Open-concept l-shaped kitchen with center island © Cindy Apple Photography
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized contemporary l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Seattle with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, blue backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall. The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home. Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup! One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space. The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back. We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed. Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it! We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake! Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs. We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together. We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown. Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility. The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels. The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy. This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

he Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

The Milea 6-Piece Deep Sofa Sectional Set is something new in the world of outdoor furniture. Designed to offer a contemporary style not typically seen in outdoor sectional couches, this set looks as at-home on the beach as it does in the countryside. Whether you routinely hold large summer gatherings or you want to start, this set is the perfect outdoor furniture for a great time. Features: Set includes a two-piece sofa, two armless chairs, a corner chair, coordinated accent pillows, and a conversation table. Powder-coated aluminum frame is lightweight and rust-free. Durable Viro® wicker lasts up to five times longer than other wickers. Cushions are wrapped in all-weather, fade resistant Sunbrella® fabric. Engineered for both hot and cold climates. Easy to clean with a mild soap and water. Designed to coordinate with the pieces in the Milea Collection by RST Brands.

Lato - Modin Rigid Collection Installed throughout customer's beautiful, East Coast home. Rooms include the kitchen, hallway, living room, and dining room. The Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

he Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

A classic select grade natural oak. Timeless and versatile. The Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

A classic select grade natural oak. Timeless and versatile. The Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

Inspiration for a large modern l-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel in Seattle with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops

A classic select grade natural oak. Timeless and versatile. The Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

Lachlan - Modin Rigid Collection Installed throughout customer's beautiful home. Influenced by classic Nordic design. Surprisingly flexible with furnishings. Amplify by continuing the clean modern aesthetic, or punctuate with statement pieces. The Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

Image by Ema Peter Photography; design by McCleod Bovell Modern Houses

he Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

Hallmark Floors, engineered hardwood floors, color Autumn Stone. To see the rest of the colors in the collection visit HallmarkFloors.com or contact us to order your new floors today! Hallmark Floors Heirloom Autumn Stone hardwood floor HEIRLOOM COLLECTION URL http://hallmarkfloors.com/hallmark-hardwoods/heirloom-hardwood-floors/ Simply Fashionable Moderno Hardwood Collection starts with dramatic color visuals equal to contemporary high end furniture. Our evolutionary Glaze Tek Poly Finish employs Hand touched color glazing for depth, movement and natural artistic visuals. Moderno features fashionably longer 6′ – 7’ board lengths, with 6” widths. Glaze Tek is up to 3 times more wear resistant than standard poly finishes. In addition to incredibly durable finish, Moderno engineered floors has a 4mm multi-generational wear layer (twice as thick as our competitors). Moderno hardwood collection is the perfect balance of artistry and craftsmanship.

The Milea 8-Piece Deep Seating Set is the perfect outdoor furniture set for gathering around with friends and family. This contemporary furniture set utilizes a mixed material aesthetic for a chic look with balanced proportions. Whether you routinely hold large summer gatherings or you want to start, the Milana 8-Piece Deep Seating Set is the perfect outdoor furniture for a great time. Features: Set includes a two-piece sofa, two club chairs, two club ottomans, coordinated accent pillows, a coffee table and side table. Powder-coated aluminum frame is lightweight and rust-free. Durable Viro® wicker lasts up to five times longer than other wickers. Cushions are wrapped in all-weather, fade resistant Sunbrella® fabric. Engineered for both hot and cold climates. Easy to clean with a mild soap and water. Designed to coordinate with the pieces in the Milea Collection by RST Brands.

rob lowell
Huge transitional open concept dark wood floor and brown floor living room photo in New York with white walls and a standard fireplace

The Milea 6-Piece Deep Sofa Sectional Set is something new in the world of outdoor furniture. Designed to offer a contemporary style not typically seen in outdoor sectional couches, this set looks as at-home on the beach as it does in the countryside. Whether you routinely hold large summer gatherings or you want to start, this set is the perfect outdoor furniture for a great time. Features: Set includes a two-piece sofa, two armless chairs, a corner chair, coordinated accent pillows, and a conversation table. Powder-coated aluminum frame is lightweight and rust-free. Durable Viro® wicker lasts up to five times longer than other wickers. Cushions are wrapped in all-weather, fade resistant Sunbrella® fabric. Engineered for both hot and cold climates. Easy to clean with a mild soap and water. Designed to coordinate with the pieces in the Milea Collection by RST Brands.

A classic select grade natural oak. Timeless and versatile. Available in Base. he Modin Rigid luxury vinyl plank flooring collection is the new standard in resilient flooring. Modin Rigid offers true embossed-in-register texture, creating a surface that is convincing to the eye and to the touch; a low sheen level to ensure a natural look that wears well over time; four-sided enhanced bevels to more accurately emulate the look of real wood floors; wider and longer waterproof planks; an industry-leading wear layer; and a pre-attached underlayment.

The client’s brief was to create a space reminiscent of their beloved downtown Chicago industrial loft, in a rural farm setting, while incorporating their unique collection of vintage and architectural salvage. The result is a custom designed space that blends life on the farm with an industrial sensibility. The new house is located on approximately the same footprint as the original farm house on the property. Barely visible from the road due to the protection of conifer trees and a long driveway, the house sits on the edge of a field with views of the neighbouring 60 acre farm and creek that runs along the length of the property. The main level open living space is conceived as a transparent social hub for viewing the landscape. Large sliding glass doors create strong visual connections with an adjacent barn on one end and a mature black walnut tree on the other. The house is situated to optimize views, while at the same time protecting occupants from blazing summer sun and stiff winter winds. The wall to wall sliding doors on the south side of the main living space provide expansive views to the creek, and allow for breezes to flow throughout. The wrap around aluminum louvered sun shade tempers the sun. The subdued exterior material palette is defined by horizontal wood siding, standing seam metal roofing and large format polished concrete blocks. The interiors were driven by the owners’ desire to have a home that would properly feature their unique vintage collection, and yet have a modern open layout. Polished concrete floors and steel beams on the main level set the industrial tone and are paired with a stainless steel island counter top, backsplash and industrial range hood in the kitchen. An old drinking fountain is built-in to the mudroom millwork, carefully restored bi-parting doors frame the library entrance, and a vibrant antique stained glass panel is set into the foyer wall allowing diffused coloured light to spill into the hallway. Upstairs, refurbished claw foot tubs are situated to view the landscape. The double height library with mezzanine serves as a prominent feature and quiet retreat for the residents. The white oak millwork exquisitely displays the homeowners’ vast collection of books and manuscripts. The material palette is complemented by steel counter tops, stainless steel ladder hardware and matte black metal mezzanine guards. The stairs carry the same language, with white oak open risers and stainless steel woven wire mesh panels set into a matte black steel frame. The overall effect is a truly sublime blend of an industrial modern aesthetic punctuated by personal elements of the owners’ storied life. Photography: James Brittain