concrete. Additionally, the client desired interiors that would showcase their substantial art collection. Our design approach began with the footprint of an L-shaped courtyard house, which in part, was determined by the limited buildable area. The house is sited on a natural rise in the land, allowing the first floor elevation to rise 15 ft above the pond’s surface; this height provides dynamic views through the trees that separate the house from the pond. Ultimately, our design leverages the inherent capabilities of architectural concrete i.e. its structural capacity; the material allows for bold cantilevers and expanses of glass, creating greater transparency between interior and exterior environments.
The interior palette is comprised of rift sawn oak with 16-inch wide oak plank flooring, oak casework and millwork, a stainless steel and glass main staircase, and minimalist concrete details throughout. On the upper level, the plan accommodates a master bedroom suite, three children’s bedrooms, and a family room. The first floor includes a guest bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining room, office, and family room. The ground level has a recreational room, a mudroom, and office/studio. The site plan employs native plantings and includes a small resistance pool in the courtyard.
Concrete will be utilized for all of the house’s structural and insulation components. This method modulates the fluctuation of interior temperature, creating both an energy-efficient envelope and enough concrete mass to keep temperatures moderate and consistent throughout a 24-hour day. The employment of triple-glazed windows and a triple-glazed aluminum curtain wall further increases the project’s energy efficiency and allows the house to have abundant glass. Natural light permeates the interior and affords spectacular view in all directions of both Todd Pond and the neighboring woodlands.
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