Search results for "Limits access" in Home Design Ideas

Mudroom — Project Description (Bolton, CT)
(Reconfiguration • Custom Storage • Functional Entry Design)
The original mudroom layout was cramped and inefficient, offering minimal storage and poor traffic flow. The garage door opened directly into a wall, the single corner closet provided limited accessibility to its sides, and there was no place for shoes, coats, or everyday landing items. The space lacked both organization and visual appeal.
Key Issues in the Old Layout
Garage door swung into a side wall, restricting movement
Small corner closet with poor left/right access and inadequate capacity
No dedicated shoe storage
No seating or landing surface
No mirror, making the space feel smaller and less functional
Overall layout did not support daily use or family workflow
New Layout & Built-In Storage Solutions
The mudroom was completely reconfigured to create a balanced, efficient, and visually cohesive entry zone that supports everyday routines and maximizes available space.
Wall-to-Wall Back Closet
Full-width custom closet spans the entire back wall
Equipped with double pocket doors for effortless access without blocking circulation
Interior fitted with coat hanging space and top shelving for seasonal items
Full-Height Shoe & Accessory Storage
A dedicated tall cabinet provides:
Bottom half: organized shoe storage
Top half: adjustable shelves for accessories, baskets, or household essentials
Built-In Combo Opposite the Closet
A custom multifunctional unit includes:
Walnut bench top for warmth, texture, and a natural design element
Two deep drawers beneath the bench for gloves, hats, pet items, etc.
Full-height mirror strategically placed to visually expand the room
Open hanging storage for quick-access items
Upper enclosed cabinet with adjustable shelving for concealed storage
Additional Enhancements
The garage door swing was reversed for proper ergonomics and easier entry
Added crown molding throughout the space for a cohesive, finished look consistent with the rest of the renovation
Upgraded lighting brightens the room and enhances the sense of cleanliness and order

Noem
Study room - small contemporary built-in desk light wood floor study room idea in Barcelona with white walls and no fireplace
Study room - small contemporary built-in desk light wood floor study room idea in Barcelona with white walls and no fireplace

This 1960’s ranch in Fitchburg, MA had a kitchen with suspended cabinets and a very tiny work area. The suspended cabinets blocked the view of the large window looking at the backyard and made it difficult to visit with friends and family while working in the kitchen.
The homeowners were interested in having a kitchen where their extended family and friends could come and enjoy “hanging out” in the kitchen. We removed the suspended cabinets and installed an island where 4 to 5 people could “hang out” and talk to the cooks while they prepare the meal. We also added seating under the window by putting a very practical window seat. The window seat has drawers below for easy access seasonal storage.
We also made the cased opening to the dining room larger so when there is a very large gathering a couple of people can sit on stools looking into the kitchen. So now this once “small” kitchen with very limited seating can have several people visiting and yet not be bumping into those preparing the meals.
Find the right local pro for your project

Living Room Wardrobe by Komandor. Wardrobes are not just for bedrooms! They can serve a purpose anywhere in your home where you need a bit of extra storage. Our cabinetry is customized to fit your space. Sometimes… you have limited area to work with so this is the perfect fit. With the added benefit of sliding doors, there is no need to accommodate extra space for opening doors. A long span of sliding doors can blend seamlessly into your decor while providing much needed storage space. You can even hide away your tv and push open the doors when you need access. Make a design statement…save some space…we are eager to help!

Our clients, Erica + Luca, are a power couple each running their own businesses, and for the past six years have also been social parents raising two boys. Their home sits hillside, adjacent to a green space where they have beautiful views, but limited access to enjoy the outdoors. Introspecs created an interior space plan which opens the main level rooms to one another, to both increase visual sight lines + allow separate activities to take place simultaneously. Our goal was to maintain a family-focused house with a large in-kitchen eating island + tons of pantry storage while still honoring adult cocktail hour + entertaining friends. We translated their edgy Euro taste into the finishes which beautifully dresses up the functional layout + resonates with their lifestyle.

Eye-Land: Named for the expansive white oak savanna views, this beautiful 5,200-square foot family home offers seamless indoor/outdoor living with five bedrooms and three baths, and space for two more bedrooms and a bathroom.
The site posed unique design challenges. The home was ultimately nestled into the hillside, instead of placed on top of the hill, so that it didn’t dominate the dramatic landscape. The openness of the savanna exposes all sides of the house to the public, which required creative use of form and materials. The home’s one-and-a-half story form pays tribute to the site’s farming history. The simplicity of the gable roof puts a modern edge on a traditional form, and the exterior color palette is limited to black tones to strike a stunning contrast to the golden savanna.
The main public spaces have oversized south-facing windows and easy access to an outdoor terrace with views overlooking a protected wetland. The connection to the land is further strengthened by strategically placed windows that allow for views from the kitchen to the driveway and auto court to see visitors approach and children play. There is a formal living room adjacent to the front entry for entertaining and a separate family room that opens to the kitchen for immediate family to gather before and after mealtime.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Franklin County's Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

PBA designed the renovation of this two story, 1,800 square foot, Henderson’s Wharf penthouse condominium in the historic Fell’s Point community to take advantage of the breathtaking views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The existing floor plan was configured with living spaces on the lower level, and bedrooms with terraces on the upper level: PBA inverted the layout by creating a generous foyer at the lower level entry with a stair leading to the living spaces on the upper level. The lower level was renovated for a master suite and guest bedroom, while the upper floor was converted to an open great room taking advantage of the breathtaking views of the Harbor (along with a powder room, office and laundry room). The project presented very difficult challenges since sanitary plumbing lines could not be relocated due to the unavailability of access from the unit below, so the design was forced to conform with existing lower level plumbing locations. In addition, PBA utilized computer aided design (BIM) to route ductwork throughout the unit due to extremely limited space.

Our clients, Erica + Luca, are a power couple each running their own businesses, and for the past six years have also been social parents raising two boys. Their home sits hillside, adjacent to a green space where they have beautiful views, but limited access to enjoy the outdoors. Introspecs created an interior space plan which opens the main level rooms to one another, to both increase visual sight lines + allow separate activities to take place simultaneously. Our goal was to maintain a family-focused house with a large in-kitchen eating island + tons of pantry storage while still honoring adult cocktail hour + entertaining friends. We translated their edgy Euro taste into the finishes which beautifully dresses up the functional layout + resonates with their lifestyle.

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.

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

This mixed-income housing development on six acres in town is adjacent to national forest. Conservation concerns restricted building south of the creek and budgets led to efficient layouts.
All of the units have decks and primary spaces facing south for sun and mountain views; an orientation reflected in the building forms. The seven detached market-rate duplexes along the creek subsidized the deed restricted two- and three-story attached duplexes along the street and west boundary which can be entered through covered access from street and courtyard. This arrangement of the units forms a courtyard and thus unifies them into a single community.
The use of corrugated, galvanized metal and fiber cement board – requiring limited maintenance – references ranch and agricultural buildings. These vernacular references, combined with the arrangement of units, integrate the housing development into the fabric of the region.
A.I.A. Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Citation 2008
Project Year: 2009

Living Room Wardrobe by Komandor. Wardrobes are not just for bedrooms! They can serve a purpose anywhere in your home where you need a bit of extra storage. Our cabinetry is customized to fit your space. Sometimes… you have limited area to work with so this is the perfect fit. With the added benefit of sliding doors, there is no need to accommodate extra space for opening doors. A long span of sliding doors can blend seamlessly into your decor while providing much needed storage space. You can even hide away your tv and push open the doors when you need access. Make a design statement…save some space…we are eager to help!

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

The front yard was sloped down so a new retaining wall was built with matching brick work to the existing architecture. Inside the wall we planted a hedge to provide privacy for the new usable space as comfortable as any back yard patio space.
©Daniel Bosler Photography

Oftentimes homeowners come to us with an idea of how they want to update their space. Through thoughtful discussion and truly understanding their needs, we develop the perfect plan together. The previous bathroom was burdened with a large jacuzzi tub, an outdated fiberglass shower, and limited open floor space. Our approach started with a simple shower and bath update and evolved into a complete reimagining of the bathroom. We prioritized fluidity and functionality, repositioning plumbing and overhauling the floor plan to create a space that seamlessly marries practicality with design impact.
The new bathroom features a custom knotty alder vanity with toe kick lighting and a sleek quartz countertop. Above, a defogging LED-lit mirror with touch screen controls adds a modern element to the bright and minimal bathroom aesthetic. The new custom shower blends sophistication with accessibility. Simple yet elegant porcelain fluted tiles and glass partitions frame the space, with a low-threshold entrance and strategically placed grab bars to support accessibility. Inside, a custom product niche with cove lighting adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In the end, the reimagined bathroom thoughtfully aligns the homeowner's lifestyle and design preferences.

Door style: Chesapeake | Species: Red Oak | Finish: Cognac
Since one of the homeowners lives life in a wheelchair, easy access was important in this design. Showplace interior accessories give lots of ways to keep lots of things within easy seated reach.
Learn more about our style and convenience accessories to enhance your Showplace: http://www.showplacewood.com/ProdGuide1/PGaccs/accshome.html

This 1960’s ranch in Fitchburg, MA had a kitchen with suspended cabinets and a very tiny work area. The suspended cabinets blocked the view of the large window looking at the backyard and made it difficult to visit with friends and family while working in the kitchen.
The homeowners were interested in having a kitchen where their extended family and friends could come and enjoy “hanging out” in the kitchen. We removed the suspended cabinets and installed an island where 4 to 5 people could “hang out” and talk to the cooks while they prepare the meal. We also added seating under the window by putting a very practical window seat. The window seat has drawers below for easy access seasonal storage.
We also made the cased opening to the dining room larger so when there is a very large gathering a couple of people can sit on stools looking into the kitchen. So now this once “small” kitchen with very limited seating can have several people visiting and yet not be bumping into those preparing the meals.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Franklin County's Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

This mixed-income housing development on six acres in town is adjacent to national forest. Conservation concerns restricted building south of the creek and budgets led to efficient layouts.
All of the units have decks and primary spaces facing south for sun and mountain views; an orientation reflected in the building forms. The seven detached market-rate duplexes along the creek subsidized the deed restricted two- and three-story attached duplexes along the street and west boundary which can be entered through covered access from street and courtyard. This arrangement of the units forms a courtyard and thus unifies them into a single community.
The use of corrugated, galvanized metal and fiber cement board – requiring limited maintenance – references ranch and agricultural buildings. These vernacular references, combined with the arrangement of units, integrate the housing development into the fabric of the region.
A.I.A. Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Citation 2008
Project Year: 2009

From the stunning, unobstructed views of its dancing flames to the radiant beauty that only comes from advanced engineering, the Mission B-Vent Gas Fireplace offers the style and performance demanded by today’s homeowners. Standard features like multi-dimensional refractory log arrangement and a deep glowing ember bed keep living areas cozy and inviting, while optional accessories like Extruded Aluminum Bi-Fold Glass Doors add style to any room. As versatile as it is beautiful, the Mission is the choice for affordable comfort without compromise.
Features
Available in 36” and 42” radiant smooth-faced models
Dual tube burner uses 6” b-vent
Millivolt (Remote-ready) or electronic ignition
Dramatic yellow flames with glowing ember bed
Detailed ceramic fiber “split oak” log set with log grate
Three interior options (black painted interior with white stacked hearth, white stacked refractory panels or white herringbone refractory panels)
Screens retract into hidden screen pockets
Hidden gas controls with damper safety switch
Durable textured powder coat finish
Optional outside air kit for increased performance
Optional blower and remote controls available for all models
Dual access pre-wired electrical J-box
Lifetime limited warranty

What a fun challenge this property was! The homeowners have 12 brothers and sisters between them, as well as a growing family of their own. They love having the "holiday house", and it's not uncommon for them to entertain 30-40 guests. Notice in the design renderings the limited space in the backyard...only 24'x55' of usable space. See how we were able to waterproof the underside of the deck to create a 2-a season room complete with custom fireplace and masonry seat walls. Also, the upper deck boasts a natural stone bar overlook, built-in grill, and cedar pergola for daytime shade. The spiral staircase is an incredibly efficient use of space providing access between the upper and lower levels.
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