Nestled into the pines and fog, Gerrish Island made quite an eerie first impression. A winding driveway guided by a rhythm of trees so mature only the trunks could be seen through the car windows. The tree canopy created a darkened tunnel, its curves never providing clues to when it would end. The awe came from the pure excitement of what we would find around the bend. It was clad in age; dark weathered shingles, a mossy green trim, and craggy stonework. The screens had seen better days and the windows let in scant natural light. It had certainly been something special to its previous owners – a backdrop to highly anticipated summer escapes, grassy yard games, and beach days. It had been a special place to someone – empty now – but with the promise of huge potential. READ MORE >> The new owner of this turn-of-the-century shingle style home saw this potential too, asking us to imbue the home with that same sense of nostalgia, but in present day context for a modern day family. We documented the home inside and out, piecing together a loose timeline to its beginnings and its earlier additions and renovations. The style of the home, its massing and siting, were originally done brilliantly and would remain intact. Wherever we could keep the original stonework we did. It provided such a strong connection to the site and the tremendous amount of existing stone outcropping common to the Island. The original porch facing west, cold and enclosed, was demolished, making way for a new wrap around porch that now glows as the sunsets. Another screened porch to the back was fully winterized and made into a new family room. The interior was stripped back to the studs and reworked, only minimally, to improve flow or eliminate small rooms no longer necessary for present day living. New systems were installed and the kitchen was updated and reconfigured opening up to the new family room. Years later we were asked back to add a garage; something the home had never had. More flattering still, after the property sold again, the newest owners asked us to design a rear ‘L’ shaped addition to house. The design evolved to look like an original porch that had been enclosed, to house a more traditional butler’s pantry, mudroom, and an interior connection to the garage’s second floor where we would eventually design two additional guest suites. We were happy to be apart of what we thought was the second life for this home and ended up being a third life for another family who also saw this home and its unique property as too GOOD to pass up. - See more at: http://sommastudios.com/project/gerrish-island/#sthash.8X5r548R.dpuf

Red Door Home Staging / Brenda Alford BrendaAlford@gmail.com / 225-252-6385 www.reddoor-homestaging.com At Red Door Home Staging, our goal is to work closely with you to create an environment that is appealing to all potential buyers and ultimately sell your home as quickly as possible. Home Staging is a great way to sell your home for more money, less time on the market, and less stress. We also believe that making a great first impression to potential buyers is critical in selling your home - you never get a second chance to make a great first impression!

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

The new space looks nothing like it was before. Original kitchen was too small, and adjacent areas had a few other problems. The front door opened straight into the wall of a long narrow hallway. It created a 90 degree turn to get into the family room. The door between the kitchen and dining room made the traffic flow awkward for both areas. Coat closet in the front hallway located right across the stairwell, created potential fall hazard when opening the door. Solution: With the rear porch door left in place, the two side windows were swapped and the kitchen was relocated to the opposite wall. Hallway walls were taken down and the coat closet was relocated away from the stairs. Door opening between the dining room and former kitchen was restored. After remodeling, all rooms became bigger and more functional. New beautiful kitchen has a central island and a built-in breakfast nook. Family room also feels more open. Dining Room has a better traffic flow and holds the potential for a bigger table to seat more guests.

This is No. 2 in the real estate development project that BOTTEGA miscellanea completed. The furniture was on its way out the door so please reference no 1 for a better understanding of the space sizes and potentials. Colors and materials make this unit stand out. We had many comments from excited potential buyers, and the unit went fast. Thanks to Scott Booth for the great photography.

For years, this family felt like their main floor was working against them. The kitchen was a tight galley where only one person could comfortably stand at a time. An old addition felt disconnected and awkward, making everyday life a struggle. Rethinking the Space They thought the only solution was a big, expensive addition. But after walking through the home and completing a feasibility study, we found that the square footage was already there. It just needed a smarter plan. Designing a Floor That Works We reimagined how the home works day to day. The kitchen became a bright, open hub with a generous island perfect for cooking, homework, and family time. Awkward corners were given clear and useful purposes. A long steel span replaced an exterior wall that could not carry the load, opening the space safely and effectively. Personal Touches We made sure the house reflected the family. A custom basement door with a built-in cat door adds charm and function, and cat-shaped handles in the laundry room bring personality throughout the home. Even the piano room feels warm, inviting, and easy to live in. A Home That Flows Now, multiple people can cook together comfortably. The rooms feel connected and welcoming. The previously awkward addition feels fully integrated. Daily life flows naturally, and the house finally supports the family instead of working against them. Discover the Potential in Your Home If your kitchen does not work or a space feels off, there may be more potential than you realize. Sometimes the right solution is already within your walls. Reach out to us, and see what your home could become! Sosna Incorporated 7250 Keele Street, Unit 372 Vaughan, ON L4K 1Z8 Phone: 416-888-7366 extension 1 Email: contact@sosna.ca

Red Door Home Staging / Brenda Alford BrendaAlford@gmail.com / 225-252-6385 www.reddoor-homestaging.com At Red Door Home Staging, our goal is to work closely with you to create an environment that is appealing to all potential buyers and ultimately sell your home as quickly as possible. Home Staging is a great way to sell your home for more money, less time on the market, and less stress. We also believe that making a great first impression to potential buyers is critical in selling your home - you never get a second chance to make a great first impression!

The new space looks nothing like it was before. Original kitchen was too small, and adjacent areas had a few other problems. The front door opened straight into the wall of a long narrow hallway. It created a 90 degree turn to get into the family room. The door between the kitchen and dining room made the traffic flow awkward for both areas. Coat closet in the front hallway located right across the stairwell, created potential fall hazard when opening the door. Solution: With the rear porch door left in place, the two side windows were swapped and the kitchen was relocated to the opposite wall. Hallway walls were taken down and the coat closet was relocated away from the stairs. Door opening between the dining room and former kitchen was restored. After remodeling, all rooms became bigger and more functional. New beautiful kitchen has a central island and a built-in breakfast nook. Family room also feels more open. Dining Room has a better traffic flow and holds the potential for a bigger table to seat more guests.

Introducing the Sequoia floorplan - a harmonious blend of strength, flexibility, and elegance. This home offers a generous 2,566 square feet of living space, complete with a two-car garage and three bedrooms, with the option to add a fourth. As you step through the grand entrance, you're greeted by a soaring two-story ceiling that sets the tone for the rest of this impressive home. The first floor features a master bedroom suite, conveniently located for easy access, eliminating the need to climb stairs. The den, situated near the entrance, serves as the perfect space for a home office. The Sequoia floorplan also includes a pocket office, a laundry room, and a spacious open-concept kitchen and great room, making it an ideal setting for gatherings, whether they're intimate or grand. The covered back patio completes the first floor, offering a beautiful outdoor space for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a peaceful sunset. The second floor serves as a private sanctuary. It houses two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a large loft, offering a versatile space that can be tailored to your needs. Whether you envision a media room, a game room, or a separate space for teenagers, the Sequoia floorplan can accommodate your lifestyle. Experience the perfect blend of versatility and luxury with the Sequoia floorplan, where every detail is designed with your comfort in mind.

I was recently hired to stage an older (yet very charming) duplex in Carlisle, PA. The home is vacant and had been a rental for the past few years. It has adorable wood moulding throughout, as well as hardwood flooring on the main level. Considering what the homeowner has invested in appliances and other repairs, as well as realtor fees, the budget for staging was right around $1000. This allowed us to bring in furniture, accessories, area rugs and wall art to really bring the home to life. Take a look at the before and after and see what a difference $1000 can make on a home! Before staging, the house felt drab and boring. The view of the neighbor’s peeling house paint outside the windows was a huge distraction from the potential of this home to be a warm and cheery place for a potential buyer. Ideally, I would have placed curtain rods and soft, white sheers over the windows to allow the light to stream in, yet help detract from the need for a paint job on the exterior of the neighbor’s home. However the seller’s budget didn’t allow for window treatments so my job was to use the furniture and accessories keep the eye and focus on the beauty of this home and help buyers to feel like this house could be their home. Seeking a real estate home stager in the Harrisburg, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg or Carlisle area of central PA? Contact Sherri today. No home staging job is too big or too small.

Introducing the Sequoia floorplan - a harmonious blend of strength, flexibility, and elegance. This home offers a generous 2,566 square feet of living space, complete with a two-car garage and three bedrooms, with the option to add a fourth. As you step through the grand entrance, you're greeted by a soaring two-story ceiling that sets the tone for the rest of this impressive home. The first floor features a master bedroom suite, conveniently located for easy access, eliminating the need to climb stairs. The den, situated near the entrance, serves as the perfect space for a home office. The Sequoia floorplan also includes a pocket office, a laundry room, and a spacious open-concept kitchen and great room, making it an ideal setting for gatherings, whether they're intimate or grand. The covered back patio completes the first floor, offering a beautiful outdoor space for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a peaceful sunset. The second floor serves as a private sanctuary. It houses two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a large loft, offering a versatile space that can be tailored to your needs. Whether you envision a media room, a game room, or a separate space for teenagers, the Sequoia floorplan can accommodate your lifestyle. Experience the perfect blend of versatility and luxury with the Sequoia floorplan, where every detail is designed with your comfort in mind.

Introducing the Sequoia floorplan - a harmonious blend of strength, flexibility, and elegance. This home offers a generous 2,566 square feet of living space, complete with a two-car garage and three bedrooms, with the option to add a fourth. As you step through the grand entrance, you're greeted by a soaring two-story ceiling that sets the tone for the rest of this impressive home. The first floor features a master bedroom suite, conveniently located for easy access, eliminating the need to climb stairs. The den, situated near the entrance, serves as the perfect space for a home office. The Sequoia floorplan also includes a pocket office, a laundry room, and a spacious open-concept kitchen and great room, making it an ideal setting for gatherings, whether they're intimate or grand. The covered back patio completes the first floor, offering a beautiful outdoor space for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a peaceful sunset. The second floor serves as a private sanctuary. It houses two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a large loft, offering a versatile space that can be tailored to your needs. Whether you envision a media room, a game room, or a separate space for teenagers, the Sequoia floorplan can accommodate your lifestyle. Experience the perfect blend of versatility and luxury with the Sequoia floorplan, where every detail is designed with your comfort in mind.

AN INVITING BASEMENT REMODEL THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY Are you tired of your basement being a dreary space used solely for storage? Well, it's time to transform it into a cozy and inviting area that the whole family can enjoy! A basement remodel is the perfect opportunity to create a comfortable and functional space that will add value to your home. And what better way to elevate your basement's entertainment potential than with a built-in wet bar? Get ready to raise a glass and say cheers to comfort as we dive into the details of designing a cozy basement remodel. A basement remodel can add significant value to your home and give you more space to relax. On weekends, a basement bar will surely make your home the go-to spot for get togethers with friends. Before diving into your basement remodel, it's important to assess your space and determine its potential. Take a good look at the layout, lighting, and any existing features that could enhance your design. By assessing your basement space thoroughly, you'll be one step closer to creating a cozy and inviting oasis for your family. Perhaps you can incorporate a built-in bar with a green tile backsplash or add a touch of natural beauty with a live edge wood top. The bar features warm colors, rich textures in the hand made tile and plenty of seating space for family and friends to gather around. The bar live edge countertop with Hunter green epoxy center stage in our clients basement makeover and really brings the drama. ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS FOR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY BASEMENT When designing a family-friendly basement, it's important to consider essential elements that will make the space comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. Incorporating a green epoxy flooring can add a vibrant and durable touch to your basement, making it easy to clean and perfect for kids' playtime. Additionally, consider adding ample storage solutions, cozy seating areas, and versatile lighting options to create a space that is functional, inviting, and perfect for family gatherings and entertainment.

This beautiful Million dollar home in Apollo Beach was dressed for success. Showhomes Tampa staged it to show off it's full potential. Potential buyers can visualize how the home would feel when furnished and with a loving family enjoying all it has to offer.

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

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!

The master bedroom received new hardwood floors in a light color to match the main floor as well as a fresh coat of paint. We Staged it with transitional furniture and accessories to help buyers see the full potential of the expansive space. The space was so large that we were able to create a seating area with a pair of occasional chairs, a coffee table, and an area rug. A soft color palette provides potential buyers with a feeling of a restful calm and inviting space - something everyone wants at the end of a long workday.

This is No. 2 in the real estate development project that BOTTEGA miscellanea completed. The furniture was on its way out the door so please reference no 1 for a better understanding of the space sizes and potentials. Colors and materials make this unit stand out. We had many comments from excited potential buyers, and the unit went fast. Thanks to Scott Booth for the great photography.

For years, this family felt like their main floor was working against them. The kitchen was a tight galley where only one person could comfortably stand at a time. An old addition felt disconnected and awkward, making everyday life a struggle. Rethinking the Space They thought the only solution was a big, expensive addition. But after walking through the home and completing a feasibility study, we found that the square footage was already there. It just needed a smarter plan. Designing a Floor That Works We reimagined how the home works day to day. The kitchen became a bright, open hub with a generous island perfect for cooking, homework, and family time. Awkward corners were given clear and useful purposes. A long steel span replaced an exterior wall that could not carry the load, opening the space safely and effectively. Personal Touches We made sure the house reflected the family. A custom basement door with a built-in cat door adds charm and function, and cat-shaped handles in the laundry room bring personality throughout the home. Even the piano room feels warm, inviting, and easy to live in. A Home That Flows Now, multiple people can cook together comfortably. The rooms feel connected and welcoming. The previously awkward addition feels fully integrated. Daily life flows naturally, and the house finally supports the family instead of working against them. Discover the Potential in Your Home If your kitchen does not work or a space feels off, there may be more potential than you realize. Sometimes the right solution is already within your walls. Reach out to us, and see what your home could become! Sosna Incorporated 7250 Keele Street, Unit 372 Vaughan, ON L4K 1Z8 Phone: 416-888-7366 extension 1 Email: contact@sosna.ca