We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

Another common trait we find in homes of this era is that the refrigerator is often located at the back of the kitchen. By anchoring the fridge on the outside edge of the kitchen, the amount of traffic is reduced, making for a better experience for both the cook and the person getting snacks from the fridge. You’ll also notice that we removed the microwave from the upper cabinets and installed an under-counter microwave drawer. This neat little appliance is becoming a popular alternative to traditional microwaves, as it allows for easier, safer access (who ever thought pulling a hot dish out of a microwave that is above shoulder height was a good idea, anyway?!) Not only is it easier to reach, but it automatically slides out like a drawer instead of opening with a swing door. This design has a lot more space inside than its traditional counterpart. Many models can also be used as a warming drawer to keep dishes warm after they have been prepared. Our clients love the sleek look provided by this appliance and the fact that it contributes to a clean, clutter-free countertop. Final photos by Impressia.net.

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

Notice hand-crafted decorative detail on bannister and exceptionally close miter fit. That's craftsmanship! What gives with the cracks on top of the end cap post? We get this from time to time when dealing the natural products into which good old mother nature imprints some kind of personal character trait like cracks and knots and grain—a quick look in the mirror illustrates the point. This is why people want natural wood in the first place —CHARACTER. Synthetic products are designed to mimic nature and do pretty well in most respects. But if you want perfection, don't ask for natural materials—you won't get it, unless of course you take the big picture view of the overall impact and then, well it just might reach perfection. We're big fans of the Grand Canyon. Just say'n.

54 Hulbert Avenue in Nantucket is an example of the creativity of architect Elizabeth Churchill and David Bently and the workmanship and management of Patrick Hehir, one of Nantucket's fine builders. The wood used in the room is old growth cypress. Jaeger & Ernst cabinetmakers take particular pride in the work of this home. Working with Elizabeth Churchill the details seamlessly intwine with the structure of the home creating a feeling of age and warmth. When a person walks in they are comforted by the wonderful feelings they and their families engendered by craftsmanship and design. We can not under estimate the affects on young individuals when living within such craftsmanship design. Imparting a sense of quality, of functional environments and exceptional design is not as assumed in the world of their upbringing as we might like. Value may be perceived in many ways, but enabling generational traits is not usually one. Jaeger & Ernst cabinetmakers strive to contribute in our small way to this development of good character.

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

The client was keen on green which was kept in mind while designing. A few characteristic traits of the client’s own personal style were identified by the designer and implemented hence the feel of the home was unconventionally ethnic, green and fluid. Thus the home was a result of the client’s own personal taste meeting the designers signature stroke.

Royal's Factory and its review: The business that Royal now runs in Shanghai was originally established by his father in Hong Kong. The legacy of this workmanship lies with Royal's father. At age 20, he was apprenticed to a traditional Chinese carpenter in Shanghai and learnt the long-established customs of furniture manufacture and furniture upholstery. After moving to Hong Kong, he was fortunate to study and work with a master craftsman from France, who specialized in furnitures. This experience allowed him to integrate his knowledge of both Eastern and Western practices, catering to both local and international clients. When Royal and his family moved to Shanghai seven years ago, the family business came full circle, opening Little Dragon in the city where Royal's father had first learnt the craft of furniture making. Royal has a special affinity for furniture making, having studied classic and modern techniques under father's direction from the age of 16 years. He is genuinely passionate about furniture making (especially furnitures). Over the last 8 years, our business has grown significantly, due mainly to the glowing referrals we receive from our loyal customers, who enjoy our personalized service and attention to detail. "You can't get a better marketing strategy than word-of-mouth," says owner Royal Wong, who believes the success of our family business is based on the quality of the craftsmanship and service our staff provide. We also believe that detailed hand-finished work provides its own quality assurance and our confidence in this craftsmanship is reflected in our lifetime service guarantee. All tastes and styles are catered to, as the store offers more than 5,000 quality samples and fabric swatches. An enormous array of options await - smooth leather, luxurious velvet, magnificent satin tapestry designs and comfortable modern fabrics such as cotton-linen blends and ultra-suede. As upholstery support and padding is dictated by individual taste, customers can choose from a diverse range of filling materials, which are assembled by hand. Specialized workshop processes ensure the quality and quantity of these materials, as they are individually weighed then encased in a special lining fabric. Customers that choose a made-to-order furniture know just what they want, and that's usually a furniture that will retain its original size, shape and support over the years. Changes in style and taste are easily accommodated with interchangeable and replaceable furniture covers. Our custom-made furnitures and chairs, of unique design and style, are vivid reflections of the personality and taste of their owners. Like tailor-made clothing, the quality of the design and materials are specifically suited to the end user. Over the last seven years, we've collected an interesting range of anecdotes from our customers, some of whom will go to great lengths to get a Little Dragon furniture into their home. One client, whose custom-made furniture was too large to fit through his front door, hoisted it through a third floor window via a pulley. Another, having relocated his Little Dragon furniture from Shanghai, to the United States, to Singapore, visited China especially to pick up some soft furnishings from our store. Amongst our high profile customers over the years are some of Hong Kong's premier five-star hotel presidents, business titans, film stars and Shanghai's consul-generals. Perhaps one of our most faithful customers is the legendary Hong Kong actor, Andy Lau, who asked his interior decorator to work directly with us to complete the design of his entire mansion in Hong Kong. The repair and restoration of antique furniture is a unique skill that we offer our customers. Our European clients, in particular, have strong recollections of furniture handed down through the ages and appreciate the opportunity to put some life back into family heirlooms which hold such fond memories of those now departed. One French customer, referred by a friend, entrusted us with a armoire that had been in the family for three generations. Our company's objective is the same as its clients - to retain the integrity of the original craftsmanship and refresh the unique traits of an individual furniture piece. For this reason, Royal's customers can be considered a rather special community as they are willing to come from far and wide to benefit from his unique skill set. The company's integrity and heritage are much like that of the pieces they work on – handed down from father to son and continued throughout the generations. It is no wonder that the business has an international reputation which draws clients from all corners of the globe to Shanghai.

Royal's Factory and its review: The business that Royal now runs in Shanghai was originally established by his father in Hong Kong. The legacy of this workmanship lies with Royal's father. At age 20, he was apprenticed to a traditional Chinese carpenter in Shanghai and learnt the long-established customs of furniture manufacture and furniture upholstery. After moving to Hong Kong, he was fortunate to study and work with a master craftsman from France, who specialized in furnitures. This experience allowed him to integrate his knowledge of both Eastern and Western practices, catering to both local and international clients. When Royal and his family moved to Shanghai seven years ago, the family business came full circle, opening Little Dragon in the city where Royal's father had first learnt the craft of furniture making. Royal has a special affinity for furniture making, having studied classic and modern techniques under father's direction from the age of 16 years. He is genuinely passionate about furniture making (especially furnitures). Over the last 8 years, our business has grown significantly, due mainly to the glowing referrals we receive from our loyal customers, who enjoy our personalized service and attention to detail. "You can't get a better marketing strategy than word-of-mouth," says owner Royal Wong, who believes the success of our family business is based on the quality of the craftsmanship and service our staff provide. We also believe that detailed hand-finished work provides its own quality assurance and our confidence in this craftsmanship is reflected in our lifetime service guarantee. All tastes and styles are catered to, as the store offers more than 5,000 quality samples and fabric swatches. An enormous array of options await - smooth leather, luxurious velvet, magnificent satin tapestry designs and comfortable modern fabrics such as cotton-linen blends and ultra-suede. As upholstery support and padding is dictated by individual taste, customers can choose from a diverse range of filling materials, which are assembled by hand. Specialized workshop processes ensure the quality and quantity of these materials, as they are individually weighed then encased in a special lining fabric. Customers that choose a made-to-order furniture know just what they want, and that's usually a furniture that will retain its original size, shape and support over the years. Changes in style and taste are easily accommodated with interchangeable and replaceable furniture covers. Our custom-made furnitures and chairs, of unique design and style, are vivid reflections of the personality and taste of their owners. Like tailor-made clothing, the quality of the design and materials are specifically suited to the end user. Over the last seven years, we've collected an interesting range of anecdotes from our customers, some of whom will go to great lengths to get a Little Dragon furniture into their home. One client, whose custom-made furniture was too large to fit through his front door, hoisted it through a third floor window via a pulley. Another, having relocated his Little Dragon furniture from Shanghai, to the United States, to Singapore, visited China especially to pick up some soft furnishings from our store. Amongst our high profile customers over the years are some of Hong Kong's premier five-star hotel presidents, business titans, film stars and Shanghai's consul-generals. Perhaps one of our most faithful customers is the legendary Hong Kong actor, Andy Lau, who asked his interior decorator to work directly with us to complete the design of his entire mansion in Hong Kong. The repair and restoration of antique furniture is a unique skill that we offer our customers. Our European clients, in particular, have strong recollections of furniture handed down through the ages and appreciate the opportunity to put some life back into family heirlooms which hold such fond memories of those now departed. One French customer, referred by a friend, entrusted us with a armoire that had been in the family for three generations. Our company's objective is the same as its clients - to retain the integrity of the original craftsmanship and refresh the unique traits of an individual furniture piece. For this reason, Royal's customers can be considered a rather special community as they are willing to come from far and wide to benefit from his unique skill set. The company's integrity and heritage are much like that of the pieces they work on – handed down from father to son and continued throughout the generations. It is no wonder that the business has an international reputation which draws clients from all corners of the globe to Shanghai.

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman

We took a builder basic home and did what others said could not be done. We removed a structural wall that divided the family room -dining area with the living room. Moved the kitchen from its original layout to face the backyard with a view the whole family could enjoy. We focus on clean, simple lines, minimalism, and functionality without sacrificing beauty. White walls, wood floors, modern furniture, and minimalist decor are all hallmark traits of a California aesthetic. A lot of cost were invested into changing the structure so we keep the materials simple, but we were still able to add wood features in the home like the island, the warm toned light fixture centered over the island adds depth to this personal home. Designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin Builder Artistic Design and Remodeling Photographer James Furman