2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER Built in 1980, this single family home in Fairfax Station desperately needed remodeling. The homeowners cited lack of space, old appliances, dark cabinets and not enough natural light coming in as just a few of its problems. Design solutions to their problems included adding space via a two-foot bump out behind the breakfast area to make room for a larger table and more seating, and moving a wall out 18” to create a wider kitchen. This second move allowed one wall to house the kitchen’s pantry, double oven and refrigerator. Stainless steel professional-grade appliances also include an electric cooktop and range hood. The added space accommodated a center island which provides more storage, houses a built-in microwave and incorporates display cabinets for the owner’s prized china. Both the island and perimeter cabinets are topped with an exotic dark granite counter. A custom-made hutch matches the cabinetry perfectly. The new open concept design lets guests move freely between kitchen, dining area and family room. A triple window in the dining area and double window over the sink area meet the owner’s requirement for bringing in more natural light.

2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER Built in 1980, this single family home in Fairfax Station desperately needed remodeling. The homeowners cited lack of space, old appliances, dark cabinets and not enough natural light coming in as just a few of its problems. Design solutions to their problems included adding space via a two-foot bump out behind the breakfast area to make room for a larger table and more seating, and moving a wall out 18” to create a wider kitchen. This second move allowed one wall to house the kitchen’s pantry, double oven and refrigerator. Stainless steel professional-grade appliances also include an electric cooktop and range hood. The added space accommodated a center island which provides more storage, houses a built-in microwave and incorporates display cabinets for the owner’s prized china. Both the island and perimeter cabinets are topped with an exotic dark granite counter. A custom-made hutch matches the cabinetry perfectly. The new open concept design lets guests move freely between kitchen, dining area and family room. A triple window in the dining area and double window over the sink area meet the owner’s requirement for bringing in more natural light.

2011 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER Built in 1980, this single family home in Fairfax Station desperately needed remodeling. The homeowners cited lack of space, old appliances, dark cabinets and not enough natural light coming in as just a few of its problems. Design solutions to their problems included adding space via a two-foot bump out behind the breakfast area to make room for a larger table and more seating, and moving a wall out 18” to create a wider kitchen. This second move allowed one wall to house the kitchen’s pantry, double oven and refrigerator. Stainless steel professional-grade appliances also include an electric cooktop and range hood. The added space accommodated a center island which provides more storage, houses a built-in microwave and incorporates display cabinets for the owner’s prized china. Both the island and perimeter cabinets are topped with an exotic dark granite counter. A custom-made hutch matches the cabinetry perfectly. The new open concept design lets guests move freely between kitchen, dining area and family room. A triple window in the dining area and double window over the sink area meet the owner’s requirement for bringing in more natural light.

This master bath ‘Renovision’ came with three main requests from the homeowner: more storage, a larger shower and a luxurious look that feels like being at an upscale hotel. The Renovisions team accomplished these wishes and exceeded the clients expectations. Request number 1: more storage. The existing closet was reconfigured to accommodate better storage for towels and bath supplies making it both functional and attractive. The custom built pull-out hamper was perfect. The long vanity and center tower offers much more cabinet space and drawer storage compared to what they had, especially with the increased vanity height. Request number 2: A larger shower. Working within the existing footprint we were able to build a shower that is nearly a foot deeper as space was available. Creating a large rectangular cubby provides plenty of space for shampoos and soaps. The frameless sliding glass shower enclosure keeps the space open and airy while allowing the beautiful Carrera-look porcelain wall tiles to be the focus of this master bath. Request number 3: a luxurious look. Turning their once boring, builder grade bathroom into an upscale hotel-like space was challenging, however, not a problem for the Renovisions team and their creative ways of resolving design snags along the way. Re-locating the doorway to the bathroom was one way to create a more spacious flow in and out of the space. Having the right design to start was half the battle – installing the beautiful products right the first time to ensure a proper fit and finish worthy of the upscale feel is the other half. The delicate tile detail in the shower cubby is the ‘jewelry’ in the room – the soft curves of this 2-tone wave design tile adds a dramatic feel and enlightened mood this client loves. Overall, the homeowner was happy with every solution-based approach to all requests – their once dated builders bath is now bright, open and airy with a soft grey wall color adding to the soothing feel of this master bath.

An adjacent area originally displaced was incorporated into the kitchen by removing a few walls to tie it in to the new space. Transformed into an attractive dinette bar, the complex task of incorporating stairs in the kitchen was successfully accomplished with a beautiful custom designed stainless steel and glass railing and a quaint bench seat. A cluttered closet was transformed into a functional walk in pantry just around the corner. Jurs took advantage of fourteen-foot ceilings by stacking beautiful maple cabinetry over eight feet high around the perimeter of the kitchen. Elegant glass doors with frosted glass lit from behind wrap the entire kitchen for a dramatic effect in the evening. The island was custom designed to suit the specific needs of the cook. Standard height work surfaces were created on either side of the island for food prep and chopping on two Sipo Mahogany wood tops. The center island of Cambrian honed black granite was set at 37 ½” high, perfectly suited for a tall cook! The large curved breakfast bar easily accommodates groups of kids, as well as guests and family during entertaining. New floors tie the entire living space together with White Ash Hardwood and a granite looking Porcelain tile from Italy. Full height granite backsplashes add depth, while situated on dramatic Crema Bordeaux granite counter tops that boast colors of the Grand Canyon. Frameless, wide style Shaker doors and Stainless Steel accents emphasize the warm, yet simple contemporary nature of this beautiful new space.

An extreme makeover turns an unassuming lanai deck into an outdoor oasis. These Bonita Bay homeowners loved the location of their home, but needed it to fit their current lifestyle. Because they love to entertain, they wanted to maximize their outdoor space—one that would accommodate a large family and lots of guests. Working with Progressive Design Build, Mike Spreckelmeier helped the homeowners formulate a list of ideas about what they wanted to achieve in the renovation; then, guided them through the process of planning their remodel. The renovation focused on reconfiguring the layout to extend the outdoor kitchen and living area—to include a new outdoor kitchen, dining area, sitting area and fireplace. Finishing details comprised a beautiful wood ceiling, cast stone accents, and porcelain tile. The lanai was also expanded to include a full size bocce ball court, which was fully encased in a beautiful custom colonnade and screen enclosure. With the extension of the outdoor space came a need to connect the living area to the existing pool and deck. The pool and spa were refinished; and a well thought-out low voltage remote-control relay system was installed for easy control of all of the outdoor and landscape lighting, ceiling fans, and hurricane shutters. This outdoor kitchen project turned out so well, the Bonita Bay homeowners hired Progressive Design Build to remodel the front of their home as well. To create much needed space, Progressive Design Build tore down an existing two-car garage and designed and built a brand new 2.5-car garage with a family suite above. The family suite included three bedrooms, two bathrooms, additional air conditioned storage, a beautiful custom made stair system, and a sitting area. Also part of the project scope, we enlarged a separate one-car garage to a two-car garage (totaling 4.5 garages), and build a 4,000 sq. ft. driveway, complete with landscape design and installation.

Our clients, a family of professionals with 2 young kids, approached us to renovate their early 2000’s Toronto home to make it better suit the needs of their family. Although they were happy with the Kitchen layout, they requested that we update the existing cabinetry, and add additional cabinetry for increased storage. In the Laundry Room, they needed a storage solution for cleaning materials, and an updated laundry sink. They wanted the Basement to be a comfortable family space to spend time together, and for the kids to have a space to play. The Kitchen cabinets were dated and starting to fall apart, and the Master En-Suite was dated and awkwardly shaped, with a tight walk-in shower. In the Basement, the HVAC bulkhead was awkward and unsightly, and the space was not ideal for the kids to play, due to outdated carpeting, and a lack of storage space for their toys. We spent time getting to know our clients to design a space that optimized functionality and comfort for their family. In the Kitchen, we kept the existing layout, but added a tall cabinet for pantry and broom storage. A new island was built with a space to accommodate a built-in microwave, to keep it from cluttering the countertop. The new white oak tall cabinets and island cabinets were complimented by light coloured marble-looking quartz countertops and the handmade subway tile backsplash for a fresh, updated look. In the Master Ensuite, we replaced the large, dated deck-mounted tub with a semi-freestanding tub, tucked nicely into the corner. The extra space this created allowed us to add a walk-in shower without the awkward angle that had existed prior to the renovation. The new walk-in shower featured a ceiling mounted showerhead, and a useful ledge for toiletries. We even had enough space to add a bonus make-up table to match the new double vanity. Both were custom built to be floating for a modern look, and easier maintenance. In the Laundry Room, we installed the washer and dryer side by side, instead of stacked. This allowed for a long working countertop and upper storage cabinets that were custom built. Additionally, a hanging rack installed above the sink is perfect for drying small items, and the adjustable shelves and dividers in the custom built cabinetry will provide plenty of convenient space to store cleaning materials. In the Basement, we widened the bulkhead to allow us to center the wall-mounted TV, and added custom media cabinets with floating shelves to accommodate electronics. The space was made more comfortable for the kids to play with new vinyl heated flooring, and tall cabinets with adjustable shelves, dividers, and deep drawers to keep all of their toys organized. All of these updates provided our clients with a home that fits their family’s needs and lifestyle. If your home isn’t functional for your family, contact us to learn more. We’re the Renovator You Can Count On!

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

An adjacent area originally displaced was incorporated into the kitchen by removing a few walls to tie it in to the new space. Transformed into an attractive dinette bar, the complex task of incorporating stairs in the kitchen was successfully accomplished with a beautiful custom designed stainless steel and glass railing and a quaint bench seat. A cluttered closet was transformed into a functional walk in pantry just around the corner. Jurs took advantage of fourteen-foot ceilings by stacking beautiful maple cabinetry over eight feet high around the perimeter of the kitchen. Elegant glass doors with frosted glass lit from behind wrap the entire kitchen for a dramatic effect in the evening. The island was custom designed to suit the specific needs of the cook. Standard height work surfaces were created on either side of the island for food prep and chopping on two Sipo Mahogany wood tops. The center island of Cambrian honed black granite was set at 37 ½” high, perfectly suited for a tall cook! The large curved breakfast bar easily accommodates groups of kids, as well as guests and family during entertaining. New floors tie the entire living space together with White Ash Hardwood and a granite looking Porcelain tile from Italy. Full height granite backsplashes add depth, while situated on dramatic Crema Bordeaux granite counter tops that boast colors of the Grand Canyon. Frameless, wide style Shaker doors and Stainless Steel accents emphasize the warm, yet simple contemporary nature of this beautiful new space.

SET INCLUDES: -Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16" -Trims -Jamb -Hinges -Passage Handle Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating. It is not recommended to paint. Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame. Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions. Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2". Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16". Introducing the Modern Single Interior Door from the Lucia Collection, a sleek and stylish addition to any modern interior. Made from premium quality wood with a solid core, this door features a sophisticated White Silk finish that will elevate the look and feel of any room. The door comes with a 3-panel design, adding a touch of elegance to any space. Its versatile design makes it perfect for use in both residential and commercial spaces. The Modern Single Interior Door from the Lucia Collection is designed to accommodate various hinge options, making it easy to install in any standard door frame. Its solid construction ensures that it will provide long-lasting durability and functionality. Part of the Lucia Collection, known for its timeless designs and superior quality materials, the Modern Single Interior Door is a smart investment for any homeowner or business owner. Its elegant and sophisticated design makes it a perfect addition to any interior design. Upgrade your interior design with the Modern Single Interior Door from the Lucia Collection and experience the perfect combination of style and functionality. Whether you are looking to update your home or office, this door is sure to impress. Don't wait any longer, order yours today and transform your space with this stunning addition. SOLID CORE Solid wood core made by laminated wood using Ciplex technology. CIPLEX by SARTO High-end film layer that is applied on top of the laminated wood Made in Italy. NO FORMALDEHYDE Environmentally friendly using only latest eco-friendly materials. Company requires use of only the safest materials. We care about our planet, the environment and you and your loved ones. Sarto Doors are Ideal for use in hospitals and childcare centers. SOUND ATTENUATION Door's 40mm thick solid wood construction yields 30% noise reduction over standard doors. CONSTRUCTION Door is manufactured from a single piece of wood and will give several generations of normal usage with minimal care.

SET INCLUDES: -Door Slab, thickness 1 9/16" -Trims -Jamb -Hinges -Passage Handle Door made of solid pine wood and eco-veneer coating. It is not recommended to paint. Door is not pre-drilled for the hardware and not pre-attached to the frame. Assembly of frames and trims required. Door works with all swing directions. Minimal rough opening can be calculated: door width + 2"; door height + 1 1/2". Thickness of the door slab is 40 mm or 1 9/16". Introducing the Modern Single Interior Door from the Lucia Collection, a sleek and stylish addition to any modern interior. Made from premium quality wood with a solid core, this door features a sophisticated White Silk finish that will elevate the look and feel of any room. The door comes with a 3-panel design, adding a touch of elegance to any space. Its versatile design makes it perfect for use in both residential and commercial spaces. The Modern Single Interior Door from the Lucia Collection is designed to accommodate various hinge options, making it easy to install in any standard door frame. Its solid construction ensures that it will provide long-lasting durability and functionality. Part of the Lucia Collection, known for its timeless designs and superior quality materials, the Modern Single Interior Door is a smart investment for any homeowner or business owner. Its elegant and sophisticated design makes it a perfect addition to any interior design. Upgrade your interior design with the Modern Single Interior Door from the Lucia Collection and experience the perfect combination of style and functionality. Whether you are looking to update your home or office, this door is sure to impress. Don't wait any longer, order yours today and transform your space with this stunning addition. SOLID CORE Solid wood core made by laminated wood using Ciplex technology. CIPLEX by SARTO High-end film layer that is applied on top of the laminated wood Made in Italy. NO FORMALDEHYDE Environmentally friendly using only latest eco-friendly materials. Company requires use of only the safest materials. We care about our planet, the environment and you and your loved ones. Sarto Doors are Ideal for use in hospitals and childcare centers. SOUND ATTENUATION Door's 40mm thick solid wood construction yields 30% noise reduction over standard doors. CONSTRUCTION Door is manufactured from a single piece of wood and will give several generations of normal usage with minimal care.

Relocating from their home in Brisbane, Australia with ocean views to the Pacific, our clients envisioned a refresh for their new lakefront cottage on Pine Lake in West Bloomfield, Michigan. Completed in July 2024, we created new spaces, reimagined old ones, and even swapped places for a primary bedroom and its en suite bath. Our goal was to create a serene and soothing spa- like experience for the bathroom, all while maintaining gorgeous lake views. But this reconfiguration presented some challenges. The primary bedroom was oversized, while its adjacent bath was tiny and crowded. We completely flipped the locations of the bedroom and bathroom, even rerouting plumbing over the bar in the lower level to accommodate the freestanding tub. To maximize space, we designed large, walk-in dressing pantries that are as functional as they are beautiful, and lead to the large dual custom vanity. The vanity itself is freestanding to provide access for hand towel bath hardware on its sides. The his-and-hers unit contains built-in dividers, laundry hampers and trash pullouts to maximize its function. An enclosed water closet allows for privacy in the open concept bathroom, and is placed beyond the cabinetry. The star of this space is the large enclosed wet room. As the focal point of the bathroom, its oversized tiled walls and deep built-in bench allow for a steam or soaking in the tub while enjoying stunning lake views. The wet room is spacious and serene, and perfect for an end to a Michigan winter day.

The Aerius - Modern Craftsman in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Upon opening the 8ft tall door and entering the foyer an immediate display of light, color and energy is presented to us in the form of 13ft coffered ceilings, abundant natural lighting and an ornate glass chandelier. Beckoning across the hall an entrance to the Great Room is beset by the Master Suite, the Den, a central stairway to the Upper Level and a passageway to the 4-bay Garage and Guest Bedroom with attached bath. Advancement to the Great Room reveals massive, built-in vertical storage, a vast area for all manner of social interactions and a bountiful showcase of the forest scenery that allows the natural splendor of the outside in. The sleek corner-kitchen is composed with elevated countertops. These additional 4in create the perfect fit for our larger-than-life homeowner and make stooping and drooping a distant memory. The comfortable kitchen creates no spatial divide and easily transitions to the sun-drenched dining nook, complete with overhead coffered-beam ceiling. This trifecta of function, form and flow accommodates all shapes and sizes and allows any number of events to be hosted here. On the rare occasion more room is needed, the sliding glass doors can be opened allowing an out-pour of activity. Almost doubling the square-footage and extending the Great Room into the arboreous locale is sure to guarantee long nights out under the stars. Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

This home remodel is a celebration of curves and light. Starting from humble beginnings as a basic builder ranch style house, the design challenge was maximizing natural light throughout and providing the unique contemporary style the client’s craved. The Entry offers a spectacular first impression and sets the tone with a large skylight and an illuminated curved wall covered in a wavy pattern Porcelanosa tile. The chic entertaining kitchen was designed to celebrate a public lifestyle and plenty of entertaining. Celebrating height with a robust amount of interior architectural details, this dynamic kitchen still gives one that cozy feeling of home sweet home. The large “L” shaped island accommodates 7 for seating. Large pendants over the kitchen table and sink provide additional task lighting and whimsy. The Dekton “puzzle” countertop connection was designed to aid the transition between the two color countertops and is one of the homeowner’s favorite details. The built-in bistro table provides additional seating and flows easily into the Living Room. A curved wall in the Living Room showcases a contemporary linear fireplace and tv which is tucked away in a niche. Placing the fireplace and furniture arrangement at an angle allowed for more natural walkway areas that communicated with the exterior doors and the kitchen working areas. The dining room’s open plan is perfect for small groups and expands easily for larger events. Raising the ceiling created visual interest and bringing the pop of teal from the Kitchen cabinets ties the space together. A built-in buffet provides ample storage and display. The Sitting Room (also called the Piano room for its previous life as such) is adjacent to the Kitchen and allows for easy conversation between chef and guests. It captures the homeowner’s chic sense of style and joie de vivre.

This home remodel is a celebration of curves and light. Starting from humble beginnings as a basic builder ranch style house, the design challenge was maximizing natural light throughout and providing the unique contemporary style the client’s craved. The Entry offers a spectacular first impression and sets the tone with a large skylight and an illuminated curved wall covered in a wavy pattern Porcelanosa tile. The chic entertaining kitchen was designed to celebrate a public lifestyle and plenty of entertaining. Celebrating height with a robust amount of interior architectural details, this dynamic kitchen still gives one that cozy feeling of home sweet home. The large “L” shaped island accommodates 7 for seating. Large pendants over the kitchen table and sink provide additional task lighting and whimsy. The Dekton “puzzle” countertop connection was designed to aid the transition between the two color countertops and is one of the homeowner’s favorite details. The built-in bistro table provides additional seating and flows easily into the Living Room. A curved wall in the Living Room showcases a contemporary linear fireplace and tv which is tucked away in a niche. Placing the fireplace and furniture arrangement at an angle allowed for more natural walkway areas that communicated with the exterior doors and the kitchen working areas. The dining room’s open plan is perfect for small groups and expands easily for larger events. Raising the ceiling created visual interest and bringing the pop of teal from the Kitchen cabinets ties the space together. A built-in buffet provides ample storage and display. The Sitting Room (also called the Piano room for its previous life as such) is adjacent to the Kitchen and allows for easy conversation between chef and guests. It captures the homeowner’s chic sense of style and joie de vivre.

Nestled at the end of a long flag lot driveway in Amagansett, NY, a young couple purchased the property with intentions to construct a second home for their growing family. A home that would not only be comfortable for the immediate family but also serve and grow on busy summer weekends to accommodate extended family, friends, children and guests. The tight lot along with the sizable program culminated in the building envelope being pushed to every limit, restriction and regulation one could imagine. The resulting architecture possesses a traditional Hamptons cottage exterior juxtaposed with modern elements that help break up the single mass. Centered on the entry façade is a large double story window that shrouds the floating switchback staircase on the interior. A bluestone patio wraps three sides of the home, which, in the rear, leads to a small in ground pool with a frameless glass railing. In the interior, custom white washed white oak floors run throughout the home as well as on the floating central staircase. For a more modern style of living, the open living, kitchen and dining area serve as one large entertaining space. In an area surrounded by sprawling Mcmansions, this tightly knit home functions more similar to that of a large NYC apartment by serving the perfect balance between maximized form with the right amount of function given the strict parameters. Large glass sliders open the living and dining rooms to the backyard patio and pool creating harmony between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Shaker style cabinets in the kitchen pair with a more contemporary staircase softened by the warmer wood tones of the vertical slats that surround it.

The Brahmin - in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc. Every area of this home is designed to be spacious and accommodating. Its supersized nook area, the extra-large Pantry area to handle all the trips from Costco, down to the oversized Mud Room with benches, cubbies and large closet, to the spacious Guest Room with a private bath all of which are on the Main floor, but wait there is more! Head through the corner of the kitchen and you’ll find the “12th man Room” an incredibly cozy sized room, that features a 2nd Fireplace, Vaulted Ceilings, a Wet Bar with an under cabinet refrigerator, a sink, microwave for the popcorn and last but not least the Big Screen for Game Day! Be the Fan! Sit down, immerse yourself into the couch and turn it up! Commercial or Halftime?, …..just head outside and enjoy a breath of fresh air in the oversized back yard and throw some ball to remember the old days or drift into your favorite athlete’s stance and get geared up for the second half! Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1 Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

A family of five, who lives in a prestigious McLean neighborhood, was looking to renovate and upgrade their 20-year-old kitchen. Goals of the renovation were to move the cooktop out of the island, install all professional-quality appliances, achieve better traffic flow and update the appearance of the space. The plan was to give a French country look to this kitchen, by carrying the overall soft and creamy color scheme of main floor furniture in the new kitchen. As such, the adjacent family room had to become a significant part of the remodel. The back wall of the kitchen is now occupied by 48” professional range under a custom wood hood. A new tower style refrigerator covered in matching wood panels is placed at the end of the run, just create more work space on both sides of the stove. The large contrasting Island in a dark chocolate finish now offers a second dishwasher, a beverage center and built in microwave. It also serves as a large buffet style counter space and accommodate up to five seats around it. The far wall of the space used to have a bare wall with a 36” fireplace in it. The goal of this renovation was to include all the surrounding walls in the design. Now the entire wall is made of custom cabinets, including display cabinetry on the upper half. The fireplace is wrapped with a matching color mantel and equipped with a big screen TV. Smart use of detailed crown and trim molding are highlights of this space and help bring the two rooms together, as does the porcelain tile floor. The attached family room provides a casual, comfortable space for guest to relax. And the entire space is perfect for family gatherings or entertaining.

Typical of bungalows and city lots, the footprint of this home was narrow with living spaces in front, bedrooms in back and kitchen centrally located. However, unlike most bungalows, the hall running from front to back have been closed off to, presumably, accommodate a walk-in pantry. Couple that with the fact that this circa 1925 bungalow had seen a lot of living – read boisterous children and remodeling trends like z-brick, soffits, and fluorescent overhead lighting – the kitchen was due for a major overhaul. Truly the hub of this house, the modest 11’ x 12’ kitchen was most in need of additional countertop space, convenient garbage/recycle bin, counter-depth refrigerator, storage aids, informal dining for two, and sound-proofing to enable this musically adept family to coexist despite varied schedules. Gone are the wall soffits, boxy overhead lighting, six-foot baseboard heat unit, extra deep refrigerator, refurbished cabinets, laminate countertops, z-brick wall covering, and makeshift door swags. Enter rich mahogany cabinets, roll and pull-out storage units, endcap spice storage, gorgeous granite tops, marble backsplash, LED lighting, acoustic insulation and solid-wood doors. Under the guise of such a handsome room, provisions such as a period style sink allow for more efficient use of corners with pull-out half-moon trays for storage. Redirecting the baseboard heat to a compact, toekick unit, means more cabinet and counter space – perfect for a baking and/or entertaining area removed from the basic work triangle. The eating area, also, doubles as a work station with drawers for office supplies and dedicated outlet for cable tv. Functional yet beautiful, this kitchen is at the ready as its owners look forward to their golden years. Designed by: The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn Photography by: Dawn Jackman For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com URL http://www.kitchenstudio-ge.com