The backyard of the Modern Estate is designed as a sophisticated outdoor retreat that blends luxury, entertainment, and modern architectural design. A stunning swimming pool serves as the focal point of the space, featuring a unique in-pool bar that allows guests to enjoy refreshments without ever leaving the water. This resort-style feature creates a vibrant atmosphere for both entertaining and relaxing. Surrounding the pool, expansive patio areas provide space for lounging and gathering while maintaining a seamless connection to the home’s modern architecture. Clean lines, refined materials, and carefully planned landscaping enhance the backyard’s elegant yet inviting ambiance. The integration of the pool, in-water seating, and outdoor entertaining areas transforms the backyard into a private luxury resort, perfectly complementing the elevated lifestyle of the Modern Estate.

Floor-to-ceiling white cabinetry frames the stainless steel refrigerator and maximizes storage while maintaining a seamless, minimalist aesthetic.
Example of a minimalist garage design in Raleigh

©StevenPaulWhitsitt_Photography Frequent entertainers, this large New York family wanted special attention paid to making their new kitchen both stylish and especially welcoming for their guests, so they hired Julie Deuble of Artisan Kitchens & Baths at Appliance Associates. In addition to the logistical issues of working in a high-rise, some of Deuble’s biggest challenges came with incorporating appliances, such as properly venting the 48-inch pro-style range. To integrate several large appliances into the relatively small space while maintaining a seamless appearance, she included custom panels over the refrigerator, dishwasher drawers, and refrigerator drawers. She then housed a microwave and a TV in identical wall cabinets. Since the kitchen opens to the living room, Deuble needed to design it as a space to be shown, not hidden. To achieve this, custom details were included throughout, such as a table-style peninsula with decorative legs, three-stage crown molding, mullion doors, an entertainment center with wine and liquor storage, and a desk designed to match the cabinetry. Well-thoughtout details such as the push-to-open hardware on the peninsula’s full-height cabinet doors provided the finishing touches to this showcase-worthy space. Learn more about this designer at www.artisankitchensandbaths.com.

This 4,140 sqft Spanish-style home underwent an extensive, multi-space remodel designed to preserve its original character while elevating it with custom craftsmanship and high-end materials throughout. The kitchen, pantry, powder room, laundry room, primary closet, and primary bathroom were all thoughtfully redesigned with Spanish-inspired detailing and a refined, luxurious approach. The kitchen is the heart of the remodel and showcases fully custom cabinetry with arched reed columns, bespoke door profiles, and an island wrapped in individually applied oak reeds. Pocket doors conceal a coffee nook, while arched metal-framed glass doors seamlessly integrate into custom arched cabinetry and pantry units. A custom ornamental metal detail doubles as a hanging bar for the banquette’s tailored blue cushions. Cabinet finishes combine soft off-white with lightly stained natural oak. A dramatic custom arched lime-plaster hood anchors the space, featuring hidden storage and a striking Zia tile backsplash above a custom blue BlueStar range. Taj Mahal quartzite wraps the countertops and backsplash, while walls and ceilings are finished in Patagonia Roman clay for added depth and texture. Dornbracht fixtures in brushed champagne gold, Top Knobs hardware, and a blue marble banquette tabletop complete the space. The powder room continues the artisanal theme with a floating microcement countertop, Oska vessel sink by Kast, warm bronze wall-mounted faucet by Graff, alabaster sconces, handmade Moroccan zellige tile flooring, original painted glass windows, and Roman clay walls and ceiling. In the laundry room, custom cabinetry, generous storage, and patterned painted limestone tile flooring maintain the Spanish influence while maximizing function. The primary closet features a custom dark blue closet system, highlighted by an arched illuminated glass display cabinet set atop a Viola marble countertop. Roman clay walls in a deeper blue tone and a sculptural glass chandelier complete the space. The primary bathroom is one of the most distinctive spaces in the home. A custom layout includes a freestanding tub, arched walk-in shower, and bespoke double vanity. Dramatic Dover White marble slabs were bookmatched and carried across half-height walls, shower walls, vanity surfaces, and backsplash. The same marble was meticulously fabricated into custom 4”x4” pieces for the shower pan, allowing the veining to flow seamlessly while maintaining slip resistance. The remaining walls are finished in Concretta microcement for a soft plaster effect. The rift white oak double vanity features curved edges, ribbed side details, and six-panel drawer fronts. Warm bronze fixtures by Graff, arched niches, elliptical mirrors, and custom handmade Voyager sconces by Allied Maker complete this Spanish-inspired sanctuary. This project is a true celebration of craftsmanship, material integrity, and timeless Spanish design, reimagined for modern luxury living.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

This home embodies the art of balance—where sophistication meets warmth, and modernity embraces timeless comfort. Designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, this transformation focused on refining key spaces while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the home. The result is a thoughtfully curated retreat where natural materials, bold accents, and layered textures create an effortless elegance that stands the test of time.

Creating a more refined and functional space was the priority for this powder room update. Every element was carefully selected to enhance style and practicality while maintaining a seamless connection to the rest of the home. A new Waypoint cabinet in Painted Linen replaced the previous vanity, offering a fresh and timeless look. For consistency, the same Top Knobs Pennington handles in flat black were used as in the kitchen, ensuring a cohesive feel. Della Terra Quartz in Everest was chosen for the countertop, providing durability and an elegant surface. A Kohler Verticyl undermount sink and Moen Align matte black faucet completed the vanity area with a streamlined and functional design. A Pottery Barn Vintage Pivot mirror in matte black introduced a stylish focal point, while the Rhodes vanity light fixture with clear glass shades brightened the space. To add character, an accent wall with Art Deco Swans wallpaper brought texture and visual interest.

Our Client decided to renovate and expand her home after living in it for close to 35 years. She had previously worked with John Crawley AIA to remodel her kitchen and dining areas and was ready to undertake the rest of the house. We loved John Crawley's approach of selectively lifting the ceilings and flooding the common areas with light and let this inform our design approach throughout. The addition of the new library and library bath was intended to open up the house to both the interior and the exterior, while maintaining a seamless connection to previous work. The original 1970's house had an outdated master suite with a vanity area outside the tiny bathroom and adjacent tiny closet. Our Client was ready to overhaul the space annexing an adjacent underutilized bedroom for a generous master bath and open it to the beautiful backyard hillside with a private patio. The remainder of the house was given a variety of touches and updates including new windows, bathroom countertops and millwork and new colors throughout. Finally, a brise soleil was added to the front of the house.

This stylish bathroom remodel transforms a traditional tub and shower into a bold, contemporary retreat. The striking charcoal vertical tile creates a dramatic statement while adding height and texture to the space, beautifully complemented by crisp white grout for a clean, modern look. A custom recessed shower niche provides convenient storage while maintaining the seamless aesthetic.

This home embodies the art of balance—where sophistication meets warmth, and modernity embraces timeless comfort. Designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, this transformation focused on refining key spaces while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the home. The result is a thoughtfully curated retreat where natural materials, bold accents, and layered textures create an effortless elegance that stands the test of time.

This kitchen embraces a brighter, more classic approach—where timeless design meets everyday functionality through thoughtfully crafted cabinetry by Canter & Co. Crisp white inset cabinets set the tone for the space, creating a clean and elevated backdrop that feels both refined and inviting. Paired with warm brass hardware and soft under-cabinet lighting, the cabinetry brings subtle depth without overwhelming the room. Glass-front upper cabinets add a layer of openness, allowing for display while maintaining a tailored, built-in look. At the center, a large island wrapped in natural wood introduces warmth and contrast—grounding the space while offering generous prep and seating. The cabinetry here is designed with purpose, seamlessly integrating storage while maintaining the island’s furniture-like presence. Functionality is woven into every detail. From the custom hood surround that anchors the cooking wall to the carefully planned drawer and cabinet configurations, this kitchen was built to be as practical as it is beautiful. The integrated storage solutions and clean lines keep the space uncluttered, while high-end appliances and a classic tile backsplash enhance its timeless appeal. Canter & Co. approached this project with a full-design perspective—ensuring the cabinetry not only complements the architecture of the home but enhances the way the kitchen is used daily. The result is a space that feels effortlessly polished, where classic design and modern living come together seamlessly

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

Full-height custom cabinetry maximizes storage while maintaining a seamless, built-in look. The shaker-style doors and warm brass hardware add subtle detail, balancing traditional craftsmanship with a modern, streamlined feel.

This home embodies the art of balance—where sophistication meets warmth, and modernity embraces timeless comfort. Designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, this transformation focused on refining key spaces while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the home. The result is a thoughtfully curated retreat where natural materials, bold accents, and layered textures create an effortless elegance that stands the test of time.

This home embodies the art of balance—where sophistication meets warmth, and modernity embraces timeless comfort. Designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, this transformation focused on refining key spaces while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the home. The result is a thoughtfully curated retreat where natural materials, bold accents, and layered textures create an effortless elegance that stands the test of time.

This home embodies the art of balance—where sophistication meets warmth, and modernity embraces timeless comfort. Designed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, this transformation focused on refining key spaces while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the home. The result is a thoughtfully curated retreat where natural materials, bold accents, and layered textures create an effortless elegance that stands the test of time.

Elegant Custom Bathroom with Built-In Storage This beautifully designed bathroom features custom-built cabinetry in a sophisticated gray finish, providing ample storage while maintaining a seamless and stylish aesthetic. The floor-to-ceiling cabinets are adorned with sleek black handles, adding a modern contrast to the space. The luxurious dark stone-look tile flooring enhances the depth and warmth of the room. Soft under-cabinet lighting casts a gentle glow, highlighting the elegant double vanity with a marble countertop and matte black fixtures. A hidden TV nook adds a touch of luxury, making this space both functional and indulgent. Perfect for those who appreciate high-end design with practical elements.

Eichler X-100 Rear Exterior & Pool: Where Architecture Meets Landscape The rear exterior of the Eichler X-100 is where the home fully expresses its vision of indoor-outdoor living—a seamless composition of architecture, landscape, and water that feels both sculptural and deeply livable. Designed by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons for Joseph Eichler, this side of the home transforms the backyard into an extension of the interior experience. A Wall of Glass to the Landscape The rear façade is defined by expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls, dissolving the boundary between inside and out. Living spaces open directly to the backyard, allowing light, air, and views to flow freely through the home. From nearly every angle, the outdoors becomes part of the architecture. The Pool as a Design Element At the center of the backyard is a striking geometric pool, often described as being formed through intersecting circular forms. This is not just a recreational feature—it is a deliberate extension of the home’s architectural language. The curves of the pool contrast with the linear steel structure, creating a balanced interplay between softness and precision. Outdoor Living, Elevated The rear grounds are carefully composed to support both relaxation and entertaining: Integrated patio and seating areas Clean hardscape that echoes the home’s geometry Landscaping that enhances privacy while maintaining openness Every element is intentional, reinforcing a sense of calm and cohesion. A Continuous Flow of Space Large sliding glass panels allow the interior to open fully to the backyard, turning the living areas into an open-air pavilion. Whether hosting guests or enjoying a quiet moment, the transition between interior and exterior is effortless. This is California Modernism in its purest form. Framed Views and Privacy Despite the openness, the design maintains a strong sense of privacy and enclosure. The positioning of the home, landscaping, and surrounding elements creates a protected environment—one that feels expansive without being exposed. A Lifestyle, Not Just a Backyard The rear exterior of the Eichler X-100 is more than a setting—it is a lifestyle environment, where architecture and nature work together to shape daily life. It’s where morning light reflects off the water, where evenings unfold under open skies, and where the home’s original vision—of living seamlessly between indoors and out—comes fully to life. In the X-100, the backyard isn’t separate from the home. It is the home—just without walls.

©StevenPaulWhitsitt_Photography Frequent entertainers, this large New York family wanted special attention paid to making their new kitchen both stylish and especially welcoming for their guests, so they hired Julie Deuble of Artisan Kitchens & Baths at Appliance Associates. In addition to the logistical issues of working in a high-rise, some of Deuble’s biggest challenges came with incorporating appliances, such as properly venting the 48-inch pro-style range. To integrate several large appliances into the relatively small space while maintaining a seamless appearance, she included custom panels over the refrigerator, dishwasher drawers, and refrigerator drawers. She then housed a microwave and a TV in identical wall cabinets. Since the kitchen opens to the living room, Deuble needed to design it as a space to be shown, not hidden. To achieve this, custom details were included throughout, such as a table-style peninsula with decorative legs, three-stage crown molding, mullion doors, an entertainment center with wine and liquor storage, and a desk designed to match the cabinetry. Well-thoughtout details such as the push-to-open hardware on the peninsula’s full-height cabinet doors provided the finishing touches to this showcase-worthy space. Learn more about this designer at www.artisankitchensandbaths.com.