Search results for "Maximizing productivity" in Home Design Ideas

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Large craftsman gray two-story wood exterior home idea in Jacksonville
Large craftsman gray two-story wood exterior home idea in Jacksonville

A serene, spa-inspired bathroom that blends natural light, organic textures, and understated luxury. A freestanding soaking tub, airy glass shower, and custom double vanity are complemented by soft neutrals, botanical details, and a sculptural driftwood fixture- creating a calm, nature - connected retreat.

This modern desert home comes courtesy of Kevin B. Howard Architects in Tucson. Utilizing products from Western Window Systems including Series 600 Multi-Slide and Sliding Glass Doors and Window Walls, Series 700 Casement Windows, and Series 900 Hinged Doors, the architect, along with Tucson-based builder The Gallery, integrated the contemporary design of the home with the landscape. The result is a maximized indoor/outdoor experience that blurs the distinction between the dwelling and its desert surroundings.
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Plenty of drawers, even on the back of the Island facing the Family Room maximize storage and convenience.
Space planning and custom cabinetry by Jennifer Howard, JWH
Photography by Mick Hales, Greenworld Productions

Recently, TaskRabbit challenged a group of 10 Taskers to build a Tiny House in the middle of Manhattan in just 72 hours – all for a good cause.
Building a fully outfitted tiny house in 3 days was a tall order – a build like this often takes months – but we set out to prove the power of collaboration, showing the kind of progress that can be made when people come together, bringing their best insights, skills and creativity to achieve something that seems impossible.
It was quite a week. New York was wonderful (and quite lovely, despite a bit of rain), our Taskers were incredible, and TaskRabbit’s Tiny House came together in record time, due to the planning, dedication and hard work of all involved.
A Symbol for Change
The TaskRabbit Tiny House was auctioned off with 100% of the proceeds going to our partner, Community Solutions, a national nonprofit helping communities take on complex social challenges – issues like homelessness, unemployment and health inequity – through collaboration and creative problem solving. This Tiny House was envisioned as a small symbol of the change that is possible when people have the right tools and opportunities to work together. Through our three-day build, our Taskers proved that amazing things can happen when we put our hearts into creating substantive change in our communities.
The Winning Bid
We’re proud to report that we were able to raise $26,600 to support Community Solutions’ work. Sarah, a lovely woman from New Hampshire, placed the winning bid – and it’s nice to know our tiny home is in good hands.
#ATinyTask: Behind the Scenes
The Plans
A lot of time and effort went into making sure this Tiny Home was as efficient, cozy and welcoming as possible. Our master planners, designer Lesley Morphy and TaskRabbit Creative Director Scott Smith, maximized every square inch in the little house with comfort and style in mind, utilizing a lofted bed, lofted storage, a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower, a compost toilet, and custom details throughout. There’s a surprising amount of built-in storage in the kitchen, while a conscious decision was made to keep the living space open so you could actually exist comfortably without feeling cramped.
The Build
Our Taskers worked long, hard shifts while our team made sure they were well fed, hydrated and in good spirits. The team brought amazing energy and we couldn’t be prouder of the way they worked together. Stay tuned, as we’ll be highlighting more of our Tiny House Taskers’ stories in coming days – they were so great that we want to make sure all of you get to know them better.
The Final Product
Behold, the completed Tiny House! For more photos, be sure to check out our Facebook page.
This was an incredibly inspiring project, and we really enjoyed watching the Tiny House come to life right in the middle of Manhattan. It was amazing to see what our Taskers are capable of, and we’re so glad we were able to support Community Solutions and help fight homelessness, unemployment and health inequity with #ATinyTask.

This classic family home on a quiet cul de sac in desirable Foxcroft just got a facelift. The clients worked with Advanced Renovations and Lisa Britt Designs to gut the kitchen and rework the overall flow.
Besides the beautiful kitchen, our favorite element was flip flopping the dining room and den (see before and after photos within album). This allowed our clients, who love to entertain, easier access to kitchen when serving in the dining room. Also, it maximized use of the existing built-in cabinetry for their large sliver and china collections.
Jim Schmid Photography

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!)

A lovely Mediterranean piece -- With its Bronze finish and Seedy Glass accent, this outdoor wall light will be a perfect piece in your porch. And if you are a fan of Mediterranean stylish, there is no reason why should not get this for your home.
Super strong and resistant -- This wall light is made with Vivex, a super strong material twice the durability of resin. This also makes the lamp non-corrosive and UV-resistant.
3-year warranty -- A 1-year warranty should be good enough. But 3 years is just beyond great. This should serve as an assurance that what you are getting is guaranteed to work well and last for years.
Unbelievably low price tag -- All these features with an affordable price tag? It might sound too good to be true, but believe it. You will never find a better deal anywhere else.
Maxim Lighting's Dover VX Collection is made with Vivex, a material twice the strength of resin, is non-corrosive, UV resistant and backed with a 3-Year Limited Warranty. Dover VX features our Bronze finish and Seedy glass.

Like a constellation that sparkles in the night, the Glimmer collection features frames of rings expertly crafted and finished in choice of Polished Silver or Bronze. The rings are adorned with hundreds of clear Beveled Crystal beads which are installed one at a time by hand to create a masterpiece of lighting illuminated by xenon lamps
Technical Specifications
Manufacturer Maxim
Item # 39877BCPS
Number of Bulbs 3
Finish Silver
Height 10
Width 11
Wattage (Max) 40
Wire Length 180
Energy Star N
Product Family Glimmer
UPC 783209092990
Bulbs Included Y
Bulb Type G9 Xenon
Finish Plated Silver
Style Contemporary
Shade Description Glass
Glass Beveled Crystal
Canopy Height 0.98
Canopy Width 5.11
Dimmable Standard
Lumens 2400
Canopy Length 5.11
Delivery This item is currently out of stock.

Maxim Lighting's Carriage House VX (Vivex) Collection is a durable outdoor lighting option. Designed to withstand forces of a mild hurricane, these fixtures are a lighting industry leader for outdoor applications.
Vivex, a material twice the strength of resin, is non-corrosive, UV resistant, and backed with a 3-Year Limited Warranty.
Carriage House VX features Oriental Bronze finish and Water Glass.

This Calistoga 1-Light Outdoor Wall Mount by Maxim features an Adobe finish and unique design - a great complement to add charm to you exteriors.
Pictured next to an endless pool and a lit fire pit, these outdoor wall lanterns complete the atmosphere of party - and home. Lights like these, durable and cool, enhance any vibe.

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!)

Revamping the laundry room brings a blend of functionality and style to an often-overlooked space. Upgrading appliances to energy-efficient models enhances efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
Custom cabinetry and shelving solutions maximize storage for detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry essentials, promoting an organized and clutter-free environment. Consideration of ergonomic design, such as a folding counter or ironing station, streamlines tasks and adds a touch of convenience.
Thoughtful lighting choices, perhaps with LED fixtures or natural light sources, contribute to a bright and inviting atmosphere. Flooring upgrades for durability, such as water-resistant tiles or easy-to-clean materials, can withstand the demands of laundry tasks.
Ultimately, a remodeled laundry room not only elevates its practical functionality but also transforms it into a well-designed, efficient space that makes the often-dreaded chore of laundry a more pleasant experience.

Our clients wanted to modernize their 1980's home, focusing on reimagining the main floor. We used warm palettes, natural elements, and clean lines while maximizing natural light and preserving key architectural features to create a welcoming, functional space.
This bright and beautiful workspace is a sanctuary of productivity. Sleek, modern furniture complements open and closed shelving for seamless storage. A cozy window seat offers a tranquil retreat, balancing work and relaxation effortlessly.

This dual desk workspace system keeps productivity and space maximized.
Home office - traditional home office idea in Nashville
Home office - traditional home office idea in Nashville

A beautiful Transitional kitchen design with Traditional elements. A decorative wood hood with tile insert details was incorporated over the range. X mullion stacked upper cabinetry with glass and LED lighting highlights this impressive feature. Magic corner & corner drawers base storage cabinets were used to maximize storage in the base corner locations. Existing drywall vent cover & wire rack closet pantry was removed and cabinet pantries were cleverly used to house vent and allow a storage of narrow items around the vent while full depth storage was accessible by the old closet area. Bar storage drawers were added to the wine cooler area. Fridge & Freezer were enclosed with cabinetry materials and an added narrow pantry for spice storage. Products used were Miralis cabinetry, Fully Integrated Liebherr Fridge & Freezer, LED cabinetry & ceiling lighting, Silestone Altair quartz tops, C-Tech Lucerne Ice White Quartzo sink, Vent a Hood blower and Walker Zanger vintage Oyster backsplashes that added a beautiful flavor to the kitchen. Photography: Rebekah E. Myers

Play room storage maximized with oversized shelving. Great use of striped bins, IKEA baskets, plastic bins and chalk board labels.
Playroom - traditional gender-neutral playroom idea in St Louis
Playroom - traditional gender-neutral playroom idea in St Louis

The Craftsman fireplace sets a new standard for wood burning beauty, performance and convenience. The bedrock of the Astria wood burning family, the Craftsman features the industry’s finest, most realistic textured refractory brick liners. Hidden screen pockets maximize the viewing area of the fireplace. An easy access damper handle and position lock outside air controls support consistent performance. The Craftsman is designed with gas line knockouts to allow homeowners the option of installing an Astria gas log set, with all gas connections and controls hidden out of sight.
Aesthetics
Realistic textured refractory brick liner
Clean face and louvered models available.
Screens retract into hidden screen pockets for a clean elegant look.
Heavy duty log grate.
Glass doors available with black, Brushed brass or platinum trim.
Comfort
Radiant heat delivers relaxing warmth in the room environment.
Outside combustion air kit available.
Performance
Fully insulated firebox (on select models) for increased performance in colder climates.
Easy access damper with position lock outside air controls.
8” double wall wood-burning chimney.
Durable textured powder coat finish.
Fan kit available (for circulating models only).
Gas log ready.
Available with PureFire Technology
The Craftsman CAT comes with all of the great features of the Craftsman and the added benefits of PureFire technology! PureFire is a passive catalyst system that reduces particulate emissions by approximately 75%. PureFire virtually eliminates carbon monoxide (including CO from gas logs) and is maintenance free, no cleaning or special care required!

Water, water everywhere! These Harvey Classic vinyl windows maximize the view from this waterfront home by sharing a common jamb - rather than having to install 3 separate windows side by side, these units are mulled together. This cuts down on the amount of frame space between the windows and gives you more glass and light.
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