The client wanted to have an existing apartment remodeled and the kitchen, the bathroom and the powder room redesigned on a large-scale. For this purpose, the existing kitchen was gutted and also the wall to the storeroom was removed, which created much more space. She wanted a central kitchen element as a meeting place for family, friends and guests, flanked by a simple kitchenette and a wall unit with maximum storage space. A two-sided access to the kitchen makes it now easy to store purchases on short distances and to reach the nearby dining table in the open plan living area. White was chosen as the basic color for the cabinet furniture, which blends perfectly with the warm wooden elements of the surface material and the floor made of patterned ceramic tiles. All seems cozy and homely. Suspended lamps with vintage settings give the room a special touch. The existing interior bathroom was also gutted. We replaced the bathtub with a generous shower facility. The vanity unit in a classic oak look provides a lot of storage space, even for a washing machine and a dryer. The opposite wall construction offers additional storage space for a variety of personal items, but also technical units such as a hot water tank. The generous mirror coating creates a greatly enlarged space that turns this small bathroom into a spa oasis. The open-plan two-floor room concept was elegantly coordinated in terms of colors – white as the dominant color is alternated by delicate shades of gray. The existing wooden staircase was color-adapted with a special coating. Minimalist elements such as a fireplace in a concrete look give the room a modern touch, without neglecting the factor of coziness.

Kathy Brandt, Mandy Moskowitz and Drakakis Architecture collaborated to design a modern style kitchen featuring Ultracraft cabinetry in the Richmond II door style with Walnut Peppercorn finish. The kitchen also includes JennAir Panel Ready appliances. Countertop and other materials were provided by others. "Finding a contractor for the demo was the hardest part. Mandy perfectly interpreted our needs and aesthetic, really nailing the layout in an awkward space. Kathy was wonderful, consistently helping us navigate through odd changes due to external factors. I love the new layout of the kitchen," said the client. “The kitchen was a very oddly shaped which made it challenging to accommodate the built-in refrigerator, wall ovens and refrigerator drawers while still having cabinets for storage as well as countertop space,” said Kathy. "Modifying cabinet specifications to fit both the space and appliances was key for a successful layout. The client had a clear vision and was fantastic to work with. Despite some initial issues with the order, they handled it calmly, allowing us to revise the layout smoothly. I'm very happy with how the design worked out, providing functional space without overcrowding any of the appliances." Photos courtesy of BTW Images.

In the Eugene area, this stunning bathroom remodel exudes glamour and contemporary elegance. Neil Kelly design consultant Gregory Thomas transformed the space into a luxurious spa retreat, featuring a striking marble tile vanity wall, a sleek freestanding soaking tub, and a spacious shower complete with a functional bench. To enhance the glam factor, Thomas selected gold and satin brass finishes for the fixtures, complementing minimalist window casings and high-gloss cabinets. Despite challenges like exterior walls and plumbing logistics, innovative solutions like furring out walls and precise plumbing rerouting were implemented. Special features include trim-less windows and doors, meticulously aligned vanity elements, and large-format porcelain tiles with integrated storage niches. The result is a harmonious, serene space that perfectly balances modern aesthetics with functional design.

Kevin Meechan Imagine waking up to beautiful long-range mountain views every morning from your bed. This prominent Craftsman Luxury Home definitely has the WOW Factor. Large Dormers, Gabled Roofs and Timber Detailing provide a Dramatic Entry to this gorgeous Ridge Top home. The massive Great Room with Vaulted Ceilings and expansive Arched Windows provide a birds-eye view of rolling horse pastures. The large Granite Kitchen Island is every Chefs dream. The Master Bath Garden Tub, Walk-in Shower with double sink Vanity provides tranquility. The beautifully stained-interior floors, trim, crown-molding and timber beams are all hand-crafted by our team of Master Carpenters. Perfect for every outdoor lover, this home features a spacious screened-in deck, two covered decks and a hot tub deck.

Kevin Meechan Imagine waking up to beautiful long-range mountain views every morning from your bed. This prominent Craftsman Luxury Home definitely has the WOW Factor. Large Dormers, Gabled Roofs and Timber Detailing provide a Dramatic Entry to this gorgeous Ridge Top home. The massive Great Room with Vaulted Ceilings and expansive Arched Windows provide a birds-eye view of rolling horse pastures. The large Granite Kitchen Island is every Chefs dream. The Master Bath Garden Tub, Walk-in Shower with double sink Vanity provides tranquility. The beautifully stained-interior floors, trim, crown-molding and timber beams are all hand-crafted by our team of Master Carpenters. Perfect for every outdoor lover, this home features a spacious screened-in deck, two covered decks and a hot tub deck.

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures. Visual Comfort pendant light pair strikes over the large island.

Description of Waterfront Home Design Challenge: The task was to fill a vast space with 14-foot walls soaring to a peak of 30 feet, using cabinetry that would not appear undervalued or insubstantial. The main question was determining the appropriate height for the cabinetry, considering the scale and proportion of the space, the walk-through to adjoining rooms, window heights, and the height of the refrigerator. Solution: By carefully analyzing these factors, we were able to create cabinetry that perfectly scaled to the grand dimensions of the room. The floor plan featured two islands that effectively filled the space. Key elements included #TheGalley workstations, drop-down televisions, #MouserCabinetry, and secret doors leading to a hidden scullery, all contributing to an extraordinary project.

Richmond Hill high rise condo owners needed a window treatment for their floor-to-ceiling living room windows with southern exposure that would reduce heat gain yet still allow them to see the fabulous downtown Toronto skyline and chose Signature Series solar roller shades with a 5% openness factor. Fabric is Spectra 5 and colour is Sterling which perfectly complements their decor. A cassette valance was chosen which gives the shades a nice finished look. In addition to improving interior comfort by reducing solar heat gain, solar roller shades also protect flooring, furniture, and artwork from harmful UV rays.

We worked alongside ACG Architects and accessible kitchen design specialist, Adam Thomas to create this stunning wheelchair-accessible kitchen so our client could prepare, cook and serve meals for her family independently. We designed this kitchen to have three different heights to enable our client and family to prepare and cook food easily. For example, the accessible worktop with a custom-made sink was made to be 870mm - the perfect height for a wheelchair user. Other key features in this design include wheelchair level ovens with tray slides that sit directly under two Neff Slide & Glide ovens, a Neff Steamer and a Microwave, so hot oven trays can be moved easily across each tray slide. A pull-out shelf allows for food/trays to be moved easily to the worktop level that was designed to be lower than standard for wheel-chair use. In front of the hob, there is also a protective lip at the edge of the worktop to stop a pan from boiling over onto the floor, or onto the client's lap. A stone sink was also custom made by Cosentino, so it wasn’t too deep for our client to reach into. The architects included wood slatting across the entire ground floor that creating a stunning feature in the kitchen space. Each slat was designed to run with precision over the door units - there were also toasters and pull-out drawers hidden behind this area which were designed to be isolated from the power when the doors were closed. Mixing different materials and textures in a kitchen space created interest and contrast. The striking mix of the stained wood slatting, Graphite Grey cabinetry and durable Dekton Keon worktops in this collaborative kitchen design creates a real wow factor. This kitchen design works for each family member with varying needs and heights so that it is a space that allows for the whole family to enjoy and create memories together. Photography by: Paul Craig Kitchen designed by The Myers Touch in collaboration with Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt Architects & Adam Thomas adamthomasconsultancy.com

Western Outdoor Design & Build has teams of outdoor living experts, specializing in helping Southern California homeowners expand their living place. Many Southern California homeowners want to add a little wow factor to their backyard paradise and they aren’t sure how to do it. An outdoor fireplace can be the perfect backyard addition that guests will naturally migrate to at night. http://westernoutdoordesigns.com/gallery-outdoor-fireplaces-san-diego-orange-county.html

The front entry to this Victorian home was not impressive. The homeowner wanted a "wow" factor. The stenciling on the staircase with the rubber treads was a fun twist but did not go with the new style the client wanted to create. The goal was to make this entry more inviting and to emphasize the Victorian charm. The design started with a fresh coat of bright, warm, white paint. The Damask Wallpaper was used to emphasize the Victorian charm and draw you into the home. The stair risers were also stenciled with a pattern that coordinated with the wallpaper and also emphasized the staircase. A neutral, light tone was selected because this area of the home did not experience much natural light throughout the day. The large bookcase was removed because it was too heavy and did not create the right aesthetic balance. This was replaced with a small bench and given an eclectic vibe with patterned and textured textiles - pillows. The front entry table was a perfect find at an antique shop and the artwork print by William-Adolphe Bouguereau painted in 1890 which is reminiscent of the age of the home.

Trophy Club Rustic Glam, to us, concerned achieving the modern look they wanted for their home that was traditional in nature with heavy rustic features. With a few pieces already in place including a contemporary curved sofa and metallic silver breakfast nook table, we used that starting point to begin interjecting the right amount of modern touches that would balance the rustic and reach the wow factor end result desired. One important change was updating the light fixtures with bold statements that transition the new look throughout. Luxurious window treatments also aided in calming down the rustic woods. We especially enjoyed a unique room project; The bonus wine room attached to the Kitchen was always a challenge for the homeowners to find the right functionality. The new high top bar and low profile stools, along with a customized wine barrel-top table and "corkscrew" bar stools made for the perfect layout to entertain. Metallic wallpaper on the walls and zebra-print on the ceiling contrasted against the thick stone. These features as well as the custom wine racks and grapevine-esque crystal light fixture created a cozy and exciting place to lounge in their very own wine country. We just loved the end result and the homeowners couldn't believe the big reveal transformation.

Outdoor areas for entertainment and recreation play a key role in offering the residents with varied experiences, each with a function of its own. Engage yourself in open-air activities, take a dive in the pool or go fishing off the docks. To a location that’s celebrated for its marinas and golf courses, this residence checks all factors, defining a home that’s magnetic and fascinating beside a lake. Perched on a hill alongside Lake Austin is a modern expression of residential architecture. Stacked and staggered on a terrain, the ‘Big Horn’ project designed by Motif Architects visualizes an adventurous home that nestles within nature. Every level captures stunning views of the lake that kindle its residents to step out for recreational activities and outdoor entertainment. Arriving by a boat would be the perfect entry to this residence, building momentum and curiosity as you step out onto the docks.

This very social couple were tying the knot and looking to create a space to host their friends and community, while also adding much needed living space to their 900 square foot cottage. The couple had a strong emphasis on growing edible and medicinal plants. With many friends from a community garden project they were involved in and years of learning about permaculture, they wanted to incorporate many of the elements that the permaculture movement advocates for. We came up with a California native and edible garden that incorporates three composting systems, a gray water system, rain water harvesting, a cob pizza oven, and outdoor kitchen. A majority of the materials incorporated into the hardscape were found on site or salvaged within 20-mile of the property. The garden also had amenities like an outhouse and shower for guests they would put up in the converted garage. Coming into this project there was and An old clawfoot bathtub on site was used as a worm composting bin, and for no other reason than the cuteness factor, the bath tub composter had to stay. Added to that was a compost tumbler, and last but not least we erected an outhouse with a composting toilet system (The Nature's Head Composting Toilet). We developed a gray water system incorporating the water that came out of the washing machine and from the outdoor shower to help water bananas, gingers, and canailles. All the down spouts coming off the roof were sent into depressions in the front yard. The depressions were planted with carex grass, which can withstand, and even thrive on, submersion in water that rain events bring to the swaled-out area. Aesthetically, carex reads as a lawn space in keeping with the cottage feeling of the home. As with any full-fledged permaculture garden, an element of natural building needed to be incorporated. So, the heart and hearth of the garden is a cob pizza oven going into an outdoor kitchen with a built-in bench. Cob is a natural building technique that involves sculpting a mixture of sand, soil, and straw around an internal structure. In this case, the internal structure is comprised of an old built-in brick incinerator, and rubble collected on site. Besides using the collected rubble as a base for the cob structure, other salvaged elements comprise major features of the project: the front fence was reconstructed from the preexisting fence; a majority of the stone edging was created by stones found while clearing the landscape in preparation for construction; the arbor was constructed from old wash line poles found on site; broken bricks pulled from another project were mixed with concrete and cast into vegetable beds, creating durable insulated planters while reducing the amount of concrete used ( and they also just have a unique effect); pathways and patio areas were laid using concrete broken out of the driveway and previous pathways. (When a little more broken concrete was needed, we busted out an old pad at another project a few blocks away.) Far from a perfectly polished garden, this landscape now serves as a lush and inviting space for my clients, their friends and family to gather and enjoy each other’s company. Days after construction was finished the couple hosted their wedding reception in the garden—everyone danced, drank and celebrated, christening the garden and the union!

Outdoor areas for entertainment and recreation play a key role in offering the residents with varied experiences, each with a function of its own. Engage yourself in open-air activities, take a dive in the pool or go fishing off the docks. To a location that’s celebrated for its marinas and golf courses, this residence checks all factors, defining a home that’s magnetic and fascinating beside a lake. Perched on a hill alongside Lake Austin is a modern expression of residential architecture. Stacked and staggered on a terrain, the ‘Big Horn’ project designed by Motif Architects visualizes an adventurous home that nestles within nature. Every level captures stunning views of the lake that kindle its residents to step out for recreational activities and outdoor entertainment. Arriving by a boat would be the perfect entry to this residence, building momentum and curiosity as you step out onto the docks.

Brief: Create storage option and elegant wow factor upon entering open space. This Cb2 console was the ideal piece to both create storage options and tie all open spaces together. We kept the decor simple and bright. The West Elm frameless mirror was the perfect final touch!

Brittany Havican A couple was desperately seeking a creative “wow” factor for their master bedroom. This bedroom was lacking in function and overall beauty. Taking inspirations from art, fashion, ethnic patterns, and mixing in a few tailored elements make this a room with more than just a view. Mixing metals and mirrors add sparkle. Addressing light control with custom window treatments that soften and frame the room while adding a luxe layer to the high drama of the metallic faux painted walls that serve as the eye-catching backdrop. The perfect shade of persimmon selected as the accents to this lovely mauve, champagne, and white color scheme for a more edgy take on the overall project for client’s who wanted out of the beige box.

Kevin Meechan Imagine waking up to beautiful long-range mountain views every morning from your bed. This prominent Craftsman Luxury Home definitely has the WOW Factor. Large Dormers, Gabled Roofs and Timber Detailing provide a Dramatic Entry to this gorgeous Ridge Top home. The massive Great Room with Vaulted Ceilings and expansive Arched Windows provide a birds-eye view of rolling horse pastures. The large Granite Kitchen Island is every Chefs dream. The Master Bath Garden Tub, Walk-in Shower with double sink Vanity provides tranquility. The beautifully stained-interior floors, trim, crown-molding and timber beams are all hand-crafted by our team of Master Carpenters. Perfect for every outdoor lover, this home features a spacious screened-in deck, two covered decks and a hot tub deck.

Kevin Meechan Imagine waking up to beautiful long-range mountain views every morning from your bed. This prominent Craftsman Luxury Home definitely has the WOW Factor. Large Dormers, Gabled Roofs and Timber Detailing provide a Dramatic Entry to this gorgeous Ridge Top home. The massive Great Room with Vaulted Ceilings and expansive Arched Windows provide a birds-eye view of rolling horse pastures. The large Granite Kitchen Island is every Chefs dream. The Master Bath Garden Tub, Walk-in Shower with double sink Vanity provides tranquility. The beautifully stained-interior floors, trim, crown-molding and timber beams are all hand-crafted by our team of Master Carpenters. Perfect for every outdoor lover, this home features a spacious screened-in deck, two covered decks and a hot tub deck.