Search results for "Primary purpose" in Home Design Ideas

Walking into this reimagined primary bath feels like stepping into a boutique spa. The entire space is wrapped in a soft, barely-there blush-white wall color that reads almost like warm light itself, creating an instantly calming atmosphere that the design then builds upon thoughtfully.
Twin sage blue-gray vanities run along both sides of the room, each finished in a shaker-style painted cabinetry with polished chrome bar pulls and topped with a gorgeous Calacatta-style quartz — the same material flowing seamlessly across countertops and up as a low backsplash. Above each vanity hang individual black rounded-rectangle mirrors with matching chrome picture-light sconces, creating a clean, modern hotel-bath aesthetic that feels crisp without being cold.
The walk-in shower is the undeniable heart of the room — a generous double-entry wet room featuring dual rainfall showerheads, dual handheld wand fixtures, and a natural light source through a privacy glass window that floods the space with soft, diffused daylight. Large format white wall tile set in a simple grid pattern keeps the shower feeling expansive and serene, while large-format Calacatta marble-look porcelain tile on the floor carries the quartz veining language from the vanities underfoot throughout the entire bathroom. A polished chrome heated towel rack mounted on the bathroom wall adds a luxurious, spa-grade detail — warm towels waiting after every shower. A teak wood bath mat on the floor completes the spa atmosphere perfectly.
The Laundry Room
Just steps away, the laundry room received an equally remarkable transformation — one that proves this hardworking space can be just as design-forward as any other room in the house. Deep hunter green painted cabinetry with brushed brass bar pulls commands the room from floor to ceiling, creating a rich, dramatic palette that feels collected and intentional rather than builder-grade.
Upper shaker-style cabinets maximize storage above the machines, while a tall pantry-style column cabinet on the end wall provides floor-to-ceiling concealed storage for supplies. A painted shiplap accent panel between the upper cabinets and the counter is fitted with a row of brass coat hooks — a dual-purpose detail that adds texture and hang space for bags and reusable totes. The counter surface in white quartz sits above the side-by-side front-load washer and dryer, creating a functional folding station. A white square tile backsplash behind the machines adds a clean, easy-care surface that holds its own against the bold green cabinetry. A built-in wood bench with open storage below creates a secondary mudroom function, while a warm-toned live-edge wood floating shelf adds organic contrast. A custom built walnut open bookcase tucked at the room's end provides stylish overflow storage that gives the space personality beyond its utility.

With practical purpose in mind, the master bathroom was custom-designed with his and her floating vanities from Dura Supreme in sustainable bamboo. A functional above-counter storage tower eliminates the need to bend down for access.
Complimenting the cabinets, we chose black hardware resembling a Japanese pagoda roof, Brittanica Gold Cambria countertops, and black and gold leaf vanity lights by Ferguson.

After years of living with a bathroom that never quite met their needs, this homeowner was ready for a change. With retirement on the horizon, they knew it was time to finally create the serene, spa-like primary bathroom they had always envisioned—one that balanced beauty, function, and relaxation.
Because this primary bathroom renovation would be completed in a compact footprint, every element of this renovation needed to be designed with purpose.
A luxurious steam and aromatherapy shower became the centerpiece, offering a true at-home retreat. The barrierless shower design created seamless, clean lines, while a wall-mounted toilet and floating vanity maximized both space and ease of cleaning. Reversing the swing of the closet door so it was accessible from the bedroom side made the layout more spacious and functional.
Storage was also a top priority, and every inch was used efficiently. A hidden medicine cabinet and a discreet shower niche built into the pony wall ensured that organization never compromised aesthetics.
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The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

Walking into this reimagined primary bath feels like stepping into a boutique spa. The entire space is wrapped in a soft, barely-there blush-white wall color that reads almost like warm light itself, creating an instantly calming atmosphere that the design then builds upon thoughtfully.
Twin sage blue-gray vanities run along both sides of the room, each finished in a shaker-style painted cabinetry with polished chrome bar pulls and topped with a gorgeous Calacatta-style quartz — the same material flowing seamlessly across countertops and up as a low backsplash. Above each vanity hang individual black rounded-rectangle mirrors with matching chrome picture-light sconces, creating a clean, modern hotel-bath aesthetic that feels crisp without being cold.
The walk-in shower is the undeniable heart of the room — a generous double-entry wet room featuring dual rainfall showerheads, dual handheld wand fixtures, and a natural light source through a privacy glass window that floods the space with soft, diffused daylight. Large format white wall tile set in a simple grid pattern keeps the shower feeling expansive and serene, while large-format Calacatta marble-look porcelain tile on the floor carries the quartz veining language from the vanities underfoot throughout the entire bathroom. A polished chrome heated towel rack mounted on the bathroom wall adds a luxurious, spa-grade detail — warm towels waiting after every shower. A teak wood bath mat on the floor completes the spa atmosphere perfectly.
The Laundry Room
Just steps away, the laundry room received an equally remarkable transformation — one that proves this hardworking space can be just as design-forward as any other room in the house. Deep hunter green painted cabinetry with brushed brass bar pulls commands the room from floor to ceiling, creating a rich, dramatic palette that feels collected and intentional rather than builder-grade.
Upper shaker-style cabinets maximize storage above the machines, while a tall pantry-style column cabinet on the end wall provides floor-to-ceiling concealed storage for supplies. A painted shiplap accent panel between the upper cabinets and the counter is fitted with a row of brass coat hooks — a dual-purpose detail that adds texture and hang space for bags and reusable totes. The counter surface in white quartz sits above the side-by-side front-load washer and dryer, creating a functional folding station. A white square tile backsplash behind the machines adds a clean, easy-care surface that holds its own against the bold green cabinetry. A built-in wood bench with open storage below creates a secondary mudroom function, while a warm-toned live-edge wood floating shelf adds organic contrast. A custom built walnut open bookcase tucked at the room's end provides stylish overflow storage that gives the space personality beyond its utility.

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home.
The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living.
The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home.
The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play.
The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Energy Efficient features include:
• The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade
• 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques
• Foil covered roof sheathing
• Extensive use of blown in cellulous
• All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass
• Tank-less water heaters
• Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV.
Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency.
These items include:
• 2x6 walls with staggered studs
• Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting
• Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows
• ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls.
The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

All rooms had new doors installed. Closet doors were all single shaker doors and all entryway doors had triple shaker panel doors installed. The Master bedroom closet was enlarged and the office room which shared the closet space with the master bedroom partition was removed.

After years of living with a bathroom that never quite met their needs, this homeowner was ready for a change. With retirement on the horizon, they knew it was time to finally create the serene, spa-like primary bathroom they had always envisioned—one that balanced beauty, function, and relaxation.
Because this primary bathroom renovation would be completed in a compact footprint, every element of this renovation needed to be designed with purpose.
A luxurious steam and aromatherapy shower became the centerpiece, offering a true at-home retreat. The barrierless shower design created seamless, clean lines, while a wall-mounted toilet and floating vanity maximized both space and ease of cleaning. Reversing the swing of the closet door so it was accessible from the bedroom side made the layout more spacious and functional.
Storage was also a top priority, and every inch was used efficiently. A hidden medicine cabinet and a discreet shower niche built into the pony wall ensured that organization never compromised aesthetics.

Nina’s bathroom had served its purpose for years, but the dated tub, framed shower, and long mirror no longer reflected her style. She chose to reimagine the space into something brighter, more open, and designed for everyday comfort.
The large corner tub and framed shower were removed, making way for a spacious curbless design. Arizona Tile Pebble Mosaics in Mica were installed on the floor, paired with a Driftwood grout that brings warmth and texture.
Bianco Lasa polished wall tile was placed in a horizontal pattern for balance. An accent band and recessed niches in Siberian Pearl Brushed Amalfi Marble Mosaic introduced dimension, while Delta Trinsic fixtures in matte black created a striking finish.
Waypoint Painted Linen 410F cabinets were installed along the 105-inch vanity wall, fitted with Elements Naples matte black handles for a crisp, modern touch. Ultra Shelf Walnut floating shelves in Jacobean were added between sinks for storage and display.
Della Terra Quartz in Cortona Gold was selected for the countertops, with a subtle bullnose edge. MSI Surfaces white rectangular undermount sinks were installed, each paired with Delta Trinsic widespread matte black faucets.
Above the vanity, Ren Wil Danske beveled mirrors were mounted, complemented by Longshore Tides Angelos 2-light vanity fixtures in plated smoke. The new lighting added warmth while highlighting the polished quartz and cabinet finishes.
The walls were painted Dunn Edwards Shady DEC774, with white trim and ceiling paint to match existing finishes, tying the room together in a fresh, cohesive palette.
The remodel turned Nina’s bathroom into a calming retreat with timeless materials and thoughtful updates. The new shower, vanity, and consistent finishes elevated the space, providing a fresh balance of beauty and everyday function.

The original idea was to update the tile floor and the tub. That’s it.
A further discussion of wants and needs revealed intentions for an eventual larger shower and an improved vanity storage. It made sense to map out the possibilities and design our update with potential next steps in mind. The process was exciting, ultimately leading to the decision to do a full primary bath remodel.
Design Objectives:
-Maintain existing locations for all major bathroom functions
-Make the shower larger and more open
-Use luxurious materials throughout
-Improve vanity storage and define accessories for specific items
-Incorporate luxury shower fixtures
-Include the latest technology
Design Challenges
-Enlarging the shower in a typical rectangular shape would block the view and light from the alcove windows behind the tub
-Logical placement of the built-in shower caddy and all shower components in accordance with how and where they were to be used
-Keeping the long, back wall free from any shower modules to maintain the decorative tile design
-Combining the owner’s existing smart home system with a comprehensive shower system
-Planning cabinetry for hidden storage and use for various small appliances and make-up
-Integrating expensive shower wall tile with less expensive wall tile for aesthetic and budget purposes
-Incorporating special design features to balance the highly decorative shower tile
Design solutions:
-A clipped corner was planned for the shower bench seat – this allowed for a larger glass wall. The glass wall at the angled bench also brought more natural light into the shower
-Thoughtful shower space design prevented the crowding of features – the shower caddy and handheld shower head were placed on the full-height wall by the shower bench, the regular shower head and body sprays remained on the opposite wall, and the rain head was placed in the center of the shower
-A multi-port DTV system was installed, providing control of all shower components, including chromotherapy and music inside and outside the shower
-The lavish water-jet stone and glass decorative tile was paired with a less-expensive glass tile found in the mosaic
-Pull-out grooming organizers and electrical docking stations were incorporated into the cabinetry
Additional storage was created in the lower corner cabinet
The homeowners are thrilled with their new primary bathroom. Clear goals and carefully evaluated materials informed a fun and functional design that is both thoughtful and sumptuous!

After years of living with a bathroom that never quite met their needs, this homeowner was ready for a change. With retirement on the horizon, they knew it was time to finally create the serene, spa-like primary bathroom they had always envisioned—one that balanced beauty, function, and relaxation.
Because this primary bathroom renovation would be completed in a compact footprint, every element of this renovation needed to be designed with purpose.
A luxurious steam and aromatherapy shower became the centerpiece, offering a true at-home retreat. The barrierless shower design created seamless, clean lines, while a wall-mounted toilet and floating vanity maximized both space and ease of cleaning. Reversing the swing of the closet door so it was accessible from the bedroom side made the layout more spacious and functional.
Storage was also a top priority, and every inch was used efficiently. A hidden medicine cabinet and a discreet shower niche built into the pony wall ensured that organization never compromised aesthetics.

After years of living with a bathroom that never quite met their needs, this homeowner was ready for a change. With retirement on the horizon, they knew it was time to finally create the serene, spa-like primary bathroom they had always envisioned—one that balanced beauty, function, and relaxation.
Because this primary bathroom renovation would be completed in a compact footprint, every element of this renovation needed to be designed with purpose.
A luxurious steam and aromatherapy shower became the centerpiece, offering a true at-home retreat. The barrierless shower design created seamless, clean lines, while a wall-mounted toilet and floating vanity maximized both space and ease of cleaning. Reversing the swing of the closet door so it was accessible from the bedroom side made the layout more spacious and functional.
Storage was also a top priority, and every inch was used efficiently. A hidden medicine cabinet and a discreet shower niche built into the pony wall ensured that organization never compromised aesthetics.

This project reimagines an under-used back yard in Portland, Oregon, creating an urban garden with an adjacent writer’s studio. Taking inspiration from Japanese precedents, we conceived of a paving scheme with planters, a cedar soaking tub, a fire pit, and a seven-foot-tall cedar fence. A maple tree forms the focal point and will grow to shade the yard. Board-formed concrete planters house conifers, maples and moss, appropriate to the Pacific Northwest climate.
Photo: Anna M Campbell: annamcampbell.com

The duo purpose custom built-ins with shiplap detail provide storage for clothing, blankets, and bedding in the drawers and upper cabinets, while office supplies are housed in the center cabinets. Desk built by TIm Hill Fine Woodworking
Photo by Maine Photo Co - Liz Donnelly

In this new construction home in Hinsdale, IL the design team at O’Brien Harris was brought in at the earliest stages of planning—allowing for seamless integration of cabinetry and architectural details. Early collaboration with the builder meant every functional need could be fully addressed, including custom framing for hidden lighting and other details that would have been difficult to retrofit.
The kitchen features a unique layout that places the cook at the center of the space, facing the yard and natural light. This intentional orientation shaped the design from the start to create a layout that felt open, balanced, and multi-functional. Because the project was built from the ground up, O’Brien Harris was able to integrate downdraft ventilation systems that maintain sightlines allowing the range to face outward—achieving both form and function without compromise.
Two kitchen islands define the space, though each serves a distinct purpose. The first island is centered around the cooktop and prep area, while the second acts more like a piece of freestanding furniture—with seating, storage, and a softer presence in the room. Four oversized pendant lanterns anchor the entire space, offering both visual weight and warm illumination.
To support entertaining, a full back kitchen was added behind the main space, offering the same level of functionality with additional appliances and prep areas. A fully retractable pass-through window opens directly to the outdoor entertaining area, making the kitchen feel as expansive as the outdoors. O’Brien Harris also designed and fabricated the cabinetry in the primary bath.

Our clients fell in love with this expansive modern home and collaborated with us to inject their personalities and add function to meet their lifestyle. Original artwork collected during their travels inspired much of the interior palette, and we looked to vibrant patterned fabrics, bold accents and gorgeous floral wallpapers to boost the personality of the spaces. In the great room, we added color with a bold wool area rug and accent pillows, and the pair of swivel chairs in the window invites leisurely time taking in the sweeping views. The richly textured dining room has its own personality with brick-clad walls and an unapologetically stylish sputnik chandelier.
The primary bedroom is wrapped in soft, modern floral wallpaper that inspired the palette of the bespoke furnishings and luxurious bedding. Rich upholstery and supple leather adorn pieces customized for the space.
The home’s key entertaining space is the ground level bar and lounge which boasts a custom handcrafted wine wall by Sommi Wine Cellars. Furnishings with colorful patterns and unique shapes are everywhere, inviting lively gatherings and conversation.
The hobby room invites the couple to get creative together and serves as a multi-purpose getaway. The guest room repurposed the couple’s existing bedroom furniture and area rug, and we pulled it all together with new artwork, lamps and bedding to create an inviting space for guests.
Photography by Meagan Larsen Photography

This project focused on creating a more functional and connected first floor while introducing a refined, modern aesthetic. The design prioritizes open sightlines, improved circulation, and purposeful zones for daily living. The kitchen, dining, and living spaces were reworked to feel cohesive and expansive, while private areas such as the primary suite were enhanced for comfort and usability. Material selections balance warmth and contrast, combining darker cabinetry, natural wood tones, and light stone surfaces to create a grounded and livable environment. Storage was a key driver throughout the design, with added pantry space, built-ins, and a fully customized closet.

This project reimagines a 1940s Maple Leaf residence for a young family of four—transforming it into a modern transitional home that feels timeless, warm, and truly lived in. The goal was to balance character with comfort, creating spaces that support daily family life while remaining refined and enduring in design.
Our approach focused on optimizing the space plan to improve flow, storage, and functionality throughout the home. Every decision was guided by how the family lives, works, and gathers, ensuring each room feels intuitive, comfortable, and purposeful without sacrificing beauty.
A cohesive, nature-inspired palette ties the home together. Warm whites and oak tones form a calm foundation, layered with greens and soft blues for depth and balance. From the serene, color-drenched primary bedroom to the playful nursery and the productivity-focused home office anchored by a landscape mural, each space was designed to elevate everyday living while feeling effortlessly welcoming.
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