Search results for "Increased efficiency" in Home Design Ideas

Designer Danielle Lardani's clients love to cook, so they desired a new kitchen that appealed to them stylistically, while also supporting their passion for cooking. They wanted to include features that would make cooking together both efficient and enjoyable. Danielle fulfilled their dreams by creating a stunning, contemporary design that seamlessly matched the style of the rest of their home. She selected a horizontal, textured laminate by Wynnbrooke Cabinetry for the base perimeter cabinets, with a contrasting prep zone featuring Décor Cabinets in a Behr custom color, Adirondack Blue.
To increase the efficiency of the space, the layout of the kitchen was reconfigured to create a more functional work triangle between the range, the refrigerator, and the sink. The new layout allows the homeowners to prep, cook and serve food with ease. To further enhance the modern look of the kitchen and accommodate her clients’ wishes, she chose floating shelves and a full-height backsplash to give the space a more open feel.
Notable Design Details:
- Danielle designed the new layout to include ample counter space for food prep.
- She installed integrated lighting under the floating shelves and the upper cabinets in the prep-zone area to brighten these work spaces.
- Danielle included a custom dish drawer in her cabinetry design. This optimized storage and allowed dinnerware to be easily accessible.
- The knife block and utensil pull-out organizer keeps the clients’ cooking tools neat while also keeping them at arms reach.

Resting on a steep slope, this 4,000 square-foot residence boasts an expansive front deck from which beautiful views of the lake can be taken in. Having been in the family for decades, this renovation project looked at creating an outward looking living space with large entertaining areas. In keeping with the history of the camp, a classic approach to a shingle-style home was taken, for the main residence and two, small secondary structures, with forest green accents.
Redeveloping the main level living spaces, a flowing system was generated that allowed for direct access to the outdoors and also allowed the light to enter the interior spaces. Energy efficiency of the entire residence was increased, changing this from a three-season to a four-season home. Beautiful views of the lake can be seen from the main gathering spaces as well as from the cathedral ceiling, master bedroom. Elevated to experience its prior glory, this lakeside camp is ideal for any size family gathering and guarantees amazing memories.
Photographer: MTA

**Del Mar Laundry Room Remodel | Custom Cabinetry & Smart Storage Solutions**
This Del Mar laundry room remodel was designed to maximize storage, organization, and everyday functionality. MA Properties transformed the space with custom-built cabinetry, durable countertops, dedicated laundry storage, and a clean, modern layout tailored to the homeowner's needs.
The project focused on improving workflow, increasing usable storage space, and creating a bright, organized environment that complements the home's overall design. High-quality finishes, thoughtful cabinet configurations, and efficient space planning help keep laundry essentials concealed while maintaining easy access.
As a Del Mar general contractor, MA Properties specializes in laundry room remodeling, custom cabinetry, home renovations, and residential remodeling throughout Del Mar, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Rancho Santa Fe, Carmel Valley, and surrounding San Diego communities.
Whether you're looking to update a small laundry area or create a fully customized utility space, our team delivers practical solutions with attention to detail, craftsmanship, and long-term durability.
Find the right local pro for your project

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.

The Plantation just might be the perfect manufactured woodburning fireplace. 48” wide and an astounding 42” tall with slant back design. But perhaps most impressive, it includes a hearth floor that’s only 1 ½ inches above the ground. It’s the only UL 127 fireplace with a flush floor finish like the highest quality traditional masonry fireplaces. The Plantation uses Mosaic Masonry firebrick “splits” in a custom herringbone pattern for a naturally rich, custom look.
Features
Radiant design with a 42" tall opening to provide an exceptional view of the fire
Tall “Rumford” design with pitched rear wall for maximum radiant heat output
Flush hearth floor design (hearth spacer required for combustible floor installations)
Massive smoke dome for reliable operation
Fully insulated firebox for increased performance in colder climates
Split brick herringbone pattern in ivory or warm red
Heavy duty cast iron log grate with rugged forged andirons
Easy access damper control
Dual (left hand/right hand) outside air kits available for maximum performance
Uses IHP 12 DM (1700º) double wall air cooled wood burning chimney
Uses IHP 12 HT (2100º) heavy gauge double wall air cooled wood burning chimney, recommended for cold climates (required for Canada)
20 Year Limited Warranty
MOSAIC MASONRY™
Astria’s patented Mosaic Masonry™ features real firebrick finished interiors, with no visible sheet metal for the authentic richness and beauty of a custom, site-built masonry fireplace.

The owners of this stately Adams Morgan rowhouse wanted to reconfigure rooms on the two upper levels and to create a better layout for the nursery, guest room and au pair bathroom on the second floor. Our crews fully gutted and reframed the floors and walls of the front rooms, taking the opportunity of open walls to increase energy-efficiency with spray foam insulation at exposed exterior walls.
On the second floor, our designer was able to create a new bath in what was the sitting area outside the rear bedroom. A door from the hallway opens to the new bedroom/bathroom suite – perfect for guests or an au pair. This bathroom is also in keeping with the crisp black and white theme. The black geometric floor tile has white grout and the classic white subway tile is used again in the shower. The white marble console vanity has a trough-style sink with two faucets. The gold used for the mirror and light fixtures add a touch of shine.

This residential retreat on the Deschutes River near Maupin, Oregon is uniquely designed around a large central deck overlooking the river. Used for relaxation and entertainment, the deck is partially covered to function as an outdoor room. A large barn door can close off the deck for additional privacy, protection from the westerly winds and security. The deck space also separates the master suite from the great room for an enhanced sense of privacy and intimacy.
By keeping square footage at a minimum and construction straight forward, the simple, cost-effective design met the client's tight budget constraints without compromising features. The shed roof design increases the sense of height of the interior space on the upper level, opening up dramatic easterly views toward the river and hills beyond. The great room combines the kitchen, dining and living room into an open, flexible floor plan. Two guest rooms, a guest bathroom, utility room, mud room and garage efficiently occupy the lower level of the structure.
Located in the high-desert east of the Cascade Mountains, an area prone to range fires, this home is extremely fire-resistant. Features include a fireproof metal roof, concrete pavers instead of wood on the deck and fiber cement siding along the lower level.

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.

This kitchen facelift was inspired by a family of 7 who needed a fresh feel and better organization in the most popular room in the house. We were invited to select the finishes, plumbing fixtures, decorative hood and design a new bank of cabinets with rollout shelves to compliment the existing kitchen cabinets. The existing stained cabinets were painted white in contrast to the beautiful new natural stone counters. The result was bright and fresh. A marble tile backsplash added classic sophistication and the hood added a more capable ventilation system and a beautiful decorative element. Little details such as the touchless faucet and single basin sink which is large enough to wash platters and baking dishes increased the overall kitchen efficiency. The end result is a classic modern kitchen that is well loved by its family!
Designed by: Jennifer Gardner Design
Photographed by: Marcela Winspear

Bathroom remodeling is a significant home improvement project that blends functionality, aesthetics, and value. At a high level, it involves updating elements such as fixtures, flooring, lighting, cabinetry, and plumbing to create a more efficient and visually appealing space. Modern remodeling also emphasizes energy and water efficiency, incorporating low-flow toilets, LED lighting, and eco-friendly materials. The planning stage is critical, involving layout decisions, selection of durable finishes, and ensuring compliance with local building codes to ensure both safety and longevity.
The outcomes of a well-executed bathroom remodel go beyond surface-level improvements. A redesigned bathroom can greatly enhance daily convenience and comfort, whether through better storage solutions, improved lighting, or more accessible features such as walk-in showers or grab bars for aging-in-place needs. These changes can dramatically improve quality of life, especially in homes with outdated or poorly designed bathrooms. Functionality and thoughtful design can make even small bathrooms feel spacious and more enjoyable to use.
Moreover, bathroom remodeling holds significant value from a financial perspective. A modern, attractive bathroom can increase a home’s resale value and appeal to potential buyers, often offering a high return on investment compared to other renovation projects. Real estate professionals consistently highlight updated bathrooms as key selling points. Ultimately, a bathroom remodel isn’t just an aesthetic upgrade—it’s an investment in comfort, safety, efficiency, and property value.

Modern Electric Fireplace Media Console Novara by Dimplex. The Novara elegantly blends contemporary styling with impressive functionality as it houses the all new, dazzling Multi-Fire XD Electric Firebox including ComfortSaver heating system and gWave gesture recognition technology. Designed to support a flat panel TV up to 60”, the Novara boasts a striking black or white finish with fixed minimalist smoked glass shelves.
Features:
Available with different 25" fireboxes: ReaLogs or Acrylic Ice
Multi-Fire XD™ Flame Effect - vivid flames that are brighter and more lifelike
Choose from a variety of brilliant color themes or cycle through a range of colors using the custom mode, freezing on the hue of your choice
Accent the flames with custom base colors from warm red to gas blue
Safe ceramic heat, plus 11% energy savings, warms up to 1,000 sq. ft.
Electronic thermostat maintains room temperature within 1°F for perfect comfort and increased energy efficiency
On-screen display shows temperature and feature settings at a glance
Multi-function Remote (on/off; adjust temperature, colors of base and flame, brightness; sleep mode)
Operates with flame only or flame and heat
No emissions, 100% efficient and economical to operate
Dimensions:
TV Console Fireplace: W64" x D18" x H23.3"

Without energy-efficient window treatments, as much as 50% of a home's heating and cooling energy can be lost through its windows. All Hunter Douglas window fashions provide window insulation, offering your home increased protection against heat loss during the winter, as well as minimizing the sun's heat or "solar heat" during the summer.
Solar Heat Control
The warmth provided by the sun, its solar energy, may be desirable during the winter to help heat your home, yet it can make a room overly hot and uncomfortable while driving up air conditioning costs in the summer. Many Hunter Douglas products are designed to reduce the amount of solar heat that passes through the window, which is known as the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The lower the SHGC, the more protected your home is from the sun's heat. To enjoy the sun's warmth when desired, simply raise or open the window fashion and invite it in.

Modern Electric Fireplace TV Stand Joseph by Dimplex. If change is good then the all new Multi-Fire XD Electric Firebox offers something truly incredible. The sleek full view design allows an unencumbered view of the stunning Realogs or Acrylic Ice, the second generation of our patented inner glow technology. The dazzling Multi-Fire XD can accurately reproduce a natural wood-burning fire, gas fireplace or a range of ambient light themes that range from moody and hypnotic, to pulsing and vibrant. Combined with a high-efficiency heating system and intuitive multi-function control options, this new design is the perfect look and feel for any space. Media console features plenty of open storage which is ideal for electronics and includes cord management.
Features:
Available with different 33" fireboxes: ReaLogs or Acrylic Ice
Multi-Fire XD™ Flame Effect - vivid flames that are brighter and more lifelike
Choose from a variety of brilliant color themes or cycle through a range of colors using the custom mode, freezing on the hue of your choice
Accent the flames with custom base colors from warm red to gas blue
Safe ceramic heat, plus 11% energy savings, warms up to 1,000 sq. ft.
Electronic thermostat maintains room temperature within 1°F for perfect comfort and increased energy efficiency
On-screen display shows temperature and feature settings at a glance
Multi-function Remote (on/off; adjust temperature, colors of base and flame, brightness; sleep mode)
Operates with flame only or flame and heat
No emissions, 100% efficient and economical to operate
Dimensions:
TV Console Fireplace: W68" x D18" x H41"

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.

What makes this project stand out and represent high value for the home owner is the overall functionality of the new kitchen, much of which didn't exist in the old space. The new space now has a larger and far more efficient work triangle with upgraded appliances that allow for easier and faster meal preparation and clean-up. The increase in footprint allowed for the addition of a large island with casual seating, storage and sink. Corner walk-in pantry added for storage. Custom cabinets on outside wall extend to the ceiling for added storage. Also includes feature lighting for display. Step down mudroom has expansive storage and large utility sink for gardening hobby. Cabinets for bar area designed to finish lower so owner could incorporate plants and allow natural lighting from mudroom windows. Bar space includes additional storage with tambler doors, wine fridge and bar fridge.

Bay Windows Roller Shades, Solar Shades Revers Roller ,Without energy-efficient window treatments, as much as 50% of a home's heating and cooling energy can be lost through its windows. All Hunter Douglas window fashions provide window insulation, offering your home increased protection against heat loss during the winter, as well as minimizing the sun's heat or "solar heat" during the summer.
Solar Heat Control
The warmth provided by the sun, its solar energy, may be desirable during the winter to help heat your home, yet it can make a room overly hot and uncomfortable while driving up air conditioning costs in the summer. Many Hunter Douglas products are designed to reduce the amount of solar heat that passes through the window, which is known as the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The lower the SHGC, the more protected your home is from the sun's heat. To enjoy the sun's warmth when desired, simply raise or open the window fashion and invite it in.

Island, Countertops: Torquay™ from Cambria's Marble Collection™
Wall: Torquay™ from Cambria's Marble Collection™
Design Credit: http://www.houzz.com/pro/veertamotiani

A love for hosting gatherings motivated these homeowners to open up and rework their dimly lit kitchen. The kitchen was land-locked by surrounding rooms.
An island floor plan replaced the preexisting peninsula which allowed the casual seating to move out of the way of the traffic pattern. Cabinets custom painted Sherwin Williams Relaxed Khaki were double stacked floor to ceiling to increase storage. Glass-door top cabinets with LED lighting provided display space for decorative items. Cabinetry pantry space efficiently replaced the traditional closet pantry without sacrificing storage. Colonial Crème granite was used for the counters highlighted by a backsplash of ivory 3x6 travertine in a 45-degree herringbone pattern. LED under cabinet lights and an oversized lantern-style chandelier over the island added extra light and ambiance.
205 Photography

Relocating to Portland, Oregon from California, this young family immediately hired Amy to redesign their newly purchased home to better fit their needs. The project included updating the kitchen, hall bath, and adding an en suite to their master bedroom. Removing a wall between the kitchen and dining allowed for additional counter space and storage along with improved traffic flow and increased natural light to the heart of the home. This galley style kitchen is focused on efficiency and functionality through custom cabinets with a pantry boasting drawer storage topped with quartz slab for durability, pull-out storage accessories throughout, deep drawers, and a quartz topped coffee bar/ buffet facing the dining area. The master bath and hall bath were born out of a single bath and a closet. While modest in size, the bathrooms are filled with functionality and colorful design elements. Durable hex shaped porcelain tiles compliment the blue vanities topped with white quartz countertops. The shower and tub are both tiled in handmade ceramic tiles, bringing much needed texture and movement of light to the space. The hall bath is outfitted with a toe-kick pull-out step for the family’s youngest member!
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