Our NYC studio designed this gorgeous condo for a family of four with the goal of maximizing space in a modest amount of square footage. A custom sectional in the living room was created to accommodate the family without feeling overcrowded, while the son's bedroom features a custom Murphy bed to optimize space during the day. To fulfill the daughter's wish for fairy lighting, an entire wall of them was installed behind her bed, casting a beautiful glow at night. In the kitchen, we added plenty of cabinets below the island for maximum efficiency. Storage units were incorporated in the bedroom and living room to house the TV and showcase decorative items. Additionally, the tub in the powder room was removed to create an additional closet for much-needed storage space.

This kitchen gained several square feet when an addition was put on the end of the house. A door was located in the kitchen area to eliminate corner cabinetry, and create a streamlined design that fully optimized counter and storage space. Cabinetry: Custom Cupboards Quartz Counters: Busch Products Photography Credit: James Conrad

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Designer: udvari-solner design company http://www.udvari-solner.com Photo: Chris Joyner Studio http://www.chrisjoynerstudio.com This project features Weiland lift & slide doors with Marvin windows.

To optimize the views of the lake and maximize natural ventilation this 8,600 square-foot woodland oasis accomplishes just that and more. A selection of local materials of varying scales for the exterior and interior finishes, complements the surrounding environment and boast a welcoming setting for all to enjoy. A perfect combination of skirl siding and hand dipped shingles unites the exterior palette and allows for the interior finishes of aged pine paneling and douglas fir trim to define the space. This residence, houses a main-level master suite, a guest suite, and two upper-level bedrooms. An open-concept scheme creates a kitchen, dining room, living room and screened porch perfect for large family gatherings at the lake. Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful lake views from the expansive deck or curled up next to the natural stone fireplace, this stunning lodge offers a wide variety of spatial experiences. Photographer: Joseph St. Pierre

A classically styled pocket pass through respects the architecture of this 1920's home while optimizing family interaction and easy access to the family dining space. Doors close for intimate dining and are completely hidden away when opened.

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The client’s brief was to create a space reminiscent of their beloved downtown Chicago industrial loft, in a rural farm setting, while incorporating their unique collection of vintage and architectural salvage. The result is a custom designed space that blends life on the farm with an industrial sensibility. The new house is located on approximately the same footprint as the original farm house on the property. Barely visible from the road due to the protection of conifer trees and a long driveway, the house sits on the edge of a field with views of the neighbouring 60 acre farm and creek that runs along the length of the property. The main level open living space is conceived as a transparent social hub for viewing the landscape. Large sliding glass doors create strong visual connections with an adjacent barn on one end and a mature black walnut tree on the other. The house is situated to optimize views, while at the same time protecting occupants from blazing summer sun and stiff winter winds. The wall to wall sliding doors on the south side of the main living space provide expansive views to the creek, and allow for breezes to flow throughout. The wrap around aluminum louvered sun shade tempers the sun. The subdued exterior material palette is defined by horizontal wood siding, standing seam metal roofing and large format polished concrete blocks. The interiors were driven by the owners’ desire to have a home that would properly feature their unique vintage collection, and yet have a modern open layout. Polished concrete floors and steel beams on the main level set the industrial tone and are paired with a stainless steel island counter top, backsplash and industrial range hood in the kitchen. An old drinking fountain is built-in to the mudroom millwork, carefully restored bi-parting doors frame the library entrance, and a vibrant antique stained glass panel is set into the foyer wall allowing diffused coloured light to spill into the hallway. Upstairs, refurbished claw foot tubs are situated to view the landscape. The double height library with mezzanine serves as a prominent feature and quiet retreat for the residents. The white oak millwork exquisitely displays the homeowners’ vast collection of books and manuscripts. The material palette is complemented by steel counter tops, stainless steel ladder hardware and matte black metal mezzanine guards. The stairs carry the same language, with white oak open risers and stainless steel woven wire mesh panels set into a matte black steel frame. The overall effect is a truly sublime blend of an industrial modern aesthetic punctuated by personal elements of the owners’ storied life. Photography: James Brittain

Building a dropped soffit around the perimeter of the room for lighting and moulding details, as well as adding trim details to the existing fireplace, mounting the TV for optimal viewing, and updated interior design makes this bedroom space a true Master Suite.

Time had stood still at this 1970s ranch in Armonk when the owners invited us to collaborate with them to transform it into a modern, light-filled home for their young family. The budget was lean, so economy was a primary consideration for every design decision. The challenge was to identify the modest home’s virtues – vaulted ceilings and a lovely backyard – and accentuate them by strategically optimizing available funds. We were tasked with rectifying a dysfunctional interior stair, connecting to the outdoors with new large windows, and updating the exterior. We focused our attention on a finite set of architectural moves which would have the biggest impact and improve our clients’ daily experience of the home. Detailing was kept simple, using common grade materials and standard components. All exterior walls were revamped with new windows and siding. Although these materials were not particularly costly, thoughtful layout of boards, battens, and openings produced a cohesive, rigorous composition at each facade. Since the budget would not cover the homeowners’ complete wish list, some items were bracketed for subsequent phases. The challenge was to establish a framework that would allow future work – including a new roof and kitchen renovation – to proceed smoothly. The homeowners, both scientists, were enthusiastic collaborators, contributing their outstanding design sensibilities to selection of fixtures and finishes. Construction ended just in time for the arrival of their baby – and with that, the transformation of their family home was complete.

The 7,600 square-foot residence was designed for large, memorable gatherings of family and friends at the lake, as well as creating private spaces for smaller family gatherings. Keeping in dialogue with the surrounding site, a palette of natural materials and finishes was selected to provide a classic backdrop for all activities, bringing importance to the adjoining environment. In optimizing the views of the lake and developing a strategy to maximize natural ventilation, an ideal, open-concept living scheme was implemented. The kitchen, dining room, living room and screened porch are connected, allowing for the large family gatherings to take place inside, should the weather not cooperate. Two main level master suites remain private from the rest of the program; yet provide a complete sense of incorporation. Bringing the natural finishes to the interior of the residence, provided the opportunity for unique focal points that complement the stunning stone fireplace and timber trusses. Photographer: MTA

Our NYC studio designed this gorgeous condo for a family of four with the goal of maximizing space in a modest amount of square footage. A custom sectional in the living room was created to accommodate the family without feeling overcrowded, while the son's bedroom features a custom Murphy bed to optimize space during the day. To fulfill the daughter's wish for fairy lighting, an entire wall of them was installed behind her bed, casting a beautiful glow at night. In the kitchen, we added plenty of cabinets below the island for maximum efficiency. Storage units were incorporated in the bedroom and living room to house the TV and showcase decorative items. Additionally, the tub in the powder room was removed to create an additional closet for much-needed storage space.

Rodwin Architecture and Skycastle Homes Location: Boulder, Colorado, United States We helped the clients find a beautiful lot in North Boulder, then crafted this modern 3,300 s.f. house to be their dream home. The clients asked for a warm modern style home, with an open floor plan that connected to the outdoors and took full advantage of the rare lot. We sited and engineered the house for optimal passive solar design, while simultaneously capturing unobstructed panoramic views of the Flatirons from both levels. The home’s simple, clean lines reflect their unpretentious, easy-going character. The gourmet kitchen, dining and Great room are flooded with sunshine from the 9ft high ceilings and walls of glass. A gracious covered west porch flows seamlessly out from the Great room through a giant bank of sliding doors, creating a fantastic opportunity for indoor/outdoor living. The porch has solid cedar columns and Beetle-kill wood on the ceiling to create a warm feeling. On the ground floor, walk past the front hall to reach a guest suite and a rec room that is divided between a small media room for the boys and a north facing painting studio. Follow the stair to the second floor where you’ll immediately be presented with a stunning view from the open study and balcony. All the bedrooms get a south facing Flatiron view and the master has its own private balcony. The owners wanted the HERS 37 house to be as green as possible, and the house has tiny energy and water bills as well as a healthy indoor air environment. It features solar photovoltaic panels, Energy Star fiberglass windows, foam insulation, LED lights, Watersense plumbing fixtures, a 96% efficient furnace & zero-VOC finishes. Learn more about it and its artistic owners in Boulder Home & Garden Magazine Built by Skycastle Construction.

Our clients, a couple with four children, wanted to update their 1952 home with a mid-century feel, focusing on the main floor. The renovation emphasized enhancing finishes, optimizing storage, and maximizing seating in the dining and living areas. The entryway was designed to be inviting and practical, while the living room featured a statement sectional and a stunning terrazzo fireplace. The kitchen and dining area were transformed to be both functional and elegant, with playful touches like “Drunk Monkeys” wallpaper in the powder room.

This grand and historic home renovation transformed the structure from the ground up, creating a versatile, multifunctional space. Meticulous planning and creative design brought the client's vision to life, optimizing functionality throughout. The family room exudes comfort with cozy furnishings complemented by warm, luxurious accents. A sizable TV and striking artwork draw attention, while a gorgeous stone center table commands focus.

These great cooks needed a space that allowed for entertaining and multiple work zones. Storage was optimized and is efficient with pull-outs and dividers. The kitchen has almost doubled in size and now includes two dishwashers for easy clean up. Lighting was appointed with sparkling pendants, task lighting under cabinets and even the island has a soft glow. A happy space with room to work and entertain. Photo: DeMane Design Winner: 1st Place ASID WA, Large Kitchen

The stylish modern condominium shown above is the work of Tiffany and Ryan Otte. The couple owns a general contracting construction company, ROC Home Pros, based in St. Paul, Minnesota. This is the sixth project where they have teamed with CliqStudios designer Melissa Thill to create kitchens for urban dwellers. An open kitchen, always on stage, needs to blend with the living area and offer a visual feast. In the modern condo pictured, the clean profile and smooth texture of gray slab door cabinets optimize visual space.

Our NYC studio designed this gorgeous condo for a family of four with the goal of maximizing space in a modest amount of square footage. A custom sectional in the living room was created to accommodate the family without feeling overcrowded, while the son's bedroom features a custom Murphy bed to optimize space during the day. To fulfill the daughter's wish for fairy lighting, an entire wall of them was installed behind her bed, casting a beautiful glow at night. In the kitchen, we added plenty of cabinets below the island for maximum efficiency. Storage units were incorporated in the bedroom and living room to house the TV and showcase decorative items. Additionally, the tub in the powder room was removed to create an additional closet for much-needed storage space.

THE SETUP Client Background: Our clients, a couple who have transitioned into the empty nest phase, have cherished their home for over three decades without undergoing any significant renovations. With a newfound desire to adapt their living space to better suit their current lifestyle, they’ve embarked on a journey to reimagine their kitchen — the heart of their home. Their aspiration is to cultivate a serene, neutral-toned sanctuary on the first floor that seamlessly merges with their family room, ensuring a harmonious and inviting environment. Design Inspiration: The renovation is inspired by the couple’s penchant for soft, calming neutrals, using their cherished family room and the kitchen’s existing tile flooring as the cornerstone for the color scheme. This approach aims to foster a sense of warmth and tranquility throughout. Design Objectives: Harmonize the kitchen with the family room by adopting a soothing, neutral color scheme, ensuring a seamless flow across the first floor. Enhance kitchen functionality with thoughtfully designed cabinetry, providing a designated place for every item and maximizing storage efficiency. Cultivate an inviting and comfortable atmosphere that reflects the homeowners’ desire for a calm and relaxing space. Design Challenges: The homeowners wish to retain the existing kitchen tile flooring and integrate it into a refreshed, modern design. Accommodating a dining area spacious enough for family visits without compromising the kitchen’s open feel or functional layout. Despite liking the current placement of plumbing and appliances, the homeowners aspire for a more open floor plan to facilitate better movement and interaction. The need to amplify natural light in the kitchen, especially around the sink area, where existing lighting is insufficient. Preserving the half-wall between the kitchen and family room, a feature the homeowners want to keep, while ensuring it complements the new design. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: By choosing a neutral color palette that complements the existing tile, the design unifies the kitchen with the adjacent spaces. The tile’s grout was cleaned and restored, enhancing the floor’s appearance and integrating it seamlessly with the new kitchen aesthetic. The inclusion of a larger island with seating for two, alongside maintaining a substantial dining table, was achieved by optimizing the spatial layout. This allowed for a sociable yet functional kitchen, accommodating large family gatherings without feeling crowded. Minor adjustments to the kitchen’s layout maintained the preferred locations for plumbing and appliances while introducing an ‘open’ design concept. Strategic modifications, such as angling the pantry wall, improved the flow and accessibility within the space. Replacing the garden window with a broader, standard window significantly increased natural light, transforming the sink area into a bright, welcoming space with enhanced views of the outdoors. The decision to keep the half-wall was ingeniously leveraged to define the dining area while maintaining an open connection to the family room. This feature not only serves as a visual separator but also ties the two spaces together through the shared color scheme and design elements. The homeowners are thrilled with their newly remodeled kitchen, which has become a hub of warmth and hospitality. Hosting a wedding shower and a birthday party, they have shared their renewed space with friends and family, who have been equally enamored. This remodel has not only met their functional and aesthetic desires but has also enriched their home with a fresh sense of serenity and joy. The upstairs part of the home is shaping up nicely. Here’s their newly remodeled primary bathroom.