Aesthetic Value: The custom tapered square newels with flowing stepped design of the balustrade create a beautiful but understated look. Adding to the welcoming feel of the foyer yet not overwhelming it. Stair Safety: The construction of the interlocking wood panel system creates a balustrade that is much more ridged. This removes the need for intermediated post that you sometimes find in traditional balustrades for them to meet code requirements. Quality: No joints or seams could show on the finished panel system. All parts were cnc cut for the most precise joinery possible. Technical Challenge: Since all the panels where fabricated off site super precise field dimensions were a necessity. Using those measurements and CNC fabrication, panels were created that fit perfectly together and on the site.

In this mid-century home, our role centered on sourcing a cohesive furniture collection and designing custom millwork that would enhance the architecture without overwhelming it. Every furniture selection was made with an emphasis on scale, materiality, and period-appropriate detailing. We combined iconic mid-century, with contemporary furniture that respected the home’s proportions and aesthetic. The result is a layered, timeless palette of natural woods, rich textiles, and sculptural silhouettes that balance form and function. Built-ins were integrated seamlessly into the architecture with materials selected to age gracefully, with finishes and detailing that reference the era all while creating a clean, modern look.

Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in St Louis

Designed by Mark Sleith of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Falls Church, VA in collaboration with Mike Parkinson, this eclectic style kitchen remodel features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style in two finishes. The base cabinets all features the Norfolk Blue finish and the wall cabinet features a White finish. Kitchen countertops are engineered quartz by Q from MSI in the color Calacatta Trento. The tile backsplash behind the range features Artistic Tile with Blue Note Circles as well as a pot filler faucet. Said the client, "We are obsessed with our uber-chic new kitchen! Mark was a consummate professional throughout the entire process. I described my ideal space, and he designed something even better that I could have imagined. Not only did he help me create a luxe look within the confines of my budget, he stuck with me throughout every step of the project. Mark went above and beyond to create a design that captured my vision." Added Mark, "The client was amazing to work with, and had definite ideas of what she liked and did not like. She was open to suggestions, which led us to achieving her design goals. This created a great sense of accomplishment for me as I guided her through the overwhelming maze of remodeling. I am very pleased to have helped her take a not-so-great reason for a remodel and turn it around into an opportunity to create the kitchen she always wanted." Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

The primary bathroom makeover began with removing the outdated tub surround and installing a sculptural freestanding tub positioned to take full advantage of the stunning views outside. We replaced the existing shower with a custom glass enclosure featuring minimal hardware to create a seamless, open feel. This allowed the eye to move freely through the space and highlighted the elegant herringbone tile installed across the walls and floor, adding texture and visual interest without overwhelming the design. From there, we brought in rich contrast by selecting dramatic waterfall-edge countertops crafted from natural stone. The veining in the stone gave us the perfect opportunity to echo that detail in the custom vanity rug and the accent tiles we installed in the ceiling. To add warmth and balance to the space, we chose Dura Supreme cabinetry in a beautiful stained finish. Finally, we tied it all together with a heated towel rack and gold-toned fixtures to complete the spa-like feel.

Fu-Tung Cheng / Cheng Design • Integral Concrete Sink and Wall designed and fabricated by Cheng Design, Meteor Vineyards Kitchen This kitchen by Cheng Design is located within a massive, 12,000 sq. ft. rammed earth home anchoring a working Napa County, California vineyard. Commissioned to create a sculptural yet functional cooking space expressing art and utility, the design approach was to create a monolith — a unified kitchen space of simple low walls and concrete countertops, seamless cabinetry details and hardware, and a clever orchestration of gourmet appliances to echo the mass of the house and anchor the overwhelming space. Photography: Matthew Millman

When the owners of this Queen village contemporary townhouse embarked on upgrading their home to something more akin to their design sensibilities, high on their list was a true European kitchen. We responded with a sleek stainless and oak design featuring Mobalco Cabinetry from Spain. Besides being a sensational backdrop to the adjacent open dining room, the kitchen also services their needs (and wants) as serious cooks. The reflective nature of the huge, stainless pantry keeps its size and capacity from overwhelming while bouncing light into the windowless space. In contrast, the grainflow-matched white oak, with it's sensual integrated handles, creates a soothing relief from the stainless's hard edges. Similarly, the cubist lines of the white and deep gray quartz countertops play nicely off the gentle curves of the marble's veining. The new kitchen, along with the new floors, stair railing and fireplace that the owners created have made a space that they love coming home to.

these exclusive artist tiles are handmade by one of our clé artists, boris aldridge, on handmade encaustic cement. boris' collection is full of delightfully modern patterns inspired by the islamic tradition. the pop of blue and white gives the floors a mod feel without feeling too overwhelming. the rustic touches make the space fun and approachable... we are in love! shop pattern four here: https://www.cletile.com/collections/artist-collection-boris-aldridge-cement-tile/products/moroccan-encaustic-artist-cement-collection-borisaldrige-pattern4?variant= designed by cobalt living co, photographed by miro dvorscak

Pet-friendly furniture Pet owners want to make life as pleasant as possible for their pets. The various furniture elements intended to enrich their lives usually do not fit the style of the apartment. That’s why we designed furniture that can be classic but also has elements adapted to the stay of pets. That’s why we designed furniture that can be classic but also has elements adapted to the stay of pets. Yeena’s retro charm does not overwhelm its modern design. Made from a melamine-faced board, with its fabric-like structure, warm grey color, and metal décor it is most definitely inviting to the touch. It stands on matte black metal legs. Pet-friendly furniture for cats to play on and dogs to lay on.

This dome is designed to exceed both appearance and performance of a wooden gazebo roof, which promotes overwhelming customer satisfaction and increased gazebo longevity. Royal Spa manufactured spa enclosures are produced to order in accordance with customer needs and spa size. All roof styles are as pictured. 8′ x 8′ Lip-Mount Gazebo models are available for most spa models.

This rail remodel brings fresh feel to this Virginia home through traditional materials and clean design. A white oak handrail paired with classic white balusters complements the home's bright, open layout while adding refined detail. Natural light from large windows highlights the craftsmanship of the new rail system. The remodel transforms what was once dated into a polished focal point that enhances the space without overwhelming it. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

With so many nooks and cubbies to fill, an entertainment center can easily look overwhelmed. By adding various shapes and sizes of white glazed pottery, the cabinetry feels full, but not crammed, with subtly eclectic potery.

This remarkable renovation reimagines an entire lower level into a multi-room retreat that reads less like a basement and more like a private members' club. Every inch was designed with intention — layering bold textures, curated art, and a confident mix of moody and luminous palettes to create a space that is simultaneously dramatic and deeply livable. Main Living Area The heart of this renovation is a sweeping living room where refined restraint meets expressive design. Walls are finished with architectural fluted millwork banding near the ceiling — a detail that adds rhythm and sophistication without overwhelming the space. Flanking panels of delicately patterned textured wallpaper frame a striking large-scale abstract canvas in black, white, and gold, which serves as both the focal point and the color story for the entire room. Paired frosted glass capsule sconces with warm brass fittings illuminate the artwork from either side, casting a soft, gallery-like glow. The furniture selection is equally considered: a generous cream linen sofa anchors the primary seating area, complemented by a pair of sculptural dark leather swivel lounge chairs with a stone travertine pedestal side table nestled between them. A plush velvet ottoman, a brass arc floor lamp, and a soft gray area rug over wide-plank hardwood floors complete the composition with quiet luxury. Bar & Entertainment Area The bar is nothing short of a showpiece. Custom cabinetry in a sophisticated greige-gray, featuring a mix of flat-panel and reeded/fluted door fronts, is crowned with a jaw-dropping geometric faceted tile backsplash. The tile — a mosaic of black, white, and metallic stone set in a kaleidoscopic diamond pattern — catches the light and shifts dramatically depending on the angle. A pair of oversized brass dome pendant lights hang above a sleek island topped in richly veined dark marble, providing both task lighting and a glamorous focal point. Open shelving built into the backsplash wall displays sculptural art objects — including a carved Buddha head and white abstract sculptures — reinforcing the home's gallery aesthetic. A brass spring-coil faucet, integrated beverage refrigerator, and patterned swirl-print ottomans tucked beneath the island make this bar equally functional and unforgettable. Game Room A complete tonal departure, the game room embraces deep, moody drama through floor-to-ceiling dark olive green walls and ceiling. A large-format sage green square tile accent wall grounds a wall-mounted flat screen TV, while a mahogany billiard table with slate blue felt takes center stage on a vintage-style area rug. A sculptural brass sputnik chandelier overhead adds a touch of glam that keeps the space from feeling too heavy. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the room with natural light and offer serene woodland views — a beautiful contrast to the room's intentionally dark interior palette. Sitting Room A quieter counterpart to the more dramatic spaces, the sitting room offers a warm, neutral sanctuary. A modern channel-tufted sofa in warm gray is dressed with rust terracotta and watercolor sage pillows. A sculptural tub chair in textured charcoal fabric, a pair of curved bronze ottomans with ribbed white upholstery, and a small dark marble side table complete a seating vignette that feels curated and calm. Signature Art Installation Perhaps the most conversation-starting element in the entire project is a bespoke wall sculpture: dozens of white ceramic pods with gold-leafed interiors, arranged in a sweeping, wave-like pattern across a stairwell or hallway wall. The installation bridges art and architecture, transforming a transitional space into a destination.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

The owners requested a Private Resort that catered to their love for entertaining friends and family, a place where 2 people would feel just as comfortable as 42. Located on the western edge of a Wisconsin lake, the site provides a range of natural ecosystems from forest to prairie to water, allowing the building to have a more complex relationship with the lake - not merely creating large unencumbered views in that direction. The gently sloping site to the lake is atypical in many ways to most lakeside lots - as its main trajectory is not directly to the lake views - allowing for focus to be pushed in other directions such as a courtyard and into a nearby forest. The biggest challenge was accommodating the large scale gathering spaces, while not overwhelming the natural setting with a single massive structure. Our solution was found in breaking down the scale of the project into digestible pieces and organizing them in a Camp-like collection of elements: - Main Lodge: Providing the proper entry to the Camp and a Mess Hall - Bunk House: A communal sleeping area and social space. - Party Barn: An entertainment facility that opens directly on to a swimming pool & outdoor room. - Guest Cottages: A series of smaller guest quarters. - Private Quarters: The owners private space that directly links to the Main Lodge. These elements are joined by a series green roof connectors, that merge with the landscape and allow the out buildings to retain their own identity. This Camp feel was further magnified through the materiality - specifically the use of Doug Fir, creating a modern Northwoods setting that is warm and inviting. The use of local limestone and poured concrete walls ground the buildings to the sloping site and serve as a cradle for the wood volumes that rest gently on them. The connections between these materials provided an opportunity to add a delicate reading to the spaces and re-enforce the camp aesthetic. The oscillation between large communal spaces and private, intimate zones is explored on the interior and in the outdoor rooms. From the large courtyard to the private balcony - accommodating a variety of opportunities to engage the landscape was at the heart of the concept. Overview Chenequa, WI Size Total Finished Area: 9,543 sf Completion Date May 2013 Services Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

A close view of the walk-in shower highlights warm brass fixtures, softly patterned neutral tile, a frameless glass enclosure, and an integrated shower niche. The restrained material palette adds texture and warmth without overwhelming the compact Bay Area bathroom.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

Stepping into this bathroom is like entering a haven of modern luxury. A freestanding bathtub, crafted from a smooth, white stone material, takes center stage. Its curved lines and independent placement exude a sense of contemporary indulgence. To its right, a seamless glass door grants access to a spacious walk-in shower, offering the perfect combination of functionality and relaxation. Along the opposite wall, a double vanity unit reinforces the minimalist aesthetic. Light wood with a clean finish forms the base, topped by two stylish vessel sinks made of white porcelain. Each vanity boasts two drawers adorned with sleek chrome pulls, providing ample storage without compromising the clean lines. Rectangular mirrors with minimalist chrome frames hang above each sink, their reflective surfaces bouncing light throughout the space and contributing to the overall feeling of spaciousness. Matte black faucets with a modern design add a touch of contrast to the light wood, drawing the eye and complementing the vessel sinks. The floor boasts large gray tiles in a modern pattern, offering visual interest without overwhelming the space. The shower enclosure continues this theme with similar tiles on the walls, creating a sense of cohesion. The remaining walls are painted in a soft white hue, harmonizing perfectly with the light wood vanity and promoting a bright and airy atmosphere. Recessed ceiling lights provide general illumination, while two sconces with frosted glass shades flank the mirrors, casting a warm and inviting glow that washes away shadows and completes the luxurious spa-like ambiance.

Designed by Daniel Altmann of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Bethesda, MD this Washington, DC contemporary kitchen design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Acrilux door style in a Linear Bronze/Powder finish. Kitchen countertops are engineered quartz in the color Wayborne by Cambria. Kitchen appliances are by JennAir. Kitchen tile backsplash features Tomei 3x12 glass tile in a cloth finish. For the customer, the experience was overwhelmingly positive, sharing "Daniel as an absolute pleasure to work with. He listened closely to my goals for the kitchen and was patient and flexible with providing multiple options to help with making the many decisions required. As with most major renovations, we ran into unexpected issues, in our case during demolition. Everyone worked with us to come up with a solution that preserved the integrity of the design." Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.