Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW For many, extra time at home during COVID left them wanting more from their homes. Whether you realized the shortcomings of your space or simply wanted to combat boredom, a well-designed and functional home was no longer a want, it became a need. Tina found herself wanting more from her Old Irving Park home and reached out to The Kitchen Studio about adding function to her kitchen to make the most of the available real estate. At the end of the day, there is nothing better than returning home to a bright and happy space you love. And this kitchen wasn’t that for Tina. Dark and dated, with a palette from the past and features that didn’t make the most of the available square footage, this remodel required vision and a fresh approach to the space. Lead designer, Stephanie Cole’s main design goal was better flow, while adding greater functionality with organized storage, accessible open shelving, and an overall sense of cohesion with the adjoining family room. The original kitchen featured a large pizza oven, which was rarely used, yet its footprint limited storage space. The nearby pantry had become a catch-all, lacking the organization needed in the home. The initial plan was to keep the pizza oven, but eventually Tina realized she preferred the design possibilities that came from removing this cumbersome feature, with the goal of adding function throughout the upgraded and elevated space. Eliminating the pantry added square footage and length to the kitchen for greater function and more storage. This redesigned space reflects how she lives and uses her home, as well as her love for entertaining. The kitchen features a classic, clean, and timeless palette. White cabinetry, with brass and bronze finishes, contrasts with rich wood flooring, and lets the large, deep blue island in Woodland’s custom color Harbor – a neutral, yet statement color – draw your eye. The kitchen was the main priority. In addition to updating and elevating this space, Tina wanted to maximize what her home had to offer. From moving the location of the patio door and eliminating a window to removing an existing closet in the mudroom and the cluttered pantry, the kitchen footprint grew. Once the floorplan was set, it was time to bring cohesion to her home, creating connection between the kitchen and surrounding spaces. The color palette carries into the mudroom, where we added beautiful new cabinetry, practical bench seating, and accessible hooks, perfect for guests and everyday living. The nearby bar continues the aesthetic, with stunning Carrara marble subway tile, hints of brass and bronze, and a design that further captures the vibe of the kitchen. Every home has its unique design challenges. But with a fresh perspective and a bit of creativity, there is always a way to give the client exactly what they want [and need]. In this particular kitchen, the existing soffits and high slanted ceilings added a layer of complexity to the lighting layout and upper perimeter cabinets. While a space needs to look good, it also needs to function well. This meant making the most of the height of the room and accounting for the varied ceiling features, while also giving Tina everything she wanted and more. Pendants and task lighting paired with an abundance of natural light amplify the bright aesthetic. The cabinetry layout and design compliments the soffits with subtle profile details that bring everything together. The tile selections add visual interest, drawing the eye to the focal area above the range. Glass-doored cabinets further customize the space and give the illusion of even more height within the room. While her family may be grown and out of the house, Tina was focused on adding function without sacrificing a stunning aesthetic and dreamy finishes that make the kitchen the gathering place of any home. It was time to love her kitchen again, and if you’re wondering what she loves most, it’s the niche with glass door cabinetry and open shelving for display paired with the marble mosaic backsplash over the range and complimenting hood. Each of these features is a stunning point of interest within the kitchen – both brag-worthy additions to a perimeter layout that previously felt limited and lacking. Whether your remodel is the result of special needs in your home or simply the excitement of focusing your energy on creating a fun new aesthetic, we are here for it. We love a good challenge because there is always a way to make a space better – adding function and beauty simultaneously.

Located in, Summit Park, Park City UT lies one of the most efficient houses in the country. The Summit Haus – designed and built by Chris Price of PCD+B, is an exploration in design and construction of advanced high performance housing. Seeing a rising demand for sustainable housing along with rising Carbon emissions leading to global warming, this house strives to show that sensible, good design can create spaces adequate for today’s housing demands while adhering to strict standards. The house was designed to meet the very rigid Passiv House rating system – 90% more efficient than a typical home in the area. The house itself was intended to nestle neatly into the 45 degree sloped site and to take full advantage of the limited solar access and views. The views range from short, highly wooded views to a long corridor out towards the Uinta Mountain range towards the east. The house was designed and built based off Passiv Haus standards, and the framing and ventilation became critical elements to maintain such minimal energy requirements. Zola triple-pane, tilt-and-turn Thermo uPVC windows contribute substantially to the home’s energy efficiency, and takes advantage of the beautiful surrounding of the location, including forrest views from the deck off of the kitchen. Photographer: Douglas Burke

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

Photo of a transitional wood fence landscaping in Los Angeles.

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

This stunning contemporary home located at 378 Margarita Dr San Rafael CA is gracefully integrated on 2 acres and surrounded by protected open space affording complete privacy, and commanding spectacular views of Marin including iconic Mt. Tamalpais. The spacious open floor plan includes 2 family rooms, a large open-concept kitchen, 4 large bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Inviting decks off the common rooms and all the bedrooms give this home a serene indoor-outdoor feel. Perfect for entertaining. There is also a level outdoor patio area surrounded by beautiful California oaks. Just up the hill off the gated private drive is adjacent land trust property with a level plateau and panoramic views of the bay, 2 bridges, Oakland, San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais and much of Marin. While not part of the property, due to its close proximity and limited public access the current owners of 378 Margarita often use this plateau for yoga, fireworks viewing and informal parties. Just one of the many perks of being surrounded by pristine open space. This one-of-a-kind property is conveniently located near shops, restaurants, marinas and parks with easy access to Highway 101, San Francisco and the Wine Country.

Nestled on a steep, hard-to-access lot, this home and pool presented unique challenges. The aging pool had tilted more than four inches downhill, and with limited backyard access and a tight budget, a full replacement wasn’t an option. Instead, a creative design solution—one of our specialties—allowed for a seamless repair, featuring a new concrete coping and a vibrant tile accent that revitalized the space. The outdoor transformation didn’t stop there. The deteriorating decks required a complete rebuild, and the homeowners envisioned a detached art studio tucked into their nature-filled backyard. By embracing the site’s complexities, we crafted a design that connected the elevated outdoor living areas to the pool and studio, creating a cohesive, functional retreat. Every detail was executed with precision. Linear decking and cable rail demanded meticulous planning, while IPE wood was chosen for its natural beauty and durability. Thoughtful design elements—like the IPE wood cap that unifies the pool’s edge and art studio wall and a horizontal privacy fence that visually expands the space—elevate the project beyond a renovation. This is a space built not just for beauty, but for lasting enjoyment.

Nestled on a steep, hard-to-access lot, this home and pool presented unique challenges. The aging pool had tilted more than four inches downhill, and with limited backyard access and a tight budget, a full replacement wasn’t an option. Instead, a creative design solution—one of our specialties—allowed for a seamless repair, featuring a new concrete coping and a vibrant tile accent that revitalized the space. The outdoor transformation didn’t stop there. The deteriorating decks required a complete rebuild, and the homeowners envisioned a detached art studio tucked into their nature-filled backyard. By embracing the site’s complexities, we crafted a design that connected the elevated outdoor living areas to the pool and studio, creating a cohesive, functional retreat. Every detail was executed with precision. Linear decking and cable rail demanded meticulous planning, while IPE wood was chosen for its natural beauty and durability. Thoughtful design elements—like the IPE wood cap that unifies the pool’s edge and art studio wall and a horizontal privacy fence that visually expands the space—elevate the project beyond a renovation. This is a space built not just for beauty, but for lasting enjoyment.

Nestled on a steep, hard-to-access lot, this home and pool presented unique challenges. The aging pool had tilted more than four inches downhill, and with limited backyard access and a tight budget, a full replacement wasn’t an option. Instead, a creative design solution—one of our specialties—allowed for a seamless repair, featuring a new concrete coping and a vibrant tile accent that revitalized the space. The outdoor transformation didn’t stop there. The deteriorating decks required a complete rebuild, and the homeowners envisioned a detached art studio tucked into their nature-filled backyard. By embracing the site’s complexities, we crafted a design that connected the elevated outdoor living areas to the pool and studio, creating a cohesive, functional retreat. Every detail was executed with precision. Linear decking and cable rail demanded meticulous planning, while IPE wood was chosen for its natural beauty and durability. Thoughtful design elements—like the IPE wood cap that unifies the pool’s edge and art studio wall and a horizontal privacy fence that visually expands the space—elevate the project beyond a renovation. This is a space built not just for beauty, but for lasting enjoyment.

Nestled on a steep, hard-to-access lot, this home and pool presented unique challenges. The aging pool had tilted more than four inches downhill, and with limited backyard access and a tight budget, a full replacement wasn’t an option. Instead, a creative design solution—one of our specialties—allowed for a seamless repair, featuring a new concrete coping and a vibrant tile accent that revitalized the space. The outdoor transformation didn’t stop there. The deteriorating decks required a complete rebuild, and the homeowners envisioned a detached art studio tucked into their nature-filled backyard. By embracing the site’s complexities, we crafted a design that connected the elevated outdoor living areas to the pool and studio, creating a cohesive, functional retreat. Every detail was executed with precision. Linear decking and cable rail demanded meticulous planning, while IPE wood was chosen for its natural beauty and durability. Thoughtful design elements—like the IPE wood cap that unifies the pool’s edge and art studio wall and a horizontal privacy fence that visually expands the space—elevate the project beyond a renovation. This is a space built not just for beauty, but for lasting enjoyment.

The proprietary design of LUXE wedgewire grates provides hydraulic function that is unsurpassed, making them an optimal choice when separating wet areas from dry. All LUXE Linear Drains are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities Section 4.5.4 specifies that ground and floor grates “shall have spaces no greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) wide in one direction.” We are pleased to provide grates that comply with these requirements so no individual is limited from accessing the area safely and confidently.

The Control/Shift House is perched on the high side of the site which takes advantage of the view to the southeast. A gradual descending path navigates the change in terrain from the street to the entry of the house. A series of low retaining walls/planter beds gather and release the earth upon the descent resulting in a fairly flat level for the house to sit on the top one third of the site. The entry axis is aligned with the celebrated stair volume and then re-centers on the actual entry axis once you approach the forecourt of the house. The initial desire was for an “H” scheme house with common entertaining spaces bridging the gap between the more private spaces. After an investigation considering the site, program, and view, a key move was made: unfold the east wing of the “H” scheme to open all rooms to the southeast view resulting in a “T” scheme. The new derivation allows for both a swim pool which is on axis with the entry and main gathering space and a lap pool which occurs on the cross axis extending along the lengthy edge of the master suite, providing direct access for morning exercise and a view of the water throughout the day. The Control/Shift House was derived from a clever way of following the “rules.” Strict HOA guidelines required very specific exterior massing restrictions which limits the lengths of unbroken elevations and promotes varying sizes of masses. The solution most often used in this neighborhood is one of addition - an aggregation of masses and program randomly attached to the inner core of the house which often results in a parasitic plan. The approach taken with the Control/Shift House was to push and pull program/massing to delineate and define the layout of the house. Massing is intentional and reiterated by the careful selection of materiality that tracks through the house. Voids and relief in the plan are a natural result of this method and allow for light and air to circulate throughout every space of the house, even into the most inner core. Photography: Charles Davis Smith

The proprietary design of LUXE wedgewire grates provides hydraulic function that is unsurpassed, making them an optimal choice when separating wet areas from dry. All LUXE Linear Drains are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities Section 4.5.4 specifies that ground and floor grates “shall have spaces no greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) wide in one direction.” We are pleased to provide grates that comply with these requirements so no individual is limited from accessing the area safely and confidently.

The proprietary design of LUXE wedgewire grates provides hydraulic function that is unsurpassed, making them an optimal choice when separating wet areas from dry. All LUXE Linear Drains are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities Section 4.5.4 specifies that ground and floor grates “shall have spaces no greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) wide in one direction.” We are pleased to provide grates that comply with these requirements so no individual is limited from accessing the area safely and confidently.

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home. This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout. The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan. This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets. Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams. The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools. Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking. To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter. The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination. The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close. Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry. The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door. Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room. Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look. The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses! Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space. This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made. If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.