Home is about creating a sense of place. Little moments add up to a sense of well being, such as looking out at framed views of the garden, or feeling the ocean breeze waft through the house. This connection to place guided the overall design, with the practical requirements to add a bedroom and bathroom quickly ( the client was pregnant!), and in a way that allowed the couple to live at home during the construction. The design also focused on connecting the interior to the backyard while maintaining privacy from nearby neighbors. Sustainability was at the forefront of the project, from choosing green building materials to designing a high-efficiency space. The composite bamboo decking, cork and bamboo flooring, tiles made with recycled content, and cladding made of recycled paper are all examples of durable green materials that have a wonderfully rich tactility to them. This addition was a second phase to the Mar Vista Sustainable Remodel, which took a tear-down home and transformed it into this family's forever home.

Designed by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC, this shaker white kitchen remodeling project features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are granite in the color Luna Pearl. Said the client, “I was seven months pregnant and on a huge time limit. Nancy was speedy, understanding and helpful to get the project done as quickly as possible. I really like how the design opened up my kitchen from the dining room to the rest of the house. My favorite parts of the kitchen are the soft close doors and drawers, and the little cabinet next to the sink which is great for cooking pans and cutting boards.” Added Nancy, “The existing plan had wall cabinetry above the peninsula and the clients planned to simply replace with new cabinetry. We had a real “oh no” moment when installation began. The original cabinetry had not been adequately supported above the finished ceiling. The plan was quickly modified and the installation moved forward! It is rare but great when “oh no” moments delay only hours and not weeks!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Designed by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC, this shaker white kitchen remodeling project features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are granite in the color Luna Pearl. Said the client, “I was seven months pregnant and on a huge time limit. Nancy was speedy, understanding and helpful to get the project done as quickly as possible. I really like how the design opened up my kitchen from the dining room to the rest of the house. My favorite parts of the kitchen are the soft close doors and drawers, and the little cabinet next to the sink which is great for cooking pans and cutting boards.” Added Nancy, “The existing plan had wall cabinetry above the peninsula and the clients planned to simply replace with new cabinetry. We had a real “oh no” moment when installation began. The original cabinetry had not been adequately supported above the finished ceiling. The plan was quickly modified and the installation moved forward! It is rare but great when “oh no” moments delay only hours and not weeks!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Designed by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC, this shaker white kitchen remodeling project features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are granite in the color Luna Pearl. Said the client, “I was seven months pregnant and on a huge time limit. Nancy was speedy, understanding and helpful to get the project done as quickly as possible. I really like how the design opened up my kitchen from the dining room to the rest of the house. My favorite parts of the kitchen are the soft close doors and drawers, and the little cabinet next to the sink which is great for cooking pans and cutting boards.” Added Nancy, “The existing plan had wall cabinetry above the peninsula and the clients planned to simply replace with new cabinetry. We had a real “oh no” moment when installation began. The original cabinetry had not been adequately supported above the finished ceiling. The plan was quickly modified and the installation moved forward! It is rare but great when “oh no” moments delay only hours and not weeks!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Designed by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC, this shaker white kitchen remodeling project features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are granite in the color Luna Pearl. Said the client, “I was seven months pregnant and on a huge time limit. Nancy was speedy, understanding and helpful to get the project done as quickly as possible. I really like how the design opened up my kitchen from the dining room to the rest of the house. My favorite parts of the kitchen are the soft close doors and drawers, and the little cabinet next to the sink which is great for cooking pans and cutting boards.” Added Nancy, “The existing plan had wall cabinetry above the peninsula and the clients planned to simply replace with new cabinetry. We had a real “oh no” moment when installation began. The original cabinetry had not been adequately supported above the finished ceiling. The plan was quickly modified and the installation moved forward! It is rare but great when “oh no” moments delay only hours and not weeks!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Designed by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC, this shaker white kitchen remodeling project features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are granite in the color Luna Pearl. Said the client, “I was seven months pregnant and on a huge time limit. Nancy was speedy, understanding and helpful to get the project done as quickly as possible. I really like how the design opened up my kitchen from the dining room to the rest of the house. My favorite parts of the kitchen are the soft close doors and drawers, and the little cabinet next to the sink which is great for cooking pans and cutting boards.” Added Nancy, “The existing plan had wall cabinetry above the peninsula and the clients planned to simply replace with new cabinetry. We had a real “oh no” moment when installation began. The original cabinetry had not been adequately supported above the finished ceiling. The plan was quickly modified and the installation moved forward! It is rare but great when “oh no” moments delay only hours and not weeks!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

Designed by Nancy Knickerbocker of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Southern Pines, NC, this shaker white kitchen remodeling project features Green Forest Cabinetry in the Park Place door style with White finish. Kitchen countertops are granite in the color Luna Pearl. Said the client, “I was seven months pregnant and on a huge time limit. Nancy was speedy, understanding and helpful to get the project done as quickly as possible. I really like how the design opened up my kitchen from the dining room to the rest of the house. My favorite parts of the kitchen are the soft close doors and drawers, and the little cabinet next to the sink which is great for cooking pans and cutting boards.” Added Nancy, “The existing plan had wall cabinetry above the peninsula and the clients planned to simply replace with new cabinetry. We had a real “oh no” moment when installation began. The original cabinetry had not been adequately supported above the finished ceiling. The plan was quickly modified and the installation moved forward! It is rare but great when “oh no” moments delay only hours and not weeks!” Photos courtesy of ShowSpaces Photography.

We used: Custom cherry cabinetry in Arts & Crafts Shaker style by Kabinart in Boulder and Espresso stains. Liberty Hardware Venetian bronze 1-1/2" cabinet knobs. KitchenAid Architect II Series 22 CF counter-depth French door refrigerator. KitchenAid Architect Series II 27" convection single wall oven. KitchenAid 36" 6-burner dual fuel freestanding commercial-style range. KitchenAid Architect II Series 24" dishwasher. Sharp Insight Pro Series 24" built-in microwave drawer (Model #KB6524PS). Crystorama Solaris 12" wide pendant lights in English bronze. Granite countertops in Brown Fantasy. 3"x6" polished marble backsplash. Paint colors: Walls: Glidden Silver Cloud 30YY 63/024 Ceilings/Trims/Doors: Glidden Swan White GLC23 Robert B. Narod Photography

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo

Example of a large classic hallway design in Tampa with yellow walls

Inspiration for a mid-sized tropical drought-tolerant and full sun backyard concrete paver landscaping in San Diego.

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo

This kitchen's drop spot was placed somewhere that is frequently passed by. A must have feature is the charging station for keeping all your electronic devices ready to go. Once you figure out how much storage you need and other features you want, you’ll realize it may just make your life easier.

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo

Allison Cartwright, Photographer RRS Design + Build is a Austin based general contractor specializing in high end remodels and custom home builds. As a leader in contemporary, modern and mid century modern design, we are the clear choice for a superior product and experience. We would love the opportunity to serve you on your next project endeavor. Put our award winning team to work for you today!

TOC design - Tania Scardellato When my clients came to see me and announced their wonderful news that they were pregnant, but did not want to know the sex of the baby, I immediately decided to have the room in greys and yellows, we could always add accessories once the baby was born. This gorgeous, serene nursery for this very much Loved new baby would need to have all the necessary amenities and easily be converted into a regular bedroom. My Client had an image of elephants as the father grew up with bedtime stories of Babar. The challenged was the size of the room only 94 sq. feet. And it would have to be transformed into a regular bedroom once the child was older. I was able to find high quality , beautiful classic furniture that also serves as double duty. Once the child would be old enough the crib can transform into a queen bed, and the removable part of the changing table becomes a 6 drawer dresser. The paintable wall paper color can be changed as well as all accessories. I believe in good quality furniture that can be passed down or converted. Yes it is more expensive but in the long run, classic pieces such as these can last a life time. Created by the concept of elephant accessories and soft pastel colors. Soft texture wallpaper and loads of storage used in an elegant way, This nursery will stand the test of time from 1 month to 18 years . One month before the birth of the child my clients found out they were getting a baby boy. He was born October 03, measuring 45cm and weighing 6.5 pounds. Congratulations guys and welcome to our world little Matteo