This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The Klimala’s and their three kids are no strangers to moving, this being their fifth house in the same town over the 20-year period they have lived there. “It must be the 7-year itch, because every seven years, we seem to find ourselves antsy for a new project or a new environment. I think part of it is being a designer, I see my own taste evolve and I want my environment to reflect that. Having easy access to wonderful tradesmen and a knowledge of the process makes it that much easier”. This time, Klimala’s fell in love with a somewhat unlikely candidate. The 1950’s ranch turned cape cod was a bit of a mutt, but it’s location 5 minutes from their design studio and backing up to the high school where their kids can roll out of bed and walk to school, coupled with the charm of its location on a private road and lush landscaping made it an appealing choice for them. “The bones of the house were really charming. It was typical 1,500 square foot ranch that at some point someone added a second floor to. Its sloped roofline and dormered bedrooms gave it some charm.” With the help of architect Maureen McHugh, Klimala’s gutted and reworked the layout to make the house work for them. An open concept kitchen and dining room allows for more frequent casual family dinners and dinner parties that linger. A dingy 3-season room off the back of the original house was insulated, given a vaulted ceiling with skylights and now opens up to the kitchen. This room now houses an 8’ raw edge white oak dining table and functions as an informal dining room. “One of the challenges with these mid-century homes is the 8’ ceilings. I had to have at least one room that had a higher ceiling so that’s how we did it” states Klimala. The kitchen features a 10’ island which houses a 5’0” Galley Sink. The Galley features two faucets, and double tiered rail system to which accessories such as cutting boards and stainless steel bowls can be added for ease of cooking. Across from the large sink is an induction cooktop. “My two teen daughters and I enjoy cooking, and the Galley and induction cooktop make it so easy.” A wall of tall cabinets features a full size refrigerator, freezer, double oven and built in coffeemaker. The area on the opposite end of the kitchen features a pantry with mirrored glass doors and a beverage center below. The rest of the first floor features an entry way, a living room with views to the front yard’s lush landscaping, a family room where the family hangs out to watch TV, a back entry from the garage with a laundry room and mudroom area, one of the home’s four bedrooms and a full bath. There is a double sided fireplace between the family room and living room. The home features pops of color from the living room’s peach grass cloth to purple painted wall in the family room. “I’m definitely a traditionalist at heart but because of the home’s Midcentury roots, I wanted to incorporate some of those elements into the furniture, lighting and accessories which also ended up being really fun. We are not formal people so I wanted a house that my kids would enjoy, have their friends over and feel comfortable.” The second floor houses the master bedroom suite, two of the kids’ bedrooms and a back room nicknamed “the library” because it has turned into a quiet get away area where the girls can study or take a break from the rest of the family. The area was originally unfinished attic, and because the home was short on closet space, this Jack and Jill area off the girls’ bedrooms houses two large walk-in closets and a small sitting area with a makeup vanity. “The girls really wanted to keep the exposed brick of the fireplace that runs up the through the space, so that’s what we did, and I think they feel like they are in their own little loft space in the city when they are up there” says Klimala. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Calacatta Capri is a new quartz slab that can transform any interior application. Calacatta Capri quartz features a stark white background with warm-colored narrow veins. The vein structure is very proportionate throughout the unit, which display's how far innovation and master craftsmanship has come in the engineering process of quartz slabs. Calacatta Capri is offered in a large format and has a vein matching option to ensure that your countertops flow together seamlessly.

Overview Whole house refurbishment, double storey wrap around extension and large loft conversion. The Brief Create a WOW factor space, add glamour and fun and give the house a street side and garden side, both different. Our Solution This project was exciting from the start, the client wanted to entertain in a WOW factor space, have a panoramic view of the garden (which was to be landscaped), add bedrooms and a great master suite. We had some key elements to introduce such as an aquarium separating two rooms; double height spaces and a gloss kitchen, all of which manifest themselves in the completed scheme. Architecture is a process taking a schedule of areas, some key desires and needs, mixing the functionality and creating space. New spaces transform a house making it more valuable, giving it kerb appeal and making it feel like a different building. All of which happened at Ailsa Road.

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

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 Steve Gotter

Our clients were in the process of building their home in Roselle, Illinois and were looking for a cabinet maker to work with for cabinetry in their kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. All custom cabinetry is frameless full overlay. In the kitchen we finished the perimeter with Benjamin Moore White and the island in Gray. The master bathroom vanity is built with a natural oak and horizontal gray on the slab doors. The Jack & Jill vanity has a shaker door style and finished in Benjamin Moore Naval. Lastly, the en suite bathroom vanity also has a shaker door style and finished in Sherwin Williams Essential gray.

Our clients came to us with a house that did not inspire them but which they knew had the potential to give them everything that they dreamed of. They trusted in our approach and process and over the course of the year we designed and gut renovated the first floor of their home to address the seen items and unseen structural needs including: a new custom kitchen with walk-in pantry and functional island, new living room space and full master bathroom with large custom shower, updated living room and dining, re-facing and redesign of their fireplace and stairs to the second floor, new wide-plank white oaks floors throughout, interior painting, new trim and mouldings throughout.

Our clients came to us with a house that did not inspire them but which they knew had the potential to give them everything that they dreamed of. They trusted in our approach and process and over the course of the year we designed and gut renovated the first floor of their home to address the seen items and unseen structural needs including: a new custom kitchen with walk-in pantry and functional island, new living room space and full master bathroom with large custom shower, updated living room and dining, re-facing and redesign of their fireplace and stairs to the second floor, new wide-plank white oaks floors throughout, interior painting, new trim and mouldings throughout.

Our clients were in the process of building their home in Roselle, Illinois and were looking for a cabinet maker to work with for cabinetry in their kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. All custom cabinetry is frameless full overlay. In the kitchen we finished the perimeter with Benjamin Moore White and the island in Gray. The master bathroom vanity is built with a natural oak and horizontal gray on the slab doors. The Jack & Jill vanity has a shaker door style and finished in Benjamin Moore Naval. Lastly, the en suite bathroom vanity also has a shaker door style and finished in Sherwin Williams Essential gray.

Our clients were in the process of building their home in Roselle, Illinois and were looking for a cabinet maker to work with for cabinetry in their kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. All custom cabinetry is frameless full overlay. In the kitchen we finished the perimeter with Benjamin Moore White and the island in Gray. The master bathroom vanity is built with a natural oak and horizontal gray on the slab doors. The Jack & Jill vanity has a shaker door style and finished in Benjamin Moore Naval. Lastly, the en suite bathroom vanity also has a shaker door style and finished in Sherwin Williams Essential gray.

True Hardwood Flooring THE TRUE DIFFERENCE The new True hardwood flooring collection is truly amazing with stunning colors and features. Hallmark Floors is the first to master this revolutionary technology of replicating “the bog-wood process” that occurs when logs lie buried in lakes, river, and waterways for hundreds of years, deprived of oxygen and sunlight. This process in nature can take centuries for the wood to turn from its natural color to deep golden brown or even completely black. Hallmark has emulated nature’s methods to create saturated colors throughout the top layer, creating stunning, weathered patinas. True bog-wood, driftwood, and weathered barn wood are all very rare. These cherished wood treasures are in high demand worldwide for use in furniture and flooring. Now Hallmark has made these prized finishes available to everyone through our True hardwood flooring collection.

Bryan Chavez Photography River City Custom Homes - RounTrey - 2015 Homearama Farmhouse with a Modern Vibe Gold Winner - Master Suite Aware of the financial investment clients put into their homes, I combine my business and design expertise while working with each client to understand their taste, enhance their style and create spaces they will enjoy for years to come. It’s been said that I have a “good” eye. I won’t discount that statement and I’d add I have an affinity to people, places and things that tell a story. My clients benefit from my passion and ability to turn their homes into finely curated spaces through the use of beautiful textiles, amazing lighting and furniture pieces that are as timeless as they are wonderfully unique. I enjoy the creative process and work with people who are building their dream homes, remodeling existing homes or desire a fresh take on a well lived-in space. I see the client–designer relationship as a partnership with a desire to deliver an end result that exceeds my client’s expectations. I approach each project with professionalism, unparalleled excitement and a commitment for designing homes that are as livable as they are beautiful.

This family had a beautiful piece of property, located in the Township of Mendham, and wanted a large home approximately 4,000 to 4,500 square feet. That number changed many times during the schematic phase process which is part of the design process where AGA works through the different possible layouts within the parameters of the agreed upon project. The original proposal was spelled out as follows: first floor: 10 foot ceilings, two story entry with grand staircase open to second floor, study, dining room, great room – two story space (family room) with gas fireplace open to kitchen with eat-in breakfast area, powder room, laundry room and mud room adjacent to a three car garage and sunken entertainment room. Additional features included a back staircase to the second floor. The second floor requirements were: 9 foot ceilings, three bedrooms and two full baths (one bath to be Jack and Jill), master bedroom suite to include sitting area, two walk-in closets and master bath. The owner ended up getting everything on his wish list and we managed to keep the home under 4,500 square feet

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

s an expert general contractor, our approach to renovating the kitchen and two bathrooms, including the master bath, is centered on a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship. Kitchen Renovation: We begin by collaborating closely with the homeowner to understand their vision, needs, and budget for the kitchen renovation. Our team carefully assesses the existing layout, identifying opportunities to optimize space and improve flow. We execute a meticulous demolition process, removing old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and appliances. With a focus on modernizing the kitchen, we install high-quality materials such as custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, and durable hardwood or tile flooring. State-of-the-art appliances are integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring both functionality and style. We pay attention to details such as lighting fixtures, backsplashes, and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen. Bathroom Renovations: For the two bathrooms and the master bath, we prioritize creating spa-like retreats that offer both comfort and luxury. Each bathroom renovation begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing layout and plumbing. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to select fixtures, finishes, and materials that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Our skilled craftsmen install new tile flooring, shower surrounds, and vanities, paying careful attention to precision and detail. In the master bath, we may incorporate additional features such as a spacious walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub, or custom-built cabinetry for enhanced storage. We ensure that each bathroom renovation is completed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Throughout the entire renovation process, our team prioritizes clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for the homeowner's property. We strive to exceed expectations at every step, delivering stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations that enhance the overall value and enjoyment of the home.

This was a builder-grade primary bathroom and closet with dated finishes, an awkward layout and annoying doors that swung into the walkways. It was time to give these spaces a complete overhaul to create a retreat that was both functional and luxurious. Our clients wanted to improve traffic flow, storage space and eliminate the tub they knew they’d never use. This is the second home for our clients who live in California. They bought this house to have a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. As the design process started, Covid-19 shutdowns threatened to derail the entire project. We quickly pivoted to a virtual design process to keep the project moving forward toward completion.

Our clients were in the process of building their home in Roselle, Illinois and were looking for a cabinet maker to work with for cabinetry in their kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. All custom cabinetry is frameless full overlay. In the kitchen we finished the perimeter with Benjamin Moore White and the island in Gray. The master bathroom vanity is built with a natural oak and horizontal gray on the slab doors. The Jack & Jill vanity has a shaker door style and finished in Benjamin Moore Naval. Lastly, the en suite bathroom vanity also has a shaker door style and finished in Sherwin Williams Essential gray.