Search results for "Increasingly integral" in Home Design Ideas

The homeowners had just purchased this home in El Segundo and they had remodeled the kitchen and one of the bathrooms on their own. However, they had more work to do. They felt that the rest of the project was too big and complex to tackle on their own and so they retained us to take over where they left off. The main focus of the project was to create a master suite and take advantage of the rather large backyard as an extension of their home. They were looking to create a more fluid indoor outdoor space.
When adding the new master suite leaving the ceilings vaulted along with French doors give the space a feeling of openness. The window seat was originally designed as an architectural feature for the exterior but turned out to be a benefit to the interior! They wanted a spa feel for their master bathroom utilizing organic finishes. Since the plan is that this will be their forever home a curbless shower was an important feature to them. The glass barn door on the shower makes the space feel larger and allows for the travertine shower tile to show through. Floating shelves and vanity allow the space to feel larger while the natural tones of the porcelain tile floor are calming. The his and hers vessel sinks make the space functional for two people to use it at once. The walk-in closet is open while the master bathroom has a white pocket door for privacy.
Since a new master suite was added to the home we converted the existing master bedroom into a family room. Adding French Doors to the family room opened up the floorplan to the outdoors while increasing the amount of natural light in this room. The closet that was previously in the bedroom was converted to built in cabinetry and floating shelves in the family room. The French doors in the master suite and family room now both open to the same deck space.
The homes new open floor plan called for a kitchen island to bring the kitchen and dining / great room together. The island is a 3” countertop vs the standard inch and a half. This design feature gives the island a chunky look. It was important that the island look like it was always a part of the kitchen. Lastly, we added a skylight in the corner of the kitchen as it felt dark once we closed off the side door that was there previously.
Repurposing rooms and opening the floor plan led to creating a laundry closet out of an old coat closet (and borrowing a small space from the new family room).
The floors become an integral part of tying together an open floor plan like this. The home still had original oak floors and the homeowners wanted to maintain that character. We laced in new planks and refinished it all to bring the project together.
To add curb appeal we removed the carport which was blocking a lot of natural light from the outside of the house. We also re-stuccoed the home and added exterior trim.

This is another guest room in the house. In keeping with the theme of 'all technology hidden' we hid this 46" Samsung LED TV behind a Seura Mirror TV. When off totally invisible!
With this Spanish Transitional Style residence, we were once again tasked with hiding ALL technology. As you can see from the photos, between Paintings covering TV's, multiple automated lifts from cabinets, and a large mirror making the TV disappear, when not in use, the technology is simply not present. All the system is controlled Via iPhone and iPad minimizing the need to unsightly touch panels throughout as well except for the crucial thoroughfares. The system used in this residence was a fully integrated Savant Automation Platform with Lutron Homeworks Lighting Control.

This completed project at Zurich, ON showcases a refined backyard transformation centered around a custom gazebo-style covered structure. Built with rich, dark-stained timber and a clean gable roofline, it provides a shaded, open-air retreat that enhances both comfort and visual appeal.
Beneath the structure, a cozy outdoor lounge is anchored by a natural stone fireplace with a built-in TV—creating a functional, all-season gathering space. The surrounding interlocking pavers and modern pool with clean, elevated edges complete the polished, resort-style design.
An adjacent outdoor kitchen features a built-in stainless steel grill, integrated storage, and a sleek countertop—ideal for effortless entertaining.
Crafted with durable materials and expert workmanship, this space blends beauty with long-term performance.
Homeowner Benefits:
Covered outdoor living area for shade and comfort
Perfect for entertaining and relaxing year-round
Low-maintenance, weather-resistant materials
Increased property value with a cohesive design
A stylish and functional outdoor upgrade designed for everyday enjoyment.
Find the right local pro for your project

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

This Santa Barbara Bungalow, located in an historical area of Santa Barbara, had tons of charm, but the kitchen was small, cramped and lacked modern day function and storage.
The kitchen you see today was achieved in 2 phases, by 2 different homeowners. It’s bright and sunny, with ample storage, generous amounts of countertop space and an Island perfect for meal prep. This is a classic kitchen, with white inset Shaker style doors, which continues to be the hottest look on the market.
Phase 1 improved the small kitchen by eliminating a side door and taking out a built-in banquette, thus increasing kitchen size. A small island was added and a washer & dryer area was included. Perfect for a young family.
Phase 2 enlarged the kitchen even more. A back bedroom was opened up to the kitchen, providing space for the office and bookcase areas. The laundry was moved to another part of the house, thus allowing for more cabinetry and countertop space. Two pantries were added, along with open shelving, plus alcoves for a microwave and a kitchen TV. A maple free standing Island is a classic contrast to the white cabinetry. By specifying maple countertops for the office area, it ties the kitchen and office areas together.
Hahka Kitchens handled both phases of the kitchen remodel, and we were able to order matching cabinets and obtain the same countertop material. The result is that the kitchen is completely integrated with no evidence that this amazing kitchen was done in 2 stages, 8 years apart. The new homeowner did replace knobs and pulls from phase 1, and more ordered for the new cabinets, thus putting her mark on the kitchen. And the new homeowner found the sturdy and functional Island, which was a perfect complement to the white shaker cabinets.
One last note about the office area, which is flooded with light from patio doors and large windows. The desk, with white shaker doors that match the kitchen, has loads of functionality. 2 large desk drawers, with hanging file folders, a pull-out trash can, small desk drawers and open shelving meet the needs of a home office. The built-in bookcase, which was fitted into an existing recessed alcove, was expertly installed and provides both open display areas and hidden storage. The “V groove doors” complement the Shaker doors, adding a furniture charm to the office.
This expanded kitchen is truly the “heart of this historic home”.

This project integrated a more modern aesthetic while maintaining the identity of a traditional colonial. It maximizes storage and organizational solutions, including hidden appliances inside cabinets, specific storage solutions for things like onions and potatoes, and increased storage opportunities for books and display items in the oversize island. The unique blend of modern and traditional elements is a highlight of this project; there are high gloss white modern slab cabinets mixed with accent-painted shaker cabinets.
photos by Jay Groccia of OnSite Studios

Woodinville WA Phased Farmhouse Transformation Project
Project Overview
In Woodinville, WA, our team at M3Decks & Outdoor Living executed a multi-phase, three-year transformation of a 1970s woody walk-up home, converting it into a stunning farmhouse-style retreat. This project, tailored to the client’s vision, showcases our expertise in custom deck construction, structural enhancements, and outdoor living solutions, with a focus on quality and timeless design.
Project Phases
Phase 1: Deck and Entry Deck (Year 1)
Scope: Designed and constructed a composite deck using premium TimberTech materials, paired with a welcoming entry deck to enhance curb appeal. The decks were built with Fortress Steel Framing for durability, aligning with the farmhouse aesthetic through clean lines and rustic charm.
Features: Incorporated a multi-level layout to maximize usable space, with decorative railings and a drink rail cap for functionality and style.
Outcome: The new decks provided a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, transforming the home’s exterior into a functional and inviting space.
Phase 2: Roof Extension and DrySpace Installation (Year 2)
Scope: Extended the roof over the second-story deck and entryway to create a covered outdoor living area. Installed TimberTech DrySpace under the deck to create a dry, usable space below, ideal for a future hot tub.
Design Elements: The roof extension featured farmhouse-inspired gabled roofing with exposed beams, complementing the home’s updated aesthetic. The DrySpace system ensured weather protection for the under-deck area.
Outcome: The covered deck became a year-round outdoor oasis, while the DrySpace addition increased the home’s functional space, adding value and versatility.
Phase 3: Hardscaping (Planned for Year 3)
Scope: Scheduled to return for the final phase, which will focus on hardscaping to complete the outdoor transformation. Plans include a stamped concrete patio, planter boxes with Pacific Northwest-native plants, and a fire pit to enhance the farmhouse vibe.
Goals: Create a cohesive outdoor environment that integrates with the existing deck and roof structures, prioritizing biophilic design principles for a natural, inviting space.
Anticipated Outcome: The hardscaping will finalize the property’s evolution into a luxurious, functional outdoor retreat, perfect for entertaining and relaxation.
Key Features
Farmhouse Aesthetic: Rustic yet modern design with TimberTech composite decking, exposed beam roofing, and farmhouse-inspired detailing.
TimberTech DrySpace: Innovative under-deck system to ensure a dry, usable space for future additions like a hot tub.
Durable Materials: Fortress Steel Framing and TimberTech products for low-maintenance, long-lasting results.
Phased Approach: Flexible, client-focused construction timeline to accommodate budget and evolving needs.
Outcome
This phased project transformed a dated 1970s walk-up into a modern farmhouse masterpiece, significantly enhancing the home’s aesthetic and functional value. The deck and roof extensions have already elevated the client’s outdoor living experience, and the upcoming hardscaping phase will complete the vision of a cohesive, luxurious backyard retreat. The project exemplifies our commitment to quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction.
Location
Woodinville, WA
Project Type
Residential Phased Design-Build

The owners of this colonial-style house wanted to renovate their home to increase space and improve flow. We built a two-story addition that included a dining room and bar on the first floor (off of the family room) and a new master bathroom (creating a master suite).
RUDLOFF Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016 and 2017. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017 and 2018, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together.
Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early on in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with RUDLOFF CUSTOM BUILDERS from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept, envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission; CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY.
Photo Credit: JMB Photoworks

Project Title: Modern Retreat - Basement Transformation
Location: Hillsborough, NH
Project Overview:
Our recent basement transformation in Hillsborough showcases our expertise in creating multifunctional spaces that cater to the modern family’s needs. This extensive renovation turned an underused basement into a vibrant living area, complete with a home theater, a wet bar, and a fully equipped workout room. We focused on maximizing the space’s potential, implementing moisture-resistant materials and modern insulation techniques to ensure comfort and durability. Strategic lighting and contemporary decor choices brightened the previously dark space, making it an inviting area for entertainment and relaxation.
Highlights:
Installation of soundproofing and eco-friendly insulation for enhanced privacy and energy efficiency.
Custom-designed wet bar and entertainment center as central features.
Sleek, durable flooring choices tailored to high-traffic use and aesthetic appeal.
Smart home technology integration for lights, sound, and security.
This project not only significantly increased the usable living space of the home but also enhanced its overall value, proving that basements can be as luxurious and functional as any other part of a residence.

Woodinville WA Phased Farmhouse Transformation Project
Project Overview
In Woodinville, WA, our team at M3Decks & Outdoor Living executed a multi-phase, three-year transformation of a 1970s woody walk-up home, converting it into a stunning farmhouse-style retreat. This project, tailored to the client’s vision, showcases our expertise in custom deck construction, structural enhancements, and outdoor living solutions, with a focus on quality and timeless design.
Project Phases
Phase 1: Deck and Entry Deck (Year 1)
Scope: Designed and constructed a composite deck using premium TimberTech materials, paired with a welcoming entry deck to enhance curb appeal. The decks were built with Fortress Steel Framing for durability, aligning with the farmhouse aesthetic through clean lines and rustic charm.
Features: Incorporated a multi-level layout to maximize usable space, with decorative railings and a drink rail cap for functionality and style.
Outcome: The new decks provided a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, transforming the home’s exterior into a functional and inviting space.
Phase 2: Roof Extension and DrySpace Installation (Year 2)
Scope: Extended the roof over the second-story deck and entryway to create a covered outdoor living area. Installed TimberTech DrySpace under the deck to create a dry, usable space below, ideal for a future hot tub.
Design Elements: The roof extension featured farmhouse-inspired gabled roofing with exposed beams, complementing the home’s updated aesthetic. The DrySpace system ensured weather protection for the under-deck area.
Outcome: The covered deck became a year-round outdoor oasis, while the DrySpace addition increased the home’s functional space, adding value and versatility.
Phase 3: Hardscaping (Planned for Year 3)
Scope: Scheduled to return for the final phase, which will focus on hardscaping to complete the outdoor transformation. Plans include a stamped concrete patio, planter boxes with Pacific Northwest-native plants, and a fire pit to enhance the farmhouse vibe.
Goals: Create a cohesive outdoor environment that integrates with the existing deck and roof structures, prioritizing biophilic design principles for a natural, inviting space.
Anticipated Outcome: The hardscaping will finalize the property’s evolution into a luxurious, functional outdoor retreat, perfect for entertaining and relaxation.
Key Features
Farmhouse Aesthetic: Rustic yet modern design with TimberTech composite decking, exposed beam roofing, and farmhouse-inspired detailing.
TimberTech DrySpace: Innovative under-deck system to ensure a dry, usable space for future additions like a hot tub.
Durable Materials: Fortress Steel Framing and TimberTech products for low-maintenance, long-lasting results.
Phased Approach: Flexible, client-focused construction timeline to accommodate budget and evolving needs.
Outcome
This phased project transformed a dated 1970s walk-up into a modern farmhouse masterpiece, significantly enhancing the home’s aesthetic and functional value. The deck and roof extensions have already elevated the client’s outdoor living experience, and the upcoming hardscaping phase will complete the vision of a cohesive, luxurious backyard retreat. The project exemplifies our commitment to quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction.
Location
Woodinville, WA
Project Type
Residential Phased Design-Build

? COMPLETE KITCHEN REMODEL | COLORADO SPRINGS
This Colorado Springs kitchen renovation transformed an outdated builder-grade kitchen into a modern, functional space designed around improved storage, durable finishes, and everyday living.
? PROJECT INCLUDED
✔️ Complete kitchen demolition
✔️ Removal of existing cabinets and countertops
✔️ Flooring removal and replacement
✔️ New two-tone kitchen cabinetry
✔️ White shaker-style upper cabinets
✔️ Contrasting gray lower cabinets
✔️ Full-height pantry storage
✔️ New countertop installation
✔️ Farmhouse-style sink
✔️ Updated plumbing connections
✔️ Custom herringbone backsplash
✔️ Luxury vinyl plank flooring
✔️ Cabinet hardware installation
✔️ Appliance integration
?️ CUSTOM CABINET & STORAGE UPGRADES
One of the biggest improvements was redesigning the kitchen with a more intentional cabinet layout.
White upper cabinets help keep the kitchen feeling bright and open, while contrasting gray lower cabinets add visual depth and create a modern two-tone design.
Full-height pantry cabinetry was incorporated near the refrigerator to increase storage while creating a more finished, built-in appearance.
? CUSTOM HERRINGBONE BACKSPLASH
The herringbone backsplash became one of the defining features of the completed kitchen.
Careful layout planning, laser alignment, consistent spacing, and detailed cuts around outlets and corners were essential to creating a clean, professional finished installation.
✨ THE RESULT
What started as a dated builder-grade kitchen was transformed into a brighter, more functional space featuring improved storage, modern finishes, durable flooring, and custom craftsmanship.
? WHY CHOOSE I'M THE MAN SERVICES?
Every remodeling project is personally managed from demolition through completion with a focus on quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and practical solutions designed around how homeowners actually use their homes.
If you need it done right, I'm The Man. ??

Integrated appliances and storage solutions were utilized throughout the kitchen to help organize the space and increase the functionality.
Mid-sized mountain style l-shaped light wood floor, beige floor and wood ceiling open concept kitchen photo in Chicago with an undermount sink, glass-front cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel countertops, brown backsplash, ceramic backsplash, colored appliances and two islands
Mid-sized mountain style l-shaped light wood floor, beige floor and wood ceiling open concept kitchen photo in Chicago with an undermount sink, glass-front cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel countertops, brown backsplash, ceramic backsplash, colored appliances and two islands

This traditional 1980's Texas kitchen was not only in need of a face lift, but was also in need of minor rearranging. The main issues were too many appliances jammed into one area and the homeowner needed to incorporate a home office into the kitchen as well. In order to keep a double oven, increase workspace, and allow for more food storage, we suggested replacing all the existing appliances with a 48" range, 42" built-in refrigerator, and built-in microwave. We also removed the peninsula and continued cabinets towards the breakfast area which opened up the kitchen to the eating area. We elongated the island adding more usable storage and working space, leaving open area on the end for seating. Lastly we integrated an office workspace by lowering the countertop, creating a seating area, and space for a pull out printer.

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!

Having a great deal of space for outdoor living is wonderful. Your landscape, however compact or vast, can be transformed into a beautiful outdoor room that’s perfect for enjoying our mild southeastern weather.
Perfect for entertaining and relaxing, outdoor living areas become an extension of your indoor living space. Outdoor living spaces offer comfort and increase property value with the development of quality outdoor components, furnishings and finishes.
Our full-time, professional designers love the challenge of creating unique outdoor living areas that reflect the vision of the client. We specialize in combining privacy and intimacy in each outdoor room, while ensuring that the design offers architectural integrity and complements the main structures.
A Simple Patio and Fire Pit, or an Outdoor Kitchen and Outdoor Fireplace?
No matter the size of your dream outdoor room, Turf Tamer, Inc. delivers creative living spaces using the finest materials and the latest advancements in outdoor construction.

We were lucky to be contacted by a client who designed their own dream home directly abutting a stunning nature preserve. When the homeowners were considering making some adjustments to their property, maintaining the connection between the home and its natural surroundings was of the utmost importance.
The couple wanted to create a space where they could drink in the beauty of the preserve. But what spurred the project was the need to make functional improvements. There was erosion on a hill sloping away from the house that needed to be addressed. Poor drainage saw rainwater was threatening the driveway and deck access on the side of the house.
As careful thinkers, they came into this project brimming with creative ideas for how to transform the space into something functional and worthy of its surroundings. They called us to help tie the project together and execute it.
Initial ideas were for a 3 or 4 season porch that would provide unmatched views of the surroundings, but with the functional aspects of the project, the dream porch was out of budget and still did not address the eroding hillside.
Not to worry the team at Lotus was able to take inspiration from the couples’ ideas, and together, we developed a stunning space truly worthy of the nature preserve around it.
PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS
In landscaping, the importance of water management cannot be overstated. Our first job in the landscape design process was to improve the drainage for the site. Improved drainage protects not just the landscaping, but the home itself. In fact, estimates indicate that water problems are responsible for 85% of home repair expenses in the US annually. To ensure the drainage problems were fixed permanently, Lotus constructed a retaining wall to protect the foundation of the house.
Once we fixed the broken drainage, we moved on to the slope at the side of the house. The hillside was badly eroding, making it another area of concern for the homeowners. Almost immediately, our team of experts saw the eroding hillside not as a problem, but as an opportunity. We fixed some grading issues and then planted the slope with native plants. These served a number of different functions:
Native plants tied the home and its landscape to the nature preserve. The Ann Arbor area features a diverse and beautiful array of plant life and this was something the Lotus team and the homeowners were excited to celebrate.
The plants’ root structure protects the integrity of the hillside. Plant roots act as anchors, gripping the earth and making the soil much more resistant to erosion. Native plants are especially good for this because they evolved alongside the native soil.
Plants on the hillside provided privacy from the neighbors. Look, we love our neighbors. But sometimes, in those quiet moments life affords us all too infrequently, it is nice to have a bit of peace and quiet. While a fence could do the job just as well, a fence isn’t suited to every environment. When your backyard is a nature preserve, you want to feel as connected to the land as possible. Tall native plants add to the feeling of connectedness in a way a fence simply can’t.
BEAUTIFUL RESULTS
The couple had a deck and a walkout patio, but these spaces felt disconnected. Many of the solutions they put forward were attempts to address this separation. Working with our designers, we created a beautiful, tiered walkway that connected the deck and the walkout using modern bluestone from Rock Bottom Stone Supply, right here in Michigan. We added lighting features that would increase the feeling of connectivity between these spaces.
We set out to create a space that would hover between the patio and the deck. This space would make our homeowners feel connected to the nature preserve around them while allowing them to feel creative and comfortable.
To start, we made benches, stairs, and a built-in table. From there we finished with a cedar pergola that would give them shade in the summer months. We ended up making the pergola curved so it would relax into the space and provide a bit of the wow factor. We connected the deck and the walkout and paid homage to the slope and the preserve by installing still more native plants.
All in all, the space completely rejuvenated the couple’s yard. It proved an elegant solution to a number of practical problems and served as a connection between the house and the stunning property onto which the house was built.
At Lotus, we have proven our ability to provide similar solutions for many properties like this, but this one stands out. If for no other reason than to remind us, again and again, that nature and natural beauty are truly worth celebrating.
Designer: Traven Pelletier
Location: Brighton, Mi
Materials: Limestone outcrop, bluestone patio, cedar pergola, all natural stone
Vendors: Rock Bottom Stone supply in Burton, Michigan, Hobart stone in New York is bluestone supplier

This deck once a dream has emerged as additional outdoor living space and now represents a significant increase to property value. Outdoor living space has become todays must-have. This design features Zuri Premium Decking by Royal, the latest maintenance free PVC with the look of Ipe hardwood. A gas fire feature accented with EP Henry Stone over a base of Belgard African Tile, is integrated into the deck area. Adjacent, is a gourmet kitchen accented in stone and granite, flanked by an ample seating area for entertainment.
Highlighting the design is a stunning covered structure with a tiger wood ceiling, supported by a pair of detailed columns on 36” stone bases joined by custom powder coated aluminum rails. The covered area decked in Belgard Tile, features an outdoor entertainment centers that includes a Flat Screen TV with a Sound Systems mounted on an Ipe and Mahogany Paneled Wall. A built-in Heater and Ceiling Fan transform this space for comfort and an expanded season of enjoyment. An LED Lighting Design extends enjoyment into the evening hours.
A project of this scope requires a Deck Professional specializing in all the elements that make up an Outdoor Design. Designing and Building an Outdoor Living Area like this one requires expert techniques and a vast awareness of materials. DeckRemodelers takes ownership of every project that they handle incorporating all these elements into a turnkey delivery for the client concept-to-completion.

This 1,800 sq ft all-season cottage is designed to make the most of its breathtaking south-facing view of the Ottawa River. Every aspect of the cottage was carefully considered to optimize the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring the water views are an integral part of daily life.
At the heart of the cottage is the expansive open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area, featuring a striking stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings. An abundance of windows along the river-facing side allows natural light to flood the space while offering uninterrupted views of the water. Strategic design elements, including retractable canopies, provide shade during hot summer months while allowing for increased sunlight during the winter to enhance the warmth and comfort of the interiors.
Perfect for entertaining, the spacious sunroom serves as a flexible space for both intimate gatherings and larger groups. It includes a second stone fireplace and ample room for dining and lounging, with seamless access to the outdoor deck. For sun lovers, the deck provides the perfect spot to bask in the warmth, while the canopy offers a shady retreat to enjoy the river views during hot days. A cozy firepit patio closer to the water creates an inviting space for evening gatherings, complete with the charm of a crackling fire and views of the river.
Off the sunroom, a screened porch offers a shaded escape, providing relief from the heat and bugs during the summer afternoons. This porch is conveniently located next to the BBQ area, allowing for easy outdoor cooking and socializing.
The primary bedroom suite includes a bedroom partition wall that allows the bed to face the river while providing unimpeded access to the walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. The main level also includes a butler’s pantry, office, full bathroom, and a second bedroom ideal for family.
The lower level expands the living space further, offering four additional guest bedrooms, a bunk room for the kids, ample storage, a laundry room, and a versatile games room. With thoughtful design and functional spaces, this cottage balances comfort, style, and connection to nature.

Graffio Collection by Antoniolupi
AL STUDIO
The Graffio sinks define a pure and contemporary style. The very thin edge widens in the back for the tap and to the side as an elegant and functional surface available smooth and grooved to increase the grip and facilitate the support of objects or accessories.
Rectangular, square, symmetrical or asymmetrical, single or double with rounded edges or perfectly regular, all with a flush drain cover of the same material. The perfect balance amongst the shapes amplifies the composition possibilities of this collection. Perfect alone or with furniture. Integrates well with the Bespoke collection. The sheer volume of the basin communicates well with the elegant finishes and surfaces of the cabinets.
Perfect geometrical shake that meet, clean lines and thin edges that define a perfect perimeter. Surfaces that overlap, compliment and pair up generating new shapes within its volume. Finally, a sign, a groove, a “scratch” that gives name to the collection.

The clients wanted to have a brighter and more functional kitchen with an updated and timeless style. We created plans with a large kitchen island and increased kitchen storage. We removed a wall to enlarge it as well as updated all the finishes and lighting.
Materials used:
Quartz countertops, porcelain Statuario backsplash and wall tile, grey ceramic floor tile , white lacquer and wood flat-panel cabinets, wood island with Quartz countertop and oven-range, built-in fridge cabinetry and integrated niche for the microwave.
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