Some long-time repeat Drury customers were ready to update their wine cellar and bar area. The right design would make the space more functional and relaxing while increasing viewable wine storage capacity. The homeowners appreciate craftsmanship and dedication – it’s the difference between good and truly great whiskies and wines. A relaxing space to appreciate such mastery would need to reflect the same kind of care and attention to detail. Design Objectives: -Remove heavy posts and archway to open the bar to the basement entertainment area -Add an undercounter ice maker -Create a clean, open display for liquor and glassware -Create a cabinet-matching rolling cart for transporting cases of wine from the area’s entryway to the wine cellar -Add drama and improve lighting -Expand the wine cellar and add ceiling-mounted cooling -Add a concealed area in the wine cellar for wine case storage -Update task and decorative lighting Design Challenges: -Complement the existing stained-cherry trim in the basement area -Determine how to include a separate area for case storage accessible from the main wine cellar -Create an updated look that integrates seamlessly with the upscale traditional Tudor home -The curved staircase called for creativity in the floor tile layout Design Solutions: -For cabinetry, a rich smoky blue-grey paint was chosen to complement the cherry stain -Gorgeous leather-finished Tiempo Cielo quartzite countertops pair beautifully with the flooring -Elegant textured-glass tile creates an interesting backdrop to open shelving -High Gloss veneer shelving elevates the space and feels more modern than the previous cabinetry -Realistic wood-look porcelain tile in a light greige tone creates a durable surface for this high traffic area -A custom rolling cart was included to move cases into the wine cellar with ease -Fresh decorative lighting in the bar and wine cellar adds drama while updating the overlook look and feel Removing the heavy posts and archway between the bar and the rest of the entertainment area made the entire space feel more welcoming and inviting. The steel blue finish on the cabinetry blends beautifully with the existing woodwork, giving the basement a fresh look. The homeowners are more than pleased with how their renewed bar and wine cellar elevates the experience of celebrating fine spirits and enjoying them with friends.

We’ve given the Palisades Apartment Complex brand new common areas for its residents and staff to enjoy. After a total remodel, the party room and office area have been redesigned (these two spaces were flipped, as we described in an earlier post) and the pool area, bathrooms and exercise room also have a new, upscale look. In the party room, the new carpet with its fun, bold pattern, (also featured in an earlier post) furniture, wallcoverings and fabrics all contribute to a contemporary, fun space. Special attention was placed on the bar area, which makes a statement with its unique textured metal panels – a feature we shared on our facebook page while the design was in progress. That statement is echoed by the etched metal pieces behind the bar. The new seating area makes an inviting place to linger. All the party room furniture, including barstools and tables, is easy to move, making the space versatile. The fireplace adds warmth and ambiance. It’s conveniently built-in, along with the flat-screen TV above it. Wallcoverings contribute to the comfortable feel in the room, as well as adding protection for the walls. Contemporary and fun artwork in the pool area coordinates with the other updates in the complex, as does the design of the office reception area. We’ve given the Palisades Apartment Complex brand new common areas for its residents and staff to enjoy. After a total remodel, the party room and office area have been redesigned (these two spaces were flipped, as we described in an earlier post) and the pool area, bathrooms and exercise room also have a new, upscale look. In the party room, the new carpet with its fun, bold pattern, (also featured in an earlier post) furniture, wallcoverings and fabrics all contribute to a contemporary, fun space. Special attention was placed on the bar area, which makes a statement with its unique textured metal panels – a feature we shared on our facebook page while the design was in progress. That statement is echoed by the etched metal pieces behind the bar. The new seating area makes an inviting place to linger. All the party room furniture, including barstools and tables, is easy to move, making the space versatile. The fireplace adds warmth and ambiance. It’s conveniently built-in, along with the flat-screen TV above it. Wallcoverings contribute to the comfortable feel in the room, as well as adding protection for the walls. Contemporary and fun artwork in the pool area coordinates with the other updates in the complex, as does the design of the office reception area.

Everywhere you look in this home, there is a surprise to be had and a detail worth preserving. One of the more iconic interior features was this original copper fireplace shroud that was beautifully restored back to it's shiny glory. The sofa was custom made to fit "just so" into the drop down space/ bench wall separating the family room from the dining space. Not wanting to distract from the design of the space by hanging a TV on the wall - there is a concealed projector and screen that drop down from the ceiling when desired. Flooded with natural light from both directions from the original sliding glass doors - this home glows day and night - by sun or by fire. From this view you can see the relationship of the kitchen which was originally in this location, but previously closed off with walls. It's compact and efficient, and allows seamless interaction between hosts and guests.

Updated Master bedroom in Grey. Custom swivel settee in sitting area. Custom bedding coordinates with window treatment. Photo by Eddie Ellison
Mid-sized transitional master carpeted bedroom photo in Charlotte with gray walls and no fireplace

Blue Tie Photo
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless single-wall medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Denver with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, blue backsplash, stone tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

Inspiration for a country porch remodel in Kansas City

Dedicated laundry room - coastal single-wall white floor dedicated laundry room idea in Other with an undermount sink, blue cabinets, multicolored walls, a side-by-side washer/dryer and white countertops

Updated view of Living Room with Library in background. Christian Sauer Images
Urban light wood floor living room photo in St Louis with white walls

Inspiration for a rustic master bedroom remodel in Other with brown walls

Bathroom - transitional turquoise tile bathroom idea in Philadelphia

Located near Ennis, Montana, this cabin captures the essence of rustic style while maintaining modern comforts. Jack Watkins’ father, the namesake of the creek by which this home is built, was involved in the construction of the Old Faithful Lodge. He originally built the cabin for he and his family in 1917, with small additions and upgrades over the years. The new owners’ desire was to update the home to better facilitate modern living, but without losing the original character. Windows and doors were added, and the kitchen and bathroom were completely remodeled. Well-placed porches were added to further integrate the interior spaces to their adjacent exterior counterparts, as well as a mud room—a practical requirement in rural Montana. Today, details like the unique juniper handrail leading up to the library, will remind visitors and guests of its historical Western roots.

The Home Aesthetic
Example of a country master dark wood floor bedroom design in Indianapolis with gray walls and no fireplace

These bathrooms, shared by teenage sisters, needed an update from the girly bright pink on the walls to a contemporary young adult look. The rooms were given a trendy gray and white makeover with white shaker cabinets, modern calacatta tiling and popular super white granite countertops. Design-Build by Hatfield Builders & Remodelers; photography credits Versatile Imaging.

Transitional exterior home photo in San Francisco

Unique opportunity to live your best life in this architectural home. Ideally nestled at the end of a serene cul-de-sac and perfectly situated at the top of a knoll with sweeping mountain, treetop, and sunset views- some of the best in all of Westlake Village! Enter through the sleek mahogany glass door and feel the awe of the grand two story great room with wood-clad vaulted ceilings, dual-sided gas fireplace, custom windows w/motorized blinds, and gleaming hardwood floors. Enjoy luxurious amenities inside this organic flowing floorplan boasting a cozy den, dream kitchen, comfortable dining area, and a masterpiece entertainers yard. Lounge around in the high-end professionally designed outdoor spaces featuring: quality craftsmanship wood fencing, drought tolerant lush landscape and artificial grass, sleek modern hardscape with strategic landscape lighting, built in BBQ island w/ plenty of bar seating and Lynx Pro-Sear Rotisserie Grill, refrigerator, and custom storage, custom designed stone gas firepit, attached post & beam pergola ready for stargazing, cafe lights, and various calming water features—All working together to create a harmoniously serene outdoor living space while simultaneously enjoying 180' views! Lush grassy side yard w/ privacy hedges, playground space and room for a farm to table garden! Open concept luxe kitchen w/SS appliances incl Thermador gas cooktop/hood, Bosch dual ovens, Bosch dishwasher, built in smart microwave, garden casement window, customized maple cabinetry, updated Taj Mahal quartzite island with breakfast bar, and the quintessential built-in coffee/bar station with appliance storage! One bedroom and full bath downstairs with stone flooring and counter. Three upstairs bedrooms, an office/gym, and massive bonus room (with potential for separate living quarters). The two generously sized bedrooms with ample storage and views have access to a fully upgraded sumptuous designer bathroom! The gym/office boasts glass French doors, wood-clad vaulted ceiling + treetop views. The permitted bonus room is a rare unique find and has potential for possible separate living quarters. Bonus Room has a separate entrance with a private staircase, awe-inspiring picture windows, wood-clad ceilings, surround-sound speakers, ceiling fans, wet bar w/fridge, granite counters, under-counter lights, and a built in window seat w/storage. Oversized master suite boasts gorgeous natural light, endless views, lounge area, his/hers walk-in closets, and a rustic spa-like master bath featuring a walk-in shower w/dual heads, frameless glass door + slate flooring. Maple dual sink vanity w/black granite, modern brushed nickel fixtures, sleek lighting, W/C! Ultra efficient laundry room with laundry shoot connecting from upstairs, SS sink, waterfall quartz counters, and built in desk for hobby or work + a picturesque casement window looking out to a private grassy area. Stay organized with the tastefully handcrafted mudroom bench, hooks, shelving and ample storage just off the direct 2 car garage! Nearby the Village Homes clubhouse, tennis & pickle ball courts, ample poolside lounge chairs, tables, and umbrellas, full-sized pool for free swimming and laps, an oversized children's pool perfect for entertaining the kids and guests, complete with lifeguards on duty and a wonderful place to meet your Village Homes neighbors. Nearby parks, schools, shops, hiking, lake, beaches, and more. Live an intentionally inspired life at 2228 Knollcrest — a sprawling architectural gem!

Modern concrete paver pathway with decorative ground cover leading to the entry of this updated craftsman style home.
Inspiration for a large craftsman green one-story mixed siding exterior home remodel in San Francisco with a shingle roof

Kitchen - traditional kitchen idea in Detroit

The goal of the project was to update the kitchen and butler's pantry of this over 100 year old house. The kitchen and butler's pantry cabinetry were from different eras and the counter top was disjointed around the existing sink, with an old radiator in the way. The clients were inspired by the cabinetry color in one of our projects posted earlier on Houzz and we successfully blended that with personalized elements to create a kitchen in a style of their own. The butler's pantry behind the range wall with it's lit glass door cabinets matches the kitchen's style and acts as a backdrop for the custom range hood and uniquely tiled wall. We maximized the counter space around the custom Galley sink by replacing the old radiator that was in the way with a toe space heater, and by extending the integral drain board above the dishwasher.

The owners of this mid-century post-and-beam Pasadena house overlooking the Arroyo Seco asked us to add onto and adapt the house to meet their current needs. The renovation infused the home with a contemporary aesthetic while retaining the home's original character (reminiscent of Cliff May's Ranch-style houses) the project includes and extension to the master bedroom, a new outdoor living room, and updates to the pool, pool house, landscape, and hardscape. we were also asked to design and fabricate custom cabinetry for the home office and an aluminum and glass table for the dining room. PROJECT TEAM: Peter Tolkin,Angela Uriu, Dan Parks, Anthony Denzer, Leigh Jerrard,Ted Rubenstein, Christopher Girt ENGINEERS: Charles Tan + Associates (Structural) LANDSCAPE: Elysian Landscapes GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Western Installations PHOTOGRAPHER:Peter Tolkin