Kitchen is Center In our design to combine the apartments, we centered the kitchen - making it a dividing line between private and public space; vastly expanding the storage and work surface area. We discovered an existing unused roof penetration to run a duct to vent out a powerful kitchen hood. The original bathroom skylight now illuminates the central kitchen space. Without changing the standard skylight size, we gave it architectural scale by carving out the ceiling to maximize daylight. Light now dances off the vaulted, sculptural angles of the ceiling to bathe the entire space in natural light.

Sheridan Beach Lakefront Remodel: Lifestyle Enhanced! Lakeside living at its finest! The owners of this dated Sheridan Beach home wanted an entertaining space that would take full advantage of the beautiful Lake Washington location. Adams Architecture and Prestige Residential Construction collaborated to realize this dream with timeless touches and advanced home technology. The light filled kitchen features a generous island and high quality stainless steel appliances. The entire great room, including the wet bar, is fitted with traditional custom cabinets serving a variety of functions including always needed extra storage. With wide French and bi-fold doors open, the space welcomes the outside in with views of the lake and Mount Rainier. When entertaining, guests can flow seamlessly from the heated tile floors to the lakeside deck. Of special construction note: the homeowners wanted to utilize the latest technology in their home without sacrificing design. To this end, the multi-zoned HVAC system is well concealed in the box beam ceiling and maximizes comfort throughout the entire home. The great room is outfitted with state-of-the-art technology, including LED lighting, power window coverings via a Lutron keypad system accessible through iPad or iPhone. The audio/visual system uses a universal remote and concealed ceiling mounted speakers.

The Memphis Reversible Sectional Sofa is the definition of moder luxury and functionality. The Memphis sectional sofa features modular units that allow you to effortlessly rearrange its layout according to your preferences. Create one large sectional sofa or separate it to 3 separate seating units. The ottoman serves as a versatile footrest or seating option. Stay connected and powered up with the built-in USB and charging outlets conveniently located in the sofa's armrest. Charge your devices while lounging, ensuring you're always ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Maximize storage space and keep your living area clutter-free with the sofa's side storage compartment with a convenient drawer. With its modular design, convenient features, and exquisite craftsmanship, this sectional sofa redefines the art of lounging in unparalleled luxury.

This reimagined 1927 Spanish Revival home is a celebration of thoughtful and meticulous design. The kitchen, a true centerpiece of the transformation, seamlessly blends modernity with the home's historic charm. The design story begins with the exquisite teal backsplash tile, a striking focal point that draws inspiration from the color of the exterior trim. This intentional choice creates a harmonious connection between the interior and exterior, showcasing the designer's attention to detail. The expanded opening between the dining room and kitchen not only enhances the spatial flow but also reflects a modern sensibility, making the home more open and inviting. The integration of new hardwood flooring, precisely matched to the original wood, speaks to the commitment to preserving the home's character while introducing fresh elements. Modern appliances and sleek plumbing fixtures are carefully chosen to complement the aesthetic without overpowering it. The custom cabinetry is both beautiful and functional, featuring innovative built-ins like a mixer-lift, spice drawer, and pull-outs designed to maximize usability and storage. Every element of this kitchen was designed with purpose, blending historic beauty with contemporary needs. It's a space where the art of design truly shines, offering a timeless yet modern ambiance for both everyday living and special gatherings. This kitchen isn't just a place to cook—it's a testament to the power of thoughtful design.

The Stern Residence ‘Nautilus House’ is Michigan’s second USGBC LEED for Homes Platinum level certified whole house remodel. This ambitious project took a modest, unas- suming Cape Cod and completely transformed the home adding a new second floor and a dramatic curved roof above. The arced roof, besides being sculpturally striking, was intentionally designed to use the largest dimension of SIP panels manufactured, eliminating waste and maximizing utility, and provided an armature for mounting solar panels in the optimal location on the heavily wooded site. -James Haefner Photography

The Stern Residence ‘Nautilus House’ is Michigan’s second USGBC LEED for Homes Platinum level certified whole house remodel. This ambitious project took a modest, unas- suming Cape Cod and completely transformed the home adding a new second floor and a dramatic curved roof above. The arced roof, besides being sculpturally striking, was intentionally designed to use the largest dimension of SIP panels manufactured, eliminating waste and maximizing utility, and provided an armature for mounting solar panels in the optimal location on the heavily wooded site. -James Haefner Photography

Scott and Janet of Elgin have had four design to build renovations with Advance Design over the last decade. We got the chance to sit down and talk with Janet about her experience working with Advance Design on so many different areas of her home. Starting with her kitchen in 2009, Janet proclaimed, “The reason we kept coming back is because our first [renovation] went so extremely well, exceeding all of my expectations.” Since their kitchen renovation with Advance Design ten years ago, Scott and Janet have also worked with Advance to remodel their master bedroom, their power room, a wet bar, and most recently their master bath. Having renovated practically every major room in the house with the team, we asked Janet what made her experience with Advance Design so special. “We went with Advance Design because we trusted them so much more, their experience, and everything that they brought. We were confident they were giving us what we wanted for the money we were spending.” For their most recent renovation, Scott and Janet clearly knew what to expect going into their master bath renovation. They were familiar with Advance’s step by step design process that epitomizes the “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy applied in every project Advance creates. After once again experiencing the careful budgeting analysis, the pointed design meetings, and the clear documentation that leads up the a thoroughly managed installation, Janet’s simple summary of their experience is this; “The word I would use to describe the process is – collaboration!” Working closely with Advance Design kitchen designer Michelle Lecinski, together they were able to develop a new master bath design that not only worked with their investment goal, but also made sense for their lifestyle. “Oh Michelle, my designer! I connected with her immediately. She spent time getting to know us, our lifestyle, even the setting of our house.” The threesome had a great experience designing and producing yet another successful project together. When it came to their new project plans, Scott and Janet were interested in creating a relaxing “spa-like” experience in their master bath. One of the many ideas Michelle introduced during the design process was installing a Kohler Alteo series showerhead for a rain-like shower experience. This designer showerhead, mixed with the warm ambiance of the lighting and pebble accent running throughout the shower make for what Janet calls a “luxury spa essence”. From the oversized glass sliding door to the recessed niche for accessories, each special detail was considered and implemented intentionally so as to create the maximumly optimized use of the compact space. Not only was this transformation one of beauty and luxury, but special attention was given to every way possible to provide additional storage to maximize the functionality of the bath area as a whole. Once design was complete and the bath construction project began in their home, making sure everything happened efficiently and on schedule became new priority number one. “Having a project manager made an enormous difference,” Janet said, “It was so worth it to hire professionals that knew exactly what they were doing. Even after all of these years, I wouldn’t change a thing.” “It was a pleasure working together with Janet and Scott to create this beautiful space that will enhance their lives for many years,” says Michelle. “It is so much fun to get to do this job every day, I love that I can have this sort of impact on their lives by doing something for them [Janet & Scott] that comes so naturally to me!” After reviewing the long-term relationship with clients like Scott and Janet, owner Todd Jurs had this to say, “Clients returning and asking us to transform that next area of their home really warms my heart. It reaffirms that every decision to please clients no matter what is always the right choice, and that our honesty and integrity along with the immense collective talent of this team is recognized and appreciated by those who continue to return to us year after year.” He continued to say, “I always say how blessed we truly are to be able to do what we do, and experiences like this one put a smile on my face every time.”

Scott and Janet of Elgin have had four design to build renovations with Advance Design over the last decade. We got the chance to sit down and talk with Janet about her experience working with Advance Design on so many different areas of her home. Starting with her kitchen in 2009, Janet proclaimed, “The reason we kept coming back is because our first [renovation] went so extremely well, exceeding all of my expectations.” Since their kitchen renovation with Advance Design ten years ago, Scott and Janet have also worked with Advance to remodel their master bedroom, their power room, a wet bar, and most recently their master bath. Having renovated practically every major room in the house with the team, we asked Janet what made her experience with Advance Design so special. “We went with Advance Design because we trusted them so much more, their experience, and everything that they brought. We were confident they were giving us what we wanted for the money we were spending.” For their most recent renovation, Scott and Janet clearly knew what to expect going into their master bath renovation. They were familiar with Advance’s step by step design process that epitomizes the “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy applied in every project Advance creates. After once again experiencing the careful budgeting analysis, the pointed design meetings, and the clear documentation that leads up the a thoroughly managed installation, Janet’s simple summary of their experience is this; “The word I would use to describe the process is – collaboration!” Working closely with Advance Design kitchen designer Michelle Lecinski, together they were able to develop a new master bath design that not only worked with their investment goal, but also made sense for their lifestyle. “Oh Michelle, my designer! I connected with her immediately. She spent time getting to know us, our lifestyle, even the setting of our house.” The threesome had a great experience designing and producing yet another successful project together. When it came to their new project plans, Scott and Janet were interested in creating a relaxing “spa-like” experience in their master bath. One of the many ideas Michelle introduced during the design process was installing a Kohler Alteo series showerhead for a rain-like shower experience. This designer showerhead, mixed with the warm ambiance of the lighting and pebble accent running throughout the shower make for what Janet calls a “luxury spa essence”. From the oversized glass sliding door to the recessed niche for accessories, each special detail was considered and implemented intentionally so as to create the maximumly optimized use of the compact space. Not only was this transformation one of beauty and luxury, but special attention was given to every way possible to provide additional storage to maximize the functionality of the bath area as a whole. Once design was complete and the bath construction project began in their home, making sure everything happened efficiently and on schedule became new priority number one. “Having a project manager made an enormous difference,” Janet said, “It was so worth it to hire professionals that knew exactly what they were doing. Even after all of these years, I wouldn’t change a thing.” “It was a pleasure working together with Janet and Scott to create this beautiful space that will enhance their lives for many years,” says Michelle. “It is so much fun to get to do this job every day, I love that I can have this sort of impact on their lives by doing something for them [Janet & Scott] that comes so naturally to me!” After reviewing the long-term relationship with clients like Scott and Janet, owner Todd Jurs had this to say, “Clients returning and asking us to transform that next area of their home really warms my heart. It reaffirms that every decision to please clients no matter what is always the right choice, and that our honesty and integrity along with the immense collective talent of this team is recognized and appreciated by those who continue to return to us year after year.” He continued to say, “I always say how blessed we truly are to be able to do what we do, and experiences like this one put a smile on my face every time.”

This award-winning kitchen renovation was a special project for repeat clients for whom we had previously built an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). Now focusing on their personal home, the goal was clear: create a larger, more functional kitchen perfect for cooking, entertaining, and hosting gatherings. To achieve this, we absorbed the back porch and opened the kitchen to flow seamlessly into the front living room, allowing the space to comfortably accommodate large groups. Thoughtful design choices maintained both style and function, like the installation of a gas stovetop on the kitchen island paired with a high-powered hood mounted higher above the cooking surface, ensuring clear sightlines without sacrificing performance. By opting to install custom cabinetry, these homeowners were able to maximize every inch of their space and enable unique storage solutions, such as dedicated cutting board storage, towel cubbies, a shallow pantry carved into the wall for spices, and even a clever cabinet gap under the wet bar for the homeowners' cat food area. Large French doors connect the kitchen to an outdoor living space, creating a natural extension for summertime entertaining. To tie the renovation together, an original built-in received a fresh coat of paint, while a new fireplace surround was crafted, and the stone hearth update added warmth and charm to the living area. The result is a beautifully reimagined kitchen and living space that balances functionality, character, and the joy of hosting family and friends.

This client asked me to provide them with ample storage in their ski vacation condo's kitchen. I wanted to take advantage of the end wall to maximize the countertop and give them more storage with a cabinet under the new range that is 92" wide. Even though the cabinet is well supported, the cabinet opening has no center divider which would hinder any individual seeking out pots and kettles from below. The other elements fell into logical places including a generous pantry to the right of the refrigerator. In trying to maintain the sleek look of the backsplash, I worked diligently with the electrician to avoid outlets in the backsplash area as much as possible using Task Lighting's angled power strips. I love working with the outlet strips that tuck up under the cabinetry; they are brilliantly discreet. One of the special elements in this kitchen is the log pedestal base under the cantilevered bar top that is a continuation of the cap on the half wall. This log is from my neighbor's tree which they were cutting down in perfect timing with this renovation. Other components from this same tree are incorporated elsewhere in the condo. Surrounding the bar top are great wrought iron bar stools from Charleston Forge Photo by Sandra J. Curtis, ASID

To make the room more functional and aesthetically pleasing, the utilities were kept separate in their own room. To maximize the area and keep the cabinet from taking up unnecessary space, the media cabinetry was inset into the common wall of the mechanical room. The left and right-hand closets were custom-designed to fit the homeowners’ decorations, supplies and miscellaneous storage needs. The walls and ceiling were painted Universal Khaki and textured to match the rest of the house. The trim and doors were painted in enamel white, also to match the rest of the home. Special features include custom-designed Kitchen Craft cabinets painted in a Cappuccino finish, a Virginia Ledgestone accent wall, Palliser Flicks power recliners, a GE wall oven, and a Zephyr wine cooler. The home theater room also features A/V, surround sound, HVAC, ambient lighting, wall sconces, row seating, in-wall speakers, and heated floors for optional floor seating.

Unparalleled luxury and convenience with our Lutron Automated Shade Installation services in Annapolis, Maryland. Designed to enhance your living spaces, these seamless and beautiful automated shades offer an unobstructed, spectacular view of the Chesapeake River right from the comfort of your home. Built with intelligent automation technology, our Lutron shades are configured to rise in the morning and close in the evening, adjusting themselves based on the time of year to maximize natural light and energy efficiency. Gain full control of your shades with user-friendly keypads and a dedicated app, allowing you to easily position your shades exactly where you want them, whenever you desire. Why choose One Source Systems for your Lutron Automated Shade Installation? • Expert Installation: Our skilled technicians ensure a flawless setup, integrating the automated shades into your existing smart home ecosystem. • Tailored Automation: Your shades adapt to the changing seasons, providing you with the perfect lighting and privacy settings year-round. • Multiple Control Options: With accessible keypads and a convenient mobile app, you hold the power to customize your shades at the tip of your fingers. Elevate your home with the modern convenience and aesthetic appeal of our Lutron Automated Shades. Contact us today to discover how we can enrich your living experience.

In an older home in Great Neck, we opened up a wall between the small kitchen and a storage room and eliminated a powder room to enlarge the kitchen/dining concept. To enlarge the kitchen and allow backyard views, we flipped the kitchen to the back of the house, found a space to move the powder room and eliminated the small room. The client chose an Italian industrial look cement textured door style. We brightened the look with high gloss white upper cabinets. Two new attractive large windows let in natural light and gave them views of their yard. They wanted a quartz counter that looked like marble. Since quartz doesn’t offer this style, we chose a marble look porcelain which is stunning! Additional cabinetry, pantry and island increased their storage. Two sinks and additional counter space made it functional for two. The work flow of the kitchen was easy and open. All materials are easy to clean. The eat-in kitchen maximized the dining away ambiance. To satisfy their culinary desires, we added a spice drawer and cabinet. The coffee bar has a drawer for easy access. The island faucet includes sparkling water. Since they love grilled food all year round, we recommended a range top with a grill and high-powered vented hood. The full-size wine fridge makes it easy to store wine conveniently. The built-in steam oven allowed them to cook small meals with high efficiency.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

Chicagoland Home Products showed a Lincolnshire homeowner how to eliminate expense on their custom closet without looking as if cost was even a consideration. Often, backer panels are used in an application like this so you can’t look through the installation and see the walls. By painting the wall in this space to match the color of the system instead, there was no need for the panels. As you can see in the pictures, the illusion of an attached back wall is very realistic. The savings on the project is real too! The African Walnut finish, which is just one of many choices, provides depth and power to the master closet. Raised Panel fronts contribute to the richness of this design as do the Chateau handles. This custom designed closet also features ample hanging space, convenient open shelves and two drawer banks with doors above the drawer tiers. The area here is not the ubiquitous rectangular shape and underscores the value of how Chicagoland Home Products can custom design what you need to maximize the potential of your storage and closet space. The synergy developed when your great ideas are combined with the expertise of CHP staff consistently yields results that are greater than the sum of the parts. The ultimate judge of the project is when it provides years of function and beauty but, getting there can be half the fun as clients and consultants work together and discover that collaboration is one of the keys to success.

Geometric frames of wood finished in Uddo create forms inspired by Japanese contemporary design. Light mysterious appears from high powered LED modules which are cleverly concealed within the center of the frame. http://www.maximlighting.com/familydisp2.aspx?family=2752

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams. The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe. The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard. A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

This never-occupied, move-in ready custom home in The Estates at Ascent at The Phoenician showcases the power of professional home staging. With unobstructed Camelback Mountain views, over 4,600 sq ft of designer living space, and luxury finishes throughout, this property was thoughtfully staged to highlight its architectural beauty and create emotional appeal for high-end buyers. Staging features include layered textures, neutral tones, and curated furnishings that enhance the natural light, open flow, and high-end amenities—like the invisacook induction island, glass-enclosed wine display, and spa-style primary suite. Every space, from the dramatic entry to the multiple view patios, was styled to maximize visual impact and buyer connection. Luxury home staging helped bring this one-of-a-kind property to life, showing its full potential and lifestyle story.

Compact corner toilet designed to maximize every inch of your bathroom — featuring a sleek profile, efficient dual-flush system, and powerful siphon performance for comfort and sustainability.