This whole-home remodel brings modern sophistication to a warm, livable space designed for real life. The kitchen takes center stage with a striking navy island, crisp white perimeter cabinetry, and a custom blue floral tile backsplash that adds personality and charm. Every detail was designed for function and flow — from the built-in wine fridge and hidden trash pull-outs to the thoughtfully integrated pet feeding station. Natural light floods the room through layered window treatments that balance privacy with brightness, while a cozy built-in bench adds both seating and storage. The open-concept layout connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas seamlessly, creating a perfect space for entertaining or family gatherings. The adjacent living room features a beautifully tiled fireplace with a warm wood mantel — a modern focal point that ties the design together. Upstairs, updated finishes continue with fresh flooring and a refined staircase featuring classic black iron spindles and clean white posts — a timeless combination that elevates the home’s entryway. Every element of this renovation was guided by craftsmanship, communication, and a clear vision: to build a space that feels as good as it looks.

This whole-home remodel brings modern sophistication to a warm, livable space designed for real life. The kitchen takes center stage with a striking navy island, crisp white perimeter cabinetry, and a custom blue floral tile backsplash that adds personality and charm. Every detail was designed for function and flow — from the built-in wine fridge and hidden trash pull-outs to the thoughtfully integrated pet feeding station. Natural light floods the room through layered window treatments that balance privacy with brightness, while a cozy built-in bench adds both seating and storage. The open-concept layout connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas seamlessly, creating a perfect space for entertaining or family gatherings. The adjacent living room features a beautifully tiled fireplace with a warm wood mantel — a modern focal point that ties the design together. Upstairs, updated finishes continue with fresh flooring and a refined staircase featuring classic black iron spindles and clean white posts — a timeless combination that elevates the home’s entryway. Every element of this renovation was guided by craftsmanship, communication, and a clear vision: to build a space that feels as good as it looks.

A young Skokie couple needed home remodeling ideas to accommodate their four growing children. A second story addition doubled the space of their ranch-style home, creating four bedrooms upstairs and combining smaller rooms into a spacious living area on the first floor. This custom home renovation features faucets, sinks, and tubs by Kohler® and ceramic tile by Daltile®. The exterior was updated with a rustic stone façade, cherry wood accents, and a copper roof.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River. In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level. To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too. New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

Rachael Ormond
Mid-sized trendy u-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen photo in Chicago with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, green walls and an island

Updated Spec Home: Kitchen & Breakfast Area This week’s post in the series Updated Spec Home will feature the Kitchen & Breakfast Area. This home is truly an open concept where the Kitchen and Breakfast Area share the same space with the Great Room so it was especially important that everything flowed seamlessly. Kitchen The Kitchen is galley-style with very cabinets and a large peninsula. The cabinets had a honey maple stain and the countertops were white solid surface. On the bright side, the appliances were stainless steel. The previous homeowners had added a large hutch to the peninsula which we removed. We wanted the wall to be a feature in the space. Updates included painting the cabinets light gray, replacing the countertops with a “carrara like” quartz, and replacing the cabinet hardware. We also added a stunning backsplash in an ogee design which we ran up the entire peninsula wall. Our contractor Brad Anderson built the floating shelves, and we added color vases to finish off the feature wall. Breakfast Area We took advantage of the Breakfast Area’s vaulted ceiling by adding this gorgeous chandelier in a white finish with seeded glass. A disadvantage of the vaulted ceiling was no wall space on either side of the window. This left us with few options for window treatments. We decide to go with a cornice board in this beautiful vine fabric with a soft shade underneath for privacy. We made a statement on a large wall with a grouping of botanical artwork. For furniture, we mixed the upholstered chairs around the oval table and added a painted etagere to display plates and glasses. We selected two backless stools with cane tops in a gray painted finish for the peninsula. My mom and sister would say the Kitchen is too beautiful to cook in, but I know better…Enjoy!

Today’s traditional kitchens are nothing like the overly embellished ones of the ‘90’s & early 2000’s, replete with intricately carved posts, columns, corbels, overlays and moldings. Today’s classic kitchen is edited down to time honored elements, simpler trims, with some contemporary touches. Recessed panel doors with a beveled inner profile, and slab drawers with a rounded outer trim, line the perimeter. The main body of the island is “L”-shaped, but the overhang is curved, repeating the curved breakfast nook window and paneled banquette. Clean-lined slab doors and drawers allow the island’s shapely form to shine. Two tones again prove popular, with gray paint on the perimeter and rift-cut white oak stained dark brown on the island. Clear glass doors flanking the hood have natural maple interiors to brighten the expanse of cabinetry. In the dining room, the upper glass doors of the hutch cabinets have matching painted interiors for a more formal look. Crown molding is an uncluttered cove, and under cabinet lighting is discreetly hidden in the recessed bottoms. Frosted drum pendants and a linear dining chandelier holding frosted glass “candles” are unapologetically contemporary. Perimeter countertops and backsplashes are subtly veined marble, while the island top is gray quartz. This project was done in collaboration with Kathleen Walsh Interiors. Photography by Rikki Snyder.

The Peony Street kitchen remodel is the perfect blend of trending and timeless. The homeowners wanted a space that felt lively but comforting and fresh but classic. They also wanted a remodel that would rejuvenate the kitchen but still coordinate with the rest of their Corvallis home. The outcome is a light-filled and airy space that’s bright and welcoming. The traditional Shaker cabinets were in great shape, but needed an update. To ensure the look would remain stylish for many years, we chose paint colors that exude timelessness: Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the uppers and Indigo Batik on the lowers and island. Indigo Batik is a rich but subtle medium blue that’s reminiscent of old ticking stripe fabric but still feels very fresh and current. The elegant hardware design from the Top Knobs Regent’s Park Cumberland collection in honey bronze elevates the playfulness of the color palette. Along the countertops, backsplash, and even the window sill is Silestone Pietra. The homeowners wanted a stylish material that’s low maintenance, but meets the elevated design of their new space. The unique blue veining in the countertops and slab backsplash is brought out by the paint color but it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t draw too much attention. The blend of minerals, quartz, and recycled materials make their new countertops stain, heat, and scratch resistant, unlike natural stone surfaces. It’s also finished with a quarter bevel edge, which is a fine angular detail that works with the overall transitional aesthetic of their Corvallis kitchen. Their island also received a few updates that leave the kitchen with a standout focal point. The carved tapered island posts provide support and a style that’s slightly traditional without being overly decorated. We also added panels that continue the transitional Shaker style throughout the space.

Photo by Pedro Marti The client’s hired us to update this small post war apartment which didn’t appear to have ever been renovated since the buildings construction in 1964. The kitchen and bathroom were outdated and were fully gutted. In doing so we decided to open up the apartment in general by removing the wall that separated the kitchen from the living space to create a more open plan. The resulting design is an exercise in ultra-minimalism. The rear wall of the kitchen was outfitted with floor to ceiling cabinetry fit with custom satin lacquer doors and minimal white pulls. The custom paneled refrigerator integrates seamlessly within this wall to create a white backdrop for the kitchen. A peninsula was created opposite to give a work surface and to house the sink and range. Starkly contrasting black metal clad doors were chosen for this run of cabinetry. The unique metal doors have integrated pulls that are cut and folded from the metal cladding. The peninsula is topped in a faux concrete quartz surface. New wide plank walnut flooring was laid throughout the kitchen, living, and bedroom to giving the space a look of continuity. Trim was kept to a minimum, removing from all doors and windows and using only where absolutely necessary at the base of the walls. To achieve the look in the monochromatic bathroom, large format grey porcelain tile was laid in a careful grid; white metal floating shelves and the medicine cabinet were installed to precisely align with both the tile grid and the overhead linear LED fixture.

Home design - coastal home design idea in San Francisco

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River. In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level. To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too. New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

The Peony Street kitchen remodel is the perfect blend of trending and timeless. The homeowners wanted a space that felt lively but comforting and fresh but classic. They also wanted a remodel that would rejuvenate the kitchen but still coordinate with the rest of their Corvallis home. The outcome is a light-filled and airy space that’s bright and welcoming. The traditional Shaker cabinets were in great shape, but needed an update. To ensure the look would remain stylish for many years, we chose paint colors that exude timelessness: Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the uppers and Indigo Batik on the lowers and island. Indigo Batik is a rich but subtle medium blue that’s reminiscent of old ticking stripe fabric but still feels very fresh and current. The elegant hardware design from the Top Knobs Regent’s Park Cumberland collection in honey bronze elevates the playfulness of the color palette. Along the countertops, backsplash, and even the window sill is Silestone Pietra. The homeowners wanted a stylish material that’s low maintenance, but meets the elevated design of their new space. The unique blue veining in the countertops and slab backsplash is brought out by the paint color but it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t draw too much attention. The blend of minerals, quartz, and recycled materials make their new countertops stain, heat, and scratch resistant, unlike natural stone surfaces. It’s also finished with a quarter bevel edge, which is a fine angular detail that works with the overall transitional aesthetic of their Corvallis kitchen. Their island also received a few updates that leave the kitchen with a standout focal point. The carved tapered island posts provide support and a style that’s slightly traditional without being overly decorated. We also added panels that continue the transitional Shaker style throughout the space.

The Peony Street kitchen remodel is the perfect blend of trending and timeless. The homeowners wanted a space that felt lively but comforting and fresh but classic. They also wanted a remodel that would rejuvenate the kitchen but still coordinate with the rest of their Corvallis home. The outcome is a light-filled and airy space that’s bright and welcoming. The traditional Shaker cabinets were in great shape, but needed an update. To ensure the look would remain stylish for many years, we chose paint colors that exude timelessness: Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the uppers and Indigo Batik on the lowers and island. Indigo Batik is a rich but subtle medium blue that’s reminiscent of old ticking stripe fabric but still feels very fresh and current. The elegant hardware design from the Top Knobs Regent’s Park Cumberland collection in honey bronze elevates the playfulness of the color palette. Along the countertops, backsplash, and even the window sill is Silestone Pietra. The homeowners wanted a stylish material that’s low maintenance, but meets the elevated design of their new space. The unique blue veining in the countertops and slab backsplash is brought out by the paint color but it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t draw too much attention. The blend of minerals, quartz, and recycled materials make their new countertops stain, heat, and scratch resistant, unlike natural stone surfaces. It’s also finished with a quarter bevel edge, which is a fine angular detail that works with the overall transitional aesthetic of their Corvallis kitchen. Their island also received a few updates that leave the kitchen with a standout focal point. The carved tapered island posts provide support and a style that’s slightly traditional without being overly decorated. We also added panels that continue the transitional Shaker style throughout the space.

The original kitchen had wood cabinets which made the space seem dark and small, as well as not enough storage. It was in need of an update and brightening up. Working closely with the client we were able to come up with creative storage solutions to take advantage of every nook and cranny to maximize storage and ensure there was space for everything. To highlight the beautiful view form the window, we added glass cabinets on either side, as well as in the hutch cabinet to draw the eye around the room. By using white cabinetry, we were able to make the space seem larger within the same footprint of the kitchen. A custom wood hood adds an additional focal point. The beautiful soapstone countertops tie the whole space together and work with the look of the traditional home. The custom wood posts on the end of the peninsula add extra detail to the cabinetry and an extra detail to the countertop. The addition of wood floors ties the space to the rest of the home.

The Peony Street kitchen remodel is the perfect blend of trending and timeless. The homeowners wanted a space that felt lively but comforting and fresh but classic. They also wanted a remodel that would rejuvenate the kitchen but still coordinate with the rest of their Corvallis home. The outcome is a light-filled and airy space that’s bright and welcoming. The traditional Shaker cabinets were in great shape, but needed an update. To ensure the look would remain stylish for many years, we chose paint colors that exude timelessness: Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the uppers and Indigo Batik on the lowers and island. Indigo Batik is a rich but subtle medium blue that’s reminiscent of old ticking stripe fabric but still feels very fresh and current. The elegant hardware design from the Top Knobs Regent’s Park Cumberland collection in honey bronze elevates the playfulness of the color palette. Along the countertops, backsplash, and even the window sill is Silestone Pietra. The homeowners wanted a stylish material that’s low maintenance, but meets the elevated design of their new space. The unique blue veining in the countertops and slab backsplash is brought out by the paint color but it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t draw too much attention. The blend of minerals, quartz, and recycled materials make their new countertops stain, heat, and scratch resistant, unlike natural stone surfaces. It’s also finished with a quarter bevel edge, which is a fine angular detail that works with the overall transitional aesthetic of their Corvallis kitchen. Their island also received a few updates that leave the kitchen with a standout focal point. The carved tapered island posts provide support and a style that’s slightly traditional without being overly decorated. We also added panels that continue the transitional Shaker style throughout the space.

BEFORE PHOTO The Peony Street kitchen remodel is the perfect blend of trending and timeless. The homeowners wanted a space that felt lively but comforting and fresh but classic. They also wanted a remodel that would rejuvenate the kitchen but still coordinate with the rest of their Corvallis home. The outcome is a light-filled and airy space that’s bright and welcoming. The traditional Shaker cabinets were in great shape, but needed an update. To ensure the look would remain stylish for many years, we chose paint colors that exude timelessness: Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the uppers and Indigo Batik on the lowers and island. Indigo Batik is a rich but subtle medium blue that’s reminiscent of old ticking stripe fabric but still feels very fresh and current. The elegant hardware design from the Top Knobs Regent’s Park Cumberland collection in honey bronze elevates the playfulness of the color palette. Along the countertops, backsplash, and even the window sill is Silestone Pietra. The homeowners wanted a stylish material that’s low maintenance, but meets the elevated design of their new space. The unique blue veining in the countertops and slab backsplash is brought out by the paint color but it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t draw too much attention. The blend of minerals, quartz, and recycled materials make their new countertops stain, heat, and scratch resistant, unlike natural stone surfaces. It’s also finished with a quarter bevel edge, which is a fine angular detail that works with the overall transitional aesthetic of their Corvallis kitchen. Their island also received a few updates that leave the kitchen with a standout focal point. The carved tapered island posts provide support and a style that’s slightly traditional without being overly decorated. We also added panels that continue the transitional Shaker style throughout the space.

BEFORE PHOTO The Peony Street kitchen remodel is the perfect blend of trending and timeless. The homeowners wanted a space that felt lively but comforting and fresh but classic. They also wanted a remodel that would rejuvenate the kitchen but still coordinate with the rest of their Corvallis home. The outcome is a light-filled and airy space that’s bright and welcoming. The traditional Shaker cabinets were in great shape, but needed an update. To ensure the look would remain stylish for many years, we chose paint colors that exude timelessness: Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the uppers and Indigo Batik on the lowers and island. Indigo Batik is a rich but subtle medium blue that’s reminiscent of old ticking stripe fabric but still feels very fresh and current. The elegant hardware design from the Top Knobs Regent’s Park Cumberland collection in honey bronze elevates the playfulness of the color palette. Along the countertops, backsplash, and even the window sill is Silestone Pietra. The homeowners wanted a stylish material that’s low maintenance, but meets the elevated design of their new space. The unique blue veining in the countertops and slab backsplash is brought out by the paint color but it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t draw too much attention. The blend of minerals, quartz, and recycled materials make their new countertops stain, heat, and scratch resistant, unlike natural stone surfaces. It’s also finished with a quarter bevel edge, which is a fine angular detail that works with the overall transitional aesthetic of their Corvallis kitchen. Their island also received a few updates that leave the kitchen with a standout focal point. The carved tapered island posts provide support and a style that’s slightly traditional without being overly decorated. We also added panels that continue the transitional Shaker style throughout the space.

Collaborating with our client’s consulting Feng Shui Master, this home was completely re-imagined, remodeled and enlarged in Manhattan Beach.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary beige one-story stucco flat roof remodel in Los Angeles

This foyer was in desperate need of attention. The honey oak railing, spec carpet, and dated wood balusters had to go. An over the post railing and iron balusters with gold accents are used to update the stairs. Traditional detailing is added in the form of appliques on the stringer. The plain white stair carpet is swapped for wood treads and a rich deep red stair carpet. Taking its cue from the intricate scroll railing, the carpet also incorporates the scroll motif. This asymmetrical scroll delicately undulates down the left side of the staircase infusing an otherwise traditional foyer with a modern twist. Prominently displayed to the left of the staircase is the homeowner’s handmade embroidered artwork with intricate beading. Framing the art piece and displaying it where it is immediately visible upon entry, not only respected the sentimental value this piece carried but also balanced the distribution of color in the space. The grand 3-tiered crystal chandelier illuminates the space and provides a warm glow throughout. Photo by Agnes Jawoszek