Search results for "Major focus" in Home Design Ideas

We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

Major rear drainage problems prompted our client to call us. They wanted a whole new back yard with space for an outdoor kitchen, spa and a sitting area with a large gas fire pit area. Our main focus, however, was ensuring to get the drainage courses fixed and working properly. From there we could design & build to satisfy their wishes!
Find the right local pro for your project

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We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home.
The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living.
The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home.
The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play.
The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Energy Efficient features include:
• The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade
• 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques
• Foil covered roof sheathing
• Extensive use of blown in cellulous
• All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass
• Tank-less water heaters
• Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV.
Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency.
These items include:
• 2x6 walls with staggered studs
• Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting
• Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows
• ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls.
The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

This TVL project focused primarily on a gut of this home's only bathroom and included a facelift in the kitchen as well. This lovely Denver home features a very tiny bathroom with mostly original features. Our client requested a makeover to the bathroom that would improve function & health as well as push the bright white minimalism she loves so much throughout her home. Respecting both budget and timeline, we worked to create a highly functional space with nods toward European bathroom design. We increased space between the toilet and vanity while also increasing storage by integrating a vanity with drawers rather than a pedestal sink. We utilized high gloss white tile on the floors to help expand light and replaced all major plumbing fixtures for a fresh look. The bathroom now features a much deeper alcove tub, elongated white subway tiles on the walls, shiny chrome faucet fixtures, and a new vanity light. In the kitchen, new white shaker cabinets were installed and paired with a simple white subway tile backsplash. White quartz countertops and new hardwood floors were also added. We love the clean, bright, simple nature of every space in this house and are so happy our wonderful client can enjoy these for years to come!

This completed home renovation project in Philadelphia beautifully transformed an older property into a modern, functional, and stylish living space. With a focus on both design and practicality, the renovation skillfully merges contemporary upgrades with the timeless character of the city’s architectural heritage.
The kitchen remodel features custom cabinetry, sleek countertops, and state-of-the-art appliances, offering a seamless blend of form and function. In the bathrooms, luxurious fixtures, modern vanities, and detailed tile work create spa-like retreats that elevate everyday living.
Throughout the home, high-quality flooring—from rich hardwoods to elegant tile—adds sophistication and durability. The addition of recessed and pendant lighting highlights key architectural elements and brings warmth to every room.
Behind the walls, all major systems were updated, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, ensuring the home is not only beautiful but also comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient.
You can read more about our whole home renovation process on our website - https://santechconstruction.com/whole-house-remodeling/

The renovations at Horseshoe Hill transformed a disjointed property into an alluring farmhouse with strong connections to the landscape and a fresh aesthetic to complement the owner’s South African furnishings. A new main gable establishes a strong central focus for the massing, and an entry wing addition welcomes visitors with a charming porch and inviting foyer. New south-facing covered porches create comfortable outdoor living areas, connect major rooms to the outdoors, and provide shade and filtered light for interior spaces. The home’s updated floor plan distills an existing warren of disconnected, small chambers into spacious, open rooms that infuse the house with a modern flow and engage the new pool.

We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

The interiors utilize a graphic and geometric wall paper to unify the Foyer and pine paneling in the Library that lends a comfortable, old-world feeling. We used a beautiful custom finish on the paneling with linen damask upholstered panels. An Oushak rug is used as a feature point in the room. The Dinning Room has a unique v-groove wood “pyramid” ceiling treatment that adds height and becomes the room’s major feature. The contemporary graphic, custom-made rug anchors the large 12 person dinning table. The chandler is kept open and simple to accent the furnishings. The Living Room is two stories high with large glass windows, which allow for a light and airy feeling, complemented by soft, casual furnishings. A magnificent fireplace adds a point of focus. The Living Room opens to a comfortable screen porch shared with the master suite and overlooks the pool and marsh pond beyond.

This 1,400 sq. ft. studio, built in 2018 for Grammy Award–winning drummer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Adam Box, was one of the earliest full-scale NILES design–build projects. After years of session and touring work, Adam had a clear vision for his own creative home—a space that combined comfort, vibe, and technical precision. Our team partnered closely with him through every phase of the design and build process to bring that vision to life.
The studio features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, two amp isolation booths, and a large dedicated ISO booth engineered specifically for dry drum capture. Each room is fully wired for a complete live-tracking environment, enabling an entire band to plug in and record seamlessly. The Live Room is sonically open and collaborative, while the Control Room is fine-tuned for long stretches of creative focus and accurate monitoring.
Aesthetic direction played a major role in this project. Natural stonework, warm wood details, and a comfortable, lived-in feel create a distinctive character throughout the space. Adam added many of his own finishing touches, giving the studio an unmistakable personal identity that reflects his style and musical approach.
The result is a studio that delivers both atmosphere and performance—an inspiring hub for writing, tracking, mixing, and producing at the highest level.

Shadow Gray, Ambiance, Hard Maple, Pacific / Exclusive
We are a customer-driven company, focused on increasing our sales and market share. We differ from our competition by our products, presentation, and service while continuing to support our reputation for value and selection. Quickly put…to make Century Tile “simply the best."
Century Tile’s eleven locations and commitment to Chicago for over 65 years; First Quality Flooring, Value Pricing, Best In-stock Selection and Knowledgeable Staff.
We also have the Midwest’s largest in-stock selection of flooring.
We carry over 10,000 styles and colors of floor coverings which we import direct; as well as carry many of the major flooring brands domestically offered.
Century Tile’s size and buying power allows us to offer you the best selection of products at the lowest price and best value in Chicago that you can take home today.
Century Tile offers you Chicago’s most knowledgeable people who have an average of 12 years flooring experience. Our sales staff will assist you with any flooring project that you might have.

The Canton Farmhouse Project is an exciting new build project that has me focused on the Farmhouse Style Home with a modern twist! This decidedly American style is experiencing a major resurgence, appealing to those who prefer the classic, comforting style of a simpler time. It's a blend of architectural details, most easily recognized by its covered porches, simple forms, and natural finishes.
3600 SF new build single family home. Highlight: Farmhouse kitchen void of upper cabinets but features a large walk-in pantry. The connected dining room features pocket doors to separate the spaces as desired. A central prep island features gray cabinets while the waterfall peninsula is set for gather and eating.
Photo Credit: Jessica Delaney Photography

After serving as a rental for some time, this home was ready to be reclaimed by its owner and her son.
Gutting “back to the studs” was an understatement for this one. This transformation involved replanning everything; including the roof, the HVAC system, the entire plumbing system, and relocating the side entrance and staircase to the back of the house. Only the subfloors, the exterior framing structure, and the brick remains from this original 1940’s-built bungalow.
When we’re renovating an old structure, we’re bound to find some surprises. This renovation did not disappoint! From basement to roof, we found more than a few, shall we say, potentially catastrophic surprises along the way.
Let’s start with the basement. The homeowner wanted to update the basement and make it a usable living space for her adult son as well as a spa with a sauna for her. This required bringing the 6 foot ceiling height up to code at 7 feet. To do this, we had to re-think the HVAC system that was in the basement ceiling. When we opened up the basement ceiling to remove the HVAC supply and return trunks, we discovered asbestos! The asbestos had to be removed before we could dismantle and remove the HVAC system.
For the main floor, when we were replanning the existing 2-bedroom layout to create two master bedrooms each with their own ensuites, we looked at the possibility of removing the main load-bearing wall. But our investigations led to the discovery that the load bearing wall was not lined up with the roof or the basement load points, so the load of the house was not continuous throughout. This was a disaster waiting to happen. And as we found out, this lack of alignment was causing major issues with the roof when we went to replace the shingles. We discovered portions of the roof truss in very poor condition, literally moments away from giving out. These were replaced and other truss components were fortified before we went on to re-shingle the roof and replace all the soffits and eavestroughs.
Once the structural and space planning elements were sorted out, we could turn our focus to helping this homeowner select the finishes she and her son wanted for their new spaces. She wanted white all the way, and he wanted bold colours. You will see these color choices reflected in their private bathrooms as well as in the upper kitchen and living area that she will mostly use, and the basement entertainment area that he will mostly use.
To round out the personalization of this made-new-again home, we converted the basement into an entertainment center with a bar for her son, and a sauna and third full bathroom with a jacuzzi tub for a spa-like feel for her.
Without having to build from scratch, this homeowner got the custom home of her dreams.
While you “can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, the sky’s the limit on how you can transform an old home into the home of your dreams. When your “old dog” needs some new tricks, we are the Renovator You Can Count On.

This recent renovation project began with a desire to open up the kitchen to the family room. Today everyone seems to want the big island to live and entertain around, right?
I always recommend taking your time during the planning phase—6 weeks at least! Kitchens and bathrooms are highly functional areas, so you want to give yourself time to think thoughts like, “where am I going to put all my plastic cups?” I ask my clients lots of questions during this phase to help them design a kitchen that truly has a place for everything. Appliances and plumbing are part of this phase as well.
Once the cabinet design was finalized, the demo began! Because that troublesome wall was load bearing, so the GC, Miland Home Construction, had to install a beam to support the second floor. But once that was done, boy we had a lot of space to work with!
Picking your countertops is a little like picking an ice cream flavor: you really want to see all your options! Not only is function important here, but your counter material is really a major element of the kitchen, so pick one you love! This client fell in love with Taj Mahal Quartzite.
The backsplash was the next layer of fun. Now the mood of the kitchen becomes clear. Will it be elegant? Homey? Rustic? Picking the lighting then becomes like the fine tuner on a microscope, adjusting the view to its perfect clarity.
With construction underway, and the mood of the new space established, soft furnishings become the focus. Layering in luxurious, yet durable fabrics are the name of the game for most families. We all want beautiful spaces that can stand up to spouses, kids, and pets! It’s always a lot fun to select a deep and comfy sofa and chairs!
The finishing touches are what really give the project that designer look—so be sure to save room in the budget for art, window treatments, and accessories. In this home I wallpapered the wall behind the tv with a subtle grasscloth, selected a large abstract to center the room, and echoed its colors throughout the accessories. The result is eye-pleasing indeed: soft, textured, interesting and peaceful. This busy family was thrilled with the results.

Shapiro & Company was pleased to be asked to design the 2019 Vesta Home for Johnny Williams. The Vesta Home is the most popular show home in the Memphis area and attracted more than 40,000 visitors. The home was designed in a similar fashion to a custom home where we design to accommodate the family that might live here. As with many properties that are 1/3 of an acre, homes are in fairly close proximity and therefore this house was designed to focus the majority of the views into a private courtyard with a pool as its accent. The home’s style was derived from English Cottage traditions that were transformed for modern taste.
Interior Designers:
Garrick Ealy - Conrad Designs
Kim Williams - KSW Interiors
Landscaper:
Bud Gurley - Gurley’s Azalea Garden
Photographer:
Carroll Hoselton - Memphis Media Company

This 1,400 sq. ft. studio, built in 2018 for Grammy Award–winning drummer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Adam Box, was one of the earliest full-scale NILES design–build projects. After years of session and touring work, Adam had a clear vision for his own creative home—a space that combined comfort, vibe, and technical precision. Our team partnered closely with him through every phase of the design and build process to bring that vision to life.
The studio features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, two amp isolation booths, and a large dedicated ISO booth engineered specifically for dry drum capture. Each room is fully wired for a complete live-tracking environment, enabling an entire band to plug in and record seamlessly. The Live Room is sonically open and collaborative, while the Control Room is fine-tuned for long stretches of creative focus and accurate monitoring.
Aesthetic direction played a major role in this project. Natural stonework, warm wood details, and a comfortable, lived-in feel create a distinctive character throughout the space. Adam added many of his own finishing touches, giving the studio an unmistakable personal identity that reflects his style and musical approach.
The result is a studio that delivers both atmosphere and performance—an inspiring hub for writing, tracking, mixing, and producing at the highest level.

This completed home renovation project in Philadelphia beautifully transformed an older property into a modern, functional, and stylish living space. With a focus on both design and practicality, the renovation skillfully merges contemporary upgrades with the timeless character of the city’s architectural heritage.
The kitchen remodel features custom cabinetry, sleek countertops, and state-of-the-art appliances, offering a seamless blend of form and function. In the bathrooms, luxurious fixtures, modern vanities, and detailed tile work create spa-like retreats that elevate everyday living.
Throughout the home, high-quality flooring—from rich hardwoods to elegant tile—adds sophistication and durability. The addition of recessed and pendant lighting highlights key architectural elements and brings warmth to every room.
Behind the walls, all major systems were updated, including plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, ensuring the home is not only beautiful but also comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient.
You can read more about our whole home renovation process on our website - https://santechconstruction.com/whole-house-remodeling/
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