PHOTO: Richard D'Angelo, CraftPro Contracting LLC owner-operator BEFORE & AFTER: View from upstairs hallway. SCOPE OF WORK: The main staircase that faces the entry door of this home in Madison, NJ (07940) was redone with new boxed newel posts, balusters and handrails. The existing inner and outer stringers and the risers were old stained wood. The homeowners wanted the staircase – a main focal point from three areas: the entry, the kitchen and the living room – to look a little more modern. CraftPro was brought in to refinish the existing parts of this staircase and paint and stain the new work. Details and more photos of this staircase finishing home improvement project are on our website at http://www.craftprocontracting.com/portfolio/madison-nj-staircase-painting-staining/. We also painted a closet, some bathroom trim, touched-up areas of the hallway walls and more.

We completely updated this home from the outside to the inside. Every room was touched because the owner wanted to make it very sell-able. Our job was to lighten, brighten and do as many updates as we could on a shoe string budget. We started with the outside and we cleared the lakefront so that the lakefront view was open to the house. We also trimmed the large trees in the front and really opened the house up, before we painted the home and freshen up the landscaping. Inside we painted the house in a white duck color and updated the existing wood trim to a modern white color. We also installed shiplap on the TV wall and white washed the existing Fireplace brick. We installed lighting over the kitchen soffit as well as updated the can lighting. We then updated all 3 bathrooms. We finished it off with custom barn doors in the newly created office as well as the master bedroom. We completed the look with custom furniture!

This lovely home already featured windows with dark wood trim and Spanish style features. Our design team played off of these beautiful existing features and stained the hardwood floors dark to match the wood window trim, painted the walls a rich cream color and added a modern stucco finish to the two-sided fireplace. We also custom designed and fabricated gorgeous wrought iron light fixtures to honor the architectural style of this impressive modern Spanish home. For the furnishings, we incorporated some of the client's existing oil paintings and added layers of blue and white pottery and oriental wool rugs to further enhance the owner's lovely furnishings from her travels around the world.

PHOTO: Richard D'Angelo, CraftPro Contracting LLC owner-operator - http://www.craftprocontracting.com VIEW: Entry door. Staircase is the main focal point upon entry. SCOPE OF WORK: The main staircase that faces the entry door of this home in Madison, NJ (07940) was redone with new boxed newel posts, balusters and handrails. The existing inner and outer stringers and the risers were old stained wood. The homeowners wanted the staircase – a main focal point from three areas: the entry, the kitchen and the living room – to look a little more modern. CraftPro was brought in to refinish the existing parts of this staircase and paint and stain the new work. We also painted a closet, some bathroom trim, touched-up areas of the hallway walls and more. Details and more photos of this staircase finishing home improvement project are on our website at http://www.craftprocontracting.com/portfolio/madison-nj-staircase-painting-staining/.

The spa-like master bathroom features neutral colors that are accented with brilliant Cambria® Canterberry Quartz countertops and a combination of stone, marble and glass mosaic tile. The sloped ceiling features a realistic sky mural. Mirror-mounted sconces amplify the light as the new cabinetry makes the most of the high ceiling. A dedicated drawer for hair appliances is extra deep and has a built-in electrical strip and a tile base to prevent scorching. The zero-entry shower gives a seamless look to the oblong tiles. Multiple tile mosaics in neutral colors add visual texture and interest. The faux painted ceiling lift the eye to the sloped ceiling. Julie Austin Photography (www.julieaustinphotography.com)

This Carrera Marble Counter Top was installed replacing the cultured marble sink and bright chrome faucets. A new undermount sink in a rectangle shape was installed. Plug on Left was moved up to compensate for the higher backsplash. The Backsplash was designed to compliment the original tile work in the shower. The two inch quarter rounds were custom cut to match existing decorative tiles in the shower, giving the space a cohesive look.

My clients wanted to update their master bathroom and achieve more privacy between the bathroom and bedroom. Countertop, sink and tub/shower to shower only updates were also desired. To separate, but not block light coming into the shower area, I designed a tall storage cabinet to finish the end of built-in shelving. Between the cabinet and the wall near the shower, I designed for a glass panel or art glass to be installed to provide privacy, but allow light to penetrate. The existing tub/shower was removed and a beautiful tiled shower with niche was installed. This allows my clients a near barrier-free shower. The mosaic liner (decorative) tile in the shower and niche were continued onto the vanity as a backsplash to tie the space together. The countertops were updated with Silestone Quartz. Rectangle undermount sinks in off-white to match the existing toilet were installed along with oil-rubbed bronze faucets. The flooring was also updated to define the bathroom from the bedroom. I completed this project with Thayer Construction, LLC.

My clients wanted to update their master bathroom and achieve more privacy between the bathroom and bedroom. Countertop, sink and tub/shower to shower only updates were also desired. To separate, but not block light coming into the shower area, I designed a tall storage cabinet to finish the end of built-in shelving. Between the cabinet and the wall near the shower, I designed for a glass panel or art glass to be installed to provide privacy, but allow light to penetrate. The existing tub/shower was removed and a beautiful tiled shower with niche was installed. This allows my clients a near barrier-free shower. The mosaic liner (decorative) tile in the shower and niche were continued onto the vanity as a backsplash to tie the space together. The countertops were updated with Silestone Quartz. Rectangle undermount sinks in off-white to match the existing toilet were installed along with oil-rubbed bronze faucets. The flooring was also updated to define the bathroom from the bedroom. I completed this project with Thayer Construction, LLC.

This project was completed for clients who wanted a comfortable, accessible 1ST floor bathroom for their grown daughter to use during visits to their home as well as a nicely-appointed space for any guest. Their daughter has some accessibility challenges so the bathroom was also designed with that in mind. The original space worked fairly well in some ways, but we were able to tweak a few features to make the space even easier to maneuver through. We started by making the entry to the shower flush so that there is no curb to step over. In addition, although there was an existing oversized seat in the shower, it was way too deep and not comfortable to sit on and just wasted space. We made the shower a little smaller and then provided a fold down teak seat that is slip resistant, warm and comfortable to sit on and can flip down only when needed. Thus we were able to create some additional storage by way of open shelving to the left of the shower area. The open shelving matches the wood vanity and allows a spot for the homeowners to display heirlooms as well as practical storage for things like towels and other bath necessities. We carefully measured all the existing heights and locations of countertops, toilet seat, and grab bars to make sure that we did not undo the things that were already working well. We added some additional hidden grab bars or “grabcessories” at the toilet paper holder and shower shelf for an extra layer of assurance. Large format, slip-resistant floor tile was added eliminating as many grout lines as possible making the surface less prone to tripping. We used a wood look tile as an accent on the walls, and open storage in the vanity allowing for easy access for clean towels. Bronze fixtures and frameless glass shower doors add an elegant yet homey feel that was important for the homeowner. A pivot mirror allows adjustability for different users. If you are interested in designing a bathroom featuring “Living In Place” or accessibility features, give us a call to find out more. Susan Klimala, CKBD, is a Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS) and particularly enjoys helping her clients with unique needs in the context of beautifully designed spaces. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel

In their third remodel with us, this young family wanted to update their craftsman bungalow kitchen. The existing kitchen already opened up into the dining room from one of our previous renovations. However, the kitchen still lacked adequate counter space and attractive, functional storage. This project started with an aesthetic compromise– he wanted a stainless steel kitchen, she wanted a more traditional style. The final result has modern lines and smooth surfaces, combined with natural variation and texture. Handmade ceramic tiles from North Prairie Tile add a touch of rustic warmth. The rift-sawn white-oak has a more subdued pattern than the usual plain sawn oak. Before the renovation, a free standing island added storage and counter space to the kitchen. This design added a built-in version of this makeshift solution. The new transitional cabinet is custom built to match the existing buffet in the dining room, and keeps dishes and tools out of sight. A continuous London Grey granite counter top provides enough work space to make cooking and entertaining easy. Custom stainless steel shelves near the range are easy to clean and keep messy oils within reach. Photography by Troy Thies Design: Joseph Metzler / SALA Architects

Kitchen remodeling project where the homeowners elected to upgrade their kitchen to a more traditional look by refacing the existing cabinets. They went with a raised panel shaker lowland door done in Maple in an eggshell color by Walzcraft. We then installed a quartz Hans collection countertop in off white and a Nocciola Pietra Romana series glass tile and stone backsplash. We also installed large crown molding at the top of the cabinets, an engineered wood floor, a blind corner storage pull out and installed new drawer boxes. To complete the new look we installed Cairo hardware in brushed oil rubbed bronze from Hardware Resources.

Kitchen remodeling project where the homeowners elected to upgrade their kitchen to a more traditional look by refacing the existing cabinets. They went with a raised panel shaker lowland door done in Maple in an eggshell color by Walzcraft. We then installed a quartz Hans collection countertop in off white and a Nocciola Pietra Romana series glass tile and stone backsplash. We also installed large crown molding at the top of the cabinets, an engineered wood floor, a blind corner storage pull out and installed new drawer boxes. To complete the new look we installed Cairo hardware in brushed oil rubbed bronze from Hardware Resources.

Kitchen remodeling project where the homeowners elected to upgrade their kitchen to a more traditional look by refacing the existing cabinets. They went with a raised panel shaker lowland door done in Maple in an eggshell color by Walzcraft. We then installed a quartz Hans collection countertop in off white and a Nocciola Pietra Romana series glass tile and stone backsplash. We also installed large crown molding at the top of the cabinets, an engineered wood floor, a blind corner storage pull out and installed new drawer boxes. To complete the new look we installed Cairo hardware in brushed oil rubbed bronze from Hardware Resources.

Walls - application of multi-layer distressed plaster, modeling faux bricks. Mural “Tuscany View”, painted directly on the wall. Oil painting “Italian Coast” on canvas, painted in studio. Trim was grained to match the existing distressed wood on doors and cabinetry. Floor bricks were aged.

Kitchen remodeling project where the homeowners elected to upgrade their kitchen to a more traditional look by refacing the existing cabinets. They went with a raised panel shaker lowland door done in Maple in an eggshell color by Walzcraft. We then installed a quartz Hans collection countertop in off white and a Nocciola Pietra Romana series glass tile and stone backsplash. We also installed large crown molding at the top of the cabinets, an engineered wood floor, a blind corner storage pull out and installed new drawer boxes. To complete the new look we installed Cairo hardware in brushed oil rubbed bronze from Hardware Resources.

In their third remodel with us, this young family wanted to update their craftsman bungalow kitchen. The existing kitchen already opened up into the dining room from one of our previous renovations. However, the kitchen still lacked adequate counter space and attractive, functional storage. This project started with an aesthetic compromise– he wanted a stainless steel kitchen, she wanted a more traditional style. The final result has modern lines and smooth surfaces, combined with natural variation and texture. Handmade ceramic tiles from North Prairie Tile add a touch of rustic warmth. The rift-sawn white-oak has a more subdued pattern than the usual plain sawn oak. Before the renovation, a free standing island added storage and counter space to the kitchen. This design added a built-in version of this makeshift solution. The new transitional cabinet is custom built to match the existing buffet in the dining room, and keeps dishes and tools out of sight. A continuous London Grey granite counter top provides enough work space to make cooking and entertaining easy. Custom stainless steel shelves near the range are easy to clean and keep messy oils within reach. Photography by Troy Thies Design: Joseph Metzler / SALA Architects

The kitchen in this 1950’s home needed a complete overhaul. It was dark, outdated and inefficient. The homeowners wanted to give the space a modern feel without losing the 50’s vibe that is consistent throughout the rest of the home. The homeowner’s needs included: - Working within a fixed space, though reconfiguring or moving walls was okay - Incorporating work space for two chefs - Creating a mudroom - Maintaining the existing laundry chute - A concealed trash receptacle The new kitchen makes use of every inch of space. To maximize counter and cabinet space, we closed in a second exit door and removed a wall between the kitchen and family room. This allowed us to create two L shaped workspaces and an eat-in bar space. A new mudroom entrance was gained by capturing space from an existing closet next to the main exit door. The industrial lighting fixtures and wrought iron hardware bring a modern touch to this retro space. Inset doors on cabinets and beadboard details replicate details found throughout the rest of this 50’s era house.

In their third remodel with us, this young family wanted to update their craftsman bungalow kitchen. The existing kitchen already opened up into the dining room from one of our previous renovations. However, the kitchen still lacked adequate counter space and attractive, functional storage. This project started with an aesthetic compromise– he wanted a stainless steel kitchen, she wanted a more traditional style. The final result has modern lines and smooth surfaces, combined with natural variation and texture. Handmade ceramic tiles from North Prairie Tile add a touch of rustic warmth. The rift-sawn white-oak has a more subdued pattern than the usual plain sawn oak. Before the renovation, a free standing island added storage and counter space to the kitchen. This design added a built-in version of this makeshift solution. The new transitional cabinet is custom built to match the existing buffet in the dining room, and keeps dishes and tools out of sight. A continuous London Grey granite counter top provides enough work space to make cooking and entertaining easy. Custom stainless steel shelves near the range are easy to clean and keep messy oils within reach. Photography by Troy Thies Design: Joseph Metzler / SALA Architects

An original, one-of-a-kind design for a complete kitchen transformation! Existing cabinet boxes were repainted, glazed, and topcoated in a lovely cream color with a mocha glaze. We added new, custom cabinet doors, painted and glazed to match, as well as new hardware in oil-rubbed bronze. Custom etched glass inserts were added to a few cabinet doors to bring interest and charm. The under-sink cabinets were modified to accommodate a new farmhouse sink. We installed chic Antico Bianco countertops throughout the kitchen. The backsplash is an elegant cracked glass subway tile. New crown molding was installed and we continued the look throughout the open concept area by painting the built in bookcases in the living area to match the crown molding, and using the same hardware as on the kitchen cabinets. This gives the space a sense of cohesion. New paint brightened up the space and the look was pulled together by the materials that were selected and installed, including new, modern pendant lighting and matching chandelier, classic oil rubbed bronze drape rods, and sophisticated plum drapes. The new light fixtures help create a dynamic view from any angle. The acid washed concrete style porcelain floors are carried throughout the kitchen and breakfast nook area, and are used as the floor molding as well. The finish of the flooring adds a subtle lustre that changes with the light.