Search results for "Inefficient" in Home Design Ideas

This beautiful 1935 cottage nestled in the forest needed a kitchen update that honored the rest of this quaint home. The homeowners contacted us to complete a period remodel, with some craftsman detail inspiration from their friend's home. Their current kitchen was not only inefficient for them, but also reflected a different era not true to the house.

This kitchen was once closed off with two small doors and an odd-shaped peninsula. The cabinetry and tile floor was dated and the arrangement was inefficient.
We moved the wall between the adjoining living room and enlarged the opening, framing it in faux wood beams. Beams were also added to the kitchen. The living area became a large dining room with a custom chandelier and red metal cross back chairs. An 11 foot walnut island can seat 8 and has quartz countertops and a stainless undermount farmhouse apron sink.
Beveled subway tile with grey grout lines the walls and floating rustic shelves flank the modern stainless range hood. Undercabinet lighting and USB outlets give functionality to the desk area. Grey wood and metal swivel bar stools add slim, clean seating.
Rustic wood flooring was added throughout the main level.

A long overdue renovation was needed for this kitchen. Belonging to a chef, it was cramped, inefficient and difficult to work in. Turnstyle came in and opened up walls, bringing in much more natural light, improving flow and removing previous space constraints. With floor to ceiling glass tile in a gorgeous palette and herringbone pattern, we emphasized the extra-large pass-through we created, with now full view to the pool and what we turned into the now dining room. Custom cabinetry and countertops, feel easy for kids to find their place and wallpaper adds whimsy surrounding a wonderful open pantry area – perfect for any chef to feel fully inspired. | Twist Tours Photography
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What began as a dated primary bathroom and undersized closet evolved into a light-filled retreat designed around the homeowners' lifestyle. The original space featured a large built-in tub, oversized shower enclosure, limited storage, and an inefficient closet layout that no longer met the family's needs.
Through extensive demolition and structural modifications, the bathroom and closet were completely reconfigured to maximize both function and beauty. Walls were removed, storage was reimagined, and every square foot was carefully planned to create a more open, luxurious experience.
The finished space features a freestanding soaking tub positioned beneath expansive windows, a custom walk-in shower wrapped in marble-look porcelain, warm brass fixtures and hardware, custom cabinetry, and a fully tailored dressing room with dedicated storage for clothing, shoes, and accessories. Soft neutral finishes, elegant lighting, and thoughtfully layered details create a timeless primary suite designed to feel like a private retreat.

This homeowner loved her home, loved the location, but it needed updating and a more efficient use of the condensed space she had for her master bedroom/bath.
She was desirous of a spa-like master suite that not only used all spaces efficiently but was a tranquil escape to enjoy.
Her master bathroom was small, dated and inefficient with a corner shower and she used a couple small areas for storage but needed a more formal master closet and designated space for her shoes. Additionally, we were working with severely sloped ceilings in this space, which required us to be creative in utilizing the space for a hallway as well as prized shoe storage while stealing space from the bedroom. She also asked for a laundry room on this floor, which we were able to create using stackable units. Custom closet cabinetry allowed for closed storage and a fun light fixture complete the space. Her new master bathroom allowed for a large shower with fun tile and bench, custom cabinetry with transitional plumbing fixtures, and a sliding barn door for privacy.

This mid-century modern bathroom remodel began by tackling the challenge of reconfiguring a cramped and inefficient master suite layout. The goal was to create a spacious bathroom with double sinks and integrated linen storage, alongside a better-organized closet. Originally positioned above the closet, the skylight was better suited for the bathroom, so we flipped the floor plan to bring that natural light where it’s most needed. The result is a bathroom that seamlessly blends mid-century modern style with craftsman-inspired details, perfectly complementing the character of this early 1900s home.

An under used whirlpool tub and inefficient layout were rectified by removing the tub and outdated glass block shower to create a generous walk-in shower area and dual vanity with built ins for storage. Woods and textured materials add warmth and sophistication to the space.

The remodel of this family's home began with updating the master bedroom and bathroom. The clients were so thrilled with the results that the project scope increased to include the renovation of their entire home. A once cramped and inefficient layout was completely revised and space was expanded to include a new stairwell tower and upper landing, new kitchen, walk-in pantry, dining room and guest wing.
Architect: Stoner Architects
Photography: Holli Dunn @2littlebirdies Photography

The Setup
For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners wanted to transform their large, T-shaped bathroom into a functional, multi-purpose sanctuary. The existing layout was inefficient, with a bulky built-in tub, a closed-off shower, and an awkward footprint that limited practical use.
This remodel also presented a unique challenge – the homeowners wanted to use the space for workouts as well. The design needed to maximize the large open area in the middle of the T, providing enough room for yoga and light free-weight exercises while maintaining the bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality.
Design objectives:
Expand and brighten the shower area without major layout changes
Replace the oversized built-in tub with a sleek freestanding alternative
Create a flexible space for workouts while maintaining the bathroom’s design integrity
Address cold flooring with added comfort solutions
Enhance lighting for both beauty and functionality
Incorporate storage for workout equipment and everyday essentials
Integrate natural elements to accommodate the homeowners’ love of plants
The Remodel
Design challenges to be solved:
Shower Expansion – The homeowners want a more open, spa-like shower but don’t want to dramatically alter the footprint.
Workout Integration – Balancing fitness functionality with a serene bathroom design will require creative layout adjustments.
Storage Solutions – With workout gear to stow away, the space needs discrete and versatile storage options.
Lighting – Enhancing both natural and artificial lighting to brighten the large space.
Cold Floors – Positioned above the garage, the bathroom tends to feel colder than the adjacent primary bedroom. A solution is needed to add warmth and comfort during use, without the need to reconfigure the home’s overall heating system.
The Renewed Space
Design solutions:
Spa-Like Shower Expansion – Removing a wall and replacing it with glass transformed the shower into an open, airy retreat, allowing natural light to flow freely through the space. A curved black river rock floor and neutral linear wall tiles add warmth and texture, while carefully placed niche lighting enhances the tranquil, luxurious atmosphere.
Workout-Friendly Layout – A custom full-length mirror was strategically placed to accommodate multiple uses, creating a fitness studio-like experience for yoga or light weight training. The mirror’s size and positioning allow for clear visibility during workouts, while also enhancing the room by adding light and a greater sense of depth.
Custom Storage Solutions – A custom cabinet with a wood top was crafted to discreetly store workout equipment, preserving the clean, open feel of the space. Its design not only enhances functionality but also creates a sense of symmetry, bringing visual balance and cohesion to the overall layout.
Enhanced Lighting – Replacing the shower wall with glass, installing a full-length mirror, and incorporating vanity mirrors with built-in lighting dramatically brighten the space. LED strip lighting under the cabinets, along the tub half wall, and in both the side and shower niches adds layered illumination, enhancing both function and ambiance.
Heated Floors – Installing heated flooring provides consistent warmth and comfort year-round, enhancing the space for both workouts and daily routines. A European-style towel warmer brings additional warmth and a touch of luxury, elevating the overall experience.
Final Thoughts:
This transformed bathroom blends luxury with intentional design. By addressing the homeowners’ needs – from workout flexibility to spa-inspired details – the space now serves multiple purposes without compromise. The warm cabinetry, black accents and thoughtful lighting tie the design together, while the curved textures and plant-friendly ledge add a personalized touch. This bathroom is now a bright, welcoming sanctuary for daily routines and mindful moments.

The Home Office including work and study areas are essential in today's modern home. New technologies, work at home as well as shared spaces make the standard desk system inefficient if not obsolete. We can help create the ideal high performance area that will not only work for you but also add to the beauty of your home.

JDBG created an expansive and tailored new master bathroom/closet/dressing area by reclaiming wasted space from an inefficient and dated bathroom layout.
Stacy Zarin Goldberg Photography

Our homeowner had worked with us in the past and asked us to design and renovate their 1980’s style master bathroom and closet into a modern oasis with a more functional layout. The original layout was chopped up and an inefficient use of space. Keeping the windows where they were, we simply swapped the vanity and the tub, and created an enclosed stool room. The shower was redesigned utilizing a gorgeous tile accent wall which was also utilized on the tub wall of the bathroom. A beautiful free-standing tub with modern tub filler were used to modernize the space and added a stunning focal point in the room. Two custom tall medicine cabinets were built to match the vanity and the closet cabinets for additional storage in the space with glass doors. The closet space was designed to match the bathroom cabinetry and provide closed storage without feeling narrow or enclosed. The outcome is a striking modern master suite that is not only functional but captures our homeowners’ great style.

In this project, We have transformed an outdated and inefficient kitchen into a modern, functional, and beautiful space that meets the homeowner's needs and preferences. The project involved several changes, including Cabinets, backsplash, lighting, appliances, and a redesigned island. The old cabinets were replaced with custom-made cabinets that provide more storage space and modern design features, such as soft-close doors and drawers. The cabinets are made of high-quality materials and finished with a durable and stylish coating. The old appliances were replaced with new stainless-steel appliances that provide better energy efficiency and modern features. The old countertops were replaced with new white granite countertops that are not only more durable but also add a touch of elegance to the kitchen and are easy to clean, heat-resistant, and provide ample workspace for cooking and entertaining. The old lighting was replaced with new lighting fixtures that are strategically placed to highlight the kitchen's focal points and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The new backsplash was installed using tiles that add a pop of color and texture to the kitchen and it is not only stylish but also practical, as it protects the walls from moisture and stains. The island was redesigned that provides additional workspace and storage. Overall, this completed kitchen remodeling project has transformed the old kitchen into a space that is not only functional but also stylish and inviting. The new design features and high-quality materials have improved the kitchen's functionality, aesthetics, and value, making it a place that the homeowner can enjoy for years to come.

This kitchen was transformed from a dark, inefficient space into a bright welcoming area full of countertop space and storage. Accented with brass fixtures, lighting and hardware this transitional meets modern farmhouse kitchen space now offers this family lots of new amenities such as a 4-seat island, coffee/entertaining bar area as well as tons of storage. A simple arch-style valance finishes off the kitchen window space to bring a pop of color into the space.

What was once an awkward and inefficient primary bathroom is now a space designed to truly function. The original doorway cut directly into the vanity, and a built in tub consumed valuable square footage, limiting both storage and circulation.
By relocating the entry and reworking the layout, we were able to create a more natural flow. An upgraded shower and a large double oak vanity with thoughtful storage solutions now anchor the space, making daily routines seamless. Heated terrazzo floors add comfort underfoot, while streamlined plumbing fixtures bring a clean, intentional finish to the design.
In the guest bathroom, we moved beyond purely functional and introduced color, pattern, and layered texture to create a space that feels personal and inviting.
Hearing our client share that this remodel has genuinely improved her quality of life is exactly why we do what we do. The result is a cohesive primary and guest bathroom renovation that balances beauty, comfort, and everyday function.

Although large and spacious the original kitchen did not meet the client's needs. The appliances were old and inefficient and the cabinets did not reflect the style of the home. The goal was to design the kitchen for more than one cook and include high-end appliances and stylish cabinetry and finishes. The new design allows for food preparation, cooking and storage areas. The professional style refrigerator allows access from both sides of the island. The microwave oven is beside the refrigerator for quick re-heats while the professional oven at the other end cooks food at remarkable speed. The range top becomes the command center. Plenty of space was allocated at the window at the end of the kitchen for a large table and chairs that overlook a beautiful backyard. A wet bar was located at the opposite end just outside the kitchen along with a walk-in pantry for additional storage. The kitchen is now completed in a traditional style with simple, but elegant, white painted cabinetry. White marble counter tops and back splashes are highlighted by elegant pendant lights above the island. Finally, this beautiful room is dramatized by a black coffered ceiling accented by lighting above the crown molding.

This 1963 brick home was given the opportunity for new life when a creative couple from Brooklyn took a chance and moved their life to Nashville! The kitchen went from a dreary, sad, barely functional room to an inspiring space to gather and entertain. Removing the wall between the living and kitchen opened up the previously choppy, inefficient layout to bring a sense of flow and ease to the home. We designed a custom island/dining table, seamlessly flowing from the terrazzo style quartz countertops into the solid maple table, complimented by the slat wood design on the range hood. We decided to go with a larger scale subway tile in a horizontal stacked pattern to keep the feel light, but also modern and timeless. The built-in matte black wall cabinetry brings a minimal but striking moment to balance the airiness of the other side of the kitchen, while providing ample storage for the pantry as well as a large bar for the cocktail aficionado couple. We incorporated some beautiful handmade pendants from Mexico and hung them at differing heights to accentuate the custom island. Now the space is modern, bright, textured, minimal and elevated. The clients are so pleased, and feel that this house can be a home for them to create and host and be.

This project is an incredible transformation and the perfect example of successful style mixing! This client, and now a good friend of TVL (as they all become), is a wonderfully eclectic and adventurous one with immense interest in texture play, pops of color, and unique applications. Our scope in this home included a full kitchen renovation, main level powder room renovation, and a master bathroom overhaul. Taking just over a year to complete from the first design phases to final photos, this project was so insanely fun and packs an amazing amount of fun details and lively surprises. The original kitchen was large and fairly functional. However, the cabinetry was dated, the lighting was inefficient and frankly ugly, and the space was lacking personality in general. Our client desired maximized storage and a more personalized aesthetic. The existing cabinets were short and left the nice height of the space under-utilized. We integrated new gray shaker cabinets from Waypoint Living Spaces and ran them to the ceiling to really exaggerate the height of the space and to maximize usable storage as much as possible. The upper cabinets are glass and lit from within, offering display space or functional storage as the client needs. The central feature of this space is the large cobalt blue range from Viking as well as the custom made reclaimed wood range hood floating above. The backsplash along this entire wall is vertical slab of marble look quartz from Pental Surfaces. This matches the expanse of the same countertop that wraps the room. Flanking the range, we installed cobalt blue lantern penny tile from Merola Tile for a playful texture that adds visual interest and class to the entire room. We upgraded the lighting in the ceiling, under the cabinets, and within cabinets--we also installed accent sconces over each window on the sink wall to create cozy and functional illumination. The deep, textured front Whitehaven apron sink is a dramatic nod to the farmhouse aesthetic from KOHLER, and it's paired with the bold and industrial inspired Tournant faucet, also from Kohler. We finalized this space with other gorgeous appliances, a super sexy dining table and chair set from Room & Board, the Paxton dining light from Pottery Barn and a small bar area and pantry on the far end of the space. In the small powder room on the main level, we converted a drab builder-grade space into a super cute, rustic-inspired washroom. We utilized the Bonner vanity from Signature Hardware and paired this with the cute Ashfield faucet from Pfister. The most unique statements in this room include the water-drop light over the vanity from Shades Of Light, the copper-look porcelain floor tile from Pental Surfaces and the gorgeous Cashmere colored Tresham toilet from Kohler. Up in the master bathroom, elegance abounds. Using the same footprint, we upgraded everything in this space to reflect the client's desire for a more bright, patterned and pretty space. Starting at the entry, we installed a custom reclaimed plank barn door with bold large format hardware from Rustica Hardware. In the bathroom, the custom slate blue vanity from Tharp Cabinet Company is an eye catching statement piece. This is paired with gorgeous hardware from Amerock, vessel sinks from Kohler, and Purist faucets also from Kohler. We replaced the old built-in bathtub with a new freestanding soaker from Signature Hardware. The floor tile is a bold, graphic porcelain tile with a classic color scheme. The shower was upgraded with new tile and fixtures throughout: new clear glass, gorgeous distressed subway tile from the Castle line from TileBar, and a sophisticated shower panel from Vigo. We finalized the space with a small crystal chandelier and soft gray paint. This project is a stunning conversion and we are so thrilled that our client can enjoy these personalized spaces for years to come. Special thanks to the amazing Ian Burks of Burks Wurks Construction for bringing this to life!

This Primary Suite renovation was designed to enhance both functionality and aesthetics, creating a luxurious yet practical retreat. The original floor plan presented several challenges, including inefficient space utilization, lack of storage, and outdated design elements that no longer met the homeowner’s needs. To address these concerns, the new layout was carefully planned to improve flow, maximize storage, and incorporate modern conveniences while maintaining a timeless appeal.
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