Jesse had inherited his townhome, and had lived there for several years. His career took him to another state, and the home was unoccupied for over a year. He decided that he would not return to Raleigh and that it was time to sell. The 1975 home still had the original kitchen and baths, and was in need of general repair and new flooring. The HVAC system, water heater, and washer and dryer had been replaced as they aged and became non-functional, and the exterior had been maintained by the Home Owner’s Association. Jesse wanted to update the home and have it sell as quickly as possible, so we got to work determining what the best use of the budget would be to accomplish this goal. We focused on updating the major interior design elements that would provide the most enjoyment, durability, and energy efficiency for the new homeowners. We started with completely gutting the Kitchen and reconfiguring it by moving the refrigerator into the laundry area, and stacked the washer and dryer to save space. We replaced all of the old vinyl cabinets with durable natural wood cabinetry, and added granite counter tops and a stainless steel sink. We also removed the ceiling-hung cabinets over the counter peninsula to open up the Kitchen and bring in more light and facilitate better flow and interaction, and added a floor-to-ceiling Pantry Closet to make up for the lost storage space. All of the Kitchen appliances were replaced with new energy efficient models. We next gutted the downstairs Powder Bath and replaced the vinyl vanity with matching cabinetry with the kitchen, and replaced the toilet (as well as all other toilets in the home) with an EPA WaterSense rated low-flow toilets. We removed the wallpaper and finished the walls smooth, replaced the lighting and mirror, and removed the carpet and installed a porcelain tile floor. The second floor 2nd Bedroom had been left open to the Great Room with a balcony and accordion door for privacy, but it left the room open to all of the noise from the Great Room and Kitchen. In order to make the room function as a private bedroom, we removed the balcony and installed a full wall in its place. Replacing all of the flooring was also at the top of the list, as was general repair on the walls and new paint throughout. We installed natural oak flooring in the Great Room and porcelain tile in the entry foyer. The seals on several of the exterior windows and the Master Bedroom sliding door had been compromised and needed to be replaced, as well as several interior doors and repair of all the louvered closet doors. The two upstairs Baths were functionally sound and the tile was in good shape. We replaced the toilets with EPA WaterSense rated low-flow toilets, and painted the vanities with a brighter color palette. The end result was bright, open, and comfortable updated home ready for its new occupants. Design Features Durable and handsome natural wood cabinetry. Granite Kitchen and Powder countertops. Stainless Kitchen appliances and white refrigerator. Stainless Kitchen sink and brushed nickel faucets. Brushed Nickel cabinetry and door hardware. Low-flow EPA WaterSense rated toilets. Light and bright natural hardwood flooring. Porcelain tile and luxury vinyl flooring. New carpet. Private 2nd Bedroom. Light and bright No-VOC paints and finishes. Energy Efficient and Green Features Energy efficient EPA Energy Star appliances. EPA WaterSense rated low-flow toilets. Energy efficient EPA Energy Star windows and door. Durable No-VOC cabinetry. Durable porcelain tile flooring. Low-flow faucets. Energy efficient CFL lighting throughout. No-VOC paints and finishes.

This home is nestled within the quiet Belmont Hill neighborhood originally constructed in the early 1960′s and in need of dramatic updating. We determined the house was sited correctly to the lot but not necessarily to the street. We focused on developing the living spaces allowing for large family gatherings. This family of six each appreciates their own space within this major addition. The challenge on this type of sloping lot is to provide adequate space without overbuilding the structure. The series of sloping ceilings in the upper story provides dynamic spaces suitable for bedrooms and expressing creative windows that provide animation through natural light. -JFF Design Architects

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

After purchasing their ideal ranch style home built in the ‘70s, our clients had requested some major updates and needs throughout the house. The couple loved to cook and desired a large kitchen with professional appliances and a space that connects with the family room for ultimate entertaining. The husband wanted a retreat of his own with office space and a separate bathroom. Both clients disliked the ‘70s aesthetic of their outdated master suite and agreed that too would need a complete update. The JRP Team focused on the strategic removal of several walls between the entrance, living room, and kitchen to establish a new balance by creating an open floor plan that embraces the natural flow of the home. The luxurious kitchen turned out to be the highlight of the home with beautifully curated materials and double islands. The expanded master bedroom creates space for a relocated and enlarged master bath with walk-in closet. Adding new four panel doors to the backyard of the master suite anchors the room, filling the space with natural light. A large addition was necessary to accommodate the "Man Cave" which provides an exclusive retreat complete with wet bar– perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The remodel took a dated, choppy and disconnected floor plan to a bespoke haven sparkling with natural light and gorgeous finishes. PROJECT DETAILS: • Style: Traditional • Countertops: Marble - Cremo Calacatta • Cabinets: Dewils, Lakewood (Frameless), Maple, Brittany Blue • Hardware/Plumbing Fixture Finish: Polished Chrome • Flooring: Porcelain – Galaxy, 12 x 24, Silver • Tile/Backsplash: Master Shower Walls: Porcelain – 24 x 48, Polished Master Shower Pan: Carrara Marble - Oriental White, Mini Pinwheel, Polished • Paint Color: Manor Blue • Other Details: Freestanding Tub – Victoria & Albert • Photographer: J.R. Maddox

We had the opportunity to come alongside this homeowner and demo an old cottage and rebuild this new year-round home for them. We worked hard to keep an authentic feel to the lake and fit the home nicely to the space. ​ We focused on a small footprint and, through specific design choices, achieved a layout the homeowner loved. A major goal was to have the kitchen, dining, and living all walk out at the lake level. We also managed to sneak a master suite into this level (check out that ceiling!).

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!

Before: The hall bath was outdated, with builder-grade finishes and limited storage. A major painpoint for multiple boys needing to share the bathroom, storage and functionality were the main focus.

AO_KendalSlate_RES_01_H Kendal Slate, Reveal Imaging, Glazed Porcelain 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 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!

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 kitchen renovation in Central Texas focused on creating a more custom, cohesive look through upgraded cabinetry, integrated lighting, and modern finishes. Bespoke Builders TX completed the project with a combination of black and warm wood-tone shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, a dark subway tile backsplash, and built-in stainless steel appliances. A major feature of the remodel is the layered LED lighting throughout the kitchen. Under-cabinet lighting brightens the work surfaces, while toe-kick lighting adds warm ambient illumination along the base cabinets. Additional accent lighting above the cabinetry helps emphasize the height of the room and gives the kitchen a more finished, high-end appearance. The finished space combines modern design with practical storage and everyday functionality. Bespoke Builders TX provides kitchen remodeling, custom cabinetry, appliance integration, lighting upgrades, and general contracting services throughout Central Texas. We work on both full kitchen renovations and targeted upgrades designed to improve the look, function, and value of an existing home.

This is a major renovation of a character home, in the Shaughnessy neighbourhood of Vancouver, BC. It is a landmark building with historical significance. We focused on appropriate design detailing to suit the era of the home while incorporating modern comforts and features.

The Setup For this primary bath, our clients—empty nesters who recently updated their entire first floor—wanted a fresh, sophisticated look that would harmonize with the rest of their home’s new design. The original space included a large corner tub and a layout that, while functional, felt outdated and oversized for their needs. The goal was to update the bathroom with a layout that suited them perfectly without moving walls or major fixtures. Design objectives: Remove the large, outdated corner tub and replace it with a freestanding tub Expand and modernize the shower while keeping privacy in mind Update cabinetry for more organized, efficient storage Improve lighting with stylish yet understated fixtures to brighten the room Create a cozy, timeless atmosphere in the large space, maintaining functionality The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: Striking Balance with Lighting – The clients wanted a statement fixture that could enhance the overall design without feeling overwhelming or taking away from the open, airy atmosphere. Maximizing Existing Footprint – The clients wanted to avoid altering the floor plan, meaning the layout remained mostly the same. The focus was on enhancing the room’s functionality within the existing footprint. Retaining Coziness – With the removal of the oversized tub deck, there was a need to keep the space from feeling too vast and empty, ensuring it felt cozy and inviting despite the open layout. Adding Hidden Storage – The master closet was not attached to the bathroom, and the clients wanted a discreet way to store a hamper within the bath area without cluttering the room. The Renewed Space Design solutions: Freestanding Tub on an Angle – Replacing the old corner tub with a sleek, freestanding tub allowed the space to feel open and modern. Positioned at an angle, the tub brings balance to the layout and provides an inviting focal point while still preserving walk-around space for added functionality. Expanded Shower with Privacy Enhancements – The original, smaller shower was transformed with a larger footprint, half-wall for privacy, and contemporary brushed nickel fixtures, adding both style and function. A herringbone marble accent tile halfway up the shower walls adds a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the space. Custom Vanity with Built-in Hamper – A small pull-out hamper was added to the corner of the vanity, providing discreet storage and eliminating the need for a standalone basket. The cabinetry was reconfigured to be more functional and organized for the couple’s daily routines. Lighting that Complements the Room – The lighting selection was central to the redesign, with the client gravitating toward a bubble chandelier she had admired. After exploring several options, they chose a smaller size to provide a soft accent without dominating the space, tying in with the bathroom’s overall light and airy feel. The newly remodeled primary bath exudes a classic, calm atmosphere with a carefully chosen mix of textures and materials. The large porcelain floor tiles mimic the look of wood, lending a warm, traditional touch. Lightly textured cream tiles and brushed nickel fixtures create a soft and cohesive look, while the subtle herringbone marble accent in the shower adds just the right amount of elegance. Round mirrors above the vanities complement the curves of the freestanding tub, softening the room’s overall look and adding a touch of femininity. The result is a bright, timeless space tailored perfectly for the homeowners’ lifestyle.

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

One year after completing the main level renovation, in 2015, my client experienced a major flood in her basement. So a year sooner than we had planned, we were working with the disaster management team on a complete renovation of the basement. Our focus was a multifunctional family room with ample space and comfort for a hockey loving family with growing teenagers. We also reworked a cramped bathroom with a stand up shower stall to allow for a full tub and shower surround while making the small space more efficient. This renovation was also completed with custom window treatments and throw cushions, artwork framing and placement.

The shiplap hood and apron front sink speak to the Modern Farmhouse design aesthetic. We used mercury and seeded glass in the lighting fixtures to add a touch of vintage. Although we all love a black and white pallet, these homeowners wanted a softer, warmer, and more colorful approach to their dream of Modern Farmhouse. With that in mind, we focused in on using Navy Blue and soft, light grey tones, with touches of black and gold. These tones are mixed and matched throughout the home, making each room unique and special, while still maintaining continuity and cohesion.

DT_CastleDeVerre_RES_01_CU01 Castle De Verre Photo features Chalice Gold 13 x 13 field tile with Universal Decorative accent strip on the stairs. 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.

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.

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.