Search results for "Increasingly integral" in Home Design Ideas

Our clients for this Silicon Valley remodel wanted us to enlarge their existing kitchen by expanding into their adjacent dinette and family room area and address heat and glare issues caused by the afternoon sun at the rear of the residence. Our remodel eventually addressed almost all of the ground floor rooms. In addition we coordinated the addition of new windows throughout the house and “refreshed” the front entry and rear façade. We expanded the kitchen into the dinette area by creating an informal bar area to replace their existing dinette area. We increased indoor-outdoor flow by creating a wall of French doors and windows at the rear which included solar shading integrated into the rear wall by means of a system of interior wall panels defined by carefully laid out reveals. We created a dropped ceiling between the kitchen and the family room to define the bar counter area. A new, minimalist fireplace design replaced the existing brick fireplace. Wenge-colored cabinets and soft putty-colored walls in the dining/family room create a serene overall unity to the space. At the front entry, new doors, hardware and lighting brought this Mid-century rancher into the 21st Century. Photos by Mark Brand.

This East Troy home on Booth Lake had a few drainage issues that needed to be resolved, but one thing was clear, the homeowners knew with the proper design features, their property had amazing potential to be a fixture on the lake.
Starting with a redesign of the backyard, including retaining walls and other drainage features, the home was then ready for a radical facelift. We redesigned the entry of the home with a timber frame portico/entryway. The entire portico was built with the old-world artistry of a mortise and tenon framing method. We also designed and installed a new deck and patio facing the lake, installed an integrated driveway and sidewalk system throughout the property and added a splash of evening effects with some beautiful architectural lighting around the house.
A Timber Tech deck with Radiance cable rail system was added off the side of the house to increase lake viewing opportunities and a beautiful stamped concrete patio was installed at the lower level of the house for additional lounging.
Lastly, the original detached garage was razed and rebuilt with a new design that not only suits our client’s needs, but is designed to complement the home’s new look. The garage was built with trusses to create the tongue and groove wood cathedral ceiling and the storage area to the front of the garage. The secondary doors on the lakeside of the garage were installed to allow our client to drive his golf cart along the crushed granite pathways and to provide a stunning view of Booth Lake from the multi-purpose garage.
Photos by Beth Welsh, Interior Changes

This transitional kitchen remodel in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania was designed to create a bright, open gathering space that blends timeless cabinetry with modern functionality. Completed by Craftsworth Construction, this Chester County kitchen renovation focused on improving flow, increasing storage, and introducing high-end finishes that elevate everyday living.
The centerpiece of the design is a large quartz waterfall island that provides both a visual focal point and additional prep space for cooking and entertaining. The island also integrates seating and built-in storage, helping anchor the open-concept layout while maintaining clean architectural lines.
Custom white shaker cabinetry extends to the ceiling with crown molding and glass display cabinets, creating a classic transitional look while maximizing storage throughout the kitchen. Warm brushed brass cabinet hardware and fixtures add contrast and sophistication against the bright cabinetry and countertops.
The perimeter counters feature quartz countertops paired with a marble-look backsplash, bringing texture and subtle movement to the space while maintaining a clean and cohesive palette. A professional-grade range with custom hood surround creates a dramatic focal wall while still maintaining the balanced symmetry of the cabinetry.
Large windows above the sink allow natural light to flood the kitchen, highlighting the bright finishes and the warmth of the natural hardwood flooring throughout the main living space. Modern pendant lighting above the island and a statement dining chandelier help define the different zones within the open-concept kitchen and dining area.
The finished result is a luxury transitional kitchen that combines classic craftsmanship with modern design elements, creating a space that feels elegant, functional, and inviting for both everyday use and entertaining.
This project was completed by Craftsworth Construction, a kitchen remodeling contractor serving Kennett Square, West Chester, and the greater Chester County and Delaware County Pennsylvania area.
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The finished kitchen feels elevated but inviting, perfect for returning home after travel and just as comfortable for quiet evenings as it is for entertaining. The upgraded layout, increased storage, and refined material choices create a kitchen that functions beautifully and looks effortlessly polished.

The finished kitchen feels elevated but inviting, perfect for returning home after travel and just as comfortable for quiet evenings as it is for entertaining. The upgraded layout, increased storage, and refined material choices create a kitchen that functions beautifully and looks effortlessly polished.

Bright, Comfortable Sunroom Addition by Stoneridge Outdoor Living
This custom-built sunroom by Stoneridge Outdoor Living blends indoor comfort with outdoor beauty. Designed to maximize natural light and provide year-round usability, this space features energy-efficient windows, durable composite materials, and seamless integration with the home’s exterior. Perfect for morning coffee, entertaining guests, or relaxing with a book, this sunroom creates a cozy retreat in any season.
Whether you’re looking to add living space, increase home value, or enjoy the outdoors without the bugs or weather, a professionally designed sunroom is the ideal solution.

When approached by the client for this particular project, their primary goal was a comprehensive kitchen remodel that also involved transforming an underused closet into a hidden walk-in pantry. Recognizing the potential of this space adjacent to the kitchen, we aimed to seamlessly integrate it into the overall design, offering practical storage solutions and enhancing functionality.
The addition of a walk-in pantry not only addressed the need for increased storage but also allowed us to declutter the main kitchen area. Items such as the microwave, beverage fridge, coffee maker, and various baked goods found a designated place, optimizing the kitchen's efficiency and organization.

Designed by Bryon Berrier of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Timonium, MD, this two-finish transitional styled kitchen remodel features Greenfield cabinetry.
The kitchen cabinets combine the Hancock A door style in paint grade wood with a painted Surfside finish on the perimeter cabinets with the Hancock J door style in Cherry with a Java-stained finish for the kitchen island cabinets and range hood.
Appliances, tile and Taj Mahal granite countertop were provided by others.
The client highlighted that the kitchen remodel enhanced “the functionality, overall cohesiveness, and accessibility through features like full-extension drawers and pull-out drawers in pantries and cabinets, as well as improved aesthetics. We also achieved increased storage within the same space by customizing shallower pantries, enlarging the island, and using floor-to-ceiling cabinets.”
“Bryon played a significant role in the process, offering suggestions on crown molding, cabinet selection, and assisting with hardware and sink choices. His responsiveness to any issues was highly appreciated, and all custom requests were successfully integrated into the design.”
According to Bryon, the clients were amazing to work with. “They had a good idea of the space they wanted to create but were also receptive to new ideas based on my experience.”
Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

An addition (done at wall in left of photo) increases size of kitchen to accommodate new island. Island provides second sink and dishwasher for help with cooking for large groups. Butcher block and stainless steel counters provide durability.
Photos by: Devon Carlock

Reimagining an Urban Classic
Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods.
The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views.
Architecture that Frames the View
At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape.
A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors.
Warm Modern Interiors
Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture.
The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home.
The Social Heart of the Home
The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate.
A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm.
Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond.
Private Retreats Above the City
Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day.
The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility.
Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness.
Spaces for Entertaining
Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts.
These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood
The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape.
Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city.
A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary
The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

When our clients made the move from East to West coast, they wanted to bring parts of their past along with them. Blending New York style with the relaxed, coastal vibe of La Jolla’s Wind & Sea community offered a unique design challenge and opportunity.
From the outset, the bathrooms and kitchen were identified as the primary focus of this renovation. The aim was to weave the couple's distinctive style into the design while integrating modern touches.
As we explored these priorities, we found that increasing the square footage would not only expand their living space but also make room for the corner fireplace they had been dreaming of. This addition would enhance both the functionality and the ambiance of the home, aligning perfectly with their vision for a more spacious and cozy living environment.
The design approach embraced a contemporary aesthetic through simple black and white color blocking, complemented by unique fixtures and fittings. To create a balanced and inviting atmosphere, the design incorporated natural light by way of skylights and larger windows, which helped highlight the deep wood grain cabinetry. Whimsical art and furnishings further personalized the space, infusing it with character and warmth.

The goal for this 1939 Tudor-style story-and-a-half home was to create a kitchen that offered the conveniences, storage, and performance of a modern workspace while preserving the warmth, craftsmanship, and vintage charm that made the home special. The client, an avid home cook, wanted the room to feel as though it had always belonged to the house, with thoughtful upgrades that respected the original architecture rather than competing with it. Just as important, she needed a more efficient layout with enough storage for small appliances, so everyday cooking would no longer require carrying items up from the lower level.
Several existing conditions shaped the design approach. The kitchen retained original, amber-stained birch woodwork that the client wished to keep, and the compact footprint was interrupted by six doorways and two windows, none of which were to be moved, altered, or replaced. A previous flooring update had left the door casings undercut too short, creating visible gaps where the casing met the floor. The existing vintage 40-inch range also lacked proper ventilation, yet the client wished to accommodate a refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop, double ovens, built-in microwave, and effective venting above the cooktop into the new kitchen layout.
To honor the original millwork, beaded inset-style cherry cabinetry was selected in a soft, hand-rubbed finish that will deepen over time and develop a natural patina. Charcoal-gray soapstone countertops complement the cabinetry while reinforcing the historic character of the home with an organic, timeworn texture. The former breakfast nook was transformed into a butler’s pantry, adding valuable base cabinet storage and expanded work surfaces for frequently used small appliances. Also in the butler’s pantry, a single upper cabinet was paired with open shelves to give an open, airy feeling while adding character and practical storage. A classic single-bowl apron-front workstation sink contributes both period-appropriate character and practical prep and cleanup function.
Because the home’s openings were such a defining feature, the design worked within the existing architecture instead of altering it. Custom plinth blocks were created for each doorway to extend the original casing gracefully down to the new natural red oak flooring, resolving the earlier construction issue while adding a detail that feels authentic to the age of the house. Despite the number of door and window openings, the new layout provides a significantly more functional, built-in kitchen with an improved work triangle for serious cooking.
Appliance placement was carefully planned to deliver the requested performance without overwhelming the small room. Three cooking functions (double ovens & microwave) were consolidated into one location with a GE Café double oven featuring Advantium Technology, while the client’s compact 31-inch refrigerator was reused to preserve space. A sleek 30-inch induction cooktop provides efficient cooking, and a Vent-A-Hood ARS ductless vent hood supplies needed ventilation without requiring a duct run to the exterior.
The finish palette balances richness, texture, and historical sensitivity. A deeply textured navy backsplash tile adds depth and dramatic shadow play against the soapstone, while wallpaper in the back entry echoes the tile’s geometric pattern to visually connect the adjoining spaces. Oil-rubbed bronze cabinet hardware and light fixtures enhance the warmth of the cherry cabinetry and complete the antique-inspired feel.
Lighting was layered to make the compact kitchen brighter, more useful, and more inviting. Vintage-style semi-flush ceiling fixtures establish the overall tone, while dimmable puck lights highlight select areas and undercabinet task lighting keeps work surfaces well illuminated.
The completed kitchen now feels both highly functional and deeply rooted in the home’s history. Rich cherry cabinetry, velvety soapstone, natural red oak flooring, navy tile, bronze accents, and carefully preserved birch trim work together to create a warm, cohesive space that celebrates timeless craftsmanship. By increasing storage, improving workflow, integrating modern appliances, and respecting the Tudor home’s original character, the design achieves the client’s vision: a kitchen that feels personal, practical, historically appropriate, and as though it has always been there.

Diehl Concrete is a local Denver business that prides itself in quality decorative work such as custom stamped concrete patios. The owner, Ryan Diehl, plays a hands-on part throughout the entire process. With over 15 years of experience in creating beautiful outdoor spaces, along with his un-compromised integrity, Diehl Concrete is a wise choice for your project.
There are countless examples of his work throughout Colorado, including Denver, Aurora, Brighton, Boulder, and Evergreen. Call today and Ryan Diehl will personally evaluate your project, answer your questions, and provide a free quote.
Benefits of Stamped Concrete Patios:
Affordability: Stamped concrete patios are much more affordable when compared to brick pavers or natural stone. Fortunately, This lower cost doesn’t lack durability or beauty.
Longevity: Concrete typically lasts longer than alternative patio materials. To ensure durability, Diehl Concrete will take the extra steps to reduce cracking. We will take great care in preparing your concrete sub-grade with proper compaction, and road base as well as rebar reinforcement within the concrete. Finally, expansion joints will be strategically placed to minimize and prevent cracking.
Color and Pattern Options: The sky is truly the limit on color choices and patterns for stamped concrete patios.
Shape: Due to its versatility of the substance, concrete offers homeowners the ability to create any type of shape they would like. Would you like curves, planting beds, or even a fire pit incorporated into your stamped concrete patio? No problem.
Low Maintenance: To maintain the look and uphold the durability, a once yearly sealer may be applied. This is something you can do yourself, or we can seal your patio for you.
Increased home resale value. Decorative concrete adds curb appeal and aesthetic value to your home, allowing you to maximize the return on your investment.

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

Amoeba Fusion aims to empower societies by providing a space for decentralized, innovative start-up communities. onE.GLobe considers the built environment a living, breathing, multiplying organism, evolving in nature with harmony. The structure can grow horizontally and vertically by adding new cores in different directions per each site condition. It creates public plazas shaded and shielded by the building as it grows. Fully self-sufficient structure houses flexible 3D printed dwellings and workspaces surrounded by semi-open garden spaces and atrium. Thirty feet deep floor plates receive daylight from the exterior and atrium and can conveniently be used as open-plan office space. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are distributed through modular floor plates, on which 3D printed modules are flexibly plugged in. 3D printed inflatable shells with indoor air cleaning plants house a plug-in kitchen, bedroom, workspace, and bathroom modules. The bridge-connected clusters have decentralized systems with the off-grid micro-grid integrating renewable energy sources and excess energy storage.
Compact layouts provide space for an increasing number of entrepreneurs, making them socialize and inspire near their accommodation. Eliminating corridors in dwelling units with an efficient design and replacing them with the garden space surrounding units achieve this endeavor.

Automated Home Lighting: Revolutionize Your Home with Smart Lighting Solutions
Transform your living space with automated home lighting, the latest innovation in smart home technology. Automated lighting systems provide convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security for homeowners. With smart lighting solutions, you can control your home's lighting from anywhere using voice commands, motion, smartphone app, , or automated schedules.
Benefits of Automated Home Lighting
Energy Efficiency: Save on energy bills by using smart bulbs and automated lighting controls that adjust brightness based on natural light or occupancy.
Convenience: Easily manage your home's lighting with smart home integration, including compatibility with Josh AI, Control 4, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other voice-activated systems.
Enhanced Security: Program your lights to turn on and off at specific times to give the appearance of occupancy, even when you're away, deterring potential intruders.
Customization: Create personalized lighting scenes for different moods and activities, such as reading, watching movies, or hosting a dinner party.
Features of Smart Lighting Systems
Remote Control: Adjust lighting settings from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet.
Voice Activation: Use voice commands to control your lights with popular smart home assistants like Josh AI, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Scheduling: Set schedules for your lights to turn on and off at specific times, enhancing convenience and security.
Energy Monitoring: Track energy usage and optimize lighting to reduce your carbon footprint.
Why Choose Automated Home Lighting?
Investing in automated home lighting not only adds convenience and style to your home but also increases its value. Smart lighting systems are easy to install and can be customized to meet your unique needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to improve energy efficiency, enhance home security, or simply enjoy the convenience of modern technology, automated home lighting is the perfect solution.

The finished kitchen feels elevated but inviting, perfect for returning home after travel and just as comfortable for quiet evenings as it is for entertaining. The upgraded layout, increased storage, and refined material choices create a kitchen that functions beautifully and looks effortlessly polished.

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

This spacious deck addition in Chapin, SC, by Archadeck of Central SC was built using low-maintenance AZEK decking with a composite rail. The deck also includes integrated deck lighting to increase ambiance and enhanced function for evening enjoyment!

This transitional kitchen remodel in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania was designed to create a bright, open gathering space that blends timeless cabinetry with modern functionality. Completed by Craftsworth Construction, this Chester County kitchen renovation focused on improving flow, increasing storage, and introducing high-end finishes that elevate everyday living.
The centerpiece of the design is a large quartz waterfall island that provides both a visual focal point and additional prep space for cooking and entertaining. The island also integrates seating and built-in storage, helping anchor the open-concept layout while maintaining clean architectural lines.
Custom white shaker cabinetry extends to the ceiling with crown molding and glass display cabinets, creating a classic transitional look while maximizing storage throughout the kitchen. Warm brushed brass cabinet hardware and fixtures add contrast and sophistication against the bright cabinetry and countertops.
The perimeter counters feature quartz countertops paired with a marble-look backsplash, bringing texture and subtle movement to the space while maintaining a clean and cohesive palette. A professional-grade range with custom hood surround creates a dramatic focal wall while still maintaining the balanced symmetry of the cabinetry.
Large windows above the sink allow natural light to flood the kitchen, highlighting the bright finishes and the warmth of the natural hardwood flooring throughout the main living space. Modern pendant lighting above the island and a statement dining chandelier help define the different zones within the open-concept kitchen and dining area.
The finished result is a luxury transitional kitchen that combines classic craftsmanship with modern design elements, creating a space that feels elegant, functional, and inviting for both everyday use and entertaining.
This project was completed by Craftsworth Construction, a kitchen remodeling contractor serving Kennett Square, West Chester, and the greater Chester County and Delaware County Pennsylvania area.
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