Bold, dramatic and singular home with a relaxed yet sophisticated interior. Minimal but not austere. Subtle but impactful. Mix of California and Colorado influences in a Minnesota foundation. Builder - John Kraemer & Sons / Architect - Sharratt Design Company / Troy Thies - Project Photographer

A blue flat-panel kitchen is a modern and stylish culinary space that embraces the serene and inviting qualities of the color blue while incorporating a streamlined and minimalist design. The defining feature of this kitchen is the cabinetry, characterized by flat-panel doors and drawers. The cabinetry, often sleek and handleless, creates a clean and uncluttered appearance, lending a contemporary aesthetic to the room. The choice of blue as the cabinet color introduces a sense of calm and sophistication, making it a refreshing departure from more traditional kitchen colors. The shade of blue can vary from soft and muted pastels to deeper and more vibrant blues, allowing for a range of design possibilities. The color choice may be influenced by personal preferences, and it can evoke different moods, from tranquil and coastal to vibrant and energetic. Countertops in this kitchen are typically crafted from materials like quartz or solid surface, providing a sleek and easy-to-maintain workspace. The countertops may be in complementary colors, such as white, gray, or black, to balance and enhance the overall design. Backsplashes can vary from classic subway tiles to more modern and colorful options, adding an element of style and texture to the space. These may also feature blue hues, creating a cohesive and harmonious design. Flooring options include materials like light-colored tile or hardwood, which create a neutral foundation that complements the blue cabinetry while brightening the room. An area rug beneath the dining or cooking area can add a cozy and personal touch. Pendant lights with contemporary designs provide both functional lighting and a decorative element, often adding a touch of metal or glass to the design. These fixtures contribute to the modern and stylish ambiance of the kitchen. The walls are typically painted in neutral or light colors, allowing the blue cabinets to stand out and create a focal point. Natural light pouring in through windows enhances the bright and open atmosphere of the space. A blue flat-panel kitchen is a contemporary and sophisticated setting for culinary creativity and social gatherings. The harmonious fusion of sleek design, the calming influence of the color blue, and functional elements creates a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical for modern living.

This 1907 home in the Ericsson neighborhood of South Minneapolis needed some love. A tiny, nearly unfunctional kitchen and leaking bathroom were ready for updates. The homeowners wanted to embrace their heritage, and also have a simple and sustainable space for their family to grow. The new spaces meld the home’s traditional elements with Traditional Scandinavian design influences. In the kitchen, a wall was opened to the dining room for natural light to carry between rooms and to create the appearance of space. Traditional Shaker style/flush inset custom white cabinetry with paneled front appliances were designed for a clean aesthetic. Custom recycled glass countertops, white subway tile, Kohler sink and faucet, beadboard ceilings, and refinished existing hardwood floors complete the kitchen after all new electrical and plumbing. In the bathroom, we were limited by space! After discussing the homeowners’ use of space, the decision was made to eliminate the existing tub for a new walk-in shower. By installing a curbless shower drain, floating sink and shelving, and wall-hung toilet; Castle was able to maximize floor space! White cabinetry, Kohler fixtures, and custom recycled glass countertops were carried upstairs to connect to the main floor remodel. White and black porcelain hex floors, marble accents, and oversized white tile on the walls perfect the space for a clean and minimal look, without losing its traditional roots! We love the black accents in the bathroom, including black edge on the shower niche and pops of black hex on the floors. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

This 1907 home in the Ericsson neighborhood of South Minneapolis needed some love. A tiny, nearly unfunctional kitchen and leaking bathroom were ready for updates. The homeowners wanted to embrace their heritage, and also have a simple and sustainable space for their family to grow. The new spaces meld the home’s traditional elements with Traditional Scandinavian design influences. In the kitchen, a wall was opened to the dining room for natural light to carry between rooms and to create the appearance of space. Traditional Shaker style/flush inset custom white cabinetry with paneled front appliances were designed for a clean aesthetic. Custom recycled glass countertops, white subway tile, Kohler sink and faucet, beadboard ceilings, and refinished existing hardwood floors complete the kitchen after all new electrical and plumbing. In the bathroom, we were limited by space! After discussing the homeowners’ use of space, the decision was made to eliminate the existing tub for a new walk-in shower. By installing a curbless shower drain, floating sink and shelving, and wall-hung toilet; Castle was able to maximize floor space! White cabinetry, Kohler fixtures, and custom recycled glass countertops were carried upstairs to connect to the main floor remodel. White and black porcelain hex floors, marble accents, and oversized white tile on the walls perfect the space for a clean and minimal look, without losing its traditional roots! We love the black accents in the bathroom, including black edge on the shower niche and pops of black hex on the floors. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

This 1907 home in the Ericsson neighborhood of South Minneapolis needed some love. A tiny, nearly unfunctional kitchen and leaking bathroom were ready for updates. The homeowners wanted to embrace their heritage, and also have a simple and sustainable space for their family to grow. The new spaces meld the home’s traditional elements with Traditional Scandinavian design influences. In the kitchen, a wall was opened to the dining room for natural light to carry between rooms and to create the appearance of space. Traditional Shaker style/flush inset custom white cabinetry with paneled front appliances were designed for a clean aesthetic. Custom recycled glass countertops, white subway tile, Kohler sink and faucet, beadboard ceilings, and refinished existing hardwood floors complete the kitchen after all new electrical and plumbing. In the bathroom, we were limited by space! After discussing the homeowners’ use of space, the decision was made to eliminate the existing tub for a new walk-in shower. By installing a curbless shower drain, floating sink and shelving, and wall-hung toilet; Castle was able to maximize floor space! White cabinetry, Kohler fixtures, and custom recycled glass countertops were carried upstairs to connect to the main floor remodel. White and black porcelain hex floors, marble accents, and oversized white tile on the walls perfect the space for a clean and minimal look, without losing its traditional roots! We love the black accents in the bathroom, including black edge on the shower niche and pops of black hex on the floors. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

Paul Goyette Photography- Living room design, furniture and textile selection, mid century modern influence, pops of color, arc lamp
Example of a classic living room design in Chicago

Dark stained oak kitchen cabinets with wooden doors exude a timeless and sophisticated mid-century charm. The deep, dark brown tone of the cabinets adds warmth and richness to the kitchen space. The choice of oak wood not only enhances the elegance but also brings a natural, organic feel to the design.The wooden doors, carefully crafted from oak, showcase the beauty of the wood grain, creating a visually appealing texture that adds depth to the overall design. The mid-century influence is evident in the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic, capturing the essence of that era’s design philosophy.The intentional design to give a furniture feeling transforms the kitchen into a welcoming and inviting space. Each cabinet appears as a standalone piece of fine furniture, contributing to the overall ambiance of the kitchen. This approach adds a touch of sophistication and a sense of curated style, making the kitchen feel more like a thoughtfully designed living space rather than a utilitarian area. #seattlecabinets #midcentury #oakcabinets #darkstain #woodcabinets #customcabinets #kitchendesignideas

Located at the foot of the Blue Hills, the owner’s former home on the site was destroyed by a fire in 2013. The owners desired to create a new home that maintained the spirit of the former farmhouse while updating and modernizing the layout and appearance. The result is a fusion of New England farmhouse, mid century modern and Asian influences. At the center of the house is a great room with 16 foot wide doors opening to an expansive deck. A cozy screen porch adjacent to both the deck and kitchen allow for outdoor dining and relaxing. Four skylights at the center of the kitchen bring in generous natural light. A first floor master bedroom suite was designed to capture the views of the fields to the west and allow for easy accessibility in the future.

A Studio 76 kitchen with the homeowner's sense of French country style makes this space transformed. A laminate wood floor, coupled with sandstone colored distressed cabinetry in two different finishes warmed up this family kitchen. With multiple cooks in this family, two sinks divide up the traffic flow making preparing a meal convenient. A large gas range by Wolf complete with a French top gives a professional appearance. This island doubles as a kitchen table for dining in. Subway tile was contrasted in two different patterns including a herringbone installation in the cooking area's backsplash. A secondary staircase leads into the kitchen or the front foyer.

The Home The Elbert, named after a Colorado fourteener, is designed in the modern farmhouse style with an open concept that creates a welcoming feeling. The two-story entry light compliments the incredible view of Pikes Peak. The main level includes a gourmet kitchen open to the great room, dining room and study. The master suite is an owner’s delight with a separate seating area that opens to a spa-like master bathroom. Moving up a level will reveal one of JS Homes’ specialties. Utilizing often overlooked space, we bring our East Coast influences to the Colorado Springs market by using the attic for additional living space without adding another floor. This results in higher roof lines and a majestic appearance. Two bedrooms, a bathroom and a bonus room will be a delight for the kids in the family. The ten-foot ceiling in the lower-level was designed with entertaining in mind. Two bedrooms, a shared bath and an exercise room complete the ensemble. Building within Flying Horse North, we were able to incorporate unique materials including stucco, barnwood, stone and pre-finished western red cedar. JS Homes is proud to present The Elbert. The Builder Building homes for over 10 years, Jeff and Sonja Cole have been gifted to create a company that listens to our clients’ needs and desires and strives to capture those visions in their creations. Before becoming a home builder, Jeff was an interior trim carpenter specializing in new custom homes in the Denver and East Coast markets. This gave him a unique perspective on space and design. Jeff stays current with the changing plans and movements in home design by attending national shows and following contemporary design trends. Sonja takes the lead on interior design, plan review and draw coordination, in addition to being the REALTOR® who makes all our transactions possible. We are blessed to have an incredible staff of trade partners and vendors who are willing to spend time on our projects. Without them we would not be JS Homes Inc. The Interior Design This Flying Horse North lot was a perfect setting for The Elbert, a modern farmhouse. From the moment you walk through the front door, your sightline is drawn to the incredible Pikes Peak view. We sought to capture the large space by blending a mix of different materials and textures. Superior craftsmanship incorporates a mixture of materials, from knotty alder and walnut on the main level, to hickory and quarter-sawn oak elsewhere, creating a rich and rewarding feel. Luxe granites complimented by beautiful tile work add depth and movement in many areas of the house — creating a refined feeling. Working with Jessica Brown of La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries, we designed a palette of colors, patterns and rich textures to enhance and compliment the interior finishes. A mixture of grays, blues and whites provides a timeless, fresh and family friendly environment that makes The Elbert a sanctuary for entertaining and relaxing.

The enclosed arch design of the project’s masonry is one of many reflections of Japanese influence. In material selection, our choices focused on three basic criteria: design adherence, longevity and practicality. Meeting all of these specifications, the Lamarite Slate Composite shingles replicate traditional rectangular dark-gray slate; the material chosen has contours, multiple patterns and the chiseled-edge appearance of natural slate. The rock facing on the masonry façade and pillars is a manufactured stone material by Robinson Rock Company. It will age as natural stone. The ease of installation and extraordinary weather resistance made it a perfect choice. Flooring for the space is “Riverwashed Vyara” granite, which matches the rest of the home. An extra wide stairway provides an additional connection to the outdoor environment. The exterior aluminum stair structure is finished with epoxy powder paint. The color typifies the Green and Green style and the tread surfaces match the granite used throughout the home.

Lou Goodman
Bedroom - traditional bedroom idea in Boston with beige walls

The Home The Elbert, named after a Colorado fourteener, is designed in the modern farmhouse style with an open concept that creates a welcoming feeling. The two-story entry light compliments the incredible view of Pikes Peak. The main level includes a gourmet kitchen open to the great room, dining room and study. The master suite is an owner’s delight with a separate seating area that opens to a spa-like master bathroom. Moving up a level will reveal one of JS Homes’ specialties. Utilizing often overlooked space, we bring our East Coast influences to the Colorado Springs market by using the attic for additional living space without adding another floor. This results in higher roof lines and a majestic appearance. Two bedrooms, a bathroom and a bonus room will be a delight for the kids in the family. The ten-foot ceiling in the lower-level was designed with entertaining in mind. Two bedrooms, a shared bath and an exercise room complete the ensemble. Building within Flying Horse North, we were able to incorporate unique materials including stucco, barnwood, stone and pre-finished western red cedar. JS Homes is proud to present The Elbert. The Builder Building homes for over 10 years, Jeff and Sonja Cole have been gifted to create a company that listens to our clients’ needs and desires and strives to capture those visions in their creations. Before becoming a home builder, Jeff was an interior trim carpenter specializing in new custom homes in the Denver and East Coast markets. This gave him a unique perspective on space and design. Jeff stays current with the changing plans and movements in home design by attending national shows and following contemporary design trends. Sonja takes the lead on interior design, plan review and draw coordination, in addition to being the REALTOR® who makes all our transactions possible. We are blessed to have an incredible staff of trade partners and vendors who are willing to spend time on our projects. Without them we would not be JS Homes Inc. The Interior Design This Flying Horse North lot was a perfect setting for The Elbert, a modern farmhouse. From the moment you walk through the front door, your sightline is drawn to the incredible Pikes Peak view. We sought to capture the large space by blending a mix of different materials and textures. Superior craftsmanship incorporates a mixture of materials, from knotty alder and walnut on the main level, to hickory and quarter-sawn oak elsewhere, creating a rich and rewarding feel. Luxe granites complimented by beautiful tile work add depth and movement in many areas of the house — creating a refined feeling. Working with Jessica Brown of La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries, we designed a palette of colors, patterns and rich textures to enhance and compliment the interior finishes. A mixture of grays, blues and whites provides a timeless, fresh and family friendly environment that makes The Elbert a sanctuary for entertaining and relaxing.

Dark stained oak kitchen cabinets with wooden doors exude a timeless and sophisticated mid-century charm. The deep, dark brown tone of the cabinets adds warmth and richness to the kitchen space. The choice of oak wood not only enhances the elegance but also brings a natural, organic feel to the design.The wooden doors, carefully crafted from oak, showcase the beauty of the wood grain, creating a visually appealing texture that adds depth to the overall design. The mid-century influence is evident in the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic, capturing the essence of that era’s design philosophy.The intentional design to give a furniture feeling transforms the kitchen into a welcoming and inviting space. Each cabinet appears as a standalone piece of fine furniture, contributing to the overall ambiance of the kitchen. This approach adds a touch of sophistication and a sense of curated style, making the kitchen feel more like a thoughtfully designed living space rather than a utilitarian area. #seattlecabinets #midcentury #oakcabinets #darkstain #woodcabinets #customcabinets #kitchendesignideas

Lili Engelhardt Photography
Mid-sized elegant u-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Raleigh with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

A blue flat-panel kitchen is a modern and stylish culinary space that embraces the serene and inviting qualities of the color blue while incorporating a streamlined and minimalist design. The defining feature of this kitchen is the cabinetry, characterized by flat-panel doors and drawers. The cabinetry, often sleek and handleless, creates a clean and uncluttered appearance, lending a contemporary aesthetic to the room. The choice of blue as the cabinet color introduces a sense of calm and sophistication, making it a refreshing departure from more traditional kitchen colors. The shade of blue can vary from soft and muted pastels to deeper and more vibrant blues, allowing for a range of design possibilities. The color choice may be influenced by personal preferences, and it can evoke different moods, from tranquil and coastal to vibrant and energetic. Countertops in this kitchen are typically crafted from materials like quartz or solid surface, providing a sleek and easy-to-maintain workspace. The countertops may be in complementary colors, such as white, gray, or black, to balance and enhance the overall design. Backsplashes can vary from classic subway tiles to more modern and colorful options, adding an element of style and texture to the space. These may also feature blue hues, creating a cohesive and harmonious design. Flooring options include materials like light-colored tile or hardwood, which create a neutral foundation that complements the blue cabinetry while brightening the room. An area rug beneath the dining or cooking area can add a cozy and personal touch. Pendant lights with contemporary designs provide both functional lighting and a decorative element, often adding a touch of metal or glass to the design. These fixtures contribute to the modern and stylish ambiance of the kitchen. The walls are typically painted in neutral or light colors, allowing the blue cabinets to stand out and create a focal point. Natural light pouring in through windows enhances the bright and open atmosphere of the space. A blue flat-panel kitchen is a contemporary and sophisticated setting for culinary creativity and social gatherings. The harmonious fusion of sleek design, the calming influence of the color blue, and functional elements creates a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical for modern living.

The Home The Elbert, named after a Colorado fourteener, is designed in the modern farmhouse style with an open concept that creates a welcoming feeling. The two-story entry light compliments the incredible view of Pikes Peak. The main level includes a gourmet kitchen open to the great room, dining room and study. The master suite is an owner’s delight with a separate seating area that opens to a spa-like master bathroom. Moving up a level will reveal one of JS Homes’ specialties. Utilizing often overlooked space, we bring our East Coast influences to the Colorado Springs market by using the attic for additional living space without adding another floor. This results in higher roof lines and a majestic appearance. Two bedrooms, a bathroom and a bonus room will be a delight for the kids in the family. The ten-foot ceiling in the lower-level was designed with entertaining in mind. Two bedrooms, a shared bath and an exercise room complete the ensemble. Building within Flying Horse North, we were able to incorporate unique materials including stucco, barnwood, stone and pre-finished western red cedar. JS Homes is proud to present The Elbert. The Builder Building homes for over 10 years, Jeff and Sonja Cole have been gifted to create a company that listens to our clients’ needs and desires and strives to capture those visions in their creations. Before becoming a home builder, Jeff was an interior trim carpenter specializing in new custom homes in the Denver and East Coast markets. This gave him a unique perspective on space and design. Jeff stays current with the changing plans and movements in home design by attending national shows and following contemporary design trends. Sonja takes the lead on interior design, plan review and draw coordination, in addition to being the REALTOR® who makes all our transactions possible. We are blessed to have an incredible staff of trade partners and vendors who are willing to spend time on our projects. Without them we would not be JS Homes Inc. The Interior Design This Flying Horse North lot was a perfect setting for The Elbert, a modern farmhouse. From the moment you walk through the front door, your sightline is drawn to the incredible Pikes Peak view. We sought to capture the large space by blending a mix of different materials and textures. Superior craftsmanship incorporates a mixture of materials, from knotty alder and walnut on the main level, to hickory and quarter-sawn oak elsewhere, creating a rich and rewarding feel. Luxe granites complimented by beautiful tile work add depth and movement in many areas of the house — creating a refined feeling. Working with Jessica Brown of La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries, we designed a palette of colors, patterns and rich textures to enhance and compliment the interior finishes. A mixture of grays, blues and whites provides a timeless, fresh and family friendly environment that makes The Elbert a sanctuary for entertaining and relaxing.

Pictured: Blue Bottle Sutter Street, San Francisco Lincoln Lighthill Architect's design of this cafe takes its inspiration from an eclectic mix of influences, including early 20th century architecture, mid-century modernism, and 1970’s Hi-Fi style. The luminous soffit wrapping the back walls of the cafe is an ode to the curtainwall, that now ubiquitous but once glamorous building technology pioneered by the noteworthy neighbor down the street, the 1918 Willis Polk-designed Hallidie Building at 130 Sutter, the first structure in the U.S. with a glass curtain wall facade. The small steel I-beams that adorn the soffit and give structure to the cafe’s furnishings reference another key moment in the history of the curtainwall from 3,000 miles away and 35 years later, Mies van de Rohe’s Seagram Building in Manhattan, which utilizes these steel shapes for both structure and decoration. The cafe’s curtain wall performs multiple functions: its perforated, frosted acrylic skin diffuses light and filters sound, which is trapped in the gap between it and the soft acoustic paneling behind. Lighting above and below provides ambient, task and accent lighting. The furnishings are made from Tricoya, a medium-density fiber board (MDF) made from sustainable wood sources and coated in a no-VOC, natural oil finish. The stainless steel countertops and aforementioned I-beams are made from 90% recycled materials. The marble customer tables reference the grandeur of the neighborhood’s historic buildings and provide a counterpoint to the otherwise restrained material palate. The cafe’s last and most significant influence appears as you approach the service bar. Blue Bottle’s founder is an audiophile and fan of classic analog stereo equipment. Riffing on the perforated theme of the curtain wall and channeling our inner James Freeman, the outer surface of the bar is covered in a CNC-milled pattern of chamfered holes which expose a dark layer below, imbuing the café with a bit of stereophonic speaker cabinet style.

This luxury finished basement showcases a refined modern-contemporary design with warm natural materials, clean architectural lines, and intentional craftsmanship throughout, blending high-end residential construction with upscale hospitality and performance-driven spaces. The custom basement bar features solid wood cabinetry in a natural oak or white oak finish, paired with sleek matte black stone countertops that provide durability, contrast, and a timeless modern aesthetic. Vertical slat wall paneling runs behind the bar and shelving, adding texture, rhythm, and architectural depth while reinforcing a Scandinavian-inspired modern warmth that elevates the space beyond a traditional basement remodel. Floating wood shelves with integrated stemware racks create an open, airy feel while displaying glassware, bar accessories, and decorative objects in brushed brass, smoked glass, and neutral ceramics, tying together modern organic and mid-century influences. Dual glass-front beverage refrigerators with stainless steel trim anchor the wet bar, offering functional cold storage while reinforcing a high-end entertaining environment ideal for hosting, relaxing, or daily use. The black backsplash and counter surfaces ground the lighter wood tones, creating balance, contrast, and visual sophistication consistent with luxury interior design trends. Recessed ceiling lighting and flush-mount fixtures provide soft, even illumination, while accent lighting highlights textures, shelving, and materials without overpowering the space. The basement flooring appears to be wide-plank engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl plank in a light natural wood tone, delivering warmth, durability, and moisture resistance ideal for below-grade construction. Adjacent to the bar, the custom home gym is designed with a sleek, performance-focused aesthetic featuring rubber flooring with integrated turf training lanes, high-contrast white line markings, and commercial-grade fitness equipment. Matte black walls and ceilings create a bold, immersive workout environment, enhanced by linear LED strip lighting that adds a modern, architectural edge while providing functional task lighting. The gym includes power racks, cable machines, free weights, storage hooks, and wall-mounted accessories, emphasizing organization, efficiency, and intentional layout planning. Dark finishes, industrial textures, and minimalist detailing create a cohesive modern luxury feel that mirrors high-end boutique fitness studios while remaining integrated into the residential design language of the home. Throughout the basement, clean drywall finishes, crisp trim work, and concealed mechanical systems reflect thoughtful construction planning and attention to detail from a skilled general contractor. This basement remodel exemplifies custom home building excellence, combining entertainment, wellness, and design-forward living into a cohesive lower-level retreat. The overall style blends modern, contemporary, organic modern, Scandinavian, and subtle industrial influences, resulting in a timeless yet bold space that adds significant lifestyle value and resale appeal. Premium materials, intentional lighting, custom millwork, and durable finishes make this basement ideal for homeowners seeking elevated design, luxury construction, functional entertaining spaces, and a seamless extension of the main living areas. Designed and built with craftsmanship, precision, and modern aesthetics in mind, this basement reflects the highest standards of interior design, home renovation, custom construction, and luxury residential building.