This contemporary farmhouse is located on a scenic acreage in Greendale, BC. It features an open floor plan with room for hosting a large crowd, a large kitchen with double wall ovens, tons of counter space, a custom range hood and was designed to maximize natural light. Shed dormers with windows up high flood the living areas with daylight. The stairwells feature more windows to give them an open, airy feel, and custom black iron railings designed and crafted by a talented local blacksmith. The home is very energy efficient, featuring R32 ICF construction throughout, R60 spray foam in the roof, window coatings that minimize solar heat gain, an HRV system to ensure good air quality, and LED lighting throughout. A large covered patio with a wood burning fireplace provides warmth and shelter in the shoulder seasons. Carsten Arnold Photography

We transformed a mid-terrace Victorian bathroom into a luxurious retreat by completely redesigning the floor plan. The highlight is a stunning freestanding boat bath that serves as the centrepiece, complemented by a custom-made vanity for added storage. We mixed marble tiles in brick and herringbone formats for extra interest. This design blends traditional charm with contemporary features.

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

Alyssa Lee
Living room - contemporary living room idea in Minneapolis

Inspiration for a mid-sized scandinavian master white tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile alcove shower remodel in Toronto with flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, an undermount tub, a one-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink, wood countertops, a hinged shower door and gray countertops

Using Vino Pins, the label-forward wine racking peg system, this smart wine cellar design showcases wines in a contemporary fashion that matches the home's decor.

Inspiration for a modern bathroom remodel in Richmond

Large island style one-story stone exterior home photo in San Francisco

Our designer has achieved a stylish look by combining dark cabinets and light-colored marbles.

Tamara Alvarez
This is an example of a small tropical partial sun side yard water fountain landscape in Miami.

The Kelso's Porch is a stunning outdoor space designed for comfort and entertainment. It features a beautiful brick fireplace surround, creating a cozy atmosphere and a focal point for gatherings. Ceiling heaters are installed to ensure warmth during cooler days or evenings, allowing the porch to be enjoyed throughout the year. The porch is covered, providing protection from the elements and allowing for outdoor enjoyment even during inclement weather. An outdoor covered living space offers additional seating and lounging areas, perfect for relaxing or hosting guests. The porch is equipped with outdoor kitchen appliances, allowing for convenient outdoor cooking and entertaining. A round chandelier adds a touch of elegance and provides ambient lighting. Skylights bring in natural light and create an airy and bright atmosphere. The porch is furnished with comfortable wicker furniture, providing a cozy and stylish seating arrangement. The Kelso's Porch is a perfect retreat for enjoying the outdoors in comfort and style, whether it's for relaxing by the fireplace, cooking and dining al fresco, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends.

This contemporary farmhouse is located on a scenic acreage in Greendale, BC. It features an open floor plan with room for hosting a large crowd, a large kitchen with double wall ovens, tons of counter space, a custom range hood and was designed to maximize natural light. Shed dormers with windows up high flood the living areas with daylight. The stairwells feature more windows to give them an open, airy feel, and custom black iron railings designed and crafted by a talented local blacksmith. The home is very energy efficient, featuring R32 ICF construction throughout, R60 spray foam in the roof, window coatings that minimize solar heat gain, an HRV system to ensure good air quality, and LED lighting throughout. A large covered patio with a wood burning fireplace provides warmth and shelter in the shoulder seasons. Carsten Arnold Photography

Example of a transitional white tile and subway tile alcove bathtub design in New York with a wall-mount sink

A bespoke residence, designed to suit its owner in every way. The result of a collaborative vision comprising the collective passion, taste, energy, and experience of our client, the architect, the builder, the utilities contractors, and ourselves, this home was planned to combine the best elements in the best ways, to complement a thoughtful, healthy, and green lifestyle not simply for today, but for years to come. Photo Credit: Jay Graham, Graham Photography

This Master Bathroom was dated, dark, and in dire need of an overhaul. Our clients were inspired by a vacation home and wanted black and white basket-weave tile and tiled wainscoting. We used traditional plumbing fixtures, cabinets, and finishes that would complement the tile. We modernized the shower with dual shower heads, DTV, and teak seat. Detailed tile plans were executed to ensure the tile was impeccably installed throughout. This bath was further enhanced with added lighting and radiant heat flooring. This renovation came together beautifully and our clients are thrilled with their classically elegant new master bathroom. Design by: Hatfield Builders | Photography by: Travis G Lilley

Example of a large minimalist open concept medium tone wood floor and brown floor family room design in Phoenix with gray walls, a ribbon fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Kitchen - country l-shaped light wood floor and beige floor kitchen idea in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   We went with a minimalist, clean, industrial look that feels light, bright and airy. The island is a dark charcoal with cool undertones that coordinates with the cabinetry and transom work in both the neighboring mudroom and breakfast area. White subway tile, quartz countertops, white enamel pendants and gold fixtures complete the update. The ends of the island are shiplap material that is also used on the fireplace in the next room. In the new mudroom, we used a fun porcelain tile on the floor to get a pop of pattern, and walnut accents add some warmth. Each child has their own cubby, and there is a spot for shoes below a long bench. Open shelving with spots for baskets provides additional storage for the room. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKBD Photography by: LOMA Studios For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Kyle Caldwell
Kitchen - coastal light wood floor kitchen idea in Providence with an undermount sink, open cabinets, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash and an island