Search results for "Prioritizing" in Home Design Ideas

This stunning custom build home is nestled on a picturesque tree-lined street in Oakville. We met the clients at the beginning stages of designing their dream home. Their objective was to design and furnish a home that would suit their lifestyle and family needs. They love to entertain and often host large family gatherings.
Clients wanted a more transitional look and feel for this house. Their previous house was very traditional in style and décor. They wanted to move away from that to a much more transitional style, and they wanted a different colour palette from the previous house. They wanted a lighter and fresher colour scheme for this new house.
Collaborating with Dina Mati, we crafted spaces that prioritize both functionality and timeless aesthetics.
For more about Lumar Interiors, see here: https://www.lumarinteriors.com/
To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.lumarinteriors.com/portfolio/oakville-transitional-home-design

Living Room 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

This kitchen is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform the heart of a home into a warm, inviting sanctuary. By pairing custom sage green lower cabinetry with crisp white shaker uppers, we created a sophisticated two-tone look that feels both modern and timeless. The star of the space is the stunning veined quartzite countertops, which seamlessly tie together the organic tones of the cabinetry with the high-end brass hardware and professional-grade stainless steel appliances.
Every detail was curated for both beauty and functionality—from the charming garden window that floods the space with natural light to the intricate hand-carved wood valance that adds a touch of artisanal character. Whether it’s the convenience of the pot filler over the range or the glow of the under-cabinet lighting, this remodel proves that you don't have to choose between "magazine-ready" style and everyday livability. If you’re looking for a contractor who prioritizes meticulous craftsmanship and personalized design, I’m ready to help you bring your dream kitchen to life.
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Powder Room 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

Reimagining an Urban Classic
Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods.
The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views.
Architecture that Frames the View
At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape.
A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors.
Warm Modern Interiors
Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture.
The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home.
The Social Heart of the Home
The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate.
A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm.
Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond.
Private Retreats Above the City
Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day.
The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility.
Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness.
Spaces for Entertaining
Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts.
These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood
The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape.
Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city.
A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary
The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

This small addition and kitchen remodel reimagines a classic St. Paul home for a growing family—prioritizing natural light, smart function, and modern warmth.
A modest side-yard addition creates space for a mudroom and ¾ bath, carefully positioned to preserve the dining room’s original piano windows. New windows throughout balance light, privacy, and flow.
Inside, custom bleached butternut cabinets and a curved enameled tambour island bring warmth and sculptural contrast. Heated porcelain tile floors extend to a new deck, blending indoors and out. The exterior pairs vertical cedar with dark cement board for a subtle, modern update.
Small in size, big in intention—this project honors the past while supporting the way this family lives now

Living Room 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

This bathroom captures a modern yet timeless appeal with its crisp white tiles, freestanding bathtub, and double vanity. Natural light flows generously through large windows, highlighting the marble detailing and spacious design. Contemporary lighting fixtures add warmth and sophistication, while the expansive mirror creates an airy, open feel. The glass shower enclosure blends seamlessly into the layout, offering a sleek finish. Storage cabinets ensure practicality without compromising aesthetics, making it a well-balanced design that prioritizes both style and functionality. From the refined finishes to the understated elegance, this space is a prime example of a luxury bathroom interior tailored for coastal living. Perfect for a home renovation project, it delivers both comfort and high-end appeal.

Family room - mid-sized craftsman open concept dark wood floor and brown floor family room idea in Other with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

This project started out as a brand new Great Room addition. The design started with the sectional couch and quickly moved to the rug; the focal points of the space. Both are kid friendly yet bring a laid back California sophistication to the room; perfect for both everyday living and entertaining guests. With lots of privacy outside, we decided to forgo any drapery, and as such, the space exudes freshness and openness. Experimenting with different textures, poofs and lamps add a level of warmth to balance out and add depth to the Southern California coolness. With a focus on a welcoming aesthetic, this mini oasis reflects the family's unique style while prioritizing comfort and practicality.

This kitchen is designed around clean lines, natural light, and functional flow, blending modern farmhouse elements with a transitional aesthetic. The space opens seamlessly into the living area, creating a single, cohesive environment ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.
A large waterfall-edge island anchors the room, offering generous prep space and bar seating. The cabinetry is simple and streamlined, finished in a soft white that keeps the space bright and timeless. Quartz countertops provide durability with a refined, stone-like appearance, while the professional-grade range and stainless steel hood add a subtle industrial edge.
Oversized windows and full glass doors bring in strong natural light and connect the interior to the outdoors, reinforcing the open, airy feel. Pendant lighting over the island adds warmth and visual focus without cluttering the space.
The result is a kitchen that prioritizes usability, light, and proportion—built with high-quality materials and a layout that works as well as it looks.

Oftentimes homeowners come to us with an idea of how they want to update their space. Through thoughtful discussion and truly understanding their needs, we develop the perfect plan together. The previous bathroom was burdened with a large jacuzzi tub, an outdated fiberglass shower, and limited open floor space. Our approach started with a simple shower and bath update and evolved into a complete reimagining of the bathroom. We prioritized fluidity and functionality, repositioning plumbing and overhauling the floor plan to create a space that seamlessly marries practicality with design impact.
The new bathroom features a custom knotty alder vanity with toe kick lighting and a sleek quartz countertop. Above, a defogging LED-lit mirror with touch screen controls adds a modern element to the bright and minimal bathroom aesthetic. The new custom shower blends sophistication with accessibility. Simple yet elegant porcelain fluted tiles and glass partitions frame the space, with a low-threshold entrance and strategically placed grab bars to support accessibility. Inside, a custom product niche with cove lighting adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In the end, the reimagined bathroom thoughtfully aligns the homeowner's lifestyle and design preferences.

Reimagining an Urban Classic
Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods.
The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views.
Architecture that Frames the View
At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape.
A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors.
Warm Modern Interiors
Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture.
The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home.
The Social Heart of the Home
The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate.
A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm.
Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond.
Private Retreats Above the City
Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day.
The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility.
Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness.
Spaces for Entertaining
Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts.
These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood
The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape.
Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city.
A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary
The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

This kitchen is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform the heart of a home into a warm, inviting sanctuary. By pairing custom sage green lower cabinetry with crisp white shaker uppers, we created a sophisticated two-tone look that feels both modern and timeless. The star of the space is the stunning veined quartzite countertops, which seamlessly tie together the organic tones of the cabinetry with the high-end brass hardware and professional-grade stainless steel appliances.
Every detail was curated for both beauty and functionality—from the charming garden window that floods the space with natural light to the intricate hand-carved wood valance that adds a touch of artisanal character. Whether it’s the convenience of the pot filler over the range or the glow of the under-cabinet lighting, this remodel proves that you don't have to choose between "magazine-ready" style and everyday livability. If you’re looking for a contractor who prioritizes meticulous craftsmanship and personalized design, I’m ready to help you bring your dream kitchen to life.

Immerse yourself in the epitome of luxury living with this modern and contemporary living room renovation. Designed for high-rise condo living in downtown Nashville, the space boasts sleek concrete flooring that imparts an industrial-chic aesthetic, appealing to homeowners seeking a durable yet stylish foundation for their interiors. Wood-paneled accent walls create visual interest and warmth, providing an organic contrast to the minimalist, urban look.
The ingenious integration of a Murphy door not only saves space but also adds a unique architectural feature, perfect for homeowners prioritizing functionality and storage solutions in their remodel. The living room is further enhanced by modern and contemporary interior design elements, including minimalist furniture and decorative accents that complete the upscale, urban feel. This space offers a flawless blend of sophistication and practicality, ideal for anyone looking to transform their home with luxury renovation trends, innovative storage ideas, and cutting-edge interior design.
Photography by Allison Elefante
Interior Design by Sara Ray Interior Design

Home Office 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.

This kitchen is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform the heart of a home into a warm, inviting sanctuary. By pairing custom sage green lower cabinetry with crisp white shaker uppers, we created a sophisticated two-tone look that feels both modern and timeless. The star of the space is the stunning veined quartzite countertops, which seamlessly tie together the organic tones of the cabinetry with the high-end brass hardware and professional-grade stainless steel appliances.
Every detail was curated for both beauty and functionality—from the charming garden window that floods the space with natural light to the intricate hand-carved wood valance that adds a touch of artisanal character. Whether it’s the convenience of the pot filler over the range or the glow of the under-cabinet lighting, this remodel proves that you don't have to choose between "magazine-ready" style and everyday livability. If you’re looking for a contractor who prioritizes meticulous craftsmanship and personalized design, I’m ready to help you bring your dream kitchen to life.
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