Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac near the beautiful Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve, this 1907 Parnassus Heights home belongs to an active couple with a young daughter. They had dreams of transforming their home into a comforting refuge, equally equipped to whip up cocktails for guests, welcome them home after a good surf, or host their aging parents. We touched just about every space in this home, including the kitchen, hallway, dining room, bedrooms, and bathrooms. In addition, we updated the basement hall that leads to the outside, transforming it into a more presentable entry for guests, and created an enclosed storage space. Given the age of the home and its location on a hillside, precise structural work was involved to renew the home’s integrity. In the kitchen, which was originally dark and cramped, we made dramatic changes. We expanded the kitchen’s footprint, designing it to capture the expansive city views and create the indoor-outdoor living space they had always wanted. A large island with custom concrete countertops, a custom banquette, and beautiful red oak cabinets are just a few of the standout features in this soothing space. The rest of this home’s spaces received equally thoughtful planning: floor-to-ceiling bedroom wardrobes with integrated lighting, custom built-in elements, carefully layered lighting for ambiance and drama, a steam shower in the primary bathroom, and the addition of skylights to bring in natural light. This home is now an inviting, purposeful space perfectly tailored to infusing joy and ease into their everyday lives.

The primary bedroom mixes vintage with new finishes to create an eclectic, homey and real space. Covid changed the program and a desk was added to the corner. Flexible spaces are a must in our times.

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. Location: Hinsdale | Custom Cabinetry: O’Brien Harris | Interior Designer: Brynn Olson Design | Builder: J. Jordan Homes | Architect: Moment Design Architecture | Photography: Werner Straube Photography | Kitchen Cabinetry: Painted Finish in Gossamar Veil | Kitchen Island and Back Kitchen Cabinetry: Stained Chatham Oak Featured Article: Luxe Interiors + Design

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

The Home The St. Julien features a flex space that is designed as a sitting area for gathering the family. As you walk upstairs, the kitchen features a large eat-in island that looks into the great room. Off the kitchen is a space that functions as an office or homework area. Moving through the great room, the sliding glass door opens to a spacious deck. Upstairs features two secondary bedrooms and a primary suite. The master suite bathroom includes a walk-in shower, walk-in closet and separate water closet. The Builder As a local, privately held homebuilder and community developer, Oakwood Homes pioneers new standards for livable luxury. We innovate through purposeful and efficient design, always using local materials, manufacturers and resources. We also provide an engaging yet straightforward homebuying experience that’s unmatched in the industry. Our mission is simple: to create luxury homes that are accessible and personable at every budget – for homebuyers in every stage of life. The Interior Design The interior design of this home has a natural feeling to it with earth tones and light woods that brings the outdoors in. To achieve this, a soft, sage green and denim blue were used with a wheat tone to pull in the wood and create a balanced palette. Unique patterns in the rugs and art add points of interest, and natural textures in the linens and softgoods provide contrast. A hint of craftsman design rounds out the space and provides a comforting home in which to gather.

This elegant coastal dining room blends timeless sophistication with serene seaside inspiration. A striking statement chandelier anchors the space, while soft pastel blues and layered neutral tones create a calming atmosphere. The textured area rug features fluid, ocean-inspired patterns that evoke the movement of water, adding depth and visual interest. Refined furnishings, natural textures, and carefully curated finishes complete this inviting space, perfect for both intimate dinners and effortless entertaining.

The owners of this property were avid entertainers who enjoy opening up their space for friends and family. The design's primary objective was to create an inviting space for mingling and socializing. Situated in Houston's West University area on a compact lot, our focus was on accommodating gatherings of varying sizes. The focal point of this design is a bubbling water feature, that enhances the space with a touch of color and soothing water sounds, complemented by a base of Mexican beach pebbles. Stamped and stained concrete compose the walkway and patio, purposefully designed to encourage conversation around the water feature and to provide a dedicated outdoor dining and gathering area. Understanding the owners' love for their canine companions, we integrated pet-friendly synthetic turf. This sustainable and low-maintenance choice offers a space where owners can enjoy quality moments with their beloved pets. We built a Western Red Cedar Fence around the property and installed Eagleston Holly trees at the perimeter for enhanced privacy. These trees will mature to an impressive 15 feet. Texas native plants, Loropetalum and Variegated Ginger, were thoughtfully incorporated throughout the design. In the evenings, carefully positioned soft LED lighting adds allure and highlights specific facets of the design. We obscured the A/C by installing an A/C screen that matches the Western Red Cedar Fence. The result of this design is an elevated space, ideal for hosting, while remaining low-maintenance and sustainable. This ensures that owners can fully embrace quality time with their family and pets, without the burden of extensive upkeep.

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 home is the American Dream! How perfect that we get to celebrate it on the 4th of July weekend ?? 4,104 Total AC SQFT with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 4-car garages with a Rustic Contemporary Multi-Generational Design. This home has 2 primary suites on either end of the home with their own 5-piece bathrooms, walk-in closets and outdoor sitting areas for the most privacy. Some of the additional multi-generation features include: large kitchen & pantry with added cabinet space, the elder's suite includes sitting area, built in desk, ADA bathroom, large storage space and private lanai. Raised study with Murphy bed, In-home theater with snack and drink station, laundry room with custom dog shower and workshop with bathroom all make their dreams complete! Everything in this home has a place and a purpose: the family, guests, and even the puppies! . . . #salcedohomes #multigenerational #multigenerationalliving #multigeneration #multigenerationhome #nextgeneration #nextgenerationhomes #motherinlawsuite #builder #customhomebuilder #buildnew #newconstruction #newconstructionhomes #dfwhomes #dfwbuilder #familybusiness #family #gatesatwatersedge #oakpointbuilder #littleelmbuilder #texasbuilder #faithfamilyandbeautifulhomes #2020focus

Modern Citi Group recently collaborated with Amelia and Jeremy to reimagine their newly purchased Junior-4 apartment with a complete remodel. This exciting renovation transformed the layout to add a second bedroom, a full second bathroom, and an updated kitchen layout. The goal was to create a functional, family-friendly floor plan and a modern, visually appealing space tailored to their lifestyle. Our design team faced the challenge of balancing modern aesthetics with a strict budget. After exploring multiple layout options and visualizations, Amelia and Jeremy chose a design they felt best suited their vision. The construction team brought the design to life, converting the dining room into a second bedroom with a large closet. The kitchen layout was reconfigured to feature an island, additional storage, and ergonomic functionality. We transformed a powder room into a full second bathroom with a walk-in shower and re-purposed the walk-in closet off the primary bedroom into a home office with a built-in desk. Our professionals refinished floors, walls, and ceilings, upgraded plumbing and electrical systems, and installed additional lighting throughout to optimize flow and functionality. The kitchen featured solid wood cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a porcelain tile floor. Neutral gray-blue cabinets complement the Empira White stone and matte black hardware, creating a sleek, fashion-forward space. Both bathrooms were reimagined with luxurious new tiling, stylish fixtures, and upgraded plumbing and lighting. The powder room was converted into a full bathroom with a walk-in shower, featuring Arabescato Marble porcelain tiles and Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue walls to unify the kitchen and bath designs. High-quality fixtures from Delta and Kohler added a refined touch. In just a few short months, Modern Citi Group transformed an outdated apartment into a sleek, modern home. The remodel beautifully combines style, comfort, and functionality, creating a space that's both elevated and efficient.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

Casa Noir is a case study in quiet luxury, defined by its pared-down design, monochromatic color palette, and elegant, intentional material choices. Gray plaster walls carry a monolithic quality throughout the space, softened by the hand-troweled texture of roman clay, lending a sense of place to the primary suite. Unique material choices with subtle organic textures add a sense of aliveness to the purposefully subdued space

Large 1950s master black tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile, black floor and double-sink bathroom photo in St Louis with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops and a floating vanity

This historic home was in need of a more functional kitchen and needed more purposeful storage. We removed walls and relocated doors to make this a more open kitchen and primary bathroom which had a step down that had no place there. We added as much cabinetry with a proper pantry cabinet, pull out trash and plenty of base cabinets with drawers to make sure everything was seen and accessible. This 100 year old house was well kept but over the decades the house was feeling more compartmentalized than the homeowner wanted. Useless hallways and doors that didn't need to be there. We wanted some color without being too bold, a soft green for the kitchen and a modern large hex floor tile gave us color this house was asking for. We went with a low maintenance porcelain backsplash tile in a tone on tone white for a more handmade look. Paired with a durable quartz countertop for lots of cooking and entertaining. The old kitchen was missing enough counter space so we almost tripled it with a little re-design on my end. The original windows were stripped down and stained for a more craftsman look and we carried that wood into the beverage bar area with some shelves. This home truly has transformed into a more functional and beautiful space!

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This project started out as a kitchen remodel but ended up as so much more. As the original plan started to take shape, some water damage provided the impetus to remodel a small upstairs hall bath. Once this bath was complete, the homeowners enjoyed the result so much that they decided to set aside the kitchen and complete a large master bath remodel. Once that was completed, we started planning for the kitchen! The original kitchen was just large enough to accommodate an island and a separate pantry but felt a little cramped, especially during the weekends when the couple likes to entertain. The primary goal was to maintain the functionality of the current space, but to add some breathing room as well as to provide a view to the homeowner’s side yard and substantial Hosta garden. The solution was to bump out the space about 10 feet which provided ample room for large pro appliances, a large island for gathering and an upgraded pantry space. It was important to the homeowners to create a space that felt like it belonged in their historic 1866 home. Details such as matching new trim to the existing large custom profiles in the original home and re-purposing an existing door to be used for the new pantry, provided these touches. A large window at the main sink provides that view into the yard and a beautiful focal point for the room. A mix of painted wood and stained cabinetry gives the new kitchen a sense of belonging in the older home, as do the Super White quartzite that has the look of marble, subway tile backsplash, polished nickel lanterns and glass and mirrored doors. The large pantry, filled with custom shelving built to the homeowner’s specifications, stainless steel appliances and the two Galley Workstations – sinks that do double duty as prep space – ensure that not only does the kitchen look great, but also functions in a personalized manner that works perfectly for the occupants. Doing the bump out also allowed the opportunity for a small mudroom and powder room right off the kitchen as well as re-arranging some openings to allow for better traffic flow throughout the entire first floor. The result is a comfortable up-to-date home that feels both steeped in history yet allows for today’s style of living. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This home is the American Dream! How perfect that we get to celebrate it on the 4th of July weekend ?? 4,104 Total AC SQFT with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 4-car garages with a Rustic Contemporary Multi-Generational Design. This home has 2 primary suites on either end of the home with their own 5-piece bathrooms, walk-in closets and outdoor sitting areas for the most privacy. Some of the additional multi-generation features include: large kitchen & pantry with added cabinet space, the elder's suite includes sitting area, built in desk, ADA bathroom, large storage space and private lanai. Raised study with Murphy bed, In-home theater with snack and drink station, laundry room with custom dog shower and workshop with bathroom all make their dreams complete! Everything in this home has a place and a purpose: the family, guests, and even the puppies! . . . #salcedohomes #multigenerational #multigenerationalliving #multigeneration #multigenerationhome #nextgeneration #nextgenerationhomes #motherinlawsuite #builder #customhomebuilder #buildnew #newconstruction #newconstructionhomes #dfwhomes #dfwbuilder #familybusiness #family #gatesatwatersedge #oakpointbuilder #littleelmbuilder #texasbuilder #faithfamilyandbeautifulhomes #2020focus

With purpose in mind, the primary bathroom was transformed into a spa-like retreat. Dated wallpaper was removed and replaced with soothing cream color paint and gold fixtures. The bathroom features copious linen storage, a walk-in shower, and his and her vanities that are custom designed with dark maple Dura Supreme cabinetry in a Java finish and topped with Crema Marfil marble countertops. Elegant touches include: -Brilliance Luxe Gold faucets -A Vibrant Gold Chandelier by Crystorama -Double-wall brass sconces by Mariana Home -Gold framed mirrors

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

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.