Search results for "Pose challenges" in Home Design Ideas

This kitchen was a huge challenge due to the shape of the walls and the shape of the island. The existing layout made it dark, uninviting and had no space for food prep, storage nor seating.
We had to custom build the cabinets to fit the different angles. We used Bellmont ERA Allure maple cabinets with Acrylic doors in gloss pure white. Also the client did not want the downdraft in the island and wanted a Hood over the island. Which posed more challenges. So we solved it by building a floating box over the long island to hide the venting. We added up-lighting to the floating box to add a dramatic effect.
Next we installed a new Cambria Quartz countertop in Seagrove and a Sequoia Polished Linear Mosaic backsplash. We installed the backsplash vertically to give the illusion of a taller space.
The end result was a bright, open and modern kitchen with tons of workspace, storage and seating.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home.
Project challenges:
- Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space.
- The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration.
- The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges.
- Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving.
- The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed.
- Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm.
- Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen.
Project solutions:
- To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function.
- Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout.
- The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature.
- Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly.
- With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space.
- In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

This fun & quirky space was just waiting for a Tweak! The home was built in 1939 so naturally it poses some challenges in regards to laying out furniture. The front door sits smack dab in the middle of the room, dividing the space in two. This family of five needed a larger living room and couldn't figure out how to balance the space. We created lines for the eye to follow that would open this home up and really showcase the amazing African artifacts hidden throughout. The husband is an avid collector of Sub-Saharan art and we used his passion as inspiration for the decor. A historic home and ancient artifacts? We needed to throw in a modern twist to get this home up-to-date. We incorporated pops of color and fun, bold prints to bring out the home's wild side. A houndstooth rug and new display case did just the trick. The wife prefers midcentury modern decor so we incorporated a fun lamp and these awesome lounge chairs from Houzz to incorporate her style into the space.
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A steeply sloping site posed considerable challenges for Morpurgo Architects’ expansion and renovation of this front to back split-level house. To provide a gradual transition for the family from their home, situated on a high plateau, to the brook and pool below, we designed numerous patios and decks at multiple levels.
The house features large, divided-light arched windows. Throughout the first floor, we created lit vaulted ceilings that give the living areas a spacious, open quality. A wide central hallway forms the spine of the house, opening onto a dining room, with columns that support a curved yoke-shaped header that is repeated in the entrance gate on the grounds.
Renovations were scheduled in four precisely planned construction phases that allowed the family to continue living in the house during the building process.
This elegant, yet informal home, in its serene setting, is the product of Morpurgo Architects’ seamless union of the house and the site.

Built in the 1990’s by the homeowner, this kitchen design was rushed to be finished and was never their dream kitchen. Now, with the ability to accomplish their goals, the design team worked closely with the homeowner to create the kitchen they always wanted. The new kitchen was designed to be more conducive to entertaining and more enjoyable while meeting the homeowner’s day to day family needs.
The existing pantry closet sat on an awkward angled wall that it shared with a built-in desk area. By removing that pantry closet wall, the new design allowed for two pantries, buffet space with glass display as well as enough room for a larger island.
With the abundance of cabinetry, we chose to brighten the room with Alabaster perimeter cabinets while contrasting the island with a java stain and vintage glaze. The custom wood hood was an important detail for completing the owners vision. The banquet seat allowed the table to permanently live closer to the wall relaxing traffic flow as well as adding warmth and coziness to the space. Winter Storm granite countertops, beige travertine 3 x 6 backsplash kept the room light. A dark mocha decorative framed accent behind the cooktop and perimeter border adds visual interest and compliments the warms of the island.
The clients had a need for an abundance of storage in their kitchen redesign. By reconfiguring the existing pantry and desk wall, we were able to rework the island size and pantry storage. The new layout also allowed for a small buffet space for ease of entertaining guests in the adjacent dining room.
Working around an existing return vent posed a challenge. Forced to be creative, we added depth to one of the pantry units and enclosed the air return in the lower portion allowing a fully functional upper cabinet.
205 Photography

This fun & quirky space was just waiting for a Tweak! The home was built in 1939 so naturally it poses some challenges in regards to laying out furniture. The front door sits smack dab in the middle of the room, dividing the space in two. This family of five needed a larger living room and couldn't figure out how to balance the space. We created lines for the eye to follow that would open this home up and really showcase the amazing African artifacts hidden throughout. The husband is an avid collector of Sub-Saharan art and we used his passion as inspiration for the decor. A historic home and ancient artifacts? We needed to throw in a modern twist to get this home up-to-date. We incorporated pops of color and fun, bold prints to bring out the home's wild side. A houndstooth rug and new display case did just the trick. The wife prefers midcentury modern decor so we incorporated a fun lamp and these awesome lounge chairs from Houzz to incorporate her style into the space.

This kitchen was a huge challenge due to the shape of the walls and the shape of the island. The existing layout made it dark, uninviting and had no space for food prep, storage nor seating.
We had to custom build the cabinets to fit the different angles. We used Bellmont ERA Allure maple cabinets with Acrylic doors in gloss pure white. Also the client did not want the downdraft in the island and wanted a Hood over the island. Which posed more challenges. So we solved it by building a floating box over the long island to hide the venting. We added up-lighting to the floating box to add a dramatic effect.
Next we installed a new Cambria Quartz countertop in Seagrove and a Sequoia Polished Linear Mosaic backsplash. We installed the backsplash vertically to give the illusion of a taller space.
The end result was a bright, open and modern kitchen with tons of workspace, storage and seating.

This kitchen was a huge challenge due to the shape of the walls and the shape of the island. The existing layout made it dark, uninviting and had no space for food prep, storage nor seating.
We had to custom build the cabinets to fit the different angles. We used Bellmont ERA Allure maple cabinets with Acrylic doors in gloss pure white. Also the client did not want the downdraft in the island and wanted a Hood over the island. Which posed more challenges. So we solved it by building a floating box over the long island to hide the venting. We added up-lighting to the floating box to add a dramatic effect.
Next we installed a new Cambria Quartz countertop in Seagrove and a Sequoia Polished Linear Mosaic backsplash. We installed the backsplash vertically to give the illusion of a taller space.
The end result was a bright, open and modern kitchen with tons of workspace, storage and seating.

This kitchen was a huge challenge due to the shape of the walls and the shape of the island. The existing layout made it dark, uninviting and had no space for food prep, storage nor seating.
We had to custom build the cabinets to fit the different angles. We used Bellmont ERA Allure maple cabinets with Acrylic doors in gloss pure white. Also the client did not want the downdraft in the island and wanted a Hood over the island. Which posed more challenges. So we solved it by building a floating box over the long island to hide the venting. We added up-lighting to the floating box to add a dramatic effect.
Next we installed a new Cambria Quartz countertop in Seagrove and a Sequoia Polished Linear Mosaic backsplash. We installed the backsplash vertically to give the illusion of a taller space.
The end result was a bright, open and modern kitchen with tons of workspace, storage and seating.

A small bungalow in old town Roseville posed some challenges for the homeowner. Their vision was rustic and working with the existing brick on the fireplace that wrapped into the kitchen. If you can't beat it join it... we added brick veneer to the backsplash and island to make it feel as if it was always there. The brick was contrasted with he white cabinets and the smooth concrete look countertops.

For this project, the client wanted that exact design, which posed a challenge to execute as a fully tiled finish. However, it was a success.
Inspiration for a 1960s family room remodel in Minneapolis
Inspiration for a 1960s family room remodel in Minneapolis

Built in the 1990’s by the homeowner, this kitchen design was rushed to be finished and was never their dream kitchen. Now, with the ability to accomplish their goals, the design team worked closely with the homeowner to create the kitchen they always wanted. The new kitchen was designed to be more conducive to entertaining and more enjoyable while meeting the homeowner’s day to day family needs.
The existing pantry closet sat on an awkward angled wall that it shared with a built-in desk area. By removing that pantry closet wall, the new design allowed for two pantries, buffet space with glass display as well as enough room for a larger island.
With the abundance of cabinetry, we chose to brighten the room with Alabaster perimeter cabinets while contrasting the island with a java stain and vintage glaze. The custom wood hood was an important detail for completing the owners vision. The banquet seat allowed the table to permanently live closer to the wall relaxing traffic flow as well as adding warmth and coziness to the space. Winter Storm granite countertops, beige travertine 3 x 6 backsplash kept the room light. A dark mocha decorative framed accent behind the cooktop and perimeter border adds visual interest and compliments the warms of the island.
The clients had a need for an abundance of storage in their kitchen redesign. By reconfiguring the existing pantry and desk wall, we were able to rework the island size and pantry storage. The new layout also allowed for a small buffet space for ease of entertaining guests in the adjacent dining room.
Working around an existing return vent posed a challenge. Forced to be creative, we added depth to one of the pantry units and enclosed the air return in the lower portion allowing a fully functional upper cabinet.
205 Photography

A small bungalow in old town Roseville posed some challenges for the homeowner. Their vision was rustic and working with the existing brick on the fireplace that wrapped into the kitchen. If you can't beat it join it... we added brick veneer to the backsplash and island to make it feel as if it was always there. The brick was contrasted with he white cabinets and the smooth concrete look countertops.

This kitchen was a huge challenge due to the shape of the walls and the shape of the island. The existing layout made it dark, uninviting and had no space for food prep, storage nor seating.
We had to custom build the cabinets to fit the different angles. We used Bellmont ERA Allure maple cabinets with Acrylic doors in gloss pure white. Also the client did not want the downdraft in the island and wanted a Hood over the island. Which posed more challenges. So we solved it by building a floating box over the long island to hide the venting. We added up-lighting to the floating box to add a dramatic effect.
Next we installed a new Cambria Quartz countertop in Seagrove and a Sequoia Polished Linear Mosaic backsplash. We installed the backsplash vertically to give the illusion of a taller space.
The end result was a bright, open and modern kitchen with tons of workspace, storage and seating.

Photos by TCPeterson Photography.
Mid-sized transitional master white tile and ceramic tile bathroom photo in Seattle with an undermount sink, solid surface countertops, medium tone wood cabinets and gray walls
Mid-sized transitional master white tile and ceramic tile bathroom photo in Seattle with an undermount sink, solid surface countertops, medium tone wood cabinets and gray walls

A small bungalow in old town Roseville posed some challenges for the homeowner. Their vision was rustic and working with the existing brick on the fireplace that wrapped into the kitchen. If you can't beat it join it... we added brick veneer to the backsplash and island to make it feel as if it was always there. The brick was contrasted with he white cabinets and the smooth concrete look countertops.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home.
Project challenges:
- Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space.
- The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration.
- The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges.
- Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving.
- The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed.
- Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm.
- Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen.
Project solutions:
- To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function.
- Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout.
- The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature.
- Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly.
- With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space.
- In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

Steeped in history, this Historic Forest Park Carriage House underwent a transformative
renovation to accommodate the evolving needs of its owners. Tasked with creating a vibrant
ground floor space for a bike and training studio, our challenge lay in balancing preservation
requirements with modern functionality.
Preservation guidelines dictated that exterior details remain intact, posing a unique set of
challenges as we sought to rejuvenate the structure. Crumbling stone pilasters and
deteriorating windows and doors demanded meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Structural adjustments were made to support the load of the second-floor apartment, while
new plumbing, electrical, and insulation were seamlessly integrated to enhance comfort and
efficiency.
The interior design embraced an industrial aesthetic, with exposed ceiling frames and polished
concrete floors, lending a sense of character and authenticity to the space. Custom solutions,
such as a tile pedestal for the utility sink and a double wall for bicycle storage, were
implemented to maximize accessibility and durability. Replacement windows and doors,
meticulously crafted to match historic details, preserved the integrity of the structure while
enhancing functionality.
Despite the challenges posed by preservation requirements, the Historic Forest Park Carriage
House stands as a testament to the seamless integration of heritage preservation and modern
design. Through careful planning and execution, we were able to breathe new life into this
historic gem, creating a space that honors its past while embracing the needs of the present.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home.
Project challenges:
- Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space.
- The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration.
- The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges.
- Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving.
- The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed.
- Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm.
- Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen.
Project solutions:
- To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function.
- Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout.
- The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature.
- Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly.
- With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space.
- In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

This room posed some challenges, in that there was no good place to place a TV. The solution was to conceal the TV in a well below the hearth to the right of the TV. When the client wants, the TV magically pops up!
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