Search results for "Maximizing space" in Home Design Ideas

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Example of a small transitional boy dark wood floor kids' room design in New York with gray walls
Example of a small transitional boy dark wood floor kids' room design in New York with gray walls

Example of a transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen design in Dallas with a farmhouse sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops
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Entryway - mid-sized transitional entryway idea in New York with gray walls

This stylish walk-in closet features custom cabinetry, ample storage with sleek drawers and shelving, and a cozy round ottoman. A modern light fixture adds elegance, while the neutral color palette and soft textures create a serene, organized space. It’s the perfect blend of functionality and luxury for any home.

Beautiful snowy white, open concept, Plain & Fancy kitchen in a picturesque Pocono Mountain chalet. Transitional shaker style, recessed panel, custom cabinets with farmhouse sink and marble countertops. The backsplash is gray ceramic subway tile and the accent cabinets towards the ceiling have glass front mullions to allow accent lighting to illuminate the custom crown moulding. Focal point is the gray island which is set off by the beautiful leaf style glass tiles and dual height rounded marble countertop. Wood plank flooring adds warm to the overall design. Butler's pantry provides extra storage and prep area for entertaining and family gatherings.

Photo: A Darling Felicity Photography © 2015 Houzz
Living room - mid-sized eclectic enclosed medium tone wood floor living room idea in Seattle with white walls
Living room - mid-sized eclectic enclosed medium tone wood floor living room idea in Seattle with white walls

Faced with extensive water damage to their home, the Patel’s turned to Cantoni designer Andrea Petor to infuse new life into their family’s beloved weekend retreat in Montgomery, Texas. Balancing the client’s minimalist wants with their love of hosting, Andrea created a cohesive design to accommodate their frequent guests and large extended family. Beginning with the kitchen remodel, Andrea worked with the Patel’s to identify the best layout for the space, understanding it would be used regularly for entertaining. To maximize storage space, Andrea designed custom floor to ceiling cabinetry finished in high gloss white lacquer. She selected Miele optic white appliances to enhance the sleek design. Andrea had a custom dining table built into the island to provide ample seating and ensure the entire family could enjoy meals together. The kitchen’s monochromatic color palette was carried throughout the interiors allowing the home’s beautiful waterfront views to take center stage. Adding richness and texture to each room, Andrea selected sculptural, modern furnishings to complete the space and bring the Patel’s vision to life.

Our “challenge” facing these empty nesters was what to do with that one last lonely bedroom once the kids had left the nest. Actually not so much of a challenge as this client knew exactly what she wanted for her growing collection of new and vintage handbags and shoes! Carpeting was removed and wood floors were installed to minimize dust.
We added a UV film to the windows as an initial layer of protection against fading, then the Hermes fabric “Equateur Imprime” for the window treatments. (A hint of what is being collected in this space).
Our goal was to utilize every inch of this space. Our floor to ceiling cabinetry maximized storage on two walls while on the third wall we removed two doors of a closet and added mirrored doors with drawers beneath to match the cabinetry. This built-in maximized space for shoes with roll out shelving while allowing for a chandelier to be centered perfectly above.

Inspiration for a contemporary walk-in closet remodel in Cincinnati with open cabinets and white cabinets

Deck container garden - small contemporary backyard deck container garden idea in New York

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
For many, extra time at home during COVID left them wanting more from their homes. Whether you realized the shortcomings of your space or simply wanted to combat boredom, a well-designed and functional home was no longer a want, it became a need. Tina found herself wanting more from her Old Irving Park home and reached out to The Kitchen Studio about adding function to her kitchen to make the most of the available real estate.
At the end of the day, there is nothing better than returning home to a bright and happy space you love. And this kitchen wasn’t that for Tina. Dark and dated, with a palette from the past and features that didn’t make the most of the available square footage, this remodel required vision and a fresh approach to the space. Lead designer, Stephanie Cole’s main design goal was better flow, while adding greater functionality with organized storage, accessible open shelving, and an overall sense of cohesion with the adjoining family room.
The original kitchen featured a large pizza oven, which was rarely used, yet its footprint limited storage space. The nearby pantry had become a catch-all, lacking the organization needed in the home. The initial plan was to keep the pizza oven, but eventually Tina realized she preferred the design possibilities that came from removing this cumbersome feature, with the goal of adding function throughout the upgraded and elevated space. Eliminating the pantry added square footage and length to the kitchen for greater function and more storage. This redesigned space reflects how she lives and uses her home, as well as her love for entertaining.
The kitchen features a classic, clean, and timeless palette. White cabinetry, with brass and bronze finishes, contrasts with rich wood flooring, and lets the large, deep blue island in Woodland’s custom color Harbor – a neutral, yet statement color – draw your eye.
The kitchen was the main priority. In addition to updating and elevating this space, Tina wanted to maximize what her home had to offer. From moving the location of the patio door and eliminating a window to removing an existing closet in the mudroom and the cluttered pantry, the kitchen footprint grew. Once the floorplan was set, it was time to bring cohesion to her home, creating connection between the kitchen and surrounding spaces.
The color palette carries into the mudroom, where we added beautiful new cabinetry, practical bench seating, and accessible hooks, perfect for guests and everyday living. The nearby bar continues the aesthetic, with stunning Carrara marble subway tile, hints of brass and bronze, and a design that further captures the vibe of the kitchen.
Every home has its unique design challenges. But with a fresh perspective and a bit of creativity, there is always a way to give the client exactly what they want [and need]. In this particular kitchen, the existing soffits and high slanted ceilings added a layer of complexity to the lighting layout and upper perimeter cabinets.
While a space needs to look good, it also needs to function well. This meant making the most of the height of the room and accounting for the varied ceiling features, while also giving Tina everything she wanted and more. Pendants and task lighting paired with an abundance of natural light amplify the bright aesthetic. The cabinetry layout and design compliments the soffits with subtle profile details that bring everything together. The tile selections add visual interest, drawing the eye to the focal area above the range. Glass-doored cabinets further customize the space and give the illusion of even more height within the room.
While her family may be grown and out of the house, Tina was focused on adding function without sacrificing a stunning aesthetic and dreamy finishes that make the kitchen the gathering place of any home. It was time to love her kitchen again, and if you’re wondering what she loves most, it’s the niche with glass door cabinetry and open shelving for display paired with the marble mosaic backsplash over the range and complimenting hood. Each of these features is a stunning point of interest within the kitchen – both brag-worthy additions to a perimeter layout that previously felt limited and lacking.
Whether your remodel is the result of special needs in your home or simply the excitement of focusing your energy on creating a fun new aesthetic, we are here for it. We love a good challenge because there is always a way to make a space better – adding function and beauty simultaneously.

Photography by Jesus Fuentes
Great room - mid-sized contemporary ceramic tile great room idea in Other with gray walls and no fireplace
Great room - mid-sized contemporary ceramic tile great room idea in Other with gray walls and no fireplace

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Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
For many, extra time at home during COVID left them wanting more from their homes. Whether you realized the shortcomings of your space or simply wanted to combat boredom, a well-designed and functional home was no longer a want, it became a need. Tina found herself wanting more from her Old Irving Park home and reached out to The Kitchen Studio about adding function to her kitchen to make the most of the available real estate.
At the end of the day, there is nothing better than returning home to a bright and happy space you love. And this kitchen wasn’t that for Tina. Dark and dated, with a palette from the past and features that didn’t make the most of the available square footage, this remodel required vision and a fresh approach to the space. Lead designer, Stephanie Cole’s main design goal was better flow, while adding greater functionality with organized storage, accessible open shelving, and an overall sense of cohesion with the adjoining family room.
The original kitchen featured a large pizza oven, which was rarely used, yet its footprint limited storage space. The nearby pantry had become a catch-all, lacking the organization needed in the home. The initial plan was to keep the pizza oven, but eventually Tina realized she preferred the design possibilities that came from removing this cumbersome feature, with the goal of adding function throughout the upgraded and elevated space. Eliminating the pantry added square footage and length to the kitchen for greater function and more storage. This redesigned space reflects how she lives and uses her home, as well as her love for entertaining.
The kitchen features a classic, clean, and timeless palette. White cabinetry, with brass and bronze finishes, contrasts with rich wood flooring, and lets the large, deep blue island in Woodland’s custom color Harbor – a neutral, yet statement color – draw your eye.
The kitchen was the main priority. In addition to updating and elevating this space, Tina wanted to maximize what her home had to offer. From moving the location of the patio door and eliminating a window to removing an existing closet in the mudroom and the cluttered pantry, the kitchen footprint grew. Once the floorplan was set, it was time to bring cohesion to her home, creating connection between the kitchen and surrounding spaces.
The color palette carries into the mudroom, where we added beautiful new cabinetry, practical bench seating, and accessible hooks, perfect for guests and everyday living. The nearby bar continues the aesthetic, with stunning Carrara marble subway tile, hints of brass and bronze, and a design that further captures the vibe of the kitchen.
Every home has its unique design challenges. But with a fresh perspective and a bit of creativity, there is always a way to give the client exactly what they want [and need]. In this particular kitchen, the existing soffits and high slanted ceilings added a layer of complexity to the lighting layout and upper perimeter cabinets.
While a space needs to look good, it also needs to function well. This meant making the most of the height of the room and accounting for the varied ceiling features, while also giving Tina everything she wanted and more. Pendants and task lighting paired with an abundance of natural light amplify the bright aesthetic. The cabinetry layout and design compliments the soffits with subtle profile details that bring everything together. The tile selections add visual interest, drawing the eye to the focal area above the range. Glass-doored cabinets further customize the space and give the illusion of even more height within the room.
While her family may be grown and out of the house, Tina was focused on adding function without sacrificing a stunning aesthetic and dreamy finishes that make the kitchen the gathering place of any home. It was time to love her kitchen again, and if you’re wondering what she loves most, it’s the niche with glass door cabinetry and open shelving for display paired with the marble mosaic backsplash over the range and complimenting hood. Each of these features is a stunning point of interest within the kitchen – both brag-worthy additions to a perimeter layout that previously felt limited and lacking.
Whether your remodel is the result of special needs in your home or simply the excitement of focusing your energy on creating a fun new aesthetic, we are here for it. We love a good challenge because there is always a way to make a space better – adding function and beauty simultaneously.

Just because this white kitchen is small it still packs a punch. This "U shaped" Kitchen doesn't have any room for mistakes. Using a farmhouse sink, garden window, and a drawer dishwasher we maximized the space to its fullest potential. The Cambria Quartz countertops and marble mosaic backsplash keeps the tiny kitchen feeling light and open.
Designer completed by Danielle Perkins of Danielle Interior Design and Decor.
Maximizing the space you live in with Storage, Style and Function.
Photography by Taylor Abeel Photography.

Sponsored
Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

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!)

Our goal on this project was to make the main floor of this lovely early 20th century home in a popular Vancouver neighborhood work for a growing family of four. We opened up the space, both literally and aesthetically, with windows and skylights, an efficient layout, some carefully selected furniture pieces and a soft colour palette that lends a light and playful feel to the space. Our clients can hardly believe that their once small, dark, uncomfortable main floor has become a bright, functional and beautiful space where they can now comfortably host friends and hang out as a family. Interior Design by Lori Steeves of Simply Home Decorating Inc. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography.

This sleek, modern kitchen balances functionality and aesthetics with clean lines, minimalistic design, and state-of-the-art finishes. Custom cabinetry in matte finishes, integrated appliances, and quartz countertops create a seamless, sophisticated look. The open layout maximizes space and light, making it ideal for entertaining, while a spacious island serves as both a culinary workspace and a social hub. Thoughtfully placed LED lighting and smart storage solutions enhance convenience and ambiance, resulting in a streamlined yet inviting kitchen that’s perfect for both everyday living and special gatherings.
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