Wood beams can be a decorative structural element of the home’s design or a later addition for ornamental purposes. Either way, they have rustic, countrified appeal and offer the look of longevity. You have a few ways to incorporate beams into the ceiling, doorways and built-ins.

The double sinks in this primary ensuite offer plenty of storage, clean countertops and room for two. With a full walk-in shower, freestanding bathtub and enclosed toilet space, this bathroom is the epitome of relaxation and beauty

The double sinks in this primary ensuite offer plenty of storage, clean countertops and room for two. With a full walk-in shower, freestanding bathtub and enclosed toilet space, this bathroom is the epitome of relaxation and beauty

This comfortable living room boasts mahogany wood ceiling beam details with white paneling above. Light floods the space from expansive and transom windows above. The fireplace surround was custom designed with concrete and stone detailing and is adorned with a wood mantle. Walnut built-ins flank the fireplace and offer both decorative display and storage space.

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life. The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time. The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room. Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage. Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee. We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces. In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color. The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook! Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home. The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client. Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients! We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms. This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

A fun guest room with 6 white custom-built bunks featuring striped bedding, built-in storage, and rope ladders. Photo by Ashley Avila Photography
Inspiration for a bedroom and large coastal guest and gender-neutral carpeted and gray floor kids' bedroom remodel in Grand Rapids with gray walls

Upon moving to a new home, this couple chose to convert two small guest baths into one large luxurious space including a Japanese soaking tub and custom glass shower with rainfall spout. Two floating vanities in a walnut finish topped with composite countertops and integrated sinks flank each wall. Due to the pitched walls, Barbara worked with both an industrial designer and mirror manufacturer to design special clips to mount the vanity mirrors, creating a unique and modern solution in a challenging space. The mix of travertine floor tiles with glossy cream wainscotting tiles creates a warm and inviting feel in this bathroom. Glass fronted shelving built into the eaves offers extra storage for towels and accessories. A oil-rubbed bronze finish lantern hangs from the dramatic ceiling while matching finish sconces add task lighting to the vanity areas. This project was featured in Boston Magazine Home Design section entitiled "Spaces: Bathing Beauty" in the March 2018 issue. Click here for a link to the article: ​ https://www.bostonmagazine.com/property/2018/03/27/elza-b-design-bathroom-transformation/ Photography: Jared Kuzia

This Chicago IL bungalow’s kitchen was ready for an update. And update it we did – right in to the world of contemporary design. The custom cabinets are in Cherry wood, with a rich Café Mocha stain. Our palette of warm mocha, cream, sand and taupe is presented in the quartz countertops, as well as the glass tile. To add interest, the tile was run on the vertical, offering the opportunity for longer, unbroken lines. This modern point of view continues with the hood, faucet, and the pendant light above the sink. Storage is an issue in these older homes, and the cabinetry was built to fill every available inch. Hidden behind the lovely cherry doors are storage built-ins, and the island offers large drawers and roll-trays. Bright, sleek, and sophisticated; the cabinetry, tile and quartz countertops create a modern yet warm space.

Property marketed by Hudson Place Realty - Classically elegant 2 bedroom 2 bath condo offers a 560 sq. ft. private terrace and deeded parking. Unique in design & completely customized, this exceptional home features fabulous made to order built-ins, crown & picture frame moldings, exquisite doors and inlaid designer floors. Spectacular over-sized kitchen with 42” cabinetry finished with a refined crown molding, stainless steel appliances, granite counters and additional pantry. Master bedroom with en suite bath & large walk in closet. Second bath has custom wainscoting & soaking tub. Other amenities include central air conditioning, Bose speakers, recessed lighting, California style closets and laundry room in home. Building offers onsite gym and community room.

Property marketed by Hudson Place Realty - Classically elegant 2 bedroom 2 bath condo offers a 560 sq. ft. private terrace and deeded parking. Unique in design & completely customized, this exceptional home features fabulous made to order built-ins, crown & picture frame moldings, exquisite doors and inlaid designer floors. Spectacular over-sized kitchen with 42” cabinetry finished with a refined crown molding, stainless steel appliances, granite counters and additional pantry. Master bedroom with en suite bath & large walk in closet. Second bath has custom wainscoting & soaking tub. Other amenities include central air conditioning, Bose speakers, recessed lighting, California style closets and laundry room in home. Building offers onsite gym and community room.

The Carving Studio includes a sink, work bench, TV, spot lighting from recessed cans, and decorative general lighting. The cabinets offer storage for items, such as grinders, power tool sharpeners, and hand tools, and for conveniences, such as laptops and printers.

Our design studio completely transformed this California ranch with a light and airy palette highlighted with warm accents and an inviting, family-friendly ambience. All the living areas in the home are bathed in natural light and feature comfortable, functional furniture like cozy yet elegant sectionals. Floor-to-ceiling built-ins house the TVs and offer storage and display areas. The black-and-white fireplace is a design focal point with a decorative mirror flanked by sleek wall lights. Spacious white cabinetry provides abundant storage in the kitchen, and the light palette is complemented with gold pendants and fixtures. The bedrooms and bathrooms are oases of calm, offering luxurious retreats to unwind and rejuvenate. --- Project designed by Vienna interior design studio Amy Peltier Interior Design & Home. They serve Mclean, Vienna, Bethesda, DC, Potomac, Great Falls, Chevy Chase, Rockville, Oakton, Alexandria, and the surrounding area. --- For more about Amy Peltier Interior Design & Home, click here: https://peltierinteriors.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://peltierinteriors.com/portfolio/california-ranch-luxury-interior-design/

At Inglenook of Carmel, residents share common outdoor courtyards and pedestrian-friendly pathways where they can see one another during the comings and goings of the day, creating meaningful friendships and a true sense of community. Designed by renowned architect Ross Chapin, Inglenook of Carmel offers a range of two-, three-, and four-bedroom Cottage Home designs. From the colorful exterior paint and private flowerboxes to the custom built-ins and detailed design, each home is unique, just like the community.

Capitol City Homes family room design offers a large open concept with stunning hardwood floors and lots of natural light. Built-in storage is located next to the fireplace and perfect for storing entertainment equipment out of sight.

Inspiration for a country bathroom remodel in Sacramento

Property marketed by Hudson Place Realty - Classically elegant 2 bedroom 2 bath condo offers a 560 sq. ft. private terrace and deeded parking. Unique in design & completely customized, this exceptional home features fabulous made to order built-ins, crown & picture frame moldings, exquisite doors and inlaid designer floors. Spectacular over-sized kitchen with 42” cabinetry finished with a refined crown molding, stainless steel appliances, granite counters and additional pantry. Master bedroom with en suite bath & large walk in closet. Second bath has custom wainscoting & soaking tub. Other amenities include central air conditioning, Bose speakers, recessed lighting, California style closets and laundry room in home. Building offers onsite gym and community room.

I have a thing for designing and stylizing built ins! I love how they are a practical storage solution, neatly being tucked in between two walls, yet offer the opportunity to showcase beautiful decorations, photos and book collections! The unexpected detail; the dark gray backdrop, allowing the objects to pop even more.

This sophisticated home office balances functionality with a timeless aesthetic. Lime-washed walls create a warm backdrop for the natural wood built-ins and classic furnishings. A clay velvet desk chair pairs beautifully with the antique-style writing desk, while a floral-patterned armchair offers a cozy spot for reading. Layered decor on the shelves adds personality and charm, and a plush rug anchors the space, making it both practical and inspiring—a perfect place to work or reflect.