For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

THE SETUP Sam’s clients wanted to update their hall bathroom used by their three children. The goal was to create a space that is both kid-friendly and elegant, ensuring it remains functional and stylish as the children grow. The original bathroom felt confined due to dark materials and a single-sink vanity. The challenge was to find a design that looks great now and in the future. Design objectives: Create a sense of spaciousness Increase storage for bathroom necessities and daily routines Enhance lighting THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: No structural changes – must keep the tub and wall structure Transforming a small, dark space into a bright, open one without adding a new window Multi-user-minded – Improving functionality for multiple users simultaneously Timeless & kid-friendly – create a comfy kid-friendly look that won’t appear dated as the kids grow older THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Slimmer Tub and Sliding Shower Door installed to free up functional space, making the bathroom feel larger. Lighter Materials used to reflect more light and add a vibrant feel. Open shelves above the toilet provide storage without making the space feel cramped, while allowing light from the existing window to permeate. Dual Sink Vanity added, and split the mirror into two, creating individual stations for the kids and enhancing usability during busy routines. Kid-Friendly Features – Incorporated toe-kick lighting that works as a nightlight, a lower-mounted shower handheld, and a large, accessible shower niche. The geometric shapes and blue color palette contribute to a fun yet sophisticated look. The clients are thrilled with the transformation. The bathroom is now fun and elegant, providing a timeless look that will grow with the kids. They appreciate the increased functionality and the bright, open feel of the space. This remodel successfully blends practical solutions with stylish design, ensuring the hall bathroom meets the needs of a busy family while maintaining a sophisticated look.

Coco coir is a versatile and sustainable growing medium that is gaining popularity among gardeners. Made from the fibrous husk of coconuts, it’s an eco-friendly alternative to peat moss and can greatly enhance the quality of your soil. In gardening, it is often utilized in systems like Coco Coir Hydroponic, where it helps create an efficient water and nutrient delivery system. What is Coco Coir? Coco coir is a natural fiber extracted from coconut husks. It has a neutral pH, excellent water retention, and is reusable, making it a favorite among gardeners who prefer organic and sustainable practices. It is available in different forms such as blocks, bricks, or loose coir, each requiring some preparation before use in gardening. Benefits of Using Coco Coir in Gardening Coco coir offers several advantages for gardening. Here are the benefits of using coco coir in gardening: Holds up to 10 times its weight in water, ensuring plants have consistent moisture. Promotes oxygen flow to plant roots, leading to healthier root systems. Coco coir is a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to peat moss. It can be washed, rehydrated, and reused, reducing waste. Naturally pH neutral, making it suitable for various plants without major adjustments. Enhances the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. How to Prepare Coco Coir for Planting Preparing coco coir for planting involves a few essential steps. First, you need to hydrate the coir block, as it typically comes in a compressed form. Place the block in a large container and add warm water, allowing the block to expand and absorb the water. Once fully expanded, the coir should be fluffed up by breaking it apart with your hands or a tool to ensure it becomes loose and airy. After the coir has been fluffed, it is important to drain any excess water, as overly wet coir can lead to root suffocation. Finally, since coco coir is inert and does not contain nutrients, it’s a good idea to add organic compost or liquid fertilizer to enrich the coir before planting. Do You Need to Soak Coco Coir Before Planting? Yes, soaking coco coir before planting is necessary. Since it comes in a compressed form, it needs to be broken down and hydrated for proper use. The soaking process allows the coir to expand and release the fibers, making it usable as a growing medium. After soaking, the coir should be fluffed to ensure the water is evenly distributed. Draining any excess water is crucial because overly wet coir may impede plant root health. How to Prepare Coco Peat for Planting Coco peat, a fine, powdery form of coco coir, is highly beneficial for seed starting and improving water retention in soil. To prepare coco peat, it first needs to be hydrated, similar to how you prepare coir blocks. Slowly add water to the peat in a container and allow it to absorb and fluff up. Once hydrated, coco peat can be used on its own or mixed with other growing media such as perlite or vermiculite for added aeration and drainage. It is advisable to check the pH level of your final mix, as coco peat generally has a neutral pH, but adjustments may be necessary depending on the plants being grown. Can You Use Just Coco Coir for Plants? Yes, coco coir can be used by itself to grow plants, especially in hydroponic systems or as a seed-starting medium. However, because coco coir does not naturally contain nutrients, you will need to provide regular fertilizer to support plant growth. This makes it particularly suitable for plants grown in controlled environments, such as hydroponics, where nutrient solutions can be carefully managed. In traditional soil-based gardening, mixing coco coir with other organic materials like compost is recommended to provide essential nutrients and improve the overall soil structure. How to Use Coco Coir in Hydroponics Coco coir is widely used in hydroponic systems due to its water retention and aeration properties. To use coco coir in hydroponics, it first needs to be soaked and hydrated, as discussed earlier. Once the coir is fully prepared, it can be placed in the hydroponic system. Since coco coir does not contain natural nutrients, you will need to supply a balanced nutrient solution tailored for hydroponic plants. Regular monitoring of water and nutrient levels is essential to prevent nutrient imbalances or root rot. One of the benefits of coco coir in hydroponics is its reusability. After completing a growing cycle, the coir can be washed, rehydrated, and used again in future plantings. Using Coco Coir as a Soil Amendment Coco coir is also an excellent soil amendment, as it improves the texture and moisture retention of garden soil. To use coco coir in this way, mix loose coir with your existing garden soil at a ratio of one part coco coir to two parts soil. This will help retain moisture without compacting the soil, improving both water drainage and root growth. For optimal results, you can also add organic compost to the mix, ensuring that the nutrient levels are sufficient for plant growth. Coco coir works particularly well in raised beds, where it helps maintain proper soil structure over time. Advantages of Using Coco Coir Over Peat Moss While peat moss has been traditionally used as a growing medium, coco coir offers several advantages over it. Coco coir is a renewable resource, as it is a byproduct of coconut processing, while peat moss is harvested from peat bogs that take centuries to regenerate. Coco coir is also more durable, as it can be reused multiple times without breaking down, while peat moss disintegrates after a single use. Another key benefit is its neutral pH, whereas peat moss is more acidic and may require balancing to meet the needs of specific plants. Conclusion Coco coir is a highly versatile and sustainable growing medium that benefits both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you are using it for hydroponics, as a soil amendment, or as a standalone medium for growing plants, knowing how to properly prepare and use it is key to maximizing its benefits. By following the steps detailed above, you can improve water retention, aeration, and overall plant health in your garden, all while contributing to eco-friendly gardening practices.

The kitchen features a large island with a sink. The dark perimeter countertops contrast with the light island stone. Plenty of storage for a growing family.

For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

THE SETUP Sam’s clients wanted to update their hall bathroom used by their three children. The goal was to create a space that is both kid-friendly and elegant, ensuring it remains functional and stylish as the children grow. The original bathroom felt confined due to dark materials and a single-sink vanity. The challenge was to find a design that looks great now and in the future. Design objectives: Create a sense of spaciousness Increase storage for bathroom necessities and daily routines Enhance lighting THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: No structural changes – must keep the tub and wall structure Transforming a small, dark space into a bright, open one without adding a new window Multi-user-minded – Improving functionality for multiple users simultaneously Timeless & kid-friendly – create a comfy kid-friendly look that won’t appear dated as the kids grow older THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Slimmer Tub and Sliding Shower Door installed to free up functional space, making the bathroom feel larger. Lighter Materials used to reflect more light and add a vibrant feel. Open shelves above the toilet provide storage without making the space feel cramped, while allowing light from the existing window to permeate. Dual Sink Vanity added, and split the mirror into two, creating individual stations for the kids and enhancing usability during busy routines. Kid-Friendly Features – Incorporated toe-kick lighting that works as a nightlight, a lower-mounted shower handheld, and a large, accessible shower niche. The geometric shapes and blue color palette contribute to a fun yet sophisticated look. The clients are thrilled with the transformation. The bathroom is now fun and elegant, providing a timeless look that will grow with the kids. They appreciate the increased functionality and the bright, open feel of the space. This remodel successfully blends practical solutions with stylish design, ensuring the hall bathroom meets the needs of a busy family while maintaining a sophisticated look.

For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

Fully redesigned and remodeled upstair hall bathroom. Designed for a growing family with kids. Incorporated a tub shower combination and a large modern vanity with circle mirror.

Fabric bags were the original aeration containers. They have been widely used in a variety of environments from outdoors to hydroponics. RediRoot fabric is breathable, BPA free, made from recycled materials, and suitable for reuse. Designed to maximize airflow to the root zone, RediRoot Fabric Aeration Bags feature a lightweight yet durable fabric that provides effective and efficient air root pruning for plants and trees. The bags feature reinforced stitching throughout to ensure their durability for use through multiple growing seasons. A dark green topstitch helps the bag stay open for easier filling. RediRoot bags have been used in a variety of environments and are known to produce a dense fibrous root structure, reduce circling roots, and increase yields. Available in sizes 1-1000 for home or commercial use. *Landscape and wholesale customers please call for a quote.

This interdisciplinary project was a delight to collaborate with colleagues in architecture, interior design, and the client to build a luxury dream home landscape for this growing family. We focused on creating an interconnection between indoor and outdoors through a cohesive design. This project became a stately home that now sits proudly amongst other historical architectural gems in the neighborhood. Our team designed multiple terraces and outdoor living spaces, including a roof deck with porcelain tiles, custom planters, privacy screening, and fire features. An aluminum pergola system with lights and heaters was added to create an outdoor dining space to the terrace adjacent to the kitchen and primary living room. To top it all off, we added an irrigation system to the entire property to keep the landscape looking green and lush year-round.

This small third bedroom in a 1950's North Vancouver home originally housed our growing interior design business. When we outgrew this 80 square foot space and moved to a studio across the street, I wondered what would become of this room with its lovely ocean view. As it turns out it evolved into a shared creative space for myself and my very artistic 7 year old daughter. In the spirit of Virginia Wolfe's "A Room of One's Own" this is a creative space where we are surrounded by some of our favourite things including vintage collectibles & furniture, artwork and craft projects, not to mention my all time favourite Cole and Son wallpaper. It is all about pretty and girly with just the right amount of colour. Interior Design by Lori Steeves of Simply Home Decorating Inc. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography.

We transformed this steep backyard in Sherman Oaks into a tiered outdoor space built for entertaining, relaxing, and everyday family use. The new landscape layout features level steps, retaining walls, and multiple usable areas, making moving through the yard easier and safer. Two lower tiers include built-in bench seating, space for outdoor dining, and a fire pit area surrounded by natural stone and paving. Lush lawn sections, planted garden beds, curved walkways, and low garden lighting help soften the steep gradient while keeping the backyard practical, welcoming, and easy to enjoy throughout the day and evening. Backyard Transformation in Sherman Oaks CA - https://www.magnoliaoutdoors.net/backyard-transformation/

For this project, our clients wanted a home that reflected their elevated style and supported their growing family. With young daughters, a new baby on the way, and a nanny suite that needed both accessibility and privacy, this design was all about balancing sophistication with family-friendly functionality. We reimagined multiple spaces, ensuring every room spoke to each other while maintaining its personality. Their daughters’ bedrooms feel more vibrant and personal, with thoughtful details like new lighting, fresh paint, and furniture that will transition with them as they grow. The nursery became a dreamy retreat featuring cloud-like textures and soft, celestial touches—an enchanting space designed for their newest addition. The attic, once an afterthought, is now an extension of the home that feels as if it was always meant to be there. The office was designed with depth and refinement, incorporating a built-in library cabinet with a striking black slab background and moody furnishings that add a sense of sophistication. This project was about creating a home that effortlessly evolves with their growing family—where elegance and practicality go hand in hand, and every space feels elevated and deeply livable.

This project was completed off Lakeshore Drive in Grosse Pointe, where we undertook a full landscape transformation. The scope included removing the entire existing landscape, stripping all sod, and clearing debris. We constructed a new front entrance with pavers and built a large patio featuring an outdoor kitchen and a gas-powered fireplace. The project began in 2024 with the demolition and site preparation. In April 2025, we started paver patio construction, which incorporated multiple pillars, outdoor lighting, and extensive paver steps & walls —all built using Unilock Pisa2 materials. The planting plan, designed by landscape architect Robert Marzolf, introduced a variety of trees and plantings selected for privacy, seasonal color, and alignment with the overall aesthetic. The project was completed with the installation of a new sprinkler system and fresh sod throughout the property.

This modern farmhouse is a complete custom renovation to transform an existing rural Duncan house into a home that was suitable for our clients’ growing family and lifestyle. The original farmhouse was too small and dark. The layout for this house was also ineffective for a family with parents who work from home. The new design was carefully done to meet the clients’ needs. As a result, the layout of the home was completely flipped. The kitchen was switched to the opposite corner of the house from its original location. In addition, Made to Last constructed multiple additions to increase the size. An important feature to the design was to capture the surrounding views of the Cowichan Valley countryside with strategically placed windows.

This modern farmhouse is a complete custom renovation to transform an existing rural Duncan house into a home that was suitable for our clients’ growing family and lifestyle. The original farmhouse was too small and dark. The layout for this house was also ineffective for a family with parents who work from home. The new design was carefully done to meet the clients’ needs. As a result, the layout of the home was completely flipped. The kitchen was switched to the opposite corner of the house from its original location. In addition, Made to Last constructed multiple additions to increase the size. An important feature to the design was to capture the surrounding views of the Cowichan Valley countryside with strategically placed windows.