This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room. The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth. A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility. Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

At the present level of development of the concept of "quality" is considered as a complex component, which includes the quality of the final product, the quality of management, quality of deliveries or work, the quality of life of people (employees) and society as a whole. Quality management is coordinated and interconnected management activities, which was built in such a way as to ensure safe and smooth operation of the organization. Organization Management, with regard to quality means that all activity is subject to the objectives set for quality, and to achieve these goals, the organization has developed a system of plans, have the necessary resources, carried out actions to achieve their goals. Quality management - a very important element for any business. After all, quality is one of the criteria of the high popularity of a brand among consumers. Besides good quality will save the company from warranty repairs, lawsuits, etc. Quality management includes four basic components: • quality control; • quality assurance; • quality planning; • quality improvement. There are 8 basic principles of quality management system: • The principle of orientation to the user. Product success primarily depends on how the user takes it. Moreover, this principle directs the company to study the needs of its customers. • The principle of leadership or leadership role. Quality management in the first place depends directly on the company's management, which should by their actions show his concern for the produced goods, on its quality. • The principle of staff involvement. From more - in less. If the head of the company must set an example in their interest in the quality of products, the company and each employee must also work to improve the quality of products and must want to improve it. • The principle of the process approach. Based on the division of the company to suppliers and consumers. Suppliers - material security that comes into the company, and which must comply with certain quality. Consumers - the product, which is depending on the materials, must be of good quality. Because this is a direct product of your company. • The principle of the system approach. It combines two previously identified types of organization in the common system. Moreover, he claims that this system should be a common goal, and general management. • The principle of continuous improvement. Or to put it in simple words - "There is no limit to perfection." The principle involves constant monitoring of the quality of products in order to improve it. • The principle of decision-making based on facts. It implies that all decisions will be taken by research, scientific evidence, public opinion polls, and not on an intuitive level head. • Mutually beneficial supplier relationships. It's simple - the supplier delivers you high-quality materials and receives respective payment. The lower the quality of the goods, the less the cost. • It is believed that the introduction of these 8 principles in any company will improve the quality of its products and the improvement of the production process. That, in turn, affect the overall good of the company success. About Author: Anna Lynch is a freelance writer at http://online-check-in.org/, who creates papers about business and marketing. She has a long practice and great experience in the sphere of economics and now is able to help young people.

Photography by Caryn B. Davis Located in the Cornfield Point area of Old Saybrook along Long Island Sound, this project brought a classic, yet forgotten beach house back to life. Through a little detective work and some creative ingenuity, we restored and enhanced the exterior to it’s former glory and transformed the interior to a highly efficient and functional home all the while uplifting its quaint cottage charm. On the exterior, we recreated a wonderful, airy front porch with cozy bench seats that look out to the water. The white cedar shingle siding is pre-bleached with a subtle flair at the bottom and a delicate break at mid-elevation. The asphalt shingles are not only beautifully matched with the siding, but offer superior reflective qualities to dissipate the heat of the summer sun. On the interior, we joined the front seasonal porch with the family room to form a larger, open living and dining space with paneled walls and ceilings anchored by the original round stone fireplace. In the rear, we carefully crafted a galley kitchen and laundry space with an adjacent first floor master suite. The diminutive house and property posed multiple practical and regulatory challenges which were overcome by a strong team effort, due diligence, and a commitment to the process. John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation. We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

BEFORE - The primary objective of this project was to enhance the layout of the ground floor and expand the kitchen area. Similar to many single-family cottages constructed before the 2010s, the typical ground floor layout consisted of a kitchen, formal living room, formal dining room, dinette, vestibule, and a den. However, in recent years, the demand for formal spaces has waned while the desire for larger and more practical kitchens has significantly increased. To achieve this goal, we embarked on a project that involved demolishing the wall separating the existing kitchen from the formal dining room. This allowed us to expand the kitchen into the former formal dining room space. We relocated the dining room to what was previously the formal living room, effectively eliminating the need for a formal living room. The result is a new kitchen with significantly enhanced storage and prep areas, making it much more functional.

Here are some practical tips for creating a beautiful, comfortable and thoughtful living room design. The living room in the house is the place where, as the name suggests, receives guests. However, the owners themselves relax here, spending time in front of the TV or a book, with drinks, pleasant conversation and other activities. Therefore, the living room should be the most comfortable place in your home. The place of the sofa in the design of the living room The sofa does not need to be placed in a draft. This means that it should not be on an imaginary line from window to door - if you drew a floor plan, it will just be easy to trace. 1. The sofa in front of the TV, diagonally from the door, is a great location. As if inviting you to sit down :) 2. Sofa near the door. A good solution if you often have overnight guests. 3. Corner sofa in the living room. Best placed in the farthest corner from the door. This will make the room look more spacious. Correct opening of the door in the living room. Inward or outward? Open inward or outward? There is no clear rule here, because everything depends on the layout and on the furniture placed. The main thing is that the door leaf opens freely and does not interfere with entering and exiting the room. Also, the door should not interfere with free access to the closet or dressing room. TV in living room size and location. Location. The TV is placed on the wall opposite to the sofa - this is the most logical and reasonable place for it in the living room. Moreover, the distance to it does not really matter: modern TV models can be placed close to the sofa. Cabinet or bracket? To your taste. The main thing is that the television zone looks neat and presentable. Provide in advance a cable channel in which all the wires and numerous sockets for the receiver, modem, set-top box, sound bar will hide. Nothing spoils a design like sticking wires! Height from the floor. It is optimal to place the TV 1 m from the floor to the middle of the screen - this is exactly the level of the eyes of a seated person. Diagonal size. If there is a financial opportunity, consider options from 50 inches - smaller screens look lonely and lonely on an empty wall. Living room furniture. Armchair. Often the chair becomes an accent item in the interior, then its shade, and sometimes its shape, differ from the rest of the furniture. When choosing a chair, be guided also by your habits: for example, it will be more convenient to climb up with your feet and read a book in an armchair with dimensions of 90x90 cm, and you can “just sit comfortably” in a fireplace chair with a high back, comfortable armrests and with a seat 80x80 cm. TV stand. Large TV stands are no longer as relevant as they used to be, when it was necessary to store a player, cassettes and discs there. For now, a console table or a narrow elegant pedestal is enough. Coffee table. Nice piece of furniture that creates a cozy atmosphere. Some models, if necessary, can be transformed into a more spacious table for receiving guests - however, finding comfortable and beautiful specimens is not easy, plus they usually cost a lot. Rack. An extremely useful type of furniture. :) Firstly, a large number of decor items can be beautifully placed on the rack. And secondly, it can also play the role of a light through partition, which divides the room into zones and does not select light at the same time. This is a very big plus for small apartments. Fireplace. Here we are talking about electric fireplaces. Some of them come with a humidifier and heated, so 3-in-1 models can be very helpful. Fireplace portals have different styles: classic, antique, modern. Inconsistency with the general style of the living room can greatly spoil the impression of the room, so be careful with creativity. Sizing is an important issue. A large wall with a high ceiling also needs a proportionate fireplace; in horror, a small portal will look lonely and ridiculous. What do you think about our new living room project? https://www.ferriss.co #ferriss #We_bring_objects_to_life #3drendering #architecture #San_Francisco

The Carmen Solid Pine Wood TV Stand brings natural pine warmth, metal strength, and practical drawer storage into living rooms, offices, and lounge spaces. Handcrafted from high-quality solid pine wood with strong metal parts, it combines an industrial look with everyday functionality for organizing media devices, decor, books, and daily-use items. Available in length options from 47" to 79", with a 16" depth and 22" height, Carmen can fit both compact rooms and wider entertainment walls. Its drawer section adds hidden storage, while the open horizontal surface provides space for media units and decorative objects. Multiple size and wood finish options make it suitable for industrial, rustic-modern, farmhouse, minimalist, Scandinavian, and warm contemporary interiors.

Project Details Lake home features traditional cottage theme with a combination of stone, stucco and shake siding. Features include custom red wood garage doors, special order Marvin front entry system and custom alder cabinetry. The most unique part of this home was the butler’s pantry housing an extra refrigerator, dishwasher and pantry storage. Client Objectives The homeowners were looking for a contractor that could help them convert their dreams a building a practice lake home, ideal for the pro fisherman on Lake Minnetonka into reality. They wanted a cozy home for family gatherings while also keeping the ability for resale an option. “I waited several years to find the right time and the right lot to build my lake home. After interviewing several contractors I turned to Jeff because he was able to take the plans that I had spent years working on and design something that fit my needs while also keep an eye on resale. I was impressed with his expertise and knowledge of Orono’s zoning regulations. In the end, we partnered together to build the lake home of my dreams.”

Ovature Studios is the collaboration between a Swedish art practice and New York creative agency. Through a combination of expertise and passion we create beautiful, collectable lighting objects for the world. We are inspired by organic forms and curious about the subtle changes in repetition found in nature. No two stones, leaves, or fingerprints, are the same. Our principal mediums are rich metals like brass and bronze. We believe that Luxury is a product and a process. Our standards are high, so each piece is handmade and individually assembled from our Swedish workshop. This grants the required attention for perfection, and allows for the complete customization of any piece. We work with reputable shipping partners around the world to ensure safe and timely deliveries with the utmost care.

Kandinsky throw pillow - The colors in this abstract composition, reminiscent of the work of influential Russian artist, Wassily Kandinsky, evoke a psychic vibration, hiding a power still unknown but deeply felt in every part of the body. The expert Kashmiri needlework in this handmade, hand worked pillow cover is of the finest chainstitch crewel, a superlative stitch. The eye-catching design deserves to be seen and experienced. Wherever you place it, it is sure to draw attention. The Kashmir wool thread makes it soft to the touch, and the texture of the embroidery is a sensory delight. Durable and easily cared for, this cover has a back button opening for easy accessibility. Composition: 70% Wool, 30% Cotton Size: 18' x 18' (45 cms x 45 cms) Pillow Insert not Included (Only Cover is on Sale) Hand embroidered in Village Cottage Units Backing: Canvas (See the Last Picture) A close-up view of this abstract pillow cover allows you to see the amazing chain-stitch embroidery work of master artisans who have practiced this art their entire lives.This abstract decorative pillow cover could grace the cabin of your boat or the chair in your solarium and yet be equally as comfortable in your den. The eye-popping color and pattern of this modern throw pillow are just what the designer ordered to create a fiery focal point in your decor. Perfect wherever you need a splash of color, this artwork pillow creation is as durable as it is beautiful. Easy to care for, this cushion cover could spark up an old throw pillow or grace a new pillow form. Kandinsky conveyed profound spirituality and inner human emotion through a visual language of abstract forms and colors that transcended cultural and physical boundaries. He used interrelation between color and form to create an aesthetic experience that engaged the sight, sound, and emotions of the viewer. Kandinsky viewed music as the most transcendent form of non-objective art musicians could evoke images in listeners‚ minds merely with sounds. He crafted spiritually rich paintings that alluded to sounds and emotions through sensations. Modern Artist Wassily Kandinsky used the form of concentric circles to portray the soul. Rendered here as chain stitch embroidery in wool, this cushion cover can create a new personality for any room in which you choose to use it. The eye-popping color and pattern of this modern throw pillow are just what the designer ordered to create a fiery focal point in your decor. Perfect wherever you need a splash of color, this artwork pillow creation is as durable as it is beautiful. Easy to care for, this cushion cover could spark up an old throw pillow or grace a new pillow form.

We helped Miki and David successfully execute a bathroom and kitchen remodel for their Co-op in New York City. The primary objective was to enhance the sense of space, functionality, and style while keeping the project on track and on budget. To kickstart the project, Anna, the highly skilled project planner, conducted a thorough walkthrough with Miki and David. During the meeting, she captured their vision, outlined a realistic timeline, and carefully considered their budgetary restrictions. Anna made sure to grasp their aspirations of modernizing the kitchen and bathroom, aiming to elevate both the aesthetics and practicality while incorporating a bespoke design tailored to their desires. The design challenge was to modernize the outdated kitchen and bathroom while maintaining a budget-friendly approach. The clients opted for a Scandinavian style, featuring neutral olive green colors, stone, and natural wood materials. The designers explored various layouts to maximize functionality and accommodate the clients' preferences, providing Miki and David with multiple options. Eventually, the family made their design choices and felt assured as they entered the construction phase. During the building phase, the construction team completed a gut renovation of the kitchen and bathroom, replacing ceilings, walls, floors, and all fixtures. The result was a stunning custom kitchen designed in the Scandinavian style featuring matte grey-green cabinetry, natural wood open shelving, a built-in pantry and appliances, and Vivid White Quartz countertops. The combination of sage base cabinets with grey undertones and modern, natural wood structures created a neutral and earthy impression, while the smooth white wall cabinets and countertops added a sleek and airy touch to the space. The bathroom renovation encompassed a full remodel, with all fixtures being replaced. A custom-ordered vanity in a matching grey-green shade was installed, along with the Maiolica White Polished Ceramic Wall Tile and Kohler and Delta fixtures. Within a few short weeks, Miki and David's new kitchen and bathroom were transformed to align perfectly with their style and vision, while significantly enhancing functionality.

The primary objective of this project was to enhance the layout of the ground floor and expand the kitchen area. Similar to many single-family cottages constructed before the 2010s, the typical ground floor layout consisted of a kitchen, formal living room, formal dining room, dinette, vestibule, and a den. However, in recent years, the demand for formal spaces has waned while the desire for larger and more practical kitchens has significantly increased. To achieve this goal, we embarked on a project that involved demolishing the wall separating the existing kitchen from the formal dining room. This allowed us to expand the kitchen into the former formal dining room space. We relocated the dining room to what was previously the formal living room, effectively eliminating the need for a formal living room. The result is a new kitchen with significantly enhanced storage and prep areas, making it much more functional.

Project Objectives: Reconfigure interior layouts to maximize space utilization and flow. Introduce contemporary fixtures and smart appliances for an upgraded lifestyle. Focus on sustainable building practices to enhance energy efficiency. Redesign outdoor living areas to complement the home’s modern aesthetic. Complete renovations within a predetermined timeline and budget, following strict compliance standards.

Project Details Lake home features traditional cottage theme with a combination of stone, stucco and shake siding. Features include custom red wood garage doors, special order Marvin front entry system and custom alder cabinetry. The most unique part of this home was the butler’s pantry housing an extra refrigerator, dishwasher and pantry storage. Client Objectives The homeowners were looking for a contractor that could help them convert their dreams a building a practice lake home, ideal for the pro fisherman on Lake Minnetonka into reality. They wanted a cozy home for family gatherings while also keeping the ability for resale an option. “I waited several years to find the right time and the right lot to build my lake home. After interviewing several contractors I turned to Jeff because he was able to take the plans that I had spent years working on and design something that fit my needs while also keep an eye on resale. I was impressed with his expertise and knowledge of Orono’s zoning regulations. In the end, we partnered together to build the lake home of my dreams.”

A display unit built with an emphasis on composition. The client was less interested in something practical and chose instead an arrangement that allows him to show some of his favoured objects and becomes the focus of the space. Concept by Doina Serban who was somewhat inspired by Piet Mondrian.

The Eliseo Contemporary Dining Table will create a luxurious and modern atmosphere while serving all practical intents. Made in Italy by Tonin Casa, Eliseo Designer Dining Table is a true furnishing object with function, beauty and style.

A substantial installation of 82 yards of fabric was used to create a continuous wall of functional drapery panels, introducing both scale and softness to the space. The refined pattern subtly incorporates the room’s wall color while weaving in the established blue and green palette, ensuring a cohesive and layered visual narrative. This extensive use of custom drapery enhances acoustics, adds movement, and brings a tailored, couture-level finish to the interior. A quietly textured, custom area rug grounds the television viewing area, anchoring the sofa and defining the seating zone with understated elegance. Its muted coloring allows the surrounding furnishings and architectural elements to take precedence while providing warmth and comfort underfoot. An oversized ottoman, reupholstered in a soft grey faux shagreen, introduces a durable yet luxurious surface that balances practicality with refined texture. Its generous scale supports multifunctional use in this busy family space, while the material choice ensures easy maintenance without compromising on sophisticated design. Together, these elements create a harmonious living environment where comfort, performance, and elevated design coexist seamlessly.

I have a thing for designing and stylizing built ins! I love how they are a practical storage solution, neatly being tucked in between two walls, yet offer the opportunity to showcase beautiful decorations, photos and book collections! The unexpected detail; the dark gray backdrop, allowing the objects to pop even more.

At times, the most remarkable spaces emerge when we begin with a clean slate. In this particular project, we had the privilege to design a completely custom home, starting from scratch for our client. They simply entrusted us with a piece of land, and from that point forward, we handled everything. Our primary objective for this project was to craft an exceptional, contemporary, and practical dream home for a family of four. By creatively manipulating height variations at the front of the house, we conceived the standout element of the home: the impressive windows that showcase the bespoke steel spinal staircase.

The Poul Henningsen designed PH Bow Piano is a radical departure from the expectation of how a wooden-cased piano should be presented. It was Poul Henningsen’s innate belief that when designing a piece of furniture form should always follow function and that the practical performance of his creation was of paramount importance. PH also believed that it was possible to redesign many everyday objects and pieces of furniture in such away that not only would they function better but they would also be more aesthetically pleasing. The PH Bow Piano is no exception to this philosophy.