Mark Ehlen Creative
Bathroom - mid-sized traditional kids' white tile and subway tile marble floor and gray floor bathroom idea in Minneapolis with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, a two-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops and black countertops

This 10,000 sf townhouse sits on one of Manhattan’s most beautiful Upper East Side streets and so the goal of the project was to return the house to its original grandeur. Previously a Kips Bay designer showcase house, the rooms were each designed in a differing style and therefore the lack of cohesion and flow made the house seem choppy. In addition, much of the interior was superficial in the sense that plumbing fixtures were not all connected, walls were “false walls” built in front of existing and much of the construction had to be rebuilt. The scope included creating a large gourmet kitchen in the rear of the ground floor by closing off the winding corridor and creating a new door opening centered on the main entry hall with a paneled arched pocket door mimicking the original detailing of the parlor floor. The kitchen has a Calacatta Gold stone center island and dinning area flanked by counters that run the length of the east and west walls with glass front upper cabinets. A built-in buffet on the south wall anchors the space. A mud room, with access to the delivery entrance and additional storage space was added off the kitchen. A new slim profile steel and glass French door provides access to a new steel rear deck and stairs to the rear yard. On the second floor, a new tile floor was added throughout and RRA designed new stone mantle pieces fabricated from England in the living and dining rooms. On the 3rd floor, a new wall was constructed in the 11’ wide central hallway to allow a new 135 sf master closet with custom designed built-in storage units and accessories. This concept was carried through to the 4th floor on a smaller scale and 4 new storage closets were added in the hallway. The existing bathroom on the 4th Floor was gutted and redesigned including a new 5’x5’ extra deep soaking tub and new fixtures. Silver travertine tiles were used throughout to give the room a durable, waterproof finish while also providing a warm, luxurious feel. The 5th floor was converted into a playroom and TV room for the family’s two young children and was outfitted with chalkboard paint along the entire east wall in the play area and a bold color block wall treatment in the TV room. A new cork floor was installed for durability and resilience to lots of activity yet providing a soft and sustainable floor treatment for its intended user. A full laundry room was also created floor with new cabinetry, plumbing, and floor and wall tile. Additionally, 3 full baths and a powder room were refitted with tumbled travertine tiles on the top two floors. The exterior of the building was refurbished and new lighting and painted doors and frames were installed in accordance with Landmark designation. An additional challenge on the project was that a previously built extension on the PH level was illegally overbuilt and the property had received a violation. A 9 month process of filing drawings, completing zoning analyses and meetings with the DOB Commissioners ensued to get the extension approved allowing us to obtain a permit for the remainder of the work and complete the Certificate of Occupancy. In spite of the complex process and scattered program, the completed townhouse has a cohesive aesthetic throughout, with upgraded amenities befitting this grand representation of elite New York living.

This brownstone renovation was a full gut project in every sense of the word. On top of installing new floors, a kitchen and bath renovation, and all the typical restoration and refinishing involved in a brownstone built in 1899, we also completely updated the exterior, constructed a balcony that was not originally there, and converted the space from a single-family home into an an owner’s triplex. A newly separated studio rental on the garden level offers the opportunity for supplemental income, an uncommon and welcome addition to a New York brownstone. A TRANSITIONAL GEM The result is a two-family brownstone that perfectly combines classic townhouse living with today’s modern needs, including SmartHome technology that we installed to control Bluetooth speakers, Nest thermostats, and the security system. The overall aesthetic goal was to pay homage to the historical periods the brownstone has lived through in a cohesive way that is the hallmark of modern transitional style. In the kitchen, white Shaker-style cabinetry, a subway tile backsplash, and marble rather than quartz countertops bring a classically upscale sensibility. To modernize the space further, we opened up the back wall to create floor-to-ceiling windows that are also doors, opening up into the newly built balcony. TIMELY TOUCHES This brownstone renovation included many quintessential elements, such as millwork like the ceiling medallions. We restored some and custom built others, perfectly recreating their original appearance. The heated master bathroom is now serene, with a walk-in shower featuring a subtly modern linear drain. A herringbone Carrera marble tiled floor and marble slab sink complete the scene. In the powder room, we embraced a contemporary look by pairing dark hexagonal floors with light chevron tiles, accented with dramatic navy blue wallpaper. With its clear-cut 1920s-style, we selected the wall sconce to reference one of the brownstone’s earlier eras. DESIGN DETAILS Natural oak herringbone floors we installed throughout the entire home bring a modern yet warm touch. We restored the wood-burning marble fireplace, which is fully functioning. An elegant staircase with a custom-crafted black wooden banister and white balusters winds up and down alongside a real brick interior wall that we restored and refinished. In this brownstone renovation, we were also able to create ceiling height, an unexpected yet aesthetically pleasing side benefit. When working on the joists and beams to level out the floors (a common issue in pre-war renovations) we added ceiling height in the main parlor floor by taking the second floor and raising the ceiling an entire foot. The end result is a main floor with stunning 9-foot ceilings. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - Solid natural oak herringbone floors throughout - A fully restored, refinished, and functioning wood burning fireplace with a marble mantle - Complete exterior renovation of the facade, cornices, windows, mouldings, and even the ironwork, including the railings leading up to the stoop and those facing the street - A brand new central air and heating system with uniquely modern vents – look above the couch in the living room with the fuzzy rug and large painting Considering a brownstone renovation? Contact us today! We specialize in brownstone renovations in New York as well as all pre-war apartments. When you work with a design-and-build firm like Gallery to renovate your brownstone, you get the full range of our expertise in working with all the finest details and pre-war architectural elements of these classic New York spaces. We also handle every step of the process, from filing permits and organizing schedules to sourcing custom pieces and building entirely new rooms (or even balconies). Call us for a free initial consultation when you’re ready.

Featuring a classic H-shaped plan and minimalist details, the Winston was designed with the modern family in mind. This home carefully balances a sleek and uniform façade with more contemporary elements. This balance is noticed best when looking at the home on axis with the front or rear doors. Simple lap siding serve as a backdrop to the careful arrangement of windows and outdoor spaces. Stepping through a pair of natural wood entry doors gives way to sweeping vistas through the living and dining rooms. Anchoring the left side of the main level, and on axis with the living room, is a large white kitchen island and tiled range surround. To the right, and behind the living rooms sleek fireplace, is a vertical corridor that grants access to the upper level bedrooms, main level master suite, and lower level spaces. Serving as backdrop to this vertical corridor is a floor to ceiling glass display room for a sizeable wine collection. Set three steps down from the living room and through an articulating glass wall, the screened porch is enclosed by a retractable screen system that allows the room to be heated during cold nights. In all rooms, preferential treatment is given to maximize exposure to the rear yard, making this a perfect lakefront home.

Designed with the same “ES” inspiration as plan 2939-ES, Drummond House Plans new approach includes plan 3240-ES, another application of the strategy that encompasses quality of construction, air, energy efficiency, ecologically and ergonomically superior design to create a truly superior home. The Environmentally Superior concept includes optimal implantation, construction and landscaping details that will enhance the livability of your home. Save on energy costs with advice on choosing the best plumbing and electrical appliances and help you age in place with your home because of a design that considers the possible evolution required if mobility issues arise. Plan 3240-ES features a 3 bedroom plan on one level with 9’ ceilings throughout, a two-car garage, an open kitchen/living/dining area with a fireplace, built ins and access to a covered 20’ x 14’ terrace that is also accessible from the master bedroom. The 450 sq. ft. attic/storage space can be attained via a fold-up star case in the garage. To find out more about this superior concept in complete home design, we invite you to consult and comment on plan 2393-ES Blueprints & PDF files starting at: $1130 Drummond House Plans - 2014 Copyright

Aaron Bailey Photography
Example of a minimalist medium tone wood floor family room design in Miami with gray walls, a standard fireplace and a tile fireplace

Modern Citi Group helped our clients Chris & Cinzia complete a full renovation of their three-bedroom Upper East Side apartment: master bedroom, guest bedroom, office, living room, hallway, closets, kitchen, and two bathrooms. Clients wanted the apartment to feel like their own with a modern style and fresh look. The design challenge was to deliver an upscale aesthetic for the entire apartment at a feasible price. Chris & Cinzia wanted to open up their space, make it brighter, and also focus on making sure they have a lot of closet space. The designers worked on several layouts and design visualizations so they had options. Finally, the choice was made and the family felt confident in their decision. Once the permits were filed and approved, the full apartment renovation began. During the building phase, the construction team renovated two bathrooms, completely reconfigured closets in all rooms, and made layout changes. They meticulously placed the exquisite and unique, Calacatta Classique quartz to serve as a floating countertop with a waterfall on both sides, and a backsplash slab, to give the kitchen a luxurious look. In order to maximize the space, the kitchen was opened up towards the dining area for an open concept that is sure to impress. In a matter of twelve weeks, Chris & Cinzia had a new three-bedroom home that fit their style, and vision and increased their home value for future resale.

Inspiration for a transitional staircase remodel in Boston

Designing virtually. The new owner of a recently expanded and remodeled home in East Downtown Albuquerque needed everything. The house was full of charm with it's original exposed beams and brick, but lacked everything else aside from a couple of pieces of art that the owner was bringing from her home base in Northern California. And it was 2020...so, the homeowner and I went room by room, creating spreadsheets, mood boards and shopping lists to outfit her new space, from furniture to forks...and all over email and phone. It was a blast! Melissa, the homeowner who has the most amazing taste in art, provided the perfect jumping off points from which I designed every room. The main living area's color scheme came from the purchase of a local artist's work 'Spring in New Mexico' by Mary Moore Bailey. This piece gave me huge inspiration to go big and bold with color. The master bedroom got the luxe treatment with high end linens from Matouk and vintage finds like a mid-century burlwood dresser and mirrored hollywood regency dressers. File Under: First top to bottom project completed almost exclusively online and in just 2 month's time. ​

Paint by Sherwin Williams Body Color - City Loft - SW 7631 Trim Color - Custom Color - SW 8975/3535 Master Suite & Guest Bath - Site White - SW 7070 Girls' Rooms & Bath - White Beet - SW 6287 Exposed Beams & Banister Stain - Banister Beige - SW 3128-B Flooring & Tile by Macadam Floor & Design Hardwood by Kentwood Floors Hardwood Product Originals Series - Plateau in Brushed Hard Maple Windows by Milgard Windows & Doors Window Product Style Line® Series Window Supplier Troyco - Window & Door Window Treatments by Budget Blinds Lighting by Destination Lighting Fixtures by Crystorama Lighting Interior Design by Tiffany Home Design Custom Cabinetry & Storage by Northwood Cabinets Customized & Built by Cascade West Development Photography by ExposioHDR Portland Original Plans by Alan Mascord Design Associates

Brandon Stengel
Inspiration for a transitional family room remodel in Minneapolis

The Plymouth was designed to fit into the existing architecture vernacular featuring round tapered columns and eyebrow window but with an updated flair in a modern farmhouse finish. This home was designed to fit large groups for entertaining while the size of the spaces can make for intimate family gatherings. The interior pallet is neutral with splashes of blue and green for a classic feel with a modern twist. Off of the foyer you can access the home office wrapped in a two tone grasscloth and a built in bookshelf wall finished in dark brown. Moving through to the main living space are the open concept kitchen, dining and living rooms where the classic pallet is carried through in neutral gray surfaces with splashes of blue as an accent. The plan was designed for a growing family with 4 bedrooms on the upper level, including the master. The Plymouth features an additional bedroom and full bathroom as well as a living room and full bar for entertaining. Photographer: Ashley Avila Photography Interior Design: Vision Interiors by Visbeen Builder: Joel Peterson Homes

The office was created by adding walls and roof over what was an exterior balcony. The office adjoins the master bedroom. Frank Baptie Photography
Study room - large mediterranean built-in desk light wood floor study room idea in Tampa with yellow walls

Our objective on this project was to create an inviting environment within the master bedroom that fit within the house's overall beach vibe. From a functional perspective, the goal was to maximize storage space for the husband and wife. . We utilized clean white materials to create an open-feeling space and complement the light hardwood floors. We also provided substantial shelving space for the couple to store their large collection of shoes, sweaters and accessories, and we added key accessories like a locking jewelry drawer and tilt out hampers.

This well-proportioned two-story design offers simplistic beauty and functionality. Living, kitchen, and porch spaces flow into each other, offering an easily livable main floor. The master suite is also located on this level. Two additional bedroom suites and a bunk room can be found on the upper level. A guest suite is situated separately, above the garage, providing a bit more privacy.

Designing virtually. The new owner of a recently expanded and remodeled home in East Downtown Albuquerque needed everything. The house was full of charm with it's original exposed beams and brick, but lacked everything else aside from a couple of pieces of art that the owner was bringing from her home base in Northern California. And it was 2020...so, the homeowner and I went room by room, creating spreadsheets, mood boards and shopping lists to outfit her new space, from furniture to forks...and all over email and phone. It was a blast! Melissa, the homeowner who has the most amazing taste in art, provided the perfect jumping off points from which I designed every room. The main living area's color scheme came from the purchase of a local artist's work 'Spring in New Mexico' by Mary Moore Bailey. This piece gave me huge inspiration to go big and bold with color. The master bedroom got the luxe treatment with high end linens from Matouk and vintage finds like a mid-century burlwood dresser and mirrored hollywood regency dressers. File Under: First top to bottom project completed almost exclusively online and in just 2 month's time. ​

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.

Mark Ehlen Creative
Example of a trendy home design design in Minneapolis

Earth Bound Homes’ Sunnyvale, Ca Green Home Remodel and Addition. Rated as the Greenest Home in California! Oceanside glass Tile in a travertine tile filed on the front side of a tub surround.