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/

All Weather teamed up with the Property Brothers and Friend’s Alumnus Lisa Kudrow on this week’s episode of HGTV’s hit show Celebrity IOU. In the Lisa Kudrow’s Stunning Condo Surprise episode, Lisa stuns her deserving cousin and best friend Thea, by transforming her condo into a stylish, functional and animal friendly home for the rescued abused animals she cares for.
Lisa not only helped the brothers come up with design ideas, but also picked up a sledgehammer and an electric saw to help them break up a wall. She also helped them kick down a dividing wall and pull tiles off the fireplace. After both of Thea’s parents passed away suddenly, she channeled her grief in meaningful ways, namely by caring for abused shelter pets. Lisa wanted to make sure Thea knew she was loved Renovating her outdated condo was the perfect gift. “Thea has spent the last few years navigating loss,” said Lisa. “She needs a soft place to land.” Lisa added. “She needs a functional space that’s safe and comfortable for the pets she loves.”
Besides modernizing Thea’s outdated condo, the focus was to make everything pet friendly in the remodeled the living room, dining room and outdoor patio. From premium vinyl plank flooring, to performance fabric furniture, to an outdoor dog run and pet potty platform.
All Weather Series 8100 Multi Slide Doors effortlessly connect the indoors to the outdoors allowing Thea’s four legged friends to explore the pet friendly outdoor patio. The magnificent makeover includes a custom built pantry, new modern fireplace, more storage, an open living room floor plan, pet friendly floating shelves and bench seating and slat wall shading. Check out more PROJECT PHOTOS here.
Lisa did join THE PROPERTY BROTHERS to sing her famous song Smelly Cat from the beloved sitcom Friends. ‘I’m just embarrassed I did such a poor job with Smelly Cat,’ Lisa added. ‘I should have just let Drew do it.”
Now in its third season, Celebrity IOU gives celebrities a chance to show their deepest gratitude and to surprise someone who is important in their life by giving their living space a complete transformation, courtesy of the Drew and Jonathan Scott.

The Brooke Residence ‘Addi- tion by Subtraction’ remodeling project was recognized with numerous regional and national awards and was selected for Fine Homebuilding’s Annual Issue on Houses.
This 1920’s Craftsman Bungalow had been poorly modified in the 70’s in an attempt to address poor energy performance with a scabbed on solarium. The design solution removed the solarium and completely reimagined the floor plan: The kitchen was relocated to the rear; the stairway was relocated to enhance function, and a better connection to the family room was created.
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Living Room in The Gathering House | Room Type:
Whole Home (Full Renovation + Furnishings) |
Project Name:
The Gathering House |
Key Feature:
A reimagined open-concept home centered around an oversized kitchen island that functions as the heart of the home, designed to support connection, entertaining, and everyday living.
Challenge:
The existing home had a dated, closed-off layout with poor flow, limited pantry space, and structural constraints that made the kitchen feel cramped and disconnected from the main living areas.
Solution:
The design team reworked the floor plan to open up the main living spaces, expanded the kitchen footprint, and introduced an oversized island to anchor the home. Thoughtful material selections, improved storage solutions, and layered lighting created a cohesive, modern environment that balances functionality with warmth and livability.
Materials:
Iron Adobe, Cactus Doors, Ferguson, My Knobs, Spellman hardware |
Budget:
$100K- $150K |
Timeline:
Approximately 6 months, completed January 2026.

This home enjoys stunning views of Sweeney Lake from almost anywhere in the home; however it was in need of repair and a significant reorganization of the plan to take full advantage of site. The project is about the complete restoration and rethinking of this vintage 1965 mid-century gem. The house is deceivingly large with a full finished lower level and an indoor pool room; however it lived cramped and broken up. The entry was uninviting and small, the poolroom unused and poorly heated, the kitchen undersized, and the bedrooms and baths poorly accessed.
Our task was to open up the home through the rethinking of the floor plan and the introduction of a new central axis connecting and organizing the homes functions and spaces around view corridors and existing or new focal points. The home had beautiful features to build upon; the central brick fireplace, the raised roofs over the living and pool rooms, and the view to the lake itself. A fully redone exterior and interior preserve the homes proportion and scale, while at the same time bring greater connection to the site and a much needed clarity to the homes organization.
Project Team:
Ben Awes AIA, Principal-In-Charge
Bob Ganser AIA
Christian Dean AIA
Nate Dodge

Bedroom in The Gathering House | Room Type:
Whole Home (Full Renovation + Furnishings) |
Project Name:
The Gathering House |
Key Feature:
A reimagined open-concept home centered around an oversized kitchen island that functions as the heart of the home, designed to support connection, entertaining, and everyday living.
Challenge:
The existing home had a dated, closed-off layout with poor flow, limited pantry space, and structural constraints that made the kitchen feel cramped and disconnected from the main living areas.
Solution:
The design team reworked the floor plan to open up the main living spaces, expanded the kitchen footprint, and introduced an oversized island to anchor the home. Thoughtful material selections, improved storage solutions, and layered lighting created a cohesive, modern environment that balances functionality with warmth and livability.
Materials:
Iron Adobe, Cactus Doors, Ferguson, My Knobs, Spellman hardware |
Budget:
$100K- $150K |
Timeline:
Approximately 6 months, completed January 2026.

Kitchen in The Gathering House | Room Type:
Whole Home (Full Renovation + Furnishings) |
Project Name:
The Gathering House |
Key Feature:
A reimagined open-concept home centered around an oversized kitchen island that functions as the heart of the home, designed to support connection, entertaining, and everyday living.
Challenge:
The existing home had a dated, closed-off layout with poor flow, limited pantry space, and structural constraints that made the kitchen feel cramped and disconnected from the main living areas.
Solution:
The design team reworked the floor plan to open up the main living spaces, expanded the kitchen footprint, and introduced an oversized island to anchor the home. Thoughtful material selections, improved storage solutions, and layered lighting created a cohesive, modern environment that balances functionality with warmth and livability.
Materials:
Iron Adobe, Cactus Doors, Ferguson, My Knobs, Spellman hardware |
Budget:
$100K- $150K |
Timeline:
Approximately 6 months, completed January 2026.

Living Room in The Gathering House | Room Type:
Whole Home (Full Renovation + Furnishings) |
Project Name:
The Gathering House |
Key Feature:
A reimagined open-concept home centered around an oversized kitchen island that functions as the heart of the home, designed to support connection, entertaining, and everyday living.
Challenge:
The existing home had a dated, closed-off layout with poor flow, limited pantry space, and structural constraints that made the kitchen feel cramped and disconnected from the main living areas.
Solution:
The design team reworked the floor plan to open up the main living spaces, expanded the kitchen footprint, and introduced an oversized island to anchor the home. Thoughtful material selections, improved storage solutions, and layered lighting created a cohesive, modern environment that balances functionality with warmth and livability.
Materials:
Iron Adobe, Cactus Doors, Ferguson, My Knobs, Spellman hardware |
Budget:
$100K- $150K |
Timeline:
Approximately 6 months, completed January 2026.

Bathroom in The Gathering House | Room Type:
Whole Home (Full Renovation + Furnishings) |
Project Name:
The Gathering House |
Key Feature:
A reimagined open-concept home centered around an oversized kitchen island that functions as the heart of the home, designed to support connection, entertaining, and everyday living.
Challenge:
The existing home had a dated, closed-off layout with poor flow, limited pantry space, and structural constraints that made the kitchen feel cramped and disconnected from the main living areas.
Solution:
The design team reworked the floor plan to open up the main living spaces, expanded the kitchen footprint, and introduced an oversized island to anchor the home. Thoughtful material selections, improved storage solutions, and layered lighting created a cohesive, modern environment that balances functionality with warmth and livability.
Materials:
Iron Adobe, Cactus Doors, Ferguson, My Knobs, Spellman hardware |
Budget:
$100K- $150K |
Timeline:
Approximately 6 months, completed January 2026.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

Challenge:
This prestigious Bridle Path kitchen suffered from poor lighting and functionality issues that prevented it from reaching its full potential. Our clients desired a luxury kitchen that would serve as both a functional workspace and an elegant entertaining hub, requiring us to address the lighting deficiencies while creating a sophisticated aesthetic worthy of this upscale neighborhood.
Solution:
We transformed this space into a luxury kitchen that balances exceptional functionality with breathtaking beauty. The design centers around the stunning Taj Mahal quartzite, whose naturally elegant patterns became the foundation for all other design decisions. By addressing the lighting challenges and incorporating warm finishes throughout, we created a space that feels both inviting and sophisticated.
Highlights:
• Taj Mahal quartzite countertops and backsplash - the jewel of the space with naturally beautiful and elegant patterns
• Custom millwork cabinetry designed for both beauty and optimal functionality
• High-end appliances seamlessly integrated into the sophisticated design
• Warm finishes throughout that complement the quartzite's natural beauty
• Expert craftsmanship by skilled local fabricators ensuring flawless installation
Results:
The transformed kitchen now serves as a stunning centerpiece of this Bridle Path home, where the Taj Mahal quartzite's natural elegance takes center stage. This project demonstrates our ability to solve functional challenges while creating luxury spaces that celebrate exceptional materials, proving that sometimes the most beautiful design solutions let natural beauty shine without unnecessary embellishment.

Award-Winning Exterior Home Remodel
2025 NARI of Greater Phoenix Remodeler of the Year
This project showcases a blend of historic preservation and innovative design, rejuvenating a Spanish Colonial home while addressing aesthetic and functional needs.
The exterior of this historic beauty, long in need of repair, was in poor condition. Stucco cracks, paint deterioration, holes in the garage walls, and a dilapidated patio cover created daunting challenges. We carefully and respectfully addressed these issues, breathing new life into the home while maintaining its original charm.
Modern enhancements were central to the project’s success. We thoughtfully preserved the existing structure and carefully considered the design lines to ensure rhythm and continuity. We masterfully balanced symmetry and asymmetry, particularly in the new back patio design, which extends the living space and adds a visually cohesive element to the rear of the home. The choice of materials and colors highlights the home’s Spanish Colonial character, with a mix of textures and contrasting hues emphasizing key architectural features. Durable porcelain tiles on the patio floor provide function, safety and beauty. The color palette creates clear transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing flow and safety.
This project beautifully illustrates the rejuvenation of a historic Spanish Colonial home, addressing aesthetic and functional needs. We carefully restored the exterior, addressing stucco cracks, paint deterioration, and structural issues. The design preserves the home’s character while creating a modern, functional space. A new patio addition extends the living area, blending indoor and outdoor spaces. The choice of materials and colors enhances the home’s architectural features, and durable porcelain tiles add both beauty and function. By working closely with the Historic Preservation Office, we realized the homeowner’s vision for a beautiful, inviting home and an outdoor entertaining space.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

After the Remodel – Kitchen
The kitchen was completely reimagined into a bright, open, and modern space. The lowered ceiling was removed and new lighting was added, creating a luminous and welcoming atmosphere. Walls were taken down to open the floor plan, and a large peninsula was introduced, adding both functionality and flow to the entire home. White cabinets that reach the ceiling maximize storage, while warm wood shelves bring a cozy touch. The quartz countertops and herringbone backsplash give a timeless elegance, perfectly complemented by modern appliances and a central range hood. Continuous wood flooring ties the kitchen seamlessly with the rest of the house, making it spacious, cohesive, and highly valuable.and no longer functional in design. Dark and unattractive tile choices made the space feel even more closed-in. Poor lighting only added to the problem, leaving the kitchen dim and unwelcoming. The space was divided into two separate sections with closed walls, eliminating the possibility of an open concept and making the area feel much smaller than it really was. The lowered ceiling further reduced the sense of space, wasting the kitchen’s true potential. Overall, it was a poorly lit, outdated kitchen lacking both style and functionality.

After the Remodel – Kitchen
The kitchen was completely reimagined into a bright, open, and modern space. The lowered ceiling was removed and new lighting was added, creating a luminous and welcoming atmosphere. Walls were taken down to open the floor plan, and a large peninsula was introduced, adding both functionality and flow to the entire home. White cabinets that reach the ceiling maximize storage, while warm wood shelves bring a cozy touch. The quartz countertops and herringbone backsplash give a timeless elegance, perfectly complemented by modern appliances and a central range hood. Continuous wood flooring ties the kitchen seamlessly with the rest of the house, making it spacious, cohesive, and highly valuable.and no longer functional in design. Dark and unattractive tile choices made the space feel even more closed-in. Poor lighting only added to the problem, leaving the kitchen dim and unwelcoming. The space was divided into two separate sections with closed walls, eliminating the possibility of an open concept and making the area feel much smaller than it really was. The lowered ceiling further reduced the sense of space, wasting the kitchen’s true potential. Overall, it was a poorly lit, outdated kitchen lacking both style and functionality.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.

What once felt dark, segmented, and inefficient is now a bright, connected, and highly functional first floor designed for real family living.
Our clients, Terry and Lou, came to us with a home that simply wasn’t keeping up with their growing family. The kitchen was cramped, with tight working lanes and limited light. The laundry room doubled as a powder room—yet functioned poorly as both. Sightlines between spaces were cut off, making it difficult to stay connected to their young children throughout the day. Across the board, the home felt dated and disconnected.
Through thoughtful planning and strategic structural changes, we reimagined the entire first floor to better support how this family truly lives.
We began by redefining the entry experience—creating a true foyer complete with a dedicated drop zone and custom cubby storage. This space now acts as a natural landing point, bringing order and intention to everyday comings and goings.
Adjacent to the new entry, we relocated and redesigned the laundry room. Now positioned exactly where it needs to be, it functions as a hardworking utility space with countertops for folding, a utility sink for immediate stain treatment, and the ability to be closed off—keeping daily life contained when needed.
Separating the previous shared function allowed us to carve out a distinct, personality-filled powder room. Wrapped in a bold wave-patterned wallpaper and grounded by a custom reeded oak vanity with warm brass accents, this space delivers a moment of delight and individuality within the home.
The kitchen transformation is where the impact is felt most deeply.
What was once a dark, restrictive layout has been opened into a spacious, highly efficient U-shaped kitchen with generous clearances and an oversized island for gathering. A thoughtful mix of painted cabinetry and rift white oak introduces warmth and balance, while the custom reeded hood becomes a sculptural focal point. Open shelving, integrated pantry storage, and layered lighting ensure the space is as functional as it is beautiful.
Beyond aesthetics, the redesign prioritizes flow—both in movement and in connection. Sightlines between the kitchen, dining, and living areas were intentionally opened, allowing for ease of interaction and visibility throughout the main living spaces.
To unify the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished and extended, creating continuity and a seamless visual experience from one space to the next.
The result is a home that feels lighter, more open, and deeply aligned with how this family lives day to day—designed not just to look beautiful, but to support everything from busy mornings to slow, shared evenings.
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