Jill Hughes
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional master multicolored tile and mosaic tile ceramic tile and gray floor tub/shower combo remodel in Baltimore with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, a one-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink and granite countertops

This Master Suite while being spacious, was poorly planned in the beginning. Master Bathroom and Walk-in Closet were small relative to the Bedroom size. Bathroom, being a maze of turns, offered a poor traffic flow. It only had basic fixtures and was never decorated to look like a living space. Geometry of the Bedroom (long and stretched) allowed to use some of its' space to build two Walk-in Closets while the original walk-in closet space was added to adjacent Bathroom. New Master Bathroom layout has changed dramatically (walls, door, and fixtures moved). The new space was carefully planned for two people using it at once with no sacrifice to the comfort. New shower is huge. It stretches wall-to-wall and has a full length bench with granite top. Frame-less glass enclosure partially sits on the tub platform (it is a drop-in tub). Tiles on the walls and on the floor are of the same collection. Elegant, time-less, neutral - something you would enjoy for years. This selection leaves no boundaries on the decor. Beautiful open shelf vanity cabinet was actually made by the Home Owners! They both were actively involved into the process of creating their new oasis. New Master Suite has two separate Walk-in Closets. Linen closet which used to be a part of the Bathroom, is now accessible from the hallway. Master Bedroom, still big, looks stunning. It reflects taste and life style of the Home Owners and blends in with the overall style of the House. Some of the furniture in the Bedroom was also made by the Home Owners.

Gourmet chef's kitchen with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances
Inspiration for a timeless single-wall eat-in kitchen remodel in New York with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, green backsplash, ceramic backsplash and stainless steel appliances

This charming historic home on Missionary Ridge in Chattanooga, TN was quite neglected and very out of date. The last renovation had taken place in the late 1970s with the installation of large ceiling fans, tan flat wall color and the original plaster walls were in poor condition. The lighting has been replaced with a period piece black & gold chandelier with crystal droplets. All of the walls and the ceiling have been carefully restored and painted in a trending Benjamin Moore Simply White (satin finish) and for a simple and clean look with just a splash of color, a custom painting & small round antique table finished in hot pink (high gloss) and a silk pink orchid add just the right touch! Design by Dawn D Totty Designs

This charming historic home on Missionary Ridge in Chattanooga, TN was quite neglected and very out of date. The last renovation had taken place in the late 1970s with the installation of large ceiling fans, tan flat wall color and the original plaster walls were in poor condition. The lighting has been replaced with a period piece black & gold chandelier with crystal droplets. All of the walls and the ceiling have been carefully restored and painted in a trending Benjamin Moore Simply White (satin finish) and for a simple and clean look with just a splash of color, a custom painted small round antique table finished in hot pink (high gloss) and a silk pink orchid add just the right touch! Design by Dawn D Totty Designs

Shaker style white cabinets, recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, pendant ,lighting wall ovens, island, granite countertops, island plugs, two tone island & perimeter cabinets, tile backsplash, island cook-top, under-mount sink, pull down faucet, wine & beverage refrigerator & built-in microwave oven.

This home addition was intended to expand the home to provide the space needed for the growing new family. The existing kitchen was gutted, expanded and opened up to a family room and nook area. Custom inset cabinets were our preference; however cost was a significant concern. The owner researched multiple companies and standard product lines to save on her budget. After careful analysis, we discovered that it was just as cost effective to use the local custom cabinet maker we preferred. This allowed for more precise detailing and unique features. The goal of a classical farm house kitchen character updated with modern features was able to be obtained much to the home owner's delight. A family room was added to this home, opening up to a screen porch that takes advantage of a previously unused side yard. The much needed new rear entry provides the family a space for their laundry room and is now the primary entry point from the detached garage. Great care was taken to ensure that the home’s new detailing could have been built this way originally. The space however needed to have a modern function for a modern family. The homes existing exterior had aluminum siding and trim which concealed original millwork and shingles. When the nondescript materials were removed, it was discovered that the original was in poor condition. Careful attention was taken to replace and/or repair original materials wherever possible around the entire home, in order to create a seamless exterior character.

The major kitchen renovation of this old country farmhouse was a task of love, one that had been planned for many years by these Barrington seasoned homeowners. After interviewing no less than five companies, the homeowners chose the design team at Advance Design Studio to make the transformation they had long planned for. “They had an understanding of the right design for the space almost from the instant they walked in the room”, says Sharon Scott of the design team of Nicole Ryan at Todd Jurs at Advance Design Studio. “They were the only designers who laid out ideas in the first meeting at the house that we really loved”, she says. “It was obvious that they understood the house, and understood us - and from then on the decision to hire them literally made itself”. The original kitchen had a dividing “wall” of cabinetry…that made the rather large space seem very small, and cut off the kitchen from the eating area that has a beautiful garden view completely hidden from the main kitchen. Circulation was poor, leaving family members on top of one another when entertaining family and friends. The new kitchen design nearly doubles the kitchen size within the original space; opening it up completely and enjoying an expansive island containing a new Kohler Whitehaven Smart Divide farm sink, a dishwasher, and pull out double trash receptacle. The great new gathering space accommodates four pull out stools beckoning grandchildren and friends alike. Removing the range from the island and relocating it to create a dramatic “feature” wall, completely out of the way of guests; it is now crowned with a beautiful completely customized wood hood designed to ventilate much more efficiently than the original island range containing a limited downdraft system. The much more efficient use of the space after removing a pantry closet made way for a fully functional “tall wall” housing a double oven and refrigerator, out of the way of guests. Removing the restrictive cabinetry wall now allowed for an expansive floor to ceiling pantry cabinet with full extension pull out shelving, and an elegant display area complete with a beautiful furniture detailed buffet. Fitting perfectly into the farmhouse charm of the old estate, Medallion Silver Lancaster cabinetry was chosen in a soft white Maple Divinity paint finish lining the perimeter. The stunning island hints to this old home’s past with Medallion Gold’s Maple Devonshire style graced with a Carriage Black Heirloom painted finish. The rubbed off black paint finish reveals the soft wood tones beneath, mimicking furniture you’d see in your grandmother’s home that has lovingly been polished for years to reveal a soft, subtly rubbed-off sheen. Counter tops reverse contrast with perimeter tops of black “Raven” granite possessing a subtle honed finish, and a shift to Quartz Difinity Viareggio - resembling white Carrera marble on the island. A simple herringbone detail completes the decorative range wall, and subtle porcelain subway tiles grace the backsplash throughout. The design is finished off with crisp Thermador and Bosch stainless steel appliances, and bright brushed cup pull and handle combination hardware. A pull down Kohler Bellaria faucet makes cleanup a breeze, and soft under-cabinet LED lighting throughout makes every work surface shine softly, and highlights the cabinetry display area with grace. One special detail was created to make the dramatic ceiling transition to a vaulted area above the breakfast nook extra special. A tongue and groove solid wood ceiling was hung above, and a subtle greenish-grey distressed paint finish was hand developed on site by the talented crew, complementing the new kitchen with a completely unique surface that appears as if it’s been there for many, many years. It’s just one standout feature in the amazing new space that is sure to be in every conversation as newcomers enjoy the newest best hangout in this old home renewed! After 30 years of renovating homes, this now content homeowner sips a cup of tea enjoying her new garden view, and reminisces projects of past – and lastly reports their experience with Advance Design Studio culminating with their amazing new kitchen to be the most enjoyable and satisfying home experience yet. Designer: Nicole Ryan Photographer: Joe Nowak

This home addition was intended to expand the home to provide the space needed for the growing new family. The existing kitchen was gutted, expanded and opened up to a family room and nook area. Custom inset cabinets were our preference; however cost was a significant concern. The owner researched multiple companies and standard product lines to save on her budget. After careful analysis, we discovered that it was just as cost effective to use the local custom cabinet maker we preferred. This allowed for more precise detailing and unique features. The goal of a classical farm house kitchen character updated with modern features was able to be obtained much to the home owner's delight. A family room was added to this home, opening up to a screen porch that takes advantage of a previously unused side yard. The much needed new rear entry provides the family a space for their laundry room and is now the primary entry point from the detached garage. Great care was taken to ensure that the home’s new detailing could have been built this way originally. The space however needed to have a modern function for a modern family. The homes existing exterior had aluminum siding and trim which concealed original millwork and shingles. When the nondescript materials were removed, it was discovered that the original was in poor condition. Careful attention was taken to replace and/or repair original materials wherever possible around the entire home, in order to create a seamless exterior character.

Dave Mason-ISPhotographic
Inspiration for a large timeless u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, travertine backsplash, black appliances, an island and black countertops

This beautiful 1881 Alameda Victorian cottage, wonderfully embodying the Transitional Gothic-Eastlake era, had most of its original features intact. Our clients, one of whom is a painter, wanted to preserve the beauty of the historic home while modernizing its flow and function. From several small rooms, we created a bright, open artist’s studio. We dug out the basement for a large workshop, extending a new run of stair in keeping with the existing original staircase. While keeping the bones of the house intact, we combined small spaces into large rooms, closed off doorways that were in awkward places, removed unused chimneys, changed the circulation through the house for ease and good sightlines, and made new high doorways that work gracefully with the eleven foot high ceilings. We removed inconsistent picture railings to give wall space for the clients’ art collection and to enhance the height of the rooms. From a poorly laid out kitchen and adjunct utility rooms, we made a large kitchen and family room with nine-foot-high glass doors to a new large deck. A tall wood screen at one end of the deck, fire pit, and seating give the sense of an outdoor room, overlooking the owners’ intensively planted garden. A previous mismatched addition at the side of the house was removed and a cozy outdoor living space made where morning light is received. The original house was segmented into small spaces; the new open design lends itself to the clients’ lifestyle of entertaining groups of people, working from home, and enjoying indoor-outdoor living. Photography by Kurt Manley. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/artists-victorian/

Our client wanted an open space between the Living and Kitchen, and did not like the cramped pantry tucked in the corner. To redesign the space, we started by removing the “Edmond Swing” angled bar top seating. Next, we opened the space by removing the majority of the wall between the kitchen and living room. In order to improve the flow in and out of the kitchen, we created a new pantry in some poorly used space in the laundry room, allowing us to remove the old large and blocky pantry and create a doorway to the exit. Closing up the other doorway allowed us to add separate, full-size refrigerator and freezer for improved access to stored food items. All new lighting, including in-cabinet, under-cabinet, under island, pendant, sconces, and ceiling lighting were placed according to plan. After we installed our custom Walnut cabinetry and Cambria and Cristallo tops, we completed the project by refinishing the wood floors to a fresher tone. As is often the case, our client also asked us to remodel the front and rear Powder Baths, the Wine Room, and Dining Room. We are in love with the new space!

Our client wanted an open space between the Living and Kitchen, and did not like the cramped pantry tucked in the corner. To redesign the space, we started by removing the “Edmond Swing” angled bar top seating. Next, we opened the space by removing the majority of the wall between the kitchen and living room. In order to improve the flow in and out of the kitchen, we created a new pantry in some poorly used space in the laundry room, allowing us to remove the old large and blocky pantry and create a doorway to the exit. Closing up the other doorway allowed us to add separate, full-size refrigerator and freezer for improved access to stored food items. All new lighting, including in-cabinet, under-cabinet, under island, pendant, sconces, and ceiling lighting were placed according to plan. After we installed our custom Walnut cabinetry and Cambria and Cristallo tops, we completed the project by refinishing the wood floors to a fresher tone. As is often the case, our client also asked us to remodel the front and rear Powder Baths, the Wine Room, and Dining Room. We are in love with the new space!

Our client wanted an open space between the Living and Kitchen, and did not like the cramped pantry tucked in the corner. To redesign the space, we started by removing the “Edmond Swing” angled bar top seating. Next, we opened the space by removing the majority of the wall between the kitchen and living room. In order to improve the flow in and out of the kitchen, we created a new pantry in some poorly used space in the laundry room, allowing us to remove the old large and blocky pantry and create a doorway to the exit. Closing up the other doorway allowed us to add separate, full-size refrigerator and freezer for improved access to stored food items. All new lighting, including in-cabinet, under-cabinet, under island, pendant, sconces, and ceiling lighting were placed according to plan. After we installed our custom Walnut cabinetry and Cambria and Cristallo tops, we completed the project by refinishing the wood floors to a fresher tone. As is often the case, our client also asked us to remodel the front and rear Powder Baths, the Wine Room, and Dining Room. We are in love with the new space!

The goal for this Kitchen Remodel project was to update, and create a comfortable, efficient, low-maintenance Kitchen. The homeowners were plagued with failing appliances and poor storage. Multiple trips to the cramped walk-in pantry were just not cutting it any longer. The homeowners were looking for a more ergonomic and spacious feeling for their Kitchen, with a fresh aesthetic. The awkward shape and placement of the island with the raised bar top was uncomfortable and created congestion points on two sides. McCabe by Design made recommendations and collaborated with the homeowners for selections that align with the client’s preferences, lifestyle and budget. SHOWN IN IMAGE: Dura Supreme Cabinetry in Style Covington painted Linen White, and on the Island, style Carson painted SW Evergreen Fog | Top Knobs Torbay Pull in Honey Bronze | Cambria Countertop on Island in Brittania Gold Warm, Cambria MonTaaj perimeter countertop | Moen Arbor Motion Sense Wave One-Handle High Arc Pulldown Kitchen Faucet in Spot Resist Stainless Ruvati Workstation 60/40 Sink | Thermador Appliances | Hubbardton Forge Henry Chamfer Pendant in Black & Soft Gold | Lunada Bay Mosaic Glass Tile in Agate Taiko in Cortona on Backsplash | SW Alabaster Wall & Ceiling Paint Color

Our client wanted an open space between the Living and Kitchen, and did not like the cramped pantry tucked in the corner. To redesign the space, we started by removing the “Edmond Swing” angled bar top seating. Next, we opened the space by removing the majority of the wall between the kitchen and living room. In order to improve the flow in and out of the kitchen, we created a new pantry in some poorly used space in the laundry room, allowing us to remove the old large and blocky pantry and create a doorway to the exit. Closing up the other doorway allowed us to add separate, full-size refrigerator and freezer for improved access to stored food items. All new lighting, including in-cabinet, under-cabinet, under island, pendant, sconces, and ceiling lighting were placed according to plan. After we installed our custom Walnut cabinetry and Cambria and Cristallo tops, we completed the project by refinishing the wood floors to a fresher tone. As is often the case, our client also asked us to remodel the front and rear Powder Baths, the Wine Room, and Dining Room. We are in love with the new space!

Our client wanted an open space between the Living and Kitchen, and did not like the cramped pantry tucked in the corner. To redesign the space, we started by removing the “Edmond Swing” angled bar top seating. Next, we opened the space by removing the majority of the wall between the kitchen and living room. In order to improve the flow in and out of the kitchen, we created a new pantry in some poorly used space in the laundry room, allowing us to remove the old large and blocky pantry and create a doorway to the exit. Closing up the other doorway allowed us to add separate, full-size refrigerator and freezer for improved access to stored food items. All new lighting, including in-cabinet, under-cabinet, under island, pendant, sconces, and ceiling lighting were placed according to plan. After we installed our custom Walnut cabinetry and Cambria and Cristallo tops, we completed the project by refinishing the wood floors to a fresher tone. As is often the case, our client also asked us to remodel the front and rear Powder Baths, the Wine Room, and Dining Room. We are in love with the new space!

Our client wanted an open space between the Living and Kitchen, and did not like the cramped pantry tucked in the corner. To redesign the space, we started by removing the “Edmond Swing” angled bar top seating. Next, we opened the space by removing the majority of the wall between the kitchen and living room. In order to improve the flow in and out of the kitchen, we created a new pantry in some poorly used space in the laundry room, allowing us to remove the old large and blocky pantry and create a doorway to the exit. Closing up the other doorway allowed us to add separate, full-size refrigerator and freezer for improved access to stored food items. All new lighting, including in-cabinet, under-cabinet, under island, pendant, sconces, and ceiling lighting were placed according to plan. After we installed our custom Walnut cabinetry and Cambria and Cristallo tops, we completed the project by refinishing the wood floors to a fresher tone. As is often the case, our client also asked us to remodel the front and rear Powder Baths, the Wine Room, and Dining Room. We are in love with the new space!

Pontcanna is a popular residential area in the western district of Cardiff, in South East Wales. Known for its rather large houses and spectacular foliage, interestingly enough roughly a quarter of the population are English folk. I was called down to a property in the area to take a look at a Victorian tiled floor which was in quite poor condition. Along with the typical amount of dirt and muck seen on poorly maintained tiles, there were a number of missing tiles and a fair bit of cement caked on the surface of the floor. It would require a robust clean, fresh seal, and several repairs to get this floor back into optimum condition. To begin, I checked for excess moisture problems using a damp meter in various places of the hallway floor and, thankfully, it was showing dry results. Any dampness could have potentially caused problems later on in the restoration process, so it was s good idea to run tests before starting. Next, I manually scraped as much of the dry paint and cement off the tiles as possible, with no lubrication necessary. I then proceeded to clean the floor with a solution I mixed early, consisting of equal parts Tile Doctor NanoTech HBU and Tile Doctor Pro Clean, rinsing as I went. Both products are designed to tackle heavy soil build-up, with the former uniquely using nano-sized particles (as the product name suggests) to penetrate deep into difficult to reach areas in the tiles in order to lift out ingrained muck. Following the initial clean, I removed all of the loose tiles and those heavily affected by cement, before retiling as necessary with fresh Victorian tiles, and grouting the whole floor. Of course, these replacement tiles were carefully sourced to ensure consistency, as far as possible, with the original pattern of the floor. The next day, I went over the whole floor with an application of the acid-based Tile Doctor Grout Clean Up, diluted with a little alkaline Pro Clean to form a cleaning solution. I then used a black pad to scrub the cleaner into the tiles, similarly to the previous day’s cleaning. This was followed by a through rinse with water to neutralise the floor. It was at this point that I noticed some stubborn cement stains remained so I set about breaking them down using a 60 grade hand held diamond polishing block, and this technique proved successful. After completing the clean, I left the floor to dry out for roughly 24 hours. Upon my return to the property to seal the tiles, I tested again for moisture. It is recommended to run damp tests before sealing, as excess moisture can cloud the sealer, affecting its performance in the long run. Fortunately, no dampness was detected and I was proceeded to seal the floor with seven coats of Tile Doctor Seal & Go, which enhances the natural colours in the stone and provides a nice satin gloss appearance, as requested by the customer. I was extremely pleased with the results of this restoration, as was the customer. The extent of the soil build up and damage was such before the restoration that, after completion, the floor looked like it had been newly laid! Julian Iancono South East Wales Tile Doctor