This private studio, built in collaboration with producer, engineer, and pianist Ian Miller, is a fully custom creative space designed around his workflow and artistic process. The project blended NILES’ technical execution with Ian’s hands-on finishing work, resulting in a studio where every corner has intention and every system supports a seamless, plug-and-play workflow. The structure began as a barn-style two-car garage with a second floor. After exploring several layouts and engineering options, we landed on a design that leveraged the high ceilings and existing footprint to create a dynamic and spacious acoustic environment. Generous daylight from surrounding windows connects the interior to the outdoors, while layered textures, warm tones, and custom finishes create a grounded yet inspiring atmosphere. The Control Room is fully isolated from the rest of the building with sound-reducing wall systems, a full soft-ceiling bass trap, tuned corner traps, treatment throughout, and full-lite doors for controlled transmission and visibility. Though modest in size, it delivers accurate monitoring and integrates smoothly with the larger live environment. Roasted Bean Studio was built to support any direction Ian pursues—from producing to mixing to live performance. The space provides the sonic palette and creative flexibility needed for a wide range of projects, offering a visually inspiring and acoustically reliable environment that empowers his work every day.

this Traditional-inspired kitchen remodel, we aimed to transition an outdated, warm-wooded space into a vibrant, expansive gathering spot with minimal layout alterations. By introducing new cabinets and adopting a fresh color scheme, we swiftly revitalized the area, giving it an added brightness and a sense of airiness. The key to the transformation lay in reimagining the layout – removing the counter barstool space and replacing it with an island instantly ushered in an open-concept plan, enhancing the kitchen's spaciousness and facilitating seamless movement within the area. What's remarkable about this renovation is that it leveraged existing elements while making only minor adjustments, yet the impact was nothing short of profound. Through thoughtful design choices, strategic modifications, and plenty of smart storage solutions, we achieved a complete new creation.

This century home traditional kitchen renovation leveraged a monochromatic colour scheme with lots of textures and details to break up the space. We added lots of details to keep the date of the house with a modern twist. The kitchen remodel includes: - Corbels for open shelving - Step shaker style doors - Beautiful large crown to accentuate the 10' high ceilings - A large industrial faucet with a traditional twist to accentuate the original window - Clear glass doors for the modern feel - One feature mullioned door as an accent to keep with the age of the house - Relocation of fridge to accommodate more countertop space - Apron front sink in Siligranite for practicality in a "Chefs" kitchen - Additional pantry storage as there was none previously - Tons of additional in-cabinet and under cabinet lighting - Traditional marble backsplash to create a textured look, while not competing for attention against the countertop - Quartz counter top - Knobs on upper cabinets and pulls on lower cabinets for a traditional look - Knobs have a linear edge for a modern twist - Pot filler over industrial stove to make a century home kitchen into a "chefs" kitchen

Transform your home’s exterior with the experts at Perfect Windows & Siding! Proudly serving Des Plaines, IL, 60016, since 2025, we specialize in premium window replacement and installation services. As a trusted window replacement company, we are committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, top-tier products, and competitive pricing to our Chicagoland neighbors. Are you searching for "window replacement near me" or "window installation near me"? Look no further! Our skilled team is dedicated to enhancing your home with energy-efficient windows that boost curb appeal and elevate comfort. Whether you need to replace old windows or commence a brand-new window installation project, we have the expertise and local knowledge to bring your vision to life. Leveraging years of experience in exterior improvements, we ensure every aspect of your window installation project is handled with precision. Our commitment to quality has made us a go-to choice for Des Plaines homeowners who prioritize both aesthetics and functionality. Experience the difference with Perfect Windows & Siding—where community ties and unrivaled service meet. Contact us today to discover how we can transform your home with expert window solutions perfectly tailored to your needs. From consultation to installation, trust us to provide a seamless, stress-free experience for all your window replacement needs in Des Plaines, Illinois.

Leveraging sheer roller shades to diffuse hot sunlight even during peak hours enables turning major discomfort into a pleasant use of natural lighting. For kitchen areas and dining rooms, roller shades offer an amazingly practical solution that harnesses daylight for illumination, without the overbearing glare and blaze. With various colorful patterns and even stark aesthetics, roller shades on windows provide effective sunlight management that complements the rest of the room’s design scheme. Get in touch with Master Blinds at 877-708-5883 for a free in-person consultation with no obligation on high-end made-to-measure window coverings for any part of your household.

this Traditional-inspired kitchen remodel, we aimed to transition an outdated, warm-wooded space into a vibrant, expansive gathering spot with minimal layout alterations. By introducing new cabinets and adopting a fresh color scheme, we swiftly revitalized the area, giving it an added brightness and a sense of airiness. The key to the transformation lay in reimagining the layout – removing the counter barstool space and replacing it with an island instantly ushered in an open-concept plan, enhancing the kitchen's spaciousness and facilitating seamless movement within the area. What's remarkable about this renovation is that it leveraged existing elements while making only minor adjustments, yet the impact was nothing short of profound. Through thoughtful design choices, strategic modifications, and plenty of smart storage solutions, we achieved a complete new creation.

Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Farmhouse chic is a delightful balance of design styles that creates a countryside, stress-free, yet contemporary atmosphere. It's much warmer and more uplifting than minimalism. ... Contemporary farmhouse style coordinates clean lines, multiple layers of texture, neutral paint colors and natural finishes. We leveraged the open floor plan to keep this space nice and open while still having defined living areas. The soft tones are consistent throughout the house to help keep the continuity and allow for pops of color or texture to make each room special.

Inspired by the Spanish-style architecture of a cherished multi-generational family property, this project aimed to transform it into a Spanish Revival masterpiece while preserving its rich history. By honoring the architectural features and majestic shade trees, the landscape was revitalized to create a lush and vibrant environment. Careful selection and incorporation of diverse plant species added aesthetic value and enhanced biodiversity across the expansive two-acre property. Leveraging the presence of large shade trees, a unique microclimate was created, allowing for the cultivation of distinctive plant styles that thrived in their canopy. This project seamlessly integrated "revival" elements, preserving aesthetics and embracing a revitalized future, harmoniously blending lushness, color diversity, and the advantages of existing shade trees.

Transform your home’s exterior with the experts at Perfect Windows & Siding! Proudly serving Des Plaines, IL, 60016, since 2025, we specialize in premium window replacement and installation services. As a trusted window replacement company, we are committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, top-tier products, and competitive pricing to our Chicagoland neighbors. Are you searching for "window replacement near me" or "window installation near me"? Look no further! Our skilled team is dedicated to enhancing your home with energy-efficient windows that boost curb appeal and elevate comfort. Whether you need to replace old windows or commence a brand-new window installation project, we have the expertise and local knowledge to bring your vision to life. Leveraging years of experience in exterior improvements, we ensure every aspect of your window installation project is handled with precision. Our commitment to quality has made us a go-to choice for Des Plaines homeowners who prioritize both aesthetics and functionality. Experience the difference with Perfect Windows & Siding—where community ties and unrivaled service meet. Contact us today to discover how we can transform your home with expert window solutions perfectly tailored to your needs. From consultation to installation, trust us to provide a seamless, stress-free experience for all your window replacement needs in Des Plaines, Illinois.

Our homes are resilient, adaptable, and when combined with Solar can be built to zero energy standards. Designs come complete with Solar ready features, LED Lighting, structured wiring, and expandable building automation technology. Ultra efficient mechanical equipment with small diameter ducts and variable speed blowers reduce energy use and ensure consistent temperatures between rooms, zones, and floors. Modular Prefabrication offers a smarter building system that leverages manufacturing efficiency, advanced engineering technology, and highly skilled labor to precisely produce high quality, durable, and efficient buildings in a fraction of the time needed in traditional construction. This is not your standard prefab home! EcoCraft homes are designed and constructed to provide our home owners with a look and feel that is unlike anything you have ever experienced!

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

A sophisticated, yet livable, redesign took this Mediterranean-style home from old-world to a transitional/soft contemporary look. Opting to acknowledge the client’s past New York, Miami and LA residences, modern touches were added throughout. Leveraging the new kitchen backsplash, mixed hues and patterns of blues and grays flow through each room, adding cohesive style as well as needed pops of color. The neutral color palette of the main upholstery pieces and multi-colored artwork allows the homeowner’s future flexibility to introduce different colored accents to their rooms, creating new looks and maximizing the possibilities within their existing design. In the main living space, a dramatic, large-scale tile design created a newly-defined statement wall in the family room—balancing the originally problematic offset fireplace. The oyster shell artwork above the fireplace, geometric etagere, and soft and sleek seating complement the tile and allow it to remain a grounding element in the room, while colorful artwork, rugs, and upholstery ensure the room stays lively. The brightly lit dining room boasts a bold blue hue and dramatic drapery to make an impactful statement without upstaging the rest of the surrounding rooms. A mica-chipped accent wall in the bedroom was the perfect backdrop to the white lacquer and chrome details in the furnishings. We added additional vivid fuchsia accents (the clients’ favorite color) and fuzzy textures to balance the edgy details, keeping an overall soft, feminine look.

This new construction residence in the prestigious Stonebriar Creek Estates embraces refined rustic elements with transitional styling to create a beautiful classic home full of luxury features. We designed this home from the ground up, selecting all finishes and fixtures. We had a blast co-creating with the homeowners to attain their perfectly designed dream home. One of our favorite parts in the home are the exquisite Panoramic doors which span across the back of the house to let the outdoors in with visual impact and allow viewing the beautiful backyard from all of the first floor main rooms. Even better, the door panels can be positioned in a variety of ways to allow a completely open back of the house or in strategic ways to direct traffic flow when entertaining a large number of guests. Another show stopper is the kitchen island stone, a semi-precious find that uniquely captures all of the homeowners’ favorite colors and will be leveraged throughout the future furnishings.

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

THE SETUP Client Background: Our clients, a couple who have transitioned into the empty nest phase, have cherished their home for over three decades without undergoing any significant renovations. With a newfound desire to adapt their living space to better suit their current lifestyle, they’ve embarked on a journey to reimagine their kitchen — the heart of their home. Their aspiration is to cultivate a serene, neutral-toned sanctuary on the first floor that seamlessly merges with their family room, ensuring a harmonious and inviting environment. Design Inspiration: The renovation is inspired by the couple’s penchant for soft, calming neutrals, using their cherished family room and the kitchen’s existing tile flooring as the cornerstone for the color scheme. This approach aims to foster a sense of warmth and tranquility throughout. Design Objectives: Harmonize the kitchen with the family room by adopting a soothing, neutral color scheme, ensuring a seamless flow across the first floor. Enhance kitchen functionality with thoughtfully designed cabinetry, providing a designated place for every item and maximizing storage efficiency. Cultivate an inviting and comfortable atmosphere that reflects the homeowners’ desire for a calm and relaxing space. Design Challenges: The homeowners wish to retain the existing kitchen tile flooring and integrate it into a refreshed, modern design. Accommodating a dining area spacious enough for family visits without compromising the kitchen’s open feel or functional layout. Despite liking the current placement of plumbing and appliances, the homeowners aspire for a more open floor plan to facilitate better movement and interaction. The need to amplify natural light in the kitchen, especially around the sink area, where existing lighting is insufficient. Preserving the half-wall between the kitchen and family room, a feature the homeowners want to keep, while ensuring it complements the new design. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: By choosing a neutral color palette that complements the existing tile, the design unifies the kitchen with the adjacent spaces. The tile’s grout was cleaned and restored, enhancing the floor’s appearance and integrating it seamlessly with the new kitchen aesthetic. The inclusion of a larger island with seating for two, alongside maintaining a substantial dining table, was achieved by optimizing the spatial layout. This allowed for a sociable yet functional kitchen, accommodating large family gatherings without feeling crowded. Minor adjustments to the kitchen’s layout maintained the preferred locations for plumbing and appliances while introducing an ‘open’ design concept. Strategic modifications, such as angling the pantry wall, improved the flow and accessibility within the space. Replacing the garden window with a broader, standard window significantly increased natural light, transforming the sink area into a bright, welcoming space with enhanced views of the outdoors. The decision to keep the half-wall was ingeniously leveraged to define the dining area while maintaining an open connection to the family room. This feature not only serves as a visual separator but also ties the two spaces together through the shared color scheme and design elements. The homeowners are thrilled with their newly remodeled kitchen, which has become a hub of warmth and hospitality. Hosting a wedding shower and a birthday party, they have shared their renewed space with friends and family, who have been equally enamored. This remodel has not only met their functional and aesthetic desires but has also enriched their home with a fresh sense of serenity and joy. The upstairs part of the home is shaping up nicely. Here’s their newly remodeled primary bathroom.

Our homes are resilient, adaptable, and when combined with Solar can be built to zero energy standards. Designs come complete with Solar ready features, LED Lighting, structured wiring, and expandable building automation technology. Ultra efficient mechanical equipment with small diameter ducts and variable speed blowers reduce energy use and ensure consistent temperatures between rooms, zones, and floors. Modular Prefabrication offers a smarter building system that leverages manufacturing efficiency, advanced engineering technology, and highly skilled labor to precisely produce high quality, durable, and efficient buildings in a fraction of the time needed in traditional construction. This is not your standard prefab home! EcoCraft homes are designed and constructed to provide our home owners with a look and feel that is unlike anything you have ever experienced!

This beautiful yet highly functional space was remodeled for a busy, active family. Flush ceiling beams joined two rooms, and the back wall was extended out six feet to create a new, open layout with areas for cooking, dining, and entertaining. The homeowner is a decorator with a vision for the new kitchen that leverages low-maintenance materials with modern, clean lines. Durable Quartz countertops and full-height slab backsplash sit atop white overlay cabinets around the perimeter, with angled shaker doors and matte brass hardware adding polish. There is a functional “working” island for cooking, storage, and an integrated microwave, as well as a second waterfall-edge island delineated for seating. A soft slate black was chosen for the bases of both islands to ground the center of the space and set them apart from the perimeter. The custom stainless-steel hood features “Cartier” screws detailing matte brass accents and anchors the Wolf 48” dual fuel range. A new window, framed by glass display cabinets, adds brightness along the rear wall, with dark herringbone floors creating a solid presence throughout the space.