Search results for "Major focus" in Home Design Ideas

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 client came to Opticos to consult on
a simple shutter addition and decided what they wanted was a major renovation of their a 3,200-square foot, four-bedroom home in Seaside, FL. The project’s primary focus was to built upon the good proportions of the original design, but also to refine the details and expand the space outdoors.

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.
Find the right local pro for your project

Interior Designer: MOTIV Interiors LLC
Photographer: Sam Angel Photography
Design Challenge: This 8 year-old boy and girl were outgrowing their existing setup and needed to update their rooms with a plan that would carry them forward into middle school and beyond. In addition to gaining storage and study areas, could these twins show off their big personalities? Absolutely, we said! MOTIV Interiors tackled the rooms of these youngsters living in Nashville's 12th South Neighborhood and created an environment where the dynamic duo can learn, create, and grow together for years to come.
Design Solution:
In his room, we wanted to continue the feature wall fun, but with a different approach. Since our young explorer loves outer space, being a boy scout, and building with legos, we created a dynamic geometric wall that serves as the backdrop for our young hero’s control center. We started with a neutral mushroom color for the majority of the walls in the room, while our feature wall incorporated a deep indigo and sky blue that are as classic as your favorite pair of jeans. We focused on indoor air quality and used Sherwin Williams’ Duration paint in a satin sheen, which is a scrubbable/no-VOC coating.
We wanted to create a great reading corner, so we placed a comfortable denim lounge chair next to the window and made sure to feature a self-portrait created by our young client. For night time reading, we included a super-stellar floor lamp with white globes and a sleek satin nickel finish. Metal details are found throughout the space (such as the lounge chair base and nautical desk clock), and lend a utilitarian feel to the room. In order to balance the metal and keep the room from feeling too cold, we also snuck in woven baskets that work double-duty as decorative pieces and functional storage bins.
The large north-facing window got the royal treatment and was dressed with a relaxed roman shade in a shiitake linen blend. We added a fabulous fabric trim from F. Schumacher and echoed the look by using the same fabric for the bolster on the bed. Royal blue bedding brings a bit of color into the space, and is complimented by the rich chocolate wood tones seen in the furniture throughout. Additional storage was a must, so we brought in a glossy blue storage unit that can accommodate legos, encyclopedias, pinewood derby cars, and more!
Comfort and creativity converge in this space, and we were excited to get a big smile when we turned it over to its new commander.

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.

Embrace a sleek and contemporary lifestyle. This modern haven boasts an open floor plan, perfect for entertaining or comfortable family living. The chef's kitchen features stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry, creating a space that inspires culinary creations. Luxurious touches continue in the master bathroom with its floor-to-ceiling tiled shower.
Convenience is key with this central Tampa location. Enjoy easy access to shops, restaurants, entertainment, and major highways for effortless commuting. You'll also love being close to the airport, ideal for frequent flyers or those who cherish easy travel access. Live a low-maintenance lifestyle with included internet, groundskeeping, and trash services, giving you more time to focus on what matters most.
This modern oasis is perfect for professionals, couples, or small families who crave a vibrant Tampa Bay experience. Don't miss your chance to live in style!

Interior Designer: MOTIV Interiors LLC
Photographer: Sam Angel Photography
Design Challenge: This 8 year-old boy and girl were outgrowing their existing setup and needed to update their rooms with a plan that would carry them forward into middle school and beyond. In addition to gaining storage and study areas, could these twins show off their big personalities? Absolutely, we said! MOTIV Interiors tackled the rooms of these youngsters living in Nashville's 12th South Neighborhood and created an environment where the dynamic duo can learn, create, and grow together for years to come.
Design Solution:
In his room, we wanted to continue the feature wall fun, but with a different approach. Since our young explorer loves outer space, being a boy scout, and building with legos, we created a dynamic geometric wall that serves as the backdrop for our young hero’s control center. We started with a neutral mushroom color for the majority of the walls in the room, while our feature wall incorporated a deep indigo and sky blue that are as classic as your favorite pair of jeans. We focused on indoor air quality and used Sherwin Williams’ Duration paint in a satin sheen, which is a scrubbable/no-VOC coating.
We wanted to create a great reading corner, so we placed a comfortable denim lounge chair next to the window and made sure to feature a self-portrait created by our young client. For night time reading, we included a super-stellar floor lamp with white globes and a sleek satin nickel finish. Metal details are found throughout the space (such as the lounge chair base and nautical desk clock), and lend a utilitarian feel to the room. In order to balance the metal and keep the room from feeling too cold, we also snuck in woven baskets that work double-duty as decorative pieces and functional storage bins.
The large north-facing window got the royal treatment and was dressed with a relaxed roman shade in a shiitake linen blend. We added a fabulous fabric trim from F. Schumacher and echoed the look by using the same fabric for the bolster on the bed. Royal blue bedding brings a bit of color into the space, and is complimented by the rich chocolate wood tones seen in the furniture throughout. Additional storage was a must, so we brought in a glossy blue storage unit that can accommodate legos, encyclopedias, pinewood derby cars, and more!
Comfort and creativity converge in this space, and we were excited to get a big smile when we turned it over to its new commander.

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

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!

QS_DecorWood_ClaretCherry_RM01
Decorwood, Claret Cherry, LPE11004, HiDef
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 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.

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.

As the “nest” began to empty and her available time to maintain the home lessened, Ursula realized that it was time to sell.
The 1996 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, but the kitchen appliances, exterior, windows, and roof needed replacing. Jeff wanted to repair and update the home with quality materials and workmanship so that it would provide the most value to the new owners and 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 as well as meticulously replaced worn exterior components with tasteful color palette selections.
We repaired and refinished all of the kitchen cabinets and added granite counter tops and a stainless steel sink. All of the Kitchen appliances were replaced with new energy efficient stainless models.
All bathroom cabinetry was repaired and refinished, all of the faucets and shower trims were replaced, and all of the toilets with EPA WaterSense rated low-flow toilets. The master bathroom shower glass was replaced with updated semi-frameless glass.
All of the hardwood flooring was refinished as well as general repair on the walls and new paint throughout.
The end result was bright, open, and comfortable updated home ready for its new occupants.
Design Features
Durable and nicely renovated cabinetry.
Granite Kitchen counter tops.
Stainless Kitchen appliances.
Stainless Kitchen sink and brushed nickel faucets.
Brushed Nickel cabinetry and door hardware.
Low-flow EPA WaterSense rated toilets.
Refinished natural oak hardwood flooring.
New carpet.
New architectural roof shingles.
Replaced window sashes.
Complete exterior repair and painting.
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.
Durable No-VOC cabinetry.
Low-flow faucets.
Energy efficient LED lighting throughout.
No-VOC paints and finishes.

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.

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 bathroom remodel blends modern design with practical upgrades, resulting in a clean and cohesive space. The renovation includes the installation of a new white shaker-style vanity with a white quartz countertop and matte black plumbing fixtures, complemented by sleek chrome hardware for a balanced look. Above the vanity, a pair of elegant matte black wall-mounted light sconces provide focused illumination and add a touch of sophistication.
A striking black hexagon tile floor adds bold contrast and a contemporary edge to the soft gray painted walls. A major layout update involved removing a full wall and replacing it with a stylish pony wall beside the tub, creating a more open and airy feel. The tub is surrounded by classic white subway tile that extends to the ceiling, featuring a recessed shampoo niche with a mosaic tile backing for both functionality and visual interest.
Additional upgrades include a new toilet, the removal of a ceiling soffit to raise the ceiling height, updated recessed lighting, a new modern exhaust fan, and the relocation of the air conditioning duct outlet for improved airflow and aesthetics. Altogether, this bathroom remodel delivers a fresh, bright, and sophisticated space with high-end touches and improved functionality.

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 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.

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.
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