The top priorities for this remodel were to create a kitchen with an expansive island to indulge the homeowner’s passion for baking and open up the floor plan for better connectivity to the main hall, stairway and new enclosed porch. Our clients did not need the formal living room, so we combined the existing kitchen and dining room, allowing for an 8’10”x 5’2” island. The island has plenty of room for baking plus room to seat six for informal meals or gatherings. The remodeled kitchen includes some kid-friendly features such as the lower microwave placement in the island outside of the main work zone and the drink station with mini-fridge located right off the main hall. The selections in the remodeled kitchen are classic and timeless. Perimeter cabinets are maple wood with a marshmallow cream tinted varnish with a Cambria countertop in Clyde, a sandy/rosy hue. The island cabinets are alder wood with a cappuccino stain with a Cambria countertop in Darlington, with accents of khaki and olive. A ceramic tile backsplash compliments the earthy tones. The flooring throughout is 2 ¼” hardwood oak.

The top priorities for this remodel were to create a kitchen with an expansive island to indulge the homeowner’s passion for baking and open up the floor plan for better connectivity to the main hall, stairway and new enclosed porch. Our clients did not need the formal living room, so we combined the existing kitchen and dining room, allowing for an 8’10”x 5’2” island. The island has plenty of room for baking plus room to seat six for informal meals or gatherings. The remodeled kitchen includes some kid-friendly features such as the lower microwave placement in the island outside of the main work zone and the drink station with mini-fridge located right off the main hall. The selections in the remodeled kitchen are classic and timeless. Perimeter cabinets are maple wood with a marshmallow cream tinted varnish with a Cambria countertop in Clyde, a sandy/rosy hue. The island cabinets are alder wood with a cappuccino stain with a Cambria countertop in Darlington, with accents of khaki and olive. A ceramic tile backsplash compliments the earthy tones. The flooring throughout is 2 ¼” hardwood oak.

The top priorities for this remodel were to create a kitchen with an expansive island to indulge the homeowner’s passion for baking and open up the floor plan for better connectivity to the main hall, stairway and new enclosed porch. Our clients did not need the formal living room, so we combined the existing kitchen and dining room, allowing for an 8’10”x 5’2” island. The island has plenty of room for baking plus room to seat six for informal meals or gatherings. The remodeled kitchen includes some kid-friendly features such as the lower microwave placement in the island outside of the main work zone and the drink station with mini-fridge located right off the main hall. The selections in the remodeled kitchen are classic and timeless. Perimeter cabinets are maple wood with a marshmallow cream tinted varnish with a Cambria countertop in Clyde, a sandy/rosy hue. The island cabinets are alder wood with a cappuccino stain with a Cambria countertop in Darlington, with accents of khaki and olive. A ceramic tile backsplash compliments the earthy tones. The flooring throughout is 2 ¼” hardwood oak.

The top priorities for this remodel were to create a kitchen with an expansive island to indulge the homeowner’s passion for baking and open up the floor plan for better connectivity to the main hall, stairway and new enclosed porch. Our clients did not need the formal living room, so we combined the existing kitchen and dining room, allowing for an 8’10”x 5’2” island. The island has plenty of room for baking plus room to seat six for informal meals or gatherings. The remodeled kitchen includes some kid-friendly features such as the lower microwave placement in the island outside of the main work zone and the drink station with mini-fridge located right off the main hall. The selections in the remodeled kitchen are classic and timeless. Perimeter cabinets are maple wood with a marshmallow cream tinted varnish with a Cambria countertop in Clyde, a sandy/rosy hue. The island cabinets are alder wood with a cappuccino stain with a Cambria countertop in Darlington, with accents of khaki and olive. A ceramic tile backsplash compliments the earthy tones. The flooring throughout is 2 ¼” hardwood oak.

This walk-in pantry was designed as a true extension of the kitchen — a space where function, organization, and accessibility take priority. Open shelving allows for easy visibility and reach, while a dedicated prep sink supports meal preparation, cleanup, and entertaining without crowding the main kitchen. Durable surfaces, generous counter space, and integrated storage make the pantry both practical and pleasant to use. Thoughtful details like adjustable shelving and concealed storage areas ensure everything has a place, keeping the main kitchen calm and uncluttered. Designed around how the homeowners cook and entertain, this pantry supports a well-organized home and simplifies daily routines — a quiet luxury that makes a noticeable difference over time.

The top priorities for this remodel were to create a kitchen with an expansive island to indulge the homeowner’s passion for baking and open up the floor plan for better connectivity to the main hall, stairway and new enclosed porch. Our clients did not need the formal living room, so we combined the existing kitchen and dining room, allowing for an 8’10”x 5’2” island. The island has plenty of room for baking plus room to seat six for informal meals or gatherings. The remodeled kitchen includes some kid-friendly features such as the lower microwave placement in the island outside of the main work zone and the drink station with mini-fridge located right off the main hall. The selections in the remodeled kitchen are classic and timeless. Perimeter cabinets are maple wood with a marshmallow cream tinted varnish with a Cambria countertop in Clyde, a sandy/rosy hue. The island cabinets are alder wood with a cappuccino stain with a Cambria countertop in Darlington, with accents of khaki and olive. A ceramic tile backsplash compliments the earthy tones. The flooring throughout is 2 ¼” hardwood oak.

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This charming little attic bath was an infrequently used guest bath located on the 3rd floor right above the master bath that we were also remodeling. The beautiful original leaded glass windows open to a view of the park and small lake across the street. A vintage claw foot tub sat directly below the window. This is where the charm ended though as everything was sorely in need of updating. From the pieced-together wall cladding to the exposed electrical wiring and old galvanized plumbing, it was in definite need of a gut job. Plus the hardwood flooring leaked into the bathroom below which was priority one to fix. Once we gutted the space, we got to rebuilding the room. We wanted to keep the cottage-y charm, so we started with simple white herringbone marble tile on the floor and clad all the walls with soft white shiplap paneling. A new clawfoot tub/shower under the original window was added. Next, to allow for a larger vanity with more storage, we moved the toilet over and eliminated a mish mash of storage pieces. We discovered that with separate hot/cold supplies that were the only thing available for a claw foot tub with a shower kit, building codes require a pressure balance valve to prevent scalding, so we had to install a remote valve. We learn something new on every job! There is a view to the park across the street through the home’s original custom shuttered windows. Can’t you just smell the fresh air? We found a vintage dresser and had it lacquered in high gloss black and converted it into a vanity. The clawfoot tub was also painted black. Brass lighting, plumbing and hardware details add warmth to the room, which feels right at home in the attic of this traditional home. We love how the combination of traditional and charming come together in this sweet attic guest bath. Truly a room with a view! 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

The top priorities for this remodel were to create a kitchen with an expansive island to indulge the homeowner’s passion for baking and open up the floor plan for better connectivity to the main hall, stairway and new enclosed porch. Our clients did not need the formal living room, so we combined the existing kitchen and dining room, allowing for an 8’10”x 5’2” island. The island has plenty of room for baking plus room to seat six for informal meals or gatherings. The remodeled kitchen includes some kid-friendly features such as the lower microwave placement in the island outside of the main work zone and the drink station with mini-fridge located right off the main hall. The selections in the remodeled kitchen are classic and timeless. Perimeter cabinets are maple wood with a marshmallow cream tinted varnish with a Cambria countertop in Clyde, a sandy/rosy hue. The island cabinets are alder wood with a cappuccino stain with a Cambria countertop in Darlington, with accents of khaki and olive. A ceramic tile backsplash compliments the earthy tones. The flooring throughout is 2 ¼” hardwood oak.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

Bernard Andre'
Inspiration for a large transitional master medium tone wood floor bedroom remodel in San Francisco with white walls, a standard fireplace and a stone fireplace

When the homeowner bought this Townhome, she knew that a new kitchen was a priority. The outdated kitchen was dark and not efficient. Create a more useful space and bring the light in was the main request for this design. Removing a built-in large pantry allowed for more countertop and to relocate the refrigerator. A smaller but more efficient pantry was installed by the kitchen entrance what helps with the organization of the grocery shopping. The glass backsplash brought color to the white cabinet kitchen, creating a fun and excited space! Photos: Pathway Media, LLC

Counterspace and cabinet storage were two of the main priorities in this kitchen remodel. We focused on incorporating as much cabinet storage as possible by including overhead storage decorated with white crown molding along all three walls in this space. The expansive quartz kitchen countertops are another functional part of this kitchen, and the peninsiula adds extra room for pood prepation in this mid sized kitchen. John Anderson

In our design focused on creating a home that acts as an art gallery and an entertaining space without remodeling. Priorities based on our client’s lifestyle. By turning the typical living room into a gallery space we created an area for conversation and cocktails. We tucked the TV watching away into a secondary bedroom. We designed the master bedroom around the artwork over the bed. The low custom bold blue upholstered bed is the main color in that space throwing your attention to the art.

The brief from the owners was loud and clear – they wanted an industrial, organic aesthetic with lots of steel and easy-clean, robust surfaces. An entertainer’s kitchen with a good connection to the barbecue deck was high on their list of priorities. They were also keen to display ornaments and plants, so some shelving with LED lighting was desirable. The designer says, although the existing kitchen was a high-end kitchen, it was visually overpowering and it wasn’t practical, with bench space around the cooking centre greatly compromised. “The kitchen was quite congested – it didn’t have a good flow.” However, the biggest challenge was the awkward shape, which was determined by the contemporary architecture. “When I first saw it, I had to leave it for a week as it was quite overwhelming with all the corners and angles. And it’s true, sometimes the best ideas come to you in the middle of the night.” The family had a system in place that worked well, and therefore they had very specific ideas on where they wanted two of the main working centres. “The clean-up centre with a large sink, DishDrawers, bins and a stainless steel bench top was to be located in the scullery, with a smaller secondary sink located out in the main kitchen for preparation.”

This luxury promontory project was designed with the future resident’s comfort in mind. Bringing nature inside, strategically placed windows flood all levels with natural light while wood finishes bring a subtle warmth to the home. This residence balances traditional elements with touches of rustic warmth. The stone embodies the exterior with accents of large timber beams. The main floor features an open concept plan from the foyer to the kitchen, while the master bath embodies a haven for respite after a long day on the slopes or golf course. One of the best parts of this bathroom is a large sauna with a bench where you can see the skyline. The basement main priority in the design and construction is for entertaining. You can access this room by an elevator if you choose not to take the beautiful curved stairway. The entertainment room has been designed with a wet bar, custom air-controlled guitar case and a sound proof music room.

Here, our clients hoped to introduce a mix of modern elements to their traditional country home. The space was remodelled from top to bottom as we accommodated the varying objectives of the homeowners. Structurally, this included installing coffer ceilings and elongating select windows to reach the floor. These windows, as well as heightened ceilings, make the most out of the light for this East-facing home, which is finally a fitting welcome for the glorious morning sun. Moving through the home, modern touches can be found throughout, especially in the kitchen and main living areas. A stylish wood-front fireplace provides the perfect place to gather and relax, while a newly optimized kitchen with an array of strategically positioned storage spaces, modern accoutrements, and traditional mouldings makes entertaining a breeze. Accessibility and the ability to age in place was another priority for this couple. To achieve both, we ensured our clients’ essentials were designed for the main floor. The installation of a roll-in and barrier-free steam shower, and small accommodative features like the sliding ladder in the roomy walk-in closet ensure this space will stand the test of time. Now a beautiful, functional, and elegant space, this couple no longer need to consider moving from the place they've so lovingly called home.

Here, our clients hoped to introduce a mix of modern elements to their traditional country home. The space was remodelled from top to bottom as we accommodated the varying objectives of the homeowners. Structurally, this included installing coffer ceilings and elongating select windows to reach the floor. These windows, as well as heightened ceilings, make the most out of the light for this East-facing home, which is finally a fitting welcome for the glorious morning sun. Moving through the home, modern touches can be found throughout, especially in the kitchen and main living areas. A stylish wood-front fireplace provides the perfect place to gather and relax, while a newly optimized kitchen with an array of strategically positioned storage spaces, modern accoutrements, and traditional mouldings makes entertaining a breeze. Accessibility and the ability to age in place was another priority for this couple. To achieve both, we ensured our clients’ essentials were designed for the main floor. The installation of a roll-in and barrier-free steam shower, and small accommodative features like the sliding ladder in the roomy walk-in closet ensure this space will stand the test of time. Now a beautiful, functional, and elegant space, this couple no longer need to consider moving from the place they've so lovingly called home.

Here, our clients hoped to introduce a mix of modern elements to their traditional country home. The space was remodelled from top to bottom as we accommodated the varying objectives of the homeowners. Structurally, this included installing coffer ceilings and elongating select windows to reach the floor. These windows, as well as heightened ceilings, make the most out of the light for this East-facing home, which is finally a fitting welcome for the glorious morning sun. Moving through the home, modern touches can be found throughout, especially in the kitchen and main living areas. A stylish wood-front fireplace provides the perfect place to gather and relax, while a newly optimized kitchen with an array of strategically positioned storage spaces, modern accoutrements, and traditional mouldings makes entertaining a breeze. Accessibility and the ability to age in place was another priority for this couple. To achieve both, we ensured our clients’ essentials were designed for the main floor. The installation of a roll-in and barrier-free steam shower, and small accommodative features like the sliding ladder in the roomy walk-in closet ensure this space will stand the test of time. Now a beautiful, functional, and elegant space, this couple no longer need to consider moving from the place they've so lovingly called home.

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”