French doors open to cedar bead board ceilings that line a enclosed screened porch area. All natural materials, colors and textures are used to infuse nature and indoor living into one. Buras Photography

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Enter the realm of "Zen Tranquility," a bathroom renovation that embraces the serene beauty of nature. The focal point of this project is a captivating bamboo cabinet, bringing an aura of eco-friendly elegance and tranquility to the space. The double shower system promises an indulgent bathing experience, elevating relaxation to new heights. Surrounding the tub, pebble tiles create a harmonious natural escape, infusing the bathroom with a touch of spa-inspired luxury. Immerse yourself in the "Zen Tranquility" and discover a space that soothes the senses and rejuvenates the soul.

Modern white art infused loft space with floods of natural light. Photography by Sian Richards http://sianrichards.ca/#/page/b50f/sian-richards-photography-home/ Art by Art Squared https://art-squared.com

Antique French country side sink with a whimsical limestone brass faucet. This Southern Mediterranean kitchen was designed with antique limestone elements by Ancient Surfaces. Time to infuse a small piece of Italy in your own home.

Perfectly situated near our finest theme parks in Orlando, this teen girls room is infused with all her favorite things - roller coasters, bright color and elements of fun!

For this young family who wanted to reimagine their 1950s home, we created an open-concept floor plan with vaulted ceilings to highlight Puget Sound views. Our design blended mid-century roots with modern functionality, infusing character and warmth. This kitchen features an elegant island with seating, geometric backsplash tiles, clean lines, and mid-century lighting. The thoughtful layout offers plenty of storage, making it perfect for gatherings.

That's what I'm talkin about.
Mid-sized elegant single-wall medium tone wood floor and brown floor enclosed kitchen photo in Bridgeport with an undermount sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

Patio kitchen plans these days require the ability to incorporate high-tech, modern appliances into rustic, timeless – even ancient-looking – outdoor design styles. You can see this juxtaposition pulled off perfectly in this outdoor kitchen by Outdoor Homescapes of Houston. “A smart patio kitchen plan requires not only a balance of the new and old,” says Outdoor Homescapes owner Wayne Franks, “but a blending of new elements – like an outdoor kitchen – with the existing home and outdoor living features like a pool, hardscaping or landscaping.” In this case, explains Franks, the existing 25-by-15-foot pool had a craggy edge of moss rock boulders, plus a spa and firepit faced with a rough Scabos splitface travertine. “The overall look was rustic and naturalistic,” says Franks, “so we of course wanted the new outdoor kitchen island to match.” Hence the 14-foot-long outdoor kitchen island with a raised bar, also faced in the Scabos splitface travertine and topped with a Normandy granite countertop. The hardscaping around it is Kool Deck® textured concrete. “People used to shy away from busy textures in outside patio kitchen plans, but now they’re embracing them,” notes Franks. “They’re increasingly attracted to the beautiful imperfections and irregularities of nature – there’s more of an authenticity and character to it.” Now, for the high-tech part: A Memphis wood grill. Memphis Wood Fire pellet grills are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to infuse amazing, rich flavor and for their versatility (they can grill, bake, smoke, slow cook, braise and barbecue). This premier model, the Memphis Pro 304, features 562 square inches of cooking space and a three-in-one cooking system (high-temperature grill, low-and-low smoker and true-convection-oven roasting and baking). It also has an intuitive Intelligent Temperature Control (see the display panel to the left of the grill) that can be set for cooking and internal temperature. A programmable food probe tells you when the internal temperature is reached and drops the grill down to a programmed lower temperature to keep the food warm till serving. The dual-fan convection system, with reliable metal blades, circulates heat evenly for tender, juicy results. Double-walled and sealed construction of 304 stainless steel allows for optimum heat retention and consistent temperatures in all weather conditions. A direct-flame “flavorizer” insert delivers the added flavor of a seared finish. Outdoor Homescapes also added a mount sink with a custom oil-rubbed bronze faucet by Moen and the following RCS stainless steel accessories: a pull-out trash door, a countertop trash chute, dual horizontal grill utensil drawers and a swing-out storage door. “At first, you’d think all this technology and the smooth, modern stainless steel would fight with the rustic look of the rough-faced stone in outdoor patio kitchen plans,” says Franks. “But it actually provides some visual rest from all the rugged textures and busyness.” Serving a similar function is the smooth, polished Scabos travertine tile used for the pool coping and firepit ledge. “It’s a perfect environment for the client to entertain business associates,” says Franks. “He’s very happy with the old-meets-new approach, and so are we.” More patio kitchen plans can be found at Outdoor Homescapes of Houston’s website, at www.outdoorhomescapes.com

Patio kitchen plans these days require the ability to incorporate high-tech, modern appliances into timeless – even ancient-looking – environments. You can see this juxtaposition pulled off perfectly in this outdoor kitchen by Outdoor Homescapes of Houston. “A smart patio kitchen plan requires not only a balance of the new and old,” says Outdoor Homescapes owner Wayne Franks, “but a blending of new elements – like an outdoor kitchen – with the existing home and outdoor living features like a pool, hardscaping or landscaping.” In this case, explains Franks, the existing 25-by-15-foot pool had a craggy edge of moss rock boulders, plus a spa and firepit faced with a rough Scabos splitface travertine. “The overall look was rustic and naturalistic,” says Franks, “so we of course wanted the new outdoor kitchen island to match.” Hence the 14-foot-long outdoor kitchen island with a raised bar, also faced in the Scabos splitface travertine and topped with a Normandy granite countertop. The hardscaping around it is Kool Deck® textured concrete. “People used to shy away from busy textures in outside patio kitchen plans, but now they’re embracing them,” notes Franks. “They’re increasingly attracted to the beautiful imperfections and irregularities of nature – there’s more of an authenticity and character to it.” Now, for the high-tech part: A Traeger wood pellet grill. Traeger grills are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to infuse amazing, rich flavor and for their versatility (they can grill, bake, smoke, slow cook, braise and barbecue). This premier model, the Memphis Pro 304, features 562 square inches of cooking space and a three-in-one cooking system (high-temperature grill, low-and-low smoker and true-convection-oven roasting and baking). It also has an intuitive Intelligent Temperature Control (see the display panel to the left of the grill) that can be set for cooking and internal temperature. A programmable food probe tells you when the internal temperature is reached and drops the grill down to a programmed lower temperature to keep the food warm till serving. The dual-fan convection system, with reliable metal blades, circulates heat evenly for tender, juicy results. Double-walled and sealed construction of 304 stainless steel allows for optimum heat retention and consistent temperatures in all weather conditions. A direct-flame “flavorizer” insert delivers the added flavor of a seared finish. Outdoor Homescapes also added a mount sink with a custom oil-rubbed bronze faucet by Moen and the following RCS stainless steel accessories: a pull-out trash door, a countertop trash chute, dual horizontal grill utensil drawers and a swing-out storage door. “At first, you’d think all this technology and the smooth, modern stainless steel would fight with the rustic look of the rough-faced stone in outdoor patio kitchen plans,” says Franks. “But it actually provides some visual rest from all the rugged textures and busyness.” Serving a similar function is the smooth, polished Scabos travertine tile used for the pool coping and firepit ledge. “It’s a perfect environment for the client to entertain business associates,” says Franks. “He’s very happy with the old-meets-new approach, and so are we.” More patio kitchen plans can be found at Outdoor Homescapes of Houston’s website, at www.outdoorhomescapes.com

Inquire About Our Design Services What we did: Outlined the furniture plan for the entire condo and then made sure everything came to life the way it was supposed to on paper. Reworked the color scheme for the space and repainted: We refreshed her kitchen by selecting a vibrant color backsplash. The peanut butter colored walls in the office room just had to go. Nobody could work in there! Custom designed the bedding in her master bedroom. Installed Hunter Douglas window treatments, and custom drapery that provided her with stylish privacy. Sourced all art and accessories for her space. We infused her amazing cultural collection with some added chicness. What I LOVE: The seagulls in her office. This was a perfect Etsy find. Those nightstands in her bedroom - can you say AH-Mazing! Her view. I was not personally responsible for that, but to work in that space was breathtaking! Rashaanda said that her family loves her space and they really enjoyed the wine that I had delivered, just in time for Thanksgiving! Marcel Page Photograpy

Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac near the beautiful Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve, this 1907 Parnassus Heights home belongs to an active couple with a young daughter. They had dreams of transforming their home into a comforting refuge, equally equipped to whip up cocktails for guests, welcome them home after a good surf, or host their aging parents. We touched just about every space in this home, including the kitchen, hallway, dining room, bedrooms, and bathrooms. In addition, we updated the basement hall that leads to the outside, transforming it into a more presentable entry for guests, and created an enclosed storage space. Given the age of the home and its location on a hillside, precise structural work was involved to renew the home’s integrity. In the kitchen, which was originally dark and cramped, we made dramatic changes. We expanded the kitchen’s footprint, designing it to capture the expansive city views and create the indoor-outdoor living space they had always wanted. A large island with custom concrete countertops, a custom banquette, and beautiful red oak cabinets are just a few of the standout features in this soothing space. The rest of this home’s spaces received equally thoughtful planning: floor-to-ceiling bedroom wardrobes with integrated lighting, custom built-in elements, carefully layered lighting for ambiance and drama, a steam shower in the primary bathroom, and the addition of skylights to bring in natural light. This home is now an inviting, purposeful space perfectly tailored to infusing joy and ease into their everyday lives.

Situated along the East River, this one bedroom, two bathroom apartment serves as an oasis for the Upper East Side home owner with carefully curated detail and breathtaking views. Her love of open, feng shui-inspired design set the stage for this complete apartment renovation. Upon entering the space, guests are greeted by an open, airy, and light-filled Foyer that was doubled in size for this transformation. The black metal wall glazing at the end of the foyer provides framed views of the teak wood dining table, black shell Eames dining chairs with walnut Eiffel legs, and a glamorous brass chandelier. It also gives guests a first hint at the industrial accents to anticipate throughout. Natural finished wide plank wood flooring leads guests into a contemporary open floor plan. Previously a cramped Dining Room and dated Kitchen, the space was opened up by removing dividing walls — transforming it into the perfect space for dinner parties and socializing. Featuring crisp white cabinetry with glass inserts and stainless steel appliances, the Kitchen is finished off with polished chrome hardware and fixtures to add a bit of sparkle throughout. Marble slab countertops with a waterfall edge and industrial globe pendants provide a stunning framed backdrop for the hand-carved mango wood counter stools. Just beyond the Kitchen; the Living Room warmly welcomes guests with a luxurious Milan shadow grey velvet sectional atop a plush ivory Moroccan area rug. This pairing is surrounded by luxurious accents like custom marble window sills, a cognac leather lounge chair, and an emerald green velvet ottoman, both detailed with sophisticated brass accents. Other moments of glamour are infused throughout, including a mirrored tray and accessories that sit on top of an industrial teak and black metal framed coffee table. The apartment’s luxury components are juxtaposed with unique custom framed art, curated and placed to speak to the personality of the home owner. The powder room is another nod to the client’s love of the modern, industrial aesthetic with black grouted subway tile, a black metal trimmed mirror, sconces and stunning Aztec-inspired black and white painted cement tile. No luxury design is complete without creation of spa-like places of respite. The master bathroom walls are clad in white quartz with a textured chevron marble feature wall. The Carrara marble hexagon floors provide a luxurious platform beneath the home owner’s feet as she unwinds with a glass of wine in the spa bathtub made for deep soaking.

Faced with extensive water damage to their home, the Patel’s turned to Cantoni designer Andrea Petor to infuse new life into their family’s beloved weekend retreat in Montgomery, Texas. Balancing the client’s minimalist wants with their love of hosting, Andrea created a cohesive design to accommodate their frequent guests and large extended family. Beginning with the kitchen remodel, Andrea worked with the Patel’s to identify the best layout for the space, understanding it would be used regularly for entertaining. To maximize storage space, Andrea designed custom floor to ceiling cabinetry finished in high gloss white lacquer. She selected Miele optic white appliances to enhance the sleek design. Andrea had a custom dining table built into the island to provide ample seating and ensure the entire family could enjoy meals together. The kitchen’s monochromatic color palette was carried throughout the interiors allowing the home’s beautiful waterfront views to take center stage. Adding richness and texture to each room, Andrea selected sculptural, modern furnishings to complete the space and bring the Patel’s vision to life.

We infused jewel tones and fun art into this Austin home. Project designed by Sara Barney’s Austin interior design studio BANDD DESIGN. They serve the entire Austin area and its surrounding towns, with an emphasis on Round Rock, Lake Travis, West Lake Hills, and Tarrytown. For more about BANDD DESIGN, click here: https://bandddesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://bandddesign.com/austin-artistic-home/

We infused fresh, clean lines into the interiors of these long and narrow bathrooms. Project designed by Courtney Thomas Design in La Cañada. Serving Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, and Altadena. For more about Courtney Thomas Design, click here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/portfolio/shepherds-lane-la-canada-residence/

The existing makeup of this living room was enhanced with the infusion of eye-catching colors, fabrics, texture, and patterns. Project designed by Courtney Thomas Design in La Cañada. Serving Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, and Altadena. For more about Courtney Thomas Design, click here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/portfolio/southern-belle-interior-san-marino/

Enter the realm of "Zen Tranquility," a bathroom renovation that embraces the serene beauty of nature. The focal point of this project is a captivating bamboo cabinet, bringing an aura of eco-friendly elegance and tranquility to the space. The double shower system promises an indulgent bathing experience, elevating relaxation to new heights. Surrounding the tub, pebble tiles create a harmonious natural escape, infusing the bathroom with a touch of spa-inspired luxury. Immerse yourself in the "Zen Tranquility" and discover a space that soothes the senses and rejuvenates the soul.

Contemporary powder room by Heather Segreti
Example of a trendy powder room design in Toronto