Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey. The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical. Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored. The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.

This project involved a full upgrade of window treatments for a traditional sash bay and adjacent tall windows. The goal was to improve light control, thermal performance, and aesthetics by installing made‑to‑measure plantation shutters and bespoke blinds. The result is a cohesive, high‑quality finish that respects the property’s character while adding modern convenience. Scope of Work - Full site survey and precise measuring of all windows. - Manufacture and supply of bespoke plantation shutters for the bay sections. - Supply and installation of made‑to‑measure roller blinds with blackout lining for tall sash windows. - Motorisation for long‑drop blinds where required, plus wiring and testing. - Final adjustments, sealing, and a quality inspection. Challenges and Solutions - Long drop blinds: For windows with a 3 m drop we specified reinforced headrails and high‑torque motors to prevent sagging and ensure smooth operation. - Sash window geometry: Custom shutter panels were designed to fit bay angles and sash reveals, using discreet fixings to preserve original frames. - Insulation and noise reduction: We selected thicker louvres and lined blinds to improve thermal retention and reduce external noise. Results and Benefits - Improved comfort: Noticeable reduction in drafts and better temperature control. - Enhanced light control: Motorised blinds provide effortless, precise daylight management. - Aesthetic upgrade: A unified, premium finish that complements the sash architecture. - Increased property appeal: The upgrade enhances perceived value and homeowner satisfaction. For a free on‑site measure and quote in Cumbernauld and the greater Glasgow area, contact us to schedule a visit. We document each project with before and after photos to showcase workmanship and results.

For this project, the goals were straight forward - a low energy, low maintenance home that would allow the "60 something couple” time and money to enjoy all their interests. Accessibility was also important since this is likely their last home. In the end the style is minimalist, but the raw, natural materials add texture that give the home a warm, inviting feeling. The home has R-67.5 walls, R-90 in the attic, is extremely air tight (0.4 ACH) and is oriented to work with the sun throughout the year. As a result, operating costs of the home are minimal. The HVAC systems were chosen to work efficiently, but not to be complicated. They were designed to perform to the highest standards, but be simple enough for the owners to understand and manage. The owners spend a lot of time camping and traveling and wanted the home to capture the same feeling of freedom that the outdoors offers. The spaces are practical, easy to keep clean and designed to create a free flowing space that opens up to nature beyond the large triple glazed Passive House windows. Built-in cubbies and shelving help keep everything organized and there is no wasted space in the house - Enough space for yoga, visiting family, relaxing, sculling boats and two home offices. The most frequent comment of visitors is how relaxed they feel. This is a result of the unique connection to nature, the abundance of natural materials, great air quality, and the play of light throughout the house. The exterior of the house is simple, but a striking reflection of the local farming environment. The materials are low maintenance, as is the landscaping. The siting of the home combined with the natural landscaping gives privacy and encourages the residents to feel close to local flora and fauna. Photo Credit: Leon T. Switzer/Front Page Media Group

This Wheat Ridge home underwent a complete exterior transformation featuring board and batten siding, black fiberglass windows, custom black doors, and natural wood porch accents. The goal was to create a cohesive design that unified the home's original structure and multiple additions while improving curb appeal and long-term durability. The finished exterior pairs soft ivory siding with bold black accents for a timeless modern farmhouse aesthetic. New windows, doors, and carefully planned architectural details create a clean, cohesive appearance that feels both updated and true to the home's character. The result is a striking exterior designed for low maintenance, lasting performance, and future enhancements.

Example of a transitional living room design in Orange County

Planning a Modern Kitchen Remodel Every successful kitchen remodeling project begins with careful planning. Before construction starts, it is important to evaluate the existing layout, cabinet storage, lighting conditions, appliance placement, and how the kitchen connects to surrounding living spaces. For this project, the primary design goals included: Creating a brighter open concept kitchen Improving functionality and circulation Increasing pantry and cabinet storage Maximizing natural light with skylight integration Creating a clean and timeless design aesthetic The final layout centered around a large kitchen island that functions as both a workspace and gathering area. Open concept kitchens remain highly desirable because they improve communication between living areas while helping the home feel larger and more connected. Importance of Natural Light Natural lighting plays a major role in modern kitchen remodeling. In this renovation, the skylight significantly improved brightness throughout the space and helped create a softer, more inviting atmosphere during the day. Combined with recessed lighting and pendant fixtures above the island, the layered lighting design provides both functional task lighting and balanced ambient illumination. Construction and Material Selection Kitchen remodeling projects require coordination between multiple construction trades including demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and finish carpentry. Bi-Color Kitchen Remodel Design One of the standout features of this project is the bi-color kitchen remodel design. The warm natural wood island creates contrast against the surrounding white cabinetry while maintaining a clean and balanced appearance. This approach helps: Add visual depth to the kitchen Create separation between functional zones Prevent the space from feeling overly monochromatic Introduce warmth into modern kitchen designs The oversized island also provides additional storage, countertop workspace, and seating opportunities for everyday use and entertaining. Countertops, Cabinetry, and Finishes The kitchen includes: Quartz countertops with waterfall-style edges Custom shaker-style cabinetry Stainless steel appliances Modern pendant lighting Wide plank engineered hardwood flooring Full-height backsplash surfaces The neutral color palette was selected to create a timeless appearance while allowing flexibility for future décor and furniture changes. Pantry Kitchen Renovation Storage planning is one of the most important aspects of kitchen remodeling. The pantry kitchen renovation focused on improving organization and accessibility while maximizing usable storage space. Modern pantry systems help homeowners: Reduce countertop clutter Improve kitchen organization Store small appliances more efficiently Increase long-term functionality Thoughtful storage design can significantly improve the daily usability of a kitchen without increasing square footage. Real Estate Value and Long-Term Benefits Kitchen remodeling remains one of the highest-value residential renovation projects in the Bay Area real estate market. A professionally designed open concept kitchen can improve buyer perception, increase property appeal, and modernize outdated layouts. Features such as large islands, skylights, pantry storage, and bi-color cabinetry continue to remain highly desirable among homeowners and future buyers alike. Common Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes Some common mistakes homeowners should avoid include: Insufficient lighting design Poor circulation planning Limited storage solutions Choosing low-durability materials Overcrowded layouts Inadequate electrical preparation Working with experienced remodeling professionals can help avoid costly design and construction issues later in the process. Common Questions How long does a kitchen remodel usually take? Most kitchen remodeling projects take approximately 6–12 weeks depending on the project scope, inspections, material lead times, and structural modifications. Do kitchen remodels require permits? Permits are often required when plumbing, electrical, structural, or layout changes are involved. Requirements vary depending on the city and scope of work. What is a bi-color kitchen remodel? A bi-color kitchen remodel uses two cabinet finishes or tones to create visual contrast and a more customized design appearance. Does an open concept kitchen increase home value? Open concept kitchens are highly desirable because they improve functionality, natural lighting, and overall flow throughout the home. Conclusion A well-planned kitchen remodeling project combines thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and durable materials to create a space that is both functional and visually appealing. Features such as skylight integration, open concept layouts, pantry kitchen renovations, and bi-color cabinetry continue to remain popular among Bay Area homeowners seeking timeless and practical kitchen designs. Careful planning, professional coordination, and attention to detail are essential for creating a kitchen that performs well aesthetically and functionally for many years. -------> If you’re planning a kitchen remodeling project, consulting with an experienced contractor can help simplify the design and construction process while avoiding costly mistakes. Book a consultation: calendly.com/lemonremodeling

Our clients sought to transform a functional but uninspired ensuite into a high-end, spa-like retreat. The original room occupied a converted garage space, which presented a unique architectural hurdle: an excessively high ceiling that made the room feel cold and cavernous rather than intimate. The goal was to balance this industrial heritage with the "pampered relaxation" of a luxury hotel. To achieve a cohesive, tranquil atmosphere, we focused on tactile materials and atmospheric volume: Spatial Proportions: We lowered the ceiling to a more intimate height, which not only improved the acoustics but also allowed for the installation of integrated, soft-glow lighting and high-performance extraction. Climate Control: To ensure comfort throughout the year, we installed a high-efficiency underfloor heating (UFH) system. This was essential to mitigate the thermal mass of the large-format porcelain tiles, ensuring the floor remains warm to the touch. Dual-Purpose Luxury: The layout was meticulously planned to accommodate both a deep soaking bath and a spacious walk-in shower, providing the couple with versatile options for both quick refreshment and long, indulgent soaks.

Set in the picturesque Hughendon Valley in High Wycombe, this kitchen project showcases a stunning blend of modern design and inviting warmth. The client’s goal was to create a kitchen that was not only visually striking but also highly functional and welcoming. The kitchen boasts a sleek black Nobilia handleless design, offering a contemporary and streamlined look. This is perfectly complemented by top-of-the-line Siemens appliances, providing aesthetic appeal and unmatched performance. A beautifully detailed Dekton worktop adds a touch of luxury and practicality to the kitchen. The central island, featuring seating and a hob, becomes the heart of the space – perfect for social cooking and casual dining. Open wooden shelving was incorporated to balance the modern black finish, adding a natural warmth to the space. The under-cabinet and worktop lighting enhance functionality and create a soft, inviting ambience. Are you inspired by the Black Nobilia Kitchen and looking to infuse a blend of modern elegance and warmth into your kitchen? Get in touch to see how we can bring this balance into your home.

The versatility and elegance of whites and grays, bold movements, and showstopping patterns in Elliptic Quartzite make it simply a must-have for any remodeling project if the goal is a huge impact with a minimum of remodeling effort. Its unrivaled performance, free from scratching, etching, and other flaws that natural stones usually have, is one more reason to consider this beautiful stone for any remodeling project, whether it’s your kitchen countertop, waterfall island, backsplash, or bathroom vanity top.

The Gun Lake Residence replaces a small, aging, existing house located on a narrow peninsula on Gun Lake, in west Michigan. The peninsula is neatly populated with century-old homes that quietly occupy this uncommon setting. The project site offers extraordinary views of the water in multiple directions and extends to the east with open space, bordering on an historic, 19th-century community ice house. A primary project goal was to reimagine the relationship of the house to its surroundings while remaining sensitive to the communal context of the neighboring properties. The design seed of the new project included rotating the footprint of the existing house 90 degrees to open the long side of the home toward the lake, maximizing views and gaining optimal benefit of the linear site. Drawing inspiration from the traditional lake vernacular of the neighboring houses, the two principal roof forms of the new house reciprocate the setting -- the modern, clean lines of the upper gable roof upholds the clarity and tradition of the neighborhood, while the lower roof mimics the extension of the landscape and invites improvisational use. The horizontal flat roof allows use of the deck in all weather and cantilevers the most used public spaces into the landscape in a band of captured horizontal space. A wood-clad retaining wall refines a cut into the earth and harbors a transitional, outdoor room between the water and the basement. At 2200 finished square feet, the conditioned building envelope is compact. And like the exterior, the interior form responds directly to its use. The upper floor is a monastic repetition of modest sleeping cells and bathrooms with unique directional views, combined with a grand central stair and master bedroom at each corner that captures myriad views of the water, over the trees, in all directions. The main floor utilizes a core of small, functional spaces to shield the adjacent road, and forms a backdrop to the open interior spaces. Aided by the reaching, cedar-bellied roof, the living, dining, and kitchen spaces spill to the outdoors through an unusually porous exterior wall. Three sliding glass doors–including one at 20 feet wide–and a finished, surrounding ground plane cohere the landscape to the main living level. Super-insulated wood-framed walls, triple-paned aluminum-clad wood windows, and a structurally insulated roof panels make-up the core of the building envelope, and additional exterior high-performance design features include geothermal heating/cooling and a green roof. Cementitious lap siding, concrete panels, hardwood decking, cedar soffits, and river rock comprise the exterior finish. In addition to cedar ceilings, interior finishes include porcelain ceramic tile, cork flooring, tight pile wool carpet, and neutral painted walls -- designed in quiet tones to highlight the most important interior ingredient: views outside.

For this project, the goals were straight forward - a low energy, low maintenance home that would allow the "60 something couple” time and money to enjoy all their interests. Accessibility was also important since this is likely their last home. In the end the style is minimalist, but the raw, natural materials add texture that give the home a warm, inviting feeling. The home has R-67.5 walls, R-90 in the attic, is extremely air tight (0.4 ACH) and is oriented to work with the sun throughout the year. As a result, operating costs of the home are minimal. The HVAC systems were chosen to work efficiently, but not to be complicated. They were designed to perform to the highest standards, but be simple enough for the owners to understand and manage. The owners spend a lot of time camping and traveling and wanted the home to capture the same feeling of freedom that the outdoors offers. The spaces are practical, easy to keep clean and designed to create a free flowing space that opens up to nature beyond the large triple glazed Passive House windows. Built-in cubbies and shelving help keep everything organized and there is no wasted space in the house - Enough space for yoga, visiting family, relaxing, sculling boats and two home offices. The most frequent comment of visitors is how relaxed they feel. This is a result of the unique connection to nature, the abundance of natural materials, great air quality, and the play of light throughout the house. The exterior of the house is simple, but a striking reflection of the local farming environment. The materials are low maintenance, as is the landscaping. The siting of the home combined with the natural landscaping gives privacy and encourages the residents to feel close to local flora and fauna. Photo Credit: Leon T. Switzer/Front Page Media Group

A masterclass in minimalist gourmet design. This kitchen is a breathtaking fusion of high-performance functionality and architectural elegance, crafted for the discerning chef who demands both style and substance. The space is defined by its monolithic silhouettes and a sophisticated palette of champagne tones, deep charcoals, and rich wood textures. Signature elements include a premium marble-topped breakfast island, integrated professional-grade appliances, and bespoke floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that provides a seamless, clutter-free environment. Highlighted by intelligent layered lighting—from under-cabinet task glows to sculptural ceiling fixtures—this kitchen transitions effortlessly from a high-efficiency workspace to a refined social arena. At Hashtag Design Studio, we create kitchens that aren't just for cooking; they are for making memories in a setting of absolute prestige. #KitchenDesign #LuxuryKitchen #GourmetLife #InteriorDesign #HashtagDesignStudio #ModernKitchen #RajkotInteriors #GujaratDesign #ModularKitchen #ChefSpace #BespokeInteriors #DesignerKitchen #KitchenGoals #HighEndHomes #LuxuryLifestyle #InteriorArchitecture #HomeHeart #SleekDesign #KitchenInspiration #ModernSocialSpace #CulinaryLuxury

Home conversions from a single-family home to a mother/daughter home may be just what your family needs to cut costs or care for an aging parent. You must designate two distinct living areas with two separate entrances in your home for the independence and privacy of your aging parents. The majority of floor plans are not ideal for mother-daughter living, so trust the professionals at Cavalier Homes Inc. to perform a transformative mother/daughter home conversion that will give your family two separate living spaces. Since many people are unfamiliar with the term, a mother-daughter home is simply a house with separate living spaces, such as two bathrooms, two bedrooms, two kitchens, two living rooms, etc. Even though the extended family lives under one roof, they appear to be divided between two houses. However, if one member of the family requires the assistance of another in an emergency, such as an elderly parent falling, the other family members can respond quickly. A mother/daughter home is not the same as a duplex or a single-family home with an in-law suite. A mother/daughter conversion creates completely separate living quarters for the family. A mother-daughter home can be arranged in a variety of ways, and many different kinds of families could benefit from it. For instance, the most typical arrangement for mother-daughter homes is for elderly parents to live with their adult child and their family. The elderly parent retains their independence and dignity in this type of mother-daughter home while also having access to a lot of assistance from their adult children. In addition, a family with a son or daughter who has recently graduated from college but isn’t quite ready to buy or rent a living space of their own would profit from a mother/daughter conversion. They receive a separate living space so they can live independently, even though they are technically still living with their parents. No matter what your family’s particular requirements are, Cavalier Homes can make a mother/daughter conversion of your house to meet everyone’s needs and preferences. Our design experts can create two separate spaces for the two distinct personalities or families that live in them, all while maintaining the cohesion that binds the mother/daughter home together. Your home is your calling card, and your happiness is our greatest goal, as well as our greatest pleasure. Our qualified professionals in West Islip, Long Island can help you with your mother/daughter conversion or any type of home remodeling project. Call us at 631-422-9138 or email us at cavalierhomes@aol.com to set up a meeting to discuss your needs and how we can help you meet them.

The design approach focused on updating the kitchen while honoring the home’s original character. Rather than introducing a completely different aesthetic, the goal was to reinterpret the existing warmth, texture, and craftsmanship in a fresh way. A key decision was selecting cabinetry that could reflect the richness of the original bamboo. This led to a custom walnut finish that felt authentic to the home yet elevated in its execution. Eclectic materials were thoughtfully layered to create interest and personality, but carefully balanced so the space felt curated, cohesive, and enduring. The updated design includes slate flooring, Plato Cabinetry in a custom walnut finish, and 3 cm soapstone countertops that add depth and natural character. High-performance Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances—including a Sub-Zero refrigerator and beverage center, along with a Wolf speed oven and hood—bring modern functionality to this artfully composed space.

The homeowners wanted to transform an outdated kitchen into a modern, high-performance space designed for a serious home cook. Their goal was to integrate premium appliances—specifically a Wolf range and a high-capacity hood system—while avoiding the cost and disruption of a full kitchen replacement. This project focused on thoughtful design, strategic reuse of existing elements, and custom solutions that delivered a refined contemporary aesthetic without compromising functionality or efficiency.

Living room - transitional living room idea in Orange County

The Art of Culinary Precision. Step into a masterclass of minimalist gourmet design, where high-performance functionality meets architectural elegance. These kitchens are meticulously crafted for the modern home, featuring a sophisticated interplay of champagne tones, deep charcoals, and rich wood textures. The space is defined by its monolithic silhouettes and bespoke floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that provides a seamless, clutter-free environment. Signature elements include integrated professional-grade appliances, high-gloss taupe finishes, and monolithic breakfast islands that serve as the heart of the home. Bathed in an intelligent layered lighting scheme—from under-cabinet task glows to hidden cove illumination—each kitchen transitions effortlessly from a high-efficiency workspace to a refined social arena. At Hashtag Design Studio, we believe your kitchen should be more than a utility; it should be a handcrafted environment built for a lifestyle of uncompromising luxury. #KitchenDesign #LuxuryKitchen #GourmetLife #InteriorDesign #HashtagDesignStudio #ModernKitchen #RajkotInteriors #GujaratDesign #ModularKitchen #ChefSpace #BespokeInteriors #DesignerKitchen #KitchenGoals #HighEndHomes #LuxuryLifestyle #InteriorArchitecture #HomeHeart #SleekDesign #KitchenInspiration #ModernSocialSpace #CulinaryLuxury

Kitchen photo in Orange County

Set in the picturesque Hughendon Valley in High Wycombe, this kitchen project showcases a stunning blend of modern design and inviting warmth. The client’s goal was to create a kitchen that was not only visually striking but also highly functional and welcoming. The kitchen boasts a sleek black Nobilia handleless design, offering a contemporary and streamlined look. This is perfectly complemented by top-of-the-line Siemens appliances, providing aesthetic appeal and unmatched performance. A beautifully detailed Dekton worktop adds a touch of luxury and practicality to the kitchen. The central island, featuring seating and a hob, becomes the heart of the space – perfect for social cooking and casual dining. Open wooden shelving was incorporated to balance the modern black finish, adding a natural warmth to the space. The under-cabinet and worktop lighting enhance functionality and create a soft, inviting ambience. Are you inspired by the Black Nobilia Kitchen and looking to infuse a blend of modern elegance and warmth into your kitchen? Get in touch to see how we can bring this balance into your home.