Search results for "Potential long term" in Home Design Ideas

This project transformed an existing outdoor space into a functional, all-season retreat with the addition of a custom waterproof pergola system. Built using white UCS panels with an integrated gutter, the structure provides reliable weather protection while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
The pergola was constructed on the home’s existing 6x6 pressure-treated posts, originally part of a trellis system, allowing for an efficient build while preserving the existing framework. Structural flexibility was built into the design, including provisions for an additional support post and potential height adjustments to ensure long-term performance and adaptability.
To enhance comfort and usability, integrated lighting and a patio heater were added, extending the functionality of the space into the evening and cooler months.
The end result is a refined outdoor living area that combines durability, protection from the elements, and year-round comfort—all while seamlessly blending with the home’s existing structure.

We recently completed a custom 900 sq. ft. ADU in San Gabriel for a young family seeking to maximize the potential of their property with a smart, functional living space. Designed from the ground up, this unit features three bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a bright and open-concept kitchen and living room, and a dedicated laundry area, all thoughtfully laid out to maximize the compact footprint.
Every inch of the space was carefully considered for modern family living. Large windows and vaulted ceilings were incorporated to enhance volume and natural light, while finishes were selected for both durability and style. The kitchen features clean lines and ample storage, creating a practical hub for day-to-day life. Throughout the ADU, we focused on high-function design that feels spacious, comfortable, and move-in ready.
This project reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality builds that meet the needs of growing families while adding long-term value to the property. We’re proud to have partnered with our clients to bring their vision to life.

We recently completed a custom 900 sq. ft. ADU in San Gabriel for a young family seeking to maximize the potential of their property with a smart, functional living space. Designed from the ground up, this unit features three bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a bright and open-concept kitchen and living room, and a dedicated laundry area, all thoughtfully laid out to maximize the compact footprint.
Every inch of the space was carefully considered for modern family living. Large windows and vaulted ceilings were incorporated to enhance volume and natural light, while finishes were selected for both durability and style. The kitchen features clean lines and ample storage, creating a practical hub for day-to-day life. Throughout the ADU, we focused on high-function design that feels spacious, comfortable, and move-in ready.
This project reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality builds that meet the needs of growing families while adding long-term value to the property. We’re proud to have partnered with our clients to bring their vision to life.
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Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room.
Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials.
Design Objectives:
Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space.
Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household.
Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint.
Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners.
Design Challenges:
Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy.
Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate.
Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations.
Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality.
Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian.
Design Solutions:
Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station.
Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities.
Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance.
Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center.
Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design.
The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home.
Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.

Office Workstations and Cubicles: The Unsung Heroes of Efficient Team Environments
In today's fast-paced business world, the hum of productivity is the sweetest sound an office can produce. But what fuels this symphony of efficiency?
While leadership and strategy are crucial, the physical environment in which a team operates plays a role that is just as vital. The debate between open-plan offices and traditional cubicles has raged for years, yet the truth is that a well-designed space incorporating both office workstations cubicles can be the key to unlocking a team's full potential. This isn't just about furniture; it's about creating a habitat for success.
The Evolution of the Workspace: Beyond the Beige Box
Gone are the days of monotonous rows of identical, soul-crushing cubicles. Modern office design has embraced a more nuanced understanding of worker needs. The contemporary workstation is a far cry from its predecessors, offering flexibility, ergonomic support, and a nod to aesthetic appeal. This evolution recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach stifles creativity and productivity.
Fostering Focus in a Sea of Collaboration
While collaboration is a cornerstone of modern business, the need for individual, focused work remains paramount. This is where the modern cubicle shines. It provides a sanctuary from the constant distractions of a completely open office, allowing employees to delve deep into tasks that require concentration. This dedicated space minimizes interruptions, leading to higher quality work and reduced stress levels.
The Power of Personalization and Ownership
Giving employees a degree of control over their immediate environment can have a profound impact on morale and engagement. Modern workstations and cubicles that allow for personalization be it through adjustable shelving, pinboards for personal items, or even the choice of chair foster a sense of ownership. This small act of empowerment can translate into a greater sense of belonging and commitment to the organization.
Ergonomics: The Foundation of Employee Well-being and Productivity
A comfortable employee is a productive employee. Ergonomics is not a luxury; it's a fundamental necessity in any office environment. Poorly designed workstations can lead to a host of musculoskeletal issues, from back pain to carpal tunnel syndrome, resulting in increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency. Investing in ergonomic chairs, adjustable-height desks, and properly positioned monitors is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your team.
Designing for Synergy: The Strategic office layout design
The arrangement of workstations and cubicles is as important as the furniture itself. A strategic office layout design can facilitate seamless communication and collaboration while still providing pockets of privacy for focused work. This involves creating "neighborhoods" for different teams, placing collaborative zones in central, easily accessible areas, and ensuring that high-traffic pathways don't cut through quiet work zones.
Breaking Down Barriers with Hybrid Designs
The most effective office environments often feature a hybrid approach. This might involve clusters of cubicles for focused work, interspersed with open, collaborative "huddle spaces" equipped with whiteboards and comfortable seating. This variety allows employees to choose the environment that best suits the task at hand, offering the best of both worlds.
The Role of Acoustics in a Thriving Workplace
Noise is one of the biggest complaints in open-plan offices. Well-designed cubicles with sound-dampening panels can significantly mitigate this issue. Furthermore, incorporating acoustic solutions throughout the office, such as sound-absorbing materials on walls and ceilings, can create a more pleasant and productive auditory environment for everyone.
Integrating Technology for a Seamless Workflow
In the digital age, technology is the lifeblood of any business. Modern office workstations are designed with this in mind, featuring integrated power and data ports, cable management systems, and ample space for multiple monitors. This seamless integration of technology ensures that employees have the tools they need to work efficiently and without frustration.
Choosing the Right Partner for Your Office Environment
The task of outfitting an office can be daunting. Partnering with a knowledgeable and reputable Meet&Co commercial furniture supplier is crucial to creating an environment that is both functional and inspiring. A good supplier will not only offer a wide range of high-quality products but will also provide expert advice on space planning and ergonomic best practices, ensuring that your investment yields the best possible return.
The Future of the Office: Flexibility and Adaptability
The world of work is constantly evolving, and office design must evolve with it. The future lies in creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the changing needs of a business. Modular furniture and movable partitions are key components of this future-proof approach, allowing organizations to scale and adapt without the need for costly and disruptive renovations.
Conclusion: A Strategic Investment in Your Greatest Asset
Ultimately, the design of your office is a direct reflection of your company's culture and values. By investing in high-quality, ergonomic, and well-designed office workstations and cubicles, you are sending a clear message to your employees: their well-being and productivity matter. This strategic investment in your physical workspace is, in fact, an investment in your most valuable asset your people. The result is a more engaged, efficient, and innovative team, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

A residential transformation in Lynwood, California, converting an existing structure into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior ADU (JADU) to maximize usability and long-term property value.
The project focuses on efficient space planning, clear organization, and code-compliant design to create independent living units within a compact footprint. Thoughtful layouts enhance privacy, natural light, and functionality, supporting both comfortable living and flexible use.
Developed as part of a multi-unit strategy, the design responds to California’s evolving housing needs while offering a practical and refined solution for homeowners and potential rental income.

This project transformed an existing outdoor space into a functional, all-season retreat with the addition of a custom waterproof pergola system. Built using white UCS panels with an integrated gutter, the structure provides reliable weather protection while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
The pergola was constructed on the home’s existing 6x6 pressure-treated posts, originally part of a trellis system, allowing for an efficient build while preserving the existing framework. Structural flexibility was built into the design, including provisions for an additional support post and potential height adjustments to ensure long-term performance and adaptability.
To enhance comfort and usability, integrated lighting and a patio heater were added, extending the functionality of the space into the evening and cooler months.
The end result is a refined outdoor living area that combines durability, protection from the elements, and year-round comfort—all while seamlessly blending with the home’s existing structure.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room.
Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials.
Design Objectives:
Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space.
Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household.
Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint.
Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners.
Design Challenges:
Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy.
Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate.
Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations.
Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality.
Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian.
Design Solutions:
Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station.
Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities.
Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance.
Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center.
Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design.
The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home.
Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.

This four-bedroom PLUS permitted one-bedroom ADU guest house exudes luxury. Meticulously detailed, this home's open floor plan delights with the perfect trifecta of living room, dining room, and kitchen in seamless flow. With hardwood floors, recessed lighting, wainscoting, and dual-pane windows throughout, the added features of a built-in wine bar with wine fridge, open shelving, and geometric accent wall complement the home's aesthetic. The highlight, however, is the dreamy remodeled kitchen featuring Italian Forno appliances, custom cabinetry, quartz counters, farmhouse sink, and breathtaking indigo-tile backsplash. The breakfast bar, with seating for four, shines under contemporary pendant lighting while offering the perfect gathering space for family and guests. The bright and airy primary en suite includes French doors that open to the idyllic backyard featuring an outdoor fireplace and stamped concrete seating area as well as soft Bermuda grass and crisp white privacy walls. Three generous guest bedrooms, two bathrooms and a full size laundry area complete the main home. Out back, a fully permitted one-bedroom, one-bathroom ADU with living area, laundry closet and kitchen makes an ideal space for guests, or potential short or long term rental income.

This project transformed an existing outdoor space into a functional, all-season retreat with the addition of a custom waterproof pergola system. Built using white UCS panels with an integrated gutter, the structure provides reliable weather protection while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
The pergola was constructed on the home’s existing 6x6 pressure-treated posts, originally part of a trellis system, allowing for an efficient build while preserving the existing framework. Structural flexibility was built into the design, including provisions for an additional support post and potential height adjustments to ensure long-term performance and adaptability.
To enhance comfort and usability, integrated lighting and a patio heater were added, extending the functionality of the space into the evening and cooler months.
The end result is a refined outdoor living area that combines durability, protection from the elements, and year-round comfort—all while seamlessly blending with the home’s existing structure.

? HouseFX — Remodeling & Restoration Specialists
1. Residential Remodeling
Full-service home makeovers: kitchens, bathrooms, living spaces, master suites, and more.
Design‑build approach tailored to your vision.
Focus on modern functionality, timeless aesthetics, and increased home value.
2. Home Additions
Additions including bedrooms, sunrooms, second-story expansions, and extended kitchens.
Seamless integration with existing architecture and full handling of permits & planning.
Costs typically between $100 – $300/sq ft, with potential value increase of ~30 % on project cost.
3. Commercial Remodeling
Renovations for offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and multifamily units.
Tenant improvements, pre‑sale upgrades, or full commercial fit‑outs.
Customized to align with both aesthetic and functional business needs.
4. Building Restoration & Exterior Renovation
Restoration services for water damage, structural repairs, historic home preservation.
Exterior work: roofing, siding, windows, and energy‑efficient upgrades to withstand Texas weather.
Restoration costs for historic homes can reach ~$475/sq ft; water damage repairs typically $1,200–$5,000.
5. Outdoor Living & Smart Home Enhancements
Custom patios, kitchens, fireplaces, pergolas, and other outdoor living features.
Integration of smart home tech: thermostats, lighting, security systems, and automation.
Emphasis on sustainable materials, energy-efficient upgrades, and modern trends.
✔️ Why Choose HouseFX?
End‑to‑end project management: design, permitting, construction, inspections—all streamlined for smooth execution.
Attention to detail: tailored designs that respect architectural integrity and client vision.
Energy‑efficiency focus: eco-friendly materials, upgraded insulation, smart systems for long‑term savings.
HouseFX
Value-driven budgeting: transparent cost estimates, on‑budget delivery, financing options available.

We recently completed a custom 900 sq. ft. ADU in San Gabriel for a young family seeking to maximize the potential of their property with a smart, functional living space. Designed from the ground up, this unit features three bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a bright and open-concept kitchen and living room, and a dedicated laundry area, all thoughtfully laid out to maximize the compact footprint.
Every inch of the space was carefully considered for modern family living. Large windows and vaulted ceilings were incorporated to enhance volume and natural light, while finishes were selected for both durability and style. The kitchen features clean lines and ample storage, creating a practical hub for day-to-day life. Throughout the ADU, we focused on high-function design that feels spacious, comfortable, and move-in ready.
This project reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality builds that meet the needs of growing families while adding long-term value to the property. We’re proud to have partnered with our clients to bring their vision to life.

This project transformed an existing outdoor space into a functional, all-season retreat with the addition of a custom waterproof pergola system. Built using white UCS panels with an integrated gutter, the structure provides reliable weather protection while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
The pergola was constructed on the home’s existing 6x6 pressure-treated posts, originally part of a trellis system, allowing for an efficient build while preserving the existing framework. Structural flexibility was built into the design, including provisions for an additional support post and potential height adjustments to ensure long-term performance and adaptability.
To enhance comfort and usability, integrated lighting and a patio heater were added, extending the functionality of the space into the evening and cooler months.
The end result is a refined outdoor living area that combines durability, protection from the elements, and year-round comfort—all while seamlessly blending with the home’s existing structure.

We recently completed a custom 900 sq. ft. ADU in San Gabriel for a young family seeking to maximize the potential of their property with a smart, functional living space. Designed from the ground up, this unit features three bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a bright and open-concept kitchen and living room, and a dedicated laundry area, all thoughtfully laid out to maximize the compact footprint.
Every inch of the space was carefully considered for modern family living. Large windows and vaulted ceilings were incorporated to enhance volume and natural light, while finishes were selected for both durability and style. The kitchen features clean lines and ample storage, creating a practical hub for day-to-day life. Throughout the ADU, we focused on high-function design that feels spacious, comfortable, and move-in ready.
This project reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality builds that meet the needs of growing families while adding long-term value to the property. We’re proud to have partnered with our clients to bring their vision to life.

These homeowners approached us with a partially finished basement lacking a bathroom and an inefficient laundry area. One of the homeowners used the unconditioned, cold, and damp space as a home office, making it uncomfortable and impractical.
The goal was to create a fully functional and versatile living space by adding a full bathroom, a kitchenette, and a concealed laundry area. The space needed to be designed to serve the family’s daily needs, including accommodating their teenage son and functioning as potential rental income in the future.
Now considered an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), the remodeled basement features a private entrance, bathroom, kitchenette, and bedroom, offering comfort, flexibility, and long-term value for the homeowners.

This four-bedroom PLUS permitted one-bedroom ADU guest house exudes luxury. Meticulously detailed, this home's open floor plan delights with the perfect trifecta of living room, dining room, and kitchen in seamless flow. With hardwood floors, recessed lighting, wainscoting, and dual-pane windows throughout, the added features of a built-in wine bar with wine fridge, open shelving, and geometric accent wall complement the home's aesthetic. The highlight, however, is the dreamy remodeled kitchen featuring Italian Forno appliances, custom cabinetry, quartz counters, farmhouse sink, and breathtaking indigo-tile backsplash. The breakfast bar, with seating for four, shines under contemporary pendant lighting while offering the perfect gathering space for family and guests. The bright and airy primary en suite includes French doors that open to the idyllic backyard featuring an outdoor fireplace and stamped concrete seating area as well as soft Bermuda grass and crisp white privacy walls. Three generous guest bedrooms, two bathrooms and a full size laundry area complete the main home. Out back, a fully permitted one-bedroom, one-bathroom ADU with living area, laundry closet and kitchen makes an ideal space for guests, or potential short or long term rental income.

This project transformed an existing outdoor space into a functional, all-season retreat with the addition of a custom waterproof pergola system. Built using white UCS panels with an integrated gutter, the structure provides reliable weather protection while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
The pergola was constructed on the home’s existing 6x6 pressure-treated posts, originally part of a trellis system, allowing for an efficient build while preserving the existing framework. Structural flexibility was built into the design, including provisions for an additional support post and potential height adjustments to ensure long-term performance and adaptability.
To enhance comfort and usability, integrated lighting and a patio heater were added, extending the functionality of the space into the evening and cooler months.
The end result is a refined outdoor living area that combines durability, protection from the elements, and year-round comfort—all while seamlessly blending with the home’s existing structure.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Some of our goals and solutions were obvious in this Timeless Style Renovation, other challenges required loads of plotting and planning.
Our client inherited his Marlton, New Jersey childhood home and for years chose to keep it ‘as is’ out of respect for his family and because (truth) it was going to be a significant investment — the entire house needed to be refreshed! Flooring, fireplace, removal of walls, windows enlarged, many pocket doors added, all bathrooms redesigned, electric/ gas not to code (from 1965), a massive 300lb safe to incorporate/ tuck away somewhere, planning for a future potential main level in-law suite — the list was very long!
Inspiration was easy: they had won awards for their stunning koi pond and landscaping, and they love to entertain. Getting these high powered professionals who were used to running divisions of huge corporations to hand over the reins … NOT so easy. Thankfully, they now can’t stop singing our praises! See their other amazing rooms here.

 
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Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall.
The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home.
Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup!
One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space.
The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back.
We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed.
Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it!
We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake!
Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs.
We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together.
We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown.
Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility.
The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels.
The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy.
This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Photography by: Michael Kaskel
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This modern townhome in Vaughan received some mid-century modern flair and some really fun wallpaper.
The large open concept living room was challenging in terms of creating a successful layout and we addressed it by bringing a large sectional closer to the center of the room rather than anchoring it against walls. Plenty of circulation space for a sideboard with a beautiful vinyl player, a collection of tall architectural prints and an eight foot tall floor lamp bring the eye up a double story living space.
Fun wallpaper creates a long feature wall in the living and dining area with a geometric pattern that brings some movement to the room and is also mirrored in the kitchen backsplash and sideboard veneer.
We designed a bedroom with the perfect shade of blue that will age nicely with our client’s young son along with a calming study perfect for getting some work done.
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