Search results for "Obstacles" in Home Design Ideas
Sosna IncThis 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 The condo overall felt outdated and no longer captured her vibrant personality.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.
Green Bay Remodeling Inc.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.
UserXS 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.
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Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes2011 National NARI CotY Southeast Regional Award Winner, Residential Universal Design
Middle age family in Fairfax, Virginia faced obstacles in their 1980’s home. The home design was dysfunctional by client home’s narrow hall ways and small bathrooms with unusable tubs and tight spacing where two people could not use it at the same time. Clients desperately needed a more fully accessible laundry, bedroom, and spacious bathroom that could be accommodating their needs for today and as well as the future. We built a 10’ x 40’ first floor room and bath to the back of the home with a full new spacious bedroom with new high efficiency gas fireplace. In addition to the bedroom the space provided a new full bathroom. Also, built out new screened-in porch with railing and handles, trex decking and low maintenance synthetic trims and ceiling panels
Latady DesignView of one of the children's bedrooms. The existing beams in the roof were preserved and reused in the new addition. The ribbon windows at the the top of the wall allow natural light from the bedroom to flow into the hall. Photograph by Kevin A. Latady © 2014.
House to Home SolutionsWe 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.
Creative Design CabinetryA 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..
Magy Interiors LLCWith such an spectacular view of downtown Miami, , we made sure the door was free of any obstacle. We used roll up solar screen shades and black out lined draperies that stacks to one side. Grass clothe wallpaper was installed to coordinate with the client's existing area rug and custom bed coverings.
Sweet Smiling Landscape DesignLocated 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.
AquaTerra OutdoorsElevation 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.
Maugel DeStefano ArchitectsCrafted with a relaxed and effortless charm, this 5,600 SF shingle-style home offers views to the Isles of Shoals. The clients' goal was to create a warm and welcoming home that radiated both elegance and comfort while easily accommodating their newest additions to the family: their grandchildren.
Despite the challenge posed by the lot's unique shape, the team worked hard so that the design seamlessly integrates with the property, avoiding any sense of imposition to the land or its inhabitants. To overcome this obstacle, the design team incorporated a custom fit angle into the floor plan, defining the open-concept rooms and perfectly aligning with the clients' vision of a friendly and casual space.
The heart of the home lies in the open kitchen, with a generous granite island, a cozy breakfast nook, and adjacent open sitting areas. To ensure that the beauty of the Seacoast is always within sight, 30 strategically placed windows grace the waterside of the home, capturing the essence of the Shoals and inviting refreshing sea breezes into the interior.
MarraumA 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.
Sweet Smiling Landscape DesignLocated 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.
RAW Architecture + DesignThe Williams Master Bathroom is one of our favorite bathroom renovations. We can’t get over how gorgeous this bathroom came out! How can you not walk into this bathroom and smile?! The bright teal subway tile totally transformed this space. Many obstacles on this project were avoided due to our well-experienced renovation team. We provided these clients with a custom vanity and linen closet, new shower, elevated tub platform with a freestanding tub, vertical running subway tile, and marble floor tile to brighten up this once peach builder’s grade bathroom.
Drury DesignDesign Objectives:
Respect the home’s vintage feel while bringing the kitchen up to date
Open up the kitchen area to create an open space for gathering and entertaining
Upgrade appliances to top-of-the-line models
Include a large island with seating
Include seating for casual family meals in a space that won’t be a replacement for the adjacent formal dining room
THE REMODEL
Design Challenges:
Remove a load-bearing wall and combine smaller rooms to create one big kitchen
A powder room in the back corner of the existing kitchen was a huge obstacle to updating the layout
Maintain large windows with views of the yard while still providing ample storage
Design Solutions:
Relocating the powder room to another part of the first floor (a large closet under the stairs) opened up the space dramatically
Create space for a larger island by recessing the fridge/freezer and shifting the pantry to a space adjacent to the kitchen
A banquette saves space and offers a perfect solution for casual dining
The walnut banquette table beautifully complements the fridge/freezer armoire
Utilize a gap created by the new fridge location to create a tall shallow cabinet for liquor storage w/ a wine cubby
Closing off one doorway into the dining room and using the “between the studs” space for a tall storage cabinet
Dish organizing drawers offer handy storage for plates, bowls, and serving dishes right by main sink and dishwasher
Cabinetry backing up to the dining room offers ample storage for glassware and functions both as a coffee station and cocktail bar
Open shelves flanking the hood add storage without blocking views and daylight
A beam was required where the wall was removed. Additional beams added architectural interest and helped integrate the beams into the space
Statement lighting adds drama and personality to the space
THE RENEWED SPACE
This project exemplifies the transformative power of good design. Simply put, good design allows you to live life artfully. The newly remodeled kitchen effortlessly combines functionality and aesthetic appeal, providing a delightful space for cooking and spending quality time together. It’s comfy for regular meals but ultimately outfitted for those special gatherings. Infused with classic finishes and a timeless charm, the kitchen emanates an enduring atmosphere that will never go out of style. This photo hones in on the lap drawers on seating side of island.
Drury DesignRelocating from San Francisco, this young family immediately zeroed in on the wonderful historic homes around downtown Chicago. Most of the properties they saw checked a lot of wish list boxes, but none of them checked every box. The house they landed on had beautiful curb appeal, a dramatic entry with a welcoming porch and front hall, and a really nice yard. Unfortunately, it did not have a kitchen that was well set-up for cooking and entertaining. Reworking the kitchen area was the top priority.
The family had met with a few other designers and even had an architect take a crack at the space, but they were not able to come up with a viable solution. Here’s how Senior Designer Diana Burton approached the project…
Design Objectives:
Respect the home’s vintage feel while bringing the kitchen up to date
Open up the kitchen area to create an open space for gathering and entertaining
Upgrade appliances to top-of-the-line models
Include a large island with seating
Include seating for casual family meals in a space that won’t be a replacement for the adjacent formal dining room
THE REMODEL
Design Challenges:
Remove a load-bearing wall and combine smaller rooms to create one big kitchen
A powder room in the back corner of the existing kitchen was a huge obstacle to updating the layout
Maintain large windows with views of the yard while still providing ample storage
Design Solutions:
Relocating the powder room to another part of the first floor (a large closet under the stairs) opened up the space dramatically
Create space for a larger island by recessing the fridge/freezer and shifting the pantry to a space adjacent to the kitchen
A banquette saves space and offers a perfect solution for casual dining
The walnut banquette table beautifully complements the fridge/freezer armoire
Utilize a gap created by the new fridge location to create a tall shallow cabinet for liquor storage w/ a wine cubby
Closing off one doorway into the dining room and using the “between the studs” space for a tall storage cabinet
Dish organizing drawers offer handy storage for plates, bowls, and serving dishes right by main sink and dishwasher
Cabinetry backing up to the dining room offers ample storage for glassware and functions both as a coffee station and cocktail bar
Open shelves flanking the hood add storage without blocking views and daylight
A beam was required where the wall was removed. Additional beams added architectural interest and helped integrate the beams into the space
Statement lighting adds drama and personality to the space
THE RENEWED SPACE
This project exemplifies the transformative power of good design. Simply put, good design allows you to live life artfully. The newly remodeled kitchen effortlessly combines functionality and aesthetic appeal, providing a delightful space for cooking and spending quality time together. It’s comfy for regular meals but ultimately outfitted for those special gatherings. Infused with classic finishes and a timeless charm, the kitchen emanates an enduring atmosphere that will never go out of style.
House to Home SolutionsWe 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.
THE Remodel GroupBuilt in the 1970s by a hardworking family patriarch, this Portland-area ranch home had been the backdrop for generations of memories. When the homeowners inherited the property from their grandparents, they saw an opportunity to honor its history while creating a modern sanctuary for their growing family. Through a thoughtful whole-home renovation, this once dark and compartmentalized ranch was transformed into a bright, open, and welcoming home designed for the next generation.
With a toddler at home and another child on the way, the family's goal was to create spaces that felt connected, functional, and built to last. The heart of the renovation centered on opening the home's main living areas, replacing disconnected rooms with a spacious open-concept kitchen and living room designed for gathering and everyday life. Enlarged windows flood the interior with natural light, while carefully selected finishes bring warmth, durability, and timeless appeal.
The kitchen became the focal point of the transformation. Stock cabinetry was elevated through custom details including floating wood shelves and stained wood-wrapped columns that add warmth and character. At the center, a striking quartz island serves as both a gathering place and a clever structural solution, seamlessly incorporating support elements required for the newly opened floor plan.
Creating this open-concept layout required significant structural modifications, including the removal of six walls, three of them load-bearing. Engineered beams were recessed into the ceiling to maintain clean sightlines, while new footings were carefully installed within the crawlspace to support the redistributed loads. Additional improvements included relocating the furnace to eliminate a major circulation obstacle and installing a new garage access door that required modifications to the existing foundation.
Throughout the project, thoughtful planning helped maximize both budget and performance. Luxury vinyl plank flooring provides the look of hardwood while standing up to children and large pets, while stain-resistant carpeting offers comfort in the bedrooms. Existing window locations were retained and enlarged to increase natural light without the expense of major structural changes. Even the structural columns required for the new beams were integrated into the island design, transforming a necessity into an architectural feature.
Completed two weeks ahead of schedule, this Portland metro ranch remodel demonstrates how thoughtful design-build remodeling can preserve a home's heritage while adapting it for modern family living. Through strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and quality craftsmanship, a beloved family home was transformed into a bright, functional retreat ready to create decades of new memories.
THE Remodel GroupBuilt in the 1970s by a hardworking family patriarch, this Portland-area ranch home had been the backdrop for generations of memories. When the homeowners inherited the property from their grandparents, they saw an opportunity to honor its history while creating a modern sanctuary for their growing family. Through a thoughtful whole-home renovation, this once dark and compartmentalized ranch was transformed into a bright, open, and welcoming home designed for the next generation.
With a toddler at home and another child on the way, the family's goal was to create spaces that felt connected, functional, and built to last. The heart of the renovation centered on opening the home's main living areas, replacing disconnected rooms with a spacious open-concept kitchen and living room designed for gathering and everyday life. Enlarged windows flood the interior with natural light, while carefully selected finishes bring warmth, durability, and timeless appeal.
The kitchen became the focal point of the transformation. Stock cabinetry was elevated through custom details including floating wood shelves and stained wood-wrapped columns that add warmth and character. At the center, a striking quartz island serves as both a gathering place and a clever structural solution, seamlessly incorporating support elements required for the newly opened floor plan.
Creating this open-concept layout required significant structural modifications, including the removal of six walls, three of them load-bearing. Engineered beams were recessed into the ceiling to maintain clean sightlines, while new footings were carefully installed within the crawlspace to support the redistributed loads. Additional improvements included relocating the furnace to eliminate a major circulation obstacle and installing a new garage access door that required modifications to the existing foundation.
Throughout the project, thoughtful planning helped maximize both budget and performance. Luxury vinyl plank flooring provides the look of hardwood while standing up to children and large pets, while stain-resistant carpeting offers comfort in the bedrooms. Existing window locations were retained and enlarged to increase natural light without the expense of major structural changes. Even the structural columns required for the new beams were integrated into the island design, transforming a necessity into an architectural feature.
Completed two weeks ahead of schedule, this Portland metro ranch remodel demonstrates how thoughtful design-build remodeling can preserve a home's heritage while adapting it for modern family living. Through strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and quality craftsmanship, a beloved family home was transformed into a bright, functional retreat ready to create decades of new memories.
THE Remodel GroupBuilt in the 1970s by a hardworking family patriarch, this Portland-area ranch home had been the backdrop for generations of memories. When the homeowners inherited the property from their grandparents, they saw an opportunity to honor its history while creating a modern sanctuary for their growing family. Through a thoughtful whole-home renovation, this once dark and compartmentalized ranch was transformed into a bright, open, and welcoming home designed for the next generation.
With a toddler at home and another child on the way, the family's goal was to create spaces that felt connected, functional, and built to last. The heart of the renovation centered on opening the home's main living areas, replacing disconnected rooms with a spacious open-concept kitchen and living room designed for gathering and everyday life. Enlarged windows flood the interior with natural light, while carefully selected finishes bring warmth, durability, and timeless appeal.
The kitchen became the focal point of the transformation. Stock cabinetry was elevated through custom details including floating wood shelves and stained wood-wrapped columns that add warmth and character. At the center, a striking quartz island serves as both a gathering place and a clever structural solution, seamlessly incorporating support elements required for the newly opened floor plan.
Creating this open-concept layout required significant structural modifications, including the removal of six walls, three of them load-bearing. Engineered beams were recessed into the ceiling to maintain clean sightlines, while new footings were carefully installed within the crawlspace to support the redistributed loads. Additional improvements included relocating the furnace to eliminate a major circulation obstacle and installing a new garage access door that required modifications to the existing foundation.
Throughout the project, thoughtful planning helped maximize both budget and performance. Luxury vinyl plank flooring provides the look of hardwood while standing up to children and large pets, while stain-resistant carpeting offers comfort in the bedrooms. Existing window locations were retained and enlarged to increase natural light without the expense of major structural changes. Even the structural columns required for the new beams were integrated into the island design, transforming a necessity into an architectural feature.
Completed two weeks ahead of schedule, this Portland metro ranch remodel demonstrates how thoughtful design-build remodeling can preserve a home's heritage while adapting it for modern family living. Through strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and quality craftsmanship, a beloved family home was transformed into a bright, functional retreat ready to create decades of new memories.
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