Search results for "Master hosting" in Home Design Ideas

The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars.
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Abouna

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Abouna
Find the right local pro for your project

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Whitestown, Indiana, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern charm. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, this layout maximizes spatial volume and natural light on the main level with soaring 10-foot ceilings. The open-concept first floor seamlessly connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen into an expansive heart of the home perfect for hosting gatherings. To blend luxury with practicality, custom built-in shelving is integrated throughout the home, including a dedicated home office featuring organized open shelving paired with premium cabinetry to keep the workspace immaculate.
For ultimate privacy, the luxurious first-floor owner’s retreat serves as a quiet main-level sanctuary. This primary suite offers abundant organization with two separate, oversized walk-in closets, ensuring no shortage of storage space. The spa-like owner's bath is designed for a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a meticulously detailed custom tile shower.
Upstairs, 9-foot ceilings maintain an airy, elevated feel across an entertainment-focused second floor. The second-story loft features a show-stopping mini wet bar complete with a custom wine storage piece, serving as the perfect transition into the adjacent media room. Engineered for ultimate comfort, this space is designed as a cozy in-home theater featuring authentic tiered seating, ensuring there isn’t a bad seat in the house for family movie nights or weekend game days.

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River.
The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes.
The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes.
The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front.
The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural.
Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders
Anice Hoachlander Photography

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life.
The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time.
The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room.
Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage.
Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee.
We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces.
In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color.
The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook!
Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home.
The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client.
Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients!
We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms.
This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Abouna

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Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
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The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars.
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Abouna

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours
The second-largest and most developed of Georgia's barrier islands, St. Simons is approximately twelve miles long and nearly three miles wide at its widest stretch (roughly the size of Manhattan Island in New York). The island is located in Glynn County on Georgia's coast and lies east of Brunswick (the seat of Glynn County), south of Little St. Simons Island and the Hampton River, and north of Jekyll Island. The resort community of Sea Island is separated from St. Simons on the east by the Black Banks River. Known for its oak tree canopies and historic landmarks, St. Simons is both a tourist destination and, according to the 2010 U.S. census, home to 12,743 residents.
Early History
The earliest
St. Simons Island Village
record of human habitation on the island dates to the Late Archaic Period, about 5,000 to 3,000 years ago. Remnants of shell rings left behind by Native Americans from this era survive on many of the barrier islands, including St. Simons. Centuries later, during the period known by historians as the chiefdom era, the Guale Indians established a chiefdom centered on St. Catherines Island and used St. Simons as their hunting and fishing grounds. By 1500 the Guale had established a permanent village of about 200 people on St. Simons, which they called Guadalquini.
Beginning in 1568, the Spanish attempted to create missions along the Georgia coast. Catholic missions were the primary means by which Georgia's indigenous Native American chiefdoms were assimilated into the Spanish colonial system along the northern frontier of greater Spanish Florida. In the 1600s St. Simons became home to two Spanish missions: San Buenaventura de Guadalquini, on the southern tip of the island, and Santo Domingo de Asao (or Asajo), on the northern tip. Located on the inland side of the island were the pagan refugee villages of San Simón, the island's namesake, and Ocotonico. In 1684 pirate raids left the missions and villages largely abandoned.
Colonial History
As
Fort Frederica
early as 1670, with Great Britain's establishment of the colony of Carolina and its expansion into Georgia territory, Spanish rule was threatened by the English. The Georgia coast was considered "debatable land" by England and Spain, even though Spain had fully retreated from St. Simons by 1702. Thirty-one years later General James Edward Oglethorpe founded the English settlement of Savannah. In 1736 he established Fort Frederica, named after the heir to the British throne, Frederick Louis, prince of Wales, on the west side of St. Simons Island to protect Savannah and the Carolinas from the Spanish threat.
Between 1736 and 1749 Fort Frederica was the hub of British military operations along the Georgia frontier. A town of the same name grew up around the fort and was of great importance to the new colony. By 1740 Frederica's population was 1,000. In 1736 the congregation of what would become Christ Church was organized within Fort Frederica as a mission of the Church of England. Charles Wesley led the first services. In 1742 Britain's decisive victory over Spain in the Battle of Bloody Marsh, during the War of Jenkins' Ear, ended the Spanish threat to the Georgia coast. When the British regimen disbanded in 1749, most of the townspeople relocated to the mainland. Fort Frederica went into decline and, except for a short time of prosperity during the 1760s and 1770s under the leadership of merchant James Spalding, never fully recovered. Today the historic citadel's tabby ruins are maintained by the National Park Service.
Plantation Era
By the start of the American Revolution (1775-83), Fort Frederica was obsolete, and St. Simons was left largely uninhabited as most of its residents joined the patriot army. Besides hosting a small Georgia naval victory on the Fort Frederica River, providing guns from its famous fort for use at Fort Morris in Sunbury, and serving as an arena for pillaging by privateers and British soldiers, the island played almost no role in the war.
Following the war, many of the townspeople, their businesses destroyed, turned to agriculture. The island was transformed into fourteen cotton plantations after acres of live oak trees were cleared for farm land and used for building American warships, including the famous USS Constitution, or "Old Ironsides." Although rice was the predominant crop along the neighboring Altamaha River, St. Simons was known for its production of long-staple cotton, which soon came to be known as Sea Island cotton.
Between
Ebos Landing
the 1780s and the outbreak of the Civil War (1861-65), St. Simons's plantation culture flourished. The saline atmosphere and the availability of cheap slave labor proved an ideal combination for the cultivation of Sea Island cotton. In 1803 a group of Ebo slaves who survived the Middle Passage and arrived on the west side of St. Simons staged a rebellion and drowned themselves. The sacred site is known today as Ebos Landing.
One of the largest owners of land and slaves on St. Simons was Pierce Butler, master of Hampton Point Plantation, located on the northern end of the island. By 1793 Butler owned more than 500 slaves, who cultivated 800 acres of cotton on St. Simons and 300 acres of rice on Butler's Island in the Altamaha River delta. Butler's grandson, Pierce Mease Butler, who at the age of sixteen inherited a share of his grandfather's estate in 1826, was responsible for the largest sale of human beings in the history of the United States: in 1859, to restore his squandered fortune, he sold 429 slaves in Savannah for more than $300,000. The British actress and writer Fanny Kemble, whose tumultuous marriage to Pierce ended in divorce in 1849, published an eyewitness account of the evils of slavery on St. Simons in her book Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839 (1863).
Another
Retreat Plantation
large owner of land and slaves on St. Simons was Major William Page, a friend and employee of Pierce Butler Sr. Before purchasing Retreat Plantation on the southwestern tip of the island in 1804, Page managed the Hampton plantation and Butler's Island. Upon Page's death in 1827, Thomas Butler King inherited the land together with his wife, Page's daughter, Anna Matilda Page King. King expanded his father-in-law's planting empire on St. Simons as well as on the mainland, and by 1835 Retreat Plantation alone was home to as many as 355 slaves.
The center of life during the island's plantation era was Christ Church, Frederica. Organized in 1807 by a group of island planters, the Episcopal church is the second oldest in the Diocese of Georgia. Embargoes imposed by the War of 1812 (1812-15) prevented the parishioners from building a church structure, so they worshiped in the home of John Beck, which stood on the site of Oglethorpe's only St. Simons residence, Orange Hall.
The first Christ Church building, finished on the present site in 1820, was ruined by occupying Union troops during the Civil War. In 1884 the Reverend Anson Dodge Jr. rebuilt the church as a memorial to his first wife, Ellen. The cruciform building with a trussed gothic roof and stained-glass windows remains active today as Christ Church.
Civil War and Beyond
The
St. Simons Island Lighthouse
outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 put a sudden end to St. Simons's lucrative plantation era. In January of that year, Confederate troops were stationed at the south end of the island to guard the entrance to Brunswick Harbor. Slaves from Retreat Plantation, owned by Thomas Butler King, built earthworks and batteries. Plantation residents were scattered—the men joined the Confederate army and their families moved to the mainland. Cannon fire was heard on the island in December 1861, and Confederate troops retreated in February 1862, after dynamiting the lighthouse to keep its beacon from aiding Union troops. Soon thereafter, Union troops occupied the island, which was used as a camp for freed slaves. By August 1862 more than 500 former slaves lived on St. Simons, including Susie King Taylor, who organized a school for freed slave children. But in November the ex-slaves were taken to Hilton Head, South Carolina, and Fernandina, Florida, leaving the island abandoned.
After the Civil War the island never returned to its status as an agricultural community. The plantations lay dormant because there were no slaves to work the fields. After Union general William T. Sherman's January 1865 Special Field Order No. 15 —a demand that former plantations be divided and distributed to former slaves—was overturned by U.S. president Andrew Johnson less than a year later, freedmen and women were forced to work as sharecroppers on the small farms that dotted the land previously occupied by the sprawling plantations.
By
St. Simons Lumber Mills
1870 real economic recovery began with the reestablishment of the timber industry. Norman Dodge and Titus G. Meigs of New York set up lumber mill operations at Gascoigne Bluff, formerly Hamilton Plantation. The lumber mills provided welcome employment for both blacks and whites and also provided mail and passenger boats to the mainland. Such water traffic, together with the construction of a new lighthouse in 1872, designed by architect Charles B. Cluskey, marked the beginning of St. Simons's tourism industry. The keeper of the lighthouse created a small amusement park, which drew many visitors, as did the seemingly miraculous light that traveled from the top of the lighthouse tower to the bottom. The island became a summer retreat for families from the mainland, particularly from Baxley, Brunswick, and Waycross.
The island's resort industry was thriving by the 1880s. Beachfront structures, such as a new pier and grand hotel, were built on the southeastern end of the island and could be accessed by ferry. Around this time wealthy northerners began vacationing on the island.
Twentieth Century
The
St. Simons Island Pier and Village
opening in 1924 of the Brunswick–St. Simons Highway, today known as the Torras Causeway, was a milestone in the development of resorts in the area. St. Simons's beaches were now easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. More than 5,000 automobiles took the short drive from Brunswick to St. Simons via the causeway on its opening day, paving the way for convenient residential and resort development.
In 1926 automotive pioneer Howard Coffin of Detroit, Michigan, bought large tracts of land on St. Simons, including the former Retreat Plantation, and constructed a golf course, yacht club, paved roads, and a residential subdivision. Although the causeway had brought large numbers of summer people to the island, St. Simons remained a small community with only a few hundred permanent residents until the 1940s.
The
St. Simons Island
outbreak of World War II (1941-45) brought more visitors and residents to St. Simons. Troops stationed at Jacksonville, Florida; Savannah; and nearby Camp Stewart took weekend vacations on the island, and a new naval air base and radar school became home to even more officers and soldiers. The increased wartime population brought the island its first public school. With a major shipyard for the production of Liberty ships in nearby Brunswick, the waters of St. Simons became active with German U-boats. In April 1942, just off the coast, the Texas Company oil tanker S. S. Oklahoma and the S. S. Esso Baton Rouge were torpedoed by the Germans, bringing the war very close to home for island residents.
Due in large part to the military's improvement of the island's infrastructure during the war, development on the island boomed in the 1950s and 1960s. More permanent homes and subdivisions were built, and the island was no longer just a summer resort but also a thriving community. In 1950 the Methodist conference and retreat center Epworth by the Sea opened on Gascoigne Bluff. In 1961 novelist Eugenia Price visited St. Simons and began work on her first works of fiction, known as the St. Simons Trilogy. Inspired by real events on the island, Price's trilogy renewed interest in the history of Georgia's coast, and the novelist herself relocated to the island in 1965 and lived there for thirty-one years. St. Simons is also home to contemporary Georgia writer Tina McElroy Ansa.
Since
Epworth by the Sea
1980 St. Simons's population has doubled. The island's continued status as a vacation destination and its ongoing development boom have put historic landmarks and natural areas at risk. While such landmarks as the Fort Frederica ruins and the Battle of Bloody Marsh site are preserved and maintained by the National Park Service, and while the historic lighthouse is maintained by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society, historic Ebos Landing has been taken over by a sewage treatment plant.
Several coastal organizations have formed in recent years to save natural areas on the island. The St. Simons Land Trust, for example, has received donations of large tracts of land and plans to protect property in the island's three traditional African American neighborhoods. Despite its rapid growth and development, St. Simons remains one of the most beautiful and important islands on the Georgia coast.

A Sussex family hired us as the design build remodel company to makeover this kitchen. This remodeling project had three main goals: improve storage, update the layout/style and enhance the functionality.
IMPROVE STORAGE
The original home builder put in very narrow cabinets. The small, narrow cabinets made it difficult for the homeowners to store items. They also said it was important to have a kitchen that works for their children. The new design incorporates an appliance cabinet and wide drawers for storing items. The kids have easy access to snack drawers and lower dish storage for plastic cups and plates. Also, we added two built-in cabinets in the dining room for more storage.
UPDATE THE LAYOUT & STYLE
While the area was large, it didn’t maximize the space or fit their contemporary style. They wanted plenty of counter prep space and enough room for friends and family to gather. We added a large wood island with seating – perfect for hosting parties and family dinners. The space is bright with white shaker cabinetry and subway tile backsplash. Warm touches include satin bronze light fixtures and hardware.
ENHANCE THE FUNCTIONALITY
This Sussex kitchen features a Galley Sink Workstation. Having a sink workstation facing the center of the room allows the homeowners to stay part of the conversation while preparing a meal or cleaning up. Sink workstations are one of the hottest kitchen trends.
HOMEOWNER REVIEW
“We recently completed our kitchen remodel with Kowalske and we can’t say enough good things about our experience. Not only was every member of the team amazing, the work that was done in our kitchen was very high quality. We have recommended Kowalske to all of our friends and plan to use them for our master bath remodel in the future!” – Nicole, homeowner (Houzz Review)

3rd Place Winner of Signature Kitchens & Baths 18th Annual Bath Design Awards 2016, Kate Benjamin Photographer, Lindsey Markel Kitchen & Bath Designer, Shana Smith Interior Designer and Don Henderson Custom Installer

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Abouna

Sponsored
Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Aubouna

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life.
The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time.
The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room.
Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage.
Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee.
We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces.
In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color.
The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook!
Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home.
The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client.
Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients!
We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms.
This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

What’s not to love about this gorgeous Logan Square backyard patio?
Rooftopia had the distinct pleasure of designing and building this terrific outdoor retreat for one of our repeat clients as a flexible family friendly extension of their newly rehabbed home. The overall design provides a cohesive environment with plenty of versatile space to enjoy as a family or entertain a large group of friends. Our clients can easily set up an outdoor work-from-home hub, relax after work, spend time playing with their little one, or host a large dinner party.
This modern landscape features a luxury outdoor kitchen with high quality aluminum cabinets by Urban Bonfire, and Dekton countertops installed with the help of Stone Masters. The outdoor kitchen also incorporates a stainless steel grill, an outdoor refrigerator and a sink for optimal outdoor dining and entertaining.
This sleek and modern pergola integrates metal and wood screening to create privacy, shade and a one of a kind backdrop to surround the outdoor kitchen and hide utilities. The one of a kind ornamental metal screens include chic wall planters for summer herbs and edible plants that can be picked fresh or utilized while cooking.
Rooftopia designed and built a custom outdoor fireplace to add a heating element and another layer of luxury ambiance and warmth to the outdoor seating area.
New porcelain patio pavers made by Unilock were installed by London Stoneworks. Turf was added to the backyard for a family friendly play area. Other elements that were incorporated in this backyard design include an outdoor LED lighting system for exceptional ambiance in the evening, and seasonal planter boxes to add greenery, soft textures and pops of color with annual flowers rotating throughout the seasons.

Transitional porcelain tile eat-in kitchen photo in Jacksonville with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, quartz countertops, beige backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Taking good care of this home and taking time to customize it to their family, the owners have completed four remodel projects with Castle.
The 2nd floor addition was completed in 2006, which expanded the home in back, where there was previously only a 1st floor porch. Now, after this remodel, the sunroom is open to the rest of the home and can be used in all four seasons.
On the 2nd floor, the home’s footprint greatly expanded from a tight attic space into 4 bedrooms and 1 bathroom.
The kitchen remodel, which took place in 2013, reworked the floorplan in small, but dramatic ways.
The doorway between the kitchen and front entry was widened and moved to allow for better flow, more countertop space, and a continuous wall for appliances to be more accessible. A more functional kitchen now offers ample workspace and cabinet storage, along with a built-in breakfast nook countertop.
All new stainless steel LG and Bosch appliances were ordered from Warners’ Stellian.
Another remodel in 2016 converted a closet into a wet bar allows for better hosting in the dining room.
In 2018, after this family had already added a 2nd story addition, remodeled their kitchen, and converted the dining room closet into a wet bar, they decided it was time to remodel their basement.
Finishing a portion of the basement to make a living room and giving the home an additional bathroom allows for the family and guests to have more personal space. With every project, solid oak woodwork has been installed, classic countertops and traditional tile selected, and glass knobs used.
Where the finished basement area meets the utility room, Castle designed a barn door, so the cat will never be locked out of its litter box.
The 3/4 bathroom is spacious and bright. The new shower floor features a unique pebble mosaic tile from Ceramic Tileworks. Bathroom sconces from Creative Lighting add a contemporary touch.
Overall, this home is suited not only to the home’s original character; it is also suited to house the owners’ family for a lifetime.
This home will be featured on the 2019 Castle Home Tour, September 28 – 29th. Showcased projects include their kitchen, wet bar, and basement. Not on tour is a second-floor addition including a master suite.

For three years this Westlake Village couple lived in a house that didn't quite fit their needs. With frequent houseguests staying for weeks at a time, the family needed more space, particularly in the cramped kitchen. So began their search for a new home. Though the couple viewed several residences, they realized nothing compared to the space and location of the house they already owned. The family knew JRP by reputation from friends who were JRP clients. After consulting with our team, the couple agreed a whole-home renovation was the way to the dream home they had been searching for. Inspired by top architectural magazines, the couple had a clear vision of how their home should look and feel: a clean, open, modern space with a mix of details that played to the family's lively spirit.
The highlight of this new, open floorplan home is the gorgeous kitchen perfect for hosting. The unified palette is soft and beautiful. Clean, bright surfaces underpin strong visual elements such as polished quartz countertops, brushed oak floors, and glass tiles set in a herringbone pattern. A center-island breakfast bar now sits opposite a giant picture window and a show-stopping view of the Santa Monica mountains. Upstairs, the redesigned master bath is what dreams are made of. The double vanity and freestanding tub were rearranged to maximize space while the wood tile floors and stunning rock backsplash add an elemental feel. Now completely transformed, every detail of this transitional home creates the perfect atmosphere for relaxing and entertaining.
Cabinets (Manufacturer, Door Style, Material, Color/Stain or Finish)
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Just White
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, Fashion Grey
- Dewils, Shaker Frameless, Maple, North Sea
Countertops (Material Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Quartz – Vadara, Toledo, Calacatta Dorado
Light Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Collection, Color)
- Dining Chandelier – Existing
- Breakfast Area Pendant – 1213 Madison Collection, Polished Nickel/Royal Cut Crystal
- Dining Wall Mount Sconce – Heart Sconce, Aged Iron with Natural Percale
- Kitchen Island Pendant – Darlana, Polished Chrome
- Master Bath Ceiling – Bling Flushmount
- Master Bath Vanity – Robert Abbey Fine Lighting Double Shade Bath, Polished Nickel over Steel
- Exterior – Primo Lanterns, The Yorkshire Electric Lantern, Custom Graphite Finish
Plumbing Fixture (Type - Manufacturer, Color)
- Freestanding Tub – Existing
- Tubfiller – Existing
- Master Bath Faucets – Existing
- Kitchen Faucets – Hansgrohe, Chrome
Sink (Type – Manufacturer, Material)
- Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen– Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Single Prep – Elkay, Stainless Steel
- Undermount Bar Sink – Kohler, Stainless Steel
- Ladena Undermount Lavatory – Kohler, Ceramic
Hardware (Type – Manufacturer, Color)
- Deadbolt – Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Dummy - Emtek, Satin Nickel
- Passage & Privacy - Emtek, Stainless Steel
Color of wall:
- Kitchen, Breakfast Area, Family Room – Dunn Edwards Edgecomb Grey
- Master Bath – Dunn Edwards Foggy Day
- Living and Dining – Dunn Edwards Winter Morning
Tile (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- KITCHEN BACKSPLASH: Glass - Ann Sacks, Jute, Ecru/Gloss
- MASTER BATH FLOORS, TUB ACCENT WALL, & HALL BATH FLOORS: Porcelain – Bedrosians, Tahoe, Frost/Glazed
- ACCENT WALL BEHIND TUB: Mosaic – Daltile, Flat River Pebble, Creamy Sand
- FIREPLACE FLOOR: Porcelain Tile - Agora Surfaces, Almeria, Lava/Matte
Stone/Masonry (Location: Material Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color)
- FIREPLACE: Stone Veneer – Eldorado, European Ledge, Zinc/Dry Stacked
Wood Floor (Type – Manufacturer, Collection/Style, Color/Wash)
- Siberian Oak – Provenza, Heirloom, Light Wire Brushed
Windows/Exterior Doors (Type - Manufacturer)
- 2 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- 3 Wide Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Awning – Jeld-Wen
- Single Casement – Jeld-Wen
- Stationary – Jeld-Wen
Photographer: Andrew Abouna

Eilien and Kim's property relatively small property is located at the end of a long oak-tree-lined driveway. Once past the huge 55" oak tree, the property reveals a grove of 40" redwoods, as well as two gargantuan 65" redwoods smack dab in the middle of the buildable area. Eilien and Kim desired a home that celebrates these beautiful mature trees and that blended the indoor-outdoor barrier.
The home that Aardvark Architecture designed for their family takes the shape of a pseudo-courtyard home built right up to the critical root zones of the gargantuan redwoods in the middle of the lot. Full-height sliding glass doors are centered on these huge trees and open directly onto a large deck built tight to these unique feature trees.
A rich material palette of redwood siding and brick veneer blends in harmoniously with the serenely wooded site. Large banks of skylights allow for views of the huge oak tree canopy that would otherwise have been blocked off by other spaces.
The second floor is accessed by a light-filled staircase that wraps around a redwood-clad elevator shaft. When coming down the stairs, the full-height windows direct the eye towards a grove of 40" redwood trees.
The second floor hosts a luxurious master suite, as well as a second bedroom and a home gym. These spaces are raised up into the canopy of the mature redwood and oak trees, and incorporate full-height windows so the residents can take full advantage of these beautiful specimens.
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