The new Milgard Tuscany window above the sink, with its dual glaze, ensures energy efficiency while offering a picturesque view. The interior walls, painted in a clean white, further accentuate the kitchen island, painted in a soft baby blue, harmonizing with the light blue tiles, and creating a visually pleasing palette. This remodel isn't just about aesthetics; functionality is at its core. The kitchen island, seating four comfortably, is equipped with multiple outlets, perfect for the modern, multitasking San Jose household. The choice of matte brushed nickel for the cabinet knobs and pulls unifies the kitchen's design elements with a touch of understated elegance. A significant architectural change in this remodel is the removal of the wall separating the great room and kitchen. This strategic decision by May Construction has transformed the space into an open floor plan, fostering a sense of togetherness and fluidity. An exposed beam adorns the ceiling, subtly defining the kitchen and great room areas while maintaining an open, airy feel. May Construction has masterfully transformed a once segmented and dim space into an open, light-filled haven of modern luxury and efficiency. This San Jose kitchen and great room remodel is a testament to their commitment to quality, functionality, and aesthetic excellence. For those in San Jose and beyond looking to rejuvenate their homes, May Construction remains a beacon of innovation and craftsmanship in home remodeling.

Wild View Farm includes a new “Forever home” (we deconstructed an existing house with a 90% landfill diversion rate), and enhancements to several working barns. The 80 acre site was an original homestead farm from the 1890’s. Both its buildings and soil had become severely degraded. The owners are working to holistically restore this property and make it a model of modern regenerative farming. They are planting hundreds of trees, re-introducing livestock and working with Dryland Agroecology Research and High Plains Permaculture to restore the soil. The -51 HERS rated home is not just energy-efficient - it’s a model of “Regenerative design”. The deep green house design included multiple challenges – foremost was how to create a Passive Solar design that also took full advantage of the massive views to the West. We solved it with an L shaped building that optimized passive and active solar strategies on the south face, then actively protected the western facade with a giant covered porch and tuned glazing. The home’s leading-edge energy package includes a Ground source heat pump, a large roof-mounted solar PV array, battery back-up, EV chargers, and Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV), Energy Star Appliances and windows, a robust foam insulation shell and LED lighting. We also endeavored to craft a modern day interpretation of the farmhouse typology, with a low-slung simple gable-roofed form that would feel like it’s always been there. The exterior material palette of limestone, cementitious stucco and heavy timber gives it a rich Colorado Modern Farmhouse feel. The home is full of custom details like walls of vaulted glass to capture the sweeping mountain views, an AI Smart Home control system, a sleeping loft for kids and guests, a hard-working Butler’s Pantry, a gourmet outdoor kitchen, a pool & spa, a cozy office nook for reading, and a lovely built-in bench for morning coffee. Phase 2 of this project will include a Farmworker ADU and a full renovation of the existing historic barn. Built by Skycastle Construction. Interior Design by Kimball Modern and Rodwin Architecture. Landscaping by EDI. Photography by Dane Cronin Photo

BEFORE Picture showing soffits, original cabinetry, which we kept the base cabinet boxes & replaced the doors & hinges, drawer heads, drawer boxes guides, in order to not disturb the new granite countertops, sink, and faucet. The microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher, were the only other items saved and re-used in the new kitchen.

The cabana at 127 Augusta was designed as a luxurious all-season outdoor living space that seamlessly blends modern architecture, comfort, and functionality. Featuring expansive black-framed glass doors, polished concrete floors, warm natural wood cabinetry, and a sleek contemporary fireplace, this custom cabana delivers a refined indoor-outdoor experience with a clean, modern aesthetic. Inside, the open-concept layout was thoughtfully designed for entertaining and relaxation. Floor-to-ceiling glazing floods the interior with natural light while creating uninterrupted views of the pool and surrounding landscape. The custom lounge area is anchored by a modern fireplace feature wall, adding warmth and ambiance during cooler evenings and extending the usability of the space throughout multiple seasons. The integrated kitchenette and entertainment area feature custom wood millwork, built-in appliances, and minimalist finishes that complement the cabana’s contemporary design. Carefully selected materials, including polished concrete flooring and matte black architectural accents, provide durability, low maintenance, and timeless visual appeal. The transition between the interior cabana space and the outdoor pool area was intentionally designed to feel effortless, creating a resort-inspired atmosphere perfect for hosting guests, relaxing with family, or enjoying year-round backyard living. Every detail of this project reflects premium craftsmanship, modern design principles, and a focus on creating a sophisticated yet highly functional retreat. This project showcases luxury cabana construction, contemporary outdoor living design, modern pool house interiors, custom millwork, polished concrete flooring, indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces, and high-end backyard architecture at 127 Augusta.

The cabana at 127 Augusta was designed as a luxurious all-season outdoor living space that seamlessly blends modern architecture, comfort, and functionality. Featuring expansive black-framed glass doors, polished concrete floors, warm natural wood cabinetry, and a sleek contemporary fireplace, this custom cabana delivers a refined indoor-outdoor experience with a clean, modern aesthetic. Inside, the open-concept layout was thoughtfully designed for entertaining and relaxation. Floor-to-ceiling glazing floods the interior with natural light while creating uninterrupted views of the pool and surrounding landscape. The custom lounge area is anchored by a modern fireplace feature wall, adding warmth and ambiance during cooler evenings and extending the usability of the space throughout multiple seasons. The integrated kitchenette and entertainment area feature custom wood millwork, built-in appliances, and minimalist finishes that complement the cabana’s contemporary design. Carefully selected materials, including polished concrete flooring and matte black architectural accents, provide durability, low maintenance, and timeless visual appeal. The transition between the interior cabana space and the outdoor pool area was intentionally designed to feel effortless, creating a resort-inspired atmosphere perfect for hosting guests, relaxing with family, or enjoying year-round backyard living. Every detail of this project reflects premium craftsmanship, modern design principles, and a focus on creating a sophisticated yet highly functional retreat. This project showcases luxury cabana construction, contemporary outdoor living design, modern pool house interiors, custom millwork, polished concrete flooring, indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces, and high-end backyard architecture at 127 Augusta.

This project features cabinet designs for the kitchen, master bathroom, two additional bathrooms and a laundry room, created by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC with all cabinets and only cabinets supplied by Reico Kitchen & Bath on this project. The kitchen design features custom frameless cabinets supplied by Reico in a combination of painted finishes in grey (perimeter) and blue spruce (island) with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft close doors and drawers. The master bathroom design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Avon door style in Maple with a Sherwin Williams SW7015 Repose Gray painted finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. The bathroom design featuring a mirrored door vanity cabinet is the Ultracraft Rockford door style in Maple with a Melted Brie Nickel Linen finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. The bathroom design featuring multiple blue vanity cabinets and an offset left sink is the Ultracraft Stickley door style in Maple with a Blue Ash finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. The laundry room design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Kiawah door style with matching 5-piece drawer fronts in Cherry with a Coastal Grey with Brown Glaze Worn finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. Photos courtesy of Charleston Realty Pics, LLC.

The strongest feature of this design is the passage of natural sunlight through every space in the home. The grand hall with clerestory windows, the glazed connection bridge from the primary garage to the Owner’s foyer aligns with the dramatic lighting to allow this home glow both day and night. This light is influenced and inspired by the evergreen forest on the banks of the Florida River. The goal was to organically showcase warm tones and textures and movement. To do this, the surfaces featured are walnut floors, walnut grain matched cabinets, walnut banding and casework along with other wood accents such as live edge countertops, dining table and benches. To further play with an organic feel, thickened edge Michelangelo Quartzite Countertops are at home in the kitchen and baths. This home was created to entertain a large family while providing ample storage for toys and recreational vehicles. Between the two oversized garages, one with an upper game room, the generous riverbank laws, multiple patios, the outdoor kitchen pavilion, and the “river” bath, this home is both private and welcoming to family and friends…a true entertaining retreat.

This project features cabinet designs for the kitchen, master bathroom, two additional bathrooms and a laundry room, created by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC with all cabinets and only cabinets supplied by Reico Kitchen & Bath on this project. The kitchen design features custom frameless cabinets supplied by Reico in a combination of painted finishes in grey (perimeter) and blue spruce (island) with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft close doors and drawers. The master bathroom design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Avon door style in Maple with a Sherwin Williams SW7015 Repose Gray painted finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. The bathroom design featuring a mirrored door vanity cabinet is the Ultracraft Rockford door style in Maple with a Melted Brie Nickel Linen finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. The bathroom design featuring multiple blue vanity cabinets and an offset left sink is the Ultracraft Stickley door style in Maple with a Blue Ash finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. The laundry room design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Kiawah door style with matching 5-piece drawer fronts in Cherry with a Coastal Grey with Brown Glaze Worn finish, with dovetail wood drawer cores and soft action guides. Photos courtesy of Charleston Realty Pics, LLC.

This two-toned kitchen features Brighton Cabinetry in multiple colors. The perimeter cabinets are maple with a Maple Dover finish and Neoga Ridge Raised door style. The island, range hood and accent pieces are cherry with a Cherry Hazelnut stain and Ebony Glaze. The countertops are Minotauro granite. Dan Krotz, Cabinet Discounters, Inc.

Example of a mid-sized transitional home design design in Other

BEFORE Picture showing soffits, original cabinetry, which we kept the base cabinet boxes & replaced the doors & hinges, drawer heads, drawer boxes guides, in order to not disturb the new granite countertops, sink, and faucet. The microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher, were the only other items saved and re-used in the new kitchen.

Wild View Farm includes a new “Forever home” (we deconstructed an existing house with a 90% landfill diversion rate), and enhancements to several working barns. The 80 acre site was an original homestead farm from the 1890’s. Both its buildings and soil had become severely degraded. The owners are working to holistically restore this property and make it a model of modern regenerative farming. They are planting hundreds of trees, re-introducing livestock and working with Dryland Agroecology Research and High Plains Permaculture to restore the soil. The -51 HERS rated home is not just energy-efficient - it’s a model of “Regenerative design”. The deep green house design included multiple challenges – foremost was how to create a Passive Solar design that also took full advantage of the massive views to the West. We solved it with an L shaped building that optimized passive and active solar strategies on the south face, then actively protected the western facade with a giant covered porch and tuned glazing. The home’s leading-edge energy package includes a Ground source heat pump, a large roof-mounted solar PV array, battery back-up, EV chargers, and Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV), Energy Star Appliances and windows, a robust foam insulation shell and LED lighting. We also endeavored to craft a modern day interpretation of the farmhouse typology, with a low-slung simple gable-roofed form that would feel like it’s always been there. The exterior material palette of limestone, cementitious stucco and heavy timber gives it a rich Colorado Modern Farmhouse feel. The home is full of custom details like walls of vaulted glass to capture the sweeping mountain views, an AI Smart Home control system, a sleeping loft for kids and guests, a hard-working Butler’s Pantry, a gourmet outdoor kitchen, a pool & spa, a cozy office nook for reading, and a lovely built-in bench for morning coffee. Phase 2 of this project will include a Farmworker ADU and a full renovation of the existing historic barn. Built by Skycastle Construction. Interior Design by Kimball Modern and Rodwin Architecture. Landscaping by EDI. Photography by Dane Cronin Photo

The 2024 Southern Living Idea House is a new build that fits perfectly into the lush countryside. Designer and architect Kirsten Schoettelkotte’s design was inspired by the historic farmsteads and traditional architectural styles of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The home has a wide front porch, brick stairway, copper gutters, and a standalone carriage house. The house’s design blended the indoor and outdoor spaces to take full advantage of the surrounding natural environment. “[Nearly] every room in the house has a window, and that was intentional,” said Schoettelkotte. Multiple Marvin products from the Ultimate and Elevate collections were selected for the home. Their durability and customization ability were a perfect fit for the project. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Ultimate Inswing French Door Marvin Ultimate Multi-Slide Door Marvin Elevate Direct Glaze Windows Marvin Elevate Casement Windows Elevate Awning Windows Architecture Firm: MHK Architecture Builder: Dillard-Jones Interior Designer: Allison Elebash Interior Design Landscape: DesignWorks Photos: 22 Waves Creative

We recently took on an exciting whole-home renovation for this lovely historic Trinity in Center City Philadelphia. Originally built in the mid-1800s, the house footprint is just over 17’ x 13’. As is typical of this type of 3-story house, the kitchen is located in the basement, making this house four floors of occupied space with overall square footage totaling just under 900 square feet. The homeowner felt the former kitchen was cramped, dimly lit, and inefficiently designed, and she was in search of help in bringing her artistic vision for the space to life, blending both old and new elements through an exciting mix of textures and character. High on her priority list was integrating her wonderful collection of objects gathered from her travels around the world. We brought our design skills and construction experience to the team, working with the homeowner and the designer to develop a host of creative solutions, including the installation of an Indonesian screen as a sliding door covering a newly reconfigured utility area, which includes a new on-demand hot water heater, mounted next to a new electrical panel with ample room for service and access. Other Noteworthy Features and Solutions New crisp drywall blended with original masonry wall textures and original exposed beams Custom-glazed adler wood cabinets, beautiful fusion Quartzite and custom cherry counters, and a copper sink were selected for a wonderful interplay of colors, textures, and Old World feel Small-space efficiencies designed for real-size humans, including built-ins wherever possible, limited free-standing furniture, and no upper cabinets Built-in storage and appliances under the counter (refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, and microwave drawer) Additional multi-function storage under stairs Extensive lighting plan with multiple sources and types of light to make this partially below-grade space feel bright and cheery Enlarged window well to bring much more light into the space Insulation added to create sound buffer from the floor above

This master walk-in closet was completed in antique white with glazed drawer faces, slanted shoe shelves, inlay glass doors, brushed chrome hardware, multiple hanging areas and shelving. The island provides drawers for clothing as well as a jewelry insert and pull-out hamper. The crystal knobs and false end panels finish the look. Additional storage is available in the built in bench under the window.

Office Collection 212-45 This collection features: Executive Desk Credenza and Hutch Lateral File Base and Bookshelf Hutch 2-Drawer File Cabinet Available in multiple species and finished. Shown in Brown Maple with 20785 Coffee/Black Glaze stain.

BEFORE Picture showing soffits, original cabinetry, which we kept the base cabinet boxes & replaced the doors & hinges, drawer heads, drawer boxes guides, in order to not disturb the new granite countertops, sink, and faucet. The microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher, were the only other items saved and re-used in the new kitchen.

Example of a large classic l-shaped porcelain tile and brown floor open concept kitchen design in Phoenix with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, gray backsplash, brick backsplash, stainless steel appliances, two islands and multicolored countertops

Photography by Eric Rorer
Tuscan kitchen photo in San Francisco