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

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The Brahmin - in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Every area of this home is designed to be spacious and accommodating. Its supersized nook area, the extra-large Pantry area to handle all the trips from Costco, down to the oversized Mud Room with benches, cubbies and large closet, to the spacious Guest Room with a private bath all of which are on the Main floor, but wait there is more! Head through the corner of the kitchen and you’ll find the “12th man Room” an incredibly cozy sized room, that features a 2nd Fireplace, Vaulted Ceilings, a Wet Bar with an under cabinet refrigerator, a sink, microwave for the popcorn and last but not least the Big Screen for Game Day! Be the Fan! Sit down, immerse yourself into the couch and turn it up! Commercial or Halftime?, …..just head outside and enjoy a breath of fresh air in the oversized back yard and throw some ball to remember the old days or drift into your favorite athlete’s stance and get geared up for the second half! Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The Brahmin - in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Every area of this home is designed to be spacious and accommodating. Its supersized nook area, the extra-large Pantry area to handle all the trips from Costco, down to the oversized Mud Room with benches, cubbies and large closet, to the spacious Guest Room with a private bath all of which are on the Main floor, but wait there is more! Head through the corner of the kitchen and you’ll find the “12th man Room” an incredibly cozy sized room, that features a 2nd Fireplace, Vaulted Ceilings, a Wet Bar with an under cabinet refrigerator, a sink, microwave for the popcorn and last but not least the Big Screen for Game Day! Be the Fan! Sit down, immerse yourself into the couch and turn it up! Commercial or Halftime?, …..just head outside and enjoy a breath of fresh air in the oversized back yard and throw some ball to remember the old days or drift into your favorite athlete’s stance and get geared up for the second half! Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Klopf Architecture, Arterra Landscape Architects and Henry Calvert of Calvert Ventures Designed and built a new warm, modern, Eichler-inspired, open, indoor-outdoor home on a deeper-than-usual San Mateo Highlands property where an original Eichler house had burned to the ground. The owners wanted multi-generational living and larger spaces than the original home offered, but all parties agreed that the house should respect the neighborhood and blend in stylistically with the other Eichlers. At first the Klopf team considered re-using what little was left of the original home and expanding on it. But after discussions with the owner and builder, all parties agreed that the last few remaining elements of the house were not practical to re-use, so Klopf Architecture designed a new home that pushes the Eichler approach in new directions. One disadvantage of Eichler production homes is that the house designs were not optimized for each specific lot. A new custom home offered the team a chance to start over. In this case, a longer house that opens up sideways to the south fit the lot better than the original square-ish house that used to open to the rear (west). Accordingly, the Klopf team designed an L-shaped “bar” house with a large glass wall with large sliding glass doors that faces sideways instead of to the rear like a typical Eichler. This glass wall opens to a pool and landscaped yard designed by Arterra Landscape Architects. Driving by the house, one might assume at first glance it is an Eichler because of the horizontality, the overhanging flat roof eaves, the dark gray vertical siding, and orange solid panel front door, but the house is designed for the 21st Century and is not meant to be a “Likeler.” You won't see any posts and beams in this home. Instead, the ceiling decking is a western red cedar that covers over all the beams. Like Eichlers, this cedar runs continuously from inside to out, enhancing the indoor / outdoor feeling of the house, but unlike Eichlers it conceals a cavity for lighting, wiring, and insulation. Ceilings are higher, rooms are larger and more open, the master bathroom is light-filled and more generous, with a separate tub and shower and a separate toilet compartment, and there is plenty of storage. The garage even easily fits two of today's vehicles with room to spare. A massive 49-foot by 12-foot wall of glass and the continuity of materials from inside to outside enhance the inside-outside living concept, so the owners and their guests can flow freely from house to pool deck to BBQ to pool and back. During construction in the rough framing stage, Klopf thought the front of the house appeared too tall even though the house had looked right in the design renderings (probably because the house is uphill from the street). So Klopf Architecture paid the framer to change the roofline from how we had designed it to be lower along the front, allowing the home to blend in better with the neighborhood. One project goal was for people driving up the street to pass the home without immediately noticing there is an "imposter" on this lot, and making that change was essential to achieve that goal. This 2,606 square foot, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom Eichler-inspired new house is located in San Mateo in the heart of the Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane Landscape Architect: Arterra Landscape Architects Contractor: Henry Calvert of Calvert Ventures Photography ©2016 Mariko Reed Location: San Mateo, CA Year completed: 2016

Design Statement: My design challenge was to create and build a new ultra modern kitchen with a futuristic flare. This state of the art kitchen was to be equipped with an ample amount of usable storage and a better view of the outside while balancing design and function. Some of the project goals were to include the following; a multi-level island with seating for four people, dramatic use of lighting, state of the art appliances, a generous view of the outside and last but not least, to create a kitchen space that looks like no other...”The WOW Factor”. This challenging project was a completely new design and full renovation. The existing kitchen was outdated and in desperate need help. My new design required me to remove existing walls, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing, electric…a complete demolition. My job functions were to be the interior designer, GC, electrician and a laborer. Construction and Design The existing kitchen had one small window in it like many kitchens. The main difficulty was…how to create more windows while gaining more cabinet storage. As a designer, our clients require us to think out of the box and give them something that they may have never dreamed of. I did just that. I created two 8’ glass backsplashes (with no visible supports) on the corner of the house. This was not easy task, engineering of massive blind headers and lam beams were used to support the load of the new floating walls. A generous amount of 48” high wall cabinets flank the new walls and appear floating in air seamlessly above the glass backsplash. Technology and Design The dramatic use of the latest in LED lighting was used. From color changing accent lights, high powered multi-directional spot lights, decorative soffit lights, under cabinet and above cabinet LED tape lights…all to be controlled from wall panels or mobile devises. A built-in ipad also controls not only the lighting, but a climate controlled thermostat, house wide music streaming with individually controlled zones, alarm system, video surveillance system and door bell. Materials and design Large amounts of glass and gloss; glass backsplash, iridescent glass tiles, raised glass island counter top, Quartz counter top with iridescent glass chips infused in it. 24” x 24” high polished porcelain tile flooring to give the appearance of water or glass. The custom cabinets are high gloss lacquer with a metallic fleck. All doors and drawers are Blum soft-close. The result is an ultra sleek and highly sophisticated design. Appliances and design All appliances were chosen for the ultimate in sleekness. These appliances include: a 48” built-in custom paneled subzero refrigerator/freezer, a built-in Miele dishwasher that is so quiet that it shoots a red led light on the floor to let you know that its on., a 36” Miele induction cook top and a built-in 200 bottle wine cooler. Some other cool features are the led kitchen faucet that changes color based on the water temperature. A stainless and glass wall hood with led lights. All duct work was built into the stainless steel toe kicks and grooves were cut into it to release airflow. Photography by Mark Oser

Photo of a southwestern landscaping in Phoenix.

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

How to Tell When a Design Trend is Timeless Design trends come and go, but some styles withstand the test of time. Whether in architecture, interior design, or branding, timeless design is one that remains relevant and appealing for decades. But how can you tell if a trend is truly timeless or just a fleeting fad? Here are key indicators to help you identify designs that will never go out of style. 1. Simplicity Over Complexity Timeless designs are often clean, simple, and functional. They avoid excessive ornamentation or gimmicky elements that might feel outdated in a few years. Classic materials, neutral color palettes, and well-balanced proportions contribute to a look that remains fresh over time. 2. Rooted in Functionality If a design prioritizes function as much as form, it is more likely to endure. Practicality and usability should be at the core, ensuring that the design continues to serve its purpose efficiently. In construction, for example, well-planned layouts and durable materials contribute to long-lasting appeal. 3. Inspired by Nature Natural elements, such as stone, wood, and earth tones, have always been a staple of timeless design. Since nature itself is everlasting, incorporating organic textures and colors helps create a look that never feels outdated. 4. Influenced by History, Not Hype Timeless designs often take cues from historical influences that have proven their longevity. Architectural styles like mid-century modern, classical, and industrial remain relevant because they have strong foundations in design principles rather than passing fads. 5. Balanced and Harmonious Composition Good design follows fundamental principles such as symmetry, proportion, and scale. If a trend maintains a sense of balance and harmony, it’s more likely to stand the test of time. Designs that feel chaotic or unbalanced tend to fade quickly as they become overwhelming or impractical. 6. Adaptability Across Different Eras A timeless design is versatile enough to blend with evolving styles and trends. Whether paired with modern elements or classic details, it should integrate seamlessly without looking out of place. 7. Enduring Materials and Craftsmanship Materials and craftsmanship play a major role in a design’s longevity. High-quality materials like marble, hardwood, and concrete age beautifully, while cheap, synthetic alternatives often deteriorate and lose appeal. Investing in quality ensures a long-lasting impact. 8. Avoiding Overly Trendy Details Fads are often characterized by extreme variations in color, form, or material. If a design heavily relies on a specific moment’s aesthetic (like neon colors in the '80s or millennial pink in the 2010s), it will likely feel outdated once the hype fades. 9. Emotional Connection and Comfort Timeless design tends to evoke a sense of comfort, nostalgia, or familiarity. Whether in architecture, web design, or fashion, people gravitate toward designs that make them feel at ease and connected to something meaningful. Conclusion The key to identifying a timeless design trend is recognizing qualities that prioritize longevity, function, and balance over fleeting hype. Whether designing a website, a home, or a brand identity, choosing elements that are simple, high-quality, and adaptable will ensure lasting appeal. Do you want a design that stands the test of time? Let’s create something that never goes out of style!

Kitchen with dark brown walls and stained wood cabinets
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional u-shaped light wood floor open concept kitchen remodel in St Louis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, light wood cabinets, granite countertops, brown backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Inquire About Our Design Services When we first started talking in the spring of 2015, I was impressed. She was witty, realistic, and understood that as much as she loves my shows on HGTV, design does not does not happen in 43 minutes! She told me about her space, and how she felt that her bedroom seemed “blah” to her. She had no retreat. Molly desperately longed for a place that she could spend time in, read in, play in and above all, relax in. What we did: Many people are terrified of hiring a designer. Rightfully so, they are investing a pretty penny in their homes. They want to make sure that everything, down to the last floral arrangement, is to their liking, because they will have to live it (and pay for it). Unfortunately, a client can unintentionally stifle a designer’s creativity through micro-management. This can produce lackluster results and ultimately cause more time (and money) to be spent on a project than is really necessary. With Molly, that was never an issue. Before she even showed me the room in question, she said that I could have full creative license to do what I needed to do to her bedroom. SAY WHAAH!? With Molly giving me complete creative freedom, I planned everything out and got down to business. The result: Bite-your-bottom-lip sexy. I don’t get jealous of too many of my clients’ spaces, but this one still takes my breath away every time I look at the pics! The craziest part was that by adding more furniture, it actually made the space feel larger. Molly and her husband Patrick loved the finished space, and promised me I will be back to finish the rest of the house! Here’s the highlights of the rest of the project: I came up with a space plan with three options. Next, we reviewed mood boards and fabric schemes that would work for both Molly and her hubby Patrick. We started with the bed. My goal was to add edge to its otherwise traditional style. We decided to spice things up by painting the trim work in the room black. We built in layers of lighting with dimmers. In a bedroom everything should be on dimmers, right? Right. We designed and customized bedding, chairs and window treatments. Together with Molly, we selected the most perfect wallpaper. This geometric “grasscloth” adds so much depth and dimension that was just missing before. What I love: That light fixture. I mean it is really, really amazing in person. The porcupine mirror. This thing came packaged like it was the hope diamond, and everyone was terrified to handle it. But it really became a highlight of the room.

Inspiration for a huge timeless wooden curved marble floor staircase remodel in New York with white walls and wooden risers

The homeowners chose to install perimeter cabinets using Dynasty by Omega. They chose the Madrid door style, Cherry wood, and a truffle stain. As for the island cabinets, they wanted the Madrid door style and Maple wood and then opted for the Pearl paint. The countertops are quartz and the island is granite. Before the renovation started, the homeowners selected Jenn-Air appliances, including an induction cooktop and built-in microwave oven with speed cook. Once the construction was underway, we removed the bulkheads to allow new cabinets that extended to the ceiling with two PC crown molding. This provided a cleaner, more modern look along with added storage for items that are occasionally used. We also swapped the pantry and refrigerator location to open up space as you enter the kitchen from the garage. The redesign also gave the refrigerator a built-in look. Then, we moved the cooktop to the corner and installed stainless steel Zephyr range hood and beveled subway tile in a herringbone pattern. The backsplash and new cooktop turned the most used area of the kitchen into a design feature. The addition of an enlarged island allows extra seating for up to four people. Moreover, island cabinets include two full-sized waste baskets for recycling and standard waste. The new farmhouse sink from Kohler not only looks and functions well but the drain is positioned at the rear corner. The plumbing in the cabinet below is consolidated to the back corner providing much more storage. Last, the built-in TV not only looks great but also reduces counter clutter. Plus, the drawer below the TV contains USB outlet for small personal device charging.

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling. All of the ideas featured in this build were challenging. Rising to the challange and building homes that we're proud to put our name on is what we do. We hope you enjoy our work and this homeowner's shabby chic selections! Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

The homeowners chose to install perimeter cabinets using Dynasty by Omega. They chose the Madrid door style, Cherry wood, and a truffle stain. As for the island cabinets, they wanted the Madrid door style and Maple wood and then opted for the Pearl paint. The countertops are quartz and the island is granite. Before the renovation started, the homeowners selected Jenn-Air appliances, including an induction cooktop and built-in microwave oven with speed cook. Once the construction was underway, we removed the bulkheads to allow new cabinets that extended to the ceiling with two PC crown molding. This provided a cleaner, more modern look along with added storage for items that are occasionally used. We also swapped the pantry and refrigerator location to open up space as you enter the kitchen from the garage. The redesign also gave the refrigerator a built-in look. Then, we moved the cooktop to the corner and installed stainless steel Zephyr range hood and beveled subway tile in a herringbone pattern. The backsplash and new cooktop turned the most used area of the kitchen into a design feature. The addition of an enlarged island allows extra seating for up to four people. Moreover, island cabinets include two full-sized waste baskets for recycling and standard waste. The new farmhouse sink from Kohler not only looks and functions well but the drain is positioned at the rear corner. The plumbing in the cabinet below is consolidated to the back corner providing much more storage. Last, the built-in TV not only looks great but also reduces counter clutter. Plus, the drawer below the TV contains USB outlet for small personal device charging.

Our clients' main focus on this project was making a spectacular bar! As a wine connoisseur and enthusiast, she wanted to make this moment of her house, central to any visitor's experience as well as her own! The bar was originally located in a large hallway, cut off from the Great Room and with a door to the basement adjacent to its location; it forced us to consider these elements of her house in the design of our clients' new bar. The main challenge of this project was making the bar feel like its own space and experience, not something you walk by in the hallway. Included in this challenge was to incorporate the bar space into the re-planning of the Great Room, Kitchen and Dining Room spaces as well. We really wanted to open up the main level public spaces to provide a nice flow and more functional space for our client and her family. For the design of this new bar, we made a few key changes to integrate it better with the other living spaces on the main level. First, we reworked the entrance to the basement and hid the door behind the bar. Next, we opened up the wall and relocated the fireplace in the Great Room to create a direct connection between the bar and Great Room. Then, we shifted the entrance to the Dining Room to be adjacent to the Bar as well as in direct line with the Kitchen. Lastly, we designed the bar with maximum bar stool seating as well as created a custom foot rail to allow additional comfort for those seated as well as added more "space" for people to stand comfortable on the adjacent side of the bar. All of these design moves allowed the bar to be a central focus of the clients' main level and a pivotal place for gathering and entertaining.