Search results for "Pre existing challenges" in Home Design Ideas

The existing pre-cast concrete cap was removed and replaced with a new pre-cast concrete cap by AquaTerra Pools. The pool had some odd shape curves so we had to custom cut the straight pieces and make a radius turn out of them.

The challenge was to remake the kitchen using the existing cabinets and existing floor and appliances, tops and island. I made new doors and drawer fronts used existing crown added trim and undercounter lighting combined a new backsplash and cabinet pulls and put a glaze on new paint. And redesigned the existing island. A budget of $10,000.

As a designer working with existing pieces is always a challenge. However, once combined together the old and the new is what helped to create this very desired look.
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Large urban underground carpeted staircase photo in Indianapolis with gray walls and no fireplace
Large urban underground carpeted staircase photo in Indianapolis with gray walls and no fireplace

This gorgeous renovation at Barre Body Studio used SAGIREV REF #12 in a 6” width to finish the entire ceiling. From the entrance lobby, to the dance halls and change rooms, this product covers every square foot of this beautiful Studio. Salvaging the pre-existing t-bar suspension system, renovators were able to remove only the pre-existing ceiling tiles and fasten the Sagiper planks to the face of the t-bar, finishing the edges with the stylish Sagiper J-Mold.

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.”
While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting.
Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence.
The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world.
We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.
Scale
0.47 ACRES
Scope
HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN
Year
2025
Photography
Studio PYG
Architecture Renovation
Bravo Architecture
Interior Design
Miriam Moore Design Studio
Landscape Architecture
LandFluent
General Contractor
Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida
Landscape Contractor
Signature Trees & Palms
Lighting Design / Contractor
PCL Lighting

 
Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
The homeowners of this mid-century Colonial and family of four were frustrated with the layout of their existing kitchen which was a small, narrow peninsula layout but that was adjoining a large space that they could not figure out how to use. Stealing part of the unused space seemed like an easy solution, except that there was an existing transition in floor height which made that a bit tricky. The solution of bringing the floor height up to meet the height of the existing kitchen allowed us to do just that.
This solution also offered some challenges. The exterior door had to be raised which resulted in some exterior rework, and the floor transition had to happen somewhere to get out to the garage, so we ended up “pushing” it towards what is now a new mudroom and powder room area. This solution allows for a small but functional and hidden mudroom area and more private powder room situation.
Another challenge of the design was the very narrow space. To minimize issues with this, we moved the location of the refrigerator into the newly found space which gave us an L-shaped layout allowing for an island and even some shallow pantry storage. The windows over the kitchen sink were expanded in size and relocated to allow more light into the room. A breakfast table fits perfectly in the area adjacent to the existing French doors and there was even room for a small bar area that helps transition from inside to outside for entertaining. The confusing unused space now makes sense and provides functionality on a daily basis.
To help bring some calm to this busy family, a pallet of soft neutrals was chosen -- gray glass tile with a simple metal accent strip, clear modern pendant lights and a neutral color scheme for cabinetry and countertops.
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

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

Imagined and designed by Kemble Interiors and thoughtfully executed by Empire City Construction. This Pre-war building, that once was the home to the composer Irving Berlin, was given a fresh tune recently. The existing herringbone floors and wall paneling throughout the living areas and office: were exquisitely restored to their original glory. The kitchen was carefully and completely disassembled and then rebuilt with new and existing elements. The addition of new Calcutta marble countertops, a custom fabricated range hood, and installation of custom grey stained wide plank floors gave the kitchen area a fresh and elegant revamp. Three of the four bathrooms were completely transformed as well as two bathrooms to complete the entire floor renovation project.

The G Series by European Home is a natural gas burner that can be used in custom built or pre-existing fireplaces. For floor level installations, use the optional cover as shown here to hide away the controls and burner parts, for a clean look.

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.”
While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting.
Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence.
The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world.
We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.
Scale
0.47 ACRES
Scope
HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN
Year
2025
Photography
Studio PYG
Architecture Renovation
Bravo Architecture
Interior Design
Miriam Moore Design Studio
Landscape Architecture
LandFluent
General Contractor
Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida
Landscape Contractor
Signature Trees & Palms
Lighting Design / Contractor
PCL Lighting

Garage addition with elevator--the challenge, as always, is integrating the addition with the existing structure. Xpand nailed it--pun intended!
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis

Garage addition with elevator--the challenge, as always, is integrating the addition with the existing structure. Xpand nailed it--pun intended!
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis

Lincoln Farmhouse
LEED-H Platinum, Net-Positive Energy
OVERVIEW. This LEED Platinum certified modern farmhouse ties into the cultural landscape of Lincoln, Massachusetts - a town known for its rich history, farming traditions, conservation efforts, and visionary architecture. The goal was to design and build a new single family home on 1.8 acres that respects the neighborhood’s agrarian roots, produces more energy than it consumes, and provides the family with flexible spaces to live-play-work-entertain. The resulting 2,800 SF home is proof that families do not need to compromise on style, space or comfort in a highly energy-efficient and healthy home.
CONNECTION TO NATURE. The attached garage is ubiquitous in new construction in New England’s cold climate. This home’s barn-inspired garage is intentionally detached from the main dwelling. A covered walkway connects the two structures, creating an intentional connection with the outdoors between auto and home.
FUNCTIONAL FLEXIBILITY. With a modest footprint, each space must serve a specific use, but also be flexible for atypical scenarios. The Mudroom serves everyday use for the couple and their children, but is also easy to tidy up to receive guests, eliminating the need for two entries found in most homes. A workspace is conveniently located off the mudroom; it looks out on to the back yard to supervise the children and can be closed off with a sliding door when not in use. The Away Room opens up to the Living Room for everyday use; it can be closed off with its oversized pocket door for secondary use as a guest bedroom with en suite bath.
NET POSITIVE ENERGY. The all-electric home consumes 70% less energy than a code-built house, and with measured energy data produces 48% more energy annually than it consumes, making it a 'net positive' home. Thick walls and roofs lack thermal bridging, windows are high performance, triple-glazed, and a continuous air barrier yields minimal leakage (0.27ACH50) making the home among the tightest in the US. Systems include an air source heat pump, an energy recovery ventilator, and a 13.1kW photovoltaic system to offset consumption and support future electric cars.
ACTUAL PERFORMANCE. -6.3 kBtu/sf/yr Energy Use Intensity (Actual monitored project data reported for the firm’s 2016 AIA 2030 Commitment. Average single family home is 52.0 kBtu/sf/yr.)
o 10,900 kwh total consumption (8.5 kbtu/ft2 EUI)
o 16,200 kwh total production
o 5,300 kwh net surplus, equivalent to 15,000-25,000 electric car miles per year. 48% net positive.
WATER EFFICIENCY. Plumbing fixtures and water closets consume a mere 60% of the federal standard, while high efficiency appliances such as the dishwasher and clothes washer also reduce consumption rates.
FOOD PRODUCTION. After clearing all invasive species, apple, pear, peach and cherry trees were planted. Future plans include blueberry, raspberry and strawberry bushes, along with raised beds for vegetable gardening. The house also offers a below ground root cellar, built outside the home's thermal envelope, to gain the passive benefit of long term energy-free food storage.
RESILIENCY. The home's ability to weather unforeseen challenges is predictable - it will fare well. The super-insulated envelope means during a winter storm with power outage, heat loss will be slow - taking days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. During normal conditions, reduced energy consumption plus energy production means shelter from the burden of utility costs. Surplus production can power electric cars & appliances. The home exceeds snow & wind structural requirements, plus far surpasses standard construction for long term durability planning.
ARCHITECT: ZeroEnergy Design http://zeroenergy.com/lincoln-farmhouse
CONTRACTOR: Thoughtforms http://thoughtforms-corp.com/
PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuck Choi http://www.chuckchoi.com/

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

The challenge imposed by the large existing window above the existing tub, which would now be in the shower, was how can you still get the light with privacy yet not change out the window size? The solution: apply a commercial opaque film half way up the existing window.

Two adjoining challenging small spaces with three functions transformed into one great space: Laundry Room, Full Bathroom & Utility Room.
Utility room - small traditional galley vinyl floor and gray floor utility room idea in New York with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, beige walls, a stacked washer/dryer and white countertops
Utility room - small traditional galley vinyl floor and gray floor utility room idea in New York with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, beige walls, a stacked washer/dryer and white countertops

Garage addition with elevator--the challenge, as always, is integrating the addition with the existing structure. Xpand nailed it--pun intended!
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.”
While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting.
Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence.
The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world.
We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.
Scale
0.47 ACRES
Scope
HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN
Year
2025
Photography
Studio PYG
Architecture Renovation
Bravo Architecture
Interior Design
Miriam Moore Design Studio
Landscape Architecture
LandFluent
General Contractor
Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida
Landscape Contractor
Signature Trees & Palms
Lighting Design / Contractor
PCL Lighting

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

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.”
While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting.
Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence.
The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world.
We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline.
Scale
0.47 ACRES
Scope
HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN
Year
2025
Photography
Studio PYG
Architecture Renovation
Bravo Architecture
Interior Design
Miriam Moore Design Studio
Landscape Architecture
LandFluent
General Contractor
Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida
Landscape Contractor
Signature Trees & Palms
Lighting Design / Contractor
PCL Lighting

Garage addition with elevator--the challenge, as always, is integrating the addition with the existing structure. Xpand nailed it--pun intended!
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis
Large mountain style attached three-car garage photo in Minneapolis
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