THE SETUP This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities. Design Objectives: Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment. Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests. Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks. Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities. Design Challenges: Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting. Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views. Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience. AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment. Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space. Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration. Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers. Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience). AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system. Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access. Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating. Final Thoughts: The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone. This is what the room looked like prior to the theater remodel. It was a catch all bonus room very centered around the kids, and not the entire family.

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Coming up with new ideas is always challenging, but the challenge seems even more difficult to overcome when the starting point is quite limiting. In the case of this residential project, the starting point was an existing foundation, that needed to be used for the future building. Therefore, the footprint of the house needed to remain the same, however, the functions needed adjustments since the requirements and priorities of the owners changed in the previous years. Another aspect that involved limitations but in a totally different sense was the setting - a beautiful place near a lake, surrounded by wild vegetation - and our challenge was to integrate the house while emphasizing the view. We managed to do so by using large glass areas towards the lake, by laying the house properly on the sloped ground and by the use of materials. Because we didn't want to interfere with the all-natural vibe of the surroundings, we preferred using all-natural materials: wood as a structural material as well as an interior and exterior wall finishing, natural stone on both façades and pavements, ceramic roofing. The result now peacefully lays near the lake, a discrete presence, while hosting the life of a family and all the peace of mind one can get.

Installed Tiger Cool Everglade Fescue Pro by Tiger Turf. What is Tiger Cool? Created by Tencate, a worldwide innovator of space-age yarns for NASA and Boeing, TigerCool® yarns are engineered with heat reflective color pigments and advanced U.V. inhibitors that reduce surface temperatures. A series of solar panel tests indicate that artificial grass featuring TigerCool® technology successfully reduces turf temperatures by 30% and up to 17 degrees! That’s a difference that you can feel. Don’t let the heat interfere with your life. TigerCool® makes any outdoor event a cool and pleasant experience. It’s perfect for any front yard, backyard, commercial property, public park, or municipality. Like all of our turf products, it’s safe for children and is pet-friendly! Photo by Greg Hawks

This custom-build banquette was created onsite by our team to lower production costs. With the direction of J Peterson Design, no detail was left unattended. The shaker panels are just the right height so that the continuous baseboard doesn't interfere with the design. Integrated outlets for easy electronic charging and under-seating access panel to ensure local code-compliance. This banquette is not only functional but it's our favorite banquette done thus far because it was done correctly from the start. Did I mention the seating height is ideal?

A small, shaded seating area behind the garage, filled with shrubs, a palm, vines, ferns. Outside the photo, to the right a hammock is hidden. It's the perfect space for a snooze! The low retaining wall snakes along the back property line, and acts as a giant raised bed. It also keeps the floor free from foliar interference, and - oddly enough - makes a small space feel larger. It's a great trick I use a lot.

Custom wine room designed, fabricated and installed with clients rustic tones in mind. Knotty alder, full glass entry with a viewing window from the adjacent room immediately details a stone, cave-like entry into the wine room. Individual bottles, display, bulk storage and presentation shelves adorn this inviting space. Displays are all accented with LED lights on a dimmable transformer. Unique ceiling and wall sconce light fixtures provide just enough light to easily identify all labels. A wine cellar cooling system is hidden in a dead corner of the racking so as not to interfere with the décor or capacity. The used wine barrel offer the perfect surface to set a glass down and enjoy the space.

Willie & Leslie of Barrington Hills loved the location of their home. Its breathtaking views overlooked a wooded backyard and a captivating lake. They didn’t want to move, but they needed more space. But the house was missing that big family room where everyone could gather, relax and converse, and the house was completely cut off visually from the beautiful outdoor view right outside! They knew what they wanted meant building an addition to their home. They began searching the internet and came across Advance Design Studio, and after browsing through project after project and reading one outstanding client review after another, they were sold on Advance Design. Additionally, they loved Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” process and felt confident that it would allow the Design/Build company to easily coordinate the multiple projects they wanted to complete all at one time. Willie and Leslie immediately set up a meeting with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Claudia Pop. When the meeting ended, they were sure that Advance Design were the right people and the right approach for their project. "Establishing a direction and a budget is always key in project of this size," Todd said. "This house was screaming for a family room and it didn't have one. Ultimately, it's about working together towards the same goal of a beautiful functional addition." The project consisted of a significant family room addition with an extraordinary vaulted ceiling and floor to ceiling fireplace, a guest suite renovation with a luxury bath, a garage addition, and an adjoining outdoor patio renovation complete with a fantastic built in grilling station. The main goal was to add comfort and space to the existing home that would last their lifetime, and finally allow them to capture the amazing view of the backyard and lake that they never could really enjoy previously. Willie, Leslie and Claudia paid special attention to designing the space to make sure that the footprint of the room did not interfere with the views. Floor to ceiling Pella windows were incorporated into a spectacular window wall to provide plenty of natural light. Vaulted ceilings gave the room a bigger feel and the stunning floor to ceiling masonry fireplace was designed giving the room a rustic, comfortable feel of a Colorado Lodge. Barnwood doors and exposed wooden beams accentuate the crackling fireplace and family gathering space. An oversized statement chandelier bathes the space in soft light once the sun sets and compliments the exposed wood and fireplace perfectly. “It simple elegant and beautiful,” Designer Claudia Pop said. “It is a great family room that captures the views perfectly. They love the fireplace, the barndoors and the openness of the space we designed for the whole family now to enjoy.” And when warm weather beckons, the outdoor patio is a terrific place to spend an evening. The family now enjoys fall nights in front of their outdoor fireplace overlooking the quiet lake. Dekton Trillium Quartz counters tops adorn an amazing grilling bar. Nearly indestructible, they are the only manufactured stone product designed exclusively to withstand high heat in summer and extreme cold temperatures in winter. The guest bath renovation makes Willie and Leslie’s friends and family feel like they are staying at a 5-star hotel. Carlisle colored Maple cabinets from Medallion make a roomy dual vanity more than adequate with plenty of space to get ready for the day after a peaceful night’s sleep. Cambria Quartz countertops are durable and elegant, while contrasting the neutral cabinets flawlessly. Heated flooring from Warmly Yours is the cherry on top for this cozy guest bath. All the projects turned out better than they even imagined. Willie and Leslie now have a spacious family room with even better views of the lake and woods, a much larger garage, a fantastic relaxing outdoor patio, and a guest bath that makes it almost impossible to get the guest to leave after their stay. Are you thinking about a remodeling project? Talk to the experts at Advance Design about the renovation of your dreams. Now is the perfect time to renovate. Check out other amazing projects here. With “Common Sense Remodeling”, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-836-2600 or schedule an appointment to talk with us about your kitchen remodeling project, or any other home renovation you are planning. Our talented team can help you design and build the new space you’ve been dreaming about.

A dated and small master bathroom was remodeled and updated. A pocket door was installed to minimize intrusion to the space allowing extra space for a larger vanity without interference from a door. Dimensional subway tile with marble accents were used on the walls and a sliding glass shower enclosure on industrial rods maximize space and add style to this small master bath. A monochromatic color scheme helps the bathroom feel more spacious.

The challenge was to create a modern, minimalist structure that did not interfere with the natural setting but rather seemed nestled in and part of the landscape while blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. Special Features and Details: • wood floor, ceiling and exterior deck all run in the same direction drawing the eye toward the water view below • valence encompassing the living space aligns with the face of the loft floor and conceals window shades and uplighting. • pocket doors are flush with the ceiling adding to the feeling of one room flowing into the other when the doors are open • ample storage tucks into the walls unobtrusively • baseboards are set in, flush with the walls separated by a channel detail. • deck appears to float, creating a sense of weightlessness. This detail repeats at the bedside tables and bathroom vanity • obscured glass window in shower provides light and privacy

Custom wine room designed, fabricated and installed with clients rustic tones in mind. Knotty alder, full glass entry with a viewing window from the adjacent room immediately details a stone, cave-like entry into the wine room. Individual bottles, display, bulk storage and presentation shelves adorn this inviting space. Displays are all accented with LED lights on a dimmable transformer. Unique ceiling and wall sconce light fixtures provide just enough light to easily identify all labels. A wine cellar cooling system is hidden in a dead corner of the racking so as not to interfere with the décor or capacity. The used wine barrel offer the perfect surface to set a glass down and enjoy the space.

A groundbreaking residential construction project in Connecticut, executed by HSL Builders, challenges the stereotypical notion of modern architecture as a mere "box." The innovative design, spearheaded by architect George Dumitru, revolves around a dynamic pinwheel concept. The central atrium serves as the project's focal point, with four cantilevered second-story bedrooms creating a visually centrifugal effect. Transparency is a key element, evident in the glazed atrium and open floor plan, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Embracing Connecticut's natural landscape, the design minimizes interference to maximize picturesque vistas. This collaborative effort, led by HSL Builders, showcases inventive design elements that go beyond the traditional, redefining the essence of modern residential construction.

Cellar designed, built, and installed by Mark King Cellar capacity is 1,800+ bottles on racking, not counting the cases on the floor. Cypress wood racking with PA Cherry stain. Lower soffit height required offset height racking Fluted columns conceal water and drain lines. Concealed LED strip lights illuminate angled bottle display row. Bottle pillow rails can be used to display bottles at an angle, with labels visible. Pillow rails do not interfere with standard bottle storage.

This 50 square foot bathroom features a corner shower and a "L" shaped furniture styled vanity. LED lighting concealed underneath the vanity is activated by a motion sensor located near the bathroom door. The pocket door entrance into the bathroom eliminates door interference with the nearby frame-less shower enclosure.

roof surface was dropped so roof would not interfere with existing windows above photo by Tim Winters
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless entryway remodel in Louisville

The placement of the windows made laying out the kitchen a little tricky, but our designer came through with flying colors - the homeowners love their kitchen. The clear glass pendants were chosen so that they did not visually interfere with the island hood.

Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

To better purpose the awkward space in between the kitchen and the entry, we chose to get rid of a door and put a pocket door that did not interfere with the passage space.

We all know how paint can influence the feeling of a space. Did you know that it can also influence the architecture? This project is a lesson in composition as it refers to paint and interior design. The correct balance of vertical and horizontal lines creates a visual path that will direct the eye to a particular point of interest. Without good composition, the resulting chaos interferes with the way a story is told. Through the use of decorative artistry, we were able to take advantage of the strong architecture in this space to define these visual lines. It is all about identifying where to start and where to stop.