After returning from a winter trip to discover his house had been flooded by a burst second-floor pipe, this homeowner was ready to address the renovations and additions that he had been pondering for about a decade. It was important to him to respect the original character of the c. +/- 1910 two-bedroom small home that had been in his family for years, while re-imagining the kitchen and flow. In response, KHS proposed a one-story addition, recalling an enclosed porch, which springs from the front roof line and then wraps the house to the north. An informal front dining space, complete with built-in banquette, occupies the east end of the addition behind large double-hung windows sized to match those on the original house, and a new kitchen occupies the west end of the addition behind smaller casement windows at counter height. New French doors to the rear allow the owner greater access to an outdoor room edged by the house to the east, the existing one-car garage to the south, and a rear rock wall to the west. Much of the lot to the north was left open for the owner’s annual summer volley ball party. The first-floor was then reconfigured, capturing additional interior space from a recessed porch on the rear, to create a rear mudroom entrance hall, full bath, and den, which could someday function as a third bedroom if needed. Upstairs, a rear shed dormer was extended to the north and east so that head room could be increased, rendering more of the owner’s office/second bedroom usable. Windows and doors were relocated as necessary to better serve the new plan and to capture more daylight. Having expanded from its original 1100 square feet to approximately 1700 square feet, it’s still a small, sweet house – only freshly updated, and with a hint of porchiness. Photos by Katie Hutchison

Conquest performed a complete remodel at this property: Brand new wood cabinets. New quartz counter-top. New and modern granite sink, new tiles and back-splash. New stainless-steel high-end appliances. New trendy hardwood floor. Modern and contemporary lighting. Freshened up with new paint in and out. New water lines and drain system. Rehabbed bathroom with new Jacuzzi tub. Brand new electrical facilities (wiring, piping, electrical boxes). New HVAC system.

After returning from a winter trip to discover his house had been flooded by a burst second-floor pipe, this homeowner was ready to address the renovations and additions that he had been pondering for about a decade. It was important to him to respect the original character of the c. +/- 1910 two-bedroom small home that had been in his family for years, while re-imagining the kitchen and flow. In response, KHS proposed a one-story addition, recalling an enclosed porch, which springs from the front roof line and then wraps the house to the north. An informal front dining space, complete with built-in banquette, occupies the east end of the addition behind large double-hung windows sized to match those on the original house, and a new kitchen occupies the west end of the addition behind smaller casement windows at counter height. New French doors to the rear allow the owner greater access to an outdoor room edged by the house to the east, the existing one-car garage to the south, and a rear rock wall to the west. Much of the lot to the north was left open for the owner’s annual summer volley ball party. The first-floor was then reconfigured, capturing additional interior space from a recessed porch on the rear, to create a rear mudroom entrance hall, full bath, and den, which could someday function as a third bedroom if needed. Upstairs, a rear shed dormer was extended to the north and east so that head room could be increased, rendering more of the owner’s office/second bedroom usable. Windows and doors were relocated as necessary to better serve the new plan and to capture more daylight. Having expanded from its original 1100 square feet to approximately 1700 square feet, it’s still a small, sweet house – only freshly updated, and with a hint of porchiness. Photos by Katie Hutchison

This kitchen is hot! The fire engine red KitchenAid range makes a big statement in this row house kitchen renovation for two hard working first responders. Sherwin Williams Pure White #7005 on the back cabinets and Farrow & Ball's Down Pipe #26 on the island provide a clean and soothing backdrop.

Renovating a bathroom is one of the most rewarding home improvement projects you can undertake. It adds immediate value to your property and elevates your daily routine. However, designing the perfect space requires balancing aesthetics with practical utility. At the heart of this balance is the vanity — it is the functional hub where you get ready each morning, a vital storage unit, and the visual centerpiece of the room. To ensure you make the right investment, here is an in-depth look at choosing a bathroom vanity that blends style, longevity, and everyday functionality.
1. Assessing the Layout and Space Constraints
Before you fall in love with a specific design or finish, you must determine what your bathroom can physically handle. Scale is everything. A vanity that is too large disrupts traffic flow, while one that is too small gets lost visually and lacks adequate storage.

• Take Precise Measurements: measure the available width, depth, and height. Remember to account for surrounding fixtures.
• Check Clearance Zones: ensure there is enough clearance for the bathroom door to swing open, for shower glass doors to clear the vanity, and for drawers and cabinet doors to extend fully without hitting the toilet or walls.
• Locate Existing Plumbing: moving pipes can significantly increase renovation costs. If you want a seamless installation, look for a vanity configuration that aligns easily with your current plumbing setup.
  
  

2. Sizing Up Layouts: how to choose a bathroom sink and vanity
The next major step is determining the scale of your plumbing fixtures. Understanding how to choose a bathroom sink and vanity setup comes down to a simple choice: single or double sinks. Your choice will depend on who uses the bathroom and the overall footprint of the space.
Single Sink Vanities
Typically ranging from 20 to 48 inches (50–120 cm) in width, single vanities are the ideal choice for powder rooms, guest bathrooms, or small master suites. For very compact spaces, you can find narrower options starting around 16 inches (40 cm). The major advantage of a single-sink layout is that it provides more usable countertop space for cosmetics, toiletries, and decorative items. If you want to skip the guesswork and invest in a premium, beautifully handcrafted fixture, explore the luxury collections at Willow Bath and Vanity. From elegant single vanities to spacious double setups, their masterfully built furniture combines solid wood construction with elite styling to transform any bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
Double Sink Vanities
Usually starting at 48 inches (120 cm) and extending up to 72 inches (180 cm) or more, double vanities are a lifesaver for shared master bathrooms. They allow two people to get ready simultaneously without fighting for sink space. Keep in mind that a double vanity naturally reduces both cabinet storage space and countertop real estate since a second sink basin and plumbing lines take up substantial interior room.
Sink Types to Consider

• Undermount: installed beneath the counter for a smooth, seamless surface that is incredibly easy to wipe down.
• Vessel: sits atop the counter like a decorative bowl. It makes a bold style statement but raises the overall height of the counter surface.
• Drop-In: features a lip that rests on the counter cutout. It is easier to install, but its edges can catch dirt.
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3. Surface Selection: how to choose a bathroom vanity top
The countertop is the workhorse of the bathroom. It regularly comes into contact with running water, toothpaste, soapy residue, and high-heat styling tools. Knowing how to choose a bathroom vanity top requires evaluating how much maintenance you are willing to perform against the look you want to achieve. Material Pros Cons Maintenance Level Quartz Highly durable, non-porous, stain and scratch-resistant. Offers the look of stone without the hassle. Premium pricing; can show seams on very large custom layouts. Low (No sealing required) Marble Timeless, elegant, and luxurious. Every slab features a completely unique veining pattern. Porous; prone to scratching, etching from acids, and water stains. Requires careful daily use. High (Requires regular sealing) Granite Naturally strong, heat-resistant, and chemically stable. Unique earthy patterns. Porous; can chip if subjected to heavy impacts. Medium (Requires occasional sealing) When coordinating your countertop, ensure it complements your bathroom’s floor tiles, shower surround, and plumbing hardware to maintain visual harmony.
4. Selecting the Core Vanity Style and Finish
Once the functional components are locked in, you can focus on the architectural style of the vanity base. The base dictates the design theme of the entire room.

• Freestanding vanities: sit directly on the floor, supported by legs or a solid kickboard base. This is a traditional, stable configuration that offers the maximum hidden cabinet and drawer storage space.
• Wall-Mounted (Floating) vanities: anchored directly onto the wall studs, leaving the floor underneath completely clear. Floating vanities are staples of modern, minimalist design. They create an illusion of space, making small rooms look larger, and make cleaning the bathroom floor incredibly easy.
• Console vanities: feature an open shelving design supported by a metal or wood frame. It offers a light, airy look reminiscent of a boutique hotel, though it sacrifices hidden storage.

Don’t forget to look at the construction materials. Because bathrooms are high-humidity environments, look for vanities crafted from solid wood or high-grade plywood rather than cheap particleboard, which can swell and warp when exposed to moisture.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect vanity is a step-by-step process that combines precise measurements with your personal design taste. By taking careful measurements, choosing between a single- or double-sink setup, and picking a durable counter material like quartz or granite, you can transform your bathroom into a beautiful, organized retreat. Prioritize high-quality materials and smart craftsmanship, and your new vanity will look spectacular and serve your household reliably for years to come.

Conquest performed a complete remodel at this property: Brand new wood cabinets. New quartz counter-top. New and modern granite sink, new tiles and back-splash. New stainless-steel high-end appliances. New trendy hardwood floor. Modern and contemporary lighting. Freshened up with new paint in and out. New water lines and drain system. Rehabbed bathroom with new Jacuzzi tub. Brand new electrical facilities (wiring, piping, electrical boxes). New HVAC system.

Conquest performed a complete remodel at this property: Brand new wood cabinets. New quartz counter-top. New and modern granite sink, new tiles and back-splash. New stainless-steel high-end appliances. New trendy hardwood floor. Modern and contemporary lighting. Freshened up with new paint in and out. New water lines and drain system. Rehabbed bathroom with new Jacuzzi tub. Brand new electrical facilities (wiring, piping, electrical boxes). New HVAC system.

Coastal exterior home idea in Jacksonville

The view from the unit is spectacular, therefore, the furniture selected for this space was appropriately scaled to fit in the confined space and maintain the awesome view with low back seating. A mid-century modern swivel chair is positioned strategically near the TV and rotates towards the kitchen for easy conversation. The handsome gray arm chair has black metal arms and legs to tie in with the industrial accents in the kitchen. Finally, the French gray TV console adds a touch of elegance and balances the far end of the living space. Additions include: Handsome crown moulding and custom baseboards, Sherwin Williams wall, ceiling and trim paint (the ceiling is NOT white), LED recessed light fixtures, custom island pendants, Quartz countertops, custom dining chandelier, custom shelving over the kitchen sink and custom "iron pipe" designed to house existing telephone wires (building restricted the removal of existing phone line). Photography by Michael Anthony Harrison, www.MikeAntPhotography.com

This 1949 South Minneapolis home had an underutilized, unwelcoming basement with old, dark paneling in the family room, and an unfinished laundry, storage and work shop area. Headroom was at a premium because of low hanging duct work, plumbing and gas lines.Castle Building & Remodeling transformed this basement by creating a much more welcoming, well-lit and functional family room, with an added egress window, built-in storage units and a media area with a flat screen TV. Duct work and piping in the unfinished half of the basement was raised or consolidated to give adequate headroom for a bright and spacious new laundry area. A new 3/4 bath completes the package, along with a built-in linen cabinet in the finished hallway. Storage areas were consolidated in separate areas of the basement with their own access doors. The family now eagerly uses the basement space as a regular part of their home, no longer dreading the trip down to the ‘cellar’.

Sludge in lines of cast iron drain. replaced w abs pipe.
Basement - craftsman basement idea in San Francisco

ANGELICA. Upholstered bed with tufted curved headboard. Fabric or leather cover. Available with slatted bed base, lined orthopaedic panel or storage compartment with slatted bed base. Designed by Debora Berto. Manufactured by INEDITO Milano. Detailed price by request.

AIDA. Makassar ebony or stained wood frame. Polyurethane foam and Dacron headboard cushion padding. Fabric or leather headboard cushion cover. Available with slatted bed base or lined orthopaedic panel. Designed by Alberto Colzani. Manufactured by INEDITO Milano. Detailed price by request.

This Backyard Waterfall project included installation of a pondless waterfall approximately 15' in length on a sloped bank at the area next to the existing pool. The backyard waterfall cascades down the existing embankment. There is still retaining wall work in progress as of this video and pictures being shot. Future landscaping will be installed once surrounding hardscaping has been complete. Rocks and Boulders for this project were chosen and supplied by home owner. This pondless waterfall project was installed in Mohnton (Berks County), PA. Pondless Waterfalls are simply a re-circulating waterfall and/or stream without the presence of a pond. You can enjoy the sight and sound of running water without the maintenance of a pond. The waterfall is undoubtedly the most beautiful and favored feature in a water garden. If space is lacking in your yard or you have safety concerns with a pond, go Pondless! The name basically explains it all. It’s a waterfall and stream, without the pond. So why would you want a waterfall without a pond? The truth is that a Pondless Waterfall isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great alternative for someone who isn’t quite sure if a pond is right for their family. Because there is no pool of water, a Pondless Waterfall is a great option if you are concerned about safety issues associated with a traditional pond. Cost can be a big factor when considering the type of pond you want to build. In most cases, the price of a Pondless waterfall will be less than a pond, because there is less labor involved, as well as less rock and materials. Operating costs are also less. Because you’re not dealing with an established ecosystem, it’s not necessary to run the pump 24/7. The small size of the Pondless Waterfall means you can build and enjoy a beautiful waterfall anywhere in you yard. Taking care of your Pondless Waterfall is easy. Filling the reservoir every few weeks to compensate for water loss because of evaporation is all that’s required. Perhaps the best part of the Pondless Waterfall is the possibility for the future. If you change your mind later, wishing you’d build a pond, that’s ok! If you leave enough room around the base of the waterfall, it’s easy to add a pond onto a Pondless Waterfall. A Pondless Waterfall works much like a regular pond. The hole, deeper than a normal pond, is dug then lined with rock and gravel, and filled with water. The water is then circulated from beneath the rocks and gravel by a pump that sits on the bottom, inside a Snorkel™ Vault and Centipede™ Module. A pipe runs from there up to a BioFalls Filter and into an overflowing waterfall, where it falls back into the reservoir. Since the water level never pools above the level of the rock and gravel fill, it give the appearance of a waterfall without a pond, when in fact, the “pond” is there but not visible. The Pondless Waterfall has made many water-lovers who were previously unable to indulge in the sweet sounds of falling water, very happy. It’s a great alternative for those who are trying to get their feet wet, or looking to fit a little bit of paradise into their own backyard. In other words, when all else fails … go Pondless!

Plumbing Nameeks Scarabeo Teorema 2.0 24" Ceramic Bathroom Sink for Wall Mounted or Vessel Installation - Scarabeo 5114-One Hole Nameeks Remer 2 Wall Mounted Angle Supply with 2 Bendable Copper Connection Pipes - Remer SA100 Nameeks Remer 15" Wall Mounted P-Trap - HT32-16 Nameeks Remer Pop-Up Drain with Click-Clack Feature and Overflow - Remer 905CC2-CR Grohe Essence 1.2 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet with Pop-Up Drain Assembly - 3221600A Jacuzzi Linea 60" x 30" Acrylic Soaking Bathtub for Three Wall Alcove Installation with Right Drain - LNS6030BRXXXXW Jacuzzi Linea Toe Tap Drain Assembly with Overflow - MF35827 Grohe GrohFlex Universal Rough-In Box - 35026000 Grohe Shower Only Trim Package with 1.75 GPM Multi Function Shower Head - GSS-Essence-PB-1-000 Kohler San Souci 1.28 GPF One-Piece Round-Front Toilet with AquaPiston Technology - K-4007-0 Electrical Savoy House Lambert 4 Light 31" Wide Bathroom Vanity Light with Glass Shades - 8-2149-4-11 Ventilation Panasonic 110 CFM 0.3 Sone Ceiling Mounted Exhaust Fan with Motion and Humidity Sensor - FV-0511VQC1 Tile & Stone Nordic Grey Threshold - 4" x 36" Forest Antracita - 8" x 48" H-Line - Cotton - 4" x 16" Schluter Jolly - Aluminum - Chrome - 3/8 in. Interior Door JeldWen - Textured Solid Core Molded Composite MDF Single Prehung Interior Door - 2468 Shower Doors & Glass Block Fleurco Gemini Series Bypass Shower Door 60 x 60 Chrome Hardware & Accessories Kohler Verdera 34" W x 30" H Aluminum Medicine Cabinet with Reversible Hinges - K-99008-NA Grohe Essentials Wall Mounted Euro Toilet Paper Holder - 40689001 Grohe Essentials 24" Towel Rack - Chrome - 40802001 Grohe Essentials 23-2/5" Towel Rack with Integrated Towel Bar - 40800001

In this project, our team renovated an apartment that had previously been converted from a warehouse into a loft. The space is a study in contrasts, blending exposed brick and original rough-sawn columns and beams with warm colors and soft lighting. The bathroom was completely gutted and remodeled, and we removed a closet to create space for a compact laundry unit. We also stained and finished the corner wood column, which had been hidden previously. All new tile and plumbing fixtures were installed, maintaining the old-fashioned, industrial feel of the space. Repurposed materials – such as the table-turned-vanity, and the shelf brackets constructed from pipes and plumbing fittings – capped off the design. In the kitchen, removing an oversized pantry closet created additional counter space and opened up room for the refrigerator as well. Our team installed new countertops and a subtle tiled backsplash too. The finishing touch was new lighting throughout the apartment, including feature lighting in the dining area and entryway. The result is a spacious, welcoming loft, perfect for entertaining and enjoyment. Want a functional space with a cohesive look? Contact Houseplay today! Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

ELEKTRA. Upholstered bed in fabric or leather cover. Available with slatted bed base or lined orthopaedic panel. Designed by Alberto Colzani. Manufactured by INEDITO Milano. Detailed price by request.

This Backyard Waterfall project included installation of a pondless waterfall approximately 15' in length on a sloped bank at the area next to the existing pool. The backyard waterfall cascades down the existing embankment. There is still retaining wall work in progress as of this video and pictures being shot. Future landscaping will be installed once surrounding hardscaping has been complete. Rocks and Boulders for this project were chosen and supplied by home owner. This pondless waterfall project was installed in Mohnton (Berks County), PA. Pondless Waterfalls are simply a re-circulating waterfall and/or stream without the presence of a pond. You can enjoy the sight and sound of running water without the maintenance of a pond. The waterfall is undoubtedly the most beautiful and favored feature in a water garden. If space is lacking in your yard or you have safety concerns with a pond, go Pondless! The name basically explains it all. It’s a waterfall and stream, without the pond. So why would you want a waterfall without a pond? The truth is that a Pondless Waterfall isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great alternative for someone who isn’t quite sure if a pond is right for their family. Because there is no pool of water, a Pondless Waterfall is a great option if you are concerned about safety issues associated with a traditional pond. Cost can be a big factor when considering the type of pond you want to build. In most cases, the price of a Pondless waterfall will be less than a pond, because there is less labor involved, as well as less rock and materials. Operating costs are also less. Because you’re not dealing with an established ecosystem, it’s not necessary to run the pump 24/7. The small size of the Pondless Waterfall means you can build and enjoy a beautiful waterfall anywhere in you yard. Taking care of your Pondless Waterfall is easy. Filling the reservoir every few weeks to compensate for water loss because of evaporation is all that’s required. Perhaps the best part of the Pondless Waterfall is the possibility for the future. If you change your mind later, wishing you’d build a pond, that’s ok! If you leave enough room around the base of the waterfall, it’s easy to add a pond onto a Pondless Waterfall. A Pondless Waterfall works much like a regular pond. The hole, deeper than a normal pond, is dug then lined with rock and gravel, and filled with water. The water is then circulated from beneath the rocks and gravel by a pump that sits on the bottom, inside a Snorkel™ Vault and Centipede™ Module. A pipe runs from there up to a BioFalls Filter and into an overflowing waterfall, where it falls back into the reservoir. Since the water level never pools above the level of the rock and gravel fill, it give the appearance of a waterfall without a pond, when in fact, the “pond” is there but not visible. The Pondless Waterfall has made many water-lovers who were previously unable to indulge in the sweet sounds of falling water, very happy. It’s a great alternative for those who are trying to get their feet wet, or looking to fit a little bit of paradise into their own backyard. In other words, when all else fails … go Pondless!

The motivation for this bathroom remodel came from a broken pipe under the foundation that had to be repaired. The owner decided that having a Carrera marble adorned bathroom would wrap her guests in the ultimate luxury. With a design by Mary Cates, ASID, we took this bathroom down to the studs and started fresh. We enlarged the shower and put in a hand shower so it is now big enough for 2! We put in a stylish freestanding tub in the corner and added another sink to the vanity. We took out extra cabinets that made the space feel cramped and bulky. The bath now is open and bright with the light color of the marble and light wall tones. The clear shower glass wrapped on 2 sides has this shower feeling large and spacious. The Ammara plumbing fixtures from Nob Hill Decorative Hardware create a divine finishing touch. Bath hardware and mirrors from Mary Cates & Co in Dallas make this bath feel one of a kind. Our homeowner says her guests are now fighting over who gets to use this bath while they are staying with her! Layout and Construction by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers | Design by Mary Cates, ASID | Photography by Versatile Imaging