Attic space with 70" high knee walls, to short for double hanging on the walls, gains height with deep cabinets. Black with matt gold hardware, mirrors, hampers and lard birch drawer boxes.

These homeowners didn’t feel the need for a whole remodel and liked the color of their cabinets but really wanted a few upgrades… and then ended up doing a little more once we showed them how we can improve efficiency and storage in their kitchen! Their biggest issue is having a microwave over their stove since they tend to an elderly parent and that the exhaust is not vented outside. Andy figured out the perfect solution to vent out their new matching range hood and since they never liked their countertops or backsplash, they added that to the mix. With standard cabinet that have deep or half shelves it is hard to maximize storage and accessibility so Marty suggested roll-out trays in 3 cabinets, a pull-out trash so they don’t have to walk around the one at the end of their island, a blind corner pull-out so they don’t have to get down on their hands and knees to access things, and then their favorite… hinge out spice rack! Let’s be honest, it’s EVERYONE’s favorite! Needless to say, we more than solved this kitchen for these homeowners. Where is the microwave now? Well, he is a handy guy so he decided to tackle a simple cabinet modification and is installing it himself in a base cabinet!

By relocating the narrow linen closet to the sitting room outside the bathroom, we expanded the shower and embraced the blue inspiration our client desired, using deep blue 2×8 glass shower wall tiles and a glass mosaic penny round tile on the shower floor and in the shower niche. On the opposite side of the spacious area, a knee wall was added to offer separation between the toilet and vanity. Framing the vanity is a stunning statement wallpaper, adding a vibrant pop of pattern. Beyond aesthetics, this remodel expertly balances luxury and functionality, harmonizing contemporary fixtures and ambient lighting. This luxurious Primary Bathroom remodel redefines comfort and sophistication within a serene space, marking a remarkable journey from the mundane to the magnificent.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

A close view of one of the primary bath vanities showing the full millwork detail white inset cabinetry with raised panel doors, deep drawer stacks, and polished nickel round knob hardware. The countertop is a dramatically veined marble or quartzite slab with bold grey and bronze movement, running continuously into a built-in makeup vanity station on the left with knee clearance and its own mirror. A large frameless beveled mirror is centered above the sink flanked by polished nickel candelabra sconces, reflecting the spherical crystal chandelier and the opposing vanity wall behind.

Custom laundry room cabinetry built to maximize space and functionality. Drawers and pull out shelves keep this homeowner from having to get down on their knees to grab what they need. Soft close door hinges and drawer glides add a luxurious feel to this clean and simple laundry room.

**Check out the video of this transformation on our website** This small kitchen was way too small for this 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms apartment. Not only was it a very small kitchen, but the physical location of it made it very difficult to make it any bigger. There wasn't much that could have been done without incurring astronomical cost, which would get little or no return on the investment. The client wanted a kitchen that can be optimized in its current location to add a ton of value for resale. This was difficult to do, because there was no moving of any mechanical around in the kitchen and even if we wanted to, the management of the building would not allow. For those of you who live in condos, co-ops or apartment building, you know how difficult it is to rework these foot prints. When we showed up, we saw the problems, but we also saw a huge opportunity where we can achieve those goals in the small space. This was accomplished by making some key changes and to incorporate some new things that was not possible when this kitchen was built years ago. The crucial part of the design that would drive the entire new layout, was selecting the only appliance; that was the Refrigerator. Once we nailed down that refrigerator, we then proceeded to design the kitchen around it. We moved it to the other side of the wall where the sink was so that we can tap into the water line from the sink plumbing. It was crucial that it stays exactly 24" deep, not an inch more because we had to keep the entry as open as possible. Also, it was going to be directly in front of another big storage unit - The pantry. It is not ideal in most cases, but we needed the rest of the space to ramp up the design and open feel towards the side where all of the activities would take place, which happend to be the dining room and the view. Once all that was figured out, we re-positioned the sink, dishwasher and the range and proceeded to wrap the cabinets around the columns to integrate them into the space. Thirty- six inches cabinets height was used so that they can be installed higher towards the ceiling height to give more room rather than the standard 18" required height between the counter tops. This was done to make the room feel a lot bigger than it really was. Not to mention, we also didn't want the faucet to be buried under the cabinets so that was also a necessary design detail for the space. We then lowered both knee walls so that the counter top can sit on top of them, by removing that stop point that would have otherwise defined the kitchen area. This allowed us to pick up that extra footprint into the room for added prep space and enabled us to create the illusion of a kitchen that is looking longer than it really is. Every inch mattered when designing this kitchen and we made a conscious decision to use every one of that inch. White cabinets were selected to do just what white cabinets are design to do; make a small or dark room appear bigger, brighter and more open. In this kitchen, this was amplified the more because of the kitchen location. It was perfect! We knew we did justice to the space because while we were there taking some photos, a few potential buyers walked in and went straight for the kitchen! They said its design just to fit the apartment. Pantry roll out shelving, Double recycle bin, fancy handles, LED lighting, Quartz counter top, beautiful backslash tiles and grey linen floors finished off the kitchen which looked over a beautiful view of the George Washington Bridge from the top of this lovely 4th floor apartment. Credit to Masterpiece Tile and Marble (Annmarie on the selection of Tiles and countertop and Val on the Construction to complete this project). Davor Kokic Photography

**Check out the video of this transformation on our website** This small kitchen was way too small for this 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms apartment. Not only was it a very small kitchen, but the physical location of it made it very difficult to make it any bigger. There wasn't much that could have been done without incurring astronomical cost, which would get little or no return on the investment. The client wanted a kitchen that can be optimized in its current location to add a ton of value for resale. This was difficult to do, because there was no moving of any mechanical around in the kitchen and even if we wanted to, the management of the building would not allow. For those of you who live in condos, co-ops or apartment building, you know how difficult it is to rework these foot prints. When we showed up, we saw the problems, but we also saw a huge opportunity where we can achieve those goals in the small space. This was accomplished by making some key changes and to incorporate some new things that was not possible when this kitchen was built years ago. The crucial part of the design that would drive the entire new layout, was selecting the only appliance; that was the Refrigerator. Once we nailed down that refrigerator, we then proceeded to design the kitchen around it. We moved it to the other side of the wall where the sink was so that we can tap into the water line from the sink plumbing. It was crucial that it stays exactly 24" deep, not an inch more because we had to keep the entry as open as possible. Also, it was going to be directly in front of another big storage unit - The pantry. It is not ideal in most cases, but we needed the rest of the space to ramp up the design and open feel towards the side where all of the activities would take place, which happend to be the dining room and the view. Once all that was figured out, we re-positioned the sink, dishwasher and the range and proceeded to wrap the cabinets around the columns to integrate them into the space. Thirty- six inches cabinets height was used so that they can be installed higher towards the ceiling height to give more room rather than the standard 18" required height between the counter tops. This was done to make the room feel a lot bigger than it really was. Not to mention, we also didn't want the faucet to be buried under the cabinets so that was also a necessary design detail for the space. We then lowered both knee walls so that the counter top can sit on top of them, by removing that stop point that would have otherwise defined the kitchen area. This allowed us to pick up that extra footprint into the room for added prep space and enabled us to create the illusion of a kitchen that is looking longer than it really is. Every inch mattered when designing this kitchen and we made a conscious decision to use every one of that inch. White cabinets were selected to do just what white cabinets are design to do; make a small or dark room appear bigger, brighter and more open. In this kitchen, this was amplified the more because of the kitchen location. It was perfect! We knew we did justice to the space because while we were there taking some photos, a few potential buyers walked in and went straight for the kitchen! They said its design just to fit the apartment. Pantry roll out shelving, Double recycle bin, fancy handles, LED lighting, Quartz counter top, beautiful backslash tiles and grey linen floors finished off the kitchen which looked over a beautiful view of the George Washington Bridge from the top of this lovely 4th floor apartment. Credit to Masterpiece Tile and Marble (Annmarie on the selection of Tiles and countertop and Val on the Construction to complete this project). Davor Kokic Photography

Katherine Dashiell of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Annapolis, MD collaborated with Lauer Construction on this multi-room project to create a transitional style inspired kitchen, bathroom and mudroom remodel featuring Merillat Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen perimeter cabinets are the Rockwell full overlay door style in a Moonshine finish, paired with kitchen island cabinets in the Mineral Grey finish. The kitchen also includes Jefferey Alexander Marlo Knobs and Sullivan Pulls in Polished Chrome. The mudroom cabinets are the Rockwell full overlay door style in a Mineral Grey finish. The flooring is Pacific Caramel 8x8 tile. The bathroom cabinets are the Rockwell full overlay door style in a Mineral Grey finish with a Nickel Linen Glaze. The bathroom also includes Picadilly Gloss Perla 4x12 tile with Thassos Bar Liner and Deep Ocean Stone Mosaic for the shower wall and Stateworks Lugnez 12x24 and 2x2 for the shower floor. Throughout these spaces, the countertops, knee wall toppers, shower curb and bench are Cambria Brittanicca quartz. Photos courtesy of BTW Images.

**Check out the video of this transformation on our website** This small kitchen was way too small for this 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms apartment. Not only was it a very small kitchen, but the physical location of it made it very difficult to make it any bigger. There wasn't much that could have been done without incurring astronomical cost, which would get little or no return on the investment. The client wanted a kitchen that can be optimized in its current location to add a ton of value for resale. This was difficult to do, because there was no moving of any mechanical around in the kitchen and even if we wanted to, the management of the building would not allow. For those of you who live in condos, co-ops or apartment building, you know how difficult it is to rework these foot prints. When we showed up, we saw the problems, but we also saw a huge opportunity where we can achieve those goals in the small space. This was accomplished by making some key changes and to incorporate some new things that was not possible when this kitchen was built years ago. The crucial part of the design that would drive the entire new layout, was selecting the only appliance; that was the Refrigerator. Once we nailed down that refrigerator, we then proceeded to design the kitchen around it. We moved it to the other side of the wall where the sink was so that we can tap into the water line from the sink plumbing. It was crucial that it stays exactly 24" deep, not an inch more because we had to keep the entry as open as possible. Also, it was going to be directly in front of another big storage unit - The pantry. It is not ideal in most cases, but we needed the rest of the space to ramp up the design and open feel towards the side where all of the activities would take place, which happend to be the dining room and the view. Once all that was figured out, we re-positioned the sink, dishwasher and the range and proceeded to wrap the cabinets around the columns to integrate them into the space. Thirty- six inches cabinets height was used so that they can be installed higher towards the ceiling height to give more room rather than the standard 18" required height between the counter tops. This was done to make the room feel a lot bigger than it really was. Not to mention, we also didn't want the faucet to be buried under the cabinets so that was also a necessary design detail for the space. We then lowered both knee walls so that the counter top can sit on top of them, by removing that stop point that would have otherwise defined the kitchen area. This allowed us to pick up that extra footprint into the room for added prep space and enabled us to create the illusion of a kitchen that is looking longer than it really is. Every inch mattered when designing this kitchen and we made a conscious decision to use every one of that inch. White cabinets were selected to do just what white cabinets are design to do; make a small or dark room appear bigger, brighter and more open. In this kitchen, this was amplified the more because of the kitchen location. It was perfect! We knew we did justice to the space because while we were there taking some photos, a few potential buyers walked in and went straight for the kitchen! They said its design just to fit the apartment. Pantry roll out shelving, Double recycle bin, fancy handles, LED lighting, Quartz counter top, beautiful backslash tiles and grey linen floors finished off the kitchen which looked over a beautiful view of the George Washington Bridge from the top of this lovely 4th floor apartment. Credit to Masterpiece Tile and Marble (Annmarie on the selection of Tiles and countertop and Val on the Construction to complete this project). Davor Kokic Photography

Photo by Bruce Frame. Another view of the master bedroom showcases the custom built-ins that flank the fireplace. With luscious carpet so deep you nearly sink to your knees, this master bedroom is truly a place to get away from it all.

Picture sitting back in a chair reading a book to some slow jazz. You take a deep breathe and look up and this is your view. As you walk up with the matches you notice the plated wall with contemporary art lighted for your enjoyment. You light the fire with your knee pressed against a blue-toned marble. Then you slowly walk back to your chair over a dark Harwood floor. This is your Reading Room.

**Check out the video of this transformation on our website** This small kitchen was way too small for this 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms apartment. Not only was it a very small kitchen, but the physical location of it made it very difficult to make it any bigger. There wasn't much that could have been done without incurring astronomical cost, which would get little or no return on the investment. The client wanted a kitchen that can be optimized in its current location to add a ton of value for resale. This was difficult to do, because there was no moving of any mechanical around in the kitchen and even if we wanted to, the management of the building would not allow. For those of you who live in condos, co-ops or apartment building, you know how difficult it is to rework these foot prints. When we showed up, we saw the problems, but we also saw a huge opportunity where we can achieve those goals in the small space. This was accomplished by making some key changes and to incorporate some new things that was not possible when this kitchen was built years ago. The crucial part of the design that would drive the entire new layout, was selecting the only appliance; that was the Refrigerator. Once we nailed down that refrigerator, we then proceeded to design the kitchen around it. We moved it to the other side of the wall where the sink was so that we can tap into the water line from the sink plumbing. It was crucial that it stays exactly 24" deep, not an inch more because we had to keep the entry as open as possible. Also, it was going to be directly in front of another big storage unit - The pantry. It is not ideal in most cases, but we needed the rest of the space to ramp up the design and open feel towards the side where all of the activities would take place, which happend to be the dining room and the view. Once all that was figured out, we re-positioned the sink, dishwasher and the range and proceeded to wrap the cabinets around the columns to integrate them into the space. Thirty- six inches cabinets height was used so that they can be installed higher towards the ceiling height to give more room rather than the standard 18" required height between the counter tops. This was done to make the room feel a lot bigger than it really was. Not to mention, we also didn't want the faucet to be buried under the cabinets so that was also a necessary design detail for the space. We then lowered both knee walls so that the counter top can sit on top of them, by removing that stop point that would have otherwise defined the kitchen area. This allowed us to pick up that extra footprint into the room for added prep space and enabled us to create the illusion of a kitchen that is looking longer than it really is. Every inch mattered when designing this kitchen and we made a conscious decision to use every one of that inch. White cabinets were selected to do just what white cabinets are design to do; make a small or dark room appear bigger, brighter and more open. In this kitchen, this was amplified the more because of the kitchen location. It was perfect! We knew we did justice to the space because while we were there taking some photos, a few potential buyers walked in and went straight for the kitchen! They said its design just to fit the apartment. Pantry roll out shelving, Double recycle bin, fancy handles, LED lighting, Quartz counter top, beautiful backslash tiles and grey linen floors finished off the kitchen which looked over a beautiful view of the George Washington Bridge from the top of this lovely 4th floor apartment. Credit to Masterpiece Tile and Marble (Annmarie on the selection of Tiles and countertop and Val on the Construction to complete this project). Davor Kokic Photography

The island with the contemporary pendant fixtures was designed to be the focal point of the room. The kitchen ceiling was raised to visually enlarge the space. A lighter color scheme was incorporated to create a calming, less dreary atmosphere. The new 36” stainless steel French door standard refrigerator provides more storage for food and beverage. It was moved closer to the cooking space to improve the work triangle with added landing space on its left. The linoleum floor was replaced with new hardwood floor to have a continuous look from the living room and hallway.

Repeating Weathered Antique Timber post and beam portal frames line this hallway, turning a transitional corridor into an architectural feature in its own right. The dark walnut and chocolate brown tones, deep checking, and heavily weathered surface texture of these old growth hardwoods create a sense of depth and history that draws you through the space. Each of our Weathered Antique Timbers is sourced directly from 19th and early 20th century structures. The century of weathering they carry gives them a character and warmth that no modern timber can replicate. At Manomin Resawn Timbers, every piece goes through a detailed process of denailing, kiln drying, and precision milling so that antique character is preserved while performing beautifully in a modern home. Whether you are a homebuilder, a home remodeling contractor, or a homeowner looking to bring reclaimed wood timber framing into a hallway, entryway, or transition zone, Manomin Resawn Timbers has been helping people discover the antique charm of reclaimed wood since 2002. We serve homebuilders, contractors, and designers across the country. Visit our showroom in Hugo, MN or reach out to us with a call or a message to get started. Image via Landmark Photography

By relocating the narrow linen closet to the sitting room outside the bathroom, we expanded the shower and embraced the blue inspiration our client desired, using deep blue 2×8 glass shower wall tiles and a glass mosaic penny round tile on the shower floor and in the shower niche. On the opposite side of the spacious area, a knee wall was added to offer separation between the toilet and vanity. Framing the vanity is a stunning statement wallpaper, adding a vibrant pop of pattern. Beyond aesthetics, this remodel expertly balances luxury and functionality, harmonizing contemporary fixtures and ambient lighting. This luxurious Primary Bathroom remodel redefines comfort and sophistication within a serene space, marking a remarkable journey from the mundane to the magnificent.

This guest tree house was truly and amazing project to be a part of. The foundation of this structure rest squarely on the tree themselves, through the intervention of 4 tree house attachment bolts (TABs) and numerous knee braces with specialized brackets. All of the siding, roof and rails are made from red cedar, brought in from various sources from around the country. The cupola was and idea introduced while the roof was being constructed and really adds another level of appeal to this already beautiful getaway. The mortise and tenon railings were shapped and built by one of our Amish friends delivering the look and feel of a rustic tree escape deep in the woods. And when it's time to head back to reality, a zip line ride to the ground seems like the suitable way to go.

By relocating the narrow linen closet to the sitting room outside the bathroom, we expanded the shower and embraced the blue inspiration our client desired, using deep blue 2×8 glass shower wall tiles and a glass mosaic penny round tile on the shower floor and in the shower niche. On the opposite side of the spacious area, a knee wall was added to offer separation between the toilet and vanity. Framing the vanity is a stunning statement wallpaper, adding a vibrant pop of pattern. Beyond aesthetics, this remodel expertly balances luxury and functionality, harmonizing contemporary fixtures and ambient lighting. This luxurious Primary Bathroom remodel redefines comfort and sophistication within a serene space, marking a remarkable journey from the mundane to the magnificent.

Katherine Dashiell of Reico Kitchen and Bath in Annapolis, MD collaborated with Lauer Construction on this multi-room project to create a transitional style inspired kitchen, bathroom and mudroom remodel featuring Merillat Masterpiece cabinetry. The kitchen perimeter cabinets are the Rockwell full overlay door style in a Moonshine finish, paired with kitchen island cabinets in the Mineral Grey finish. The kitchen also includes Jefferey Alexander Marlo Knobs and Sullivan Pulls in Polished Chrome. The mudroom cabinets are the Rockwell full overlay door style in a Mineral Grey finish. The flooring is Pacific Caramel 8x8 tile. The bathroom cabinets are the Rockwell full overlay door style in a Mineral Grey finish with a Nickel Linen Glaze. The bathroom also includes Picadilly Gloss Perla 4x12 tile with Thassos Bar Liner and Deep Ocean Stone Mosaic for the shower wall and Stateworks Lugnez 12x24 and 2x2 for the shower floor. Throughout these spaces, the countertops, knee wall toppers, shower curb and bench are Cambria Brittanicca quartz. Photos courtesy of BTW Images.