Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in Milwaukee

Miss Frugal Fancy Pants
Beach style home design photo in Tampa

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

LiMO” introduces you lively style, which is designed not only for children! Collection LiMO offers you colourful, usefull and practical furniture, which was designed according to nowadays trends and fashion in worldwide furniture market. Our collection suits perfectly for your children in every age: pre-school period, durig the school or even after school as well. Furniture from LiMO collecton will fit well in any place in your house, as it will bring a drop of freshness and energy wherever it will be placed.All LiMO’s furniture has recognizable feature – painted inserts, which are made from solid beech.

Huge storage cabinets and a side by side front load washer/dryer make for a practical and useful laundry space. Ample counter above the machines allows folding clothing, and full-height cabinet storage accommodates a vast array of utility room needs. White shaker cabinets are detailed with dark pulls and barrel hinges as a throw-back to old-school carpenter-built cabinetry.

„LiMO” introduces you lively style, which is designed not only for children! Collection LiMO offers you colourful, usefull and practical furniture, which was designed according to nowadays trends and fashion in worldwide furniture market. Our collection suits perfectly for your children in every age: pre-school period, durig the school or even after school as well. Furniture from LiMO collecton will fit well in any place in your house, as it will bring a drop of freshness and energy wherever it will be placed.All LiMO’s furniture has recognizable feature – painted inserts, which are made from solid beech.

This dining room turned playroom turned homework/music room has a collected feel to it. Beautiful grasscloth walls, a soft warm gray and textured white curtains provide a neutral backdrop to fun pops of color. A reupholstered cane wingback in a funky colorful pattern, an antique Canadian Public School chair, a gallery wall filled with all sorts of treasured and DIY items, layered rugs and Louis ghost chairs all work together to give this space a unique, collected vibe. It reflects the vibrant spirit of the homeowners that won't be pinned down to just one style. Scott Lawrence Photography

photography by Anice Hoachlander
Inspiration for a large modern master gray tile gray floor alcove bathtub remodel in DC Metro with gray walls

Photo: Alexandra Crafton © 2016 Houzz
This is an example of a cottage porch design in Louisville.

Drawer in kitchen for electronics and charger storage
Example of a small cottage medium tone wood floor home design design in Dallas with shaker cabinets, white cabinets and granite countertops

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Welcome to a culinary haven where contemporary sophistication meets practical design in this custom kitchen adorned with soaring 10 ft ceilings. The modern ambiance is immediately apparent, with sleek Shaker-style doors painted in a bold, elegant black, creating a striking contrast against the expansive height of the room. The kitchen is not merely a cooking space; it's a statement of style and functionality. A walk-in butler's pantry offers an abundance of storage and organizational possibilities, ensuring that every culinary tool and ingredient has its designated place. This pantry is seamlessly integrated into the kitchen layout, allowing for easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean, uncluttered appearance. At the heart of the kitchen stands a spacious working island, its sleek black surface providing a chic and durable workspace. This island is designed for efficiency, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a seamless and enjoyable experience. Adjacent to the working island, a stylish dining island beckons, featuring exquisite waterfall countertops that cascade gracefully to the floor. This design not only adds a touch of luxury but also serves as an inviting space for casual dining and entertaining guests. The smooth, uninterrupted surface of the waterfall countertops enhances the modern aesthetic, while the choice of gold-colored handles and knobs adds a touch of opulence to the overall design. Emphasizing the kitchen's commitment to customization and luxury, the appliances seamlessly blend into the cabinetry. The panel-ready fridge maintains the sleek, uniform appearance of the kitchen, ensuring that the focus remains on the design elements rather than the machinery. Crowning this culinary masterpiece is a custom wood hood, adding a touch of warmth and organic texture to the predominantly modern setting. This thoughtful integration of natural materials creates a harmonious balance between contemporary aesthetics and timeless appeal. In this custom kitchen with its high ceilings, modern Shaker-style doors, black color palette, and opulent gold accents, culinary enthusiasts are invited to elevate their cooking experience in an environment where functionality meets exquisite design.

Nearly everything you see in the house is from the recycling centre,” says Begg, laughing. The local community runs a trading website, where people can free-cycle unwanted furniture. Being in the heart of South Island ski-country, with plenty of sheep stations near by, meant that Begg was practically duty-bound to lavish her furniture with deer hides and shaggy Scandi-style sheepskins. She stayed with natural textures – wool loop-pile carpet that looks like sisal, linen upholstery and curtains – and then layered on her favourite Middle Eastern cushions and rugs.

BISTRO BOTANICA Vintage kitchen charm, with a tropical twist. DESIGN DESCRIPTION This space pairs the nostalgic charm of an Old World kitchen with a breath of tropical whimsy. Soft aqua Shaker cabinetry, detailed with crossbuck uppers and open shelving, wraps the room in calm, cheerful colour. A dramatic watercolour mural of lush leaves and golden cockatoos turns one wall into a garden, while a marble-topped bistro table and bentwood stools create an inviting spot for morning coffee. Black-and-white hexagon tile, a stainless farmhouse sink and dark matte countertops ground the palette. Swing-arm sconces, vintage-inspired glass ceiling lights and diamond-paned windows add a final layer of character. The result is joyful, timeless and full of personality.