Many recent renovations had already taken place at this phenomenal old Tudor home. The kitchen redo was saved for last. Our mission, imposed by our client, was to create a jaw-dropping, ultra-functional space for family and friends to gather in for years to come. Naturally, the new kitchen would have to reflect the style of the home seamlessly. One challenge was to incorporate very large professional style appliances into the space while keeping the feel of a stately, yet warm home. Custom wood panels were designed for the refrigerator units to give a furniture feel. A copper hood was designed to bring in an old world element. Wood panels were applied to all other appliances – two dishwashers, a wine refrigerator, and a beverage refrigerator. An iron I-beam that separated the original kitchen from the butler’s pantry and back entry was covered in wood with chamfers to match the other ceiling beams in the home by a local woodworker. Due to the age of the home, the outside walls are concrete block. This necessitated chiseling troughs into the concrete for electrical wiring. Ceilings were studded randomly, so finding openings for recessed lighting was hit or miss. A large cluster of wiring and plumbing to the second floor had to be hidden behind cabinetry to the left of and above the refrigerators. HVAC wasn’t straight forward either. Toe kick heaters from the old kitchen had to be replaced with other sources. A propane tank had to be added to fuel the large dual fuel, double oven range. The homeowner wanted to add a walk-in pantry for extra storage, so space was taken from an existing exterior space. This created the need for extra insulation, supplemental heat and added lighting. Needless to say, mechanicals were a big challenge. Natural stone was added in backsplash areas to the ceiling to mimic the rectangular stone on the exterior of the home. Wood panels fill the backsplash areas under wall cabinets. Large chandeliers light the space. Open shelves at the wet bar/prep area offer convenient storage for grab and go service items. A built-in pantry with antique mirrored mullion doors hides a microwave, several other small appliances as well as dishes and food items. This pantry was tucked into an alcove for an added architectural element. Herringbone wood floors are classic and timeless. Wrought iron hardware and shelf brackets fit right in. Large Barley twist legs ground the island giving a nod to the Tudor style. Mission accomplished. Matt Villano Photography

The extensive renovation of this Colonial Revival influenced residence aimed to blend historic period details with modern amenities. Challenges for this project were that the existing front entry porch and side sunroom were structurally unsound with considerable settling, water damage and damage to the shingle roof structure. This necessitated the total demolition and rebuilding of these spaces, but with modern materials that resemble the existing characteristics of this residence. A new flat roof structure with ornamental railing systems were utilized in place of the original roof design. An ARDA for Renovation Design goes to Roney Design Group, LLC Designers: Tim Roney with Interior Design by HomeOwner, Florida's Finest From: St. Petersburg, Florida

We had the pleasure of working with the new homeowners to design further improvements to the house necessitated by their growing family. We added a porte cochere, a family-room, and increased the ceiling height in their master bedroom. These improvements augmented our design work previously completed in 2008, and the house continues to be a blend of traditional old-house details with modern, contemporary furnishings that perfectly suite a family with young children.

Looking in from hallway. Three doors lead to the kitchen: back door, dining room, hallway necessitating a tight fit and good traffic pattern.
Small transitional u-shaped vinyl floor enclosed kitchen photo in St Louis with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, yellow backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

New babies have a way to raising the importance of additions and remodeling. So it was with this project. This 1920’ era DC home has lots of character, but not of space or bathrooms for this growing family. The need for a larger master suite with its own bath necessitated a 2nd floor bedroom addition. The clients wanted a large bedroom with a fresh look while still harmonizing with the traditional character of the house. Interesting water jet cut steel doors with barn door hardware and cathedral ceilings fit the bill. Contemporary lighting teamed with complex tile makes a good marriage of the new and old space. While the new mom got her new master suite, the new dad wanted an entertainment space reminiscent of his home in Argentina. The 2nd floor bedroom addition provided a covered porch below that then allowed for a very large Asada grill/fireplace. Argentinians are very serious about their barbeques and so was this client. The fireplace style barbeque has a large exotic grilling area along with a dedicated space for making his own charcoal for the grill. The addition above provides cover and also allows for a ceiling fan to cool the hardworking grillmaster. MARK IV Builders, Inc.

The couple who embarked on this Lake Zurich Illinois home renovation spent years planning a move from Virginia to the rolling hills of Northern Illinois when their first grandchild was born. Wanting to be closer to their grown children so they could enjoy their new role, they first embarked upon finding the right realtor and the right home. They settled on the “perfect” home; perfect that is to transform. The seriously outdated 1,800 square foot ranch had a closed outdated kitchen, 3 bedrooms, a living room with a fireplace, a full basement and 2 baths. Although it had “good bones”, it was straight out of a builder’s catalog with wall to wall carpet, standard tile and honey oak everywhere you looked. But this couple had big plans for this home. In tandem with their home purchase, they began the search for the just the right renovation company. The team they chose needed to be cohesive, as the whole house renovation would be designed hundreds of miles from their home several states away. She found Advance Design Studio, Ltd. online, and was quickly enamored by the team and by Common Sense Remodeling, simply by studying the website. Her decision to choose Advance Design to partner on this complete ranch renovation was confirmed quickly upon her first face to face meeting with owner Todd Jurs, and later by Advance’s designer, Nicole Ryan. Three bedrooms were converted into a one master suite with ample bath and walk in closet, laundry, and a 2nd multi-purpose room designed for movies and entertainment, a home office, and a guest room all in one. A doorway leading to the garage was reconfigured to create a foyer area, and allowed for a better flow to an open modern kitchen complete with a large island for cooking and entertaining, which included a wide bench seat overlooking the back yard and opening onto an eating area flanked with a fireplace and TV. The piece de resistance culminated with 3 walls of full glass anchored by a striking fireplace in the new four season’s room where the homeowners enjoy coffee every morning while gazing at the current day’s mid-western landscape. The open floorplan encourages living in “one space” throughout the day. Ryan worked with the couple remotely, exchanging 3D color renderings and floorplans with detailed budget updates until the project took on the very image they had envisioned. “Working with them was a change from our normal meeting process since they were literally in a different state. We conducted meetings by phone, while reviewing materials and drawings via computer. It was a fun process that necessitated lots of detail and careful coordination, but we made it happen and the process was as smooth as if they were right here like normal”, says Nicole. During a stressful time planning their move, the constant interaction with Nicole assured the couple that all was being addressed by the Advance team and they could relax and focus on other important things (like moving cross country). The new master bath incorporated heated flooring, a walk in shower with seating and custom shower niches, and an elegant double sink vanity with ample space for two. “The layout of each of the rooms is exactly what I envisioned,” the client said. “Advance’s attention to details such as light switch placement, electrical outlets, and many other minute details you wouldn’t even think of was the icing on the cake. If I didn’t think of it first, they certainly did,” said the happy homeowner. Small details like the crown molding, the custom designed fireplace mantle, the under-cabinet lighting and etched door glass, and even subtle rhinestones shimmering like delicate jewelry in the tile backsplash brought the whole project together. The clients were extremely happy with the way the Advance team made sure these small things were executed perfectly. “It’s just gorgeous,” they said at a celebratory event in their home hosted shortly after completion for the entire Advance Design team that made it happen. “The entire crew at Advance Design was a pleasure to work with. We couldn’t have done this with a lesser team,” they concluded.

Full gut renovation and facade restoration of an historic 1850s wood-frame townhouse. The current owners found the building as a decaying, vacant SRO (single room occupancy) dwelling with approximately 9 rooming units. The building has been converted to a two-family house with an owner’s triplex over a garden-level rental. Due to the fact that the very little of the existing structure was serviceable and the change of occupancy necessitated major layout changes, nC2 was able to propose an especially creative and unconventional design for the triplex. This design centers around a continuous 2-run stair which connects the main living space on the parlor level to a family room on the second floor and, finally, to a studio space on the third, thus linking all of the public and semi-public spaces with a single architectural element. This scheme is further enhanced through the use of a wood-slat screen wall which functions as a guardrail for the stair as well as a light-filtering element tying all of the floors together, as well its culmination in a 5’ x 25’ skylight.

The extensive renovation of this Colonial Revival influenced residence aimed to blend historic period details with modern amenities. Challenges for this project were that the existing front entry porch and side sunroom were structurally unsound with considerable settling, water damage and damage to the shingle roof structure. This necessitated the total demolition and rebuilding of these spaces, but with modern materials that resemble the existing characteristics of this residence. A new flat roof structure with ornamental railing systems were utilized in place of the original roof design. An ARDA for Renovation Design goes to Roney Design Group, LLC Designers: Tim Roney with Interior Design by HomeOwner, Florida's Finest From: St. Petersburg, Florida

Many recent renovations had already taken place at this phenomenal old Tudor home. The kitchen redo was saved for last. Our mission, imposed by our client, was to create a jaw-dropping, ultra-functional space for family and friends to gather in for years to come. Naturally, the new kitchen would have to reflect the style of the home seamlessly. One challenge was to incorporate very large professional style appliances into the space while keeping the feel of a stately, yet warm home. Custom wood panels were designed for the refrigerator units to give a furniture feel. A copper hood was designed to bring in an old world element. Wood panels were applied to all other appliances – two dishwashers, a wine refrigerator, and a beverage refrigerator. An iron I-beam that separated the original kitchen from the butler’s pantry and back entry was covered in wood with chamfers to match the other ceiling beams in the home by a local woodworker. Due to the age of the home, the outside walls are concrete block. This necessitated chiseling troughs into the concrete for electrical wiring. Ceilings were studded randomly, so finding openings for recessed lighting was hit or miss. A large cluster of wiring and plumbing to the second floor had to be hidden behind cabinetry to the left of and above the refrigerators. HVAC wasn’t straight forward either. Toe kick heaters from the old kitchen had to be replaced with other sources. A propane tank had to be added to fuel the large dual fuel, double oven range. The homeowner wanted to add a walk-in pantry for extra storage, so space was taken from an existing exterior space. This created the need for extra insulation, supplemental heat and added lighting. Needless to say, mechanicals were a big challenge. Natural stone was added in backsplash areas to the ceiling to mimic the rectangular stone on the exterior of the home. Wood panels fill the backsplash areas under wall cabinets. Large chandeliers light the space. Open shelves at the wet bar/prep area offer convenient storage for grab and go service items. A built-in pantry with antique mirrored mullion doors hides a microwave, several other small appliances as well as dishes and food items. This pantry was tucked into an alcove for an added architectural element. Herringbone wood floors are classic and timeless. Wrought iron hardware and shelf brackets fit right in. Large Barley twist legs ground the island giving a nod to the Tudor style. Mission accomplished. Matt Villano Photography

The extensive renovation of this Colonial Revival influenced residence aimed to blend historic period details with modern amenities. Challenges for this project were that the existing front entry porch and side sunroom were structurally unsound with considerable settling, water damage and damage to the shingle roof structure. This necessitated the total demolition and rebuilding of these spaces, but with modern materials that resemble the existing characteristics of this residence. A new flat roof structure with ornamental railing systems were utilized in place of the original roof design. An ARDA for Renovation Design goes to Roney Design Group, LLC Designers: Tim Roney with Interior Design by HomeOwner, Florida's Finest From: St. Petersburg, Florida

Full gut renovation and facade restoration of an historic 1850s wood-frame townhouse. The current owners found the building as a decaying, vacant SRO (single room occupancy) dwelling with approximately 9 rooming units. The building has been converted to a two-family house with an owner’s triplex over a garden-level rental. Due to the fact that the very little of the existing structure was serviceable and the change of occupancy necessitated major layout changes, nC2 was able to propose an especially creative and unconventional design for the triplex. This design centers around a continuous 2-run stair which connects the main living space on the parlor level to a family room on the second floor and, finally, to a studio space on the third, thus linking all of the public and semi-public spaces with a single architectural element. This scheme is further enhanced through the use of a wood-slat screen wall which functions as a guardrail for the stair as well as a light-filtering element tying all of the floors together, as well its culmination in a 5’ x 25’ skylight.

The best features of this loft were formerly obscured by its worst. While the apartment has a rich history—it’s located in a former bike factory, it lacked a cohesive floor plan that allowed any substantive living space. A retired teacher rented out the loft for 10 years before an unexpected fire in a lower apartment necessitated a full building overhaul. He jumped at the chance to renovate the apartment and asked InSitu to design a remodel to improve how it functioned and elevate the interior. We created a plan that reorganizes the kitchen and dining spaces, integrates abundant storage, and weaves in an understated material palette that better highlights the space’s cool industrial character.

The existing kitchen was closed off, which necessitated several space-related compromises that affected many aspects of daily life. Design Objectives: • Open the tiny kitchen to living space • Maintain the dining area • Create a family room/TV space • Increase kitchen storage and work surface • Improve lighting • Upgrade appliances to ‘chef grade’ Biggest Design Challenge: • Our main challenge was to add a family room/TV area while maintaining a dining space. Prior to the remodel, the homeowners were using a TV room on their third floor, which was less than ideal. Taking down the kitchen wall and opening up the area to the adjacent living space made a big difference. The repurposed former dining room works well as a TV space. The former breakfast nook was updated with a new table that allows for casual dining on a daily basis, but is expandable for parties and holidays. Kitchen storage was expanded with island and ceiling-height cabinetry. Kitchen island seating and the open floor plan have definitely changed the quality of day-to-day life – the cook no longer feels isolated and now enjoys preparing meals while spending time with friends.

Full gut renovation and facade restoration of an historic 1850s wood-frame townhouse. The current owners found the building as a decaying, vacant SRO (single room occupancy) dwelling with approximately 9 rooming units. The building has been converted to a two-family house with an owner’s triplex over a garden-level rental. Due to the fact that the very little of the existing structure was serviceable and the change of occupancy necessitated major layout changes, nC2 was able to propose an especially creative and unconventional design for the triplex. This design centers around a continuous 2-run stair which connects the main living space on the parlor level to a family room on the second floor and, finally, to a studio space on the third, thus linking all of the public and semi-public spaces with a single architectural element. This scheme is further enhanced through the use of a wood-slat screen wall which functions as a guardrail for the stair as well as a light-filtering element tying all of the floors together, as well its culmination in a 5’ x 25’ skylight.

Nestled in the heart of Kirkland, this condominium underwent a breathtaking transformation. While most rooms had a good layout, with living and dining room windows offering a stunning view of Lake Washington against the backdrop of majestic mountains, I opted to give the kitchen and both bathrooms a complete layout makeover. This intricate project necessitated the expertise of structural and mechanical engineers. Now, let's delve into the kitchen remodel—a true masterpiece. It entailed dramatic changes in layout, plumbing, and equipment placement. We closely collaborated with the client to craft a brand-new design. A primary goal was to create a spacious, functional kitchen space with ample storage, perfect for family gatherings. By removing two interior walls and retaining a structural column, we fashioned an inviting island with a cozy seating area.

Full gut renovation and facade restoration of an historic 1850s wood-frame townhouse. The current owners found the building as a decaying, vacant SRO (single room occupancy) dwelling with approximately 9 rooming units. The building has been converted to a two-family house with an owner’s triplex over a garden-level rental. Due to the fact that the very little of the existing structure was serviceable and the change of occupancy necessitated major layout changes, nC2 was able to propose an especially creative and unconventional design for the triplex. This design centers around a continuous 2-run stair which connects the main living space on the parlor level to a family room on the second floor and, finally, to a studio space on the third, thus linking all of the public and semi-public spaces with a single architectural element. This scheme is further enhanced through the use of a wood-slat screen wall which functions as a guardrail for the stair as well as a light-filtering element tying all of the floors together, as well its culmination in a 5’ x 25’ skylight.

This home lies on a .22 acre perimeter lot with stunning vistas of mountains to the west and northwest necessitating the design of an open layout with the main living areas in the back of the house where the roof soars upward to the view wall. Tuck Fauntleroy Photography

2018 HNA Awards Winner - Concrete Paver - Residential (size more than 3,000 sf) Contractor: LR Landscaping Producer: Keystone Hardscapes Designer: Tanna Johns Venetian pavers were selected for their ability to integrate with the earthen tones found in the area’s natural grasses, granite, oaks and rust-toned soil. Pavers were tumbled to achieve a weathered and rustic look, complementing the limestone used on the home. The home’s exterior includes exudes quality and includes limestone as well as both precast and oil rubbed bronze iron accents. Tumbled pavers balance German Schmear grout style used on the limestone walls and the roof tile mudded ridges and bumps. The commitment to craftsmanship necessitated a 2.5 year build process. Keystone Hardscapes samples were created and brought to the home during the final stages of constructions to ensure critical harmony between the pavers and exterior elements of the home. The paver samples were laid against the stucco, precast, limestone and cedar garage doors to confirm design alignment and flow. The natural grade of this site was mitigated through a significant backfill and retaining wall; delivering a subtle slope from street to a flat grade driveway. This provided an even surface for vehicles and, with Venetian pavers, a seamless transition from the entry gate in to the inner courtyard.

The extensive renovation of this Colonial Revival influenced residence aimed to blend historic period details with modern amenities. Challenges for this project were that the existing front entry porch and side sunroom were structurally unsound with considerable settling, water damage and damage to the shingle roof structure. This necessitated the total demolition and rebuilding of these spaces, but with modern materials that resemble the existing characteristics of this residence. A new flat roof structure with ornamental railing systems were utilized in place of the original roof design. An ARDA for Renovation Design goes to Roney Design Group, LLC Designers: Tim Roney with Interior Design by HomeOwner, Florida's Finest From: St. Petersburg, Florida