6. PANTRY CUPBOARDS Pantries can be a closet with shelves and a door or a freestanding cupboard that looks like an antique. Either way these areas are a place for you to store your long term food items, so you have all the supplies you might need.

Bedroom Renovation in Massachusetts | Before & After Transformation by Maverick City Builders This project showcases a complete bedroom renovation in an older Massachusetts home, transforming a dated and underutilized space into a clean, modern, and highly functional room. From initial demolition to final furnishing, every phase of this remodel highlights the craftsmanship, organization, and attention to detail that defines Maverick City Builders (MCB). The project began with a small bedroom featuring outdated finishes, limited natural light, and worn flooring. During the early renovation stage, walls were carefully opened to expose framing, insulation, and existing structure—allowing for proper upgrades and ensuring long-term durability. The job site remained clean and professionally managed throughout the process, reflecting our commitment to quality and safety. As the renovation progressed, new drywall was installed and finished to create smooth, paint-ready surfaces. Trim work, including modern baseboards and door casings, was added to elevate the overall look. Flooring was replaced with durable, high-quality materials, bringing warmth and consistency to the space. In the final stage, the bedroom was fully transformed with fresh neutral paint, crisp white trim, upgraded lighting, and improved brightness from the existing window. The completed space was then furnished as a simple, functional kid’s bedroom—featuring a bed, desk, and storage solutions—designed to be both practical and comfortable without unnecessary luxury. This before-and-after renovation highlights how strategic upgrades, clean execution, and thoughtful design can completely redefine a space. Maverick City Builders proudly serves Central Massachusetts, delivering high-quality bedroom renovations, home remodeling, and interior upgrades that add long-term value to your home. Services Included: Bedroom Remodeling, Drywall Installation & Finishing, Interior Trim & Carpentry, Flooring Installation, Painting, Light Construction Framing Service Area: Lancaster, Clinton, Sterling, Leominster, Lunenburg, Fitchburg, Bolton, Harvard, and surrounding Massachusetts towns

This master bathroom remodel in Reston was designed around a fully custom steam shower, creating a clean and comfortable space with a spa-like feel. The shower area was completely reworked by removing one of the existing walls and opening up the layout. We installed a frameless glass enclosure that runs to the ceiling, which is essential for proper steam retention while also making the space feel more open. Inside the shower, the entire enclosure was tiled from floor to ceiling, including the ceiling itself. This is an important detail for steam showers, along with proper waterproofing behind the tile to ensure long-term performance. To improve functionality, we added a built-in bench with a quartz top, along with two recessed niches for storage. The shower floor features a hexagon mosaic tile, which adds texture and provides better grip. The material selection throughout the bathroom was kept clean and consistent. We used MSI Eden Dolomite tile in both polished and matte finishes, paired with a Bianco Dolomite accent tile on the plumbing wall and inside the niches. The vanity area features Fabuwood Galaxy Indigo cabinets, combined with a Frost White quartz countertop and matte black hardware. This contrast helps define the space while keeping the overall look balanced. Additional updates included new recessed lighting with dimmers, updated electrical and plumbing work, and a fresh coat of paint throughout the bathroom and closet. The final result is a modern master bathroom centered around a fully functional steam shower, designed for both everyday use and long-term durability.

This couple's long-term water leak left their downstairs guest bathroom in disarray. It had gotten so bad that the toilet would actually rock due to the sub-floor deterioration. After the remodel, this small but mighty bathroom leaves a memorable impression on its guests, primarily because of its efficient footprint and bold use of color. This project became necessary after a long- term water leak left the floor tile broken and the subfloor deteriorating.
Once underway, we set out to determine what other problems we could help solve in this guest bathroom. We explored several different floorplans for this space, but we ultimately decided that the general location of the fixtures worked well for these homeowners. One of the primary concerns was to determine how we could include as much vanity storage as possible. Their old vanity included a shallow section next to the toilet, but it only had two shallow top drawers, making the bulk of the storage awkward and hard to access. Although they liked the size of their old shower stall, the plastic insert was corroding. They also didn't have anywhere to place their shower products, and there was no place to hang a towel. We opted for a tiled shower and included a shampoo niche for their bath products. We also included a horizontal shower door handle, which doubles as a towel bar.

The Lorraine Modern Residence is a fully integrated front and backyard project designed and built by The Northstone Group, the #1 landscape architecture, design-build, and custom pool construction firm in Montreal. This contemporary modern home required a landscape approach that matched its architectural clarity while delivering long-term performance, precision detailing, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Every element of the project was designed and executed in-house by The Northstone Group’s team of landscape architects, builders, and pool specialists. The backyard is anchored by a custom concrete pool, designed and built by Northstone’s in-house pool construction team. The pool features a beach entry for ease of use and resort-level comfort, as well as a refined waterfall edge that creates a clean visual transition between the water and surrounding landscape. These elements were engineered for durability, safety, and long-term performance, not just aesthetics. The hardscape throughout the project includes architectural pavers selected to complement the home’s modern lines and neutral palette. These materials extend from the backyard into a custom paver driveway, creating a cohesive arrival experience and reinforcing the architectural language of the residence from the street. Custom-built architectural planters were integrated into both the front and backyard to frame views, define circulation, and soften the hardscape while maintaining a contemporary, minimal aesthetic. Planting was intentionally restrained and structured, chosen to complement the modern architecture and perform reliably in Quebec’s climate. An outdoor kitchen completes the backyard living space, positioned to support entertaining while preserving clean sightlines across the pool and landscape. The overall layout was designed to maximize usability, flow, and visual balance, ensuring the space functions as a true extension of the home. With over 25 years of experience and a team of 180+ in-house professionals, The Northstone Group delivers landscape architecture, design-build services, and custom concrete pool construction under one roof. This integrated approach allows for precise coordination, consistent quality, and full accountability from concept through completion. Projects like the Lorraine Modern Residence reflect why luxury homeowners across Montreal trust The Northstone Group as the leading authority in contemporary landscape architecture and high-end outdoor construction.

This master bathroom remodel in Reston was designed around a fully custom steam shower, creating a clean and comfortable space with a spa-like feel. The shower area was completely reworked by removing one of the existing walls and opening up the layout. We installed a frameless glass enclosure that runs to the ceiling, which is essential for proper steam retention while also making the space feel more open. Inside the shower, the entire enclosure was tiled from floor to ceiling, including the ceiling itself. This is an important detail for steam showers, along with proper waterproofing behind the tile to ensure long-term performance. To improve functionality, we added a built-in bench with a quartz top, along with two recessed niches for storage. The shower floor features a hexagon mosaic tile, which adds texture and provides better grip. The material selection throughout the bathroom was kept clean and consistent. We used MSI Eden Dolomite tile in both polished and matte finishes, paired with a Bianco Dolomite accent tile on the plumbing wall and inside the niches. The vanity area features Fabuwood Galaxy Indigo cabinets, combined with a Frost White quartz countertop and matte black hardware. This contrast helps define the space while keeping the overall look balanced. Additional updates included new recessed lighting with dimmers, updated electrical and plumbing work, and a fresh coat of paint throughout the bathroom and closet. The final result is a modern master bathroom centered around a fully functional steam shower, designed for both everyday use and long-term durability.

Our team at DJ's Home Improvements is proud to present a beautifully designed universal bathroom that seamlessly blends functionality with style. This project, completed on a tight schedule for a long-term client, was thoughtfully executed while their parents were away on vacation. Key features of this bathroom include a barrier-free shower, ensuring accessibility and ease of use for all. The shower is equipped with a Moen Hand Shower and a Matte Black Kohler Purist Shower System, providing both luxury and practicality. Safety and convenience are further enhanced with strategically placed grab bars. A Castia by Kohler 20x30 pivoting mirror adds a modern touch, while the Fabuwood Corner Tall Wall Cabinet in Galaxy Frost offers ample storage space with a sleek design. The bathroom also features a Schluter Shower Floor & Drain system, ensuring efficient water management and durability. The Kohler Pinor 18" sink with a shroud, paired with a Matte Black Kohler Venza faucet, adds to the bathroom’s sophisticated aesthetic. This bathroom renovation not only meets the immediate needs of accessibility but also promises long-term satisfaction with its stylish and high-quality finishes.

This project began with precise field measurements and coordination with the existing roof edge and window layout to ensure clean alignment and proper water management. Our team prepared a custom subframe system designed to support the aluminum composite panel (ACP / ACM) gutter cover while allowing for thermal movement and long-term durability. The aluminum composite panels were fabricated with folded edges and return details to fully conceal fasteners and create sharp, continuous lines along the roof perimeter. During installation, each panel was carefully leveled and aligned to maintain consistent joints and a seamless visual flow across corners and transitions. Special attention was given to edge detailing, underside coverage, and integration with the soffit and wall finishes. The system was installed to protect the gutter assembly, improve water control, and deliver a clean architectural appearance with a low-maintenance aluminum finish. The final result is a durable ACP / ACM gutter cover system that enhances the building’s exterior geometry while providing long-term protection and a refined modern look.

This Solana Beach bathroom was completely transformed from an outdated tub and shower into a modern, functional walk-in shower designed for everyday comfort and lasting durability. The project began with a full demolition, followed by plumbing updates, electrical improvements, waterproofing, cement board installation, and a custom mortar shower pan. Every step was completed with a focus on long-term performance before the finish materials were installed. The new shower features large-format Calacatta-look porcelain tile, a custom recessed niche with matte black trim, matte black plumbing fixtures, frameless sliding glass doors, and a hexagon porcelain mosaic shower floor. Outside the shower, we installed a new double vanity with a quartz countertop, undermount sinks, updated mirrors, modern lighting, luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, and new accessories to complete the space. To help the homeowner visualize the project before construction, we first created 3D renderings and then brought that vision to life through careful planning and craftsmanship. At MA Properties Construction, we believe beautiful bathrooms begin with proper preparation. That's why every remodel is built with quality waterproofing, attention to detail, and materials selected for long-term performance. If you're considering a bathroom remodel in Solana Beach, Del Mar, Encinitas, or anywhere in North County San Diego, we'd be happy to help you transform your space.

This large custom-built garage is designed for maximum space, durability, and versatility, featuring a 28×32 footprint with an impressive 14-foot ceiling height that allows for oversized vehicles, vehicle lifts, or extensive storage. Built with a solid concrete foundation and reinforced framing, this garage offers exceptional structural strength and long-term performance. The generous interior layout easily accommodates multiple vehicles, workshop space, or recreational equipment, while the tall clearance makes it ideal for automotive work, boat storage, or future mezzanine storage options. Fully customizable in layout, doors, windows, and exterior finishes, this garage can be tailored to match the home or stand alone as a statement structure, delivering both functionality and long-term value.

This custom landscape installation in Parker, Colorado was designed to complement a newly built home with a clean, Modern Country aesthetic. As part of a large‑scale exterior project in the Metro Denver area, the landscape was crafted to enhance curb appeal, support long‑term durability, and create a welcoming outdoor environment that feels cohesive with the home’s architecture and surrounding terrain. The design focuses on structure, simplicity, and natural flow—key elements of Modern Country style. Hardscape features establish strong visual lines and functional outdoor spaces, while plant selections were chosen for climate suitability, seasonal interest, and long‑term sustainability. Each component was tailored to the property’s layout and the homeowner’s vision for a refined yet inviting exterior. Because this is a new‑construction landscape, the installation serves as the foundation for the home’s future outdoor living potential. The layout balances open areas with defined planting zones, ensuring the landscape will mature beautifully over time. Materials and colors were selected to harmonize with the home’s exterior finishes, creating a unified look from the street to the entryway and throughout the property. This project reflects the thoughtful planning and craftsmanship behind every Stone & Flower Gardens installation—bringing together design, function, and Colorado’s natural beauty to create an exterior that feels timeless, resilient, and ready to grow with the home.

This Solana Beach bathroom was completely transformed from an outdated tub and shower into a modern, functional walk-in shower designed for everyday comfort and lasting durability. The project began with a full demolition, followed by plumbing updates, electrical improvements, waterproofing, cement board installation, and a custom mortar shower pan. Every step was completed with a focus on long-term performance before the finish materials were installed. The new shower features large-format Calacatta-look porcelain tile, a custom recessed niche with matte black trim, matte black plumbing fixtures, frameless sliding glass doors, and a hexagon porcelain mosaic shower floor. Outside the shower, we installed a new double vanity with a quartz countertop, undermount sinks, updated mirrors, modern lighting, luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, and new accessories to complete the space. To help the homeowner visualize the project before construction, we first created 3D renderings and then brought that vision to life through careful planning and craftsmanship. At MA Properties Construction, we believe beautiful bathrooms begin with proper preparation. That's why every remodel is built with quality waterproofing, attention to detail, and materials selected for long-term performance. If you're considering a bathroom remodel in Solana Beach, Del Mar, Encinitas, or anywhere in North County San Diego, we'd be happy to help you transform your space.

This modern bathroom remodel combines crisp white shaker cabinetry with a bold black quartz countertop to create a clean and contemporary contrast. The double vanity features soft-close drawers and solid wood dovetail construction, offering long-term durability and refined craftsmanship. Matte black hardware and faucets introduce a modern edge while maintaining a cohesive minimalist palette. The shower and tub area includes large-format tile, a sliding glass enclosure, and streamlined black fixtures that visually tie the space together. A dark slab backsplash enhances contrast while simplifying maintenance. Designed using eco-friendly, low-emission ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinetry, this project supports healthier indoor air quality without compromising performance or aesthetics. The cabinetry meets strict environmental standards and is GREENGUARD Gold certified, making it suitable for homes, schools, and everyday living environments. This bathroom demonstrates how sustainable cabinet solutions can deliver both modern design and long-term functionality. Cabinetry supplied by The Cabination.

This Solana Beach bathroom was completely transformed from an outdated tub and shower into a modern, functional walk-in shower designed for everyday comfort and lasting durability. The project began with a full demolition, followed by plumbing updates, electrical improvements, waterproofing, cement board installation, and a custom mortar shower pan. Every step was completed with a focus on long-term performance before the finish materials were installed. The new shower features large-format Calacatta-look porcelain tile, a custom recessed niche with matte black trim, matte black plumbing fixtures, frameless sliding glass doors, and a hexagon porcelain mosaic shower floor. Outside the shower, we installed a new double vanity with a quartz countertop, undermount sinks, updated mirrors, modern lighting, luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, and new accessories to complete the space. To help the homeowner visualize the project before construction, we first created 3D renderings and then brought that vision to life through careful planning and craftsmanship. At MA Properties Construction, we believe beautiful bathrooms begin with proper preparation. That's why every remodel is built with quality waterproofing, attention to detail, and materials selected for long-term performance. If you're considering a bathroom remodel in Solana Beach, Del Mar, Encinitas, or anywhere in North County San Diego, we'd be happy to help you transform your space.

All furniture and accessories were bought at Serenity Design. If you are interested in purchasing anything you see in our photographs please contact us at the store 609-494-5162. Many of the items can be shipped throughout the country. Photographs by John Martinelli

Curtis and Peggy had been thinking of a kitchen remodel for quite some time, but they knew their house would have a unique set of challenges. Their older Victorian house was built in 1891. The kitchen cabinetry was original, and they wanted to keep the authenticity of their period home while adding modern comforts that would improve their quality of life. A friend recommended Advance Design Studio for their exceptional experience and quality of work. After meeting with designer Michelle Lecinski at Advance Design, they were confident they could partner with Advance to accomplish the unique kitchen renovation they’d been talking about for years. “We wanted to do the kitchen for a long, long time,” Curtis said. “(We asked ourselves) what are we actually going to do? How are we going to do this? And who are we going to find to do exactly what we want?” The goal for the project was to keep the home renovation and new kitchen feeling authentic to the time in which it was built. They desperately wanted the modern comforts that come with a larger refrigerator and the dishwasher that they never had! The old home was also a bit drafty so adding a fireplace, wall insulation and new windows became a priority. They very much wanted to create a comfortable hearth room adjacent to the kitchen, complete with old world brick. The original cabinetry had to go to make way for beautiful new kitchen cabinetry that appears as if it was a hundred years old, but with all the benefits of cutting-edge storage, self-closing drawers, and a brand-new look. “We just wanted to keep it old looking, but with some modern updates,” Peggy said. Dura Supreme Highland Cabinets with a Heritage Old World Painted Finish replaced the original 1891 cabinets. The hand-applied careful rubbed-off detailing makes these exquisite cabinets look as if they came from a far-gone era. Despite the small size of the kitchen, Peggy, Curtis and Michelle utilized every inch with custom cabinet sizes to increase storage capacity. The custom cabinets allowed for the addition of a 24” Fisher Paykel dishwasher with a concealing Dura Supreme door panel. Michelle was also able to work into the new design a larger 30” Fisher Paykel French refrigerator. “We made every ¼ inch count in this small space,” designer Michelle said. “Having the ability to custom size the cabinetry was the only way to achieve this.” “The kitchen essentially was designed around the Heartland Vintage range and oven,” says Michelle. A classic appliance that combines nostalgic beauty and craftsmanship for modern cooking, with nickel plated trim and elegantly shaped handles and legs; the not to miss range is a striking focal point of the entire room and an engaging conversation piece. Granite countertops in Kodiak Satin with subtle veining kept with the old-world style. The delicate porcelain La Vie Crackle Sonoma tile kitchen backsplash compliments the home’s style perfectly. A handcrafted passthrough designed to show off Peggy’s fine china was custom built by project carpenters Justin Davis and Jeff Dallain to physically and visually open the space. Additional storage was created in the custom panty room with Latte Edinburg cabinets, hand-made weathered wood shelving with authentic black iron brackets, and an intricate tin copper ceiling. Peggy and Curtis loved the idea of adding a Vermont stove to make the hearth-room not only functional, but a truly beckoning place to be. A stunning Bordeaux red Vermont Castings Stove with crisp black ventilation was chosen and combined with the authentic reclaimed Chicago brick wall. Advance’s talented carpenters custom-built elegant weathered shelves to house family memorabilia, installed carefully chosen barn sconces, and made the hearth room an inviting place to relax with a cup of coffee and a good book. “Peggy and Curtis’ project was so much fun to work on. Creating a space that looks and feels like it always belonged in this beautiful old Victorian home is a designer’s dream. To see the delight in their faces when they saw the design details coming together truly made it worth the time and effort that went into making the very compact kitchen space work”, said Michelle. “The result is an amazing custom kitchen, packed with functionality in every inch, nook and cranny!” exclaims Michelle. The renovation didn’t end with the kitchen. New Pella windows were added to help lessen the drafts. The removal of the original windows and trim necessitated the re-creation of hand-made corbels and trim details no longer available today. The talented carpenter team came to the rescue, crafting new pieces and masterfully finishing them as if they were always there. New custom gutters were formed and installed with a front entry rework necessary to accommodate the changes. The whole house functions better, but it still feels like the original 1891 home. “From start to finish it’s just a much better space than we used to have,” Peggy said. “Jeff and Justin were amazing.” Curtis added; “We were lucky to find Advance Design, because they really came through for us. I loved that they had everything in house, anything you needed to have done, they could do it”.

This existing client reached out to MMI Design for help shortly after the flood waters of Harvey subsided. Her home was ravaged by 5 feet of water throughout the first floor. What had been this client's long-term dream renovation became a reality, turning the nightmare of Harvey's wrath into one of the loveliest homes designed to date by MMI. We led the team to transform this home into a showplace. Our work included a complete redesign of her kitchen and family room, master bathroom, two powders, butler's pantry, and a large living room. MMI designed all millwork and cabinetry, adjusted the floor plans in various rooms, and assisted the client with all material specifications and furnishings selections. Returning these clients to their beautiful '"new" home is one of MMI's proudest moments!

Patio and Pool in Remodeling Long Beach, CA photo by A-List Builders
Pool - large tropical infinity pool idea in Los Angeles

We converted this old porch into this new kitchen. Space that this 1930's cape code style house desperately needed. We put money into the construction of the space, ensure long term comfort and efficiency; while keeping all finishing material relatively moderate in cost to fit home owner's need.