This kitchen is designed for an active family who loves to bake, cook and entertain. It is beautifully functional, provides room for multiple cooks, storage for all the kitchen gadgets, lots of space for preparation, an eat-in area and a workable flow to the rest of the house. Relocating appliances eliminates the bottleneck. In addition, opening up the wall to the dining room allows for conversation and pass through but still provides needed storage with beautiful glass front cabinets. Photo:J. Brent Reeves

Kitchen - transitional kitchen idea in DC Metro

Not only is this kitchen beautiful, its functional and provides storage so everything you need to prepare a family meal is within easy reach.
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Seattle with an undermount sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, stainless steel appliances and an island

This contemporary kitchen design makes maximum use of the space to create an open kitchen/dining/entertainment area. This is the perfect place to prepare meals, dine with family, or entertain guests at a party. At the center of the kitchen is a large, T-shaped, multi-level island that creates space for food preparation with a sink and also for dining with ample seating. The island cabinetry has an espresso finish that beautifully offsets the pumice finish on the main cabinetry with glass front upper cabinets. The design is finished off with stainless appliances and hood, glass and metal backsplash, and a striking lighting design. Photos by Susan Hagstrom

This whole home interior painting and trim upgrade project in Lancaster highlights how a professionally executed finish can completely transform the look, feel, and flow of an entire living space. The project began with a dated interior featuring worn paint, visible wall imperfections, and aging trim that no longer reflected a clean, modern aesthetic. While the home’s structure remained solid, the overall appearance felt dull and lacked the brightness, consistency, and refinement homeowners are looking for today. Our team began with a comprehensive preparation process across the entire home, which is one of the most critical steps in achieving a high-quality and long-lasting paint finish. Every surface was carefully cleaned, patched, and sanded to create a smooth and uniform base. All floors, fixtures, and furnishings were fully protected using professional-grade coverings, and trim lines throughout the home were precisely taped to ensure sharp, clean edges. This level of preparation not only enhances the final appearance but also ensures durability and consistency from room to room. As the project progressed, premium-quality paints were applied using a combination of rolling and precision cutting techniques to achieve a smooth, even finish across all wall and ceiling surfaces. The selected color palette focused on modern, neutral tones designed to maximize natural light and create a cohesive, open feel throughout the home. At the same time, all trim, baseboards, and interior details were upgraded with a crisp white finish, adding contrast, depth, and a polished look that ties every space together. During the final stages, detailed touch-ups and trim refinements were completed in every room to achieve a flawless, professional-grade result. Each edge, corner, and transition was carefully inspected and perfected, ensuring consistency and craftsmanship at every level. The transformation is especially noticeable when comparing the before and after, as the home evolves from a worn, outdated environment into a bright, modern, and refreshed living space. Once completed, the home was staged to highlight its full potential and demonstrate how a whole home painting upgrade can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The final result is a clean, cohesive, and welcoming interior that feels updated, spacious, and move-in ready. Projects like this showcase the value of expert craftsmanship and attention to detail in full-home interior renovations. Whether you are preparing your property for sale or looking to modernize your living space, a whole home interior painting and trim upgrade remains one of the most effective ways to increase both visual appeal and overall property value in Lancaster, MA and surrounding areas. Our team started with a detailed preparation process, which is one of the most critical steps in achieving a high-quality paint finish. All surfaces were carefully cleaned, patched, and sanded to ensure a smooth and even base. Floors and furniture were fully protected using professional-grade coverings, and trim areas were precisely taped to guarantee clean, sharp lines. This level of preparation ensures that the final result is not only visually appealing but also long-lasting. As the painting phase progressed, high-quality paints were applied using a combination of rolling and cutting techniques to create a consistent, smooth finish across all wall surfaces. The color selection focused on modern, neutral tones that enhance natural light and create a more open, inviting atmosphere. At the same time, the trim and baseboards were upgraded with a crisp, clean white finish, adding contrast and definition throughout the space. During the final stages, detailed touch-ups and trim work were completed to achieve a flawless result. Every corner, edge, and transition was carefully inspected and refined, ensuring a professional-grade finish that stands out. The transformation is most noticeable when comparing the before and after stages, where the room evolves from a dated and worn environment into a bright, modern living area. The completed space was then staged to showcase its full potential, demonstrating how a simple upgrade like interior painting and trim work can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The result is a clean, polished, and welcoming environment that feels refreshed and ready for everyday living. Projects like this demonstrate the impact of expert craftsmanship and attention to detail in interior renovations. Whether you are preparing your home for sale or simply looking to update your living space, professional painting and trim upgrades offer one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s value and appearance.

In our master bathroom, we've reimagined the traditional TV wall into a captivating focal point. Here, a cluster of carefully curated wall accents, paired with a striking floral arrangement, transforms this space into a true statement piece. This is more than just a TV wall; it's a harmonious blend of functionality and artistry, designed to elevate the ambiance of the room and create an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be enchanted as you immerse yourself in a space where every detail tells a story of luxury and sophistication.

Bathroom - transitional bathroom idea in DC Metro

Welcome to our Transitional Master Suite, where every detail contributes to a harmonious atmosphere of refined comfort. The black accent wall, the carefully selected rug, and the delicate light fixtures are all critical layers that come together to build this captivating ambiance. Here, we believe that the atmosphere lies in the details – from the interplay of colors and textures to the subtle nuances of lighting. Prepare to be enveloped in a space where every element is thoughtfully curated to create a truly immersive experience of luxury and relaxation." Welcome to our Transitional Master Suite, where every detail contributes to a harmonious atmosphere of refined comfort. The black accent wall, the carefully selected rug, and the delicate light fixtures are all critical layers that come together to build this captivating ambiance. Here, we believe that the atmosphere lies in the details – from the interplay of colors and textures to the subtle nuances of lighting. Prepare to be enveloped in a space where every element is thoughtfully curated to create a truly immersive experience of luxury and relaxation." Welcome to our Transitional Master Suite, where every detail contributes to a harmonious atmosphere of refined comfort. The black accent wall, the carefully selected rug, and the delicate light fixtures are all critical layers that come together to build this captivating ambiance. Here, we believe that the atmosphere lies in the details – from the interplay of colors and textures to the subtle nuances of lighting. Prepare to be enveloped in a space where every element is thoughtfully curated to create a truly immersive experience of luxury and relaxation.

This contemporary kitchen design makes maximum use of the space to create an open kitchen/dining/entertainment area. This is the perfect place to prepare meals, dine with family, or entertain guests at a party. At the center of the kitchen is a large, T-shaped, multi-level island that creates space for food preparation with a sink and also for dining with ample seating. The island cabinetry has an espresso finish that beautifully offsets the pumice finish on the main cabinetry with glass front upper cabinets. The design is finished off with stainless appliances and hood, glass and metal backsplash, and a striking lighting design. Photos by Susan Hagstrom

This whole home interior painting and trim upgrade project in Lancaster highlights how a professionally executed finish can completely transform the look, feel, and flow of an entire living space. The project began with a dated interior featuring worn paint, visible wall imperfections, and aging trim that no longer reflected a clean, modern aesthetic. While the home’s structure remained solid, the overall appearance felt dull and lacked the brightness, consistency, and refinement homeowners are looking for today. Our team began with a comprehensive preparation process across the entire home, which is one of the most critical steps in achieving a high-quality and long-lasting paint finish. Every surface was carefully cleaned, patched, and sanded to create a smooth and uniform base. All floors, fixtures, and furnishings were fully protected using professional-grade coverings, and trim lines throughout the home were precisely taped to ensure sharp, clean edges. This level of preparation not only enhances the final appearance but also ensures durability and consistency from room to room. As the project progressed, premium-quality paints were applied using a combination of rolling and precision cutting techniques to achieve a smooth, even finish across all wall and ceiling surfaces. The selected color palette focused on modern, neutral tones designed to maximize natural light and create a cohesive, open feel throughout the home. At the same time, all trim, baseboards, and interior details were upgraded with a crisp white finish, adding contrast, depth, and a polished look that ties every space together. During the final stages, detailed touch-ups and trim refinements were completed in every room to achieve a flawless, professional-grade result. Each edge, corner, and transition was carefully inspected and perfected, ensuring consistency and craftsmanship at every level. The transformation is especially noticeable when comparing the before and after, as the home evolves from a worn, outdated environment into a bright, modern, and refreshed living space. Once completed, the home was staged to highlight its full potential and demonstrate how a whole home painting upgrade can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The final result is a clean, cohesive, and welcoming interior that feels updated, spacious, and move-in ready. Projects like this showcase the value of expert craftsmanship and attention to detail in full-home interior renovations. Whether you are preparing your property for sale or looking to modernize your living space, a whole home interior painting and trim upgrade remains one of the most effective ways to increase both visual appeal and overall property value in Lancaster, MA and surrounding areas. Our team started with a detailed preparation process, which is one of the most critical steps in achieving a high-quality paint finish. All surfaces were carefully cleaned, patched, and sanded to ensure a smooth and even base. Floors and furniture were fully protected using professional-grade coverings, and trim areas were precisely taped to guarantee clean, sharp lines. This level of preparation ensures that the final result is not only visually appealing but also long-lasting. As the painting phase progressed, high-quality paints were applied using a combination of rolling and cutting techniques to create a consistent, smooth finish across all wall surfaces. The color selection focused on modern, neutral tones that enhance natural light and create a more open, inviting atmosphere. At the same time, the trim and baseboards were upgraded with a crisp, clean white finish, adding contrast and definition throughout the space. During the final stages, detailed touch-ups and trim work were completed to achieve a flawless result. Every corner, edge, and transition was carefully inspected and refined, ensuring a professional-grade finish that stands out. The transformation is most noticeable when comparing the before and after stages, where the room evolves from a dated and worn environment into a bright, modern living area. The completed space was then staged to showcase its full potential, demonstrating how a simple upgrade like interior painting and trim work can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The result is a clean, polished, and welcoming environment that feels refreshed and ready for everyday living. Projects like this demonstrate the impact of expert craftsmanship and attention to detail in interior renovations. Whether you are preparing your home for sale or simply looking to update your living space, professional painting and trim upgrades offer one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s value and appearance.

Inspiration for a transitional living room remodel in DC Metro

Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional drought-tolerant and partial sun backyard landscaping in Toronto.

Pendant lights bring a soft sophistication to this kitchen space. #modern #doors #preparing #panels #appearances #countertops #entertaining #prepare #radiation #space #kitchen #pendantlight #pendantlights #bring

Staging a home for sale or for a major transition is a strange in-between state. You are still living in the space, but you are also preparing it to impress strangers, support showings, and remain functional until the final move-out day. That tension between “home” and “product” is where storage quietly becomes one of your smartest tools. Used well, storage lets you reduce clutter, protect important items, and create the kind of rooms that photograph beautifully and feel calm when buyers walk through the door. A staged move is rarely just about shifting boxes from one address to another. It is about managing timing, presentation, and stress at the same time. When storage is built into the plan from day one, the entire process feels less rushed and more strategic. Rooms open up gradually, essentials stay accessible, and you never feel like you are drowning in half-packed chaos. Understanding how to use storage as a staging partner, not just a place to dump excess stuff, is what turns a messy transition into a controlled, professional-looking move. Why Storage Is the Backbone of Every Staged Move Visual space is emotional space. When every surface is covered, and every corner is full, buyers feel crowded before they have even evaluated the layout. Storage gives you a way to pull back without making drastic decisions about what to keep or donate. Seasonal décor, bulky furniture, duplicate items, archives, and personal collections can be moved out early, so the home reads cleaner and more open while still feeling lived-in. That balance between warmth and simplicity is exactly what good staging tries to achieve. In more complex situations, such as live-work properties or home offices, storage becomes even more important. You may need to keep a business running while also presenting a polished environment to viewers. Partnering with local movers in Boston makes it easier to shift equipment, files, and nonessential pieces into storage in phases, so work can continue while the visible areas of the property stay controlled and presentable. How Staging and Storage Work Together to Control Visual Impact Staging works best when every object in a room has a clear purpose. A sofa frames a conversation. A table suggests gathering. A lamp softens the mood. Everything else that is not essential to that story competes for attention. Storage supports staging by giving you a clean staging bench off-site, where nonessential items can wait without being constantly shuffled between rooms or piled into overstuffed closets. The art lies in deciding what stays and what goes. Family photos, extensive collections, excess seating, and rarely used appliances often move into storage first. What remains should be enough to show scale, comfort, and function without revealing the full weight of daily life. Commercial properties go through a similar filtering process. Extra desks, surplus equipment, outdated signage, and inactive files often move out early so the active workspace feels lean, efficient, and future-ready before a relocation supported by commercial movers takes place. Strategic Timing of Storage before the Actual Move The worst time to think about storage is when boxes are already stacked in the hallway. In a staged move, storage decisions ideally begin as soon as you know the property will be listed or the space will be transitioned. That might be a month or more before the main moving date. Starting early gives you time to sort, label, and prioritize instead of throwing things together in a panic. An early storage phase also helps you test how the home feels with less in it. You may discover that removing a few large pieces transforms a cramped room into an open, inviting space. For commercial spaces, early storage lets operations continue with fewer interruptions. Departments can send nonessential items out in waves. When the main relocation comes, much of the excess is already safely stored, and what remains is easier for a commercial movers Boston team to handle with speed and care. The Emotional Psychology behind Letting Storage Hold Your Belongings Letting belongings leave the house ahead of you can feel unsettling. There is always a quiet fear that once something is out of sight, it will be forgotten, damaged, or harder to reclaim. That is why some people resist using storage even when they know it would make the staging process easier. Acknowledging that emotion instead of dismissing it helps you plan more honestly and avoids last-minute regret. The reality is that good storage is not a black hole; it is a temporary pause. When items are packed thoughtfully, labeled clearly, and placed in an environment you trust, they become easier to manage than when they are tucked into random cupboards or stacked in spare rooms. For many people, living with fewer visible possessions during staging actually reduces tension. The home feels lighter and easier to maintain. Businesses notice the same effect when storage removes outdated equipment and clutter from the floor. The workspace looks more focused, and staff can concentrate on current tasks instead of navigating around accumulated history. Protecting Assets While They Live in Storage Sending belongings into storage is only a good idea if they come back in the same or better condition. That is where quality control matters. Furniture, textiles, electronics, files, and artwork each have different vulnerabilities. Moisture, temperature swings, dust, and rough handling can all damage them in ways that only become obvious later. Choosing the right type of storage and packing accordingly is central to the genius of using storage as part of a staged move rather than as a desperate overflow container. Climate-controlled units, padded wrapping, elevated pallets, careful stacking, and clearly marked boxes all reduce risk. The goal is to handle items fewer times, not more. When storage is integrated into the move plan, belongings can travel directly from the home to storage and later from storage to the new address with minimal extra movement. Many owners coordinate those transfers through a well trusted movers in Boston, so the same team that moves items out early also manages their final delivery, preserving continuity and accountability. How Storage Reduces Risk during Multi-Phase Moves Few staged moves happen in a single clean step. There are often gaps between listing and selling, between selling and closing, between closing and final move-out. If renovations, inspections, or office reconfigurations are involved, the timeline becomes even more layered. Storage absorbs those gaps, so you are not forced to live among towers of boxes or stack equipment in hallways waiting for the next phase. By treating storage as a flexible middle ground, you can move things out gradually while still having access when needed. For example, archived files can go first, followed by seasonal décor, then surplus furniture. As each stage ends, fewer items remain to be shifted on the final date. This phased approach reduces the risk of rushed, late-night packing sessions, careless stacking, and damaged items. It also makes it easier for commercial moving crews to work efficiently because they are handling a manageable volume of goods at each phase rather than everything at once. Using Storage to Maintain Clean Show-Ready Conditions One of the hardest parts of staging is keeping the property consistently show-ready. Every viewing becomes its own small event. Floors need to be cleared, surfaces wiped, and personal items tucked away. When too many belongings remain in the home, each showing takes a heavy amount of effort. Storage cuts that workload dramatically by taking nonessentials completely off the stage. With fewer items to move and hide, maintaining a neutral, inviting look becomes much more realistic. You are not scrambling to stuff things into closets or push items under the bed. Instead, the home sits closer to show condition all the time, and the final touches before a viewing are minimal. In commercial environments, using storage helps maintain a professional appearance for clients and staff, even while the space is being prepared for a larger transition. Active tools and furniture stay in play, while inactive pieces quietly support the future from storage. Storage as a Strategic Tool in Business Relocation Planning For businesses, storage is more than a convenience; it is part of risk management. Office relocations and staged commercial moves have to juggle lease deadlines, equipment deliveries, IT cutovers, and staffing realities. Trying to shift everything in one move often results in downtime, lost files, and strained teams. Storage turns the move into a series of controlled steps instead of a single disruptive jump. Unused furniture, archived documents, and non-critical inventory can be moved into storage weeks ahead of the main relocation. As the new space becomes ready, items can move out of storage and directly into position. This reduces double-handling and keeps the old and new locations from filling with half-unpacked material. A business that coordinates these flows with professional commercial movers in Boston usually experiences smoother transitions, because storage is treated as a working part of the operational plan rather than a leftover problem. The Hidden Cost Benefits of Proper Storage Planning On paper, storage looks like an extra expense. In reality, poorly managed moves cost far more. When everything is rushed into boxes at the last minute, items are damaged, misplaced, or transported multiple times. Extra labor hours, emergency packing supplies, replacement furniture, and extended timelines quickly outweigh the cost of well-used storage. Staging without storage also tends to keep homes and offices crowded longer, which can hurt impressions and, in the case of a sale, influence offers. When storage is integrated from the beginning, you minimize waste. You handle items fewer times, you know where things are, and you avoid paying people to shift the same objects repeatedly. Staged homes that look better often sell faster or draw stronger interest, which helps recover investment on the back end. Businesses benefit from less downtime, safer handling of equipment, and predictable work schedules. Those gains are why many clients prefer partnering with a commercial moving company in Boston that understands storage as a cost-control tool, not just a place to park overflow. Conclusion The true genius of using storage during a staged home move is that it quietly rewrites the rules of transition. Instead of treating space as something that must absorb every box and belonging until the last possible moment, you treat storage as a flexible extension of the home or office. This shift in thinking opens rooms, clears sightlines, and makes every phase of the move more intentional. Staging becomes easier, maintenance becomes lighter, and the stress of living in a half-moved environment drops noticeably. When storage is chosen carefully, used early, and coordinated with the overall moving plan, it protects both physical assets and emotional energy. Buyers and visitors see a calm, collected space. You experience a less chaotic path from “here” to “there.” Whether you are selling a home, repositioning a business, or managing a complex phased relocation, storage can turn a disruptive event into a managed, almost elegant process. For people who want that level of control and care during a staged move, Stairhopper movers have built a strong reputation by treating storage, timing, and transport as parts of one connected strategy. Their team is known for listening closely, planning around real-life constraints, and moving both residential and commercial clients through transitions with calm, steady execution. They approach every project as a partnership, aligning storage use, staging needs, and final delivery so that what matters most arrives safely, on schedule, and with as little disruption as possible. Frequently Asked Questions Q1. When should I arrange storage for a staged home move? Ideally, four to six weeks before listing or transition, so clearing, packing, and staging can happen gradually without rushed decisions or last-minute stress. Q2. Is climate-controlled storage necessary for staged moves? It is highly recommended for wood furniture, electronics, artwork, and documents, since temperature and humidity swings can quietly damage materials over time. Q3. How does storage help keep a home show-ready? By moving nonessential items off-site, daily tidying becomes simpler, and each room can stay closer to a staged condition between viewings or inspections. Q4. Can storage reduce the length of the final moving day? Yes. When many items are moved into storage in advance, the final moving day focuses on essentials, which shortens timelines and reduces physical and mental strain. Q5. Is storage useful for short-term business relocations? Even in short relocations, storage helps prevent overcrowded offices and allows departments to move in phases without interrupting everyday operations. Q6. How do I decide what should go into storage first? Start with rarely used items, seasonal décor, surplus furniture, and archived materials, then work toward pieces that are visually distracting or make rooms feel cramped. Q7. Will using storage make it harder to find things later? Not if packing and labeling are done carefully. Clear categories, room-based labels, and simple inventories make stored items easier to locate than when scattered at home. Q8. Does storage still make sense if my move happens in one day? Yes, because staging and preparation begin well before that day. Storage keeps the home functional and attractive during the weeks leading up to the final move.

A transitional space designed to connect the entry sequence to the kitchen and primary living areas. Open sight-lines, sculptural stair geometry, and restrained material shifts guide movement through the home while maintaining a sense of calm and orientation. Natural light and long views reinforce the architectural flow and prepare the transition into the kitchen beyond.

This whole home interior painting and trim upgrade project in Lancaster highlights how a professionally executed finish can completely transform the look, feel, and flow of an entire living space. The project began with a dated interior featuring worn paint, visible wall imperfections, and aging trim that no longer reflected a clean, modern aesthetic. While the home’s structure remained solid, the overall appearance felt dull and lacked the brightness, consistency, and refinement homeowners are looking for today. Our team began with a comprehensive preparation process across the entire home, which is one of the most critical steps in achieving a high-quality and long-lasting paint finish. Every surface was carefully cleaned, patched, and sanded to create a smooth and uniform base. All floors, fixtures, and furnishings were fully protected using professional-grade coverings, and trim lines throughout the home were precisely taped to ensure sharp, clean edges. This level of preparation not only enhances the final appearance but also ensures durability and consistency from room to room. As the project progressed, premium-quality paints were applied using a combination of rolling and precision cutting techniques to achieve a smooth, even finish across all wall and ceiling surfaces. The selected color palette focused on modern, neutral tones designed to maximize natural light and create a cohesive, open feel throughout the home. At the same time, all trim, baseboards, and interior details were upgraded with a crisp white finish, adding contrast, depth, and a polished look that ties every space together. During the final stages, detailed touch-ups and trim refinements were completed in every room to achieve a flawless, professional-grade result. Each edge, corner, and transition was carefully inspected and perfected, ensuring consistency and craftsmanship at every level. The transformation is especially noticeable when comparing the before and after, as the home evolves from a worn, outdated environment into a bright, modern, and refreshed living space. Once completed, the home was staged to highlight its full potential and demonstrate how a whole home painting upgrade can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The final result is a clean, cohesive, and welcoming interior that feels updated, spacious, and move-in ready. Projects like this showcase the value of expert craftsmanship and attention to detail in full-home interior renovations. Whether you are preparing your property for sale or looking to modernize your living space, a whole home interior painting and trim upgrade remains one of the most effective ways to increase both visual appeal and overall property value in Lancaster, MA and surrounding areas. Our team started with a detailed preparation process, which is one of the most critical steps in achieving a high-quality paint finish. All surfaces were carefully cleaned, patched, and sanded to ensure a smooth and even base. Floors and furniture were fully protected using professional-grade coverings, and trim areas were precisely taped to guarantee clean, sharp lines. This level of preparation ensures that the final result is not only visually appealing but also long-lasting. As the painting phase progressed, high-quality paints were applied using a combination of rolling and cutting techniques to create a consistent, smooth finish across all wall surfaces. The color selection focused on modern, neutral tones that enhance natural light and create a more open, inviting atmosphere. At the same time, the trim and baseboards were upgraded with a crisp, clean white finish, adding contrast and definition throughout the space. During the final stages, detailed touch-ups and trim work were completed to achieve a flawless result. Every corner, edge, and transition was carefully inspected and refined, ensuring a professional-grade finish that stands out. The transformation is most noticeable when comparing the before and after stages, where the room evolves from a dated and worn environment into a bright, modern living area. The completed space was then staged to showcase its full potential, demonstrating how a simple upgrade like interior painting and trim work can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. The result is a clean, polished, and welcoming environment that feels refreshed and ready for everyday living. Projects like this demonstrate the impact of expert craftsmanship and attention to detail in interior renovations. Whether you are preparing your home for sale or simply looking to update your living space, professional painting and trim upgrades offer one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s value and appearance.

Stainless steel appliances compliment the white cabinetry while bringing the appearance and modern convenience to this kitchen design. #modern #doors #preparing #panels #appearances #countertops #entertaining #prepare #radiation

Attractive living as an architectural experiment: a 136-year-old water tower, a listed building with a spectacular 360-degree panorama view over the City of London. The task, to transform it into a superior residence, initially seemed an absolute impossibility. But when the owners came across architect Mike Collier, they had found a partner who was to make the impossible possible. The tower, which had been empty for decades, underwent radical renovation work and was extended by a four-storey cube containing kitchen, dining and living room - connected by glazed tunnels and a lift shaft. The kitchen, realised by Enclosure Interiors in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, with furniture from LEICHT is the very heart of living in this new building. Shiny white matt-lacquered kitchen fronts (AVANCE-LR), tone-on-tone with the worktops, reflect the light in the room and thus create expanse and openness. The surface of the handle-less kitchen fronts has a horizontal relief embossing; depending on the light incidence, this results in a vitally structured surface. The free-standing preparation isle with its vertical side panels with a seamlessly integrated sink represents the transition between kitchen and living room. The fronts of the floor units facing the dining table were extended to the floor to do away with the plinth typical of most kitchens. Ceiling-high tall units on the wall provide plenty of storage space; the electrical appliances are integrated here invisible to the eye. Floor units on a high plinth which thus appear to be floating form the actual cooking centre within the kitchen, attached to the wall. A range of handle-less wall units concludes the glazed niche at the top. LEICHT international: “Architecture and kitchen” in the centre of London. www.LeichtUSA.com

Attractive living as an architectural experiment: a 136-year-old water tower, a listed building with a spectacular 360-degree panorama view over the City of London. The task, to transform it into a superior residence, initially seemed an absolute impossibility. But when the owners came across architect Mike Collier, they had found a partner who was to make the impossible possible. The tower, which had been empty for decades, underwent radical renovation work and was extended by a four-storey cube containing kitchen, dining and living room - connected by glazed tunnels and a lift shaft. The kitchen, realised by Enclosure Interiors in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, with furniture from LEICHT is the very heart of living in this new building. Shiny white matt-lacquered kitchen fronts (AVANCE-LR), tone-on-tone with the worktops, reflect the light in the room and thus create expanse and openness. The surface of the handle-less kitchen fronts has a horizontal relief embossing; depending on the light incidence, this results in a vitally structured surface. The free-standing preparation isle with its vertical side panels with a seamlessly integrated sink represents the transition between kitchen and living room. The fronts of the floor units facing the dining table were extended to the floor to do away with the plinth typical of most kitchens. Ceiling-high tall units on the wall provide plenty of storage space; the electrical appliances are integrated here invisible to the eye. Floor units on a high plinth which thus appear to be floating form the actual cooking centre within the kitchen, attached to the wall. A range of handle-less wall units concludes the glazed niche at the top. LEICHT international: “Architecture and kitchen” in the centre of London. www.LeichtUSA.com