This home was transformed from small closed spaces to wide open areas perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The old kitchen had very little counter top space and was designed to work well for only one person. The old kitchen was isolated from the other areas of the home. For a family with teenage children that like to partake in the duties of cooking this was an unfit kitchen. A wall was taken down that allowed for a larger kitchen, an island, lots of counter top space and expanded views to the rest of the public areas. Now cooking and sharing meals proves easier and more enjoyable for the whole family. The island has become a hub where homework, conversation and sharing takes place.

Freestanding bathtub - transitional master beige tile and stone tile ceramic tile, gray floor and double-sink freestanding bathtub idea in Austin with recessed-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, gray countertops and a built-in vanity

According to swimmingpool.com, a growing trend is to “make the hot tub appear ‘invisible’ in the design. These spa beauties are often placed with walkways or steps as you see here. For these clients, an up-to-date style wasn’t the only inspiration for the design. With three young children, safety had become a major concern and they also wanted an automatic pool cover. Designing a geometric pool with a built-in spill-over spa recessed inside the pool allowed us to give them one automatic cover for both bodies of water. In addition, special automation allows them to isolate the spa and heat only the spa water. www.deckandpatio.com

Want a real theater experience in your home? We can create a dedicated private cinema in which the environment is precisely designed & engineered to provide maximum movie and music enjoyment. The room is isolated from outside noise with special acoustic treatments and audio is optimized with measured speaker placement. Cozy up on plush theater seating positioned specifically for the ultimate viewing experience of your big screen. Lighting is also controlled so when you press a single button, the lights dim and the show begins. Press pause and lights dim up so you can get more popcorn and soda.

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall. The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home. Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup! One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space. The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back. We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed. Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it! We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake! Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs. We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together. We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown. Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility. The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels. The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy. This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This client needed a place to entertain by the pool. They had already done their “inside” kitchen with Bilotta and so returned to design their outdoor space. All summer they spend a lot of time in their backyard entertaining guests, day and night. But before they had their fully designed outdoor space, whoever was in charge of grilling would feel isolated from everyone else. They needed one cohesive space to prep, mingle, eat and drink, alongside their pool. They did not skimp on a thing – they wanted all the bells and whistles: a big Wolf grill, plenty of weather resistant countertop space for dining (Lapitec - Grigio Cemento, by Eastern Stone), an awning (Durasol Pinnacle II by Gregory Sahagain & Sons, Inc.) that would also keep bright light out of the family room, lights, and an indoor space where they could escape the bugs if needed and even watch TV. The client was thrilled with the outcome - their complete vision for an ideal outdoor entertaining space came to life. Cabinetry is Lynx Professional Storage Line. Refrigerator drawers and sink by Lynx. Faucet is stainless by MGS Nerhas. Bilotta Designer: Randy O’Kane with Clark Neuringer Architects, posthumously. Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

This home was transformed from small closed spaces to wide open areas perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The old kitchen had very little counter top space and was designed to work well for only one person. The old kitchen was isolated from the other areas of the home. For a family with teenage children that like to partake in the duties of cooking this was an unfit kitchen. A wall was taken down that allowed for a larger kitchen, an island, lots of counter top space and expanded views to the rest of the public areas. Now cooking and sharing meals proves easier and more enjoyable for the whole family. The island has become a hub where homework, conversation and sharing takes place.

This home was transformed from small closed spaces to wide open areas perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The old kitchen had very little counter top space and was designed to work well for only one person. The old kitchen was isolated from the other areas of the home. For a family with teenage children that like to partake in the duties of cooking this was an unfit kitchen. A wall was taken down that allowed for a larger kitchen, an island, lots of counter top space and expanded views to the rest of the public areas. Now cooking and sharing meals proves easier and more enjoyable for the whole family. The island has become a hub where homework, conversation and sharing takes place.

The condominium is on the 15th floor of Siesta Key’s Terrace Building, originally designed in 1969 by Frank Folsom Smith. Two corner units were combined into a single condo. All interior partitions were removed. The ceiling finish was stripped to expose the concrete formwork. The bathrooms, storage, and kitchen are laid out in a wood-clad central core. The windows were replaced by a series of 7-panel bi-fold glass doors that open out from the structural corners. A custom steel desk was designed to span between existing columns. The master bedroom faces the city while the living space faces the Gulf and the beach. Ten-foot-wide steel and wood folding partitions allow the owner to transform the space and to isolate the office from either the living or the master. The partitions fold back into the wood core to reconnect the private suite with the rest of the unit to form one continuous space. The master bath borrows light from an adjoining space through a window with a switchable electric film. Speakers, vents and air return are all accommodated through discrete cuts and perforations in the wood veneer.

This home was transformed from small closed spaces to wide open areas perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The old kitchen had very little counter top space and was designed to work well for only one person. The old kitchen was isolated from the other areas of the home. For a family with teenage children that like to partake in the duties of cooking this was an unfit kitchen. A wall was taken down that allowed for a larger kitchen, an island, lots of counter top space and expanded views to the rest of the public areas. Now cooking and sharing meals proves easier and more enjoyable for the whole family. The island has become a hub where homework, conversation and sharing takes place.

BATHROOM AND HOME ENHANCEMENT. | We no longer consider the bathroom a separate, isolated room, but instead an open, cozy seamless space. With 2nd floor, Sieger Design and Duravit pay tribute to this idea. A combined high-quality design collection and comfortable furniture range, 2nd floor uses simple means to design an elegant, inviting room. Its many warm wood elements provide an engaging contrast to the white of the ceramic and sanitary acrylic. Thanks to a variety of available dimensions and options, it is possible to create an attractive washing area in every architectural situation, including smaller rooms, such as guest bathrooms and powder rooms. | Available at www.ShopStudio41.com

Want a real theater experience in your home? We can create a dedicated private cinema in which the environment is precisely designed & engineered to provide maximum movie and music enjoyment. The room is isolated from outside noise with special acoustic treatments and audio is optimized with measured speaker placement. Cozy up on plush theater seating positioned specifically for the ultimate viewing experience of your big screen. Lighting is also controlled so when you press a single button, the lights dim and the show begins. Press pause and lights dim up so you can get more popcorn and soda.

What began as a renovation project morphed into a new house, driven by the natural beauty of the site. The new structures are perfectly aligned with the coastline, and take full advantage of the views of ocean, islands, and shoals. The location is within walking distance of town and its amenities, yet miles away in the privacy it affords. The house is nestled on a nicely wooded lot, giving the residence screening from the street, with an open meadow leading to the ocean on the rear of the lot. The design concept was driven by the serenity of the site, enhanced by textures of trees, plantings, sand and shoreline. The newly constructed house sits quietly in a location advantageously positioned to take full advantage of natural light and solar orientations. The visual calm is enhanced by the natural material: stone, wood, and metal throughout the home. The main structures are comprised of traditional New England forms, with modern connectors serving to unify the structures. Each building is equally suited for single floor living, if that future needs is ever necessary. Unique too is an underground connection between main house and an outbuilding. With their flowing connections, no room is isolated or ignored; instead each reflects a different level of privacy and social interaction. Just as there are layers to the exterior in beach, field, forest and oceans, the inside has a layered approach. Textures in wood, stone, and neutral colors combine with the warmth of linens, wools, and metals. Personality and character of the interiors and its furnishings are tailored to the client’s lifestyle. Rooms are arranged and organized in an intersection of public and private spaces. The quiet palette within reflects the nature outside, enhanced with artwork and accessories.

Jennifer Mayo Studios
Inspiration for a small mid-century modern galley medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen remodel in Grand Rapids with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, green cabinets, laminate countertops, white backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Gardner/Fox provided architectural, interior design and construction services to create an entertainment area in a full unfinished walk- out basement. A large custom bar beckons to all who descend the staircase. Innovative storage solutions at the bar include shelving in a column that opens from 3 sides, an under counter refrigerator paneled to match the bar cabinets, and glass cabinets to display the homeowners stemware. Dave Stimmel designed custom display cases for the homeowners NCAA fencing trophies and swords. New walls were erected to seal off mechanical equipment in the corner adjacent to the bar and also a separate exercise room off of the sitting area. An arched walkway beneath the stairs provides better flow & opens up an other wise isolated corner. Follow the wide hallway beyond the fireplace to French doors and a new pool area. From there, another arched opening leads to a changing area and a full bath room.

A doctor in Dallas hired Mapos to design his dream home in the upscale neighborhood of Bluffview that would serve as both a haven from his hectic days at the hospital and a space to support his active outdoor lifestyle. Mapos was tasked with designing a modern home that would function as a definitive counterpoint to the new, yet traditional McMansions on adjacent properties. The client emphasized the necessity of informal living and dining areas for entertaining, spacious bedrooms, a home office, and plentiful storage space for his outdoor gear and automobiles. He also requested an outdoor pool, hot tub, and lush landscape to isolate the property and establish a sense of privacy. The two-story interior was designed as an open volume with the second floor inserted into a larger box, creating a dramatic interplay of double-height and compressed spaces on the lower level. For the exterior, Mapos composed the house out of four flat-roofed volumes, assembled to create welcoming front and rear outdoor spaces, intimate landscaped side gardens, and visual protection from the neighbors. The forms and proportions combined contain a rich assembly of indoor and outdoor spaces that will serve the client for years to come.

This 80 year old farm house was in need of an update. The kitchen and dining areas were cramped, dark and isolated from one another. The homeowner requested an open floor plan with more storage and space where her children could play while she was busy in the kitchen. Thompson Remodeling flipped the existing positions of the dining room and kitchen and removed walls to open up the space. The new kitchen has bright white cabinets, quartz countertops and an island with a butcher block counter. A custom banquette provides seating and a spot for the kids to play and do homework while its bench doubles as hidden storage. The wet bar in the dining space has loads of pantry space. The existing floors were very uneven, so we used a vinyl plank flooring that would allow more give for installation. It looks just like weathered pine and will offer very easy care for the busy family.

The condominium is on the 15th floor of Siesta Key’s Terrace Building, originally designed in 1969 by Frank Folsom Smith. Two corner units were combined into a single condo. All interior partitions were removed. The ceiling finish was stripped to expose the concrete formwork. The bathrooms, storage, and kitchen are laid out in a wood-clad central core. The windows were replaced by a series of 7-panel bi-fold glass doors that open out from the structural corners. A custom steel desk was designed to span between existing columns. The master bedroom faces the city while the living space faces the Gulf and the beach. Ten-foot-wide steel and wood folding partitions allow the owner to transform the space and to isolate the office from either the living or the master. The partitions fold back into the wood core to reconnect the private suite with the rest of the unit to form one continuous space. The master bath borrows light from an adjoining space through a window with a switchable electric film. Speakers, vents and air return are all accommodated through discrete cuts and perforations in the wood veneer.

Large island style master beige tile and glass tile travertine floor doorless shower photo in San Diego with recessed-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, beige walls, a vessel sink and granite countertops