You need only look at the before picture of the SYI Studio space to understand the background of this project and need for a new work space. Susan lives with her husband, three kids and dog in a 1960 split-level in Bloomington, which they've updated over the years and didn't want to leave, thanks to a great location and even greater neighbors. As the SYI team grew so did the three Yeley kids, and it became clear that not only did the team need more space but so did the family. 1.5 bathrooms + 3 bedrooms + 5 people = exponentially increasing discontent. By 2016, it was time to pull the trigger. Everyone needed more room, and an offsite studio wouldn't work: Susan is not just Creative Director and Owner of SYI but Full Time Activities and Meal Coordinator at Chez Yeley. The design, conceptualized entirely by the SYI team and executed by JL Benton Contracting, reclaimed the existing 4th bedroom from SYI space, added an ensuite bath and walk-in closet, and created a studio space with its own exterior entrance and full bath—making it perfect for a mother-in-law or Airbnb suite down the road. The project added over a thousand square feet to the house—and should add many more years for the family to live and work in a home they love. Contractor: JL Benton Contracting Cabinetry: Richcraft Wood Products Photographer: Gina Rogers

You need only look at the before picture of the SYI Studio space to understand the background of this project and need for a new work space. Susan lives with her husband, three kids and dog in a 1960 split-level in Bloomington, which they've updated over the years and didn't want to leave, thanks to a great location and even greater neighbors. As the SYI team grew so did the three Yeley kids, and it became clear that not only did the team need more space but so did the family. 1.5 bathrooms + 3 bedrooms + 5 people = exponentially increasing discontent. By 2016, it was time to pull the trigger. Everyone needed more room, and an offsite studio wouldn't work: Susan is not just Creative Director and Owner of SYI but Full Time Activities and Meal Coordinator at Chez Yeley. The design, conceptualized entirely by the SYI team and executed by JL Benton Contracting, reclaimed the existing 4th bedroom from SYI space, added an ensuite bath and walk-in closet, and created a studio space with its own exterior entrance and full bath—making it perfect for a mother-in-law or Airbnb suite down the road. The project added over a thousand square feet to the house—and should add many more years for the family to live and work in a home they love. Contractor: JL Benton Contracting Cabinetry: Richcraft Wood Products Photographer: Gina Rogers

Large format tile countertops installed with a mitered edge and zero radius sink. Color is Calcutta Marble. Photos by Mo Stone, Inc.
Kitchen - large contemporary kitchen idea with tile countertops

Exceptional Custom Homes and ADUs in San Diego, Riverside and Orange County since 2007. We have been successfully building all types of homes for all types of people. At G.J. Gardner Homes we understand that you are an individual and have unique requirements when building a home. By working together with you, we can design and build a home custom suited to you, your lifestyle and your needs. From Custom Homes to ADUs, Granny Flats and Casitas. Our experienced team will guide you through the process from start to finish in making your dream home a reality within your budget. We continue to build our reputation on reliability, design, workmanship, warranty and honesty that both our clients and suppliers can trust.

Home design - transitional home design idea in Austin

Build Iconic Inc. specializes in kitchen renovations for Brooklyn’s historic homes — brownstones, pre-war buildings, and landmarked properties where getting it right means respecting the original character while bringing the space fully up to modern standards. As a licensed NYC general contractor (DCA #2107844), we understand the unique challenges of working within older structures: uneven floors, outdated wiring, plaster walls, and, in some cases, Landmarks Preservation Commission requirements. We blend historical sensitivity with modern function, preserving original details like moldings, exposed brick, and period-appropriate finishes while updating the kitchen for how people actually cook and live today. Our historical kitchen remodeling includes: • Structural and layout updates that respect original building bones • Electrical and plumbing upgrades brought fully up to current code • Custom cabinetry and finishes that complement a home’s original era and style • Careful integration of modern appliances and smart home technology without disrupting historic character • Coordination with Landmarks requirements where applicable

Don't Let a Little Rain Keep You Indoors! As you begin thinking about the covered structure you envision, you’ll find magazines, books and design websites are excellent sources of inspiration. One of your friends or neighbors have a particularly cool outdoor space? Snap a picture and let’s talk about elements you'd like to see in yours. Or, if you're more of a writer, describe what you're looking for in a paragraph or two. This will help your landscaping contractor understand what it is you'd like to achieve with your covered structure or wood pergola. Think about how you will use your outdoor space and how many people might be enjoying it. Will you be dining, socializing, or relaxing under your gazebo or pergola? Also, as you gather ideas and inspiration, talk to your contractor about the costs for materials and design elements – that way you can establish an estimated budget.

Designed and realized by WL3 Designs, The Albero Respite is a paradigm of contemporary minimalist architecture, where serene simplicity meets functional elegance. Named after the Italian word for 'tree', the home pays homage to the solitary olive tree gracing its courtyard, symbolizing peace and resilience. This single-story structure emerges from the landscape with clean lines and expansive glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor space and the natural world outside. White, the dominant hue, serves not just as a design choice but as a canvas for the play of light and shadow, changing with the sun’s whims. WL3 Designs has meticulously crafted each element of The Albero Respite to embody the principles of sustainable design while providing a haven of tranquility. The home's orientation and glazing are engineered to optimize natural light and promote passive heating and cooling, reducing the need for artificial climate control. It stands as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature without forgoing modern luxury and comfort. Designing for the desert requires in-depth understanding of the extreme temperatures that range here. From freezing temperatures in the winter to blistering hot ones in the summer, the region contains every extreme, and the homes that are built in it must also. Rains and wind, endless sunshine, these are all elements that we considered when designing for this region. In addition to using modern strategies, we referred to ancient design concepts embraced by native people for generations, combining the two to create modern homes in this timeless, desert environment.

Build Iconic Inc. specializes in kitchen renovations for Brooklyn’s historic homes — brownstones, pre-war buildings, and landmarked properties where getting it right means respecting the original character while bringing the space fully up to modern standards. As a licensed NYC general contractor (DCA #2107844), we understand the unique challenges of working within older structures: uneven floors, outdated wiring, plaster walls, and, in some cases, Landmarks Preservation Commission requirements. We blend historical sensitivity with modern function, preserving original details like moldings, exposed brick, and period-appropriate finishes while updating the kitchen for how people actually cook and live today. Our historical kitchen remodeling includes: • Structural and layout updates that respect original building bones • Electrical and plumbing upgrades brought fully up to current code • Custom cabinetry and finishes that complement a home’s original era and style • Careful integration of modern appliances and smart home technology without disrupting historic character • Coordination with Landmarks requirements where applicable

Mid-sized traditional gray one-story wood house exterior idea in Indianapolis with a shed roof and a shingle roof

Lilly J Smith A Modern Clean Home Handled. We understand the fact that Houstonians are busy people and this makes it really demanding for them to put up with the cleanliness of their homes. This and lots more lead to the evolution of CleanPanda. Our main priority at CleanPanda, is to ensure that your home looks sparkling clean, properly disinfected and very healthy to live in. We offer lots of services ranging from maid service, home cleaning services, house cleaning for our customers in Houston TX.

‘Weaving Worldviews’ - (S. 23rd St. and Shunk St. Phila PA) This mural is a triptych about the difficulties of reaching understanding in the modern age, particularly between people of divergent worldviews. The 1st scene is a mother; calling us back to a common beginning; the 2nd shows the capacity of children to connect; and the 3rd shows the optimal merging of 2 minds when there is mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s background. Drawings and design on aluminum panels. 4’ x 8’ panels spaced in sections on a block wall.

Designing with Intent: Creating Homes That Tell a Story Have you ever stepped into a home and felt an instant connection, as if the space itself welcomed you? That’s the power of designing with intent—a thoughtful approach that blends beauty with purpose, ensuring every detail has meaning. We recently worked on a remarkable 1937 home in Palomar Park, California. The project involved reimagining the second floor to create a master bedroom with a walk in closet and master bathroom while preserving the home’s traditional charm. For the homeowners, this house held decades of memories, and our goal was to honor its legacy while creating a space ready for the next chapter. The Challenge: Balancing Tradition and Modernity The homeowners wanted their remodeled space to feel fresh and functional without losing its historic character. This meant every decision, from the layout to the materials, had to strike the perfect balance. We rebuilt the upstairs including reconstruction of the existing bathroom to make an impressive master bathroom and dressing room, and refinished the hardwood floors to preserve the details that tied back to the home’s 1937 roots. By incorporating traditional elements like marble floors and walls in the bathroom , aged wood vanities and new crown molding for the whole upstairs, we ensured the updated design felt authentic and timeless. 3 Tips for Designing with Intent Whether you’re working with a historic home or starting a new build, designing with intent can elevate your project. Here are three practical tips to help you create a space that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful: 1. Embrace the Home’s Character Every home has unique features that tell a story. Whether it’s an original fireplace, old wood floors, or a quirky architectural detail, look for ways to celebrate and integrate these elements into your design. 2. Let Function Drive the Design No matter how stunning a space looks, it needs to work for your lifestyle. Think about how you use each area and design accordingly. A thoughtful layout, smart storage solutions, and durable materials can transform a home from simply beautiful to truly livable. In this project, reconfiguring the upstairs wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about creating a layout that served the family’s everyday needs. 3. Personalize Your Space The best designs reflect the people who live in them. Incorporate personal touches, such as family heirlooms, meaningful colors, or custom features, to make the space truly yours. For this home, the homeowners were involved in selecting fixtures and materials that resonated with their style, ensuring the final design felt deeply personal. Why Intentional Design Matters Designing with intent transforms a house into a home. It’s about more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that feels deeply connected to your story and needs. At Prime Design and Build, we believe every project should start with understanding your vision. We work closely with our clients to ensure the design reflects their personality, values, and lifestyle. Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life If you’ve been dreaming of a home that feels like a true reflection of you, let’s make it happen. Whether it’s updating a historic property or starting fresh, we’re here to guide you through the process with expertise and care. As I said in our Palomar Park video, “When we come over to your house, we will get to know you so that we can make your home feel like home too.” Ready to start your journey? Reach out today for a consultation, and let’s design with intent.

Exceptional Custom Homes and ADUs in San Diego, Riverside and Orange County since 2007. We have been successfully building all types of homes for all types of people. At G.J. Gardner Homes we understand that you are an individual and have unique requirements when building a home. By working together with you, we can design and build a home custom suited to you, your lifestyle and your needs. From Custom Homes to ADUs, Granny Flats and Casitas. Our experienced team will guide you through the process from start to finish in making your dream home a reality within your budget. We continue to build our reputation on reliability, design, workmanship, warranty and honesty that both our clients and suppliers can trust.

Designing with Intent: Creating Homes That Tell a Story Have you ever stepped into a home and felt an instant connection, as if the space itself welcomed you? That’s the power of designing with intent—a thoughtful approach that blends beauty with purpose, ensuring every detail has meaning. We recently worked on a remarkable 1937 home in Palomar Park, California. The project involved reimagining the second floor to create a master bedroom with a walk in closet and master bathroom while preserving the home’s traditional charm. For the homeowners, this house held decades of memories, and our goal was to honor its legacy while creating a space ready for the next chapter. The Challenge: Balancing Tradition and Modernity The homeowners wanted their remodeled space to feel fresh and functional without losing its historic character. This meant every decision, from the layout to the materials, had to strike the perfect balance. We rebuilt the upstairs including reconstruction of the existing bathroom to make an impressive master bathroom and dressing room, and refinished the hardwood floors to preserve the details that tied back to the home’s 1937 roots. By incorporating traditional elements like marble floors and walls in the bathroom , aged wood vanities and new crown molding for the whole upstairs, we ensured the updated design felt authentic and timeless. 3 Tips for Designing with Intent Whether you’re working with a historic home or starting a new build, designing with intent can elevate your project. Here are three practical tips to help you create a space that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful: 1. Embrace the Home’s Character Every home has unique features that tell a story. Whether it’s an original fireplace, old wood floors, or a quirky architectural detail, look for ways to celebrate and integrate these elements into your design. 2. Let Function Drive the Design No matter how stunning a space looks, it needs to work for your lifestyle. Think about how you use each area and design accordingly. A thoughtful layout, smart storage solutions, and durable materials can transform a home from simply beautiful to truly livable. In this project, reconfiguring the upstairs wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about creating a layout that served the family’s everyday needs. 3. Personalize Your Space The best designs reflect the people who live in them. Incorporate personal touches, such as family heirlooms, meaningful colors, or custom features, to make the space truly yours. For this home, the homeowners were involved in selecting fixtures and materials that resonated with their style, ensuring the final design felt deeply personal. Why Intentional Design Matters Designing with intent transforms a house into a home. It’s about more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that feels deeply connected to your story and needs. At Prime Design and Build, we believe every project should start with understanding your vision. We work closely with our clients to ensure the design reflects their personality, values, and lifestyle. Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life If you’ve been dreaming of a home that feels like a true reflection of you, let’s make it happen. Whether it’s updating a historic property or starting fresh, we’re here to guide you through the process with expertise and care. As I said in our Palomar Park video, “When we come over to your house, we will get to know you so that we can make your home feel like home too.” Ready to start your journey? Reach out today for a consultation, and let’s design with intent.

Office Workstations and Cubicles: The Unsung Heroes of Efficient Team Environments In today's fast-paced business world, the hum of productivity is the sweetest sound an office can produce. But what fuels this symphony of efficiency? While leadership and strategy are crucial, the physical environment in which a team operates plays a role that is just as vital. The debate between open-plan offices and traditional cubicles has raged for years, yet the truth is that a well-designed space incorporating both office workstations cubicles can be the key to unlocking a team's full potential. This isn't just about furniture; it's about creating a habitat for success. The Evolution of the Workspace: Beyond the Beige Box Gone are the days of monotonous rows of identical, soul-crushing cubicles. Modern office design has embraced a more nuanced understanding of worker needs. The contemporary workstation is a far cry from its predecessors, offering flexibility, ergonomic support, and a nod to aesthetic appeal. This evolution recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach stifles creativity and productivity. Fostering Focus in a Sea of Collaboration While collaboration is a cornerstone of modern business, the need for individual, focused work remains paramount. This is where the modern cubicle shines. It provides a sanctuary from the constant distractions of a completely open office, allowing employees to delve deep into tasks that require concentration. This dedicated space minimizes interruptions, leading to higher quality work and reduced stress levels. The Power of Personalization and Ownership Giving employees a degree of control over their immediate environment can have a profound impact on morale and engagement. Modern workstations and cubicles that allow for personalization be it through adjustable shelving, pinboards for personal items, or even the choice of chair foster a sense of ownership. This small act of empowerment can translate into a greater sense of belonging and commitment to the organization. Ergonomics: The Foundation of Employee Well-being and Productivity A comfortable employee is a productive employee. Ergonomics is not a luxury; it's a fundamental necessity in any office environment. Poorly designed workstations can lead to a host of musculoskeletal issues, from back pain to carpal tunnel syndrome, resulting in increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency. Investing in ergonomic chairs, adjustable-height desks, and properly positioned monitors is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your team. Designing for Synergy: The Strategic office layout design The arrangement of workstations and cubicles is as important as the furniture itself. A strategic office layout design can facilitate seamless communication and collaboration while still providing pockets of privacy for focused work. This involves creating "neighborhoods" for different teams, placing collaborative zones in central, easily accessible areas, and ensuring that high-traffic pathways don't cut through quiet work zones. Breaking Down Barriers with Hybrid Designs The most effective office environments often feature a hybrid approach. This might involve clusters of cubicles for focused work, interspersed with open, collaborative "huddle spaces" equipped with whiteboards and comfortable seating. This variety allows employees to choose the environment that best suits the task at hand, offering the best of both worlds. The Role of Acoustics in a Thriving Workplace Noise is one of the biggest complaints in open-plan offices. Well-designed cubicles with sound-dampening panels can significantly mitigate this issue. Furthermore, incorporating acoustic solutions throughout the office, such as sound-absorbing materials on walls and ceilings, can create a more pleasant and productive auditory environment for everyone. Integrating Technology for a Seamless Workflow In the digital age, technology is the lifeblood of any business. Modern office workstations are designed with this in mind, featuring integrated power and data ports, cable management systems, and ample space for multiple monitors. This seamless integration of technology ensures that employees have the tools they need to work efficiently and without frustration. Choosing the Right Partner for Your Office Environment The task of outfitting an office can be daunting. Partnering with a knowledgeable and reputable Meet&Co commercial furniture supplier is crucial to creating an environment that is both functional and inspiring. A good supplier will not only offer a wide range of high-quality products but will also provide expert advice on space planning and ergonomic best practices, ensuring that your investment yields the best possible return. The Future of the Office: Flexibility and Adaptability The world of work is constantly evolving, and office design must evolve with it. The future lies in creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the changing needs of a business. Modular furniture and movable partitions are key components of this future-proof approach, allowing organizations to scale and adapt without the need for costly and disruptive renovations. Conclusion: A Strategic Investment in Your Greatest Asset Ultimately, the design of your office is a direct reflection of your company's culture and values. By investing in high-quality, ergonomic, and well-designed office workstations and cubicles, you are sending a clear message to your employees: their well-being and productivity matter. This strategic investment in your physical workspace is, in fact, an investment in your most valuable asset your people. The result is a more engaged, efficient, and innovative team, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Homeowner Services of Michigan (HSM) is excited to share the details of a new 16' x 22' family room expansion in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This project reflects our dedication to meeting our clients' specific needs. Our clients approached us needing more space for their growing family and wanted a seamless integration with their existing home. After thorough consultations, we developed a plan to bring their vision to life. The project began with careful architectural planning. We worked with a local architect to create detailed plans and secured all necessary permits to ensure compliance with local building codes. Site preparation involved demolishing an existing carport, grading, and excavation to prepare the building pad for the new foundation. This step was essential to ensure a stable base for the construction. Our team then focused on structural framing, tying the new addition to the existing home. We ensured that the new structure matched the current architectural style for a seamless blend. The addition was then roofed and sheathed to provide a sturdy and weatherproof exterior. Next, we addressed the electrical work, installing new circuits for lighting, HVAC, and receptacles, and adding smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to meet safety standards. A licensed journeyman electrician performed the electrical service to ensure high-quality and compliant installations. Insulation and drywall installation followed. We installed batt insulation to meet or exceed Michigan Energy Code requirements. The interior surfaces were finished with drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, and priming to prepare for painting. Baseboard molding and trim around doors and windows added the finishing touches. Exterior features were also important. We framed and installed new windows and a front entry door and added a front eyebrow vent feature to match the existing structure. Vinyl siding was installed to complete the exterior, ensuring a cohesive look and enhanced curb appeal. Throughout the project, we maintained a clean and professional worksite, disposing of debris responsibly and minimizing disruption to the client's daily lives. Our focus was always on delivering quality and ensuring client satisfaction. This home addition project highlights our commitment to understanding and fulfilling our clients' needs. We are proud to have added valuable space and enhanced the overall functionality and aesthetic of the home. These folks had a vision, a budget, and a whole lot of patience. We got through this family room remodel during a global pandemic. What great people to work with!

When spring comes back to the world of the living after a cold, long and annoying winter, people seem to wake up from a certain slumber of stagnation just as well. The more warm it gradually becomes, the more prone they get to indulge themselves in organizing pleasant, outside meetings among their families and friends. And it's completely understandable, as it is more enjoyable in the fresh air where one can freely bask in the sun. Often, instead of venturing to public spaces, they choose to stay close to home. Or actually, stay home-adjacent, as they tend to organize their meetings on their patios. Those are occassions Toja patio furniture is just perfect for. It provides great comfort and even greater style. It will add life and elegance to every patio it gets placed in. Our sets can be combined in many variations as their respective pieces can be bought separately. Their fantastic durability and unique constructions mark them as things to be either proud or jealous of. As far as patio furniture goes, this is the best possible choice.

Our clients were a couple about to retire, who wanted to stay in their family home where they raised their children. They knew their kitchen was not working to its full potential but were unsure how to make the best changes or where to start. It was important their new kitchen yielded the feeling of a fresh, new environment that offered timeless longevity but didn’t break the bank. Knowing that the kitchen now needed the space to accommodate two people regularly, we reconfigured it to suit our clients’ lifestyle change. We increased counter space significantly for preparation and presentation, making it intrinsically more functional but also yielding a greater sense of luxury. Storage was increased and planned around our understanding of their cooking and entertaining style, and how they move through the space. Our clients were comfortable and very much aware of their own sense of style – simplicity was the driving force behind their aesthetic. We removed all unnecessary embellishments and used a classic, neutral palette while introducing texture with rich walnut touches. Knowing their penchant for entertaining, we included integrated lighting to allow easy control of ambiance. This project was a joy to work on!