Search results for "Poor functionality" in Home Design Ideas

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/

The #LakesideLeisure Project was a comprehensive redesign of a lakefront property that transformed various challenges into stunning solutions. Initially, the property featured a small, high-maintenance cedar deck with minimal lake views, poorly placed stairs, limited flat yard space due to extensive tiered landscaping and excessive plantings, obstructed lake views, and privacy concerns from a neighboring home.
The client’s vision was clear: they wanted a large, flat yard for family activities and hosting, enhanced outdoor living spaces for dining and lounging, increased privacy from neighbors, more shaded hangout areas, improved “curb appeal” from the lake, and reduced maintenance.

These homeowners were ready to completely transform their master bathroom. The existing space felt cramped and outdated, with an impractical linen closet, a small vanity, poor lighting, a bulky tub, and a shower that had seen better days. Their vision was clear—they wanted a warm, inviting, spa-inspired retreat with natural elements, rich textures, and a unique wood feature wall, rather than the all-white look that has become so common.
The finished design brings that vision to life through a beautiful blend of color, texture, and thoughtful details. A stunning cherry vanity and counter stack, topped with luxurious quartzite countertops, create warmth and elegance. The feature wall, finished in 1" x 3" Articulo tile, adds depth and visual interest, while large-format floor tiles provide a clean, modern foundation.
The curbless shower features coordinating hex tile flooring and niches, complemented by porcelain slab walls and glass panels that create an open, airy feel. A spacious freestanding tub offers the perfect place to relax and unwind. To maximize functionality, the doorway was relocated to accommodate a larger vanity, and custom barn and closet doors were added to enhance the room's character.
Programmable lighting tailored to the homeowners' lifestyle, along with a custom wood feature wall designed to showcase decorative plants, transformed a once-empty wall into a stunning focal point. What was once a dreaded space is now a beautiful spa-like retreat and one of the homeowners' favorite rooms in the house.
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Renovation of an existing mews house, transforming it from a poorly planned out and finished property to a highly desirable residence that creates wellbeing for its occupants.
Wellstudio demolished the existing bedrooms on the first floor of the property to create a spacious new open plan kitchen living dining area which enables residents to relax together and connect.
Wellstudio inserted two new windows between the garage and the corridor on the ground floor and increased the glazed area of the garage door, opening up the space to bring in more natural light and thus allowing the garage to be used for a multitude of functions.
Wellstudio replanned the rest of the house to optimise the space, adding two new compact bathrooms and a utility room into the layout.

Emily and Steve have remodeled several pieces of their home and because they love Kaufman’s process so much, they keep coming back. In past years, we’ve remodeled most of their main floor including an updated living space and staircase, and a completely remodeled powder room and kitchen with a nice big island that’s perfect for entertaining. Their most recent project was this year when we remodeled their deck. The major pain points Steve and Emily dealt with before the remodel was lack of functionality due to poor design and because the previous owners had built the deck themselves, there were quite a few safety concerns. Throughout the design process, we decided to remove the existing deck completely and start fresh with a screened in porch, Emily’s Porch, and a deck off the porch with stairs going down to the beautiful backyard – one of the factors that motivated them to make this house their home to begin with.

After moving into a luxurious home in Ashburn, Virginia, the homeowners decided the master bathroom needed to be revamped. The existing whirlpool tub was far too big, the shower too small and the make-up area poorly designed.
From a functional standpoint, they wanted lots of storage, his and her separate vanities with a large make-up area, better lighting, a large steam shower and a vaulted ceiling. Aesthetics were also important, however, and the lady of the house had always dreamed of having a Venetian style spa.
Taking some space from an adjacent closet has allowed for a much larger shower stall with an arched transom window letting plenty of natural light into the space. Using various sizes of tumbled limestone to build its walls, it includes a rain shower head, a hand shower and body sprayers. A seating bench and storage niches make it easier to use.
New plumbing was put in place to add a large vanity with upper glass cabinets for the man of the house, while one corner of the space was used to create a make-up desk complete with a seamless mirror and embedded sconce lights
A free standing Neapolitan-style soaking tub with fluted columns and arched header is the real focal point of this space. Set among large corner windows, under a stylish chandelier, this elegant design sets this bathroom apart from any bathroom in its category.

What was once a dark and dated kitchen with a poor layout was transformed into a bright open kitchen that is much more functional. We opened up some walls and removed another, relocated the door leading to the garage and relocated the sink. We added recessed and under cabinet lighting as well as updating outlets and switched. The new cabinets are Bridgewood Advantage Maple Mission door in painted white. The countertops are black quartz. The backsplash is Carrera marble.

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Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
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This bedroom/office had no shower in a very small bathroom with only a wall sink and small toilet. There was a poorly configured closet adjacent to the left wall which was used for the additional space in this bathroom allowing for a 36 in x 40 in shower stall. New plumbing and electric was added to the space as well..
The floors are 12 x 24 in porcelain marble tiles from The Tile Shop. We cut additional tile to use as the baseboard. The vanity which was purchased, has enough room for additional towels and toiletries and is an attractive and functional addition to the space.

Designing a Health-Focused Home Living Space
Designing a health-focused home living space is more than just arranging furniture and choosing colors; it's about creating an environment that promotes physical well-being, mental clarity, and overall wellness. As we spend more time at home, especially in the wake of recent global shifts towards remote work and lifestyle changes, the importance of our living spaces in supporting our health has never been greater. Here are some key considerations when designing a health-oriented home.
Natural Light and Air Quality
Natural light plays a crucial role in our health, affecting everything from our sleep patterns to our mood. When designing your home, prioritize spaces that allow for ample sunlight. Large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors can help maximize natural light. In rooms where natural light is limited, consider using full-spectrum lighting that mimics daylight to support your circadian rhythms.
Air quality is another critical factor in a health-focused home. Indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air due to various factors like off-gassing from furniture, household cleaners, and poor ventilation. Incorporating plants that are known to purify air, such as spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies, can help improve indoor air quality. Additionally, ensure your home is well-ventilated by using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and consider investing in air purifiers, especially if you live in an area with high pollution levels.
Ergonomic Furniture and Movement Spaces
The furniture you choose and how you arrange it can significantly impact your physical health. Ergonomic furniture, especially in workspaces, can help prevent strain and injury. Adjustable desks, supportive chairs, and monitor stands can contribute to better posture and reduced risk of musculoskeletal issues.
Incorporating spaces that encourage movement is also important. For example, a small home gym or a yoga corner can serve as a dedicated area for physical activity. Even in smaller spaces, you can create movement opportunities by ensuring there’s enough room to stretch or do simple exercises. Open floor plans or multipurpose spaces that can be easily reconfigured for different activities can help integrate movement into daily life.
Mindful and Minimalist Design
A clutter-free environment is conducive to mental clarity and relaxation. Mindful and minimalist design principles focus on creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing without being overwhelming. Start by decluttering and organizing your belongings, keeping only what you need and what brings you joy.
Choose furniture and decor that are simple, natural, and calming. Materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers not only add a touch of nature to your home but also tend to have fewer chemicals than synthetic materials. Neutral color palettes with accents of soothing colors like blues and greens can help create a tranquil atmosphere.
Sleep and Restful Areas
A significant part of health-focused design is creating spaces that promote restful sleep. Your bedroom should be a sanctuary that encourages relaxation. Invest in a good-quality mattress and pillows that support your body. Blackout curtains, soundproofing, and maintaining a cool room temperature can also contribute to better sleep quality.
In addition to the bedroom, consider creating other restful areas in your home where you can unwind, meditate, or practice mindfulness. A cozy reading nook, a meditation space, or even a comfortable chair by a window can serve as your personal retreat.
Incorporating Nature and Green Spaces
Finally, integrating elements of nature into your living space can have a profound impact on your health. Biophilic design, which connects indoor environments with nature, has been shown to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. This can be as simple as adding more houseplants, incorporating natural materials, or even installing a small indoor water feature.
If you have outdoor space, create a garden or a patio where you can relax and enjoy fresh air. Even a small balcony can be transformed into a green oasis with the right plants and seating.
By thoughtfully designing your living space with health in mind, you create an environment that not only looks beautiful but also supports your physical and mental well-being.

When this family came to us, they loved their home — but their bathrooms were failing them. The kids' bathroom had a non-functioning tub, a serious problem with two young children in the house. The primary bathroom was battling an active shower leak, a poor layout, and finishes well past their prime. Both spaces needed to be gutted. We got to work.
The Primary Bath: Elevated, Effortless, Unmistakably Theirs
Our clients arrived with a clear vision and a beautiful, refined sense of style. The layout was reconfigured from the ground up, and at the heart of the room sits a custom double vanity in a soft, sophisticated sage, topped with a stunning marble countertop and coordinating backsplash. Paired with elegant walnut-framed mirrors, a sculptural black and brass sconce, and wall-mounted polished nickel faucets, the vanity wall is a showpiece. Custom woven shades add warmth without sacrificing light.
The walk-in shower delivers — floor-to-ceiling white subway tile, a mosaic marble floor, transom windows, and frameless glass. Schluter DITRA radiant floor heating adds the kind of quiet luxury you feel every morning. Both marble surfaces were professionally sealed with StoneGuard to protect the investment for the long haul.
The Kids' Bath: Cheerful, Timeless, Built to Last
The girls' bathroom is designed with just as much intention as any room in the house. A warm white oak vanity with marble countertop anchors the space, paired with an antique brass-framed mirror and raspberry custom sconce shades that bring personality without being precious. A botanical-print Roman shade layers in pattern and charm.
The fully rebuilt tub-shower features wall-to-wall white subway tile, polished nickel fixtures, and a beautiful geometric floor tile in cream and warm taupe. A glass-front wall cabinet keeps things tidy, and tile wainscoting wraps the room for durability where it counts. Schluter DITRA radiant heat runs underfoot here too — because warm floors aren't just for adults.
Two bathrooms. Completely distinct. Completely intentional. Built for a family that already loved their home — and loves it even more now.

The #LakesideLeisure Project was a comprehensive redesign of a lakefront property that transformed various challenges into stunning solutions. Initially, the property featured a small, high-maintenance cedar deck with minimal lake views, poorly placed stairs, limited flat yard space due to extensive tiered landscaping and excessive plantings, obstructed lake views, and privacy concerns from a neighboring home.
The client’s vision was clear: they wanted a large, flat yard for family activities and hosting, enhanced outdoor living spaces for dining and lounging, increased privacy from neighbors, more shaded hangout areas, improved “curb appeal” from the lake, and reduced maintenance.

Emily and Steve have remodeled several pieces of their home and because they love Kaufman’s process so much, they keep coming back. In past years, we’ve remodeled most of their main floor including an updated living space and staircase, and a completely remodeled powder room and kitchen with a nice big island that’s perfect for entertaining. Their most recent project was this year when we remodeled their deck. The major pain points Steve and Emily dealt with before the remodel was lack of functionality due to poor design and because the previous owners had built the deck themselves, there were quite a few safety concerns. Throughout the design process, we decided to remove the existing deck completely and start fresh with a screened in porch, Emily’s Porch, and a deck off the porch with stairs going down to the beautiful backyard – one of the factors that motivated them to make this house their home to begin with.

The space was unusable for family and entertaining. It was too small, with poor space planning. This complete remodel required structural wall removal, appliance relocate, floor replace and refinish. The peninsula was replaced with island for better traffic flow. The bridge at hood avoided the need for tile to the ceiling. The client was a fireman and the ladder makes him feel right at home!

This kitchen started as a builder basic with no personality or charm. The layout didn't have the best function and the island was poorly placed. The homeowners purchased this house with remodeling and upgrading in mind. The layout was changed to accommodate two people cooking together. Zones were created for meal prepping, cooking and baking. The island was expanded to fill the space and utilize bar seating. The walk through butlers pantry was turned in to a wine bar with a fridge, storage and custom glass cabinets. A medium toned hardwood floor was layed throughout the entire lower level.

Before renovation: compacted soil, exposed tree roots, and poorly defined planting areas contributed to drainage issues and uneven turf conditions. The yard required regrading and underground drainage correction to restore function and structure.

The space was unusable for family and entertaining. It was too small, with poor space planning. This complete remodel required structural wall removal, appliance relocate, floor replace and refinish. The peninsula was replaced with island for better traffic flow. The bridge at hood avoided the need for tile to the ceiling. The client was a fireman and the ladder makes him feel right at home!

When our clients came to us with their renovation project asking for a pink kitchen, we were thrilled at the opportunity to create a unique, bright and colourful kitchen. It’s not something you see everyday, and we live for it! Being that they are a young family, who loves to cook but felt secluded and overwhelmed when in this space, we knew that this was going to be an epic transformation, not just aesthetically but also for their day-to-day life.
This renovation transformed a closed off, cramped, and poorly laid-out kitchen into a colourful, bright, open, and inviting space that combines functionality with vibrant colours and character. The redesign focused on maximizing storage, improving layout efficiency, and infusing the space with unique design elements that make it both practical and fun.

This kitchen started as a builder basic with no personality or charm. The layout didn't have the best function and the island was poorly placed. The homeowners purchased this house with remodeling and upgrading in mind. The layout was changed to accommodate two people cooking together. Zones were created for meal prepping, cooking and baking. The island was expanded to fill the space and utilize bar seating. The walk through butlers pantry was turned in to a wine bar with a fridge, storage and custom glass cabinets. A medium toned hardwood floor was layed throughout the entire lower level

Set in a backyard with a beautiful pool but little shade, this Houston project was designed to solve two key problems. Problem number 1 was sun exposure and the second problem was a poorly laid-out outdoor kitchen. The homeowners reached out to our team looking for a modern, functional solution.
At the heart of this transformation is a 16×32 cantilevered aluminum pergola, one of the longest we can build without front posts. This design creates uninterrupted open space beneath the structure, offering full visibility and maximum flexibility for layout and movement. The pergola features insulated roof panels (IRP) in a striking sandalwood finish that mimics tongue-and-groove wood. The structure’s frame and roof are all aircraft-grade aluminum, making it both stylish and durable—ideal for Houston’s heat and humidity.
Six recessed can lights and dual ceiling fans were installed to ensure the area stays cool and usable day or night. All electrical runs were cleanly concealed within the IRP, keeping the minimalist design intact.
Beneath the pergola, we installed 2×2 pearl white alpine smooth cast pavers in a diamond pattern. These pavers blend seamlessly with the existing turf, bringing brightness and texture to the space while maintaining a soft, luxurious feel underfoot.
The old L-shaped kitchen was removed and replaced with a full-length custom build across the back of the patio. It’s outfitted with everything a backyard chef could want: a built-in grill, burners, sink, Big Green Egg, Traeger smoker, and a slide-out fridge. The kitchen was carefully designed to maximize the available space while meeting city code, with all components permitted and engineered.
To complete the entertainment zone, we built a custom CMU TV wall, finished with Trex paneling for warmth and texture. It includes a wall-mounted flat-screen, Sonos speakers, and a discreetly hidden mini amplifier for seamless AV integration. All wiring is cleanly tucked away, keeping the look sleek and modern.

The client's basement was a poorly-finished strange place; was cluttered and not functional as an entertainment space. We updated to a club-like atmosphere to include a state of the art entertainment area, poker/card table, unique curved bar area, karaoke and dance floor area with a disco ball to provide reflecting fractals above to pull the focus to the center of the area to tell everyone; this is where the action is!
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