CALIFORNIA: Neoclassicism in the kitchen; a blend of contemporary and charm; a luxury kitchen flaunting an ambience rich with history and to be admired, able to bring to life refined designs, the styles of your dreams, which go one step further than current trends, whilst providing you with that pleasant sense of exclusivity. Elegance, resulting from the merger of contemporary design and hints of the past; the framed door is given a modern edge thanks to the new shapes and novel materials governing designs, such as the colored varnish that stains without masking the grain of the ash wood, making it even more precious and dynamic.

Barbara Brown Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary wooden l-shaped staircase remodel in Atlanta with painted risers

Refresh Your Space with the Best Kitchen Cabinet Painting in Chicago! Looking for a Kitchen Cabinet Painting Transformation in Wicker Park? Our premier Chicago painting company just completed this stunning cabinet refinishing project, proving that you don't need a full remodel to achieve a high-end, designer look. As local Chicago painters specializing in professional cabinet painting, we understand the unique aesthetic of Windy City homes—from historic bungalows to modern West Loop condos. Our team focuses on high-durability finishes and meticulous cabinet spraying techniques that deliver a smooth, factory-like appearance. From thorough degreasing and sanding to the final topcoat, every step is handled with the expert care your home deserves. These Wicker Park homeowners are absolutely thrilled with their kitchen's modern new vibe! Kitchen Cabinet Painting: Frequently Asked Questions How long does the professional kitchen cabinet painting process typically take from start to finish? Most residential projects take between five to seven business days. This timeframe includes the removal of doors for off-site spraying, meticulous on-site masking of your kitchen "shell," and the necessary curing time between coats to ensure a rock-hard, durable finish. What type of paint or finish do you use to ensure the cabinets don't chip or peel over time? We utilize industrial-grade Italian coatings or high-end waterborne alkyd enamels specifically formulated for cabinetry. These products are much harder than standard wall paint, providing superior resistance to moisture, kitchen grease, and the daily wear and tear of a busy Chicago household. Do I need to empty all of my kitchen cabinets and drawers before the painters arrive? While you don't necessarily need to empty the backs of the shelves, we require all items to be moved at least six inches back from the front edges. However, for the best dust-free results, we highly recommend emptying them completely to protect your cookware. Can you paint cabinets that are made of laminate, thermofoil, or or dark-stained oak? Yes, we can! The secret lies in the bonding primer. We use specialized high-adhesion primers that "bite" into slick surfaces like laminate or seal the grain of deep oak, ensuring the color stays vibrant and the surface remains perfectly smooth without peeling. How should I clean and maintain my newly painted cabinets to keep them looking fresh for years? To maintain the finish, simply wipe them down with a soft microfiber cloth and a gentle mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, abrasive scrubbing pads, or wax-based polishes, as these can break down the protective topcoat over time.

Maurice chairs from the Toby Collection covered with a resilient "Marrakesh" fabric by Great Plains from Holly Hunt pull out the tow tables that expand the seat 16 guests comfortably in the dining area, Lithographs by Robert Mangold and African masks add an artistic finish

Metal Porch Stairs Painting in Lakeview, Chicago | Windy City Painters Lakeview is one of Chicago's most architecturally diverse neighborhoods — vintage courtyard buildings, rooftop-deck condos, newly converted three-flats, and classic brick two-flats all line the same block. What they share is this: exposed metal. Back porch stairs, handrails, balconies, and exterior landings define the rear streetscape of nearly every building in the neighborhood. And in Chicago, exposed metal without proper protective coatings doesn't last. Windy City Painters recently completed a full metal porch stairs painting project in Lakeview that illustrates exactly what professional metal refinishing looks like — and why preparation is everything. The Problem: Years of Chicago Weather Had Done Their Damage The client's back porch stairs were structurally sound — the diamond-plate steel treads were solid underfoot and the handrails were stable. However, the original paint system had long since failed. Surface rust had spread across the treads and risers. The old coating was peeling at every seam, edge, and weld point. Meanwhile, the black handrails were chalky and beginning to show rust at the bases. Notably, this is a pattern Windy City Painters sees constantly in Lakeview. The neighborhood's diverse housing stock — ranging from pre-war courtyard buildings to 1990s condo conversions — often features original metal porch work that has never received a proper professional refinish. Homeowners and property managers patch-paint over rust for years, which ultimately accelerates the problem rather than solving it. The solution isn't more paint. It's a complete system: mechanical rust removal, chemical treatment, primer, and a durable topcoat engineered for exterior metal. The Windy City Painters Process for Metal Porch Stairs Painting Windy City Painters approaches every metal porch stairs painting project with the same disciplined sequence. Consequently, our finishes outlast the competition by years. Step 1 — Mechanical Preparation Our crew wire-brushes all loose rust, flaking paint, and surface contamination from every tread, riser, stringer, and handrail section. For heavier rust accumulation, we use grinding discs to cut down to clean, bare metal. This step is non-negotiable. Additionally, we pay particular attention to weld seams, bolt plates, and edge returns — the spots where moisture consistently hides and rust reliably starts. Step 2 — Chemical Rust Treatment After mechanical prep, we apply a rust-converting primer to any remaining rust residue. This chemically neutralizes active rust and converts it into a stable, paintable surface. Moreover, the converter bonds to the metal and creates an additional barrier against future oxidation. Step 3 — Rust-Inhibiting Primer Windy City Painters then applies a full coat of oil-based, rust-inhibiting primer to all prepared metal surfaces. This primer penetrates bare metal and creates the critical bond layer that everything else depends on. Skipping this step — or substituting a latex primer — is the single biggest reason DIY metal paint jobs fail within one season. Step 4 — Two Topcoats of Industrial Enamel We apply two full coats of oil-based industrial enamel in the client's chosen color. For this Lakeview project, the stairs received a deep red finish and the handrails received gloss black — a classic combination that reads beautifully against the surrounding brick. Each coat is allowed to cure fully before the next is applied. Furthermore, we back-roll every surface to eliminate lap marks and ensure consistent film build. Step 5 — Final Inspection and Cleanup Windy City Painters inspects every inch of the completed work before calling a project done. We remove all masking, clean up the work area completely, and walk the client through the finished result. In addition, we advise on a maintenance schedule to maximize the life of the coating system. Why Metal Porch Stairs Painting Matters for Lakeview Properties Metal porch stairs are among the most visible exterior features of Chicago residential buildings. Therefore, their condition directly affects curb appeal, property value, and — most importantly — structural safety. Rust that penetrates deeply enough will compromise the structural integrity of stairs and railings. Meanwhile, peeling paint signals to buyers, renters, and neighbors that a property is deferred. In contrast, freshly refinished metal porch stairs signal exactly the opposite. They say the property is maintained, the owner takes pride in the building, and the structure is safe. For Lakeview landlords and homeowners alike, metal porch stair refinishing delivers an exceptional return on investment. Professional Advice for Lakeview Homeowners Before starting a metal porch stairs painting project, Windy City Painters recommends the following: Don't paint over rust. Any rust left beneath a topcoat will continue to spread and will lift the new paint within months. Mechanical removal is essential. Choose oil-based products for exterior metal. Latex paints don't adhere to metal as reliably and lack the film hardness needed to withstand foot traffic and freeze-thaw cycles. Time your project right. Ideal conditions for metal painting are 50°F–90°F with low humidity. Chicago's spring and early fall are perfect windows. Don't skip the primer. A properly applied rust-inhibiting primer is what separates a seven-year finish from a one-year failure. Budget for full prep. Preparation typically represents 60–70% of the labor on a metal refinishing project. That's where the money is well spent. Windy City Painters: Lakeview's Trusted Metal Refinishing Contractor Windy City Painters has refined the process of exterior metal painting and refinishing across Chicago's North Side and Near West Side. We work in Lakeview regularly — on courtyard buildings, two-flats, coach houses, and commercial properties — and we understand the unique demands that Chicago's climate places on exterior metal. As a result, our coating systems are selected and applied for maximum longevity in this specific environment. See more of our work and request a free estimate at www.windypainters.com. Ready to transform your Lakeview home? Contact Windy City Painters for a free estimate — visit www.windypainters.com today. Proudly serving Wicker Park, West Town, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, Lakeview, Ukrainian Village, River North, and all of Chicago.

The dining area walls were paneled with full sheets of rift cut oak veneer to match the kitchen with a cherry inlay between the panels.
Example of a mid-sized trendy concrete floor kitchen/dining room combo design in Other with beige walls

The entryway of this Oakland Hills home stands out with bold masks painted on palm fronds hanging above a tansu cabinet.
Inspiration for a contemporary entryway remodel in San Francisco

Within Dubai's exclusive villa enclaves, a breathtaking grand entrance foyer is setting new standards for opulent first impressions. This architectural masterpiece, recently completed by a leading fitout company Dubai homeowners trust for exceptional craftsmanship, combines dramatic water elements with artistic lighting to create an unforgettable welcome experience. The centerpiece of this extraordinary space is a monumental customized aquarium that spans two stories, creating a living wall of shimmering azure brilliance. Unlike conventional aquariums, this installation features a carefully curated ecosystem of exotic marine life swimming among custom-designed coral formations that echo the villa's architectural motifs. "Integrating such a substantial aquatic feature required precision engineering and flawless execution," explains the project director. "The structural requirements alone presented significant challenges, not to mention the advanced filtration systems concealed within the architectural elements." Complementing the aquarium are sophisticated water features designed to create a multisensory arrival experience. Subtle water channels embedded in the marble flooring guide visitors along the entrance path, while a sculptural water wall creates gentle acoustic ambiance that masks external noise. The landscape company Dubai residents recognize for innovative water integration collaborated closely with interior specialists to ensure seamless transitions between outdoor and indoor water elements. This partnership enabled the creation of a reflecting pool that begins in the exterior arrival court and continues into the foyer, visually connecting the spaces while maintaining environmental separation. Illuminating this aquatic wonderland is a constellation of customized chandeliers that cascade from the vaulted ceiling. Each fixture represents a bespoke artistic commission, featuring hand-blown glass elements and programmable LED technology that can transform the atmosphere from vibrant daytime brilliance to subtle evening ambiance.

We commission the exterior work for a client in Wimbledon SW20. From masking and preparation to full sanding, antioxidant paint. We restored the metal railing to the high gloss finish by hand painting. 2 black gloss coat was applied. . https://midecor.co.uk/blog/

An octagonal room for sitting, reading, and enjoying. French doors all around makes you feel like you are sitting in the outdoors.
Inspiration for an eclectic home design remodel in Cleveland

This warehouse loft was rich in character, but it lacked one thing: defined rooms. Our client challenged us to incorporate two new bedrooms, and since the defining wall was lined with windows, we were able to introduce partitions as the driving solution. We also made a point to expose the layered history and raw texture of the original warehouse building that was masked behind the drywall before our renovation. Now, there are two elevated bedrooms with expansive glass walls (alongside integrated curtains), allowing light to continue to fill the depth of the apartment with the option for privacy.

This client sought to update their recently purchased home in Alexandria. A gourmet kitchen that complemented the size of the home and property was a top priority. They wanted more light-filled and connected living spaces for their growing family. Updating the finishes throughout the home was also a necessity. Design challenges included an existing utility space that occupied a large portion of the kitchen footprint, making the kitchen cramped and narrow. In addition, the foyer was dark, confined and uninviting as a result of its organization and enclosed nature of the main stair. To overcome the challenges, we relocated the utilities, creating a more usable footprint for the kitchen. The aging furnace was replaced with a high efficiency furnace located in a newly insulated and conditioned crawl space. A new hot water heater was placed in the finished attic, and the electrical panel was also relocated. Then, we designed a portion of the kitchen to mask the need for dropped structural headers: the refrigerator, freezer and pantry were placed under the area that necessitated a drop bulkhead, creating a sleek built-in area for the appliances. Once the utilities were moved, the kitchen could be opened up to a large family room and designed with a much-improved layout. Two new four-panel exterior doors replaced small doors at the family room to connect the main living space with the beautiful yard. In addition, white bead board was added to the family room ceiling, creating more visual continuity with the adjacent white kitchen. To transform the foyer into a grand and welcoming entry, a small amount of space was taken from a large second floor bedroom, and the entire second floor structure was supported with a series of flush beams to allow the stair to be opened and expose the rail. New glass doors to the den, relocated at an angle from the main stair provide the foyer with more natural light and a wider, more inviting path to the kitchen. In the master suite, the bedroom and bathroom entry doors were relocated to improve the room’s layout and offer more bathroom privacy and space for a walk-in closet. A room forgotten by the previous owner was turned into a family mudroom with built-ins and wainscoting to keep the family organized in style. Photography by Greg Hadley

Local Exterior Painting - Spray Painting the House - Services Long Island NY Spray Painting the exterior of your home can make a big impact on its value. It can prolong the life of the exterior and protect your home from weather damage as well as increase curb appeal. Before we actually spray, we “mask off” the house with painters plastic and paper, sealing everything up really tight. Spray paint the exterior of your house with us and get professional result, we use pro airless paint sprayers

Example of a mid-sized gender-neutral carpeted and beige floor kids' room design in Chicago with yellow walls

The client’s request was quite common - a typical 2800 sf builder home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living space, and den. However, their desire was for this to be “anything but common.” The result is an innovative update on the production home for the modern era, and serves as a direct counterpoint to the neighborhood and its more conventional suburban housing stock, which focus views to the backyard and seeks to nullify the unique qualities and challenges of topography and the natural environment. The Terraced House cautiously steps down the site’s steep topography, resulting in a more nuanced approach to site development than cutting and filling that is so common in the builder homes of the area. The compact house opens up in very focused views that capture the natural wooded setting, while masking the sounds and views of the directly adjacent roadway. The main living spaces face this major roadway, effectively flipping the typical orientation of a suburban home, and the main entrance pulls visitors up to the second floor and halfway through the site, providing a sense of procession and privacy absent in the typical suburban home. Clad in a custom rain screen that reflects the wood of the surrounding landscape - while providing a glimpse into the interior tones that are used. The stepping “wood boxes” rest on a series of concrete walls that organize the site, retain the earth, and - in conjunction with the wood veneer panels - provide a subtle organic texture to the composition. The interior spaces wrap around an interior knuckle that houses public zones and vertical circulation - allowing more private spaces to exist at the edges of the building. The windows get larger and more frequent as they ascend the building, culminating in the upstairs bedrooms that occupy the site like a tree house - giving views in all directions. The Terraced House imports urban qualities to the suburban neighborhood and seeks to elevate the typical approach to production home construction, while being more in tune with modern family living patterns. Overview: Elm Grove Size: 2,800 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Completion Date: September 2014 Services: Architecture, Landscape Architecture Interior Consultants: Amy Carman Design

Wooden Bridge next to spa and water feature creates separate outdoor zones.
Example of a minimalist pool design in Orange County

Inspiration for a modern open concept condo with light wood floor, staged in a Boho chic style with tropical plants, dark green sofa, boho accent cushions, boho rug, rattan accent table, African masks

Hanging a large TV in a room with a view often comes with compromises. Domotics's obsession with a wireless clean look, combined with our many years of experience, nets compromise-less end results.

Detached Screened Pavilion with terraced garden setting and cascading water features. Teahouse Builder: David Wilkes Builders Landscape Contractor: Fred Strauss Photos: Gregory Thomas