Jackie and Sean loved the Algonquin neighborhood they lived in with the peaceful neighborhood and the close proximity to work and school. What they didn’t love was how outdated their home had become. With a cramped kitchen and an unused dining room, they decided a remodel was the perfect solution to their problem. They would be able to continue to live in the area they loved, while at the same time they could have the dream home they envisioned. After a thorough search, Jackie came across Advance Design Studio. She was impressed by all of the positive reviews she saw on the internet and saw herself identifying with all of the project stories she saw on the website. Once they met with designer Scott Christensen and owner Todd Jurs, they knew Advance Design was the right company to make their dreams a reality. The project consisted of four main areas: the kitchen/dining/powder room, the laundry room, the master bathroom, and the kid’s bathroom. They wanted to expand the kitchen into the seldom used dining room and add a large island for hosting parties and family gatherings. They also wanted new hardwood flooring throughout the first level. The laundry room needed to be more functional, and all three bathrooms were in dire need of updating. The closed off kitchen was opened up to create a sweeping space between the new eating area and the much larger kitchen. A handsome dry bar complete with a beverage refrigerator and lighted glass door cabinetry makes an elegant transition across from a peninsula area filled with storage. An additional decorative cabinet lighting up elegant dishware through the mullioned glass sits directly across from the drybar. An expansive island was critical to the kitchen plans. Jackie, Sean and Scott worked closely together to create just the right details for their design. They wanted the island to be functional in addition to being the centerpiece of the room. Added storage for the kid’s school supplies was hidden behind cabinet doors so the children could do their schoolwork right at the island, and a microwave drawer glides open with the touch of a finger hidden inconspicuously within the island space. The easy to care for Cambria Britannica Quartz island top with its sweeping grey and white marble look perched atop hand-carved Craftsman corbels was absolutely what they were hoping for, blending both beauty and function perfectly. Adding a nice contrast to the brightness of the quartz and the white cabinetry, Kodiak - Leather granite countertops were used to balance the light and dark tones of the space. Dura Supreme Classic White painted cabinets grace the perimeter, while Maple Poppy Seed stained cabinets with a beautiful soft grey woodgrain were used in the beverage center and island. The two tones compliment the large space balancing it out nicely creating interest and elegance with the simple Craftsman style full overlay doors. A deep warm Barnwood White Oak flooring was added throughout the lower level. The new floor brings additional contrast to the bright kitchen and provides unity with the now open floorplan as it rolls in to the foyer and family room. Final details like the show-stopping lunar like duo light fixtures complete the space and intermix expertly with crisscross details of the glass door mullions, the island bar seating and even accessories in the space. The small cluttered laundry room needed more space and more storage. With a busy family it seemed to overflow daily and did not have anywhere to hide the families “in and out stuff.” Scott designed the new space with a stackable washer and dryer and much more efficiently organized cabinetry. Doing laundry is now (almost!) a pleasure and keeping everyone’s “stuff” hidden, but readily accessible is now a snap. The master bath was not a place where the couple enjoyed spending time getting ready for their day. The tub almost never was used, so removing it made it possible to build an extra-large shower, replacing the small cramped cube of the previous shower they hated. Clean, horizontal lines softly draw your eye around the space with porcelain tile called Driftwood Sea spray. Full overlay cabinetry in a soft white vanity with double sinks makes getting ready for the day much more convenient for the busy couple. Long floor planks made of porcelain tile mimic real hardwood floors in a soft grey to compliment the shower, but with the ease and care of a tile surface. Cambrian Black Granite counters with a matte finish and under mount porcelain sinks with handsome brushed chrome hardware complete the handsome space. A real bonus in any master bath; a custom built in storage nook was tucked in the corner of the space for linens and heavenly storage. The kid’s bath was in sad shape because it was original to the house. To keep the budget in control, the tub which was in great condition was retained, but focus was on the new large brick style porcelain charcoal tile on the floor, crisp white new Craftsman style cabinetry with pretty furniture details on the corner base, a striking granite top with white under mount porcelain sinks and fresh hardware and faucets. Some beautiful soft grey wood mirrors to match mom and dads were custom sized and placed under new lighting, and 4 hooks were smartly arranged down the wall for kids’ towels. This couple was determined not to move, and made their house their dream home. Not only does their home function greatly now, but Jackie says, “When the neighbors come to visit, they’re asking if they can “steal” the design”! The added functionality, elegance, and open floor plan were exactly what this family needed in order to stay. Advance Design Studio, Joe Nowak

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Example of a classic master beige tile and porcelain tile marble floor freestanding bathtub design in Minneapolis with a drop-in sink, furniture-like cabinets, dark wood cabinets, marble countertops, a two-piece toilet and beige walls

This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

As with many homes, a lack of useful closet space was a real problem for these homeowners. After the decision to build an addition for a closet was made, the design of the master bathroom was next. New vanities, granite countertops, mirrors, and tile flooring were changed to match the level of the new closet. Upon completion of the master suite the homeowners were left to ponder updating the kitchen. With new cabinets, countertops, and a modern feel the kitchen is a big hit. Features include knotty alder cabinetry, a custom range hood. The final hurdle was the fireplace, after simplifying the design of the built-ins a elegant tile was installed with a floating mantle. After going through a large portion of this main floor, creating storage solutions and modernizing the feel of the space it left us to now wonder, what’s next?

Another referral from one of our favorite clients! The clients wanted to update their teenage son's bathroom which had a few wear and tear issues. There was talk to paint or replace cabinetry as the client had a vision and the current stain seemed to be in the way of that. They also wanted to be cost-effective, so we designed around the existing stained cabinetry. Tschida Construction helped with the execution and helped with some creative behind-the-scenes problems that popped up. Having a design-build team that works together is so important and Nick and his team are awesome. Photographer- Height Advantages

Master zero entry walk in shower
Inspiration for a large cottage master slate floor, gray floor and single-sink bathroom remodel in Other with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, a two-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink, granite countertops, beige countertops and a built-in vanity

Example of a mid-sized transitional kids' gray tile and ceramic tile gray floor bathroom design in Chicago with raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a two-piece toilet, gray walls and an undermount sink

This project was nearly a complete gut renovation of an existing Victorian built in the 1890’s. We did save or rebuild major elements such as the exterior millwork, ornate entry stair and stained glass windows. An addition to the south side of the house integrated the rooflines and exterior details to create a seamless blend between the old and new. The goal of the project was to modernize the house and interior layout while still keeping the feel of a traditional home. Major elements in the scope included a completely new open kitchen, expanded living room, new master bedroom and bath suite, all new family baths and powder room. The renovation also included a library to house the owner’s extensive book collection as well as a basement workout and family room area. One primary request of the owners was to rid the house of a bat infestation problem due to poorly detailed roof vents. Once we rebuilt the roof soffits and provided new insulation for the house, the bat issue was resolved.

Sutter Photographers The Hardware Studio - hardware Martinwood Cabinetry - millwork Studio GlassWorks - glass countertop Window Design Center - awning window Nonn's Showplace - quartz, granite countertops • The most difficult part of the project was figuring out all the technical details to install the glass counter-top, which would weigh about 300 pounds! • One goal was to avoid seeing the cabinet supports through the glass. The glass itself proposed problems because it had a wavy texture and separate confetti glass that could be added to the bottom. Therefore, we needed to add something below it. • A custom steel base was designed to carry the weight yet float the glass so you are able to see the beauty of the glass itself. A small 1/2 inch trim piece on the steel was added to accomplish this task. • Once the steel was made, we took it to the glass distributor. We turned the very heavy base upside down, traced the 1/2 inch trim piece on a full size piece of paper, and sent it to the glass manufacturer. • After this, the base was sent to a powder coater and the raw steel was transformed into a beautiful champagne color. • In the meantime, the glass manufacturer molded a channel for the glass to rest that would suspend the glass 1/2 inch higher than the powder coated steel base. • The glass manufacturer was instructed to make the top of the glass smooth so it would hold a plate without rocking; they added an extra layer of 1/4 inch glass after it was fired the first time to accomplish this. • When the base was brought to the job site, the carpenter installed a thick 6 inch block of wood through the tile and into the floor joists. The hollow 6 inch square base of the steel table was glued and screwed into the wood. The base was leveled and ready for the top to arrive several days later. • The glass installers put it over the base, and it fit PERFECTLY! (whew) • The steel base is 3 inches smaller than the glass, creating a see-through effect around the entire perimeter of the kidney bean shape. • The granite was then templated by using a specialized camera that measured the curve of the glass. However, upon arrival, the fit was less than perfect. Thanks to a patient and skilled granite installer from Nonn's Showroom who spent several hours hand grinding and polishing the curve on site until it fit perfectly. • A small bead of silicone between the granite and the glass was all that was needed to complete the perfect installation. • With a few shims under the end of the granite, the top is perfectly level! • Our client was extremely excited and very patient with the process because they trusted our abilities so that the end result would be spectacular.

Basement Bath Bryn Mawr PA. Want a basement bath from scratch? Sure, no problem its nothing a little jackhammering concrete and digging trenches for plumbing can’t solve. We changed a doorway to an unfinished storage area to a spacious full bath and hall with access to the remaining storage area. Now family and guests have a more convenient bath when hanging out in the finished basement. The clients also wanted a full shower for the kids after sports, guests staying over, or after a workout in the adjoining fitness room. Some interesting ceiling work was needed to go around the homes existing mechanicals while still maintaining a comfortable ceiling height. Durable and stylish vinyl floating floors are a great choice for the flooring. The Dreamline shower system looks clean and bright. The new bath and hall blend seamlessly with the already finished basement and seem original to the space.

The “Pinecliff” is a unique solution to a common problem in waterfront property: a narrow lot. What it lacks in width, this home makes up for in height and length, maximizing the available space and taking full advantage of what are sure to be expansive views from each of its three stories. Featuring porthole windows and outdoor upper decks, the “Pinecliff” exudes a distinctly nautical air, perching on its steep grade like a great docked ship. The entry-level functions as the main living space, featuring a half bath, entry area, kitchen, dining, and living room. One floor up is the laundry, bunkroom and master suite. The basement level is home to another bedroom suite and office space. Across the way, through the covered patio alcove, is the lower level family room, complete with kitchenette and walkout access to the water.

This room encompasses one of the most technical examples of woodwork we’ve seen in a long time. Normally, to create a raised panel wainscot wall, pieces of 1x wood are cut and used to create the boxes, and panel moldings are installed inside the frames to finish off the look. This can be done by typical finish carpenters. The problem is that over time, the numerous joints separate and look bad. In the case of this project, we wanted to avoid that pitfall and do something exquisite AND long-lasting. Over several days, each section of the wall was laid out to determine the appropriate size of each panel. Electrical outlets or switch plates that weren’t centered were moved. Each panel was then specially made at the shop out of 3/4” MDF because its smooth surface is ideal for painting. The raised panels (the pieces that go into each square opening) as well as the panel mouldings (the pieces that frame out each interior panel) were fabricated off site at the shop. Between the set-up, fabrication and the installation, two skilled craftsmen required three solid weeks to make each aspect absolutely perfect. Other finishing details including using a “Back Band” moulding to cap the top of the wainscot and using matching moldings (base, window casings and crown moldings) in areas that needed it for continuity of design. This room’s woodwork is an exquisite example of true craftsmanship. Words and pictures cannot describe the level of skill required for this project. Once everything was completed, it was sprayed with white enamel paint and wallpaper was installed above the wood wainscot to finish off the room. In a nutshell, each wall panel was constructed like a custom made high end cabinet. Literally.

The client had a shower space without a visual showing of damage until you looked at the ceiling in the kitchen. The project was exploratory after all other measures failed to find the leak. The client went with a new look after discovering the problems in the construction of the existing shower base and waterproofing process.

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Bathroom - large transitional master blue tile and glass tile porcelain tile bathroom idea in Portland with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a two-piece toilet, beige walls, a vessel sink and quartz countertops

"Kerry Taylor was professional and courteous from our first meeting forwards. We took a long time to decide on our final design but Kerry and his design team were patient and respectful and waited until we were ready to move forward. There was never a sense of being pushed into anything we didn’t like. They listened, carefully considered our requests and delivered an awesome plan for our new bathroom. Kerry also broke down everything so that we could consider several alternatives for features and finishes and was mindful to stay within our budget. He accommodated some on-the-fly changes, after construction was underway and suggested effective solutions for any unforeseen problems that arose. Having construction done in close proximity to our master bedroom was a challenge but the excellent crew TaylorPro had on our job made it relatively painless: courteous and polite, arrived on time daily, worked hard, pretty much nonstop and cleaned up every day before leaving. If there were any delays, Kerry made sure to communicate with us quickly and was always available to talk when we had concerns or questions." This Carlsbad couple yearned for a generous master bath that included a big soaking tub, double vanity, water closet, large walk-in shower, and walk in closet. Unfortunately, their current master bathroom was only 6'x12'. Our design team went to work and came up with a solution to push the back wall into an unused 2nd floor vaulted space in the garage, and further expand the new master bath footprint into two existing closet areas. These inventive expansions made it possible for their luxurious master bath dreams to come true. Just goes to show that, with TaylorPro Design & Remodeling, fitting a square peg in a round hole could be possible! Photos by: Jon Upson

QZ2705 HAILEE SCULPTED HANDCRAFTED CHANDELIER DESCRIPTION: Handcrafted chandelier of natural brass and plaster white. Descending crystal drops. At Alan Mizrahi Lighting Design, we especially emphasize exclusive creations, made by designers at home and abroad. No mass products, but one by one characteristic designs that offer you the possibility to add your own unique touch to your interior. Because of our close bonds with the designers, handmade designs are no problem. The possibilities are unlimited! In our continuing search for new discoveries, we often come in contact with original designers. That leads up to a continuing expansion of our stock. SPECIFICATIONS: Collection: Contemporary Shape: Suspended Size: 32” Width x 58” Height Adjustable (Custom sizes are also available) Metal Finished: Natural Brass (Custom finishes are available at no additional cost) Materials: Brass, Crystal Lights: 6 e12 Candelabra 60W UL Weight: 78 lbs Assembly: Each piece comes with easy to understand assembly instructions for your convenience. Dimmer Switch Compatible: Optional Shipping: Free Door-To-Door Shipping Worldwide! Rush Order: 4-6 Weeks; 15% added to the total Regular Lead Time: 6-10 Weeks Warranty: 3 years for pieces under 30”, 5 years for pieces over 30” SIZE OPTIONS: Size: Price: 22” Width x 48” Height $2,240.00 32” Width x 58” Height (as shown) $3,650.00 40” Width x 58” Height $4,816.00 46” Width x 58” Height $6,910.00 52” Width x 60” Height $8,580.00 60” Width x 70” Height $10,277.00 Custom sizes, colors and metal finishes available upon request.

Basement Bath Bryn Mawr PA. Want a basement bath from scratch? Sure, no problem its nothing a little jackhammering concrete and digging trenches for plumbing can’t solve. We changed a doorway to an unfinished storage area to a spacious full bath and hall with access to the remaining storage area. Now family and guests have a more convenient bath when hanging out in the finished basement. The clients also wanted a full shower for the kids after sports, guests staying over, or after a workout in the adjoining fitness room. Some interesting ceiling work was needed to go around the homes existing mechanicals while still maintaining a comfortable ceiling height. Durable and stylish vinyl floating floors are a great choice for the flooring. The Dreamline shower system looks clean and bright. The new bath and hall blend seamlessly with the already finished basement and seem original to the space.

We loved updating this 1977 house giving our clients a more transitional kitchen, living room and powder bath. Our clients are very busy and didn’t want too many options. Our designers narrowed down their selections and gave them just enough options to choose from without being overwhelming. In the kitchen, we replaced the cabinetry without changing the locations of the walls, doors openings or windows. All finished were replaced with beautiful cabinets, counter tops, sink, back splash and faucet hardware. In the Master bathroom, we added all new finishes. There are two closets in the bathroom that did not change but everything else did. We.added pocket doors to the bedroom, where there were no doors before. Our clients wanted taller 36” height cabinets and a seated makeup vanity, so we were able to accommodate those requests without any problems. We added new lighting, mirrors, counter top and all new plumbing fixtures in addition to removing the soffits over the vanities and the shower, really opening up the space and giving it a new modern look. They had also been living with the cold and hot water reversed in the shower, so we also fixed that for them! In their den, they wanted to update the dark paneling, remove the large stone from the curved fireplace wall and they wanted a new mantel. We flattened the wall, added a TV niche above fireplace and moved the cable connections, so they have exactly what they wanted. We left the wood paneling on the walls but painted them a light color to brighten up the room. There was a small wet bar between the den and their family room. They liked the bar area but didn’t feel that they needed the sink, so we removed and capped the water lines and gave the bar an updated look by adding new counter tops and shelving. They had some previous water damage to their floors, so the wood flooring was replaced throughout the den and all connecting areas, making the transition from one room to the other completely seamless. In the end, the clients love their new space and are able to really enjoy their updated home and now plan stay there for a little longer! Design/Remodel by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Photography by Versatile Imaging Less

An Arts & Crafts Bungalow is one of my favorite styles of homes. We have quite a few of them in our Stockton Mid-Town area. And when C&L called us to help them remodel their 1923 American Bungalow, I was beyond thrilled. As per usual, when we get a new inquiry, we quickly Google the project location while we are talking to you on the phone. My excitement escalated when I saw the Google Earth Image of the sweet Sage Green bungalow in Mid-Town Stockton. "Yes, we would be interested in working with you," I said trying to keep my cool. But what made it even better was meeting C&L and touring their home, because they are the nicest young couple, eager to make their home period perfect. Unfortunately, it had been slightly molested by some bad house-flippers, and we needed to bring the bathroom back to it "roots." We knew we had to banish the hideous brown tile and cheap vanity quickly. But C&L complained about the condensation problems and the constant fight with mold. This immediately told me that improper remodeling had occurred and we needed to remedy that right away. The Before: Frustrations with a Botched Remodel The bathroom needed to be brought back to period appropriate design with all the functionality of a modern bathroom. We thought of things like marble countertop, white mosaic floor tiles, white subway tile, board and batten molding, and of course a fabulous wallpaper. This small (and only) bathroom on a tight budget required a little bit of design sleuthing to figure out how we could get the proper look and feel. Our goal was to determine where to splurge and where to economize and how to complete the remodel as quickly as possible because C&L would have to move out while construction was going on. The Process: Hard Work to Remedy Design and Function During our initial design study, (which included 2 hours in the owners’ home), we noticed framed images of William Morris Arts and Crafts textile patterns and knew this would be our design inspiration. We presented C&L with three options and they quickly selected the Pimpernel Design Concept. We had originally selected the Black and Olive colors with a black vanity, mirror, and black and white floor tile. C&L liked it but weren’t quite sure about the black, We went back to the drawing board and decided the William & Co Pimpernel Wallpaper in Bayleaf and Manilla color with a softer gray painted vanity and mirror and white floor tile was more to their liking. After the Design Concept was approved, we went to work securing the building permit, procuring all the elements, and scheduling our trusted tradesmen to perform the work. We did uncover some shoddy work by the flippers such as live electrical wires hidden behind the wall, plumbing venting cut-off and buried in the walls (hence the constant dampness), the tub barely balancing on two fence boards across the floor joist, and no insulation on the exterior wall. All of the previous blunders were fixed and the bathroom put back to its previous glory. We could feel the house thanking us for making it pretty again. The After Reveal: Cohesive Design Decisions We selected a simple white subway tile for the tub/shower. This is always classic and in keeping with the style of the house. We selected a pre-fab vanity and mirror, but they look rich with the quartz countertop. There is much more storage in this small vanity than you would think. The Transformation: A Period Perfect Refresh We began the remodel just as the pandemic reared and stay-in-place orders went into effect. As C&L were already moved out and living with relatives, we got the go-ahead from city officials to get the work done (after all, how can you shelter in place without a bathroom?). All our tradesmen were scheduled to work so that only one crew was on the job site at a time. We stayed on the original schedule with only a one week delay. The end result is the sweetest little bathroom I've ever seen (and I can't wait to start work on C&L's kitchen next). Thank you for joining me in this project transformation. I hope this inspired you to think about being creative with your design projects, determining what works best in keeping with the architecture of your space, and carefully assessing how you can have the best life in your home.