Will Calhoun - photo This shot shows the main staircase, the corner of the laminate Kitchen cabinets, steps to the Entry, the hall toward the Utility Closet and the route to the basement/laundry. Note that the riser heights are all different to add a physical barrier to anticipated ease and comfort.

Our Oakland studio went ultra bold with the design of the guest suite at the Kips Bay Designer Showhouse. We chose the theme of a harmonious union of the physical and virtual universe through thoughtful, curated design. We used a dichromatic color theme in the bedroom to create a soothing sanctuary. Luxurious bedding, stylish fabrics, and soft velvet window treatments add a distinctive touch. In the bathroom, we added the classic black and white color theme with stylish tiles and attractive fixtures, creating a beautiful, bold contrast. The whole project emphasizes the past-meets-present-meets-future concept resulting in our most daring design yet! ---Designed by Oakland interior design studio Joy Street Design. Serving Alameda, Berkeley, Orinda, Walnut Creek, Piedmont, and San Francisco. For more about Joy Street Design, click here: https://www.joystreetdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.joystreetdesign.com/portfolio/kips-bay-showhouse-guest-suite

This kitchen was reimagined to improve flow, increase usable storage, and create a cleaner, more cohesive layout while maintaining the existing footprint. The original space felt segmented with a closed-off pantry, heavy stone elements, and inconsistent cabinetry that limited function. The new design removes visual and physical barriers, introduces a more efficient working layout, and incorporates a warm, neutral palette with layered textures. A mix of painted cabinetry, natural wood tones, and copper accents creates contrast while still feeling cohesive. The addition of a peninsula adds prep space and casual seating, while improved lighting and a taller window bring more light into the space.

**Check out the video of this transformation on our website** This small kitchen was way too small for this 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms apartment. Not only was it a very small kitchen, but the physical location of it made it very difficult to make it any bigger. There wasn't much that could have been done without incurring astronomical cost, which would get little or no return on the investment. The client wanted a kitchen that can be optimized in its current location to add a ton of value for resale. This was difficult to do, because there was no moving of any mechanical around in the kitchen and even if we wanted to, the management of the building would not allow. For those of you who live in condos, co-ops or apartment building, you know how difficult it is to rework these foot prints. When we showed up, we saw the problems, but we also saw a huge opportunity where we can achieve those goals in the small space. This was accomplished by making some key changes and to incorporate some new things that was not possible when this kitchen was built years ago. The crucial part of the design that would drive the entire new layout, was selecting the only appliance; that was the Refrigerator. Once we nailed down that refrigerator, we then proceeded to design the kitchen around it. We moved it to the other side of the wall where the sink was so that we can tap into the water line from the sink plumbing. It was crucial that it stays exactly 24" deep, not an inch more because we had to keep the entry as open as possible. Also, it was going to be directly in front of another big storage unit - The pantry. It is not ideal in most cases, but we needed the rest of the space to ramp up the design and open feel towards the side where all of the activities would take place, which happend to be the dining room and the view. Once all that was figured out, we re-positioned the sink, dishwasher and the range and proceeded to wrap the cabinets around the columns to integrate them into the space. Thirty- six inches cabinets height was used so that they can be installed higher towards the ceiling height to give more room rather than the standard 18" required height between the counter tops. This was done to make the room feel a lot bigger than it really was. Not to mention, we also didn't want the faucet to be buried under the cabinets so that was also a necessary design detail for the space. We then lowered both knee walls so that the counter top can sit on top of them, by removing that stop point that would have otherwise defined the kitchen area. This allowed us to pick up that extra footprint into the room for added prep space and enabled us to create the illusion of a kitchen that is looking longer than it really is. Every inch mattered when designing this kitchen and we made a conscious decision to use every one of that inch. White cabinets were selected to do just what white cabinets are design to do; make a small or dark room appear bigger, brighter and more open. In this kitchen, this was amplified the more because of the kitchen location. It was perfect! We knew we did justice to the space because while we were there taking some photos, a few potential buyers walked in and went straight for the kitchen! They said its design just to fit the apartment. Pantry roll out shelving, Double recycle bin, fancy handles, LED lighting, Quartz counter top, beautiful backslash tiles and grey linen floors finished off the kitchen which looked over a beautiful view of the George Washington Bridge from the top of this lovely 4th floor apartment. Credit to Masterpiece Tile and Marble (Annmarie on the selection of Tiles and countertop and Val on the Construction to complete this project). Davor Kokic Photography

This is a Home Staging Project. Not a full Interior Design Project. The purpose of staging is to showcase a properties physical traits and not detract from them. With staging "less is more". The goal is to add softness and color and a warm environment with out a lot of clutter. Photo credit: Vanessa Cruz

One of the biggest challenges on this project was a floor-to-ceiling window that landed smack-dab in the kitchen’s perimeter cabinetry, driving a physical and visual disconnect between the working countertop and the fridge/pantry area. We designed floor-to-ceiling open shelves, with a sheer metallic window treatment behind, to provide additional kitchen storage and display space, and to add a natural warmth and organic element. This shelving casework became an artistic focal point in the room, and we connected it to the rest of the space by adding natural wood pot drawers and counter stools with a beached wood base.

This featured project utilizes Montana Timber Products' ranchwood™ reclaimed barn wood alternative siding, our flagship product. ranchwood™ is a reclaimed barn wood alternative that it is milled from new, rough stock, kiln dried, chemical free wood. ranchwood™ is put through a texturizing and coloring process to create the aesthetic beauty of rustic wood siding. Authentic reclaimed barn wood and reclaimed barn wood alternatives are both great choices for your next home project. Typically less expensive than authentic reclaimed barn wood, ranchwood™ offers an uncompromising rustic wood beauty. Vintage wood, reclaimed barn wood and reclaimed barn wood alternatives are very popular building materials due to their aesthetic beauty, traditional look, and chemical free finish. If the environmentally friendly aspect of natural wood siding is important to you, be sure to do your homework when choosing your siding, interior accents, trim, timbers, or other wood siding products. Some companies choose to use degenerative chemicals to achieve the desired look and texture of rustic wood siding. This is not the case with Montana Timber Products. Montana Timber Product's most commonly seen rustic siding texture options are Circle Sawn and Wire Brushed. The Circle Sawn texture commonly seen on rustic reclaimed barn wood is created from the large circular saw blades used in more traditional milling practices. The Wire Brushed option, like the Circle Sawn, adds physical and aesthetic depth to the wood grain. In addition to the aesthetic beauty added from the texturing process, greater surface area is created, which allows the Seal-Once, 100% NO VOC waterproofer to more effectively penetrate the wood. Whether you are looking for siding, beams, flooring, or interior accents, Montana Timber Products offers a solution for your rustic needs. All Montana Timber Products’ prefinished wood siding utilizes Seal-Once, a 100% NO VOC waterproofer with a 10 year limited warranty against water ingress.

This indoor gym playroom is the ultimate family hangout, designed for staying active, healthy, and having fun together—especially for their tween daughter! With monkey bars, a climbing wall, swings, a punching bag, a yoga area, and even a Peloton, everyone gets their workout in. The calming neutral color palette creates a relaxing vibe, while organic wooden elements like climbing holds and Scandinavian wooden swings add a natural touch. Not only does this space support physical fitness, but it helps the daughter build strength, endurance, and grit—plus a real sense of accomplishment. It’s the perfect spot for the whole family to create lifelong healthy habits, all while having a blast!

Using baskets and containers to house items creates a clean and simple look for your closet
Walk-in closet - modern gender-neutral walk-in closet idea in Charlotte

Travel is more than just the act of going from one place to another; it’s an exploration of new perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, the journey holds the power to change you in unexpected ways. Exoticca Helps a lot to Travel. 1. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination Too often, we focus on reaching the destination, ticking off items on our travel bucket list. But some of the most memorable moments in travel happen when we slow down and engage with the world around us. Take time to walk through a bustling market, share a meal with a local family, or simply sit on a beach at sunset. These moments allow us to experience the true essence of a place beyond its landmarks. 2. Travel with Purpose In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers are seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences. Whether it’s volunteering in a foreign country, participating in eco-tourism, or learning a new skill, travel can be a gateway to personal growth. Traveling with purpose adds value to your journey and ensures that it impacts not only you but the places you visit. Volunteering in a community, helping preserve nature, or supporting local artisans can leave you with a sense of accomplishment and connection to the world. 3. The Magic of Cultural Immersion One of the best ways to travel is to truly immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting. Skip the tourist traps and spend time in local neighborhoods. Try the street food, learn a few words in the local language, and embrace local traditions. The more you engage with the culture, the richer your experience will be. This immersion leads to a greater understanding and respect for different ways of life, fostering deeper connections between people across the globe. 4. Sustainable Travel: A Responsibility for the Future As travelers, we must recognize the impact our journeys can have on the environment. Sustainable travel practices are becoming more essential than ever before. From reducing plastic usage to supporting eco-friendly accommodations, there are many ways to ensure that our travels leave a positive legacy. Before your trip, research sustainable activities, respect wildlife, and consider how your visit affects local ecosystems. This mindset not only protects the planet but enhances your overall travel experience by aligning it with a purpose. 5. Travel Challenges: Growth Through Adversity It’s not always smooth sailing. Missed flights, language barriers, unexpected weather, or cultural misunderstandings can make travel seem daunting. However, these challenges can also offer some of the most rewarding experiences. Overcoming adversity while traveling encourages adaptability, patience, and resilience. These moments allow you to connect more deeply with yourself and the world, turning what could be a frustrating experience into an unforgettable lesson in growth. 6. Rediscovering Yourself Through Travel The act of leaving behind your daily routine and exploring new places often leads to self-reflection. Away from the distractions of everyday life, you have space to reconnect with yourself. Whether it’s finding peace in nature, discovering a new passion, or challenging your comfort zone, travel is a powerful tool for self-discovery. Many travelers report feeling more energized, inspired, and aware of their true desires after a meaningful journey. 7. Tips for a Seamless Travel Experience To make the most of your travels, planning is key. Here are a few tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey: Research your destination: Learn about the local culture, customs, and etiquette to show respect and avoid misunderstandings. Pack smart: Pack light and include only essentials to keep your travels stress-free. A good travel bag and comfortable shoes are a must! Stay flexible: Sometimes, plans go awry. Stay adaptable and be open to spontaneous adventures. Engage with locals: The best recommendations often come from those who live in the area. Don't be afraid to ask for tips or hidden gems. Capture memories: While it’s important to live in the moment, capturing photos or journaling your experiences can help you relive your journey long after it ends. 8. The Future of Travel: Trends to Watch As we look to the future, the way we travel is evolving. Virtual reality and AI are changing the way we plan and experience destinations, allowing for more personalized and immersive adventures. Moreover, the rise of wellness travel is focusing on mental and physical health, with more travelers seeking destinations that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. Regardless of how travel continues to evolve, the spirit of discovery and connection will always remain at the heart of every journey. Conclusion: Traveling for a Better World Travel is a transformative experience that connects us to the world, broadens our understanding, and enriches our lives. By approaching travel with an open mind, a sense of responsibility, and a desire for authentic experiences, we not only enhance our journeys but contribute to the global community. As you pack your bags for your next adventure, remember that every step you take is an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more interconnected world.

Our Oakland studio went ultra bold with the design of the guest suite at the Kips Bay Designer Showhouse. We chose the theme of a harmonious union of the physical and virtual universe through thoughtful, curated design. We used a dichromatic color theme in the bedroom to create a soothing sanctuary. Luxurious bedding, stylish fabrics, and soft velvet window treatments add a distinctive touch. In the bathroom, we added the classic black and white color theme with stylish tiles and attractive fixtures, creating a beautiful, bold contrast. The whole project emphasizes the past-meets-present-meets-future concept resulting in our most daring design yet! ---Designed by Oakland interior design studio Joy Street Design. Serving Alameda, Berkeley, Orinda, Walnut Creek, Piedmont, and San Francisco. For more about Joy Street Design, click here: https://www.joystreetdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.joystreetdesign.com/portfolio/kips-bay-showhouse-guest-suite

Located in Bitez, this villa pool project merges the clean lines of contemporary architecture with Serapool’s refined design language. The Snow White Series, with its pure white tones, brings freshness and optical spaciousness to the space while creating a natural ambiance that integrates seamlessly with the water’s clarity. The Silver Traverten porcelain anti-slip terrace tiles add a luxurious touch to the landscaping with their sophisticated stone texture. With a water absorption rate below 0.5%, the products offer long-lasting durability and demonstrate strong resistance to UV rays and chemicals. The PTV ≥ 45° slip resistance ensures enhanced safety in wet areas. All these details provide more than just swimming comfort—they create a complete sense of luxury, visual harmony, and physical safety within the living space.

This is a Home Staging Project. Not a full Interior Design Project. The purpose of staging is to showcase a properties physical traits and not detract from them. With staging "less is more". The goal is to add softness and color and a warm environment with out a lot of clutter. Photo credit: Vanessa Cruz

Remarkable Condo Transformation at Grand Preserve Welcome to our latest project reveal: the stunning transformation of a 2,885 SF luxury condo. Join us as we take you on a room-by-room tour of this beautiful space and share the before and after moments that will leave you speechless. From a completely upgraded kitchen to a luxurious master bathroom, the results of our redesign have created an elegant, comfortable, and inviting living space that perfectly blends style and functionality. Let's dive in and explore the meticulous details of this awe-inspiring transformation. Reworked Front Entryway: A first impression sets the tone for the overall experience, and that is precisely what we aimed to achieve with the front entryway. We reconfigured this area to make it more welcoming and functional, adding stylish yet practical elements that would make any guest feel instantly at home. By removing a large, outdated built-in console, we gave this space an instant refresh and created a more visually harmonious entryway. Completely Upgraded Kitchen: The heart of every home is the kitchen, and this luxury condo got the full treatment. We replaced the old cabinetry with new, contemporary flat front cabinets, and installed white quartz countertops that ooze elegance. The addition of a new white beauty quartz island provides ample space for meal prep or casual dining, while the custom tile backsplash adds a stunning visual element. As the cherry on top, we installed top-of-the-line appliances for the ultimate cooking experience. Open Floor Plan: To create a more open and inviting living space, we removed the wall between the morning room and dining room. This smart design move allowed natural light to flow through the entire space, making it feel even larger and more welcoming. By connecting these two areas visually and physically, we created the perfect setting for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Master Bedroom Makeover: The master bedroom needed a breath of fresh air, and that's exactly what it got. We removed the dated carpeting and replaced it with new, elegant flooring that gives the room a more sophisticated and polished appearance. In this sanctuary, you can now enjoy a soothing and tranquil retreat away from everyday life. Master Bath Overhaul: A complete overhaul was in order for the master bathroom, and we went all out to create a spa-like oasis. The once-cramped space was opened up, and new, stunning flooring was installed. We added custom cabinetry for optimal storage and organization, and topped them with gorgeous new white quartz countertops. The shower was upgraded with elegant tile and the addition of a practical yet luxurious shower seat. New Exterior Sliding doors: Last but not least, we made a significant improvement to the exterior of the luxury condo by adding new, high-quality sliding doors. These not only enhance the condo's aesthetic appeal but also create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience by providing easy access to a breathtaking outdoor space. This remarkable luxury condo transformation attests to the positive impact of thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. Every detail of the project reflects our dedication to delivering a comfortable and stylish haven for our clients. The end result? A 2,885 SF wonderland that elevates everyday living and provides the perfect backdrop for making memories that will last a lifetime. We hope this transformation inspires you to reimagine your own living spaces and create the sanctuary you've been dreaming of. About Grand Preserve Nestled in the picturesque city of Naples, Florida lies the Grand Preserve, an exquisite residential community that offers its residents an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. Located just moments away from the breathtaking Vanderbilt Beach, the Grand Preserve immerses its residents in an environment of natural beauty, with stunning sunsets, rolling waves, and stretches of pristine sands that seem to stretch out to infinity. With unrivaled amenities and world-class services, the Grand Preserve is the ideal place for those who appreciate the finer things in life and expect nothing but the best. Whether you are a sunseeker, a beachcomber, or a nature lover, the Grand Preserve is the ultimate destination for those who want to experience the very best of Florida living. Home Builders in Naples Florida For 30+ Years Naples, Florida has long been a destination for those seeking luxury living in paradise. And when it comes to finding the perfect home to fit that lifestyle, you want to trust the experts – and that's where home builders with decades of experience come in. With over 30 years of building homes in Naples, Signal House has an unmatched knowledge of the local real estate market and a keen eye for design that perfectly complements the Florida lifestyle. From breathtaking waterfront properties to custom-built estates, we have the experience and expertise to bring your dream home to life. So why settle for a cookie-cutter house when you can have a custom-built masterpiece in the Sunshine State? Explore more about this transformative project and take a guided video tour on our website. Click here for an immersive experience you won't want to pass up: https://www.signalhousebuilders.com/portfolio/grand-preserve-condo-remodel

The island, by Crystal Keyline, is finished in Antique Ivory w/Brown Highlights and glass doors. It is the focal point of the kitchen, contrasting nicely with the Toasted Rye w/Brown Highlights cabinetry. The range-hood and cooktop area, also finished in Antique Ivory w/Brown Highlights, add an extra punch of interest. The Bayfield door style unifies the design. This custom kitchen required the complete customization of the space to the specific needs of the client, due to the on-set of a neuromuscular disorder. The space also had to function well for his wife who does most the cooking on a daily basis. The layout was designed for the couple to be able to work together in the kitchen, or independently. Although largely dictated by her husband's need for accessibility, the universal design of this kitchen is also extremely friendly for a the wife's smaller stature. The couple feels at home in this kitchen yet, it’s not obvious that someone with physical limitations utilizes this space. Typhoon Bordeaux granite countertops are layered in staggered heights for added visual interest.

Beautiful Seamless Curbless shower with custom built in bidet/lounger. His and Her Luxury Bathing in this wet room environment. Linear slot drain, Danver Stainless Steel powder coated cabinetry, oversized Kohler sink with touchless faucet. Water proof wall sconces to add ambient lighting while lounging in this bathing suite. Upscale Quart countertops with waterfall side. Support bars in various styles including drop down for ease of use. Custom built shampoo niches - luxury at every angle with ease of use for all family members both able bodies and those with physical challenges. Respect and Beauty abound!

This week, the Washington Post reported that studies prove: “spending time outdoors is linked to a “serious boost in well-being, the kind that lasts a lifetime.” Not only that, adds the Post, those who weekly spend two to three hours in natural settings are not only more likely to be happy with their lives, but the benefits to physical health were even greater — with 60 percent of such outdoor enthusiasts more likely to be in good health than their “cooped in counterparts.”

Add luxury items like multiple vanities, radiant floor heating, walk-in showers with multiple shower heads, and any other component you want for your new bath. If you can dream it, we can help you turn it into reality. You are only limited by your budget and physical space.

This new addition created an on-grade entry for physically challenged members of the family to use the new elevator located in the middle of the addition. The projecting part of the addition which covers the basement entrance is a greenhouse on the first floor. The left side is the new breakfast room with views of the entire, sun-filled back yard. The right side is a new stair to the first floor. Previously, the only access to the first floor was from an slippery exterior stair or a narrow interior basement stair. The entire basement was renovated into a game room with bar and also an entertainment center with wide screen TV. The four columns give a sense of character to the frequently used back door. The new foundation wall mortar was tooled to match the existing foundation wall. The new windows and transom lites break the character of the original colonial house allowing for maximum views and light in these informal, frequently used spaces.