The Makeover Process -- Like a lot of other old houses, ours had seen some less-than-sympathetic renovations over the years. A while back I documented my entryway makeover, and since then I’ve been making my way through the house, one project at a time. With a few successes under our belt, my husband and I decided to take on one of the most challenging rooms in our home: the kitchen. By keeping the design simple and breaking the project down into manageable parts, we were able to transform the space on a fairly modest budget and dream up some ingenious solutions along the way. Check out the step-by-step evolution of my kitchen from a tired mess to an eclectic and functional space. Photo by Manuel Rodriguez

First Impressions Photography Seeber Build True Custom Cabinets
Example of a large transitional single-wall dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen/dining room combo design in Vancouver with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, blue backsplash, ceramic backsplash, colored appliances, an island, white walls and no fireplace

In redesigning this second-floor guest bathroom, designer Jay Eiler wanted to extend the timeless look and feel that is featured throughout this elegant turn-of-the-century home. The result is a calm, serene space with custom finishes and a sophisticated color palette. The bathroom was originally crowded and lacked natural flow, so the team took advantage of an unused storage area in the adjoining bedroom, and expanded the space to create a modern functional bathroom. A newly added transom window helped to make the room feel even more spacious and added warm natural light throughout. On the floors, honed Calcutta Gold marble neatly borders the oval river shell mosaic tile. A Moroccan-shaped marble tile mosaic in a pale emerald shines against the crisp white subway glass tile in the shower. This luxurious steam shower features sleek fixtures, including an oversized rain shower head. For the homeowners and their family, this peaceful and tranquil space has become the bath that everyone in the home wants to use. Photo by: Alise O'Brien

Our designer worked with Eric and Alexandra on their master bathroom remodeling project. After hearing their desires and the goals. We determined the desired look would be a monochromatic modern but functional space. By removing the outdated shower walls and pony wall covered in cultured marble, we created a custom shower using the Shibusa 12x24 collection from Arizona Tile. The color is Bianco, we laid the tile in a horizontally stacked pattern allows for a clean and modern detail. We continued the tile along the back wall seamlessly for the tub surround. Paired with the white tile the brushed nickel finishes add to the modern feel by using it in the shower clips, handle and in the plumbing fixtures. The finishing selections include a shower head from The Delta Faucet company. It is called the In2uition, a dual showering system with a build in diverter. This shower head offers 9 different shower settings. We also installed two new tilting oval mirrors and numerous bathroom accessories a new frameless tempered glass enclosure with a swinging door were installed.

A builder grade bathroom gets a major upgrade. The client was amazing as she did this remodel while having a torn Achilles tendon while she was in a boot before and after surgery all while her husband was out of town for work. This prompted the request for a large, curbless shower with a barn door. We removed the dated unused corner tub to expand the shower and added a bench under the window for additional storage. The vanity got a functional make-over with better storage for toiletries. His and hers pull-outs and drawers provided ample space. The traditional fixtures blend with the more contemporary tile and color pallet giving the bathroom an elegant soothing feel.

Reference: BB503B-US Model: COCOON SHADOW Color: pure black Shape: Oval oblong Finish: honned inside and outside US Dimensions: 19-2/3" x 15" x 6" EU Dimensions: 50 x 38 x 15 cm US Drain size: 1-1/2" Material: Shanxi pure black granite grade A Weight: 73 lbs - 33 Kgs Oval Natural stone vessel sink COCOON SHADOW - 19-2/3" x 15" x 6" - genuine interior decoration trendy pure black granite. The "Exceptional" cut in the block without any comparison with plastic and other chemical resin market often unaffordable. You will definitely not let anyone feel indifferent with this 100% natural stone piece of heaven unique in the US and exclusively available on Living'ROC.net. How to make your bathroom unique! Made from genuine, pure shanxi black granite COCOON SHADOW will delight lovers of beautiful work, looking for rare, products. Add value to your home by transforming your bathroom into an oasis of elegance, calm and tranquillity. Imagine creating a beautiful bathroom made from genuine black Granite. Discover the well-being and the restful feeling our creation can offer you. Our creation is one of the most fashionable in our bathrooms range. Looking like a bird's nest its oblong curves evokes a place of well-being and healing. this vessel sink is not only beautiful to look at it is also functional with its height and its edges allowing a large amount of water. Black granite is dominant in strength of great value and authentic in look and feel. This vessel sink is ready to use, sitting on a vanity counter top and Highly resistant to chipping and scratching, Withstands hot temperatures, Tolerant to very high temperature changes. All exposed parts of the stone have been double waterproofed. if you wish to standardize your project, you can choose among a wide range of black shower bases in black granite or black mongolia basalt (very similar color) carved from the same material (similar tones and finishes) as for example black granite models Spacium Shadow, Palaos Shadow, Quasar Shadow or Dalaos Shadow and mongolia black models Serena Black, Corail Black Our creation COCOON SHADOW is delivered without an overflow drain (not included) - every US drains models you can find on the market will fit perfectly on Living'ROC vessel sink. This model is ready to use over the countertop.

This stunning kitchen remodel seamlessly blends functionality and elegance while enhancing the connection to the outdoors. To create an open-concept space, we removed the wall between the kitchen and dining room, maximizing light and flow. The design highlights the beautiful cobblestone patio, outdoor kitchen, and firepit with expanded windows, including an enlarged sink window, a transom window above the sliding door, and an additional window that complements the dining room’s aesthetic. The new kitchen layout includes two-tone cabinets—ivory and purple—that extend to the ceiling with lit upper glass sections for a striking effect. A large, multifunctional island features double rows of cabinets, a microwave drawer, a beverage cooler, a bar sink, and open shelving for culinary books. Additional elements include a built-in refrigerator, double ovens, a full-height pantry, a coffee center with glass displays, and a window bench with storage drawers. The custom oval dining table expands to accommodate the entire family for special occasions. Luxurious touches like radiant-heated porcelain tile floors, a subway artisan tile backsplash with mother-of-pearl mosaic accents, motorized blinds, designer lighting, granite sinks, and brushed gold faucets and hardware complete the design. This kitchen is both functional and a showpiece, tailored for cooking, entertaining, and family gatherings.

Our client requested a design that reflected their need to renovate their dated bathroom into a transitional floor plan that would provide accessibility and function. The new shower design consists of a pony wall with a glass enclosure that has beautiful details of brushed nickel square glass clamps. The interior shower fittings entail geometric lines that lend a contemporary finish. A curbless shower and linear drain added an extra dimension of accessibility to the plan. In addition, a balance bar above the accessory niche was affixed to the wall for extra stability. The shower area also includes a folding teak wood bench seat that also adds to the comfort of the bathroom as well as to the accessibility factors. Improved lighting was created with LED Damp-location rated recessed lighting. LED sconces were also used to flank the Robern medicine cabinet which created realistic and flattering light. Designer: Marie Cairns Contractor: Charles Cairns Photographer: Michael Andrew

In redesigning this second-floor guest bathroom, designer Jay Eiler wanted to extend the timeless look and feel that is featured throughout this elegant turn-of-the-century home. The result is a calm, serene space with custom finishes and a sophisticated color palette. The bathroom was originally crowded and lacked natural flow, so the team took advantage of an unused storage area in the adjoining bedroom, and expanded the space to create a modern functional bathroom. A newly added transom window helped to make the room feel even more spacious and added warm natural light throughout. On the floors, honed Calcutta Gold marble neatly borders the oval river shell mosaic tile. A Moroccan-shaped marble tile mosaic in a pale emerald shines against the crisp white subway glass tile in the shower. This luxurious steam shower features sleek fixtures, including an oversized rain shower head. For the homeowners and their family, this peaceful and tranquil space has become the bath that everyone in the home wants to use. Photo by: Alise O'Brien

This beautiful navy blue vanity paired with a fun, flower-patterned floor tile were the jumping off point for the new finishes in this girl’s bath. The shower curtain is swapped for a more luxurious glass enclosure, gold fixtures bring more sparkle to the space, and round mirrors with light bars above make a bold statement.

This quintessential family home offers owners comfort, functionality, and a beautiful space to gather. This home, designed by Visbeen Architects, encompasses all of these qualities and throws in luxury and style, too. Exterior details reflect the American Craftsman and Shingle styles of the late 19th century. On the main level, the formal dining room flows into the living area and kitchen, offering more than enough space and seating for large groups of friends and family to congregate. The well-appointed master suite is also located on the main floor. Climb the turreted stairs to the upper level and you will find two bedroom suites, a guest room, laundry facilities, and a home office. The lower level provides a guest suite, and a comfortable family and hearth area, as well as a refreshment bar and an additional office. Photographer: TerVeen Photography Builder: Falcon Custom Homes

A captivating transformation in the coveted neighborhood of University Park, Dallas The heart of this home lies in the kitchen, where we embarked on a design endeavor that would leave anyone speechless. By opening up the main kitchen wall, we created a magnificent window system that floods the space with natural light and offers a breathtaking view of the picturesque surroundings. Suspended from the ceiling, a steel-framed marble vent hood floats a few inches from the window, showcasing a mesmerizing Lilac Marble. The same marble is skillfully applied to the backsplash and island, featuring a bold combination of color and pattern that exudes elegance. Adding to the kitchen's allure is the Italian range, which not only serves as a showstopper but offers robust culinary features for even the savviest of cooks. However, the true masterpiece of the kitchen lies in the honed reeded marble-faced island. Each marble strip was meticulously cut and crafted by artisans to achieve a half-rounded profile, resulting in an island that is nothing short of breathtaking. This intricate process took several months, but the end result speaks for itself. To complement the grandeur of the kitchen, we designed a combination of stain-grade and paint-grade cabinets in a thin raised panel door style. This choice adds an elegant yet simple look to the overall design. Inside each cabinet and drawer, custom interiors were meticulously designed to provide maximum functionality and organization for the day-to-day cooking activities. A vintage Turkish runner dating back to the 1960s, evokes a sense of history and character. The breakfast nook boasts a stunning, vivid, and colorful artwork created by one of Dallas' top artist, Kyle Steed, who is revered for his mastery of his craft. Some of our favorite art pieces from the inspiring Haylee Yale grace the coffee station and media console, adding the perfect moment to pause and loose yourself in the story of her art. The project extends beyond the kitchen into the living room, where the family's changing needs and growing children demanded a new design approach. Accommodating their new lifestyle, we incorporated a large sectional for family bonding moments while watching TV. The living room now boasts bolder colors, striking artwork a coffered accent wall, and cayenne velvet curtains that create an inviting atmosphere. Completing the room is a custom 22' x 15' rug, adding warmth and comfort to the space. A hidden coat closet door integrated into the feature wall adds an element of surprise and functionality. This project is not just about aesthetics; it's about pushing the boundaries of design and showcasing the possibilities. By curating an out-of-the-box approach, we bring texture and depth to the space, employing different materials and original applications. The layered design achieved through repeated use of the same material in various forms, shapes, and locations demonstrates that unexpected elements can create breathtaking results. The reason behind this redesign and remodel was the homeowners' desire to have a kitchen that not only provided functionality but also served as a beautiful backdrop to their cherished family moments. The previous kitchen lacked the "wow" factor they desired, prompting them to seek our expertise in creating a space that would be a source of joy and inspiration. Inspired by well-curated European vignettes, sculptural elements, clean lines, and a natural color scheme with pops of color, this design reflects an elegant organic modern style. Mixing metals, contrasting textures, and utilizing clean lines were key elements in achieving the desired aesthetic. The living room introduces bolder moments and a carefully chosen color scheme that adds character and personality. The client's must-haves were clear: they wanted a show stopping centerpiece for their home, enhanced natural light in the kitchen, and a design that reflected their family's dynamic. With the transformation of the range wall into a wall of windows, we fulfilled their desire for abundant natural light and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Our favorite rooms and design elements are numerous, but the kitchen remains a standout feature. The painstaking process of hand-cutting and crafting each reeded panel in the island to match the marble's veining resulted in a labor of love that emanates warmth and hospitality to all who enter. In conclusion, this tastefully lux project in University Park, Dallas is an extraordinary example of a full gut remodel that has surpassed all expectations. The meticulous attention to detail, the masterful use of materials, and the seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics create an unforgettable space. It serves as a testament to the power of design and the transformative impact it can have on a home and its inhabitants. Project by Texas' Urbanology Designs. Their North Richland Hills-based interior design studio serves Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Fort Worth, and upscale clients nationwide.

This modern-meets-timeless bathroom remodel features a custom natural white oak double vanity fitted with a premium Carrara marble countertop and under-mount Kohler rectangular basins. The space is elevated with sleek Brizo Odin widespread matte black faucets and matching accessories, offering both elegance and durability. Framed by dual RH black oval mirrors and Visual Comfort Studio sconces, the vanity wall feels clean, curated, and high-end. Inside the frameless walk-in shower, large-format honed Carrara marble tile wraps the walls, accented by dual shampoo niches with mosaic inlay. The overhead Grohe Rainshower SmartActive 310 and matte black handheld kit provide a luxury shower experience that balances form and function.

Transforming this South Haven, MI bathroom into a serene spa-like retreat, this design seamlessly blends modern elegance with organic textures. The space features a stunning freestanding soaking tub set against a warm wood-textured accent wall, creating a luxurious focal point. A soft mint-green double vanity with quartz countertops and matte black hardware pairs perfectly with the sleek lines of the frameless glass shower. The shower itself is a showpiece, boasting marble-look porcelain tiles, a built-in bench, and modern black fixtures, including a rain shower head. Natural light floods the space through skylights, enhancing the open and airy feel. A custom makeup vanity nook, complete with brass accents and a sleek oval mirror, adds functionality and style. This bathroom is the epitome of relaxation and sophistication, perfect for the coastal charm of South Haven living.

This was a bathroom that was used just by the kids while they lived at home, with these clients being without any children at home anymore, they wanted to do a small renovation keeping it budget friendly, as it will become only the guest bathroom. This was mostly just a cosmetic renovation, we kept the existing foot print, as it was a functional design already. We kept the existing floor, shower fixtures, blind, and refaced the vanity, by changing the doors and hardware. I new white textured shower tile with a glass mosaic border was added. A new sink, counter top, faucet, mirror, vanity light, toilet and a lot of accessories. By changing out these elements in the space the clients now has very warm and inviting space to relax and take a long bath, for themselves or their guests.

This was a bathroom that was used just by the kids while they lived at home, with these clients being without any children at home anymore, they wanted to do a small renovation keeping it budget friendly, as it will become only the guest bathroom. This was mostly just a cosmetic renovation, we kept the existing foot print, as it was a functional design already. We kept the existing floor, shower fixtures, blind, and refaced the vanity, by changing the doors and hardware. I new white textured shower tile with a glass mosaic border was added. A new sink, counter top, faucet, mirror, vanity light, toilet and a lot of accessories. By changing out these elements in the space the clients now has very warm and inviting space to relax and take a long bath, for themselves or their guests.

Maria & Paul wanted the guest bathroom updated with a new layout that would feel brighter and more functional. The goal was to replace the old tub and shower setup with a walk-in shower and bring a clean, fresh look to the space. The existing bathtub, wall tile, and countertops were removed, and damaged drywall was repaired to create a solid foundation for the remodel. A custom walk-in shower was installed. The shower floor features Vecchia Calacatta Penny Round Mosaic tile. For the walls, Smooth White Matte 8x24 tiles were chosen in a brick lay pattern with Schluter Jolly bright white edging. The niche was reframed to give more space and lined with the same mosaic tile for a standout detail. This addition brings both functionality and design, breaking up the clean white wall tile with texture and contrast. A Delta Saylor Matte Black shower fixture stands out against the white tile, while a sliding rain glass barn-style door with matte black hardware provides a clean entry. The original cabinets were kept and paired with Miraggio Duo quartz countertops and an oval white undermount sink. A Delta Saylor Matte Black widespread faucet was installed, and above it, a Wayfair Lark Manor Waxter framed mirror was mounted horizontally. The new shower brings style and convenience, with crisp white tile, penny round mosaic, and matte black fixtures as standout features. The vanity now has a polished quartz surface, framed mirror, and coordinated finishes that complete the transformation.

This was a bathroom that was used just by the kids while they lived at home, with these clients being without any children at home anymore, they wanted to do a small renovation keeping it budget friendly, as it will become only the guest bathroom. This was mostly just a cosmetic renovation, we kept the existing foot print, as it was a functional design already. We kept the existing floor, shower fixtures, blind, and refaced the vanity, by changing the doors and hardware. I new white textured shower tile with a glass mosaic border was added. A new sink, counter top, faucet, mirror, vanity light, toilet and a lot of accessories. By changing out these elements in the space the clients now has very warm and inviting space to relax and take a long bath, for themselves or their guests.

This was a bathroom that was used just by the kids while they lived at home, with these clients being without any children at home anymore, they wanted to do a small renovation keeping it budget friendly, as it will become only the guest bathroom. This was mostly just a cosmetic renovation, we kept the existing foot print, as it was a functional design already. We kept the existing floor, shower fixtures, blind, and refaced the vanity, by changing the doors and hardware. I new white textured shower tile with a glass mosaic border was added. A new sink, counter top, faucet, mirror, vanity light, toilet and a lot of accessories. By changing out these elements in the space the clients now has very warm and inviting space to relax and take a long bath, for themselves or their guests.