Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

This kitchen renovation masterfully pairs white Shaker cabinetry with a dark island for a timeless, high-contrast look. Brass pulls and pendant lights provide a sophisticated glow, perfectly complementing the Calacatta Bologna quartz countertops. The design prioritizes bespoke utility, featuring professional-grade appliances and a dedicated bar unit with matte black mullion glass doors and open wood floating shelves. It is a refined, functional space that serves as the modern heart of the home. Project designed by Chi Renovation & Design, a renowned renovation firm based in Skokie. We specialize in general contracting, kitchen and bath remodeling, and design & build services. We cater to the entire Chicago area and its surrounding suburbs, with emphasis on the North Side and North Shore regions. You'll find our work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and all the way up to Lake Forest. For more info about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Bathroom - modern beige floor, double-sink and vaulted ceiling bathroom idea in San Francisco with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink, white countertops and a floating vanity

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

This much-beloved home had been lived in for decades, and had seen its family grow and children leave. The now empty-nester homeowners decided it was time for a change. The floor plan was updated to prioritize a larger family room and more efficient use of space for the back-of-house functions. The family room is now large enough for the whole extended family to visit, while the re-invented study is graced with custom built-ins. The first floor has a comfortable back entry with a large mudroom and laundry room that can be closed off, and the hall bathroom has been re-arranged for a more comfortable guest experience. Circulation spaces have been reworked for greater efficiency and ease of movement. High quality materials and custom detailing have been used throughout, and the best elements have been enhanced. A new, timeless aesthetic reigns supreme, both polished and comfortable. This once tired home is now ready to be loved for years to come.

Bedroom in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS

Completed in 2015, the Othello House was designed by PRDG Architecture + Design and built by Better Builders as a striking example of modern living in West Seattle. Though the homeowners chose not to pursue formal certification, the project was built to meet the rigorous standards of a Five-Star Built Green™ home. From the ground up, sustainability and style were equally prioritized. The build preserved native vegetation, retained mature trees on-site, exceeded Washington State Energy Code requirements, and recycled over 70% of construction waste by weight. Recycled-content materials were thoughtfully incorporated throughout, reinforcing the home’s eco-conscious foundation. Large windows on all sides flood the interiors with natural light, while the surrounding landscaping is designed to highlight lush greenery and native plantings. The result is a home that combines premium modern design with environmental responsibility—proving that sustainable construction can also deliver the ultimate in comfort and function.

Behind the scenes of this Cherry Hills Village remodel, our team worked meticulously to highlight the natural beauty of Crystallo Quartzite while balancing warmth and contemporary minimalism. The kitchen became the heart of the project, with a bookmatched Crystallo Quartzite waterfall island that required precision templating and seamless mitered edges to create a floating stone appearance. We paired it with soft oak cabinetry and integrated appliances to keep the space feeling open and clean, letting the quartzite’s subtle veining take center stage. In the living room, the double-height ceilings and expansive windows brought in Colorado’s natural light, while the sleek black fireplace and designer lighting created a sophisticated focal point. We carefully coordinated stone details with the design team to ensure flow and cohesion throughout. The bathroom’s backlit onyx steam shower was a technical feat, requiring custom support and LED installation to achieve an even glow that transforms the space into a spa retreat. Every tile cut and seam placement was strategized to align the onyx’s natural patterns, making the steam shower both functional and a piece of art. Throughout this project, we prioritized craftsmanship, precision, and clear communication with the homeowners, designers, and trades. From slab selection to the final polish, each detail was approached with intention to bring this refined, organic modern home to life.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Santa Barbara Coastal in Ravenna, Ohio, effortlessly balances classic-inspired architectural details with modern design elements. It is no wonder the Santa Barbara floor plan is a homeowner favorite, engineered with an open-concept layout that naturally keeps the entire family connected. The main living zone features a dramatic flat-peak cathedral ceiling stretching across both the great room and kitchen, adding an incredibly spacious, light-filled, and airy volume to the home's core. Designed for culinary efficiency, the kitchen boasts a massive walk-in pantry with a window, flooding the storage space with natural light so checking inventory before making a grocery list is completely effortless. Just off the main living area, an adaptive flex room stands open to your interpretation—easily functioning as a sophisticated formal dining room, private flexible home office, music room, or children's playroom depending on your lifestyle needs. The thoughtful architecture acts as a private sanctuary when it is time to unwind, showcasing a secluded owner's retreat that shines with premium interior lighting and its own elegant cathedral ceilings. Prioritizing ultimate convenience and daily flow, the suite features a highly innovative layout: a direct laundry room pass-through door connecting the main laundry room straight into the owner's expansive walk-in closet. Completing this primary oasis, the deluxe owner's bath is beautifully appointed with a custom tile shower and dual vanities, creating a spa-like, get-away-from-it-all retreat right at home.

Our client sought to modernize their classic 1970s home while preserving its original charm. This full-home renovation prioritized openness and functionality. We transformed the kitchen into a bright, welcoming space, leveled the sunken living room to expand the living area, and designed seamless indoor-outdoor connections to showcase breathtaking south-west facing golf course & ocean views. The result? A beautifully updated home that harmonizes mid-century character with contemporary comfort. The architecture was fun to work with, featuring dramatic roof pitches, a striking two-story double-sided fireplace, and thoughtfully designed room-to-room connections. Strategic wall cutouts and varying floor levels added interest and character, making this home a truly unique and dynamic space. The kitchen connects to the exterior, dining room, and living room, and features a peninsula and a cozy morning nook for gathering. Thoughtful flow was essential for this busy space, creating distinct yet harmonious spaces to enjoy throughout the home. Texture was thoughtfully incorporated using natural materials, including quartzite with cloud-like movement, woven light fixtures, and high-variation ceramic tile. The oak flooring, rich with knots and striking grain patterns, adds warmth and character to the space.

When designing a kitchen, we prioritize our clients’ functional needs while seamlessly blending form and style to create a harmonious space. Project Central is a perfect example of this philosophy, incorporating vibrant greens to establish a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Our mission is to craft spaces that not only meet but surpass our clients’ expectations, delivering a sanctuary they’ll love and enjoy for years to come. Large stainless steel backsplash, floating shelves, back hood

This interior design project focuses on creating a multifunctional space that balances study, relaxation, and play for our young client. Inspired by her love of blue, we incorporated calming hues throughout the room to promote a serene atmosphere. We prioritized natural light, allowing the beauty of her suburban surroundings to enhance the space. Functional furniture enables smooth transitions between studying and relaxing, while cozy nooks invite comfort and creativity. Personal touches, such as custom artwork featuring her favorite wildlife and decor reflecting her personality, make this space unique. We have transformed her room into a wellness-centered chic retreat that nurtures her academic pursuits and personal joy.

This sophisticated small backyard design by Alterra Landscape Design perfectly demonstrates luxurious outdoor living. Our landscape architects maximized the space with a stunning covered patio, featuring a warm wood pergola, integrated lighting, and a ceiling fan for year-round comfort. The layout prioritizes livability by creating distinct, functional zones for both comfortable lounging and dining, all set on modern large-format paving. This elegant design turns a compact yard into a premium home extension.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Kitchen in Bronco Revival | Key Feature: A warm, masculine, family-friendly Scottsdale home refresh designed to function as both a lived-in family space and a design showroom, blending current trends with timeless style. Challenge: The main challenge was maintaining a cohesive design while replacing underperforming elements from a previous installation, all within an existing architectural framework. Additional hurdles included sourcing pieces that worked with existing furniture, finding properly scaled rugs for large North Scottsdale rooms, ensuring correct counter stool height for a substantial 3-inch stone slab island, and coordinating the timeline around photography/videography schedules and local contractor availability. Solution: We approached the refresh strategically by preserving the strongest existing elements while updating key furnishings and finishes to create a warmer, more sophisticated look. New vendor relationships and products were tested before specifying for broader client use, while all selections prioritized durability for an active family lifestyle. Timeline flexibility became a creative advantage, allowing for an unconventional beam wallpaper application that ultimately became a signature design moment. Our construction management ensured seamless coordination across trades throughout the Scottsdale area. Materials: Moss Studio- Sofa + Pillows | Coffee tables by MadeGoods: Davion Coffee Tables – sculptural mango wood with rich texture | Performance rugs by Loloi: High-traffic wool construction perfect for pets and children | Custom drapery fabric by Schumacher: Premium textiles maintaining original custom window treatments | Drapery hardware by Hesler Brothers | Palmer Industries - | Sun Lighting - Chandeliers, Table Lamps, Pendants | Budget ($ Range): $75-$100K | Timeline (Duration): 3 months

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.

Kid Bedroom in Bronco | Key Feature: A Scottsdale new-build rooted in sculptural modernism, Bronco Revival balances bold black-and-white contrast with organic textures, natural wood elements, and statement lighting. As a groundbreaking “Live Lab” designer residence, it’s a first-of-its-kind space where luxury furnishings are tested in real-world conditions before being introduced into high-profile client homes. Challenge: Because Bronco Revival was the designer’s personal residence, the project carried a unique level of pressure and intention. The challenge was creating a Scottsdale new-build that felt elevated and editorial while still functioning as a true family home. Every selection had to balance bold sculptural modernism (high contrast, statement lighting, architectural furnishings) with durability, comfort, and day-to-day livability. In addition, the home served as a “Live Lab,” meaning new vendors, materials, and luxury furnishings needed to be tested in real-life conditions before being trusted for future high-profile client projects. Solution: We approached the project with a highly curated, test-and-refine design strategy, treating each space as both a finished interior and a real-world evaluation environment. Key furnishings, textiles, and materials were selected to support the modern organic vision while also standing up to the demands of everyday family life. We worked through selections intentionally, layering in bold contrast, natural woods, and sculptural statement pieces, while prioritizing performance materials, pet-friendly durability, and timeless foundational elements. By using the home as a lived-in showroom, we were able to validate what truly performs beautifully, refine our vendor relationships, and confidently carry those proven selections into future client designs. Materials: MadeGoods: Sculptural Davion coffee tables | Loloi: Custom performance rug collection | Schumacher: Bespoke drapery fabrication | Aesthetic Wall Coverings: Pioneering wallpaper application on ceiling beams | Zac + Fox: Exclusive textile collaboration via Made Resource Group | Budget ($ Range): $300K | Timeline (Duration): 4 MONTHS