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It was also important for the white IKEA kitchen to have plenty of storage.
“This is a dining room/kitchen combination room, so we wanted to make sure there was ample room for both dining and cooking activities,” he says.
Therefore, featured throughout the kitchen in both the upper and base cabinetry is IKEA VEDDINGE cabinetry in white along with IKEA MAXIMERA drawers and IKEA UTRUSTA door fronts.
Combined with the stainless steel appliances, this creates a light yet warm feel; especially when set against the IKEA KASKER countertops in custom light gray with sleek concrete effect.
From a functional standpoint, there is enormous storage potential throughout.
There is storage above the refrigerator and along the upper perimeter to the electric range and accompanying range hood, and then on the opposite side as well. There is even a small, three-drawer base cabinet on the opposite side of the stainless steel refrigerator.
One standout element of the space is a clever IKEA “hack” using IKEA cabinetry retrofitted to conceal a washer-dryer combo set.
Justin notes this was originally the biggest obstacle of the kitchen design.
He explains: “We thought a washer/dryer was essential to the space, but we were really struggling with where exactly to put it and how to conceal it so that you weren’t staring at your laundry while eating breakfast.”
In addition, the type of cabinet needed was not a cabinet that IKEA standardly offers, so IKD came up with an IKEA hack that was both functional and stylish.
Specifically, the 80”(H) IKEA VEDDINGE cabinetry allows the washer-dryer to seamlessly blend into the layout; which maximizes the kitchen space.
Justin concludes: “We chose IKEA because IKEA’s price point is unbeatable for the quality. We liked that IKEA offered versatility and ease and we really liked that there is a whole industry of professionals that only deal with IKEA products. So they know precisely how to design for IKEA cabinets and build IKEA cabinets, etc.”
Having experienced the IKEA design and installation process, Justin shares some advice with other IKEA customers.
“I would recommend that folks not try to do everything themselves, such as design, demo, shop and build. Designing a kitchen is a lot of work. If you can afford it: seek assistance,” he says.
“We would also recommend using experienced installers who know IKEA cabinets in and out and can help with the details of your kitchen that make it look polished and complete. They also save time.”
To that end, since it was a rental their timeline for the IKEA kitchen to be completed was very tight.
“Our IKEA kitchen wasn’t a project we wanted stretched over six months. We wanted the whole project finished in several weeks [and we accomplished it],” he concludes.

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.

This waterfront, stainless steel pool-spa combo overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. The raised spa overflows into the pool creating movement and sound. Tucked into the side yard of the home, the placement maximizes yard space, while never compromising the view from the pool.
Find the right local pro for your project

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

The Innovation House girls’ bath adjoins one of the children’s bedrooms and closet playroom. This space needed to be a versatile yet still convey a blend of European and feminine charm. The design team of Innovation House chose a polished nickel faucet, wall scones and circular adjustable mirror to reflect light off of the elegant marble-like ceramic tile floors and white enameled cast iron vanity top.
To warm the space the walls were painted a sophistical purplish grey (Porter’s Gray Palomino) and playful pink (Porter’s Bare Pink) in the closet. To add whimsy for the room’s intended pint-sized resident, a playful semi-circular end table was selected for accessories and all of a girl’s beauty essentials.
The clean look of the girls’ bath continues with classy glass subway tiles in the shower. The functionality of the space was maximized by our design team’s decision to include built-in wall niches within the shower, curved shower rod, and kid-height towel hooks. The traditional finishes chosen for the space ensure that the design will remain relevant as any children within the home grow.
Sources: Vanity cabinet, sink top, plumbing fixtures, and mirror by Kohler; shower and floor tiles by Daltile; chandelier and sconces by Kichler; closet lighting by Kichler, closet carpet by Mohawk; closet artwork by Art Classics, LTD; baskets by Steele Canvas; paint by Certa Pro Painters.
Photo Credit: GreinTime 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.

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

Kitchen - large traditional u-shaped travertine floor and brown floor kitchen idea in Other with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, dark wood cabinets, granite countertops, gray backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Photo by: Bruce Saunders with Connectivity Group, LLC
Patio - large craftsman backyard stone patio idea in Charlotte with a fire pit and a pergola
Patio - large craftsman backyard stone patio idea in Charlotte with a fire pit and a pergola

John Evans
Inspiration for a huge timeless u-shaped dark wood floor kitchen remodel in Columbus with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, stone tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island
Inspiration for a huge timeless u-shaped dark wood floor kitchen remodel in Columbus with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, stone tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

Drawers of different sizes can be very versatile. It can store everything from your cutlery to your crockery!
Photo credits: Fauzi Anuar of http://www.zeeandmarina.com

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 was a new construction project with a custom design media bookcase surrounding the fireplace with coiffured ceiling detail and a comfortable floor plan while still looking very chic! Photography by John Carlson @ Carlson Productions

This busy executive with refined tastes requested a luxurious space with low-maintenance materials. To maximize shower space, the tub was removed and a pony wall was added to separate the vanity and shower. The half-wall created space for a hidden niche for personal products.
Photographer: Spencer Toy

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.

Brady Architectural Photography
GETTING IT RIGHT
Though the 1920s Mission Hills home was rich with Spanish Revival architectural details, a 1980s remodel did nothing to honor or even respect them.
Some two decades later, the current homeowners brought in award-winning interior designers Margaret Dean and Robert Longdyke to undo the damage by designing a new kitchen that was appropriate to the era and lived well with the grandeur of the rest of the house. The clients also wanted the kitchen to be multifunctional and up-to-date.
“Our first move,” Dean says, “was to reconfigure the space, which included the kitchen, a small broom closet and, in back, a guest bedroom and hallway.”
She converted the closet to a passageway to the bedroom, redid the bedroom into a small sitting room with refrigerated wine room, and closed off the bedroom and exterior doors to make room for a boot-bench niche.
With space planning complete, Dean and Longdyke focused on design details.
“The colors were inspired from the home’s original tile and trompe l’oeil,” Dean says. “The alderwood cabinet doors with teal and yellow accents mesh perfectly with the ambience of the home. The cabinet door profile mimics the panel of the front door.
“Robert Longdyke was instrumental in the selection of products, color scheme and accessories,” Dean says. “With over 45 years in the interior design field, he has accumulated a wealth of knowledge that was vital to the outcome.”
Dean redesigned the existing pantry to maximize storage options and added a hutch off the breakfast nook for glassware, fine china and beverages. The hutch includes a base refrigerator with custom grillwork door panels. To keep the symmetry, the designers repeated the grillwork to face another cabinet on the opposite side of the hutch.
They sealed a “small, ugly skylight” with a teal-colored soffit that adds height to the eight-foot ceiling. “This also allowed for a spectacular antique light to be hung. Design of the new round chandelier above the table was inspired by the vintage rectangular light over the island.”
The tile work on the hood and backsplash reflects the colors, tone and whimsy of other areas in the home.

A tricky angle to get this photo due to the room size, but the storage is abundant. Drawers and cubbies keep his everyday items organized. Double hanging maximizes the vertical space. And the custom hat and shoe rack (not shown) fit this client's needs perfectly.
Space planning and cabinetry design by Jennifer Howard, JWH
Photography by Mick Hales, Greenworld Productions

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

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Alustra® Silhouette® Window Shadings PowerRise® 2.1 with Platinum™ Technology
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Room: Kitchen
Room Styles: Transitional
Available from Accent Window Fashions LLC
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Maximize and transform the rooftop living space on a green roof, rooftop, patio surface or green roof terrace surface. EasyTurf artificial grass provides the best green roof surface product available. Engineered to be the most durable, best draining and most realistic green roof artificial turf on the market.
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