This 10,000 sf townhouse sits on one of Manhattan’s most beautiful Upper East Side streets and so the goal of the project was to return the house to its original grandeur. Previously a Kips Bay designer showcase house, the rooms were each designed in a differing style and therefore the lack of cohesion and flow made the house seem choppy. In addition, much of the interior was superficial in the sense that plumbing fixtures were not all connected, walls were “false walls” built in front of existing and much of the construction had to be rebuilt. The scope included creating a large gourmet kitchen in the rear of the ground floor by closing off the winding corridor and creating a new door opening centered on the main entry hall with a paneled arched pocket door mimicking the original detailing of the parlor floor. The kitchen has a Calacatta Gold stone center island and dinning area flanked by counters that run the length of the east and west walls with glass front upper cabinets. A built-in buffet on the south wall anchors the space. A mud room, with access to the delivery entrance and additional storage space was added off the kitchen. A new slim profile steel and glass French door provides access to a new steel rear deck and stairs to the rear yard. On the second floor, a new tile floor was added throughout and RRA designed new stone mantle pieces fabricated from England in the living and dining rooms. On the 3rd floor, a new wall was constructed in the 11’ wide central hallway to allow a new 135 sf master closet with custom designed built-in storage units and accessories. This concept was carried through to the 4th floor on a smaller scale and 4 new storage closets were added in the hallway. The existing bathroom on the 4th Floor was gutted and redesigned including a new 5’x5’ extra deep soaking tub and new fixtures. Silver travertine tiles were used throughout to give the room a durable, waterproof finish while also providing a warm, luxurious feel. The 5th floor was converted into a playroom and TV room for the family’s two young children and was outfitted with chalkboard paint along the entire east wall in the play area and a bold color block wall treatment in the TV room. A new cork floor was installed for durability and resilience to lots of activity yet providing a soft and sustainable floor treatment for its intended user. A full laundry room was also created floor with new cabinetry, plumbing, and floor and wall tile. Additionally, 3 full baths and a powder room were refitted with tumbled travertine tiles on the top two floors. The exterior of the building was refurbished and new lighting and painted doors and frames were installed in accordance with Landmark designation. An additional challenge on the project was that a previously built extension on the PH level was illegally overbuilt and the property had received a violation. A 9 month process of filing drawings, completing zoning analyses and meetings with the DOB Commissioners ensued to get the extension approved allowing us to obtain a permit for the remainder of the work and complete the Certificate of Occupancy. In spite of the complex process and scattered program, the completed townhouse has a cohesive aesthetic throughout, with upgraded amenities befitting this grand representation of elite New York living.

Patrice's Bathroom. I enjoyed developing the details of the tub platform extending through the frameless glass and becoming the shower seat.I had hoped that the tile in the shower would have extended out of the shower and become the backsplash, but that part of the design was not developed at Halpern Architects. One of the challenges of doing an Extreme Makeover house is developing details that can be field assembled quickly. In this case, working with Nationwide Homes, the modular home company that built "The boxes", a range of details were developed to make things easier. The tub and surround was installed By Nationwide. To facilitate connections and service without the visual or technical complications of an access panel, access was provided from below. Throughout the design process, I had insisted that all of the plumbing, mechanical and electrical connections occur in the crawlspace, allowing the work to continue without crowding the interior of the house. Many of the time saving details were worked out through a great working relationship between Fusion Custom Homes, who was the general contractor, Nationwide Homes, who was the modular home manufacturer, and Halpern Architects.The crawlspace was constructed taller than usual with nearly full standing headroom and a full height access door was provided from the exterior, allowing workman to come and go at will, without having to enter the house. This also allowed multiple trades to stock the job and work at the same time.

This contemporary custom home was designed to emphasize clean architectural lines, expansive natural light, and a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor living spaces. Large floor-to-ceiling windows, elevated outdoor decks, and carefully balanced exterior materials help create a modern aesthetic while still feeling warm and livable within the surrounding Pacific Northwest landscape. The homeowners played a significant role throughout the design process, working closely with Pacific Home Source to shape the overall layout, functionality, and architectural direction of the home. Every space was thoughtfully considered to support both everyday living and entertaining, while maximizing views, openness, and natural light throughout the residence. The project combines modern design principles with practical family-focused living, resulting in a home that feels refined, comfortable, and highly personalized to the clients’ vision. From the dramatic glazing and open living areas to the seamless outdoor integration, this residence reflects a collaborative design process and a shared commitment to creating a timeless contemporary Northwest home.

Welcome to a newly built home in Redwood City, crafted from the ground up with over 25 years of skilled construction expertise. Original home was demolished. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to meet city standards, limitations, and requirements—resulting in a residence that feels light, crisp, and deeply connected to nature. Wood floors run throughout the home, creating warmth and continuity from the moment you step inside. *Entry & Living Spaces* As you enter through the clean, modern 8-foot door—perfectly aligned with the 9-foot ceiling—you’re greeted by a bright, open feel. The living room centers around a custom fireplace clad in artistic tile, paired with a built-in TV stand. Directly across, double sliding doors invite natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The entire home enjoys a ceiling of 9' with a combination of vaulted ceiling in the primary bedroom. *Kitchen – The Heart of the Home* The kitchen is the true centerpiece. Designed with an open concept and surrounded by generous windows, it features quartz on both the countertops and full-height walls for a luxurious, cohesive aesthetic. A large island—topped with a full slab of quartz—anchors the room, offering extra space between the island and main counters for comfortable movement and entertainment. Two elegant clear pendant lights highlight its presence. Outfitted with top-tier luxury appliances designed for both performance and visual refinement. White cabinetry keeps the look clean and minimalist, while oversized drawers provide functional storage for cooking utensils. The induction cooktop, paired with a pot filler, reinforces the modern and streamlined design. A double oven and an almost-hidden pantry maintain the sleek look, keeping the focus on the kitchen’s architecture and flow. Mudroom & Dining Area Adjacent to the kitchen is a mudroom with a charming barn door leading toward the garage. A half-wall accent features eccentric black-and-white tile, complemented by bold black fixtures. A small custom hidden closet maximizes storage while maintaining a refined appearance. The dining room, open and airy, continues the wood flooring and is adorned with stylish pendant lighting—perfect for gatherings and everyday meals. The wide, open staircase is fully exposed to the dining area and first floor, creating a striking architectural feature that visually connects the spaces. Its modern wood-and-metal design contributes to the home’s open flow while serving as a sculptural centerpiece within the main living level. *Bedrooms & Laundry* Guest and secondary bedrooms are bright and inviting, each with multiple windows framed in sleek black for a modern edge. Every bedroom enjoys its own bathroom, offering comfort and privacy. A compact but well-designed laundry room includes a sink and drying rack, making smart use of space. The second story features an open layout with wide hallways, enhancing the sense of space and natural flow. This home also includes an office and one of the bedrooms is used for a workout space. *Primary Suite* Set apart from the other bedrooms for privacy, the primary suite is a luxurious retreat. An accent wall adds character, while a large walk-in closet offers abundant storage. A skylight fills the room with natural light, enhancing the open, breathable atmosphere. *Bathrooms* Each bathroom was thoughtfully designed with its own personality: - Primary bathroom: The primary bathroom embraces a concrete-inspired look, featuring dual sinks and a spacious shower with double-sided niches—one for each person. An LED makeup mirror adds functional elegance. - Second bathroom: Gray cabinet, tile wall, black fixtures, frameless shower door, and a striking floral tile accent. - Third bathroom: White cabinets, gold fixtures, white tile floors, a shower stall, and a bold green tile feature wall with a large niche. - Fourth bathroom: Blue cabinet, gray tile floors, a tub with frameless shower door, and gray wall tiles paired with sleek chrome fixtures. - Powder Room: Half wall crown molding with black tile design and fixtures. *Exterior & Landscape* The planning process also emphasized low-maintenance landscape design, using easy-care plants that enhance the home’s natural feel without demanding constant upkeep. The home is also equipped with a dedicated EV charging station and solar panels, supporting energy efficiency and modern sustainable living.

Located in the outskirts of Alajuela, Coyol is a humid weather area full of lush green land-scapes and stunning views. The clients were looking for a house able to integrate public areas, front, and backyard within one single space. Twix House is conceptualized by two main curved dynamic shapes, which create one whole. Two twin L-shaped volumes are looking to opposite sides: sunrise facade and sunset facade, resulting in an S-shaped form of the entire house. Both contain the main and secondary bedrooms of the house, giving them unique views of the Central Valley mountains. The main access entrance opens onto a double height lobby, crossed by the bridge in the center, and a curved staircase to the left. The main public area has a double height space, which is an open plan, containing the living room, dining room, and a kitchen. These spaces are connected by slid-ing doors that lead to the terrace, becoming a key element of the house, transforming the social areas and allowing for direct communication between indoor and outdoor spaces. The private areas of the house are located on the second floor: two bedrooms and a second living room. These are connected by a third volume, which is an interior bridge, articulating the house and integrating all the downstairs and upstairs areas together. Due to the particularities of the climate zone, a special attention had to be paid to ensuring that the house remains fresh. Therefore, as a part of the process, different passive design strategies for tropical climate areas were implemented. For instance, the roof of the bridge overlaps the rest of the roof creating a gap, which acts as a monitor letting the hot air leave. Apart from that, the orientation of the building allows for cross ventilation to take place, resulting in cool and refreshing temperatures in-doors, despite the daily tropical heat.

Inspired by this Arvada kitchen renovation? Our design process blends refined materials, custom details, and thoughtful space planning to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. For clients seeking a luxury kitchen remodel with warmth, elegance, and everyday ease, this bespoke custom kitchen, project "Nest and Nurture" is a beautiful example of what is possible when design is tailored to the way a family truly lives. This kitchen was designed to support the rhythm of modern family living while honoring timeless, elevated craftsmanship. This transitional kitchen began as a structural redesign, requiring engineering expertise to open up the heart of the home and create a more connected, light-filled space where cooking, gathering, hosting, and everyday routines could happen with ease. The result is a warm and highly functional luxury kitchen layered with enduring materials and thoughtful details. Rich walnut cabinetry brings depth and natural character, while Taj Mahal quartzite countertops introduce soft movement, creamy warmth, and refined elegance. Brushed brass hardware, plumbing, and lighting add a tailored glow throughout the space, balancing the organic wood tones with a polished, sophisticated finish. Durable ceramic tile completes the palette, offering texture, practicality, and timeless appeal. Designed with both beauty and convenience in mind, this Arvada kitchen remodel features bespoke storage solutions crafted around the family’s daily life. Custom pull-outs, hidden organizational systems, specialty cookware storage, integrated towel storage, and finely crafted cabinetry create a kitchen that feels effortless to use and beautiful from every angle. Every detail was designed to reduce clutter, improve flow, and make the kitchen work harder without sacrificing style. With its blend of classic detailing, modern openness, and fashion-forward functionality, Nest and Nurture reflects a truly elevated approach to transitional kitchen design. This renovation transformed the home into a more generous, welcoming, and highly personalized space—one built for connection, comfort, and the everyday rituals that make a house feel deeply lived in.

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan. The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life. Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection. “From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said. The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process. “Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous." After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there. Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances. The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in. "Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together." The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years. Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space. Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family. “The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said. “Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan. The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life. Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection. “From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said. The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process. “Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous." After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there. Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances. The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in. "Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together." The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years. Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space. Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family. “The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said. “Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

JDBG is wrapping up work on an expansive 2-story sunroom addition that also included modifications to the existing home’s interior and significant exterior improvements as well. The original project brief was to provide a conditioned 4-season sunroom addition where the homeowners could relax and enjoy their wooded views. As we delved deeper into our client’s overall objectives, it became clear that this would be no ordinary sunroom addition. The resulting 16’x25’ sunroom is a showstopper with 10’ high ceilings and wall to wall windows offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. As we recommend with most addition projects, the process started with our Preliminary Design Study to determine project goals, design concepts, project feasibility and associated budget estimates. During this process, our design team worked to ensure that both interior and exterior were fully integrated. We conducted in-depth programming to identify key goals and needs which would inform the design and performed a field survey and zoning analysis to identify any constraints that could impact the plans. The next step was to develop conceptual designs that addressed the program requirements. Using a combination of 3-D massing, interior/exterior renderings, precedent imaging and space planning, the design concept was revised and refined. At the end of the study we had an approved schematic design and comprehensive budget estimates for the 2-story addition and were ready to move into design development, construction documentation, trade coordination, and final pricing. A complex project such as this involves architectural and interior design, structural and civil engineering, landscape design and environmental considerations. Multiple trades and subs are engaged during construction, from HVAC to electrical and plumbing, framers, carpenters and masons, roofers and painters just to name a few. JDBG was there every step of the way to ensure quality construction. Other notable features of the renovation included expanding the home’s existing dining room, incorporating a custom ‘dish room,’ and providing fully conditioned storage and his & her workrooms on the lower level. A new front portico will visually connect the old and new structures and a brand new roof, shutters and paint will further transform the exterior. Thoughtful planning was also given to the landscape, including a back deck, stone patio and walkways, plantings and exterior lighting. Stay tuned for more photos as this sunroom addition nears completion.

Inspired by this Arvada kitchen renovation? Our design process blends refined materials, custom details, and thoughtful space planning to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. For clients seeking a luxury kitchen remodel with warmth, elegance, and everyday ease, this bespoke custom kitchen, project "Nest and Nurture" is a beautiful example of what is possible when design is tailored to the way a family truly lives. This kitchen was designed to support the rhythm of modern family living while honoring timeless, elevated craftsmanship. This transitional kitchen began as a structural redesign, requiring engineering expertise to open up the heart of the home and create a more connected, light-filled space where cooking, gathering, hosting, and everyday routines could happen with ease. The result is a warm and highly functional luxury kitchen layered with enduring materials and thoughtful details. Rich walnut cabinetry brings depth and natural character, while Taj Mahal quartzite countertops introduce soft movement, creamy warmth, and refined elegance. Brushed brass hardware, plumbing, and lighting add a tailored glow throughout the space, balancing the organic wood tones with a polished, sophisticated finish. Durable ceramic tile completes the palette, offering texture, practicality, and timeless appeal. Designed with both beauty and convenience in mind, this Arvada kitchen remodel features bespoke storage solutions crafted around the family’s daily life. Custom pull-outs, hidden organizational systems, specialty cookware storage, integrated towel storage, and finely crafted cabinetry create a kitchen that feels effortless to use and beautiful from every angle. Every detail was designed to reduce clutter, improve flow, and make the kitchen work harder without sacrificing style. With its blend of classic detailing, modern openness, and fashion-forward functionality, Nest and Nurture reflects a truly elevated approach to transitional kitchen design. This renovation transformed the home into a more generous, welcoming, and highly personalized space—one built for connection, comfort, and the everyday rituals that make a house feel deeply lived in.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

As a first step in this project, we completely demolished the existing, very overgrown, and outdated landscape. The owner desired a custom-designed fire pit and patio, oriented toward their primary view corridor. The need to connect a secondary access off the back of their home to the primary access off their family room led us to create a sand-finish concrete walkway that connected the former to their new sand-finish concrete dining patio. In the process, we created a very nice planting area to soften up and beautify the back of the house. We utilized a segmental wall block system to create a seat wall around the patio, helping to create a sense of containment in the space and providing extra seating for larger gatherings. Concealed wall lights helped lend a feeling of welcome to the space’s after-dark use. A set of offset cedar screens offers a creative way to hide a utility area without a gate. We used a complementary-colored concrete mow curb as a bed divider and planted a Japanese Golden Rain Tree to provide future shade for our client. We filled out the rest of the landscaping with Arctic Fire Dogwood, Winter Gem Boxwood, Blue Avena Grass, Stella d’Oro Day Lily, and a specimen Burning Bush.

Located in the outskirts of Alajuela, Coyol is a humid weather area full of lush green land-scapes and stunning views. The clients were looking for a house able to integrate public areas, front, and backyard within one single space. Twix House is conceptualized by two main curved dynamic shapes, which create one whole. Two twin L-shaped volumes are looking to opposite sides: sunrise facade and sunset facade, resulting in an S-shaped form of the entire house. Both contain the main and secondary bedrooms of the house, giving them unique views of the Central Valley mountains. The main access entrance opens onto a double height lobby, crossed by the bridge in the center, and a curved staircase to the left. The main public area has a double height space, which is an open plan, containing the living room, dining room, and a kitchen. These spaces are connected by slid-ing doors that lead to the terrace, becoming a key element of the house, transforming the social areas and allowing for direct communication between indoor and outdoor spaces. The private areas of the house are located on the second floor: two bedrooms and a second living room. These are connected by a third volume, which is an interior bridge, articulating the house and integrating all the downstairs and upstairs areas together. Due to the particularities of the climate zone, a special attention had to be paid to ensuring that the house remains fresh. Therefore, as a part of the process, different passive design strategies for tropical climate areas were implemented. For instance, the roof of the bridge overlaps the rest of the roof creating a gap, which acts as a monitor letting the hot air leave. Apart from that, the orientation of the building allows for cross ventilation to take place, resulting in cool and refreshing temperatures in-doors, despite the daily tropical heat.

This 10,000 sf townhouse sits on one of Manhattan’s most beautiful Upper East Side streets and so the goal of the project was to return the house to its original grandeur. Previously a Kips Bay designer showcase house, the rooms were each designed in a differing style and therefore the lack of cohesion and flow made the house seem choppy. In addition, much of the interior was superficial in the sense that plumbing fixtures were not all connected, walls were “false walls” built in front of existing and much of the construction had to be rebuilt. The scope included creating a large gourmet kitchen in the rear of the ground floor by closing off the winding corridor and creating a new door opening centered on the main entry hall with a paneled arched pocket door mimicking the original detailing of the parlor floor. The kitchen has a Calacatta Gold stone center island and dinning area flanked by counters that run the length of the east and west walls with glass front upper cabinets. A built-in buffet on the south wall anchors the space. A mud room, with access to the delivery entrance and additional storage space was added off the kitchen. A new slim profile steel and glass French door provides access to a new steel rear deck and stairs to the rear yard. On the second floor, a new tile floor was added throughout and RRA designed new stone mantle pieces fabricated from England in the living and dining rooms. On the 3rd floor, a new wall was constructed in the 11’ wide central hallway to allow a new 135 sf master closet with custom designed built-in storage units and accessories. This concept was carried through to the 4th floor on a smaller scale and 4 new storage closets were added in the hallway. The existing bathroom on the 4th Floor was gutted and redesigned including a new 5’x5’ extra deep soaking tub and new fixtures. Silver travertine tiles were used throughout to give the room a durable, waterproof finish while also providing a warm, luxurious feel. The 5th floor was converted into a playroom and TV room for the family’s two young children and was outfitted with chalkboard paint along the entire east wall in the play area and a bold color block wall treatment in the TV room. A new cork floor was installed for durability and resilience to lots of activity yet providing a soft and sustainable floor treatment for its intended user. A full laundry room was also created floor with new cabinetry, plumbing, and floor and wall tile. Additionally, 3 full baths and a powder room were refitted with tumbled travertine tiles on the top two floors. The exterior of the building was refurbished and new lighting and painted doors and frames were installed in accordance with Landmark designation. An additional challenge on the project was that a previously built extension on the PH level was illegally overbuilt and the property had received a violation. A 9 month process of filing drawings, completing zoning analyses and meetings with the DOB Commissioners ensued to get the extension approved allowing us to obtain a permit for the remainder of the work and complete the Certificate of Occupancy. In spite of the complex process and scattered program, the completed townhouse has a cohesive aesthetic throughout, with upgraded amenities befitting this grand representation of elite New York living.

How AI is Revolutionizing Bathroom and Kitchen Renovations in 2025 The renovation industry is entering a new era — and it’s powered by artificial intelligence. For decades, bathroom and kitchen makeovers required weeks of back-and-forth planning, consultations, and budgeting. But in 2025, AI bathroom design and AI kitchen renovation tools are transforming the experience, making it faster, smarter, and far more personalized. A Smarter Way to Renovate Traditional renovation processes are known for being time-consuming and stressful. From collecting measurements to selecting products and coordinating contractors, homeowners are often left overwhelmed. That’s where AI comes in — simplifying every step of the journey. Using platforms like the Allreno app, homeowners can now scan their space with a smartphone, instantly generate a 3D model, and receive personalized layout suggestions. The app’s AI engine automatically recommends styles, color palettes, and materials that match your preferences — saving hours of guesswork. AI Bathroom Design: A Game-Changer Designing a bathroom used to mean working with spreadsheets, mood boards, and several design consultations. Today, AI bathroom design streamlines this process into minutes. Tools like Allreno analyze space dimensions, plumbing positions, lighting conditions, and user style inputs to generate design proposals that are not only beautiful but also practical and code-compliant. Homeowners can preview their dream bathroom in realistic 3D, adjust fixtures and finishes, and even get instant price estimates — all before a single tile is laid. AI Kitchen Renovation: Built for Speed and Precision AI kitchen renovation takes things even further. AI models can detect where cabinetry fits best, suggest storage optimizations, and align design with ergonomic principles. Whether you’re planning a sleek modern kitchen or a cozy traditional space, AI delivers layouts that balance aesthetics with function. Allreno’s smart design engine can pull directly from product inventories, ensuring the designs you see are not only buildable but immediately available — reducing delays and backorders. Empowering Professionals and Homeowners What makes AI-powered home renovation truly powerful is how it bridges the gap between homeowners and professionals. Contractors, designers, and suppliers can now work with exact specifications and visuals shared directly through platforms like Allreno, eliminating miscommunication and ensuring smoother execution. This also means cost savings. With AI managing space planning, product selection, and budgeting, professionals spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time delivering quality craftsmanship. The Rise of Smart Home Remodels The trend toward smart home remodels is also being fueled by AI. Renovation projects now consider how your bathroom or kitchen connects with your smart lighting, voice assistants, or energy-efficient systems. Allreno helps integrate this tech seamlessly into your renovation plan, future-proofing your investment. Why Allreno Is Leading the AI Renovation Movement The Allreno app is at the forefront of this AI-driven shift. It’s not just a design tool — it’s a full renovation ecosystem. By combining design automation, real-time pricing, local contractor matching, and AI-powered recommendations, Allreno makes renovation as easy as ordering a product online. In a world where speed and personalization are key, Allreno empowers homeowners to take control of their renovation journey — with clarity, confidence, and creativity. Ready to renovate smarter? Try the Allreno app and experience the future of home renovation today.

Raza and Baneen purchased their home in Schaumburg IL. knowing it needed work, but they saw the incredible potential it had with its expanse of beautiful kitchen windows and spacious floor plan. The kitchen technically functioned fine, but was desperately outdated with its honey oak cabinets and plain countertops. This family loved to cook and host parties so it was an easy decision that the kitchen remodel was the first project they needed to tackle to make their home come to life. Baneen had very specific ideas for her new dream kitchen and had been thinking about it for over 10 years! When they met Advance Design’s Project Designer Claudia Pop, Baneen felt an instant connection. “From the first meeting, I knew that Claudia would guide us without putting down our ideas,” Baneen said. The couple had two fears common among remodeling home owners: Would the project be done on time? And, would the project stay on budget? Advance Design was able to alleviate their fears early on, as Claudia shared the “Common Sense Remodeling” process. Raza and Baneen absolutely loved the custom project analysis that helped them understand how a budget could be accurately predicted and then safeguarded during the design process. “Advance Design was spot on with both the budget and the project timeframe,” Baneen said. “Overall there were no surprises, and the budget was exactly what we were quoted. The experience was phenomenal, everybody was professional, everybody was courteous, everyone was nice, everyone was friendly. It wasn't stressful for us, they still left the house in a presentable state. It wasn't like we would come home and we were bring the kids in and it was going to be hazardous." After the relationship was cemented, Raza, Baneen and Claudia began to finalize the kitchen design. The main objective was to create a functional space for preparing meals and to create an inviting space for their family and friends to enjoy, while incorporating interesting design elements such as the iconic blue island and reclaimed Chicago brick walls. Sufficient storage space was really important to Baneen, and high quality appliances were a priority. As the overall layout was being completed, together they reviewed each cabinet to determine exactly what would be stored there. Because cooking was a high priority for this family, Claudia incorporated spice racks close to the range and included two mixer lift shelves for their larger countertop appliances. The focal point of the kitchen is the striking blue island constructed from custom colored Dura Supreme cabinets. Designed with decorative shelving and a highly functional prep sink. The couple loves the “galley” prep sink, it adds even more functionality and significantly shortens preparation and cleaning time. This island also includes a 24" Bosch Dishwasher with matching panel to blend in. "Aesthetically, and in terms of functionality, the island everything I imagined," Baneen said. "I love how beautiful it looks and how functional it is. It just brings everybody together." The Praa Sands Quartz countertop with an ogee edge profile provides excellent contrast by blending it's subtle tones with the outer cabinetry. It ties the island together with the rest of the space. Overlooking the beautiful backyard through spacious windows, the crisp white farmhouse sink is something that Baneen envisioned in her kitchen for years. Two tones of Dura Supreme Cabinetry were used throughout the rest of the kitchen. Chestnut Cherry cabinets grace the range and decorative range hood and as panels over the Wolf refrigerator and freezer. Antique White cabinets surround the perimeter, creating a warm balance that beckons guests into the softly rounded space. Drawing the eye immediately to the custom wood hood hiding a powerful 1,500 CFM ventilation system and spectacular 60” Duel Fuel Wolf range, a creatively patterned Tessen in Café & Brine backsplash detail stands out from the white subway tile backsplash spanning the outer walls. The vibrant space reflects the lively personality of the family who now loves spending time both cooking and enjoying this kitchen as a family. “The end result is a beautiful and extremely functional kitchen that is able to handle a growing family, lots of parties and lots of cooking,” Claudia said. “Advance Design was wonderfully professional and a pleasure to work with. They catered to what my needs and ideas were, while skillfully guiding us to make the right choices where we seemed lost,” Baneen said.

When it comes to finding inspiration for your house or apartment design, there are a variety of routes you can take. For some, it is important to dive into the latest trends in fashion and art, using only the most popular decor pieces and embracing the color palettes seen on runways or in home and garden magazines. But for others, it’s simply about discovering what feels most like “home.” Ashley Steele, the creator of A Styled Affair, was part of the latter group. “Since my husband and I were moving into a space that was previously owned, I needed a way to make it feel like it was truly ours, and unique to us,” she told our team. A Styled Affair sprang from Ashley’s passion for fashion, and need for a creative outlet. But it soon became more than that. She developed a following, and it quickly became a place where she could share her personal style, travel adventures, and lifestyle tips. “While the blogging industry has become overwhelmed with people sharing their favorite home decor or make-up tips, I think what sets A Styled Affair apart is my commitment to stay true to my unique taste. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum – and that carries through in the clothes I wear, the decor I select for our home, and the travels I plan.” Paintzen connected with Ashley as she was settling into her new home in Boston’s Seaport District. Although she and her husband have lived in Boston for almost 8 years, they were used to smaller, more traditional spaces. Their new home is much bigger, and more modern, than any place they lived before. “I wanted to select colors of comfort, simplicity, and sophistication so we could elevate the space and make it feel more like a home.” Ashley also accurately pointed out that new construction can sometimes feel a little cold and sterile, almost industrial. “I wanted our home to feel like a peaceful oasis after coming in from the bustling city.” Ashley chose soft white paint for her walls to bring a sense of comfort and zen. With lots of wall decor, art work and carefully selected furniture, the walls serve as a clean and comfortable palette, and allowed her more freedom when making her other design decisions throughout the space. Ashley kept the overall palette fairly neutral, and incorporated “modern bohemian” inspired decor throughout the home; the final product was clean and simple, and catered to her style. We asked Ashley what she was most excited for now. “I’m most excited to continue to find new decor pieces to compliment the paint colors and decor we’ve already found for the space. We have been really patient with decorating and selected each piece really careful to make sure it is cohesive and flows from room to room. I’m looking forward to enjoying the space with my husband and dog, and entertaining friends and family in the spring and summer!” A few final questions for Ashley on her experience with Paintzen: “I would highly recommend Paintzen to anyone, especially those that live in the city. There are so many different paint companies and contractors to choose from but going through Paintzen simplified the process and made me feel comfortable that we had the right team working on our space. Their platform for booking services and choosing paint colors made the process seamless and was a great way to keep track of what we booked and chose for colors. Most importantly, the customer service team was outstanding whenever we had a question or needed to make an adjustment.” And advice she would give someone repainting their home: “Patience. I would recommend taking your time and doing your research before selecting paint colors. Lighting changes every color so make sure to bring paint swatches and samples into the space and look at it throughout the day to see the different tones that the light will pick up. I would also recommend researching color trends and recommendations for colors in the family you are looking for. We found our living room color through a blog post listing top-used colors by interior designers and it looks amazing.”

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

Davis Stuart Residence A Custom Home by Seven Rivers Design + Build Highlight One of the standout features of the Davis–Stuart Residence is the 20-foot accordion door that opens the living room directly onto a stone patio. Designed and built by Seven Rivers Design + Build, this dramatic opening dissolves the boundary between interior and exterior spaces, creating a unified indoor–outdoor living experience ideal for entertaining, relaxing, and connecting with nature. Detail Thoughtful Custom Home Design in a Private Setting This custom-built, single-story home sits atop a small knoll in a quiet, private landscape. The two-bedroom, two-bath layout emphasizes comfort, efficiency, and flow. At the center of the home, the great room features a wood-burning stone fireplace and opens seamlessly to a spacious flagstone patio, extending daily living into the outdoors. High-Performance Materials & Off-Grid Capability Built for durability and long-term performance, the home features a standing-seam metal roof, fiber-cement board-and-batten siding, and wide-plank hickory flooring throughout. Large Andersen 400 Series windows bring in abundant natural light while framing views of the surrounding landscape. The residence is off-grid, powered by a 13kW solar array (installed prior to Seven Rivers’ involvement), supporting energy independence without compromising comfort or craftsmanship. The Seven Rivers Design + Build Difference The Davis–Stuart Residence reflects Seven Rivers Design + Build’s commitment to thoughtful architecture, high-quality materials, and a seamless design/build process. The result is a modern, resilient home that feels both refined and deeply rooted in its natural setting—crafted to enhance how people live, gather, and connect to place.