The exterior of this home fits the style of mid-century modernism like a glove. Featuring a wooden and cable railing on the upper deck, this expansive addition truly catches your eye and anchors the home. Recognition: ARC Awards 2016 Best Addition

This 100 year old, Federalist style home in the East End of Pittsburgh, was due for an update. The house sported original cabinetry and plumbing. The project included the entire house, to some degree, and some rooms, the kitchen, for instance, was a total gut job. Engineered hardwood was added to the rooms where old tar linoleum was installed, allowing for the original red oak to compliment these rooms easily. The master bathroom had previously undergone a minor remodel and I updated the entire house with new, mostly saturated, paint color by Benjamin Moore. My client had quite a nice collection of Baker furniture and upscale area rugs, and I took my cues from those pieces that were incorporated within the new design. My client has increased the value of his home substantially, and has recently upgraded the small exterior courtyard area with lovely perennials and new pavers and a fire pit; elements that are typically not found in a small city lot. The newly rennovated courtyard is a gathering spot for many outdoor parties that my client is famous for his hosting.

Living room Walls: Constellation AF-540, ben, Eggshell Trim: Frostine AF-5, ben, Semi-Gloss

Adding to the Mid Century modern theme is a variety of stainless steel appliances and plenty of counter space. For instance, the kitchen features a 28″ wide and 9″deep MR stainless sink with a Kraus faucet. Next to that is a Samsung range and microwave, a Bosch dishwasher and the aforementioned Beko refrigerator. “The dishwasher features a Semihandmade cover panel and is located to the right of the range,” Brian explains. He adds: “We also removed the pantry that was on one end and used that space for the refrigerator, adding more counter space that way.” Regarding the Corian counters, Brian notes that “we added about 50″ of linear counter top. In a smaller NYC kitchen a little goes a long way!” Complementing the look as well is a beveled subway tile backsplash and poured concrete flooring.

This client had a bathroom with a great layout but it was outdated and there were some things that never made sense. For instance, the entry is double doors facing the back wall of the shower - which originally had no light. Simply adding recessed lighting made the whole space more welcoming. The dated under-mount tub was replaced with a gorgeous freestanding tub. We added film to the window by the tub for privacy. Two beautiful sliding glass doors now hang in the new shower with marble accents. His & hers vanity areas each have ample storage below and on the towers - topped with stunning fixtures, a uniquely formed sink and tile mirrors.

A traditional 1926 cottage was transformed into a stunning, contemporary home. The focal point from both inside and out is a 3-story floating wood and stainless staircase, showcased by oversized windows and dramatic lighting. Walnut cabinetry with a distinct stain and natural slab surfaces offset the metals used throughout – Including at the interior and exterior of the fireplace. Reclaimed wood floors pay homage to the industrial area the home is situated in. In designing this home restrictions set forth by the building department were key. For instance, in order for the project to be considered a remodel the existing 8’ tall perimeter walls had to remain in place. The homeowners desperately wanted 9’ tall ceilings, so with crafty engineering and framing we were able to embellish the existing wall framing to achieve the added height. Clearstory windows allow much needed light into the spaces and creates the illusion of spaciousness, while maintaining wall areas for key furnishings and artwork. Every inch of space maximizes storage throughout the 2,600 square foot home. A cabinet for shoe storage immediately inside the front door also serves as a key component at the staircase and provides a platform to highlight sculptural artwork. Unique products and details, such as a metal link shower curtain and custom built-in guest beds with strategically placed outlets and horizontal surfaces to allow for electronics to be close at hand, elevate this home to the next level.

jlbrennan
Living room - large eclectic formal and open concept dark wood floor living room idea with green walls, a standard fireplace, a wood fireplace surround and no tv

Driftwood Custom Home was constructed on vacant property between two existing houses in Chemainus, BC. This type of project is a form of sustainable land development known as an Infill Build. These types of building lots are often small. However, careful planning and clever uses of design allowed us to maximize the space. This home has 2378 square feet with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms. Add in a living room on the main floor, a separate den upstairs, and a full laundry room and this custom home still feels spacious! The kitchen is bright and inviting. With white cabinets, countertops and backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, the feel of this space is timeless. Similarly, the master bathroom design features plenty of must-haves. For instance, the bathroom includes a shower with matching tile to the vanity backsplash, a double floating vanity, heated tiled flooring, and tiled walls. Together with a flush mount fireplace in the master bedroom, this is an inviting oasis of space.

This 100 year old, Federalist style home in the East End of Pittsburgh, was due for an update. The house sported original cabinetry and plumbing. The project included the entire house, to some degree, and some rooms, the kitchen, for instance, was a total gut job. Engineered hardwood was added to the rooms where old tar linoleum was installed, allowing for the original red oak to compliment these rooms easily. The master bathroom had previously undergone a minor remodel and I updated the entire house with new, mostly saturated, paint color by Benjamin Moore. My client had quite a nice collection of Baker furniture and upscale area rugs, and I took my cues from those pieces that were incorporated within the new design. My client has increased the value of his home substantially, and has recently upgraded the small exterior courtyard area with lovely perennials and new pavers and a fire pit; elements that are typically not found in a small city lot. The newly rennovated courtyard is a gathering spot for many outdoor parties that my client is famous for his hosting.

Driftwood Custom Home was constructed on vacant property between two existing houses in Chemainus, BC. This type of project is a form of sustainable land development known as an Infill Build. These types of building lots are often small. However, careful planning and clever uses of design allowed us to maximize the space. This home has 2378 square feet with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms. Add in a living room on the main floor, a separate den upstairs, and a full laundry room and this custom home still feels spacious! The kitchen is bright and inviting. With white cabinets, countertops and backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, the feel of this space is timeless. Similarly, the master bathroom design features plenty of must-haves. For instance, the bathroom includes a shower with matching tile to the vanity backsplash, a double floating vanity, heated tiled flooring, and tiled walls. Together with a flush mount fireplace in the master bedroom, this is an inviting oasis of space.

Transitional kitchen photo in Philadelphia

Driftwood Custom Home was constructed on vacant property between two existing houses in Chemainus, BC. This type of project is a form of sustainable land development known as an Infill Build. These types of building lots are often small. However, careful planning and clever uses of design allowed us to maximize the space. This home has 2378 square feet with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms. Add in a living room on the main floor, a separate den upstairs, and a full laundry room and this custom home still feels spacious! The kitchen is bright and inviting. With white cabinets, countertops and backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, the feel of this space is timeless. Similarly, the master bathroom design features plenty of must-haves. For instance, the bathroom includes a shower with matching tile to the vanity backsplash, a double floating vanity, heated tiled flooring, and tiled walls. Together with a flush mount fireplace in the master bedroom, this is an inviting oasis of space.

Driftwood Custom Home was constructed on vacant property between two existing houses in Chemainus, BC. This type of project is a form of sustainable land development known as an Infill Build. These types of building lots are often small. However, careful planning and clever uses of design allowed us to maximize the space. This home has 2378 square feet with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms. Add in a living room on the main floor, a separate den upstairs, and a full laundry room and this custom home still feels spacious! The kitchen is bright and inviting. With white cabinets, countertops and backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, the feel of this space is timeless. Similarly, the master bathroom design features plenty of must-haves. For instance, the bathroom includes a shower with matching tile to the vanity backsplash, a double floating vanity, heated tiled flooring, and tiled walls. Together with a flush mount fireplace in the master bedroom, this is an inviting oasis of space.

Driftwood Custom Home was constructed on vacant property between two existing houses in Chemainus, BC. This type of project is a form of sustainable land development known as an Infill Build. These types of building lots are often small. However, careful planning and clever uses of design allowed us to maximize the space. This home has 2378 square feet with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms. Add in a living room on the main floor, a separate den upstairs, and a full laundry room and this custom home still feels spacious! The kitchen is bright and inviting. With white cabinets, countertops and backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, the feel of this space is timeless. Similarly, the master bathroom design features plenty of must-haves. For instance, the bathroom includes a shower with matching tile to the vanity backsplash, a double floating vanity, heated tiled flooring, and tiled walls. Together with a flush mount fireplace in the master bedroom, this is an inviting oasis of space.

Driftwood Custom Home was constructed on vacant property between two existing houses in Chemainus, BC. This type of project is a form of sustainable land development known as an Infill Build. These types of building lots are often small. However, careful planning and clever uses of design allowed us to maximize the space. This home has 2378 square feet with three bedrooms and three full bathrooms. Add in a living room on the main floor, a separate den upstairs, and a full laundry room and this custom home still feels spacious! The kitchen is bright and inviting. With white cabinets, countertops and backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, the feel of this space is timeless. Similarly, the master bathroom design features plenty of must-haves. For instance, the bathroom includes a shower with matching tile to the vanity backsplash, a double floating vanity, heated tiled flooring, and tiled walls. Together with a flush mount fireplace in the master bedroom, this is an inviting oasis of space.

Farmhouse kitchen with Shaker style doors & plain inset face frames. Includes touches of reclaimed hemlock wood, and rustic barn beams.
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized country u-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Philadelphia with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

Eat-in kitchen - coastal galley dark wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen idea in Orange County with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and black countertops

French swing doors are the epitome of classic door design, offering a timeless aesthetic that exudes romance. In this sitting room, French doors were selected to impart a sense of sophistication, ideal for entertaining guests and creating a welcoming ambiance. Unlike sliding doors, which move horizontally, French swing doors operate with an inward or outward motion. In this instance, the doors swing outward, enhancing the room's grandeur from within. This approach is an excellent alternative when pocketing doors is not feasible due to architectural constraints. Another notable feature is the fabulous fixed sidelites, which create a more expansive view from the inside out. These large side panels, positioned adjacent to the door, bring in additional light and serve as a striking visual accent. The fixed sidelites perfectly complement the French swing doors in this project, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and the sense of openness.