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!)

KORA.The Kora and Dolce basins are an elegant and luxurious bathroom centerpiece. Inspirational Design and beauty combined with modern day practicality and use. Pure white or black, each item is individually handcrafted by Valley’s artisans in Mission, BC. Descriptions: - Matte pearl white - White hidden linear drain cover included - Drain sold separately - 100% handmade in Canada Available: - Colour: Black / White - No faucet hole / Single hole centerset faucet drilling - Colour matching NEW

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Award winning architecture and development company Design Storey have specified a Kährs ash wood floor design for their Cotswold property renovation project in Chipping Campden. The project, which appeared on Channel 4's Best Laid Plans, celebrates the mid-century and Arts & Crafts heritage of the house. Occupying a large corner plot, the property was re-designed to make the most of its aspect and orientation. Design Storey switched the focus of the house by removing the single garage and replacing it with a contemporary single-storey kitchen, dining and living area, where Kährs' ash wood flooring runs throughout the open plan design. Design Storey architect Lydia Robinson says "we chose a Kährs ash flooring design as we were looking for a light wood flooring which reflected our Scandinavian-inspired interiors. We were keen to specify ash as this is the native wood species that is most prevalent in the Cotswolds, yet it is not as frequently found in the interiors. Using ash enabled us to tie the flooring in with the timber for the doors, bespoke joinery and stair treads." As a result of the renovation, the 1950's house has been revitalised as a contemporary four bed home, with a modern yet practical interior. The project has been shortlisted for Design through Innovation in the 2018 RICS Awards, which showcases the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. Kährs' range includes a selection of sustainable ash wood flooring designs, ranging from on-trend light grey hues to classic warm, natural beige shades. The designs feature in Kährs' new 2018 Design Stories brochure, available at any local Kährs dealer, or by request. Image: Design Storey

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

C. L. Fry Photo
Eat-in kitchen - small contemporary galley ceramic tile eat-in kitchen idea in Austin with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, granite countertops, glass tile backsplash and no island

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Award winning architecture and development company Design Storey have specified a Kährs ash wood floor design for their Cotswold property renovation project in Chipping Campden. The project, which appeared on Channel 4's Best Laid Plans, celebrates the mid-century and Arts & Crafts heritage of the house. Occupying a large corner plot, the property was re-designed to make the most of its aspect and orientation. Design Storey switched the focus of the house by removing the single garage and replacing it with a contemporary single-storey kitchen, dining and living area, where Kährs' ash wood flooring runs throughout the open plan design. Design Storey architect Lydia Robinson says "we chose a Kährs ash flooring design as we were looking for a light wood flooring which reflected our Scandinavian-inspired interiors. We were keen to specify ash as this is the native wood species that is most prevalent in the Cotswolds, yet it is not as frequently found in the interiors. Using ash enabled us to tie the flooring in with the timber for the doors, bespoke joinery and stair treads." As a result of the renovation, the 1950's house has been revitalised as a contemporary four bed home, with a modern yet practical interior. The project has been shortlisted for Design through Innovation in the 2018 RICS Awards, which showcases the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. Kährs' range includes a selection of sustainable ash wood flooring designs, ranging from on-trend light grey hues to classic warm, natural beige shades. The designs feature in Kährs' new 2018 Design Stories brochure, available at any local Kährs dealer, or by request. Image: Design Storey

Even a basement kitchen can have all the fixtures. Dark wood cabinets meet stainless steel appliances to create a modern and practical space. Cornerstone Builders & Associates, LLC

Old world look with modern building practices, including unique water proofing measures
Home design - mediterranean home design idea in Houston

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.

Using design expertise, proper engineering and modern building practices, Elite Landscaping transformed an outdated, crumbling concrete pool and landscape into a fresh, award-winning masterpiece. Highlights of this outdoor living space and pool renovation include: Repaving the entire pool deck with travertine. Adding a 13-person year-round spa. Building a pool house with 20’ open cedar-beam ceilings over the men’s and women's changing rooms. Expanding and reinforcing an outdoor deck, finishing the under-deck ceiling and building a full-service, outdoor bar beneath it. Additionally, the Elite team designed a multi-level patio with sunken fire pit, flanked by natural boulders and flagstone paths. The pièce de résistance, however, is the custom-concrete waterfall and grotto, with natural interior skylights and customized water features.