Search results for "Practical choice" in Home Design Ideas

e were especially pleased to work with this lovely client again, having designed a kitchen for her previously. This new project consisted of two briefs to maximise the space and natural light for a bijoux annexe;
Design a sleek contemporary open plan kitchen plus utility.
Design bedroom storage and a home working space within the open plan area.
To achieve the contemporary uncluttered style that would maximise the sense of light and space, a true handleless design was the obvious choice. The main run of cabinets in the kitchen and on the wardrobe doors are acrylic gloss with a ply edge. The light reflecting qualities of the gloss doors is further accentuated by the tropical green toughened glass panel behind the sink. We just love this injection of colour. It not only really suits this modern space but will look fabulous when the patio area is developed. Our customer is planning to create a beautiful green oasis with plants on the patio, which will just make this area feel so connected to the outside. The sink area is finished off perfectly with a black Quooker Fusion tap.
The kitchen island offers a great contrast with the main run of furniture. The concrete effect handleless doors and Konigstone quartz ‘Concrete fossil’ worktop create a real feature, and provide some texture. Extending the worktop down over the sides of the island complements the seamless and uncluttered style of this kitchen perfectly. Not only does it look great, but its a practical space too. Built into the island is an evo port for sockets, enabling it to double up as a work and food prep area.
For a final flourish, the glass shelves are all fitted with LED lights behind them, offering more ambient lighting options.

The Setup
When our clients decided to remodel their primary bathroom, the goal was to transform the space into a brighter, more open retreat tailored to their needs. The previous layout, with its enclosed zones and limited functionality, no longer met their needs. By reimagining the layout and introducing thoughtful design choices, we created a modern, elegant bathroom that serves their current and future lifestyle.
Design objectives:
- Create a brighter, more open bathroom while maintaining privacy.
- Provide functional storage solutions without relying on the old linen closet.
- Incorporate a freestanding tub, large shower, and a makeup area for added versatility.
- Retain natural light from existing windows.
- Introduce elegant finishes and accents for a timeless aesthetic.
The Remodel
Design challenges to be solved:
- Reconfiguring the layout while keeping the existing plumbing for the toilet.
- Creating storage that houses everything that resided within the linen closet.
- Designing clearance and functionality for a freestanding tub, shower, and makeup area within the limited space.
- Accommodating the client’s desire for a pocket door in the commode room despite spatial constraints.
Introducing accent tile and cabinetry colors that align with the client’s vision yet maintain a cohesive look with the rest of the home.
The Renewed Space
Design solutions:
- Reimagined Layout: Moved the shower from the back of the room, creating a more open feel with additional glass while preserving privacy with a wing wall and bench. The freestanding tub was angled to optimize space and enhance circulation, with textured tile behind it adding visual interest.
- Efficient Storage: Eliminated the original linen closet and incorporated functional base cabinet storage and a designated makeup area for added utility.
- Optimized Access: Adjusted the depth of the makeup vanity to provide sufficient walkway clearance, ensuring a comfortable flow around the tub.
- Tailored Features: Installed a smaller pocket door in the commode room to resolve framing and plumbing limitations.
- Elegant Accents: Introduced a subtle marble herringbone mosaic tile in the shower and textured tile behind the tub to enhance the monochromatic palette. Painted cabinetry in a dark gray finish provided a bold yet refined contrast to the light countertops.
Final Thoughts:
The reimagined primary bathroom is a true reflection of the client’s needs and style preferences. By thoughtfully reworking the layout and incorporating functional yet elegant design elements, we created a serene and practical space that serves as a personal retreat. The result is a timeless bathroom that supports their busy lifestyle while providing moments of tranquility.

In this basement remodeling project, the homeowners desired a midcentury modern aesthetic, with a focus on transforming the stairs, refinishing the bedrooms, and creating a stylish bathroom. The staircase underwent a significant transformation by removing a wall and installing new railings, while the carpet was replaced with hardwood floors to achieve a sleek and modern look. Similarly, the bedroom carpets were removed, making way for the installation of hardwood floors, accompanied by a fresh coat of paint to update the space.
The bathroom, which was previously nonexistent, was built out and carefully designed to become a stylish and functional addition to the basement. The new tiles and unique lighting
choices added visual interest and a touch of modernity. Gold accents were incorporated throughout the bathroom, creating a luxurious and cohesive aesthetic. Sleek mirrors were added for both practicality and design, and a brand-new shower completed the transformation, offering a modern and comfortable bathing experience. The overall result of this basement remodel was a stunning midcentury modern space that successfully combined functionality with stylish design elements
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Introducing a stunning new construction that brings modern home design to life - a complete ADU remodel with exquisite features and contemporary touches that are sure to impress. The single wall kitchen layout is a standout feature, complete with sleek grey cabinetry, a clean white backsplash, and sophisticated stainless steel fixtures. Adorned with elegant white marble countertops and light hardwood floors that seamlessly flow throughout the space, this kitchen is not just visually appealing, but also functional and practical for daily use. The spacious bedroom is equally impressive, boasting a beautiful bathroom with luxurious marble details that exude a sense of indulgence and sophistication. With its sleek modern design and impeccable craftsmanship, this ADU remodel is the perfect choice for anyone looking to turn their home into a stylish, sophisticated oasis.

For those that lean towards a more classic, upscale pool design, Van Kirk & Sons offers our Roman or Geometric style pools. The overarching elegance and practicality of this timeless style makes it the perfect choice for a customer looking for a pool that is more symmetrical in form.

The VanGrow Wall Planter bridges the gap between plants and artwork. The modern planter looks immaculate on any wall and also acts as a high quality, practical planter. It is easy to install and easy to maintain. Just add water once every four to six weeks! The VanGrow holds nine 4" plants with your choice of a drywall or stone/brick mounting hardware.

Our client undertook a significant transformation of their kitchen, moving away from dark brown tones and opting for a sophisticated light-colored countertop. This choice has brought a fresh and vibrant new look to the space . The newly installed cabinets, with their sleek design and impeccable craftsmanship, have completely redefined the kitchen. These cabinets not only enhance the kitchen's visual appeal but also offer superior functionality with their smartly designed storage solutions. The light-colored countertop, made from high-quality materials, stands out with its elegance and durability, adding a touch of luxury while creating an impression of openness and brightness. Together, these updates have turned the kitchen into a modern, stylish, and highly functional area, providing the homeowners with both aesthetic pleasure and practical benefits in their daily lives.

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

Provided by 'Ancient Surfaces'
Product name: Antique Thick Limestone Countertops, AKA Foundation Slabs .
Phone: (212) 461-0245
Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com
Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com
Direct: www.AncientSurfaces.com/Foundation-Slabs.html
Those centuries old foundation Slabs were once the thick building blocks of old villas & farmhouses. Those blocks could be found at the bottom support base of many older reclaimed structures. We are passionate about milling them down to 2.5" in thickness so they could be used on counters and pool copings. Yes counters! Those thick & massive chucks of Limestone absorb virtually nothing and can stand up to anything you can throw at them.
Seemingly indestructible, they are ideal for anyone who is a great cook and who doesn’t want to worry about leaving wine rings, lime juice or oil stains on their counters while cooking or entertaining guests.
If you practically live in your kitchen which is true for many of us, you have no choice but to consider incorporating the foundation slabs as your kitchen counter tops.
Make your kitchen fun and enjoy the best counter tops available on earth by securing some of those slab cuts today.
Our thick Foundation Slabs are also ideal for any stepping stone design elements for your outdoors stairs, as stepping or landscaping stones, or as wall and pool copings able to withstand any weather pattern or condition.

Claremont Dream Home
A Single Family New Construction
Chicago, Illinois
Type: New Construction
Location: Ravenswood Neighborhood, Chicago, IL
We had the pleasure of collaborating with a young family to shape their vision of a welcoming, laid-back home in this new construction home. AHD was hired at the early stages of construction to create a cohesive environment from the architectural finishes, lighting design to the furnishings and decor.
This project is a testament to the couple's diverse cultural influences, blending their English heritage with the rich tapestry of their travels through India. Through thoughtful design choices, we've sought to create an environment that not only reflects their personal style but also accommodates their evolving family needs.
Our focus has been on crafting a contemporary interior that prioritizes both comfort and durability, ensuring that every aspect of the space is not only inviting but also functional for their growing family. We selected bespoke furnishings, where craftsmanship takes center stage. Each piece was carefully curated to embody an organic biophilic aesthetic, creating a refreshing haven using earthy colors and genuine materials.
Our ultimate design intent was to create a space that is healthy, practical as well as aesthetically pleasing, tailored to the lifestyle and preferences of our clients.

This painted shaker kitchen combines clever layout choices with homely design features for a truly standout space in Thrapston.
Located in Thrapston, this kitchen was a full project from start to finish – one that we’re all really proud of. Built around Crown Imperial’s new Verona range in Grey Aqua, it’s a fresh, soft blue-green colour that works beautifully in this newly opened-up space.
Taking inspiration from our own showroom, this kitchen includes two favourite features – a cosy bench seat and a split level island. The raised platform helps define the kitchen area without closing anything off, keeping the layout open but well-zoned. It’s practical and looks fantastic.
The bench seat adds character and connection to the entrance space. It’s a perfect place to sit with a coffee, put on your shoes, or just enjoy the view. It’s one of the first things you see as you enter the room, giving an instant sense of warmth and welcome.
This was a complete installation. We removed non-supporting walls to open up the space, then carried out all electrical, plumbing, and plastering work, along with new flooring to bring the whole room together. Our team carefully planned and completed every part.
With its soft colour palette, zoned layout and thoughtful features, this kitchen manages to be both open and grounded. It’s a true showstopper – stylish, comfortable, and made to suit this family's lifestyle.

This kitchen underwent an extensive renovation with all new appliances and adding a picture window in the back to provide a view of the backyard. The DEANE designer loves how the color palette is a departure from the current all-white trend. The rustic, industrial custom hood is made with burnished metals that play off the oil-rubbed bronze hardware and the lighting fixtures. The over-sized island is made from two book-matched pieces of Taj Mahal quartzite – a natural stone, practically indestructible and a fantastic choice for this family of five. The island cabinets reflect the growing trend of using warmer, natural tones. The Weimaraner color which was used anchors the island against the creamy perimeter cabinets. The large island was designed with the owners’ love of cooking and making pasta together as a family.

This kitchen remodel was designed to combine functionality, style, and bold material choices within an open-concept layout. At the heart of the space, a custom kitchen island provides ample prep space, seating, and storage, creating a natural gathering point for family and guests.
Custom cabinetry offers both organization and aesthetic appeal, blending seamlessly with mixed materials such as natural stone countertops and sleek finishes. Every element was carefully selected to create a kitchen that is both practical for everyday use and visually striking, with design details that elevate the space into a true centerpiece of the home.

Welcome to the epitome of modern elegance - a contemporary guest home remodel that seamlessly blends luxury, style, and functionality. Our latest project showcases a masterful transformation, featuring a captivating palette of design elements that redefine sophistication.
The walls of the bathroom have been adorned with turquoise fish scale wall tiles, creating a visually stunning focal point. The intricate pattern and vibrant hue of the tiles evoke a sense of underwater tranquility, transforming the space into a sanctuary of relaxation.
**Drop-In Tub:**
A centerpiece of indulgence, the drop-in tub invites you to immerse yourself in a world of serenity. Its sleek design and comfortable contours redefine the bathing experience, offering a perfect balance between modern aesthetics and timeless comfort. Get ready to unwind in the embrace of luxury.
**Brass Fixtures:**
Elevating the entire space are the exquisite brass fixtures that add a touch of opulence to every corner. The fixtures, with their warm and lustrous finish, complement the turquoise tiles beautifully, creating a harmonious symphony of colors and textures. The choice of brass introduces a timeless and sophisticated element to the contemporary design.
**Retail Vanity:**
Completing the ensemble is a meticulously selected retail vanity that seamlessly combines functionality with style. The vanity not only serves as a practical storage solution but also contributes to the overall aesthetic with its clean lines and modern design. Its contrasting elements add depth to the space, creating a perfect balance of form and function.
In conclusion, this contemporary guest home remodel is a testament to the art of thoughtful design. The turquoise fish scale wall tile, drop-in tub, brass fixtures, and retail vanity come together to create an oasis of luxury and sophistication. Step into a world where every detail has been carefully curated to provide a truly exceptional and memorable experience. Welcome to a space where modernity meets indulgence, and comfort meets style.

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

Revamping the laundry room brings a blend of functionality and style to an often-overlooked space. Upgrading appliances to energy-efficient models enhances efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
Custom cabinetry and shelving solutions maximize storage for detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry essentials, promoting an organized and clutter-free environment. Consideration of ergonomic design, such as a folding counter or ironing station, streamlines tasks and adds a touch of convenience.
Thoughtful lighting choices, perhaps with LED fixtures or natural light sources, contribute to a bright and inviting atmosphere. Flooring upgrades for durability, such as water-resistant tiles or easy-to-clean materials, can withstand the demands of laundry tasks.
Ultimately, a remodeled laundry room not only elevates its practical functionality but also transforms it into a well-designed, efficient space that makes the often-dreaded chore of laundry a more pleasant experience.

Provided by 'Ancient Surfaces'
Product name: Antique Thick Limestone Countertops, AKA Foundation Slabs .
Phone: (212) 461-0245
Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com
Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com
Direct: www.AncientSurfaces.com/Foundation-Slabs.html
Those centuries old foundation Slabs were once the thick building blocks of old villas & farmhouses. Those blocks could be found at the bottom support base of many older reclaimed structures. We are passionate about milling them down to 2.5" in thickness so they could be used on counters and pool copings. Yes counters! Those thick & massive chucks of Limestone absorb virtually nothing and can stand up to anything you can throw at them.
Seemingly indestructible, they are ideal for anyone who is a great cook and who doesn’t want to worry about leaving wine rings, lime juice or oil stains on their counters while cooking or entertaining guests.
If you practically live in your kitchen which is true for many of us, you have no choice but to consider incorporating the foundation slabs as your kitchen counter tops.
Make your kitchen fun and enjoy the best counter tops available on earth by securing some of those slab cuts today.
Our thick Foundation Slabs are also ideal for any stepping stone design elements for your outdoors stairs, as stepping or landscaping stones, or as wall and pool copings able to withstand any weather pattern or condition.

Like their cousins in the 1800/2200 freestanding series, the 1800 series inserts offer the same tried-and-tested architecture and the same great features, including a magnificent view of the fire through the bay window. They are also equipped with a powerful blower, transforming your old, inefficient fireplace into a highly effective heating system. The 1800 series insert is both practical and elegant, and is a perfect choice for your living room or basement fireplace.

In this basement remodeling project, the homeowners desired a midcentury modern aesthetic, with a focus on transforming the stairs, refinishing the bedrooms, and creating a stylish bathroom. The staircase underwent a significant transformation by removing a wall and installing new railings, while the carpet was replaced with hardwood floors to achieve a sleek and modern look. Similarly, the bedroom carpets were removed, making way for the installation of hardwood floors, accompanied by a fresh coat of paint to update the space.
The bathroom, which was previously nonexistent, was built out and carefully designed to become a stylish and functional addition to the basement. The new tiles and unique lighting
choices added visual interest and a touch of modernity. Gold accents were incorporated throughout the bathroom, creating a luxurious and cohesive aesthetic. Sleek mirrors were added for both practicality and design, and a brand-new shower completed the transformation, offering a modern and comfortable bathing experience. The overall result of this basement remodel was a stunning midcentury modern space that successfully combined functionality with stylish design elements

Sponsored
Westerville, OH
Custom Home Works
Franklin County's Award-Winning Design, Build and Remodeling Expert

Babcock Custom Pools: Transforming Backyards into Oases with Palms
If you seek a swimming pool that boasts an interplay of aesthetics, elegance, and proficiency, then Babcock Custom Pools is the solution you have been searching for. Our pool-crafting experts boast an extensive portfolio of pool designs that have consistently surpassed our clients’ anticipations. A hallmark of our designs is the seamless integration of palms – an element we passionately incorporate into our custom creations.
At Babcock Custom Pools, we take great pride in our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Our process, from the initial consultation to the final construction, is a testament to our pursuit of excellence. Our team of experts consists of seasoned professionals who possess a passion for creating pools that not only serve their practical purpose but are also visually stunning.
Palms are a ubiquitous choice for pool landscaping, and for good reason. They add a tropical vibe to your outdoor space, and their presence imbues the area with a lush, serene atmosphere. Furthermore, palms provide the much-needed shade on a hot summer day. At Babcock Custom Pools, we wholeheartedly embrace the use of palms in our designs, and our clients rave about the results.
We appreciate the fact that each of our clients is unique, and their pool designs should be a reflection of their individuality. As such, we work closely with our clients to craft customized designs that align with their specific needs and preferences. Whether you envision a sleek, minimalist design or a more traditional aesthetic, our team will collaborate with you to create a pool that perfectly embodies your style.
When it comes to constructing pools, we use only the finest materials and the most advanced technologies. Our pools are designed to be durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, ensuring that you can spend more time relishing in the pool and less time maintaining it.
In conclusion, if you desire a custom pool design that is both beautiful and functional, Babcock Custom Pools is the answer. Our team of experts will work hand-in-hand with you to create a pool that exceeds your expectations. And, of course, we will not forget to incorporate an ample amount of palms – because we love palms and are confident that you will too. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

Kitchen Inspiration: A Perfect Blend of Timeless Metro Tiles & Harbour Oak Grey Flooring
Imagine cooking in a space that is modern, practical, and cozy all at the same time. This beautiful kitchen is a real-life inspiration from one of our clients, showcasing how to perfectly balance classic style with everyday durability.
The backsplash features the timeless elegance of classic white Metro tiles. Synonymous with Parisian elegance and retro chic, these bevelled gloss wall tiles are naturally stain-resistant and exceptionally hygienic, making them the perfect, easy-to-clean choice for a busy kitchen.
Underfoot, the space is grounded by our Harbour Oak Grey Penthouse Laminate Flooring. Engineered by KRONOTEX, these 12mm-thick, AC5-rated floorboards replicate the authentic look and weathered texture of natural oak with stunning precision. Designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, they offer outstanding durability and up to 24 hours of spill resistance—giving you the luxury of real wood without the high maintenance or worry of moisture damage.
Love this look for your next renovation project? Come design your dream kitchen with us! We deliver straight to your door, anywhere in Ireland.
Featured Products:
Floor: Harbour Oak Grey Penthouse Laminate Flooring (12mm, AC5)
Walls: White Rectangular Bevelled Metro Tiles

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered.
Before: Larkhall Crescent Home:
Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative.
Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind.
After: Warm & Cozy Family Room:
Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen.
Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible.
Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston.
We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice.
Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking…
Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living:
This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends.
On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise…
A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard.
To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated.
Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting.
Praise from Our Clients:
It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say?
“Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations.
Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!”
In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)
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