Our clients were relocating from the upper peninsula to the lower peninsula and wanted to design a retirement home on their Lake Michigan property. The topography of their lot allowed for a walk out basement which is practically unheard of with how close they are to the water. Their view is fantastic, and the goal was of course to take advantage of the view from all three levels. The positioning of the windows on the main and upper levels is such that you feel as if you are on a boat, water as far as the eye can see. They were striving for a Hamptons / Coastal, casual, architectural style. The finished product is just over 6,200 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 2 guest bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sunroom, home bar, home gym, dedicated seasonal gear / equipment storage, table tennis game room, sauna, and bonus room above the attached garage. All the exterior finishes are low maintenance, vinyl, and composite materials to withstand the blowing sands from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Our clients were relocating from the upper peninsula to the lower peninsula and wanted to design a retirement home on their Lake Michigan property. The topography of their lot allowed for a walk out basement which is practically unheard of with how close they are to the water. Their view is fantastic, and the goal was of course to take advantage of the view from all three levels. The positioning of the windows on the main and upper levels is such that you feel as if you are on a boat, water as far as the eye can see. They were striving for a Hamptons / Coastal, casual, architectural style. The finished product is just over 6,200 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 2 guest bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sunroom, home bar, home gym, dedicated seasonal gear / equipment storage, table tennis game room, sauna, and bonus room above the attached garage. All the exterior finishes are low maintenance, vinyl, and composite materials to withstand the blowing sands from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Paul Gates Photography
Sunroom - transitional medium tone wood floor and brown floor sunroom idea with no fireplace and a standard ceiling

Creating spaces that make connections between the indoors and out, while making the most of the panoramic lake views and lush landscape that surround were two key goals of this seasonal home’s design. Central entrance into the residence brings you to an open dining and lounge space, with natural light flooding in through rooftop skylights. Soaring ceilings and subdued color palettes give the adjacent kitchen and living room an airy and expansive feeling, while the large, sliding glass doors and picture windows bring the warmth of the outdoors in. The family room, located in one of the two zinc-clad connector spaces, offers a more intimate lounge area and leads into the master suite wing, complete with vaulted ceilings and sleek lines. Three additional guest suites can be found in the opposite wing of the home, providing ideally separate living spaces for a multi-generational family. Photographer: Steve Hall © Hedrich Blessing Architect: Booth Hansen

Our clients hired us to design their second home in Northern Michigan; a place they could relax, unwind and enjoy all that Northern Michigan has to offer. Their main residence is in St. Louis, Missouri and they first came to Northern Michigan on vacation with friends. They fell in love with the area and ultimately purchased property in the Walloon area. In addition to the lot they build their home on, they also purchased the lot next door to have plenty of room to garden. The finished product includes a large, open area great room and kitchen, master bedroom and laundry on the main level as well as two guest bedrooms; laundry and a large living area in the walk-out lower level. The large upper deck as well as lower patio offer plenty of room to enjoy the outdoors and their lovely view of beautiful Walloon lake.

This older couple have been residing in their one level custom home since the early 80’s. The Master bathroom old design was dysfunctional, steps in bathroom were dangerous for their age, the deck mounted tub took too much floor space, vanity space was limited. Swing doors were cutting accessibility for them. The wanted to open up the space and bring this old dragged of bathroom into a new era of design and functionality. Planned a double sided fireplace in front of the tub area, taking out all multi-level shower and tub area, enlarged the shower stall and moved the new free standing tub directly under the wall of glass blocks, We have taken advantage of tall cathedral ceiling and added new ceiling and recess lights to brighten this space. The toilet area was enclosed with a frost glass pocket and made more room for larger vanity and counter space, given them lots of storage, small closets were taken out and replaced with larger linen cabinetry. We have relocated the toilet to open up large portion of back wall, now home for his vanity space. The shower was moved to the corner, taking some space form adjacent closet. Customer framed mirror, sconce lighting has taken over the left side of pantry, will large scale tile (and heated floor) this master bathroom transformation has given them a whole new life. Carefully selected stain on cabinetry complimenting the stone top and porcelain floor and wall tiles were all a big part of this transformation. The custom closet system has given them a much-needed space for their clothing and all their seasonal clothes. Now more than ever life in their master suite is pleasurable and relaxing.

Our clients were relocating from the upper peninsula to the lower peninsula and wanted to design a retirement home on their Lake Michigan property. The topography of their lot allowed for a walk out basement which is practically unheard of with how close they are to the water. Their view is fantastic, and the goal was of course to take advantage of the view from all three levels. The positioning of the windows on the main and upper levels is such that you feel as if you are on a boat, water as far as the eye can see. They were striving for a Hamptons / Coastal, casual, architectural style. The finished product is just over 6,200 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 2 guest bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sunroom, home bar, home gym, dedicated seasonal gear / equipment storage, table tennis game room, sauna, and bonus room above the attached garage. All the exterior finishes are low maintenance, vinyl, and composite materials to withstand the blowing sands from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Our clients were relocating from the upper peninsula to the lower peninsula and wanted to design a retirement home on their Lake Michigan property. The topography of their lot allowed for a walk out basement which is practically unheard of with how close they are to the water. Their view is fantastic, and the goal was of course to take advantage of the view from all three levels. The positioning of the windows on the main and upper levels is such that you feel as if you are on a boat, water as far as the eye can see. They were striving for a Hamptons / Coastal, casual, architectural style. The finished product is just over 6,200 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 2 guest bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sunroom, home bar, home gym, dedicated seasonal gear / equipment storage, table tennis game room, sauna, and bonus room above the attached garage. All the exterior finishes are low maintenance, vinyl, and composite materials to withstand the blowing sands from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

This older couple have been residing in their one level custom home since the early 80’s. The Master bathroom old design was dysfunctional, steps in bathroom were dangerous for their age, the deck mounted tub took too much floor space, vanity space was limited. Swing doors were cutting accessibility for them. The wanted to open up the space and bring this old dragged of bathroom into a new era of design and functionality. Planned a double sided fireplace in front of the tub area, taking out all multi-level shower and tub area, enlarged the shower stall and moved the new free standing tub directly under the wall of glass blocks, We have taken advantage of tall cathedral ceiling and added new ceiling and recess lights to brighten this space. The toilet area was enclosed with a frost glass pocket and made more room for larger vanity and counter space, given them lots of storage, small closets were taken out and replaced with larger linen cabinetry. We have relocated the toilet to open up large portion of back wall, now home for his vanity space. The shower was moved to the corner, taking some space form adjacent closet. Customer framed mirror, sconce lighting has taken over the left side of pantry, will large scale tile (and heated floor) this master bathroom transformation has given them a whole new life. Carefully selected stain on cabinetry complimenting the stone top and porcelain floor and wall tiles were all a big part of this transformation. The custom closet system has given them a much-needed space for their clothing and all their seasonal clothes. Now more than ever life in their master suite is pleasurable and relaxing.

Open concept kitchen - mid-sized contemporary galley medium tone wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen idea with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

The importance of organization throughout the home is the most evident in her master closet. The designer, client, and cabinet designer worked hand-in-hand to create a space that was beautiful but also full of the best storage for clothing, purses, shoes, and accessories. Pull-down clothing rods are perfect for closets with tall ceilings to store out-of-season clothing. Jewelry drawers lined with felt, slanted shoe shelves, a storage bench, and so many more fine details make this a superbly functioning space. By Design Interiors, Erika Barczak. Builder: Keechi Creek Photographer: Brad Carr

This older couple have been residing in their one level custom home since the early 80’s. The Master bathroom old design was dysfunctional, steps in bathroom were dangerous for their age, the deck mounted tub took too much floor space, vanity space was limited. Swing doors were cutting accessibility for them. The wanted to open up the space and bring this old dragged of bathroom into a new era of design and functionality. Planned a double sided fireplace in front of the tub area, taking out all multi-level shower and tub area, enlarged the shower stall and moved the new free standing tub directly under the wall of glass blocks, We have taken advantage of tall cathedral ceiling and added new ceiling and recess lights to brighten this space. The toilet area was enclosed with a frost glass pocket and made more room for larger vanity and counter space, given them lots of storage, small closets were taken out and replaced with larger linen cabinetry. We have relocated the toilet to open up large portion of back wall, now home for his vanity space. The shower was moved to the corner, taking some space form adjacent closet. Customer framed mirror, sconce lighting has taken over the left side of pantry, will large scale tile (and heated floor) this master bathroom transformation has given them a whole new life. Carefully selected stain on cabinetry complimenting the stone top and porcelain floor and wall tiles were all a big part of this transformation. The custom closet system has given them a much-needed space for their clothing and all their seasonal clothes. Now more than ever life in their master suite is pleasurable and relaxing.

This older couple have been residing in their one level custom home since the early 80’s. The Master bathroom old design was dysfunctional, steps in bathroom were dangerous for their age, the deck mounted tub took too much floor space, vanity space was limited. Swing doors were cutting accessibility for them. The wanted to open up the space and bring this old dragged of bathroom into a new era of design and functionality. Planned a double sided fireplace in front of the tub area, taking out all multi-level shower and tub area, enlarged the shower stall and moved the new free standing tub directly under the wall of glass blocks, We have taken advantage of tall cathedral ceiling and added new ceiling and recess lights to brighten this space. The toilet area was enclosed with a frost glass pocket and made more room for larger vanity and counter space, given them lots of storage, small closets were taken out and replaced with larger linen cabinetry. We have relocated the toilet to open up large portion of back wall, now home for his vanity space. The shower was moved to the corner, taking some space form adjacent closet. Customer framed mirror, sconce lighting has taken over the left side of pantry, will large scale tile (and heated floor) this master bathroom transformation has given them a whole new life. Carefully selected stain on cabinetry complimenting the stone top and porcelain floor and wall tiles were all a big part of this transformation. The custom closet system has given them a much-needed space for their clothing and all their seasonal clothes. Now more than ever life in their master suite is pleasurable and relaxing.

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.

Our clients were relocating from the upper peninsula to the lower peninsula and wanted to design a retirement home on their Lake Michigan property. The topography of their lot allowed for a walk out basement which is practically unheard of with how close they are to the water. Their view is fantastic, and the goal was of course to take advantage of the view from all three levels. The positioning of the windows on the main and upper levels is such that you feel as if you are on a boat, water as far as the eye can see. They were striving for a Hamptons / Coastal, casual, architectural style. The finished product is just over 6,200 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 2 guest bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sunroom, home bar, home gym, dedicated seasonal gear / equipment storage, table tennis game room, sauna, and bonus room above the attached garage. All the exterior finishes are low maintenance, vinyl, and composite materials to withstand the blowing sands from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Our clients were relocating from the upper peninsula to the lower peninsula and wanted to design a retirement home on their Lake Michigan property. The topography of their lot allowed for a walk out basement which is practically unheard of with how close they are to the water. Their view is fantastic, and the goal was of course to take advantage of the view from all three levels. The positioning of the windows on the main and upper levels is such that you feel as if you are on a boat, water as far as the eye can see. They were striving for a Hamptons / Coastal, casual, architectural style. The finished product is just over 6,200 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 2 guest bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sunroom, home bar, home gym, dedicated seasonal gear / equipment storage, table tennis game room, sauna, and bonus room above the attached garage. All the exterior finishes are low maintenance, vinyl, and composite materials to withstand the blowing sands from the Lake Michigan shoreline.

http://51ramblingroad.com In this coveted neighborhood just minutes from Loring Elementary, enjoy the best of every season in this welcoming four bedroom Colonial presiding over a spectacular 1.04 level acre lot. The newly renovated light and bright family room with fireplace overlooks a spectacular yard that is perfect for get-togethers and play. Hardwood floors, a warm and inviting eat-in kitchen, freshly painted expansive living room and dining room complete the first floor. The second story features four bedrooms including an impressive master suite. The lower level finished playroom with built-ins and storage boasts plenty of space for entertainment. Newer windows, furnace, roof, and just completed exterior paint are just a few of the upgrades. A picture perfect neighborhood setting with easy access to all that Sudbury has to offer....top notch schools, bustling recreation, shopping nearby and easy access to commuter routes make this a perfect place to call home. Photo by: Eric Barry

  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

A MTI Metro Soaker drop-in tub over looks the lake in the Master Bathroom. Both the open shower, located to the right, and the tub provide tranquil views of the water in all seasons. Flooring is 12x24" United Crossville Moonstruck in Juno. Stillwater Woodworking built the double sink cabinet, painted "Frostine" white, paint by Benjamin Moore. Cabinets are completed with Schuab Country chrome pulls. Undermount sinks are Kohler Archers, both faucets are Kohler Bancroft in Chrome. Counters are 3cm Pental "Cendre Polished" with 6" matching backsplash. One sink overlooks the garden while the other has a simple flat ground edge mirror above it. A Kichler Cahoon light illuminates the tub area, providing soft light in the evenings. Wall color is fittingly called "Swimming," by Sherwin Williams. Photography by Marie-Dominique Verdier.