Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

The client's bright kitchen easily handles the dark wood cabinetry, offset by the glass doors housing cool blue glassware. The dark granite counters repeat on the island, painted a pale slate blue. An eclectic mix of seating suits the client's vibe. Three shots of the kitchen from various angles highlight the new layout, optimizing the sunny light throughout the day with perfect lighting options for night-time entertaining. Check and check!

Kitchen - contemporary kitchen idea in Chicago

This kitchen is a replacement for a builder island in conjunction with a redesign of an existing desk and replacement of the countertops, backsplash and installation of new detailed soffit. The client wanted to stay within a specific budget and not replace the existing kitchen 100%. Instead she wanted a luxury island and high end appliances to allow her to cook more productively in her space. She wanted the desk space removed as she disliked its cluttered feel and to create a larger kitchen with distinct spaces for cooking, baking, cleanup and storage. The result is a gorgeous “new” kitchen with all the amenities of a six figure kitchen without the costs. Elmwood plywood box, square inset frame - Brighton door, Inset with 1/16” radius (almost square edged) door. Custom pieces that wrapped around one another with decorative posts were modified to maximize the look from all angles, but allow for extra storage on the cooktop side. Overall design provided optimum usage of space for storage. The new island was designed to look like a furniture case piece, and give the entire kitchen an upscale look and feel. Thanks to Elmwood’s custom abilities the client received the best of all worlds - a gigantic island that not only makes a statement, it optimizes the workspace. Form truly followed function here, and maximized all aspects of the resulting space. Appliances include a Wolf cooktop and downdraft vent, Wolf microwave drawer with a Wolf paneled warming drawer below it, paired with a Subzero side-by-side paneled built-in refrigerator and refrigerator drawers, with a Viking double wall oven. Carrera marble tops with a beautiful ogee profile and custom stone backsplashes complete the renovation.

Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

The small angular lakefront site created a difficult design challenge for JRML. We felt that bulk-heading the lake's edge, and designing the floor plan to correspond to the angle would optimize views from the primary rooms. At the client's request, we developed the Craftsman's exterior, while maintaining an open and transitional interior with large expanses of glass to imbibe the lake views. Noteworthy features included a debarked tree column, rustic cork wall, covered porches, balcony and an infinity pool.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

A tasting lounge in this lovely home in Austin, Texas is the perfect place to entertain friends or enjoy a quiet evening alone. The space is comfortable and inviting with a 700-bottle wine cellar as the main focal point. The insulated glass enclosure, treated walls, and ceiling ensure the wines are kept at the optimal temperature and humidity for storage and long-term aging. The mechanical and cooling system is fully self-contained and out of sight. The metal, matte black wine racks are striking against the white marble walls. The label forward, 3-deep display wine racks maximize the use of the space and one row of angled racking are perfect for larger format bottles. This tasting lounge is not only inviting but the perfect balance for form and function.

We are thrilled to unveil our latest bathroom remodeling project, a seamless blend of modern design and functional elegance. Here's a glimpse into the transformation: 1. Contemporary Palette: The choice of a grey color tile sets a sophisticated and neutral backdrop, allowing the features of the bathroom to shine. This hue not only exudes a sense of calm but also complements the contemporary design elements we've incorporated. 2. Warmth Underfoot: One of the standout features of this remodel is the heated flooring that runs under all the tiled areas. This luxurious addition ensures that even on the coldest mornings, your feet are greeted with a warm embrace, elevating the comfort level of the bathroom. 3. Enhanced Layout: Recognizing the need for more convenience, we repositioned the shower and introduced a second toilet room. This not only maximizes the use of space but also ensures that the bathroom can cater to multiple users without any hassle. 4. Dual Shower Spaces: By eliminating two angles in the bathroom's corner, we've carved out space for two distinct shower areas. This design choice not only adds a touch of luxury but also offers a versatile bathing experience tailored to individual preferences. 5. Wet Room Wonder: The shower and tub area now reside within a waterproof wet room. This innovative design ensures that water stays where it's supposed to, eliminating the need for a curb and offering a sleek, uninterrupted flow to the space. 6. Floating Vanities: Our floating vanities are more than just a design statement. They create an illusion of space, making the bathroom appear larger and more open. Paired with a stunning stone backsplash, they offer a perfect blend of style and functionality. 7. Illuminated Elegance: The mirrors, with their integrated lights, are the pièce de résistance. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom but also ensure optimal lighting, making daily grooming tasks a breeze. This bathroom remodel is a testament to our commitment to marrying design with functionality. Every element, from the choice of tiles to the heated floors, has been thoughtfully chosen to create a space that is not just visually appealing but also supremely functional and comfortable. We invite you to step in and experience this modern oasis for yourself.

Photo credit Michael Moran. The design for this client’s “dream house on the water” capitalizes on every opportunity to incorporate views of the Long Island Sound within the home. The placement and expanse of the fir windows and sliding doors underscore the water’s proximity. The interior gathering space spills out onto the raised outdoor deck and lap pool overlooking the seawall. Reducing the house’s carbon footprint is another priority, accomplished by generating renewable energy on site. The precise angle of the house on the property is calculated for optimal solar energy production by the rooftop photovoltaic panels and a geothermal system installed under the driveway provides heating and cooling for the house. Due to the fact that the site is located on a floodplain, the ground floor of the house is raised and no basement is allowed. This presents a challenge in terms of carving out enough storage space in the main house that one might normally relegate to a basement. Rooms are efficiently sized and serve multiple functions and storage is built-in wherever possible.

Photo credit Jane Beiles The design for this client’s “dream house on the water” capitalizes on every opportunity to incorporate views of the Long Island Sound within the home. The placement and expanse of the fir windows and sliding doors underscore the water’s proximity. The interior gathering space spills out onto the raised outdoor deck and lap pool overlooking the seawall. Reducing the house’s carbon footprint is another priority, accomplished by generating renewable energy on site. The precise angle of the house on the property is calculated for optimal solar energy production by the rooftop photovoltaic panels and a geothermal system installed under the driveway provides heating and cooling for the house. Due to the fact that the site is located on a floodplain, the ground floor of the house is raised and no basement is allowed. This presents a challenge in terms of carving out enough storage space in the main house that one might normally relegate to a basement. Rooms are efficiently sized and serve multiple functions and storage is built-in wherever possible.

The owners wanted a space, which could house and showcase their substantial art collection. Boldly turning the floor plan’s wall angles out of parallel to the exterior building envelope and creating a sculptural rounded room allowed for interesting continuous flow through the space and an intriguing visual play from one room to the next. The lighting, shade control, and ceiling heights were all optimally designed to showcase the artwork. Likewise, the simple yet tasteful furnishings do not compete with the art. The finished residence creates a modern living space that showcases the owners' love for art. Photography by AntonGrassl/Esto

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Spice pull-out with curved lower shelf allows for optimal storage on each side of the gas cooktop. Photo Credit: Nar Fine Carpentry, Inc.
Inspiration for a mid-sized craftsman u-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen remodel in Sacramento with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and two islands

Angled shot showing the symmetrical dual-sink layout of the floating vanity, optimized for shared morning grooming use for two people. Suspended cabinet design eliminates floor dead corners for easy mopping and moisture prevention, matching the moisture-resistant requirements of Japanese household bathrooms. Textured stone accent wall adds layered tactile detail to plain wall space, balancing minimalist simplicity and decorative sophistication for this residential bathroom renovation project.

The owners wanted a space, which could house and showcase their substantial art collection. Boldly turning the floor plan’s wall angles out of parallel to the exterior building envelope and creating a sculptural rounded room allowed for interesting continuous flow through the space and an intriguing visual play from one room to the next. The lighting, shade control, and ceiling heights were all optimally designed to showcase the artwork. Likewise, the simple yet tasteful furnishings do not compete with the art. The finished residence creates a modern living space that showcases the owners' love for art. Photography by AntonGrassl/Esto

We are thrilled to unveil our latest bathroom remodeling project, a seamless blend of modern design and functional elegance. Here's a glimpse into the transformation: 1. Contemporary Palette: The choice of a grey color tile sets a sophisticated and neutral backdrop, allowing the features of the bathroom to shine. This hue not only exudes a sense of calm but also complements the contemporary design elements we've incorporated. 2. Warmth Underfoot: One of the standout features of this remodel is the heated flooring that runs under all the tiled areas. This luxurious addition ensures that even on the coldest mornings, your feet are greeted with a warm embrace, elevating the comfort level of the bathroom. 3. Enhanced Layout: Recognizing the need for more convenience, we repositioned the shower and introduced a second toilet room. This not only maximizes the use of space but also ensures that the bathroom can cater to multiple users without any hassle. 4. Dual Shower Spaces: By eliminating two angles in the bathroom's corner, we've carved out space for two distinct shower areas. This design choice not only adds a touch of luxury but also offers a versatile bathing experience tailored to individual preferences. 5. Wet Room Wonder: The shower and tub area now reside within a waterproof wet room. This innovative design ensures that water stays where it's supposed to, eliminating the need for a curb and offering a sleek, uninterrupted flow to the space. 6. Floating Vanities: Our floating vanities are more than just a design statement. They create an illusion of space, making the bathroom appear larger and more open. Paired with a stunning stone backsplash, they offer a perfect blend of style and functionality. 7. Illuminated Elegance: The mirrors, with their integrated lights, are the pièce de résistance. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom but also ensure optimal lighting, making daily grooming tasks a breeze. This bathroom remodel is a testament to our commitment to marrying design with functionality. Every element, from the choice of tiles to the heated floors, has been thoughtfully chosen to create a space that is not just visually appealing but also supremely functional and comfortable. We invite you to step in and experience this modern oasis for yourself.

Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

Display your favorite books with style with the SoHo 4 Tier Bookcase from Convenience Concepts. Boasting a sleek modern contemporary style, this bookshelf will upgrade your living room, dorm or home study. Optimize your storage and display space with this multifunctional storage unit and its 4 spacious tiers. The top is crafted from hollow core while the bottom tiers are made from particle board and finished with a rich textured melamine veneer, this office staple is built for longevity. Its tempered clear glass sides offer incredible support while creating a magical illusion that the shelves are floating, making this bookcase a sparkling addition to any room. Enjoy right after delivery with its easy 3-step assembly. Look for additional pieces from the SoHo Collection from Convenience Concepts, each sold separately.