Inspiration for a transitional bathroom remodel in Minneapolis

A white marble walk-in shower with bench and polished brass shower system. Shower System MPN: CCK6172 Photo by Emily of @elevengables
Inspiration for a transitional shower bench remodel in Los Angeles with a hinged shower door

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Eric Roth Photo

It’s no surprise these Hanover clients reached out to Cathy and Ed of Renovisions for design and build services as they wanted a local professional bath specialist to turn their plain builder-grade bath into a luxurious handicapped accessible master bath. Renovisions had safety and universal design in mind while creating this customized two-person super shower and well-appointed master bath so their clients could escape to a special place to relax and energize their senses while also helping to conserve time and water as it is used simultaneously by them. This completely water proofed spacious 4’x8’ walk-in curb-less shower with lineal drain system and larger format porcelain tiles was a must have for our senior client –with larger tiles there are less grout lines, easier to clean and easier to maneuver using a walker to enter and exit the master bath. Renovisions collaborated with their clients to design a spa-like bath with several amenities and added conveniences with safety considerations. The bench seat that spans the width of the wall was a great addition to the shower. It’s a comfortable place to sit down and stretch out and also to keep warm as electric mesh warming materials were used along with a programmable thermostat to keep these homeowners toasty and cozy! Careful attention to all of the details in this master suite created a peaceful and elegant environment that, simply put, feels divine. Adding details such as the warming towel rack, mosaic tiled shower niche, shiny polished chrome decorative safety grab bars that also serve as towel racks and a towel rack inside the shower area added a measure of style. A stately framed mirror over the pedestal sink matches the warm white painted finish of the linen storage cabinetry that provides functionality and good looks to this space. Pull-down safety grab bars on either side of the comfort height high-efficiency toilet was essential to keep safety as a top priority. Water, water everywhere for this well deserving couple – multiple shower heads enhances the bathing experience for our client with mobility issues as 54 soft sprays from each wall jet provide a soothing and cleansing effect – a great choice because they do not require gripping and manipulating handles yet provide a sleek look with easy cleaning. The thermostatic valve maintains desired water temperature and volume controls allows the bather to utilize the adjustable hand-held shower on a slide-bar- an ideal fixture to shower and spray down shower area when done. A beautiful, frameless clear glass enclosure maintains a clean, open look without taking away from the stunning and richly grained marble-look tiles and decorative elements inside the shower. In addition to its therapeutic value, this shower is truly a design focal point of the master bath with striking tile work, beautiful chrome fixtures including several safety grab bars adding aesthetic value as well as safety benefits.

This modern lake house is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The residence overlooks a mountain lake with expansive mountain views beyond. The design ties the home to its surroundings and enhances the ability to experience both home and nature together. The entry level serves as the primary living space and is situated into three groupings; the Great Room, the Guest Suite and the Master Suite. A glass connector links the Master Suite, providing privacy and the opportunity for terrace and garden areas. Won a 2013 AIANC Design Award. Featured in the Austrian magazine, More Than Design. Featured in Carolina Home and Garden, Summer 2015.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This custom design-built gated stone-exterior European mansion is nearly 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor luxury living. Featuring a 19” foyer with spectacular Swarovski crystal chandelier, 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 8 1/2 bathrooms, high-end designer’s main floor, and wok/fry kitchen with mother of pearl mosaic backsplash, Subzero/Wolf appliances, open-concept design including a huge formal dining room and home office. Radiant heating throughout the house with central air conditioning and HRV systems. The master suite consists of the master bedroom with individual balcony, Hollywood style walk-in closet, ensuite with 2-person jetted tub, and steam shower unit with rain head and double-sided body jets. Also includes a fully finished basement suite with separate entrance, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and living room.

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Photography: Eric Roth Photo

Antique white walk-in closet offers abundant shoe and handbag storage. Note the special java glazing and classical embellishments such as decorative molding and acanthus leaf corbels.

4,440 SF two story home in Brentwood, CA. This home features an attached two-car garage, 5 Bedrooms, 5 Baths, Upstairs Laundry Room, Office, Covered Balconies and Deck, Sitting Room, Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, Kitchen, Study, Downstairs Guest Room, Foyer, Morning Room, Covered Loggia, Mud Room. Features warm copper gutters and downspouts as well as copper standing seam roofs that grace the main entry and side yard lower roofing elements to complement the cranberry red front door. An ample sun deck off the master provides a view of the large grassy back yard. The interior features include an Elan Smart House system integrated with surround sound audio system at the Great Room, and speakers throughout the interior and exterior of the home. The well out-fitted Gym and a dark wood paneled home Office provide private spaces for the adults. A large Playroom with wainscot height chalk-board walls creates a fun place for the kids to play. Photos by: Latham Architectural

The Cicero is a modern styled home for today’s contemporary lifestyle. It features sweeping facades with deep overhangs, tall windows, and grand outdoor patio. The contemporary lifestyle is reinforced through a visually connected array of communal spaces. The kitchen features a symmetrical plan with large island and is connected to the dining room through a wide opening flanked by custom cabinetry. Adjacent to the kitchen, the living and sitting rooms are connected to one another by a see-through fireplace. The communal nature of this plan is reinforced downstairs with a lavish wet-bar and roomy living space, perfect for entertaining guests. Lastly, with vaulted ceilings and grand vistas, the master suite serves as a cozy retreat from today’s busy lifestyle. Photographer: Brad Gillette