This project began with the goal of updating both style and function to allow for improved ease of use for a wheelchair. The previous space was overstuffed with an island that didn't really fit, an over-sized fridge in a location that complicated a primary doorway, and a 42" tall high bar that was inaccessible from a wheelchair. Our clients desired a space that would improve wheelchair use for both cooking or just being in the room, yet did not look like an ADA space. It became a story of less is more, and subtle, thoughtful changes from a standard design. After working through options, we designed an open floorplan that provided a galley kitchen function with a full 5 ft walkway by use of a peninsula open to the family den. This peninsula is highlighted by a drop down, table-height countertop wrapping the end and long backside that is now accessible to all members of the family by providing a perfect height for a flexible workstation in a wheelchair or comfortable entertaining on the backside. We then dropped the height for cooking at the new induction cooktop and created knee space below. Further, we specified an apron front sink that brings the sink closer in reach than a traditional undermount sink that would have countertop rimming in front. An articulating faucet with no limitations on reach provides full range of access in the sink. The ovens and microwave were also situated at a height comfortable for use from a wheelchair. Where a refrigerator used to block the doorway, a pull out is now located giving easy access to dry goods for cooks at all heights. Every element within the space was considered for the impact to our homes occupants - wheelchair or not, even the doorswing on the microwave. Now our client has a kitchen that every member of the family can use and be a part of. Simple design, with a well-thought out plan, makes a difference in the lives of another family. Photos by David Cobb Photography

This was an exceptional challenge due to elevation and access. This spa sits 17 feet above grade and is over 6 feet above the pool. The space was extremely limited but we found the perfect fit. This project includes an infinity edge spa with a Faux edge pool. It also includes a lean to cabana and an automated fire pit. Secured by tempered glass railing and accentuated by beautiful Artistry in mosaics glass tile.

My client wanted to keep the pink glow of her 1950's bathroom but bring it into the 21st century. She also needed to make sure it was one she could use as long as possible.

This single family home sits on a tight, sloped site. Within a modest budget, the goal was to provide direct access to grade at both the front and back of the house. The solution is a multi-split-level home with unconventional relationships between floor levels. Between the entrance level and the lower level of the family room, the kitchen and dining room are located on an interstitial level. Within the stair space “floats” a small bathroom. The generous stair is celebrated with a back-painted red glass wall which treats users to changing refractive ambient light throughout the house. Black brick, grey-tinted glass and mirrors contribute to the reasonably compact massing of the home. A cantilevered upper volume shades south facing windows and the home’s limited material palette meant a more efficient construction process. Cautious landscaping retains water run-off on the sloping site and home offices reduce the client’s use of their vehicle. The house achieves its vision within a modest footprint and with a design restraint that will ensure it becomes a long-lasting asset in the community. Photo by Tom Arban

Backing onto a private golf course north of Toronto, this classic pool has all the essential amenities. Accessible from the basement or main floor walkout, a bi-level cedar deck leads to the patio of architectural stamped concrete. There's ample room for lounging or entertaining. The pool's blue granite liner is framed by Wiarton flagstone coping, while three sheer descent waterfalls on a raised feature wall and an elevated spill over spa add sound and drama. The pool equipment is discreetly out of view behind the feature wall and berms and trees lend privacy. (20 x 40, rectangular)

This was an exceptional challenge due to elevation and access. This spa sits 17 feet above grade and is over 6 feet above the pool. The space was extremely limited but we found the perfect fit. This project includes an infinity edge spa with a Faux edge pool. It also includes a lean to cabana and an automated fire pit. Secured by tempered glass railing and accentuated by beautiful Artistry in mosaics glass tile.

This dark, dreary kitchen was large, but not being used well. The family of 7 had outgrown the limited storage and experienced traffic bottlenecks when in the kitchen together. A bright, cheerful and more functional kitchen was desired, as well as a new pantry space. We gutted the kitchen and closed off the landing through the door to the garage to create a new pantry. A frosted glass pocket door eliminates door swing issues. In the pantry, a small access door opens to the garage so groceries can be loaded easily. Grey wood-look tile was laid everywhere. We replaced the small window and added a 6’x4’ window, instantly adding tons of natural light. A modern motorized sheer roller shade helps control early morning glare. Three free-floating shelves are to the right of the window for favorite décor and collectables. White, ceiling-height cabinets surround the room. The full-overlay doors keep the look seamless. Double dishwashers, double ovens and a double refrigerator are essentials for this busy, large family. An induction cooktop was chosen for energy efficiency, child safety, and reliability in cooking. An appliance garage and a mixer lift house the much-used small appliances. An ice maker and beverage center were added to the side wall cabinet bank. The microwave and TV are hidden but have easy access. The inspiration for the room was an exclusive glass mosaic tile. The large island is a glossy classic blue. White quartz countertops feature small flecks of silver. Plus, the stainless metal accent was even added to the toe kick! Upper cabinet, under-cabinet and pendant ambient lighting, all on dimmers, was added and every light (even ceiling lights) is LED for energy efficiency. White-on-white modern counter stools are easy to clean. Plus, throughout the room, strategically placed USB outlets give tidy charging options.

Alcove shower - small contemporary master dark wood floor and brown floor alcove shower idea in New York with flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, gray walls, an undermount sink, solid surface countertops and a hinged shower door

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath was the remodeling contractor for this beautiful Waukesha first floor remodel. The homeowners recently purchased the home and wanted to immediately update the space. The old kitchen was outdated and closed off from the great room. The goal was to design an open-concept space for hosting family and friends. LAYOUT The first step was to remove the awkward dining room walls. This made the room feel large and open. We tucked the refrigerator into a wall of cabinets so it didn’t impose. Seating at the island and peninsula makes the kitchen very versatile. DESIGN We created an elegant entertaining space to take advantage of the lake view. The Waukesha homeowners wanted a contemporary design with neutral colors and finishes. They chose soft gray lower cabinets and white upper cabinets. We added texture with wood accents and a herringbone marble backsplash tile. The desk area features a walnut butcher block countertop. We also used walnut for the open shelving, detail on the hood and the legs on the island. CUSTOM CABINETRY Frameless custom cabinets maximize storage in this Waukesha kitchen. The upper cabinets have hidden light rail molding. Angled plug molding eliminates outlets on the backsplash. Drawers in the lower cabinets allow for excellent storage. The cooktop has a functioning top drawer with a hidden apron to hide the guts of the cooktop. The clients also asked for a home office desk area and pantry cabinet.

Audra Miller Interiors requested horizontal placement of the handle on the door for easier access for her client with limited manual dexterity.
Trendy home design photo in Orange County

Patio - mid-sized traditional backyard patio idea in Seattle

The Solstice team worked with these Crofton homeowners to achieve their vision of having a kitchen design that is the center of home life in this Chapman Farm home. The result is a kitchen located in the heart of the home, that serves as a welcome destination for family and visitors, with a highly effective layout. The addition of a peninsula adds extra seating and also separates the kitchen work zone from an external doorway and the living area. HomeCrest kitchen cabinets in willow finish Sedona maple includes customized pull out storage accessories like cooking utensil and knife storage inserts, pull out shelves, and more. The gray cabinetry is accented by an amazing Cambria "Langdon" quartz countertop and gray subway tile backsplash. An Allora USA double bowl sink with American Standard pull out sprayer faucet is situated facing the window, and includes an InSinkErator Evolution garbage disposal and InstaHot water dispenser in chrome. The design is accented by stainless appliances, a warm wood floor, and under- and over-cabinet lighting.

This overhead view shows all the elements and the backyard’s two access points, one beside the cabana, the other via the existing basement walkout. The kids love the stone slab steps leading up to the deep end feature wall, which serves as a diving ledge.

The conversion of a tub to shower has become increasingly popular as many people prefer the convenience and accessibility of a shower over a bathtub. It is a common remodeling project in guest bathrooms, especially for those with limited mobility or those who simply prefer showers.

To help the pool look balanced in the room and to provide access to the patio doors and underwater bench, a stepping-stone path was created using sandblasted Eramosa flagstone. The stepping-stones not only add another texture to the room, but also look more interesting than a typical perimeter walkway.

The island, by Crystal Keyline, is finished in Antique Ivory w/Brown Highlights and glass doors. It is the focal point of the kitchen, contrasting nicely with the Toasted Rye w/Brown Highlights cabinetry. The range-hood and cooktop area, also finished in Antique Ivory w/Brown Highlights, add an extra punch of interest. The Bayfield door style unifies the design. This custom kitchen required the complete customization of the space to the specific needs of the client, due to the on-set of a neuromuscular disorder. The space also had to function well for his wife who does most the cooking on a daily basis. The layout was designed for the couple to be able to work together in the kitchen, or independently. Although largely dictated by her husband's need for accessibility, the universal design of this kitchen is also extremely friendly for a the wife's smaller stature. The couple feels at home in this kitchen yet, it’s not obvious that someone with physical limitations utilizes this space. Typhoon Bordeaux granite countertops are layered in staggered heights for added visual interest.

Simple and durable materials are used with a deliberately limited palate: Concrete floors with radiant heat are rugged and can withstand a variety of uses. Waxed plywood walls can take bumps and dings with minimal maintenance. A small desk space at the landing, lit from above by north light, serves as the transition from the living space to the sleeping area on the second floor. All images © Benjamin Benschneider Photography

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary master gray tile and porcelain tile concrete floor, gray floor and double-sink freestanding bathtub remodel in Austin with flat-panel cabinets, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, gray countertops, black cabinets, white walls and a floating vanity

The backyard amenities have two access points, one with the sliding glass panels on the main floor deck, the other via the basement walkout which is near a washroom/change room. Both feature glass railings with locking gates to comply with Toronto’s pool fence bylaws.