Enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of built-in units can be achieved by thoughtfully incorporating accessories. Consider adding adjustable shelving to accommodate items of varying heights, maximizing storage potential. Incorporating built-in lighting can create a visually appealing ambiance and highlight displayed items. Drawer organizers and dividers help maintain order, ensuring that every item has its designated place. Additionally, incorporating decorative hardware such as stylish handles or knobs can impart a personalized touch. For entertainment units, cable management systems contribute to a clean and organized appearance. Whether it's baskets, bins, or pull-out trays, accessorizing built-in units not only elevates their practicality but also allows for a customized and well-organized space that aligns with both form and function.

The one-story contemporary overlooking a lake and bird sanctuary was a retirement dream - open spaces, expansive views and plenty of room to host grandchildren. While the location was ideal, the home needed help - especially the kitchen as it was dark and confining. Walls were removed and doorways expanded to ensure the kitchen would be the center of activity. The dining table was placed in front of the window and a skylight added bringing in sunlight. We offered our clients practical solutions for storage and space planning. Specific items needed to be accessible and handy to suit their lifestyle. Based on their valued input, we added tall pull-out pantry units and cabinets with “hidden” drawers. Storage was strategically positioned for easy drop off and pick up as our clients came and went. Dark-stained cherry cabinets and light quartz countertops provided the sharp contemporary contrast favored by our homeowners. After much collaboration, discussion, and careful planning, they are enjoying their remodeled home and kitchen where we know they will create lasting memories in their lakeside retirement retreat.

We transformed this steep backyard in Sherman Oaks into a tiered outdoor space built for entertaining, relaxing, and everyday family use. The new landscape layout features level steps, retaining walls, and multiple usable areas, making moving through the yard easier and safer. Two lower tiers include built-in bench seating, space for outdoor dining, and a fire pit area surrounded by natural stone and paving. Lush lawn sections, planted garden beds, curved walkways, and low garden lighting help soften the steep gradient while keeping the backyard practical, welcoming, and easy to enjoy throughout the day and evening. Backyard Transformation in Sherman Oaks CA - https://www.magnoliaoutdoors.net/backyard-transformation/

This bespoke fitted home study and office is an exquisite multifunctional space with a dedicated workspace, media unit and library. The cabinets were custom-made and installed by us to create a superbly practical and stylish room for working, studying, gaming and watching films or TV. Our art and book-loving client commissioned Bespoke by Acorn to bring their design vision to life and the result is a stunning interior featuring built-in bookcases, a bespoke dual desk and decorative wall panels. The vertical slatted oak wood panelling provides visual interest and texture while also helping to absorb unwanted noise. DARK BLUE PAINTED BOOKCASE UNIT The bookcase cabinetry has a spraypainted finish in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue, a premium quality, eco-friendly paint. This deep blue colour is often used in study or library spaces as it is associated with focus, calm and seriousness. Dark blue is a sophisticated shade for bookcases, creating a strong contrast with the book spines. Integrated LED lighting within the joinery prevents the space from being too dark and adds dimension and richness to the display. Illuminating shelving also makes it easier to find what you’re looking for. MADE TO MEASURE DESK IN OAK FOR TWO The large made to measure desk in oak for two features wide smooth-closing drawers and plenty of cupboard and shelving space. It’s perfectly designed for comfortable side by side working and videogaming. Cabling is neatly concealed behind a back panel under the desk. A simple push to open mechanism provides easy access. While technology is essential for productivity, cables, equipment and sockets can look untidy and impose on a design scheme. With bespoke furniture, as shown here, technology can be elegantly concealed with easy access. CREATE A BESPOKE LUXURY HOME OFFICE STUDY WITH ACORN At Acorn, we specialise in crafting bespoke fitted home study, office and library furniture for clients in Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. With our custom-made furniture you will be able to have the perfect layout and features you need.

Vance & Aubrie's guest bathroom showcased an era gone by. The centerpiece was an old vanity, wrapped in dated tile. They reached out to us to help achieve their goal of creating a beautiful and welcoming space for their guests. They selected a new Kohler Archer tub to replace the outdated bathtub, pairing it with stylish Volakas Porcelain tile. For the wall niche, the Iceberg Blend Herringbone Mosaic adds a sophisticated contrast that compliments their new flooring, also installed in a herringbone pattern. The decision to install a new Kohler Cimarron toilet and added a wall cabinet above it addressing the practical storage needs. The lighting and vanity area was uninspiring, doing little to make the space welcoming or functional for guests. Vance and Aubrie went with Waypoint Painted Linen cabinetry, topped with a Forte Quartz countertop. Vilamonte bathroom faucets were chosen for their contemporary design and fantastic pairing with the Jeffrey Alexander Boswell cabinet handles. The rectangular metal framed mirrors and Mencino black steel lights brought the whole design together, creating an inviting and elegant space. Now, stepping into Vance & Aubrie's guest bathroom feels like entering a different world. The blend of modern fixtures, elegant finishes, and thoughtful details has created a space that's not only visually stunning but also highly functional.

This transitional kitchen remodel in Downingtown, Pennsylvania was designed to create a bright, open gathering space that blends classic cabinetry with modern functionality. Completed by Craftsworth Construction, this Chester County kitchen renovation transformed the existing layout into a spacious open-concept kitchen and living area ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. At the center of the design is a large custom kitchen island with seating, topped with durable quartz countertops that provide generous prep space while serving as a natural gathering point for family and guests. The island features warm wood cabinetry that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding white shaker cabinets, adding depth and balance to the kitchen’s overall design. Perimeter cabinetry extends to the ceiling with crown molding and glass transom cabinets, maximizing storage while maintaining a clean, architectural look. Sleek black cabinet hardware and modern lantern-style pendant lighting above the island introduce subtle contrast and help define the kitchen’s transitional style. The backsplash features a detailed marble mosaic tile pattern that adds texture and visual interest while complementing the neutral palette of the kitchen. A custom wood-accent range hood creates a focal point along the cooking wall, blending seamlessly with the cabinetry and natural finishes throughout the space. Stainless steel appliances, a modern workstation sink, and under-cabinet lighting enhance both the functionality and the everyday usability of the kitchen. Large windows bring natural light into the space, highlighting the bright cabinetry, quartz surfaces, and warm hardwood flooring that flows throughout the open-concept layout. Adjacent to the kitchen, the renovation connects seamlessly to the dining and living areas, creating a cohesive main floor living space that feels welcoming and highly functional for modern family life. The finished result is a luxury transitional kitchen renovation that balances timeless design with modern comfort, creating a space that feels both elegant and practical. This project was completed by Craftsworth Construction, a kitchen remodeling contractor serving Downingtown, West Chester, and homeowners throughout Chester County and Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Judy & Wendy had plans to renovate their narrow master bathroom for optimal space utilization and improved functionality. They envisioned incorporating various features to elevate the overall design. They sought to create a space that reflected their style yet met their practical requirements. With the help of our designer, they were able to select the perfect items to bring their vision to life. They opted to keep the layout, but a custom shower was built and a free-standing soaking tub were added and completed with a Delta Trinsic tub filler and shower fixtures. The walls around the tub were tiled with Reside Brown Matte Porcelain tile, while the entire floor was finished with City Life Beige Porcelain tile. The new shower that has a stylish combination of Reside Brown Matte Porcelain and Cemento Rasato Bianco Porcelain tiles on the wall. The shower walls were complimented with Moroccan Habitat Moroccan Mix Ceramic tile accent in the wall niche. The Adessi Sundance II Hexagon Porcelain Mosaic tile on the shower floor completes their gorgeous new shower.

This renovation focused on improving flow, function, and safety for a growing family with a newborn, while also enhancing the home’s exterior presence. Inside, interior walls were removed to open up the main living areas, creating better sightlines, improved natural light, and a more connected layout for everyday family life. The reconfigured space feels brighter, more spacious, and better suited to modern living. Two bathrooms were renovated as part of the project: A powder room was updated with clean, modern finishes and luxury vinyl flooring, chosen for its durability, comfort underfoot, and easy maintenance. The main bathroom was refreshed to balance practicality with a refined, timeless look. Special attention was given to the stairway, where upgrades were made with safety and comfort in mind—an important consideration for a household with a newborn. Improved finishes and details help make this high-traffic area both functional and visually cohesive with the rest of the home. The project also included exterior improvements, enhancing curb appeal and tying the updated interior to a refreshed, cohesive exterior look. Overall, this renovation blends thoughtful planning, durable materials, and family-friendly design to create a home that works beautifully now and well into the future.

Design Builders & Remodeling is a one stop shop operation. From the start, design solutions are strongly rooted in practical applications and experience. Project planning takes into account the realities of the construction process and mindful of your established budget. All the work is centralized in one firm reducing the chances of costly or time consuming surprises. A solid partnership with solid professionals to help you realize your dreams for a new or improved home.

The Home Nestled in Jackson Ranch, Thurston House welcomes you to experience the solace and comfort of this warm and peaceful home. As you step past the barnwood accented exterior, you enter a refined rustic interior with a barnwood wall and century-old beams gracing the great room. Durable, luxury, vinyl, tile flooring leads you further in, past a front office with ample sunlight. Relax as you gaze upon the Front Range, through the pines, from the great room - while a wood-burning fire crackles nearby. Continue into the spacious kitchen, complete with custom cabinets and more amazing views. An expansive walk-in pantry gives way to an oversized garage, a builder and hobbyist’s dream space. Steps away from the kitchen, the master bedroom envelops you, providing those awe-inspiring views, while balancing privacy in the pines. Whether you seek to entertain or to escape, the downstairs of Thurston House delivers. The stairs open to a lounge, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and abundant screen space, while a wet bar is tucked away for close conversation. Additional bedrooms offer comfort and privacy for overnight guests. A home gym leads to the privacy of your backyard among the pines, with mountain views to motivate you. The Builder Custom Design Builders (CDB) provides a relational partnership aimed at building the home that exists in your mind. Founder and president, Ben Woody, draws on the practical creativity of his nearly 30 years of construction experience, along with the safety consciousness he acquired as a firefighter. Ben is skillful at building according to your desires, incorporating a thoughtful design that balances safety and functionality in a dynamic process. CDB relies on the expertise acquired from years of building partnerships with the most reliable tradesmen in the area. Our team of partners consistently delivers the highest quality products and services, which has helped drive our exponential growth via word-of-mouth referrals. As a family-owned and operated business, CDB understands relationships. Engaging in a partnership with CDB is to take on an active role in designing and defining your project, while relying on the comfort and security that can only come from decades of experience. The Interior Design Thurston House brings a feeling of warmth, comfort and hospitality. Modern accents elevate your living experience by highlighting the character of century-old, hand-hewn beams and barnwood. A luxurious freestanding bathtub and Euro-style shower in the master bathroom encourage you to relax and recharge in your own spa-like retreat. Energy efficient HVAC and water systems, appliances and windows minimize your footprint. Durable flooring offers stability and longevity, and hand trowel-finished drywall with reclaimed wood accents provide a warm background for your life. The open floor plan lends itself to entertaining, and the views of the Front Range through the pines are enticing. These same spaces also feel private and individual. Whether training in the home gym for your next marathon, building your dream canoe in the garage, or relaxing while you listen to the crackle of a fire in your fireplace accented by those hand-hewn beams, Thurston House is a stunning place to call home.

Completed in collaboration with Alison Hall Architect, this Spring 2025 project focused on creating a dedicated laundry space that improves both the functionality and organization of the home. The new laundry addition was carefully designed to maximize efficiency while complementing the home's existing architecture and style. Custom cabinetry, ample storage, durable surfaces, and a thoughtful layout transformed a routine household task into a more convenient and enjoyable experience. Every detail was selected to enhance usability, from optimized workspace planning to smart storage solutions that help keep the area clean and organized. The result is a bright, practical, and beautifully finished laundry room that supports the homeowners' daily needs while adding long-term value to the home.

Dark and lacking functionality, this hard working hall bathroom in Great Falls, VA had to accommodate the needs of both a teenage boy and girl. Custom cabinetry, new flooring with underlayment heat, all new bathroom fixtures and additional lighting make this a bright and practical space. Exquisite blue arabesque tiles, crystal adornments on the lighting and faucets help bring this utilitarian space to an elegant room. Designed by Laura Hildebrandt of Interiors By LH, LLC. Construction by Superior Remodeling, Inc. Cabinetry by Harrell's Professional Cabinetry. Photography by Boutique Social. DC.

The Pera Solid Walnut Wood TV Stand brings rich walnut warmth, clean mid-century lines, and practical media storage into modern living rooms. Handcrafted from premium solid walnut wood, it features a sleek low-profile silhouette, tapered legs, open shelves, and concealed compartments for organizing media devices, decor, books, and everyday essentials. Available in 60", 70", and 80" width options, with a 16" depth and 24" height, Pera is designed to work as a TV stand, media console, entertainment unit, or low storage cabinet. Its matte polyurethane finish helps resist water and minor scratches while highlighting the natural walnut grain, making it a timeless fit for mid-century modern, contemporary, Japandi, Scandinavian, and warm minimalist interiors.

Modern Citi Group helped Paul remodel his newly purchased apartment in a prime Upper East Side location. This exciting renovation project included renovation of the kitchen and dining room, bathroom, living room and bedroom. Our design team faced the challenge of balancing modern and classic aesthetics with a strict budget. After exploring multiple design options and visualizations, Paul chose a design that best suited his vision. The construction team masterfully brought the vision to life, fully remodeling each room in the apartment while preserving and revitalizing select original fixtures. The kitchen underwent a significant transformation with a reconfigured layout, featuring an additional wall of cabinets along the window wall and a wet bar in the dining room that seamlessly extended the kitchen’s footprint. These updates enhanced storage capacity, improved ergonomic functionality, and elevated the overall aesthetic. In the bedroom, the layout was redesigned to include an extra-tall closet, while the existing closet was repurposed to house a washer and dryer accessible from the hallway. The kitchen was outfitted with solid wood cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a durable porcelain tile floor. The bathroom was reimagined with luxurious new tiling, contemporary fixtures, and upgraded plumbing and lighting. A spacious double vanity was added, providing ample storage, alongside an elegant alcove bath-shower combination. Throughout the apartment, our team refinished the floors, walls, and ceilings, upgraded plumbing and electrical systems, and installed additional lighting and closet organization. These updates optimized the flow and functionality of the space. In just a few months, Modern Citi Group transformed an outdated apartment into a stunning, functional home. The remodel perfectly blends style, comfort, and practicality, reflecting the refined character of its prime Upper East Side location.

The Home Nestled in Jackson Ranch, Thurston House welcomes you to experience the solace and comfort of this warm and peaceful home. As you step past the barnwood accented exterior, you enter a refined rustic interior with a barnwood wall and century-old beams gracing the great room. Durable, luxury, vinyl, tile flooring leads you further in, past a front office with ample sunlight. Relax as you gaze upon the Front Range, through the pines, from the great room - while a wood-burning fire crackles nearby. Continue into the spacious kitchen, complete with custom cabinets and more amazing views. An expansive walk-in pantry gives way to an oversized garage, a builder and hobbyist’s dream space. Steps away from the kitchen, the master bedroom envelops you, providing those awe-inspiring views, while balancing privacy in the pines. Whether you seek to entertain or to escape, the downstairs of Thurston House delivers. The stairs open to a lounge, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and abundant screen space, while a wet bar is tucked away for close conversation. Additional bedrooms offer comfort and privacy for overnight guests. A home gym leads to the privacy of your backyard among the pines, with mountain views to motivate you. The Builder Custom Design Builders (CDB) provides a relational partnership aimed at building the home that exists in your mind. Founder and president, Ben Woody, draws on the practical creativity of his nearly 30 years of construction experience, along with the safety consciousness he acquired as a firefighter. Ben is skillful at building according to your desires, incorporating a thoughtful design that balances safety and functionality in a dynamic process. CDB relies on the expertise acquired from years of building partnerships with the most reliable tradesmen in the area. Our team of partners consistently delivers the highest quality products and services, which has helped drive our exponential growth via word-of-mouth referrals. As a family-owned and operated business, CDB understands relationships. Engaging in a partnership with CDB is to take on an active role in designing and defining your project, while relying on the comfort and security that can only come from decades of experience. The Interior Design Thurston House brings a feeling of warmth, comfort and hospitality. Modern accents elevate your living experience by highlighting the character of century-old, hand-hewn beams and barnwood. A luxurious freestanding bathtub and Euro-style shower in the master bathroom encourage you to relax and recharge in your own spa-like retreat. Energy efficient HVAC and water systems, appliances and windows minimize your footprint. Durable flooring offers stability and longevity, and hand trowel-finished drywall with reclaimed wood accents provide a warm background for your life. The open floor plan lends itself to entertaining, and the views of the Front Range through the pines are enticing. These same spaces also feel private and individual. Whether training in the home gym for your next marathon, building your dream canoe in the garage, or relaxing while you listen to the crackle of a fire in your fireplace accented by those hand-hewn beams, Thurston House is a stunning place to call home.

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

For this project, the goals were straight forward - a low energy, low maintenance home that would allow the "60 something couple” time and money to enjoy all their interests. Accessibility was also important since this is likely their last home. In the end the style is minimalist, but the raw, natural materials add texture that give the home a warm, inviting feeling. The home has R-67.5 walls, R-90 in the attic, is extremely air tight (0.4 ACH) and is oriented to work with the sun throughout the year. As a result, operating costs of the home are minimal. The HVAC systems were chosen to work efficiently, but not to be complicated. They were designed to perform to the highest standards, but be simple enough for the owners to understand and manage. The owners spend a lot of time camping and traveling and wanted the home to capture the same feeling of freedom that the outdoors offers. The spaces are practical, easy to keep clean and designed to create a free flowing space that opens up to nature beyond the large triple glazed Passive House windows. Built-in cubbies and shelving help keep everything organized and there is no wasted space in the house - Enough space for yoga, visiting family, relaxing, sculling boats and two home offices. The most frequent comment of visitors is how relaxed they feel. This is a result of the unique connection to nature, the abundance of natural materials, great air quality, and the play of light throughout the house. The exterior of the house is simple, but a striking reflection of the local farming environment. The materials are low maintenance, as is the landscaping. The siting of the home combined with the natural landscaping gives privacy and encourages the residents to feel close to local flora and fauna. Photo Credit: Leon T. Switzer/Front Page Media Group

Every kitchen remodel starts with a design idea. At Apex Kitchen and Bath LLC, we help you tie different design ideas together for a kitchen you will fall in love with. Whether you know your remodeling style or not sure where to get started, our expert team of designers will work with you to create a practical and beautiful kitchen design that matches your home’s unique style.

This bespoke fitted home study and office is an exquisite multifunctional space with a dedicated workspace, media unit and library. The cabinets were custom-made and installed by us to create a superbly practical and stylish room for working, studying, gaming and watching films or TV. Our art and book-loving client commissioned Bespoke by Acorn to bring their design vision to life and the result is a stunning interior featuring built-in bookcases, a bespoke dual desk and decorative wall panels. The vertical slatted oak wood panelling provides visual interest and texture while also helping to absorb unwanted noise. DARK BLUE PAINTED BOOKCASE UNIT The bookcase cabinetry has a spraypainted finish in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue, a premium quality, eco-friendly paint. This deep blue colour is often used in study or library spaces as it is associated with focus, calm and seriousness. Dark blue is a sophisticated shade for bookcases, creating a strong contrast with the book spines. Integrated LED lighting within the joinery prevents the space from being too dark and adds dimension and richness to the display. Illuminating shelving also makes it easier to find what you’re looking for. MADE TO MEASURE DESK IN OAK FOR TWO The large made to measure desk in oak for two features wide smooth-closing drawers and plenty of cupboard and shelving space. It’s perfectly designed for comfortable side by side working and videogaming. Cabling is neatly concealed behind a back panel under the desk. A simple push to open mechanism provides easy access. While technology is essential for productivity, cables, equipment and sockets can look untidy and impose on a design scheme. With bespoke furniture, as shown here, technology can be elegantly concealed with easy access. CREATE A BESPOKE LUXURY HOME OFFICE STUDY WITH ACORN At Acorn, we specialise in crafting bespoke fitted home study, office and library furniture for clients in Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. With our custom-made furniture you will be able to have the perfect layout and features you need.