This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Photography: Eric Roth Photo

A modern guest suite comes alive with colorful accents in the form of a multi-tone rug, punchy pillows, and whimsical modern art against a background of serene white Jim Bartsch

Mid-sized beach style bathroom photo in Austin with white cabinets, multicolored walls, an undermount sink and shaker cabinets

Photo: Angela Flournoy © 2013 Houzz
Example of a danish mudroom design in Dallas

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Photography Eric Roth Photo

Mali Azima
Inspiration for a large contemporary light wood floor dining room remodel in Atlanta with white walls

Kim Cornelison Photography
Example of a transitional medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen design in Minneapolis with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Photography: Eric Roth Photo

Our designer has achieved a stylish look by combining dark cabinets and light-colored marbles.

Kährs Chevron – chic, classic looks with a modern twist. Kährs has introduced a new patterned wood floor collection for Spring 2016. Offered in four on-trend colour tones, new Chevron creates a classical parquet-look with speed and ease. Matching frameboards can then be used around the edge of a room, to create a border for the stunning design. Unlike traditional parquet staves which are glued down piece-by-piece, Kährs’ Chevron has a modern, plank format – measuring 1848x300x15mm - which is fast to install. The angled chevron pattern and ingenious ‘parallelogram’ short ends create the continuous V-shaped design, which is further emphasized by a bevelled edge. All boards are brushed to create a tactile lived-in look, which complements the warm white, weathered grey, classic brown and dark brown colour tones and the lively oak graining. Kährs Chevron has a multi-layered construction, made up of a sustainable oak surface layer and a plywood core. This eco-friendly, engineered format makes the floor more stable and ideal for installation over underfloor heating.

Preview First Photography
Inspiration for a rustic bathroom remodel in San Diego

Introducing the Boston Daybed, a luxurious addition to Skyline Design's esteemed Boston Collection. Designed by Santiago Sevillano, this daybed represents the pinnacle of outdoor relaxation and elegance. Measuring 63''W x 63''D x 26''H and weighing 74 kg, it's a spacious and inviting piece perfect for lounging in style. The daybed features a durable, powder-coated aluminum frame intertwined with light gray polystrand strap rope, creating a stunning visual appeal. It comes with plush Sunbrella Canvas cushions, offering not just a place to relax but a haven of unparalleled comfort and serenity for any outdoor space.

View from Dining room to pasture beyond at the Lincoln Net Zero House, photography by Dan Cutrona
Large trendy medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen/dining room combo photo in Boston with beige walls

Introducing the Calixto Side Table with Glass from Skyline Design, a masterpiece of outdoor furniture designed by the illustrious Noel Royo. This table, measuring 22''W x 22''D x 20''H and weighing 15 lbs, is a fusion of functionality and sophisticated style. It features a robust powder-coated aluminum frame, beautifully interwoven with an exquisite Nigerian Twist Hyacinth (HDPE) weave. The table is topped with a sleek, tempered glass surface, offering a perfect blend of durability and elegance. Ideal for enhancing outdoor lounging areas, this side table not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a touch of modern charm to any setting.

Introducing the Calixto Daybed by Skyline Design, a masterpiece crafted under the creative vision of designer Noel Royo. Measuring 63''W x 63''D x 26''H and weighing 74 lbs, this daybed is a luxurious addition to any outdoor space. Its design features a sophisticated Nigerian Twist Hyacinth (HDPE) weave and a durable, coated aluminum frame. The daybed offers a perfect retreat with its ample, plush cushions covered in Sunbrella Canvas fabric. Ideal for lounging and relaxation, the Calixto Daybed combines style and comfort, creating a personalized outdoor oasis that captures the essence of indulgent comfort and modern elegance.

Transitional living room photo in Atlanta with a standard fireplace and a plaster fireplace

The bedroom is shaped by a dramatic pitched wood ceiling and exposed timber frame, whose dark tones form a protective canopy above an otherwise light and restrained interior. Whitewashed plank walls, dark floorboards, crisp white bedding, and an upholstered bed establish a calm neutral palette, accented by warm brass lighting, antique wood furniture, and small botanical artwork. A black-framed window introduces soft daylight and a measured graphic contrast, while integrated doors preserve the room’s uncluttered composition. The design brings together barn-inspired architecture, Scandinavian restraint, and relaxed country furnishings. Despite the strength of the overhead structure, the space feels serene, intimate, and quietly luxurious.

The wider door detail reveals how the dark frame divides the glazing into measured rectangular sections around the long vertical pull. Its narrow profiles allow the low tan seating, blue-gray throw, and bright window beyond to remain visually connected to the adjoining space. Pale wood flooring at the bottom of the view extends that continuity across the threshold. Daylight and reflections animate the glass, while the wrapped handle introduces a darker, more tactile line close to the viewer. The combination has a clear contemporary character, balancing an architectural boundary with an open view. The lounge would remain part of the apartment’s visual life even when seen through the glazed panels.

This twin guest room was designed to feel warm, welcoming and quietly uplifting within the contemporary architecture of the home. The sloping ceiling and rooflights bring in beautiful natural light, while the warm terracotta feature wall adds depth, character and a cosy sense of enclosure behind the beds. Soft upholstered headboards, layered white bedding, blush-toned throws and patterned cushions create a calm and comfortable space for guests. The bespoke curtains introduce a subtle pattern and connect beautifully with the warm accent colour, while natural timber doors and flooring add softness and warmth. The result is a bright, elegant and restful guest bedroom that feels fresh and contemporary, but still full of comfort and personality.