The Challenge This beautiful waterfront home was begging for an update. Our clients wanted a contemporary design with modern finishes. They craved improved functionality in the kitchen, hardwood flooring in the living areas, and a spacious walk-in closet in the master bathroom. With two children in school, our clients also needed the project completed during their summer vacation – leaving a slim 90 days for the entire remodel. Could we do it? …Challenge accepted! Our Solution With their active summer travel schedule, our clients elected to vacate their home for the duration of the project. This was ideal for the intrusive nature of the scope of work. In preparation, our design team created a project plan to suit our client’s needs. With such a clear timeline, we were able to select and order long-lead items in plenty of time for the project start date. In the kitchen, we rearranged the layout to provide superior ventilation for the cooktop on the exterior wall. We added two large storage cabinets with glass doors, accented by a sleek mosaic backsplash of glass tile. We also incorporated a large contemporary waterfall island into the room. With seating at one end, the island provides both increased functionality and an eye-catching focal point for the center of the room. On the interior wall of the kitchen, we maximized storage with a wall of built-in cabinetry – complete with pullout pantry cabinets, a double oven, and a large stainless refrigerator. Our clients wisely chose rich, dark-colored wood flooring to add warmth to the contemporary design. After installing the flooring in the kitchen, we brought it into the main living areas as well. In the great room, we wrapped the existing gas fireplace in a neutral stack stone. The effect of the stone on the media and window wall is breathtaking. In the master bathroom, we expanded the closet by pushing the wall back into the adjacent pass-through hallway. The new walk-in closet now includes an impressive closet organization system. Returning to the master bathroom, we removed the single vanity and repositioned the toilet, allowing for a new, curb-less glass shower and a his-and-hers vanity. The entire vanity and shower wall is finished in white 12×24 porcelain tile. The vertical glass mosaic accent band and backlit floating mirrors add to the clean, modern style. To the left of the master bathroom entry, we even added a matching make-up area. Finally, we installed a number of elegant enhancements in the remaining rooms. The clients chose a bronze metal relief accent wall as well as some colorful finishes and artwork for the entry and hallway. Exceptional Results Our clients were simply thrilled with the final product! Not only did they return from their summer vacation to a gorgeous home remodel, but we concluded the project a full week ahead of schedule. As a result, the family was able to move in sooner than planned, giving them plenty of time to acclimate to the renovated space before their kids returned to school. Ultimately, we provided the outstanding results and customer experience that our clients had been searching for. “We met with many other contractors leading up to signing with Progressive Design Build. When we met Mike, we finally felt safe. We had heard so many horror stories about contractors! Progressive was the best move we could have made. They made our dream house become a reality. Vernon was in charge of our project and everything went better than we expected. Our project was completed earlier than expected, too. Our questions and concerns were dealt with quickly and professionally, the job site was always clean, and all subs were friendly and professional. We had a wonderful experience with Progressive Design Build. We’re so grateful we found them.” – The Mader Family

Kevin G. Smith
Living room - contemporary living room idea in Seattle

This kitchen renovation features numerous storage options to maximize the small space. These features include a pull out pantry, a blind corner unit, and a spice & oil pull out. Photo by Paul Schraub Photography

Example of a large backyard concrete paver and rectangular pool house design in DC Metro

This “upside down” floorplan of the “Forest Retreat” in Pennsylvania flips the traditional home blueprint. Architect Gabe Hodge’s design places the main living areas, like the kitchen and living room, on the upper level of the home and the bedrooms on the lower level. Placing the living areas on the second floor maximizes opportunities for the homeowners to enjoy light and views of nature throughout the day. Various products from the Marvin Ultimate collection are used throughout the home; the collection offers unlimited customization and supports large glass sizes to achieve ultimate design flexibility. “I was impressed by our ability to truly customize our windows,” said the homeowner. “This house is so unique, so that customization really offered us the opportunity to have exactly what we wanted.”

The Notch House is a thoroughly modern home with nods to the New Hampshire wilderness. Architect Paul Lewandowski wanted to maximize the surrounding scenery. His final design was modular and glass-enclosed, allowing for views at every angle. The Marvin Modern collection “made all the difference in the world” for the homeowners. “It allowed us to get the floor to ceiling that we wanted,” they said. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Modern Direct Glaze Window Marvin Modern Casement Window Marvin Modern Awning Window Marvin Ultimate Sliding French Door Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door Architecture Firm: Paul Designs Project Dealer: Windows and Doors by Brownwell

Imagine a compact backyard home in Golden that keeps family close but gives everyone space. The Golden ADU sits west of North Table Mountain, offering owners a private retreat so their kids' family can take the main house – all while framing epic Denver views. The owners needed independence with family ties, so we created a unit that balances privacy and proximity. South-facing design captures stunning plains and city sights for daily inspiration. Multi-generational living can feel crowded, but this ADU provides a separate, functional space without sacrificing connection. It handles site limits by maximizing views and light efficiently. The concept mixes sloped roofs and simple boxes for a fresh, modern feel that fits the landscape. A large deck extends the living area outdoors, inviting relaxation amid the scenery. Standard wood framing keeps it durable and budget-friendly, built strong for Colorado's elements. South orientation and big windows bring in passive solar warmth and natural light, reducing energy needs while keeping things cozy. Practical main floor with one bedroom, two baths, office, mudroom, and open kitchen-living – all designed for ease and flow. Completed in 2022, the Golden ADU is a smart solution for family living. It blends privacy, views, and efficiency, creating a peaceful space that strengthens bonds and enhances life in the mountains.

Aging in place has become more and more important for retirees. For a recently retired couple in Asheville, North Carolina, having a space for family and friends, an accessible floor plan, and maximizing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains were all priorities for their new home build. The Marvin Ultimate collection offered the couple design flexibility. The final interior space is spacious, airy, and lets in plenty of natural light. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Ultimate Casement Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Awning Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Direct Glaze Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Swinging Door Design: Altura Architects Builder: Jade Mountain Builders Interior Design: Allard and Roberts Dealer: Asheville Window and Door

Aging in place has become more and more important for retirees. For a recently retired couple in Asheville, North Carolina, having a space for family and friends, an accessible floor plan, and maximizing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains were all priorities for their new home build. The Marvin Ultimate collection offered the couple design flexibility. The final interior space is spacious, airy, and lets in plenty of natural light. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Ultimate Casement Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Awning Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Direct Glaze Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Swinging Door Design: Altura Architects Builder: Jade Mountain Builders Interior Design: Allard and Roberts Dealer: Asheville Window and Door

This stunning property won 1st place Custom Build of the Year 600-700K in the 2019 HIA CSR Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom Awards. The design takes advantage of the northern views overlooking Lake Macquarie, NSW. The upper level consists of the main bedroom and an open floor plan, allowing all living and entertaining spaces to maximise the views. An additional living space and undercover deck is positioned downstairs, offering a perfect retreat for the children.

The architect minimized the finish materials palette. Both roof and exterior siding are 4-way-interlocking machined aluminium shingles, installed by the same sub-contractor to maximize quality and productivity. Interior finishes and built-in furniture were limited to plywood and OSB (oriented strand board) with no decorative trimmings. The open floor plan reduced the need for doors and thresholds. In return, his rather stoic approach expanded client’s freedom for space use, an essential criterion for single family homes.

Aging in place has become more and more important for retirees. For a recently retired couple in Asheville, North Carolina, having a space for family and friends, an accessible floor plan, and maximizing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains were all priorities for their new home build. The Marvin Ultimate collection offered the couple design flexibility. The final interior space is spacious, airy, and lets in plenty of natural light. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Ultimate Casement Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Awning Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Direct Glaze Narrow Frame Window Ultimate Swinging Door Design: Altura Architects Builder: Jade Mountain Builders Interior Design: Allard and Roberts Dealer: Asheville Window and Door

The Notch House is a thoroughly modern home with nods to the New Hampshire wilderness. Architect Paul Lewandowski wanted to maximize the surrounding scenery. His final design was modular and glass-enclosed, allowing for views at every angle. The Marvin Modern collection “made all the difference in the world” for the homeowners. “It allowed us to get the floor to ceiling that we wanted,” they said. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Modern Direct Glaze Window Marvin Modern Casement Window Marvin Modern Awning Window Marvin Ultimate Sliding French Door Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door Architecture Firm: Paul Designs Project Dealer: Windows and Doors by Brownwell

Amber Roberts
Transitional bathroom photo in Singapore

Naomi Finlay
Bathroom - contemporary bathroom idea in Toronto

Organized Living Over The Door solutions are an affordable way to maximize every inch of space in a pantry, closet, mudroom and more. For pantries, this versatile solution is perfect for storing items that don't need to be refrigerated. Easy to install; simply attach the Over the Door Kit onto the door. The best part is that you do not have to put holes in your door to install and all tools are included for assembly. See more ways to use Over The Door solutions here: http://www.organizedliving.com/home/products/over-the-door/inspiration-gallery

Mid-sized transitional kids' white tile and stone tile marble floor, white floor, single-sink and wallpaper bathroom photo in Denver with shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, multicolored walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, white countertops, a niche and a built-in vanity

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

We breathed new life into this Hampton’s inspired kitchen with beautiful fresh materials in soft white and airy blue hues. We also redesigned the layout for optimal food prep, cooking and entertaining while keeping them separate from each other. By incorporating the nook area and removing the desk, we were able to give our client everything she ever wanted in a kitchen (see BEFORE pics). The lines and details of the custom hood and soft curved fretwork in the cabinetry create a sense of understated luxury and elegance. Oil rubbed bronze accents on the island legs, traditional lanterns and sconces, along with brushed nickel cabinet hardware complete the space. We also redesigned the fireplace and added built-ins to both sides for additional storage and unified, fresh new look.

For more photos of this project visit our website: https://wendyobrienid.com.

Photography by Valve Interactive: https://valveinteractive.com/