Search results for "Increased efficiency" in Home Design Ideas

These South Shore homeowners desired a fresh look for their kitchen that was efficient and functional with a design worthy of showing off to family and friends. They also wished for more natural light, increased floor area and better countertop work space allowing for ease of preparation and cooking. The Renovisions team began the remodel by installing a larger (5’) window over the sink area which overlooks the beautiful backyard. Additional countertop workspace was achieved by utilizing the corner and installing a GE induction cooktop and stainless steel hood. This solution was spot on spectacular!
Renovisions discussed the importance of adding lighting fixtures and the homeowners agreed. Under cabinet lighting was installed under wall cabinets with switch as well as two pendants over the peninsula and one pendant over the sink. It also made good design sense to add additional recessed ceiling fixtures with LED lights and trims that blend well with the ceiling.
The project came together beautifully and boasts gorgeous shaker styled cherry cabinetry with glass mullian doors. The separate desk area serves as a much needed office/organizational area for keys, mail and electronic charging.
A lovely backsplash of Tuscan-clay-look porcelain tile in 4”x8” brick pattern and diagonal tile with decorative metal-look accent tiles serves an eye-catching design detail. We created interest without being overdone.
A large rectangular under-mounted ‘chef’ sink in stainless steel finish was the way to go here to accommodate larger pots and pans and platters. The creamy color marble like durable yet beautiful quartz countertops created a soft tone for the kitchens overall aesthetic look. Simple, pretty details give the cherry cabinets understated elegance and the mix of textures makes the room feel welcoming.
Our client can’t wait to start preparing her favorite recipes for her family.

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!

These South Shore homeowners desired a fresh look for their kitchen that was efficient and functional with a design worthy of showing off to family and friends. They also wished for more natural light, increased floor area and better countertop work space allowing for ease of preparation and cooking. The Renovisions team began the remodel by installing a larger (5’) window over the sink area which overlooks the beautiful backyard. Additional countertop workspace was achieved by utilizing the corner and installing a GE induction cooktop and stainless steel hood. This solution was spot on spectacular!
Renovisions discussed the importance of adding lighting fixtures and the homeowners agreed. Under cabinet lighting was installed under wall cabinets with switch as well as two pendants over the peninsula and one pendant over the sink. It also made good design sense to add additional recessed ceiling fixtures with LED lights and trims that blend well with the ceiling.
The project came together beautifully and boasts gorgeous shaker styled cherry cabinetry with glass mullian doors. The separate desk area serves as a much needed office/organizational area for keys, mail and electronic charging.
A lovely backsplash of Tuscan-clay-look porcelain tile in 4”x8” brick pattern and diagonal tile with decorative metal-look accent tiles serves an eye-catching design detail. We created interest without being overdone.
A large rectangular under-mounted ‘chef’ sink in stainless steel finish was the way to go here to accommodate larger pots and pans and platters. The creamy color marble like durable yet beautiful quartz countertops created a soft tone for the kitchens overall aesthetic look. Simple, pretty details give the cherry cabinets understated elegance and the mix of textures makes the room feel welcoming.
Our client can’t wait to start preparing her favorite recipes for her family.
Find the right local pro for your project

The Libra Series gas-burning, direct-vent fireplace offers three multi-view configurations that serve as a primary focal point for multiple rooms. With an exceptional glass viewing area and the intense flame presentation of a powerful pan burner, the Libra Multi-View Series creates a beautiful, natural-looking fire that enhances the comfort and elegance of several rooms.
Features
Listed to ANSI Z21.88 Gas Fireplace Heater
Available in 40” clean-faced corner, peninsula & see through models
Combo top/rear flue configuration
Top flue configuration
Millivolt or energy saving electronic ignition
Pre-wired for wall switch
Outstanding heating efficiency for increased comfort and lower operating costs
Detailed ceramic fiber “aged oak” log set with 1/2" heavy-duty grate
Black painted interior (optional ceramic fiber liner available)
Durable textured powder coat finish
Optional blower and remote control available for all models
Uses IHP SV 4-1/2" x 7-1/2" Direct Vent Pipe
Limited Lifetime Warranty
This fireplace meets all 2015 ANSI barrier requirements.

This magnificent project includes: a new front portico; a single car garage addition with entry to a combination mudroom/laundry with storage; a rear addition extending the family room and open concept kitchen as well as adding a guest bedroom; a second storey master suite over the garage beside an inviting, naturally lit reading area; and a renovated bathroom.
The covered front portico with sloped ceiling welcomes visitors to this striking home whose overall design increases functionality, takes advantage of exterior views, integrates indoor/outdoor living and has exceeded customer expectations. The extended open concept family room / kitchen with eating area & pantry has ample glazing. The formal dining room with a built-in serving area, features French pocket doors. A guest bedroom was included in the addition for visiting family members. Existing hardwood floors were refinished to match the new oak hardwood installed in the main floor addition and master suite.
The large master suite with double doors & integrated window seat is complete with a “to die for” organized walk in closet and spectacular 3 pc. ensuite. A large round window compliments an open reading area at the top of the stairs and allows afternoon natural light to wash down the main staircase. The bathroom renovations included 2 sinks, a new tub, toilet and large transom window allowing the morning sun to fill the space with natural light.
FEATURES:
*Sloped ceiling and ample amount of windows in master bedroom
*Custom tiled shower and dark finished cabinets in ensuite
*Low – e , argon, warm edge spacers, PVC windows
*Radiant in-floor heating in guest bedroom and mudroom/laundry area
*New high efficiency furnace and air conditioning
* HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator)
We’d like to recognize our trade partner who worked on this project:
Catherine Leibe worked hand in hand with Lagois on the kitchen and bathroom design as well as finish selections. E-mail: cleibe@sympatico.ca

Dinette Fixture: Artcraft Chrome Blossom 25 LED lights, 24" high, 25.5" wide chrome and glass
Island Pendants: MODERN CRYSTAL FLOWERS LED PENDANT SKU PE17157
Backsplash Tile: AKDO Ethered Nova Carrara Bella (H) with Stainless Steel
Countertops: Cambria Brittanica
The homeowners wanted to transform their inefficient kitchen into a “WOW” kitchen that they were proud to entertain in. They wanted a new contemporary look with classic finishes that complimented the other newly renovated spaces in their home.
In the remodeled kitchen, the cooktop is positioned closer to the sink to provide an efficient work triangle. The decorative chimney hood and marble and stainless inset backsplash create a stunning focal point. GE Monogram appliances provide this avid cook with a chef style kitchen. Replacing their pantry closet area with new pantry cabinets with rollout shelves allow for increased functionality. The crisp, clean look of the custom white Medallion cabinets pop against the dark Pewter Maple hardwood floors. Chosen for its timeless appearance, the organic design on the countertops contrasts the geometric marble backsplash tile, and the crystal dinette and pendant lights add sparkle and sophistication to the room. This kitchen is now a contemporary, family-friendly, entertainment space.
Design Tech Remodeling, established in 1997, is a family-owned award-winning design/build firm specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, master suites, and lower levels.

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!

Every design decision for this Caribbean beach residence was guided by the desire to maximize the views of the property’s breathtaking natural surroundings.
To connect the spaces and reveal the views from every vantage point, the team reconfigured the layout to create vistas, and installed window film to reduce solar heat gain. These modifications increased efficiencies, reused 90% of the interior envelope and did not impact the exterior structure of the building. In addition to providing incredible views, opening up the plan allows cross ventilation, maximizing the use of ocean breezes to cool the interior. The result is an effortless flow and maximization of space.
Throughout the interior, dark materials express the concept of respite in the shade, and emphasize the sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. Millwork crafted by local artisans from local materials establishes hierarchy – providing a clear understanding of the layout – and filters light to create privacy and drama. Screens help define the spaces and create suspense.
Varying screen opacities serve specific functions: nearly opaque screens build suspense, translucent screens provide privacy, and reflective screens – as seen in the kitchen ceiling – create mystery in the core where light and views
are challenged. Referencing the seaside location, the baseboards create a sense of being in a deep shallow. The 16” tall baseboards create a pool effect, engaging the walls with Cradle to Cradle certified Mosa tile flooring. The irregular height also conceals power and data cabling. The resulting space is a contemporary oasis that offers a high-level of comfort and functionality.
Anne Rausch Photography

These South Shore homeowners desired a fresh look for their kitchen that was efficient and functional with a design worthy of showing off to family and friends. They also wished for more natural light, increased floor area and better countertop work space allowing for ease of preparation and cooking. The Renovisions team began the remodel by installing a larger (5’) window over the sink area which overlooks the beautiful backyard. Additional countertop workspace was achieved by utilizing the corner and installing a GE induction cooktop and stainless steel hood. This solution was spot on spectacular!
Renovisions discussed the importance of adding lighting fixtures and the homeowners agreed. Under cabinet lighting was installed under wall cabinets with switch as well as two pendants over the peninsula and one pendant over the sink. It also made good design sense to add additional recessed ceiling fixtures with LED lights and trims that blend well with the ceiling.
The project came together beautifully and boasts gorgeous shaker styled cherry cabinetry with glass mullian doors. The separate desk area serves as a much needed office/organizational area for keys, mail and electronic charging.
A lovely backsplash of Tuscan-clay-look porcelain tile in 4”x8” brick pattern and diagonal tile with decorative metal-look accent tiles serves an eye-catching design detail. We created interest without being overdone.
A large rectangular under-mounted ‘chef’ sink in stainless steel finish was the way to go here to accommodate larger pots and pans and platters. The creamy color marble like durable yet beautiful quartz countertops created a soft tone for the kitchens overall aesthetic look. Simple, pretty details give the cherry cabinets understated elegance and the mix of textures makes the room feel welcoming.
Our client can’t wait to start preparing her favorite recipes for her family.

Rollscreens paired with roll down storm shutters on a beach front application.
Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space.
Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings.
Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes.
Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command.
Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models.
Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices.
Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor.
Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated.
If you would like more information about Retractable Screens or Rolling Shutters, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

Brunswick Parlour transforms a Victorian cottage into a hard-working, personalised home for a family of four.
Our clients loved the character of their Brunswick terrace home, but not its inefficient floor plan and poor year-round thermal control. They didn't need more space, they just needed their space to work harder.
The front bedrooms remain largely untouched, retaining their Victorian features and only introducing new cabinetry. Meanwhile, the main bedroom’s previously pokey en suite and wardrobe have been expanded, adorned with custom cabinetry and illuminated via a generous skylight.
At the rear of the house, we reimagined the floor plan to establish shared spaces suited to the family’s lifestyle. Flanked by the dining and living rooms, the kitchen has been reoriented into a more efficient layout and features custom cabinetry that uses every available inch. In the dining room, the Swiss Army Knife of utility cabinets unfolds to reveal a laundry, more custom cabinetry, and a craft station with a retractable desk. Beautiful materiality throughout infuses the home with warmth and personality, featuring Blackbutt timber flooring and cabinetry, and selective pops of green and pink tones.
The house now works hard in a thermal sense too. Insulation and glazing were updated to best practice standard, and we’ve introduced several temperature control tools. Hydronic heating installed throughout the house is complemented by an evaporative cooling system and operable skylight.
The result is a lush, tactile home that increases the effectiveness of every existing inch to enhance daily life for our clients, proving that good design doesn’t need to add space to add value.

The Jack + Mare worked with the homeowners of this cool mid-century inspired kitchen from schematic design all the way through construction.
The existing kitchen was demolished all the way to studs, subfloor and ceiling joists and completely rebuilt with custom cabinets, solid oak flooring, task and ambient lighting, new electrical/plumbing, counter-to-ceiling wall tile, new beam (took down wall between living/kitchen), new window and colorful barn door.
The final design maximized storage, increased counter space, improved traffic flow, connected kitchen to adjacent living room (by removing existing wall), and improved the social aspect of the kitchen.
The kitchen is now efficient, beautiful, full of light and a happy place to call home!
Features: custom walnut cabinets (designed by The J+M), tile backsplash, new lighting plan (LED can lights, under-cabinet LED lights, Cedar+Moss pendants with LED bulbs), quartz countertops, new Marvin window with new trim, pantry with pull out shelves, glass upper cabinet (with puck LED) to feature antique glass-ware, island with microwave under counter, island seating.
photo credit: Jason Quigley

When Marcus A. of Golden, IL needed a solar panel system for his home, he knew he wanted the best quality and the most economical price. After research he chose Green Home Systems for their craftsmanship, performance and durability guarantees, financing options, and on time delivery promise.
The team at Green Home Systems began with an inspection of the roof to determine the size and type of solar panel system that would work best for Marcus' home. We installed a 5.04 kW grid tie-in system with Panasonic solar panels and a SolarEdge inverter. The flat roof was perfect for this type of installation which made the process easier and faster than expected.
Once the equipment was installed, we tested it thoroughly to ensure it was working properly and efficiently. We were able to complete the project within just one month which exceeded Marcus' expectations. He was very pleased with our craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout the entire process.
Now that everything is up and running, Marcus is already seeing the benefits of his new solar panel system. He's locked in low energy costs and increased his home value at the same time! Plus he's doing his part for the environment by moving towards clean sustainable energy sources.
At Green Home Systems, we are dedicated to providing our customers with top quality service from start to finish. Our goal is to ensure that every customer has an easy and stress-free experience with their solar project. We are proud to have been chosen by Marcus as his solar provider and look forward to helping more customers in Golden, IL get started with renewable energy solutions!

Custom Living Room Addition in Fairlawn, Ohio
This Fairlawn home addition transformed an outdated rear entrance and underutilized exterior space into a bright, spacious living room designed for everyday comfort. The project began with a new foundation and structural framing before progressing through insulation, roofing, siding, windows, electrical work, and interior finishes.
The completed addition features large energy-efficient windows on multiple walls, allowing natural light to fill the space throughout the day. The open layout creates a welcoming family room that connects seamlessly with the existing home while providing additional square footage for relaxing, entertaining, and spending time with family.
From the exterior, the addition was carefully designed to match the home's existing siding, trim, and rooflines, creating a cohesive appearance that looks as though it was always part of the original structure. The finished space delivers improved functionality, increased home value, and a more comfortable living environment without the need to move.
Homeowners often ask, "Is a home addition worth it?" For families who love their neighborhood but need more living space, a custom addition can be one of the best investments, adding both usable square footage and long-term property value.

One of the biggest challenges in this kitchen was a lack of storage and functionality. When we first met with our clients, kitchen items had overflowed into the dining room, living room, breakfast room, and nearly every available wall space surrounding the kitchen. Countertops were cluttered because there simply wasn't enough room for everyday essentials.
The homeowners wanted a kitchen that could efficiently store their appliances, serving pieces, dishware, pantry items, and food storage containers while keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
To achieve their goals, we transformed the galley kitchen with custom frameless cabinetry extending to the ceiling, dramatically increasing storage capacity and maximizing every inch of available space. We also added an oversized pantry to house small appliances and other larger household items.
Thoughtful storage solutions were incorporated throughout the kitchen, including pull-out trash and recycling bins, a knife drawer insert, spice pull-down organizer, tray divider pull-out, cutlery organizer, utensil pull-out, and oversized drawer pull-outs. Every cabinet now serves a purpose, creating a more organized and functional space while freeing up valuable countertop space.
To complete the design, the homeowners selected beautiful brushed nickel hardware, elegant Taj Mahal quartz countertops, and a stunning farmhouse sink. The result is a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also designed to support the way they live every day.

Custom Living Room Addition in Fairlawn, Ohio
This Fairlawn home addition transformed an outdated rear entrance and underutilized exterior space into a bright, spacious living room designed for everyday comfort. The project began with a new foundation and structural framing before progressing through insulation, roofing, siding, windows, electrical work, and interior finishes.
The completed addition features large energy-efficient windows on multiple walls, allowing natural light to fill the space throughout the day. The open layout creates a welcoming family room that connects seamlessly with the existing home while providing additional square footage for relaxing, entertaining, and spending time with family.
From the exterior, the addition was carefully designed to match the home's existing siding, trim, and rooflines, creating a cohesive appearance that looks as though it was always part of the original structure. The finished space delivers improved functionality, increased home value, and a more comfortable living environment without the need to move.
Homeowners often ask, "Is a home addition worth it?" For families who love their neighborhood but need more living space, a custom addition can be one of the best investments, adding both usable square footage and long-term property value.

This custom closet system was installed as part of a full condominium renovation in the Capilano building at Woodcroft, 2024 Fullerton Ave., North Vancouver. The goal was to transform an outdated closet into a highly organized storage solution while maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic consistent with the rest of the renovation.
The closet features a custom-built organizer system with integrated drawers, shelving, and double hanging sections designed to maximize storage efficiency within the existing footprint. The cabinetry was carefully configured to provide dedicated areas for folded clothing, hanging garments, and concealed drawer storage.
The mirrored sliding closet doors reflect the interior storage system, which may appear as additional cabinetry in the photo. In reality, the mirrored panels are reflecting the custom closet structure, helping visually expand the space while increasing natural light within the room.
This storage upgrade was integrated with the broader renovation, which included kitchen remodeling with custom cabinetry, bathroom renovation, open-concept layout modifications, flooring replacement, and custom millwork installations throughout the condo. As with most renovation projects in the Woodcroft complex, the work required close coordination with strata management and building requirements to complete the permitted renovation smoothly.

One of the biggest challenges in this kitchen was a lack of storage and functionality. When we first met with our clients, kitchen items had overflowed into the dining room, living room, breakfast room, and nearly every available wall space surrounding the kitchen. Countertops were cluttered because there simply wasn't enough room for everyday essentials.
The homeowners wanted a kitchen that could efficiently store their appliances, serving pieces, dishware, pantry items, and food storage containers while keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
To achieve their goals, we transformed the galley kitchen with custom frameless cabinetry extending to the ceiling, dramatically increasing storage capacity and maximizing every inch of available space. We also added an oversized pantry to house small appliances and other larger household items.
Thoughtful storage solutions were incorporated throughout the kitchen, including pull-out trash and recycling bins, a knife drawer insert, spice pull-down organizer, tray divider pull-out, cutlery organizer, utensil pull-out, and oversized drawer pull-outs. Every cabinet now serves a purpose, creating a more organized and functional space while freeing up valuable countertop space.
To complete the design, the homeowners selected beautiful brushed nickel hardware, elegant Taj Mahal quartz countertops, and a stunning farmhouse sink. The result is a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also designed to support the way they live every day.

One of the biggest challenges in this kitchen was a lack of storage and functionality. When we first met with our clients, kitchen items had overflowed into the dining room, living room, breakfast room, and nearly every available wall space surrounding the kitchen. Countertops were cluttered because there simply wasn't enough room for everyday essentials.
The homeowners wanted a kitchen that could efficiently store their appliances, serving pieces, dishware, pantry items, and food storage containers while keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
To achieve their goals, we transformed the galley kitchen with custom frameless cabinetry extending to the ceiling, dramatically increasing storage capacity and maximizing every inch of available space. We also added an oversized pantry to house small appliances and other larger household items.
Thoughtful storage solutions were incorporated throughout the kitchen, including pull-out trash and recycling bins, a knife drawer insert, spice pull-down organizer, tray divider pull-out, cutlery organizer, utensil pull-out, and oversized drawer pull-outs. Every cabinet now serves a purpose, creating a more organized and functional space while freeing up valuable countertop space.
To complete the design, the homeowners selected beautiful brushed nickel hardware, elegant Taj Mahal quartz countertops, and a stunning farmhouse sink. The result is a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also designed to support the way they live every day.
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