Search results for "Increasingly subtle" in Home Design Ideas

This 44' long water feature blends into the woodland setting of this large back yard by starting in the Redwood grove outside the client's bedroom deck, meandering by a fire pit sitting area, and ending in front of their dining patio. It has become the main feature of the yard as it can be heard and seen throughout. It is subtle, yet central. There are three falls and a place to cross from the deck to the fire pit. The water recirculates and is stored in a reservoir underground, eliminating evaporation, algae, and bug issues. The grade of the yard needed to be raised near the Redwood grove to increase the slope of the stream.

In this kitchen remodeling project, our homeowners envisioned a clean and inviting Scandinavian-style space. To achieve their desired aesthetic, we prioritized several key elements. The first step involved updating the backsplash with fresh white tiles, creating a bright and airy backdrop that epitomized the Scandinavian design philosophy. The lighting in both the kitchen and dining room was meticulously chosen to elevate the space. We installed modern fixtures that emitted warm, diffused light, adding a cozy ambiance and enhancing the overall atmosphere. To further enhance the Scandinavian charm, the white kitchen cabinets were adorned with new gold hardware, providing a subtle touch of elegance and contrast. The gold sink faucet harmonized with the hardware, ensuring a cohesive and stylish look. A kitchen island was added to increase functionality, featuring matching white cabinets and a countertop, seamlessly integrating with the rest of the kitchen. Finally, the hardwood flooring brought warmth and natural beauty, completing the Scandinavian-inspired transformation. The result was a clean, inviting, and harmonious kitchen that perfectly captured the essence of Scandinavian design

From dark and dreary to light and bright! ?
These clients loved the custom home that they built almost a decade ago but were growing tired of their interior and wanted to make a change. Their vision was to lighten, brighten and modernize the finishes and designs in the home they had originally built, so they turned to the OakWood Team for expert advice.
There are a lot of things we love about this updated kitchen design, but one of our favourite details has to be the island countertop which features a combination of quartz and a custom end grain black walnut butcherblock. End-grain construction is made from small rectangular blocks arranged so that the ends (with growth rings showing) are visible on the surface. The strongest and most expensive type of butcher block, it’s great for surfaces dedicated to cutting, because it camouflages knife marks and is gentle on blade edges (they slide into the grain rather than against it).
Another goal for this space was to create a more open concept plan. There are no barriers between the eating area, kitchen, and living room, allowing for better communication, ease of movement, and increased lighting. This idea of transparency is also seen in the open shelving and the glass cabinetry uppers. Although very subtle, these glass details help complement the look and feel of this space.
The end result is a completely redesigned space that any homeowner would be proud of.
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This beautiful kitchen has a lot to boast about! The teak countertop, the big farmhouse sink, and the contrasting island color combine to make a beautiful workspace. The cabinets are from Medallion's platinum line which basically means the doors are inset. The door style i s Bayshore. The main kitchen is the Divinity finish, the island is done in the Marine finish.
Inset doors are not on Mike's go-to list as any change in humidity may result in subtle swelling or shrinking of the doors resulting in a place where the door rubs off the finish as it opens or where the gap between the door and frame increases. If you're good with that wearing, then it is indeed a beautiful look!

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.

The homeowners came to me looking for a way to upgrade their builder kitchen in every sense, improving aesthetics, function, storage, and usable counter space.
The layout was expanded with the addition of a full secondary wall of cabinetry, bringing balance to the room while significantly increasing everyday function. A peninsula was introduced to extend the workspace, providing generous prep area along with integrated storage.
A custom millwork detail carries the upper cabinetry through the existing bulkhead, allowing it to remain while creating a more cohesive, built-in look. A small desk area was also incorporated to support daily household tasks.
Material selections were chosen to bring warmth and softness to the space, including a solid taupe quartz countertop paired with a glass and marble hexagon mosaic backsplash that adds subtle texture and light.
The peninsula also provides a comfortable seating position, creating a place for connection during meal preparation. The result is a well considered kitchen that supports the rhythm of everyday living.

In the kitchen, new Shaker style cabinets in a soft gray finish are complemented by quartz countertops with subtle Calacatta Gold veining. We increased functionality by using full overlay cabinets with soft-close doors and full-extension drawers; we added useful accessories such as roll-outs, tray dividers and a trash/recycling center. The new undermount stainless steel sink is a stylish upgrade from the old enameled drop-in sink and the full height textured subway tile is a huge improvement over the old four inch high laminate backsplash. The kitchen pantry received new shelving and the adjacent laundry/utility room even got a facelift with luxury vinyl tile flooring and new paint.

These clients loved the historic details of their classic Portland Bungalow, but wished for modern updates to improve livability. We were able to capture square footage to the kitchen by removing an unused chimney allowing us to increase additional work surface with the addition of a narrow island. Where traffic flow previously moved directly across the work triangle, the new layout keeps cooking activities within one zone of the kitchen and shifting traffic flow to another zone, allowing their daughter and four-legged family members to run through the space freely! High-end appliances create a luxury cooking experience. Crisp surfaces and colors create a light and bright space while classically sized crown and trim profiles draw the eye up and around the room offering a feeling of expanse in a modestly sized footprint. The blue and white color pallet offer a subtle reminder to coastal and tropical environments … the client’s favorite place to escape!

This beautiful kitchen has a lot to boast about! The teak countertop, the big farmhouse sink, and the contrasting island color combine to make a beautiful workspace. The cabinets are from Medallion's platinum line which basically means the doors are inset. The door style i s Bayshore. The main kitchen is the Divinity finish, the island is done in the Marine finish.
Inset doors are not on Mike's go-to list as any change in humidity may result in subtle swelling or shrinking of the doors resulting in a place where the door rubs off the finish as it opens or where the gap between the door and frame increases. If you're good with that wearing, then it is indeed a beautiful look!

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.

This is a project where the softness of white Ikea kitchen cabinet doors, in combination with the height of the space, worked beautifully. The increased storage offered by two stacked rows of top cabinets created ample storage and palatial looks. Knowing the difference in shade between Grimslov and Axtad style Ikea kitchen doors, we decided the house style would blend perfectly by choosing a crisp white door like Axtad. The backsplash tile has a slight iridescent pearl hue, soaking the space in subtle iridescent light. We personalized the kitchen with brass handles. The choice of white, modern appliances with copper handles is daring, and we think it looks charming. The build-in double door oven, fridge, dishwasher, and range are GE Cafe.

These clients loved the historic details of their classic Portland Bungalow, but wished for modern updates to improve livability. We were able to capture square footage to the kitchen by removing an unused chimney allowing us to increase additional work surface with the addition of a narrow island. Where traffic flow previously moved directly across the work triangle, the new layout keeps cooking activities within one zone of the kitchen and shifting traffic flow to another zone, allowing their daughter and four-legged family members to run through the space freely! High-end appliances create a luxury cooking experience. Crisp surfaces and colors create a light and bright space while classically sized crown and trim profiles draw the eye up and around the room offering a feeling of expanse in a modestly sized footprint. The blue and white color pallet offer a subtle reminder to coastal and tropical environments … the client’s favorite place to escape!

A classic Portland foursquare, lovingly owned by an active and lively family of four, had undergone some unfortunate previous renovations that were in desperate need of updating. A cramped kitchen layout, lacking countertop work space, non-functional appliance locations (the range was floating on it’s own!), cramped kitchen nook not large enough for eat-in space and therefor left underutilized, and a general lack of storage all needed to be addressed.
To increase functional space, we enclosed a small back porch and re-built the adjacent nook, folding in the square footage to create an expansive kitchen footprint. We relocated the back door and added a back deck while creating space for a mud bench for littles to tuck away their gear! The enlarged kitchen now boasts a extensive natural light thanks to the addition of several windows.
An easy work flow was created within the new kitchen layout featuring an in-island sink with range and hood flanked by matching windows. Custom cabinet accessories make storage a breeze and provide a space for all the necessities to be right at the homeowner’s fingertips. The eat-in kitchen space allows not only for lingering family chats, but homework and craft projects to be done while dinner simmers on the stove. This kitchen truly is the heart of this home!
All of the updates were completed with the home’s original foursquare architecture in mind. with a focus on classic architectural molding styles, traditional window details, and clean-lined classic fixtures. Youthfulness and modernity are infused into the space with the contemporary handmade tile backsplash, rich and timeless green cabinets, and artistic wallpaper with a whimsical floral print and subtle European nod. The custom range in cream and brass is a stunning showstopper and a testament that even the most functional of elements in a kitchen can still be beautiful! Which one is the star of the show? How do we pick just one?!

A classic Portland foursquare, lovingly owned by an active and lively family of four, had undergone some unfortunate previous renovations that were in desperate need of updating. A cramped kitchen layout, lacking countertop work space, non-functional appliance locations (the range was floating on it’s own!), cramped kitchen nook not large enough for eat-in space and therefor left underutilized, and a general lack of storage all needed to be addressed.
To increase functional space, we enclosed a small back porch and re-built the adjacent nook, folding in the square footage to create an expansive kitchen footprint. We relocated the back door and added a back deck while creating space for a mud bench for littles to tuck away their gear! The enlarged kitchen now boasts a extensive natural light thanks to the addition of several windows.
An easy work flow was created within the new kitchen layout featuring an in-island sink with range and hood flanked by matching windows. Custom cabinet accessories make storage a breeze and provide a space for all the necessities to be right at the homeowner’s fingertips. The eat-in kitchen space allows not only for lingering family chats, but homework and craft projects to be done while dinner simmers on the stove. This kitchen truly is the heart of this home!
All of the updates were completed with the home’s original foursquare architecture in mind. with a focus on classic architectural molding styles, traditional window details, and clean-lined classic fixtures. Youthfulness and modernity are infused into the space with the contemporary handmade tile backsplash, rich and timeless green cabinets, and artistic wallpaper with a whimsical floral print and subtle European nod. The custom range in cream and brass is a stunning showstopper and a testament that even the most functional of elements in a kitchen can still be beautiful! Which one is the star of the show? How do we pick just one?!

From dark and dreary to light and bright! ?
These clients loved the custom home that they built almost a decade ago but were growing tired of their interior and wanted to make a change. Their vision was to lighten, brighten and modernize the finishes and designs in the home they had originally built, so they turned to the OakWood Team for expert advice.
There are a lot of things we love about this updated kitchen design, but one of our favourite details has to be the island countertop which features a combination of quartz and a custom end grain black walnut butcherblock. End-grain construction is made from small rectangular blocks arranged so that the ends (with growth rings showing) are visible on the surface. The strongest and most expensive type of butcher block, it’s great for surfaces dedicated to cutting, because it camouflages knife marks and is gentle on blade edges (they slide into the grain rather than against it).
Another goal for this space was to create a more open concept plan. There are no barriers between the eating area, kitchen, and living room, allowing for better communication, ease of movement, and increased lighting. This idea of transparency is also seen in the open shelving and the glass cabinetry uppers. Although very subtle, these glass details help complement the look and feel of this space.
The end result is a completely redesigned space that any homeowner would be proud of.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

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.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Charleston II Modern Hill Country in Ravenna, Ohio, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with rustic elements. Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II offers increased square footage and abundant storage solutions tailored for modern living. The heart of the home is a chef-ready kitchen equipped with generous counter space, a large central island to gather around, and premium double-stacked cabinets flanking both perimeter walls to maximize storage. The kitchen cabinetry showcases an elegant mix of design textures, featuring sophisticated glass-front doors above the cooktop for a sleek, stylish display and traditional solid-door double-stacked cabinetry above the refrigerator. Directly off the main kitchen, the walk-in pantry has been upgraded into a dual-purpose space featuring a secondary messy kitchen, allowing all meal prep and cooking clutter to remain hidden behind closed doors while entertaining guests.
Distinct custom woodwork details elevate the interior architecture throughout the home. Both the great room and the dining room are anchored by matching 3D accent walls featuring a geometric design that adds subtle contrast and high-end visual focal points to the open layout. For those who work from home, a versatile front flex room has been outfitted with custom-built-in shelves and cabinets to create an organized executive study. Additionally, a perfectly placed pocket office provides a dedicated zone for daily tasks before flowing seamlessly into the private owner's retreat, which serves as a main-level sanctuary with its spacious primary bath and two independent walk-in closets. A smart split-bedroom layout places the secondary bedrooms on the completely opposite side of the residence, ensuring ultimate privacy so everyone in the family can enjoy their own space.

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.

The kitchen and mudroom renovation of this 1880 New Hope, PA home balanced preservation with modern function. The project added contemporary features without losing the original charm, using warm materials and subtle contrasts for a unified look that honors its history. The design improved space flow, increased natural light, and incorporated custom touches to enhance usability within the historic structure.
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