When Irvine designer, Richard Bustos’ client decided to remodel his Orange County 4,900 square foot home into a contemporary space, he immediately thought of Cantoni. His main concern though was based on the assumption that our luxurious modern furnishings came with an equally luxurious price tag. It was only after a visit to our Irvine store, where the client and Richard connected that the client realized our extensive collection of furniture and accessories was well within his reach.

“Richard was very thorough and straight forward as far as pricing,” says the client. "I became very intrigued that he was able to offer high quality products that I was looking for within my budget.” The next phases of the project involved looking over floor plans and discussing the client’s vision as far as design. The goal was to create a comfortable, yet stylish and modern layout for the client, his wife, and their three kids. In addition to creating a cozy and contemporary space, the client wanted his home to exude a tranquil atmosphere. Drawing most of his inspiration from Houzz, (the leading online platform for home remodeling and design) the client incorporated a Zen-like ambiance through the distressed greyish brown flooring, organic bamboo wall art, and with Richard’s help, earthy wall coverings, found in both the master bedroom and bathroom. Over the span of approximately two years, Richard helped his client accomplish his vision by selecting pieces of modern furniture that possessed the right colors, earthy tones, and textures so as to complement the home’s pre-existing features. The first room the duo tackled was the great room, and later continued furnishing the kitchen and master bedroom. Living up to its billing, the great room not only opened up to a breathtaking view of the Newport coast, it also was one great space. Richard decided that the best option to maximize the space would be to break the room into two separate yet distinct areas for living and dining. While exploring our online collections, the client discovered the Jasper Shag rug in a bold and vibrant green. The grassy green rug paired with the sleek Italian made Montecarlo glass dining table added just the right amount of color and texture to compliment the natural beauty of the bamboo sculpture. The client happily adds, “I’m always receiving complements on the green rug!” Once the duo had completed the dining area, they worked on furnishing the living area, and later added pieces like the classic Renoir bed to the master bedroom and Crescent Console to the kitchen, which adds both balance and sophistication. The living room, also known as the family room was the central area where Richard’s client and his family would spend quality time. As a fellow family man, Richard understood that that meant creating an inviting space with comfortable and durable pieces of furniture that still possessed a modern flare. The client loved the look and design of the Mercer sectional. With Cantoni’s ability to customize furniture, Richard was able to special order the sectional in a fabric that was both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Selecting the color scheme for the living room was also greatly influenced by the client’s pre-existing artwork as well as unique distressed floors. Richard recommended adding dark pieces of furniture as seen in the Mercer sectional along with the Viera area rug. He explains, “The darker colors and contrast of the rug’s material worked really well with the distressed wood floor.” Furthermore, the comfortable American Leather Recliner, which was customized in red leather not only maximized the space, but also tied in the client’s picturesque artwork beautifully. The client adds gratefully, “Richard was extremely helpful with color; He was great at seeing if I was taking it too far or not enough.” It is apparent that Richard and his client made a great team. With the client’s passion for great design and Richard’s design expertise, together they transformed the home into a modern sanctuary. Working with this particular client was a very rewarding experience for Richard. He adds, “My client and his family were so easy and fun to work with. Their enthusiasm, focus, and involvement are what helped me bring their ideas to life. I think we created a unique environment that their entire family can enjoy for many years to come.” https://www.cantoni.com/project/a-contemporary-sanctuary

Middlefork was retained to update and revitalize this North Shore home to a family of six. The primary goal of this project was to update and expand the home's small, eat-in kitchen. The existing space was gutted and a 1,500-square-foot addition was built to house a gourmet kitchen, connected breakfast room, fireside seating, butler's pantry, and a small office. The family desired nice, timeless spaces that were also durable and family-friendly. As such, great consideration was given to the interior finishes. The 10' kitchen island, for instance, is a solid slab of white velvet quartzite, selected for its ability to withstand mustard, ketchup and finger-paint. There are shorter, walnut extensions off either end of the island that support the children's involvement in meal preparation and crafts. Low-maintenance Atlantic Blue Stone was selected for the perimeter counters. The scope of this phase grew to include re-trimming the front façade and entry to emphasize the Georgian detailing of the home. In addition, the balance of the first floor was gutted; existing plumbing and electrical systems were updated; all windows were replaced; two powder rooms were updated; a low-voltage distribution system for HDTV and audio was added; and, the interior of the home was re-trimmed. Two new patios were also added, providing outdoor areas for entertaining, dining and cooking. Tom Harris, Hedrich Blessing

Elegantly curved with a strong square picture frame presence the Margaret fireplace mantel is the perfect focal point for a luxurious space. Its classic charm works with a variety of styles for both casual and more formal rooms. The soft curve gives a distinct look of a traditional stone mantel. ​ ​To add grace, drama, or to meet the requirements of your fireplace unit consider a hearth to add to the design. Colors : -Haze -Charcoal -London Fog -Chalk -Moonlight -Portobello -Chocolate -Mist Finishes: -Simply White -Cloud White -Ice White

Middlefork was retained to update and revitalize this North Shore home to a family of six. The primary goal of this project was to update and expand the home's small, eat-in kitchen. The existing space was gutted and a 1,500-square-foot addition was built to house a gourmet kitchen, connected breakfast room, fireside seating, butler's pantry, and a small office. The family desired nice, timeless spaces that were also durable and family-friendly. As such, great consideration was given to the interior finishes. The 10' kitchen island, for instance, is a solid slab of white velvet quartzite, selected for its ability to withstand mustard, ketchup and finger-paint. There are shorter, walnut extensions off either end of the island that support the children's involvement in meal preparation and crafts. Low-maintenance Atlantic Blue Stone was selected for the perimeter counters. The scope of this phase grew to include re-trimming the front façade and entry to emphasize the Georgian detailing of the home. In addition, the balance of the first floor was gutted; existing plumbing and electrical systems were updated; all windows were replaced; two powder rooms were updated; a low-voltage distribution system for HDTV and audio was added; and, the interior of the home was re-trimmed. Two new patios were also added, providing outdoor areas for entertaining, dining and cooking. Tom Harris, Hedrich Blessing

HGTV
Large trendy backyard tile patio kitchen photo in Austin with a pergola

Example of a transitional home design design in Philadelphia

Middlefork was retained to update and revitalize this North Shore home to a family of six. The primary goal of this project was to update and expand the home's small, eat-in kitchen. The existing space was gutted and a 1,500-square-foot addition was built to house a gourmet kitchen, connected breakfast room, fireside seating, butler's pantry, and a small office. The family desired nice, timeless spaces that were also durable and family-friendly. As such, great consideration was given to the interior finishes. The 10' kitchen island, for instance, is a solid slab of white velvet quartzite, selected for its ability to withstand mustard, ketchup and finger-paint. There are shorter, walnut extensions off either end of the island that support the children's involvement in meal preparation and crafts. Low-maintenance Atlantic Blue Stone was selected for the perimeter counters. The scope of this phase grew to include re-trimming the front façade and entry to emphasize the Georgian detailing of the home. In addition, the balance of the first floor was gutted; existing plumbing and electrical systems were updated; all windows were replaced; two powder rooms were updated; a low-voltage distribution system for HDTV and audio was added; and, the interior of the home was re-trimmed. Two new patios were also added, providing outdoor areas for entertaining, dining and cooking. Tom Harris, Hedrich Blessing

Beach style yellow exterior home photo in Boston

Photos by Michael McVay Photography
Example of a large transitional white two-story stucco exterior home design in Miami

Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless single-wall light wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

Phil and Rocio, little did you know how perfect your timing was when you came to us and asked for a “small but perfect home”. Fertile ground indeed as we thought about working on something like a precious gem, or what we’re calling a NEW Jewel. So many of our clients now are building smaller homes because they simply don’t need a bigger one. Seems smart for many reasons: less vacuuming, less heating and cooling, less taxes. And for many, less strain on the finances as we get to the point where retirement shines bright and hopeful. For the jewel of a home we wanted to start with 1,000 square feet. Enough room for a pleasant common area, a couple of away rooms for bed and work, a couple of bathrooms and yes to a mudroom and pantry. (For Phil and Rocio’s, we ended up with 1,140 square feet.) The Jewel would not compromise on design intent, envelope or craft intensity. This is the big benefit of the smaller footprint, of course. By using a pure and simple form for the house volume, a true jewel would have enough money in the budget for the highest quality materials, net-zero levels of insulation, triple pane windows, and a high-efficiency heat pump. Additionally, the doors would be handcrafted, the cabinets solid wood, the finishes exquisite, and craftsmanship shudderingly excellent. Our many thanks to Phil and Rocio for including us in their dream home project. It is truly a Jewel! From the homeowners (read their full note here): “It is quite difficult to express the deep sense of gratitude we feel towards everyone that contributed to the Jewel…many of which I don’t have the ability to send this to, or even be able to name. The artistic, creative flair combined with real-life practicality is a major component of our place we will love for many years to come. Please pass on our thanks to everyone that was involved. We look forward to visits from any and all as time goes by." –Phil and Rocio Read more about the first steps for this Jewel on our blog. Reclaimed Wood, Kitchen Cabinetry, Bedroom Door: Pioneer Millworks Entry door: NEWwoodworks Professional Photos: Loren Nelson Photography

Project Overview: The Backyard Renovation 3D Rendering project was developed to visually communicate the design intent and vision for a residential outdoor space. The project aimed to provide clear and engaging representations for both the contractor and the homeowner's association, facilitating a shared understanding of the proposed enhancements. Key Features: 1. New Driveway with Automatic Gates: The design features a contemporary driveway equipped with automated gates, providing convenience and improved security for the property. 2. Exercise Gym with Yoga Area: A dedicated space for fitness activities that includes both a traditional exercise gym and a serene yoga area, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. 3. Coffee Station with Juice Bar: This inviting area is designed for relaxation and socialization, featuring a coffee station complemented by a juice bar to enhance outdoor entertaining. 4. Secluded Meditation Space: A tranquil retreat is included, featuring a soothing wall fountain, cold plunge, and sauna, all surrounded by lush tropical vegetation to create an oasis for relaxation and mindfulness. 5. Lush Tropical Vegetation: The landscaping incorporates a variety of tropical plants that enhance privacy, beautify the space, and contribute to the overall calming atmosphere of the outdoor environment. Project Goals: The main goals of the project were to: • Visualize the backyard renovation to gain approval from the homeowner’s association. • Facilitate collaboration with the contractor by providing detailed renderings. • Create an aesthetically appealing and functional outdoor living space that meets the lifestyle needs of the homeowners. The 3D renderings successfully encapsulated the vision for the backyard renovation, presenting a harmonious blend of design and functionality. The visualizations served as a critical tool in moving forward with the project, ensuring clarity in communication and direction for all stakeholders involved.

Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in DC Metro

This project was quite involved (and lots of fun). We poured an 8" thick concrete wall; filled in the patio area with 50 tons of gravel; poured a cap in a dark gray integral color, and stamped it with seashell impressions. Then we filled in the patio and step areas with Clay Red integral colored concrete stamped in the Roman Slate pattern, and cut it decoratively into 5' squares. We finished things off by overlaying the wall with a stamped modified mortar to replicate stacked stone.

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional 3/4 beige tile, gray tile and porcelain tile alcove shower remodel in New York with white walls, dark wood cabinets and a one-piece toilet

With the original, unfinished laundry room located in the enclosed porch with plywood subflooring and bare shiplap on the walls, our client was ready for a change. To create a functional size laundry/utility room, Blackline Renovations repurposed part of the enclosed porch and slightly expanded into the original kitchen footprint. With a small space to work with, form and function was paramount. Blackline Renovations’ creative solution involved carefully designing an efficient layout with accessible storage. The laundry room was thus designed with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and a stacked washer/dryer to provide enough space for a folding station and drying area. The lower cabinet beneath the drying area was even customized to conceal and store a cat litter box. Every square inch was wisely utilized to maximize this small space.

Inspiration for a mid-sized mid-century modern look-out brown floor basement remodel in Philadelphia with yellow walls

This interior design project involved a comprehensive renovation that completely transformed the appearance and features of an apartment located on the Costa del Sol, Spain. The goal was to modernize the space, enhance functionality, and create a more sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere, aligned with a Nordic style that emphasizes warmth and natural elements. ### Space Redistribution: Originally, the apartment had only one bedroom and one bathroom. The first phase of the renovation involved redistributing the space to add a second bathroom, with one of them becoming an en-suite connected directly to the master bedroom. This addition significantly improved comfort and privacy, allowing each bedroom to have its own bathroom. Additionally, a new laundry area was created, providing a dedicated space for the washing machine, water heater, and cleaning supplies, optimizing the home's functionality without compromising aesthetics. ### Flooring and Visual Continuity: The old dark, square-patterned flooring was replaced with porcelain tiles that mimic the texture and tone of wood. This new material was extended from the interior to the terrace, creating a sense of continuity and spaciousness. This change not only modernized the apartment's appearance but also reinforced the visual harmony between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting residents to enjoy the natural light and views offered by the coastal location. ### Bathroom Renovation: With the addition of a second bathroom, both spaces were completely renovated. The old tiles and bathtub were removed in favor of a more modern and functional design. Light-colored ceramics reflecting the Nordic style were installed, along with contemporary fixtures and clean lines. The en-suite bathroom was designed to offer an intimate and luxurious space, while the second bathroom, though equally modern, provides comfort and accessibility for the rest of the home. ### Style and Décor: The predominant Nordic style was reflected in the choice of materials and colors. The walls were adorned with wooden slats, a detail that adds texture and warmth to the space, while the décor focused on natural elements like wood, linen, and plant fibers, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Neutral tones and simple lines prevail, achieving a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. ### Final Result: The result is an apartment that not only looks more spacious and modern but also exudes a sense of tranquility and comfort. The renovation has transformed the space into a home that invites you to enjoy sunny days on the Costa del Sol, with a terrace seamlessly integrated with the interior and living spaces that reflect a sophisticated, functional, and inviting lifestyle. Este proyecto de interiorismo consistió en una reforma integral que transformó por completo el aspecto y las características de un apartamento ubicado en la Costa del Sol, España. El objetivo era modernizar el espacio, mejorar la funcionalidad y crear un ambiente más sofisticado y acogedor, alineado con un estilo nórdico que resalta la calidez y la naturalidad. ### Redistribución del Espacio: Inicialmente, el apartamento contaba con una sola habitación y un solo baño. La primera fase de la reforma implicó una redistribución del espacio, añadiendo un segundo baño, de los cuales uno se convirtió en suite, conectado directamente con la habitación principal. Esta ampliación mejoró significativamente la comodidad y privacidad, permitiendo que cada habitación tuviera su propio baño. Además, se creó una nueva zona de lavadero, un espacio dedicado para la lavadora, el termotanque y los elementos de limpieza, optimizando la funcionalidad del hogar sin sacrificar la estética. ### Suelos y Continuidad Visual: Se reemplazaron los antiguos suelos de color oscuro, de apariencia cuadrada, por un porcelánico que imita la textura y el tono de la madera. Este nuevo material se extendió desde el interior hasta la terraza, creando una sensación de continuidad y amplitud. Este cambio no solo modernizó el aspecto del apartamento, sino que también reforzó la armonía visual entre los espacios interiores y exteriores, invitando a disfrutar de la luz natural y las vistas que ofrece la ubicación costera. ### Renovación de Baños: Con la adición de un segundo baño, ambos espacios fueron completamente renovados. Se eliminaron los viejos azulejos y la bañera en favor de un diseño más moderno y funcional. Se instalaron cerámicas de tonos claros que reflejan el estilo nórdico, junto con elementos contemporáneos y líneas limpias. El baño en suite, en particular, fue diseñado para ofrecer un espacio íntimo y lujoso, mientras que el segundo baño, aunque igualmente moderno, ofrece comodidad y accesibilidad para el resto de la casa. ### Estilo y Decoración: El estilo nórdico predominante se reflejó en la elección de materiales y colores. Las paredes fueron adornadas con palillería, un detalle que aporta textura y calidez al espacio, mientras que la decoración se basó en elementos naturales como madera, lino y fibras vegetales, creando una atmósfera serena y relajante. Los tonos neutros y las líneas simples predominan, logrando un equilibrio perfecto entre sofisticación y comodidad. ### Resultado Final: El resultado es un apartamento que no solo se ve más amplio y moderno, sino que también transmite una sensación de tranquilidad y confort. La reforma ha transformado el espacio en un hogar que invita a disfrutar de los días soleados en la Costa del Sol, con una terraza que se integra perfectamente con el interior, y unos ambientes interiores que reflejan un estilo de vida sofisticado, funcional y acogedor.

This home, built in 1847, is the oldest included in the Lee County Historic Register. The master bath and kitchen had framing dating to the original build. Both rooms were out of square and plumb. The owners decided to tear out and square up. Had they not, the kitchen, with addition, would have a 5” slope across 25’. The entire home features original heart pine floors. The foyer floor had been refinished so many times that it required stabilization from below. The surface was so thin that it required the services of a specialist to sand before we refinished, saving the original floor. The second floor was added earlier this century and now required a large engineered beam to allow for the kitchen addition. The kitchen windows are now Marvin brand clad wood (TDL). If you look closely, you will see we used a rounded bead on the archway. The daughter’s bath is contained in a very small space. We built the knee wall. The knee wall had to be beveled to accommodate the walk door swing and access the toilet. Rohl sinks were used in both kitchens and bathrooms, along with unlacquered Newport Brass faucets to allow them to patina to a beautiful and natural aged look. The new kitchen island countertop we installed is Honed Kronos Dolomite with smoked soapstone surrounds. There is a new “hidden room” above the kitchen featuring a Murphy cabinet door entry. The second flat roof floor deck, built over 20 years ago, had floor paver tiles that required a custom match. We sliced brick to achieve this. This home site features a large oak tree. The owners appreciate the sensory enhancements it provides and are determined to preserve the backyard centerpiece. This necessitated an 18” from edge railing setback. The railing features a herringbone design which we rebuilt for proportionality following the edge setback. This project required a rework of the massive roof valleys feeding the copper conductor boxes which was completed using 10’ PVC sheets, 6” copper downspouts and copper conductor boxes. We also added ½ round copper gutters with copper downspouts. We then added a steel frame with copper standing seam eyebrow roof over the 2nd floor balcony door. The traditional tongue and groove front porch floor warped and buckled. We replaced it with sassafras wood after rebuilding the framing to accommodate the new flooring. After extensive Building Science research, we installed 2 dehumidifying fans in the front porch crawl space to keep the porch floor boards smooth. We found the original 18’X18”X16’ tall original columns had some rot. During repair, we found structural defects. Replacement involved placing the 4x4 iron posts on a concrete foundation. We built new columns of sassafras then wrapped the iron posts.