This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

One of the focal points of the new kitchen design is the new, octagonal island made of slate stained cabinets with a Milan grey quartz countertop. For contrast, the wall cabinets have a chestnut stain with a terra brown quartz countertop. Our clients did not want to use recessed lighting in their kitchen, so we designed a custom track system and combined it with pendant lighting in other areas. For more formal family meals, we built a custom banquette that the children can also use for doing homework. The homeowner’s favorite part of the kitchen is the floor to ceiling cabinetry that offers loads of storage space. The children in the family are very active and involved in many activities, but this home was not built to handle their comings and goings and all the “stuff” that goes with it. We removed a closet and used the extra space to create a fantastic mudroom with custom lockers, each with its on bottom drawer on rollers, personal bench, hooks and phone charging station! We also used this area to bring in some of the homeowner’s favorite bright colors. We remodeled the laundry space to make it more functional for the family. Updates include open shelves to store laundry baskets, a new sink, cabinets with an oregano stain, and a countertop at just the right height for the parents. The master bath received a luxurious update to create a relaxing space for mom and dad. A large tile shower replaces the old alcove bathtub and a new double vanity features java stained cabinets and quartz countertops.

This project involves a complete remodel of a condo located in Door County, Wisconsin. The condo, which is situated in the picturesque waterfront community of Egg Harbor, will be transformed into a modern and functional living space. The goal of the remodel is to create a comfortable and inviting environment that takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the area. The scope of the project includes a complete gutting of the existing space and the installation of all new finishes and fixtures. The following is a breakdown of the work that was completed: Demolition: The existing flooring, walls, and ceilings will be removed to prepare for the new construction. Flooring: New hardwood flooring will be installed throughout the main living areas and bedrooms. Walls and Ceilings: The walls and ceilings will be refinished and painted with a fresh coat of paint. Lighting: A new lighting plan will be implemented to improve functionality and aesthetics. Kitchen: The kitchen will be completely redesigned and remodeled with new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. Bathrooms: The bathrooms will be remodeled with new tile, vanities, and fixtures. Deck: The existing deck will be refinished and new outdoor furniture will be added. Windows and Doors: New windows and doors will be installed to improve energy efficiency and to enhance the overall aesthetic of the condo. The project will be managed by a team of experienced contractors who will work closely with the client to ensure that all work is completed to the highest standards of quality and that the project stays on schedule and within budget. Upon completion, the condo will be a beautiful and functional living space that takes full advantage of the natural beauty of Door County. The client will be able to enjoy their new condo in style and comfort, and will have a space that is truly their own.

A Modern Farmhouse remodel that involved a master closet overhaul, encompassing wall adjustments and space optimization, turning a dream into reality. In response to a client's request to revamp their closet during a comprehensive home renovation, we embraced the challenge with our five core values at the forefront. As stewards of quality, we committed to the redesign with a focus on enhancing functionality, maintaining durability, and ensuring aesthetic appeal. Amidst the client's expansive home transformation, which included the expansion of their Master Closet by removing a wall, we encountered a unique situation—losing a built-in dresser. We approached the task with flexibility, aiming not only to replace the missing storage but also to reorganize the existing space efficiently. Our commitment to client-centric solutions led us to assess the current hanging space and storage needs. By understanding the baseline functional requirements of the client, we could tailor our design to meet their specific needs effectively. Utilizing premium Cleef material, we elevated the project luxury and feel. We were able to introduce additional drawer space seamlessly, optimizing the shelving area for maximum utility. The result was a modern, premium feel. Responding to the client's desire for a contemporary touch, we integrated energy-efficient LED lighting into each bay, providing a practical solution for easy identification of clothing within the closet. In essence, our approach to this project was guided by our core values—adaptability, customer focus, quality craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental responsibility. The end result is a redesigned closet that not only meets the functional needs of the client but also embodies our commitment to excellence in every detail.

BEFORE PHOTO: Creating this open airy master retreat involved removing a space consuming corner W.C. and an awkwardly deep linen closet. Using tall glass panels to separate the shower and toilet gives privacy while maintaining the newly acquired spaciousness. The glass panels transition from frosted around the toilet to clear around the roomy barrier free shower. By reducing the original closet opening, we gained necessary wall space for a modern freestanding tub. Tall cabinets provide plenty of storage space for linens and toiletries. A pair of pull-out cabinets – one on each side of the sink – conceal convenient grooming stations. An extra wide sink can easily accommodate two and still leaves plenty of counterspace on either side. The large mirror is mounted to a shallow framework concealing recessed lighting and softly illuminating the wall behind. The faucets and hand-held shower feature a knurled detail lending a bit of biker industrial to the modern surroundings. Access to the walk-in-closet is through a clean open doorway, while a wide modern style barn door slides open on the master bedroom side. Photo credit: Fred Donham of Photographerlink

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

One of the focal points of the new kitchen design is the new, octagonal island made of slate stained cabinets with a Milan grey quartz countertop. For contrast, the wall cabinets have a chestnut stain with a terra brown quartz countertop. Our clients did not want to use recessed lighting in their kitchen, so we designed a custom track system and combined it with pendant lighting in other areas. For more formal family meals, we built a custom banquette that the children can also use for doing homework. The homeowner’s favorite part of the kitchen is the floor to ceiling cabinetry that offers loads of storage space. The children in the family are very active and involved in many activities, but this home was not built to handle their comings and goings and all the “stuff” that goes with it. We removed a closet and used the extra space to create a fantastic mudroom with custom lockers, each with its on bottom drawer on rollers, personal bench, hooks and phone charging station! We also used this area to bring in some of the homeowner’s favorite bright colors. We remodeled the laundry space to make it more functional for the family. Updates include open shelves to store laundry baskets, a new sink, cabinets with an oregano stain, and a countertop at just the right height for the parents. The master bath received a luxurious update to create a relaxing space for mom and dad. A large tile shower replaces the old alcove bathtub and a new double vanity features java stained cabinets and quartz countertops.

A Modern Farmhouse remodel that involved a master closet overhaul, encompassing wall adjustments and space optimization, turning a dream into reality. In response to a client's request to revamp their closet during a comprehensive home renovation, we embraced the challenge with our five core values at the forefront. As stewards of quality, we committed to the redesign with a focus on enhancing functionality, maintaining durability, and ensuring aesthetic appeal. Amidst the client's expansive home transformation, which included the expansion of their Master Closet by removing a wall, we encountered a unique situation—losing a built-in dresser. We approached the task with flexibility, aiming not only to replace the missing storage but also to reorganize the existing space efficiently. Our commitment to client-centric solutions led us to assess the current hanging space and storage needs. By understanding the baseline functional requirements of the client, we could tailor our design to meet their specific needs effectively. Utilizing premium Cleef material, we elevated the project luxury and feel. We were able to introduce additional drawer space seamlessly, optimizing the shelving area for maximum utility. The result was a modern, premium feel. Responding to the client's desire for a contemporary touch, we integrated energy-efficient LED lighting into each bay, providing a practical solution for easy identification of clothing within the closet. In essence, our approach to this project was guided by our core values—adaptability, customer focus, quality craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental responsibility. The end result is a redesigned closet that not only meets the functional needs of the client but also embodies our commitment to excellence in every detail.

BEFORE PHOTO: Creating this open airy master retreat involved removing a space consuming corner W.C. and an awkwardly deep linen closet. Using tall glass panels to separate the shower and toilet gives privacy while maintaining the newly acquired spaciousness. The glass panels transition from frosted around the toilet to clear around the roomy barrier free shower. By reducing the original closet opening, we gained necessary wall space for a modern freestanding tub. Tall cabinets provide plenty of storage space for linens and toiletries. A pair of pull-out cabinets – one on each side of the sink – conceal convenient grooming stations. An extra wide sink can easily accommodate two and still leaves plenty of counterspace on either side. The large mirror is mounted to a shallow framework concealing recessed lighting and softly illuminating the wall behind. The faucets and hand-held shower feature a knurled detail lending a bit of biker industrial to the modern surroundings. Access to the walk-in-closet is through a clean open doorway, while a wide modern style barn door slides open on the master bedroom side. Photo credit: Fred Donham of Photographerlink

One of the focal points of the new kitchen design is the new, octagonal island made of slate stained cabinets with a Milan grey quartz countertop. For contrast, the wall cabinets have a chestnut stain with a terra brown quartz countertop. Our clients did not want to use recessed lighting in their kitchen, so we designed a custom track system and combined it with pendant lighting in other areas. For more formal family meals, we built a custom banquette that the children can also use for doing homework. The homeowner’s favorite part of the kitchen is the floor to ceiling cabinetry that offers loads of storage space. The children in the family are very active and involved in many activities, but this home was not built to handle their comings and goings and all the “stuff” that goes with it. We removed a closet and used the extra space to create a fantastic mudroom with custom lockers, each with its on bottom drawer on rollers, personal bench, hooks and phone charging station! We also used this area to bring in some of the homeowner’s favorite bright colors. We remodeled the laundry space to make it more functional for the family. Updates include open shelves to store laundry baskets, a new sink, cabinets with an oregano stain, and a countertop at just the right height for the parents. The master bath received a luxurious update to create a relaxing space for mom and dad. A large tile shower replaces the old alcove bathtub and a new double vanity features java stained cabinets and quartz countertops.

Cohesively updating and modernizing this home built in the 1990s were the goal in this remodel. Several elements throughout the house like the traditional golden oak original stair railing in the main entry were too colonial for the homeowner as their taste was trending more modern. The golden oak used on trim, fireplace mantle, and baseboards trapped this home in a time warp. The original Kitchen had cabinetry with a traditional door style, painted cabinets, and laminate countertops which also caused it to look dated. The clients expressed a desire to integrate more modern elements into their home in a cost effective way without having to rip everything down to the studs. Our design/build team proposed and executed many elegant cost effective design solutions that involved changing paint, cabinetry, finishes, and fixtures to achieve the desired modern feeling throughout the home. The Kitchen was completely remodeled. The traditional cabinetry was replaced by new frameless Décor cabinets with slab doors and drawers in a beautiful exotic walnut veneer with horizontal graining and soft closing hardware. To enhance the existing structure functionally the built in desk space in the Kitchen was removed and replaced by pantry cabinetry creating improved storage and flow in the new kitchen. The new large Cherry island, also by Décor, was finished in a dark charcoal stain and topped with a solid surface Cambria quartz countertop in Kingston which features a modern mix of black, white and olive tones. For the perimeter countertops Cambria Oakhampton was selected for its complimentary sleek dark chocolate color. Innovative use of materials was demonstrated by cutting linear strips of a pre-sheeted horizontal grey glass mosaic tile, staggering it, and running it vertically instead of horizontally on the backsplash. White Kitchen appliances were traded out for a more contemporary stainless steel.

This remodeling story is a wonderful example of how removing and shifting walls can have an amazing impact on the functionality and visual appeal of an entire level of a home. When our clients reached out to us, they were looking to create an open concept Kitchen that would allow for easy entertaining. The couple had recently purchased this townhome so his mother could be closer to the family. The existing floorplan offered first floor living, but the Kitchen was tucked in the back and was separated from the rest of the living space by a full wall with a small pass through into the Dining Room. Our design involved removing the dividing wall between the Dining Room and Kitchen as well as the fake columns and beam that separated the Dining Room and Living Room. The entire space was opened up to allow for easy flow and view throughout the first floor living space. The wall shared by the Kitchen and large Master Bedroom was shifted back just enough to provide a full wall of additional cabinetry including a much-needed large double Pantry cabinet. Now that we had opened up the Kitchen area we could focus on the cabinetry layout and selections. The existing wood toned cabinets were replaced with white cabinets and crown molding to match the rest of the home. The larger, open space allowed for more cabinetry and the addition of an island with new undermount sink, dishwasher and convenient trash pullout along with seating for the grandchildren. A new range hood was installed and vented to the exterior of the house to replace the old recirculating hood. We were able to repurpose the some of the existing cabinets for use above the washer and dryer in the adjoining Laundry Room and swapped out the existing swinging door for a pocket door to free up traffic flow when doing Laundry and working in the Kitchen. The slate-look ceramic tile was replaced with a pre-engineered hardwood floor that creates a sense of warmth while easy to clean. The new Cambria countertop compliments the slate-look tile found in the Dining Room and Living Room and a natural field tile backsplash offsets the cabinets beautifully. The single fluorescent ceiling light was outdated and did not provide adequate lighting for the new Kitchen. The new lighting plan was carefully thought out to provide general illumination through well placed recessed lighting; task lighting through pendant lighting over the island and under cabinet lighting; and aesthetic fluidity with an eye-catching chandelier for the Dining Room table. Special details include a touch faucet, under counter microwave and glass front cabinetry for displaying dishes. By removing and shifting walls, we improved the entire flow of the first floor visually as well as functionally and created a beautiful, light-filled space for cooking and entertaining. Grandma can easily prepare meals in her new Kitchen and still chat with her guests and grandchildren who love to sit at the island as well as in the adjoining Dining Room and Living Room. The Benson Homes team really enjoyed creating this space for this family and we hope they will enjoy spending time with friends and family for years to come.

A Modern Farmhouse remodel that involved a master closet overhaul, encompassing wall adjustments and space optimization, turning a dream into reality. In response to a client's request to revamp their closet during a comprehensive home renovation, we embraced the challenge with our five core values at the forefront. As stewards of quality, we committed to the redesign with a focus on enhancing functionality, maintaining durability, and ensuring aesthetic appeal. Amidst the client's expansive home transformation, which included the expansion of their Master Closet by removing a wall, we encountered a unique situation—losing a built-in dresser. We approached the task with flexibility, aiming not only to replace the missing storage but also to reorganize the existing space efficiently. Our commitment to client-centric solutions led us to assess the current hanging space and storage needs. By understanding the baseline functional requirements of the client, we could tailor our design to meet their specific needs effectively. Utilizing premium Cleef material, we elevated the project luxury and feel. We were able to introduce additional drawer space seamlessly, optimizing the shelving area for maximum utility. The result was a modern, premium feel. Responding to the client's desire for a contemporary touch, we integrated energy-efficient LED lighting into each bay, providing a practical solution for easy identification of clothing within the closet. In essence, our approach to this project was guided by our core values—adaptability, customer focus, quality craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental responsibility. The end result is a redesigned closet that not only meets the functional needs of the client but also embodies our commitment to excellence in every detail.

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)

One of the focal points of the new kitchen design is the new, octagonal island made of slate stained cabinets with a Milan grey quartz countertop. For contrast, the wall cabinets have a chestnut stain with a terra brown quartz countertop. Our clients did not want to use recessed lighting in their kitchen, so we designed a custom track system and combined it with pendant lighting in other areas. For more formal family meals, we built a custom banquette that the children can also use for doing homework. The homeowner’s favorite part of the kitchen is the floor to ceiling cabinetry that offers loads of storage space. The children in the family are very active and involved in many activities, but this home was not built to handle their comings and goings and all the “stuff” that goes with it. We removed a closet and used the extra space to create a fantastic mudroom with custom lockers, each with its on bottom drawer on rollers, personal bench, hooks and phone charging station! We also used this area to bring in some of the homeowner’s favorite bright colors. We remodeled the laundry space to make it more functional for the family. Updates include open shelves to store laundry baskets, a new sink, cabinets with an oregano stain, and a countertop at just the right height for the parents. The master bath received a luxurious update to create a relaxing space for mom and dad. A large tile shower replaces the old alcove bathtub and a new double vanity features java stained cabinets and quartz countertops.

This project involves a complete remodel of a condo located in Door County, Wisconsin. The condo, which is situated in the picturesque waterfront community of Egg Harbor, will be transformed into a modern and functional living space. The goal of the remodel is to create a comfortable and inviting environment that takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the area. The scope of the project includes a complete gutting of the existing space and the installation of all new finishes and fixtures. The following is a breakdown of the work that was completed: Demolition: The existing flooring, walls, and ceilings will be removed to prepare for the new construction. Flooring: New hardwood flooring will be installed throughout the main living areas and bedrooms. Walls and Ceilings: The walls and ceilings will be refinished and painted with a fresh coat of paint. Lighting: A new lighting plan will be implemented to improve functionality and aesthetics. Kitchen: The kitchen will be completely redesigned and remodeled with new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. Bathrooms: The bathrooms will be remodeled with new tile, vanities, and fixtures. Deck: The existing deck will be refinished and new outdoor furniture will be added. Windows and Doors: New windows and doors will be installed to improve energy efficiency and to enhance the overall aesthetic of the condo. The project will be managed by a team of experienced contractors who will work closely with the client to ensure that all work is completed to the highest standards of quality and that the project stays on schedule and within budget. Upon completion, the condo will be a beautiful and functional living space that takes full advantage of the natural beauty of Door County. The client will be able to enjoy their new condo in style and comfort, and will have a space that is truly their own.

This project for a builder husband and interior-designer wife involved adding onto and restoring the luster of a c. 1883 Carpenter Gothic cottage in Barrington that they had occupied for years while raising their two sons. They were ready to ditch their small tacked-on kitchen that was mostly isolated from the rest of the house, views/daylight, as well as the yard, and replace it with something more generous, brighter, and more open that would improve flow inside and out. They were also eager for a better mudroom, new first-floor 3/4 bath, new basement stair, and a new second-floor master suite above. The design challenge was to conceive of an addition and renovations that would be in balanced conversation with the original house without dwarfing or competing with it. The new cross-gable addition echoes the original house form, at a somewhat smaller scale and with a simplified more contemporary exterior treatment that is sympathetic to the old house but clearly differentiated from it. Renovations included the removal of replacement vinyl windows by others and the installation of new Pella black clad windows in the original house, a new dormer in one of the son’s bedrooms, and in the addition. At the first-floor interior intersection between the existing house and the addition, two new large openings enhance flow and access to daylight/view and are outfitted with pairs of salvaged oversized clear-finished wooden barn-slider doors that lend character and visual warmth. A new exterior deck off the kitchen addition leads to a new enlarged backyard patio that is also accessible from the new full basement directly below the addition. (Interior fit-out and interior finishes/fixtures by the Owners)