This exciting ‘whole house’ project began when a couple contacted us while house shopping. They found a 1980s contemporary colonial in Delafield with a great wooded lot on Nagawicka Lake. The kitchen and bathrooms were outdated but it had plenty of space and potential. We toured the home, learned about their design style and dream for the new space. The goal of this project was to create a contemporary space that was interesting and unique. Above all, they wanted a home where they could entertain and make a future. At first, the couple thought they wanted to remodel only the kitchen and master suite. But after seeing Kowalske Kitchen & Bath’s design for transforming the entire house, they wanted to remodel it all. The couple purchased the home and hired us as the design-build-remodel contractor. First Floor Remodel The biggest transformation of this home is the first floor. The original entry was dark and closed off. By removing the dining room walls, we opened up the space for a grand entry into the kitchen and dining room. The open-concept kitchen features a large navy island, blue subway tile backsplash, bamboo wood shelves and fun lighting. On the first floor, we also turned a bathroom/sauna into a full bathroom and powder room. We were excited to give them a ‘wow’ powder room with a yellow penny tile wall, floating bamboo vanity and chic geometric cement tile floor. Second Floor Remodel The second floor remodel included a fireplace landing area, master suite, and turning an open loft area into a bedroom and bathroom. In the master suite, we removed a large whirlpool tub and reconfigured the bathroom/closet space. For a clean and classic look, the couple chose a black and white color pallet. We used subway tile on the walls in the large walk-in shower, a glass door with matte black finish, hexagon tile on the floor, a black vanity and quartz counters. Flooring, trim and doors were updated throughout the home for a cohesive look.

The homeowners of this Marblehead residence wished to remodel their master bathroom, which had been redone only a few years prior. The previous renovation, however, was not a pleasant experience and they were hesitant to dive-in again. After an initial conversation, the homeowners agreed to meet with me to discuss the project. listened to their vision for the room, paid close attention to their concerns, and desire to create a tranquil environment, that would be functional and practical for their everyday lifestyle. In my first walk-through of the existing bathroom, several major issues became apparent. First, the vanity, a wooden table with two vessel sinks, did not allow access to the medicine cabinets due to its depth. Second, an oversized window installed in the shower did not provide privacy and had visible signs of rot. Third, the wallpaper by the shower was peeling and contained mold due to moisture. Finally, the hardwood flooring selected was impractical for a master bathroom. My suggestion was to incorporate timeless and classic materials that would provide longevity and create an elegant environment. I designed a standard depth custom vanity which contained plenty of storage. We chose lovely white and blue quartzite counter tops, white porcelain tile that mimic the look of Thasos marble, along with blue accents, polished chrome fixtures and coastal inspired lighting. Next, we replaced, relocated, and changed the window style and shape. We then fabricated a window frame out of the quartzite for protection which proved to give the shower a lovely focal point. Lastly, to keep with the coastal theme of the room, we installed shiplap for the walls. The homeowners now look forward to starting and ending their day in their bright and relaxing master bath. It has become a sanctuary to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The homeowners of this Marblehead residence wished to remodel their master bathroom, which had been redone only a few years prior. The previous renovation, however, was not a pleasant experience and they were hesitant to dive-in again. After an initial conversation, the homeowners agreed to meet with me to discuss the project. listened to their vision for the room, paid close attention to their concerns, and desire to create a tranquil environment, that would be functional and practical for their everyday lifestyle. In my first walk-through of the existing bathroom, several major issues became apparent. First, the vanity, a wooden table with two vessel sinks, did not allow access to the medicine cabinets due to its depth. Second, an oversized window installed in the shower did not provide privacy and had visible signs of rot. Third, the wallpaper by the shower was peeling and contained mold due to moisture. Finally, the hardwood flooring selected was impractical for a master bathroom. My suggestion was to incorporate timeless and classic materials that would provide longevity and create an elegant environment. I designed a standard depth custom vanity which contained plenty of storage. We chose lovely white and blue quartzite counter tops, white porcelain tile that mimic the look of Thasos marble, along with blue accents, polished chrome fixtures and coastal inspired lighting. Next, we replaced, relocated, and changed the window style and shape. We then fabricated a window frame out of the quartzite for protection which proved to give the shower a lovely focal point. Lastly, to keep with the coastal theme of the room, we installed shiplap for the walls. The homeowners now look forward to starting and ending their day in their bright and relaxing master bath. It has become a sanctuary to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The Challenge As the most intimate room in most people’s homes, this bedroom begged for a makeover to transform it from an everyday room into a relaxing retreat. The Solution By combining functional pieces peppered with intricate detail and with one-of-a-kind artwork, this room became and area of escape. The addition of a handcrafted hanging chair created an intimate space to reflect back on the day and peer out into the lush, green backyard.

Make your bathroom your everyday getaway by using our handmade Wave shower tile in Bora Bora. DESIGN Kristin Riccio Interior Design PHOTOS Brad Knipstein Photography Tile Shown: Wave in Bora Bora

Open concept kitchen - rustic u-shaped light wood floor open concept kitchen idea in Minneapolis with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, blue cabinets, soapstone countertops, white backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and black countertops

This master bath ‘Renovision’ came with three main requests from the homeowner: more storage, a larger shower and a luxurious look that feels like being at an upscale hotel. The Renovisions team accomplished these wishes and exceeded the clients expectations. Request number 1: more storage. The existing closet was reconfigured to accommodate better storage for towels and bath supplies making it both functional and attractive. The custom built pull-out hamper was perfect. The long vanity and center tower offers much more cabinet space and drawer storage compared to what they had, especially with the increased vanity height. Request number 2: A larger shower. Working within the existing footprint we were able to build a shower that is nearly a foot deeper as space was available. Creating a large rectangular cubby provides plenty of space for shampoos and soaps. The frameless sliding glass shower enclosure keeps the space open and airy while allowing the beautiful Carrera-look porcelain wall tiles to be the focus of this master bath. Request number 3: a luxurious look. Turning their once boring, builder grade bathroom into an upscale hotel-like space was challenging, however, not a problem for the Renovisions team and their creative ways of resolving design snags along the way. Re-locating the doorway to the bathroom was one way to create a more spacious flow in and out of the space. Having the right design to start was half the battle – installing the beautiful products right the first time to ensure a proper fit and finish worthy of the upscale feel is the other half. The delicate tile detail in the shower cubby is the ‘jewelry’ in the room – the soft curves of this 2-tone wave design tile adds a dramatic feel and enlightened mood this client loves. Overall, the homeowner was happy with every solution-based approach to all requests – their once dated builders bath is now bright, open and airy with a soft grey wall color adding to the soothing feel of this master bath.

Refined dining space with a warm palette and statement lighting, designed for both everyday meals and entertaining
Dining room - transitional dining room idea in Baltimore

Most clients love the look of relaxed Roman shades, but don't like to fuss with them when they are raised and lowered everyday. That's why we had Roman valances made here - the Hunter Douglas pleated shade hanging beneath the valance is the workable privacy layer. The pleated shade also has top down, bottom up functionality, so it can be positioned on the lower half of the window much like a café curtain. The fabric bands are 6" wide - just the right width to add a stunning effect.

Every home improvement project can feel like going into battle, but the sweet taste of victory is enough to make it worthwhile. If you ever feel intimidated by homes and gardens in magazines, don’t fret – you can turn your home into a beautiful beacon with easy curb appeal updates! Kevin and Annette Klingel are some of our favorite weekend warriors, and their latest project proves that anything is possible when it comes to dressing up your front garden. The Klingels recently gave their home and front garden a major renovation and entered their photos in the Window Box Contest. When we saw the gorgeous before and after pictures, we knew we had to get the inside scoop on their process and uncover their best curb appeal ideas. Curb Appeal – Before and After Before the renovation, the Klingels had a charming South Bend, Indiana rambler that was tidy and traditional, if a little unassuming. Deciding it was time for a much-needed update, the Klingels replaced their old green roof with a black barrel roof to match the style of their home. They also made a needed replacement and changed out the sidewalk and front stoop to a new version in classic black. After those dramatic changes, the Klingels just couldn’t stop! Loving the contrast between the new black roof and stoop and their cream house, they painted their shutters black. And here’s where we come in – Annette wanted to incorporate her love of flowers into the new home design and found the perfect planters and window boxes to match the shutters. They purchased ten black window boxes in a classic and chic design to put around their outside windows. The Klingels also used tall black planters around the entrance to the house. The window boxes and planters each received the same plant treatment – red, yellow, and orange impatiens with flowing ferns for a bright punch of color. Paired with hanging baskets and a few other accents, the Klingels house is now a masterpiece. From Drab to Fab The Klingels love their warm and inviting new front entrance, and the neighbors do too. Instead of getting overlooked, their house now stands out and is the star of their busy street, where it is seen by lots of people everyday. They have received tons of compliments about their new look – a crisp and clean front garden that stays true to the style of the home and neighborhood. The Klingels’ curb appeal update wasn’t without its challenges, but the end product is amazing, and as Annette says, definitely worth the time. The Klingels recommend starting with the necessary replacements and finding beautiful matching pieces to add curb appeal. With a little patience, elbow grease, and the help of a great garden supply store like Hooks & Lattice, you too can have the home of your dreams. Photos: Kevin & Annette Klingel

Transitional living room photo in Minneapolis

This raised spa freeform pool truly captives South Florida living for you and the family. Adults can enjoy the spa and get a tan everyday of year practically. With the tropical landscaping and a tall fence you can see it is very private.

This transitional, feminine bathroom was rebuilt after flood damage to feel soft, bright, and calming. A light white tile palette, warm champagne bronze accents, and clean-lined cabinetry create a serene retreat designed for everyday comfort.

This inviting kitchen renovation balances classic craftsmanship with fresh, transitional style. Our clients loved the timeless bones of their home but were ready for a space that felt brighter, more functional, and infused with personality. We kept the original cabinetry layout, refinishing the perimeter in a soft, creamy hue that instantly lifted the room, then introduced a rich green island to anchor the space and bring warmth and contrast. A glossy handmade tile backsplash adds depth and subtle color variation, complementing the mixed metal details throughout—from the brass hardware to the black-and-brass statement lighting. The large island now serves as the heart of the kitchen with updated seating, a spacious quartz countertop for everyday prep, and plenty of room for gathering. To enhance functionality, we transformed an unused wall into a hardworking home office nook featuring floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, floating shelves, and a playful mosaic wallpaper that adds texture without overwhelming the space. Natural wood floors, layered styling elements, and organic touches round out the design, creating a kitchen that feels both elevated and deeply livable—perfect for cooking, entertaining, and everyday family life.

Custom built by DCAM HOMES, one of Oakville’s most reputable builders. South of Lakeshore and steps to the lake, this newly built modern custom home features over 3,200 square feet of stylish living space in a prime location! This stunning home provides large principal rooms that flow seamlessly from one another. The open concept design features soaring 24-foot ceilings with floor to ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light. A home office is located off the entrance foyer creating a private oasis away from the main living area. The double storey ceiling in the family room automatically draws your eyes towards the open riser wood staircase, an architectural delight. This space also features an extra wide, 74” fireplace for everyone to enjoy. The thoughtfully designed chef’s kitchen was imported from Italy. An oversized island is the center focus of this room. Other highlights include top of the line built-in Miele appliances and gorgeous two-toned touch latch custom cabinetry. With everyday convenience in mind - the mudroom, with access from the garage, is the perfect place for your family to “drop everything”. This space has built-in cabinets galore – providing endless storage. Upstairs the master bedroom features a modern layout with open concept spa-like master ensuite features shower with body jets and steam shower stand-alone tub and stunning master vanity. This master suite also features beautiful corner windows and custom built-in wardrobes. The second and third bedroom also feature custom wardrobes and share a convenient jack-and-jill bathroom. Laundry is also found on this level. Beautiful outdoor areas expand your living space – surrounded by mature trees and a private fence, this will be the perfect end of day retreat! This home was designed with both style and function in mind to create both a warm and inviting living space.

Architect: Architects Ink Photographer: Sam Noonan Photography
Entryway - mid-century modern gray floor entryway idea in Los Angeles with gray walls and a glass front door

A close-up of the beautiful Aram White granite that was selected for the space and the coordinating glass & stone mosaic that runs through the subway tiles on the backsplash. Photo by Visual Memories Photography

Inspiration for a transitional dining room remodel in New York

Southwest meets the Northwest. This client wanted a real rustic southwest style. The perimeter is rustic rough sawn knotty alder and the Island is hand painted rustic pine. The wide plank wood top is the center piece to this kitchen. Lots of colorful Mexican tile give depth to the earth tones. All the cabinets are custom made by KC Fine Cabinetry.