Search results for "Obstacles" in Home Design Ideas

A stunning position for a contemporary build, but with an obstacle in its direct line of sight. More of a challenge than an issue for the Märraum team – and one that they relished.

This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city.
Before: Feeling Disconnected
Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update.
Worries and Concerns
Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise.
The Solution: A Personalized Transformation
We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together.
The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry!
Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round.
The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types.
The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True
The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere.
Life Transformed
Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves.
A Memorable Journey
This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

Vivid Interiors
It all began with an aqua Terrazo tile as the inspiration for -our client's master bathroom transformation. A master suite built for an Edmonds Queen, with walk-in closet, master bathroom, and 2 vanity areas were included. The project also included updates to her powder room and laundry room- which was relocated to the lower level. This allowed us to reframe her master suite area and create a larger, more dramatic, and very functional master bath.
Angled walls made space-planning and reframing a challenging puzzle to solve and we not only had to measure the interior, but the exterior angles as well since we were removing walls. Luckily, the large “wet room” concept met the client’s needs and overcame this obstacle. The new space features a stand-alone tub open showering area, as well as sink vanity, and seated makeup area. Additionally, storage needs were addressed with a wall of cabinetry installed adjacent to the new walk-in closet. A serene color palette and a variety of textures gives this bathroom a spa-like vibe and the aqua highlights repeated in glass accent tiles.
Our client enjoys her choice of a walk-in shower or soaking tub with bubbles in the modernized space. Storage was desperately needed, as you can see from the before photos, so the en-suite closet was designed in a linear wall configuration. The original Terrazo tile was used as the vertical accent in the corner of the shower and on the top of the rounded shower bench. Our client held onto her inspiration tile for years while she saved to create a budget worthy of this project and its amenities. Budget is always a consideration, and here our client chose to spoil herself.
Some unique design features include:
• The angled end of the makeup vanity with shelves for toiletries within easy reach of the tub and hidden view.
• The makeup vanity side lighting, seated counter and a convenient laundry chute
• The free-standing tub is perfectly positioned to create a direct sight-line through the master bedroom to the Puget Sound views beyond.
• Wall-mount waterfall filler and controls at the tub eliminate a bulky floor mount faucet.
• An angled countertop and glass shelving add interest between the sink vanity and closet cabinetry.
• The toilet is tucked out of sight just past the first tall cabinet.
• A glass partition blocks overspray from the shower.
She now enjoys a spa like retreat every day!
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My clients always wanted a fireplace in the family room but could not build the necessary chimney due to building restrictions. To overcome this obstacle we installed an Eco Smart bio fuel fireplace. which became the focal point of the room. Next we added custom cabinetry for storage which coordinated with the kitchen (which is an open room adjacent to this space). Custom furnishings from American Leather and Hickory Chair were selected for my tall client. High performance fabrics were selected to provide worry free enjoyment of the furniture. Finishing accent pieces from Charleston Forge add a warm and contemporary vibe to the pace. The dark stain is a beautiful contrast to the lighter colorway. As you can see there are 2 skylights and 2 very large windows so light is not a problem but sun and heat are. With the height of the ceilings, we needed a large but good looking ceiling fan to control the temperature. An oversize custom ceiling fan was chosen. The walls are a coordinated blue grey to compliment the Venetian plaster finished fireplace column. The rear wall is painted a contrasting color to highlight the fireplace and the built in cherry cabinetry. a Vintage Patchwork rug defines the furniture area and helps soften the sound in the room Custom artwork by the clients mother add the final touches. Peter Rymwid Architectural Photography

We were thrilled to partner with our clients in updating and renovating the entire main floor of their inviting Silver Spring home. Tucked away in one of the area’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods this once ultra-traditional-style home is now the ideal blend of past and present. Knowing that we were not only bringing their space current but also creating a tailored in-law suite for their mother’s upcoming stay — we got right to work on our mission of removing all obstacles to this family’s vision.
This comprehensive project includes a larger, more functional kitchen plus Great Room addition; in-law suite with bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette and living space; family room; and screened in porch / deck combination ideal for grilling, entertaining and enjoying the outdoors.
The expansive and open-layout-kitchen features Dura Supreme Shaker Cabinetry painted white and paired with glistening quartz counters. The space continues on and seamlessly opens up into the breezy Great Room and dining area.
The newly equipped Mini-Split HVAC System provides independent temperature control and the elegant Universal Design In-Law Bathroom ensures both safety and usability.
Hardwood flooring was installed and the existing flooring throughout was refinished to match — giving way to the smooth and continuous feel throughout the entire main level.
We are proud to have created and delivered this transitional redesign and remodel all while keeping a small footprint for the in-law suite and not losing any of the original space.

XS residence is a living concept proposal for singles. The project is characterized by its L-shaped, elevated floor. The height differences on the floor as well as on the ceiling are the sole elements that define the space. The apartment is hence transparent, yet given the sense of rooms and corners. This former warehouse has existing pipes cutting through the interior at the entry where it resulted in stairs and undesirable, immediate climbs. By embracing the obstacle and extending it, the reading of the new, one bedroom apartment is as pure as lines (flows) and surfaces (spaces).
The heart of the radial layout is a sunken gathering platform. This introvert space is embraced by the elevated floor, which serves as the extension of seating, The visitors thereby sit naturally facing each other and converse. The elevated outer ring is an active, fluid platform which receives visitors. At its height, the dinning guests have a great view toward the city skyline which is otherwise hindered. This space also creates a buffer to the exterior where neighbors pass by.
The renovation removed the old flat ceiling, exposing the pitched roof structure to enhance the scale change of the space. The apartment is at its maximum height where activities and interactions take place and shrinks at the perimeter. It is an open layout with sense of spaces and intimacy.

Elevation was the obstacle and motivation behind this grand pool setting. The multiple bodies of water at different elevations blend with the natural lake setting and appear to have always been present. Our design goal was to make it appear that the house was built around the pool. This was accomplished with massive engineering including over 60 piers, many beams, and a pump station all beneath the pool structure. The upper pool is a 9’ diving pool spilling over a 38’ long and 8’ tall water fall into the more shallow volleyball pool. More than 200 tons of stone were used on the pool alone. The pool and landscape design imitates the very best of nature’s environment, and is naturally inviting.

This project centered on helping a wonderful client and her equally fantastic dog transform her condo into a space that truly reflected her style and simplified her life. Eager to create a home that was both beautiful and functional, she envisioned a haven in the heart of the city.
Before: Feeling Disconnected
Before the renovation, our client felt disconnected from her condo. The builder-grade kitchen was a constant source of frustration, with an awkward peninsula that hindered the flow of the space. The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality. The foyer and laundry areas were cramped and lacked organization, while the mismatched hardwood flooring only added to the disjointed atmosphere. As for the bathrooms, they felt frozen in time, desperately needing an update.
Worries and Concerns
Like many homeowners, our client had heard her fair share of renovation horror stories—tales of projects gone awry and the frustrations of managing multiple contractors. She was understandably cautious and needed a trustworthy, experienced team she could rely on to handle the project with care and expertise.
The Solution: A Personalized Transformation
We took the time to listen carefully to our client’s needs and concerns and developed a tailored plan to address each of her pain points. For the kitchen, we preserved the existing layout but reimagined the space entirely. The awkward peninsula was redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide much-needed storage and counter space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-outs, shelving, concealed drawers in the toe kicks, and an appliance garage, were incorporated. The kitchen now boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with light wood-tone lower cabinetry, off-white upper cabinets, and brushed nickel hardware that ties it all together.
The laundry room, once cramped and chaotic, was transformed into an organized, efficient space. We added custom cabinetry with pull-outs for hanging clothes, open storage above, a laundry sink, and a spacious counter for folding—no more piles of laundry!
Both the en-suite and shared bathrooms underwent complete renovations. Custom cabinetry was installed, including a floor-to-ceiling linen closet, and light grey and brown-toned tiles were selected, with contrasting hexagonal tiles for the shower floor. A heated flooring system was added for luxury and comfort year-round.
The mismatched flooring throughout the condo was replaced with cohesive vinyl and porcelain tiles, creating a seamless, modern aesthetic throughout the space.
Overcoming Challenges
As with any renovation, there were challenges to navigate. One of the key obstacles was managing the condo board’s renovation rules and policies while coordinating the delivery schedules for finishes and fixtures, especially during the busy holiday season. With careful planning, we ensured the project stayed on track. Additionally, we encountered a height variation between the tile and vinyl flooring. To resolve this, we used self-leveling material under the vinyl, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition between the two flooring types.
The Grand Reveal: A Dream Come True
The final result is simply stunning. The kitchen is now a chef’s dream, with custom-built cabinets, smooth quartz countertops, and a matching stone backsplash. Brushed nickel and stainless steel plumbing fixtures, elegant cabinet hardware, and LED lighting under the upper cabinets add the perfect finishing touches. Custom organizers in the foyer and laundry closets provide ample storage and keep everything neatly in place. The bathrooms have been transformed into spa-like retreats, with beautiful porcelain tiles and custom cabinetry. The new vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas and bedroom unifies the space, creating a cohesive and modern atmosphere.
Life Transformed
Our client’s life has been completely transformed. As a passionate cook, she now relishes spending time in her beautiful and functional kitchen. The single-bowl sink makes cleanup a breeze, and the thoughtfully designed storage solutions have brought a sense of calm and order to her home. The refreshed flooring and neutral paint palette have created a relaxing, comfortable environment she truly loves.
A Memorable Journey
This project was more than just a renovation—it was a collaboration. Our client valued our guidance throughout the design process, particularly when faced with the overwhelming number of decisions. We built a strong relationship with her, and we are immensely grateful for the trust she placed in our team.

I met Kelly & Wally when I moved to the shore many moons ago and we instantly clicked. She gave me full reign on design, so I modeled her new kitchen off of her personality…fun & glamorous with a splash of the unexpected. During the reno she became a proud grandmother, hence “Glammy”. We couldn’t stop there, we also gutted her hall bath, what an upgrade.
The biggest obstacle was an “L” shaped wall, so Overholt Contracting said no problem, we’ll get rid of the walls! Then we tore out both pantries to flank her new Thermador® appliances, while keeping her walk in pantry under the stairs. The stairs also got a facelift with beautiful new cable rail. From the Cambria® single slab island counter to the Waterstone® “Super Soaker 4000” she truly has it all. All the doggies love their new space as well.

Our overall design concept for the renovation of this space was to optimize the functional space for a family of five and accentuate the existing window. In the renovation, we eliminated a huge centrally located kitchen island which acted as an obstacle to the feeling of the space and focused on creating an elegant and balanced plan promoting movement, simplicity and precisely executed details. We held strong to having the kitchen cabinets, wherever possible, float off the floor to give the subtle impression of lightness avoiding a bottom heavy look. The cabinets were painted a pale tinted green to reduce the empty effect of light flooding a white kitchen leaving a softness and complementing the gray tiles.
To integrate the existing dining room with the kitchen, we simply added some classic dining chairs and a dynamic light fixture, juxtaposing the geometry of the boxy kitchen with organic curves and triangular lights to balance the clean design with an inviting warmth.

This townhome located on Lake Anna of Reston, VA own into a confined gall kitchen with a very limited cabinet space, short wall cabinets, big closet taking over big portion of kitchen, duct chase creating a big barrier, plumbing chases causing bulkhead and a bearing wall header to name a few of obstacles
Their dream was to walk in from front door and have a clear view of wall to wall scenic view of the lake.
Modernize the kitchen, eliminate bearing walls, lots of storage, upgraded appliances and so much more.
They have been chasing this dream for years and have been turned down by multiple firms due to level of difficulty of the project, budget constraint and as she put it “cleeking with a design firm that can feel her needs”
Our staff spent countless number of hours to hear her and bring her dream to reality.
The main constraint was the bearing wall on corner of foyer and living room, which was a closet, main duct chase and return ducts, obscene amount of plumbing and not to mention structural load.
By the way of re-routing mechanical chases, and reformulating all second-floor plumbing stack to back walls, and then inserting few structural beams that transfer the second-floor joists to front and back wall, we have accomplished the biggest goals of all and created the view open floor plan
Now home to a big island with cooktop and beverage center. The home has front to back clear view of the scenic lake.
¬¬¬With expanding the kitchen into front breakfast area, we have doubled up on storage and cabinet space.
Long line of gorgeous counter top and full backsplash under new Led lighting has glorified this kitchen project.
The linear porcelain floor tile has complimented the counter top and her trophy accessories.

The yard was very sloped, but free of obstacles.
Inspiration for a coastal home design remodel in Tampa
Inspiration for a coastal home design remodel in Tampa

Hi, everyone we are in Reston, Virginia,
In this project, the kitchen used to be is now the living room. My clients wanted to update their kitchen, it was a little tight where it was, there were a lot of walls. We wanted to take it away and kind of give them a bigger island so they can seat the kids and they can all have a seat together, enjoy their breakfast, and so forth in a bigger, wider space.
So we also redid the entire floors throughout the house. I wanted to go with a slightly more natural look for the wood. It has a natural stain with a matte finish, which hides scratches. If you have pets or kids, we also match the wood to the floor.
So there is a little bit of warmth around the white. We added sconces around the dining room area to the fireplace to kind of highlight that area there. And then we also paneled the fridge. It makes this line continue a little bit longer since they didn't have the longest run on this end. So it's not stopping by an obstacle that's metal or stainless steel. So that way, it kind of blends in a little bit more with everything, and you only have the range that's showing, which is the focal point
We'll see you on the next project.
Enjoy.

When challenges arise, Green Bay Remodeling delivers solutions! This client called us ‘problem solvers’ after we transformed their space with precision and creativity. Watch how we tackled obstacles to create a home that exceeds expectations.

Located on a steep hill above downtown Ventura, this modern Spanish house features panoramic views of town with the ocean and Channel Islands beyond. While the views are amazing from a large front deck, the steep slope presented some constraints on the landscape design.
Although the property is about a third-of-an-acre, the only useable and open garden space is a small (about 500 square feet) area to the West of the house. The house sits at the back of the property, and another steep hill on the neighboring property behind is held back by a tall retaining wall, leaving just enough room for a narrow, hardscaped patio in the back yard.
Bright plantings along the back of the property delineate the home from the neighboring property, and we chose plantings to help stabilize the soil and further develop the Spanish garden look while creating a lush, inviting feel. Additionally, we added 52 pieces of pottery to soften and add interest to the back garden and patio areas. Succulents, herbs, and California natives fill the pottery along with bright, sweet-smelling, tropical-looking, and climate-appropriate plants.
Slope stabilization was paramount for the front hill. Beyond that, finding plants that would thrive on the steep slope was the next obstacle. Finally, the aesthetics could be addressed, and we worked to find plants that meshed with the architecture—blending plants with white and orange to play off the red-tiled roofs and white-plastered walls that are emblematic of the Spanish style of this house as well as the predominate style of the neighborhood.
The flattish area to the West was designed with the idea of creating a contemporary take on the parterre garden. Reminiscent of Mediterranean gardens, this vegetable and herb garden substitutes formal hedges with formal Corten steel planters to honor the modern Spanish architecture of the house. The citrus, herbs, and vegetables serve the foodie clients well.

Glacier Glass Splashback.
This client opted for two tone cabinets and therefore wanted a neutral backdrop to make to make their cabinets sing!
We created a glass splashback behind the range cooker, and then some matching glass up stands. This gives the client flexibility of repainting the walls to transform the look of the kitchen.
Glass is the perfect alternative to tiles. Modern, easy clean and completely customisable it has many advantages. It is possible to choose any colour or design, creating something completely unique.
The versatility of glass means that it can be shaped around any obstacle, including cooker hoods and shelving.
At DIY Splashbacks we can create bespoke glass products in any size, shape, colour, pattern or image. It's even possible for clients to provide their own image, and we can digitally print on to it. Whatever your inspiration is, we can make it.
Visit our website to discover more.
© glasssplashbacks.com

A modern update to this condo built in 1966 with a gorgeous view of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City.
Concrete structural columns and walls were an obstacle to incorporate into the design.
White conversion varnish finish on maple raised panel doors. Counter top is Blue Flowers granite with mitered edge.
Walnut floating shelves with recessed led lighting.

Painted MDF with Wood doors, drawer faces & moldings. Custom sized to work with low ceiling and other obstacles.
Elegant home design photo in Other
Elegant home design photo in Other

A modern update to this condo built in 1966 with a gorgeous view of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City.
Concrete structural columns and walls were an obstacle to incorporate into the design.
White conversion varnish finish on maple raised panel doors. Counter top is Blue Flowers granite with mitered edge.
Walnut floating shelves with recessed led lighting.

This extended view of the dining area shows a rustic stone backdrop and slate tiled flooring. An intimate dining area allows for access to a full bar across the room and utilizes a separating half-wall with millwork and a wood top. Soffits, millwork columns, and half-walls provide solutions for beam and utility obstacles. The space showcases a variety of light features including 3'' soffit lighting, exterior wall mounted lights, and hanging Tiffany lamp. There is plenty of entertainment space for a game of table tennis and foosball!
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