Search results for "Proper functioning" in Home Design Ideas

This bathroom renovation showcases a sleek, modern design with a balance of functionality and style. The entrance features a pocket door, maximizing usable space while maintaining a clean transition into the room. A floating vanity with a wood finish creates a light, airy look, paired with a crisp white integrated sink and complemented by a new artistic mirror with unique geometric edges. Above the vanity, pendant light fixtures provide focused illumination, while new recessed lights brighten the overall space. A discreet yet powerful new fan ensures proper ventilation.
The shower is the centerpiece of the remodel, enclosed with a sliding glass door on matte black hardware. Inside, the shower features a floating bench for comfort and convenience, along with a shampoo niche integrated into the tiled wall a shampoo niche. The shower is equipped with matte black fixtures, including a rain showerhead and handheld wand. The walls are finished with floor-to-ceiling tile, continuing outside the shower to create a seamless, cohesive aesthetic.
The flooring consists of large-format floor tiles, adding durability and a modern touch. The bathroom also includes a new toilet with a sleek, compact profile. Existing cabinetry has been updated through cabinet refacing, blending harmoniously with the floating vanity for consistent style.
Overall, the remodel combines modern finishes with functional upgrades, resulting in a bathroom that is both elegant and efficient.

High-Access Window Replacement – Safely Completed with a 42-Foot Lift
This third-story dormer window was long overdue for replacement — the old unit was damaged, boarded up, and no longer functional. With no safe ladder access and a steep roof pitch, we brought in a lift to get the job done safely and correctly.
What we did:
✔️ Removed the damaged, non-functional window
✔️ Installed a new American Craftsman replacement unit
✔️ Reflashed, sealed, and insulated the opening
✔️ Ensured proper drainage and weather protection
✔️ Completed all work from a high-reach lift for maximum safety
No shortcuts, no risky ladder setups — just safe, professional work executed the right way.
If you have hard-to-reach windows or high-elevation exterior work, we have the equipment and experience to handle it.

"Transform Your Basement with Premium Wallpaper Installation in Cudahy – Where Durable Style Meets Function!"
Turn your underutilized basement into a stunning, inviting space with our expert wallpaper installation services in Cudahy. We specialize in moisture-resistant, long-lasting designs that withstand basement conditions while adding personality and warmth.
Why Cudahy Homeowners Choose Our Basement Wallpaper Services
✔ Moisture-Control Materials – Mold-resistant vinyl perfect for below-ground spaces
✔ Light-Enhancing Designs – Bright patterns to combat basement gloom
✔ Concrete Wall Expertise – Proper surface prep for flawless adhesion
✔ 1-2 Day Transformations – Quick updates with minimal disruption
✔ Free 3D Design Consultation – Visualize your basement makeover
Popular Cudahy Basement Styles
? Entertainment Hub – Theater-themed or bold geometrics for rec rooms
?️ Gym Motivation – Energizing patterns and inspirational quotes
? Speakeasy Chic – Vintage brick or bourbon-barrel textures
? Craft Room Creative – Cheerful prints for creative spaces
Our Hassle-Free Service Includes:
✅ Free Moisture Evaluation – Essential for basement installations
✅ Wall Preparation – Proper sealing for concrete or paneling
✅ Trim & Ceiling Coordination
✅ 3-Year Performance Warranty
Recent Client Praise:
"Turned our damp basement into the family's favorite hangout spot!" – The Lopez Family, Cudahy
Find the right local pro for your project

High-Access Window Replacement – Safely Completed with a 42-Foot Lift
This third-story dormer window was long overdue for replacement — the old unit was damaged, boarded up, and no longer functional. With no safe ladder access and a steep roof pitch, we brought in a lift to get the job done safely and correctly.
What we did:
✔️ Removed the damaged, non-functional window
✔️ Installed a new American Craftsman replacement unit
✔️ Reflashed, sealed, and insulated the opening
✔️ Ensured proper drainage and weather protection
✔️ Completed all work from a high-reach lift for maximum safety
No shortcuts, no risky ladder setups — just safe, professional work executed the right way.
If you have hard-to-reach windows or high-elevation exterior work, we have the equipment and experience to handle it.

An Arts & Crafts Bungalow is one of my favorite styles of homes. We have quite a few of them in our Stockton Mid-Town area. And when C&L called us to help them remodel their 1923 American Bungalow, I was beyond thrilled.
As per usual, when we get a new inquiry, we quickly Google the project location while we are talking to you on the phone. My excitement escalated when I saw the Google Earth Image of the sweet Sage Green bungalow in Mid-Town Stockton. "Yes, we would be interested in working with you," I said trying to keep my cool.
But what made it even better was meeting C&L and touring their home, because they are the nicest young couple, eager to make their home period perfect. Unfortunately, it had been slightly molested by some bad house-flippers, and we needed to bring the bathroom back to it "roots."
We knew we had to banish the hideous brown tile and cheap vanity quickly. But C&L complained about the condensation problems and the constant fight with mold. This immediately told me that improper remodeling had occurred and we needed to remedy that right away.
The Before: Frustrations with a Botched Remodel
The bathroom needed to be brought back to period appropriate design with all the functionality of a modern bathroom. We thought of things like marble countertop, white mosaic floor tiles, white subway tile, board and batten molding, and of course a fabulous wallpaper.
This small (and only) bathroom on a tight budget required a little bit of design sleuthing to figure out how we could get the proper look and feel. Our goal was to determine where to splurge and where to economize and how to complete the remodel as quickly as possible because C&L would have to move out while construction was going on.
The Process: Hard Work to Remedy Design and Function
During our initial design study, (which included 2 hours in the owners’ home), we noticed framed images of William Morris Arts and Crafts textile patterns and knew this would be our design inspiration. We presented C&L with three options and they quickly selected the Pimpernel Design Concept.
We had originally selected the Black and Olive colors with a black vanity, mirror, and black and white floor tile. C&L liked it but weren’t quite sure about the black, We went back to the drawing board and decided the William & Co Pimpernel Wallpaper in Bayleaf and Manilla color with a softer gray painted vanity and mirror and white floor tile was more to their liking.
After the Design Concept was approved, we went to work securing the building permit, procuring all the elements, and scheduling our trusted tradesmen to perform the work.
We did uncover some shoddy work by the flippers such as live electrical wires hidden behind the wall, plumbing venting cut-off and buried in the walls (hence the constant dampness), the tub barely balancing on two fence boards across the floor joist, and no insulation on the exterior wall.
All of the previous blunders were fixed and the bathroom put back to its previous glory. We could feel the house thanking us for making it pretty again.
The After Reveal: Cohesive Design Decisions
We selected a simple white subway tile for the tub/shower. This is always classic and in keeping with the style of the house.
We selected a pre-fab vanity and mirror, but they look rich with the quartz countertop. There is much more storage in this small vanity than you would think.
The Transformation: A Period Perfect Refresh
We began the remodel just as the pandemic reared and stay-in-place orders went into effect. As C&L were already moved out and living with relatives, we got the go-ahead from city officials to get the work done (after all, how can you shelter in place without a bathroom?).
All our tradesmen were scheduled to work so that only one crew was on the job site at a time. We stayed on the original schedule with only a one week delay.
The end result is the sweetest little bathroom I've ever seen (and I can't wait to start work on C&L's kitchen next).
Thank you for joining me in this project transformation. I hope this inspired you to think about being creative with your design projects, determining what works best in keeping with the architecture of your space, and carefully assessing how you can have the best life in your home.

This properly waterproofed shower niche combines great looks with quality and functionality. We built a false wall to complete this niche.

High-Access Window Replacement – Safely Completed with a 42-Foot Lift
This third-story dormer window was long overdue for replacement — the old unit was damaged, boarded up, and no longer functional. With no safe ladder access and a steep roof pitch, we brought in a lift to get the job done safely and correctly.
What we did:
✔️ Removed the damaged, non-functional window
✔️ Installed a new American Craftsman replacement unit
✔️ Reflashed, sealed, and insulated the opening
✔️ Ensured proper drainage and weather protection
✔️ Completed all work from a high-reach lift for maximum safety
No shortcuts, no risky ladder setups — just safe, professional work executed the right way.
If you have hard-to-reach windows or high-elevation exterior work, we have the equipment and experience to handle it.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

Kitchen – Integrated Tall Cabinet Concealing Mechanical Ductwork | Toronto
This kitchen detail highlights a thoughtful design-build solution where mechanical requirements and cabinetry design work seamlessly together. Behind the tall cabinet beside the refrigerator is a large air supply duct, required by the mechanical engineer to properly deliver conditioned air to the newly added second floor.
Rather than leaving the duct exposed or boxing it in as an obvious bulkhead, we strategically designed a shallow tall cabinet to conceal the ductwork. This approach maintains clean sightlines, preserves the kitchen’s modern aesthetic, and adds valuable storage space—turning a technical constraint into a functional design advantage.
This level of coordination between mechanical engineering, cabinetry layout, and construction execution is critical in full-home renovations and second floor additions, where systems must be upgraded without compromising design. The result is a kitchen that looks intentional, uncluttered, and highly functional—without revealing the complexity behind the walls.
This detail is a clear example of Cedarstone Group Inc.’s design-build philosophy: solve technical challenges early, integrate them thoughtfully, and make the final space feel effortless.

This backyard was completely reimagined into a modern, fully automated outdoor living space designed for relaxation, entertaining, and year-round enjoyment.
At the center of the design is a fully automated 11’ x 9’ inground spa, equipped with a dedicated pump for powerful swimming jets and a sleek sheer descent water feature. The spa is finished with pour-in-place coping, stack stone on the spa facing, and low-voltage LED lighting to enhance both functionality and nighttime ambiance.
Adjacent to the spa is a custom rectangular fire pit, featuring pour-in-place coping, stack stone veneer, and integrated low-voltage lighting, creating a warm and inviting focal point for evening gatherings.
For entertaining, we built a custom BBQ island topped with a concrete countertop, and fully equipped with an ice chest, refrigerator, trash pull-out, and ample storage space, offering both durability and a clean, modern aesthetic.
The hardscape includes 24” x 12” decking pavers installed throughout the yard and continued along the side of the house, all designed with proper drainage for long-term performance and durability.
A raised planter system adds structure and greenery to the space, finished with pour-in-place coping, smooth stucco planter faces, and low-voltage lighting both on and within the planters. An irrigation drip system was integrated into all planters to ensure efficient watering and healthy plant growth with minimal maintenance.
To soften the design, artificial grass with stepping stones was installed, creating a low-maintenance, lush look while improving flow through the yard.
For evening atmosphere, three metal posts were installed for string lighting, complemented by low-voltage lighting throughout all flat and raised planters to deliver layered, resort-style ambiance after dark.
Finally, white vinyl gates and fencing were added to enclose and conceal the spa and pool equipment, topped with a privacy extension to keep the space visually clean and private.
The result is a cohesive, modern outdoor retreat that balances design, comfort, and functionality. Perfect for both entertaining and everyday enjoyment.

We used raised panel traditional cabinets as well as a Magma Black granite countertop to assist in this lower-level game rooms aesthetic and function. A new undermount sink, brass faucet, and cabinet pulls made this space more creatively inviting. The gold and black marble backsplash ties in the golds and cherry cabinets seamlessly. We were also sure to include proper cabinet lighting for function and setting the spaces mood.

9704 Single Family, Park Ridge IL
Form follows function for this single family residence. The design and floor plan are in response to a small oddly shaped lot. The stone and stucco 2-story entrance turret exemplifies the underlying theme of properly proportioned masses and materials. The turret encompasses the main stair and serves as the hub of the home. The foyer offers direct access to the dining room, living room and kitchen on the first floor and bedrooms on second floor. The kitchen opens to the breakfast room and vaulted family room with masonry fireplace.

Water Creation’s collection of premier single sink bathroom vanities will add a level of sophistication and class to any bathroom’s décor. The crossroads of timeless design and innovative modern manufacturing processes merge harmoniously to ensure each vanity’s finishes and function are as reliable as their unmistakable beauty. Constructed of 100% hardwood and not particle board, Water Creation prides itself on creating high-class vanities that are designed to last a lifetime. The marble countertop, ceramic sink, and elegantly crafted doors all lend credence to the durability and superior craftsmanship that Water Creation is known for. With the understanding that no one space is alike, all of Water Creation’s vanity designs come in multiple lengths to accommodate any room size.
Material: All of Water Creation's vanities are made from select hardwoods that have been kiln dried to ensure a stable product that will not expand, contract, or warp. Construction: Using joinery techniques that are made to hold together for a lifetime, all vanities come fully assembled and include interior shelving and a large cut out in the back for plumbing access.
Countertop: All of Water Creation’s vanities come with solid natural stone countertops that have been sealed at the factory to prevent staining and watermarks. The countertops are not made by sandwiching thin pieces of cheap stone together, they are solid pieces of stone.
Sink: Undermount oval shaped ceramic sink included. Finish: The multi-step finish process on the vanities is not only rich with color and pleasing to the eye, it is also a very durable; acting as an outer shell to help protect your vanity from wear and damage that may occur in everyday use. Actual color may vary slightly due to different computer monitor display settings.
FEATURES:
• Premier fully assembled single sink bathroom vanity.
• Solid hardwood construction - no cheap veneers.
• One shelf inside cabinet. • Five piece door construction.
• Soft closing drawers for a smooth and silent close.
• Premium five coated hand finish.
• Finish is properly sealed to prevent peeling and fading in elevated humidity levels.
• Solid brass hardware in triple plated chrome finish.
• Tempered glass knobs and pulls.
• 1" thick carrara white marble countertop, 1 solid piece, seamless.
• Pre-drilled 8" widespread faucet holes on countertop.
• 4" tall backsplash included. • Optional matching faucet and mirror available.
VANITY SPECIFICATIONS:
• Vanity Dimensions: 24" W X 21.5" D X 34" H.
• Optional Mirror Dimensions: 21" W X 30" H.
• Number of Doors: 2.
• Number of Drawers: 1 decorative non-functional drawer.
• Number of Interior Shelves: 1.
• Vanity Frame Material: Solid Hardwood.
• Countertop Material: Marble.
• Sink Material: Ceramic.
• Vanity Finish: Pure White.
• Countertop Finish: Carrara White.
• Faucet Centers: 8".
OPTIONAL FAUCET SPECIFICATIONS:
• Spout Height: 3".
• Spout Reach: 5-1/2".
• Deck to Aerator Height: 1-1/2".
• Flow Rate: 2.0 GPM@60PSI - Optimized for water efficiency without sacrificing performance.
• Material: Solid Brass.
• Finish: Hand Polished, Richly Triple Plated Chrome Finish.
• Handle Style Type: Cross handles.
• Valve Type: Ceramic disc. • Lead Free Compliant?: Yes.
• Drain Included?: Yes.

The backyard in this Dunwoody, GA residence presented several challenges, including failing cinder block walls, unsafe steps, and an aging deck. These issues rendered the space largely unusable and created drainage problems, limiting both safety and functionality for the homeowners. Our team addressed these issues by removing all existing structures and undertaking a comprehensive rebuild. This involved regrading the area for proper drainage, constructing new retaining walls, and installing integrated steps for safe access throughout the yard. Multiple paver patios were also installed to create defined entertaining areas. The outcome is a safe and highly functional outdoor living space in Dunwoody. The new retaining walls provide essential structural support, the drainage system manages stormwater effectively, and the integrated patios and walkways offer inviting areas for recreation and access.

These clients were looking for a designer/builder that would handle everything from concept to completion, providing peace of mind for themselves! “Working alongside Renovisions was a pleasant experience” said our clients as we cared to understand their vision, needs, wants and desires, enabling us to execute their projects successfully and professionally.
During the design phase, our well-organized staff listened to the client’s requests and combined several design elements that produced a beautiful, calming and transitional feel to the new kitchen space.
During the remodel phase, the clients had these top 5 items on the list of enhancements:
* High- functioning ventilation to clear as much odors as possible
(When we first met with the clients, they stated, “Something very fishy was going on in their outdated kitchen. Although they enjoyed cooking fish dinners, they fishy odors often annoyed them)! Renovisions designed and installed a wood hood in matching light gray painted finish with a hood liner that provided the maximum ventilation, while staying within the proper building code of a 350cfm air exchange, without having to add a make -up air system which would have added to the cost of the project.
*Better functioning ‘Spinner Storage’ for interior storage. The clients loved them in their old kitchen; we furnished and installed new and better-quality spinners storage units.
*A unique opening between the kitchen and family room that allowed homeowners to pass meals through as they enjoyed a movie from the family room.
*A Smart-Divide porcelain enamel sink with stainless steel grids allow plenty of room for dirty dishes, pots and pans as well as separate areas to prep and wash dishes as needed.
* Anti-glare finishes were a must have for these clients; kitchen cabinetry in a matte gray neutral finish, faucet and cabinet hardware in a matte black finish and stunning Cambria quartz countertops in a suede finish set the stage.
At completion phase, homeowners were ensured that they were receiving high-quality products, style and craftmanship in the most efficient time frame and were thrilled with look of their new kitchen that also provided plenty of prep, entertaining and seating space.
The clients attributes the success of the design to the emotions it inspired when the job was completed – they simply love everything about it!

These clients were looking for a designer/builder that would handle everything from concept to completion, providing peace of mind for themselves! “Working alongside Renovisions was a pleasant experience” said our clients as we cared to understand their vision, needs, wants and desires, enabling us to execute their projects successfully and professionally.
During the design phase, our well-organized staff listened to the client’s requests and combined several design elements that produced a beautiful, calming and transitional feel to the new kitchen space.
During the remodel phase, the clients had these top 5 items on the list of enhancements:
* High- functioning ventilation to clear as much odors as possible
(When we first met with the clients, they stated, “Something very fishy was going on in their outdated kitchen. Although they enjoyed cooking fish dinners, they fishy odors often annoyed them)! Renovisions designed and installed a wood hood in matching light gray painted finish with a hood liner that provided the maximum ventilation, while staying within the proper building code of a 350cfm air exchange, without having to add a make -up air system which would have added to the cost of the project.
*Better functioning ‘Spinner Storage’ for interior storage. The clients loved them in their old kitchen; we furnished and installed new and better-quality spinners storage units.
*A unique opening between the kitchen and family room that allowed homeowners to pass meals through as they enjoyed a movie from the family room.
*A Smart-Divide porcelain enamel sink with stainless steel grids allow plenty of room for dirty dishes, pots and pans as well as separate areas to prep and wash dishes as needed.
* Anti-glare finishes were a must have for these clients; kitchen cabinetry in a matte gray neutral finish, faucet and cabinet hardware in a matte black finish and stunning Cambria quartz countertops in a suede finish set the stage.
At completion phase, homeowners were ensured that they were receiving high-quality products, style and craftmanship in the most efficient time frame and were thrilled with look of their new kitchen that also provided plenty of prep, entertaining and seating space.
The clients attributes the success of the design to the emotions it inspired when the job was completed – they simply love everything about it!

This recently completed wine cellar in Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego, California is great example that small can definitely be beautiful. The homeowners had a vision to redo their older, existing wine cellar - all the meanwhile keeping some of it’s original charm. The back wall of the original wine cellar / wine room was opened up, converting an adjacent closet into an additional room for the space. The rustic and traditional stone work and vertical diamond bins were kept to maintain the old world feel. Rustic works well in the luxury country estates throughout Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego, California. The team at Vintage Cellars created a beautiful and functional wine racking design in Poplar with a custom stain and finish to match the existing wine cellar aesthetics. The wine room also features high reveal display, room for case storage, and tiered coved trays for large format bottles.
Since 1990, Vintage Cellars has designed and built over 2,000 custom wine cellars in a wide range of styles and applications. Vintage Cellars offers a complete turnkey service (if needed), providing initial wine cellar design options, proper room preparation with vapor barrier and insulation, proper wine cellar cooling unit sizing and installation, wine racking fabrication with custom stain and lacquer options done in house, and final professional installation onsite. We can also design and ship the wine racking without install. We regularly work with Interior Designers, Architects, and Home Builders as well and can help carry out visions already in movement too.
Gene Walder, Jake Austad, and the team at Vintage Cellars specialize in Custom Wine Cellar Design and Consultation, Custom Wine Cellar Cooling Systems, Custom Wine Cellar Doors, Wine Cellar Racking, and everything else wine storage related. By working closely with clients, the team at Vintage Cellars is able to craft a wine storage space to match the collectors' vision and style.
Services Provided
Custom Wine Cellar Construction, Custom Wine Cellar Consultation, Modern Wine Cellars, Contemporary Wine Cellars, Rustic Wine Cellars, Metal Wine Cellars, Wood Wine Cellars, Wine Closet, Wine Room, Wine Cellar Cooling Systems, Wine Cellar Vapor Barrier and Insulation, Custom Wine Cellars, Wine Racking, Custom Wine Racking Design, Wine Cellars, Custom Home Bars, Wine Cellar Design, Wine Cellar Installation
Areas Served
Bonsall, Cardiff By The Sea, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Escondido, Hidden Meadows, Hidden Trails, La Costa, Oceanside, Ranch Santa Fe, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego, San Marcos, Valley Center, Vista, Orange County, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Newport Beach, Dana Point, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Napa, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Newport Coast, Corona Del Mar, La Jolla, Huntington Beach, Pacific Palisades, Bel Air, Coronado, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, Ladera Heights, Westwood, Hancock Park, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove, Laguna Niguel, Torrey Pines, Thousand Oaks, Coto De Caza, Danville
Certifications and Awards
Featured Articles in Wine Spectator Magazine
Featured in Articles in The Wall Street Journal
Featured in LUXE Magazine
Featured on Bob Vila's "This Old House"
Wine & Spirits Education Trust Certified Level 1, 2 & 3.
California Wine Appellation Specialists

This backyard was completely reimagined into a modern, fully automated outdoor living space designed for relaxation, entertaining, and year-round enjoyment.
At the center of the design is a fully automated 11’ x 9’ inground spa, equipped with a dedicated pump for powerful swimming jets and a sleek sheer descent water feature. The spa is finished with pour-in-place coping, stack stone on the spa facing, and low-voltage LED lighting to enhance both functionality and nighttime ambiance.
Adjacent to the spa is a custom rectangular fire pit, featuring pour-in-place coping, stack stone veneer, and integrated low-voltage lighting, creating a warm and inviting focal point for evening gatherings.
For entertaining, we built a custom BBQ island topped with a concrete countertop, and fully equipped with an ice chest, refrigerator, trash pull-out, and ample storage space, offering both durability and a clean, modern aesthetic.
The hardscape includes 24” x 12” decking pavers installed throughout the yard and continued along the side of the house, all designed with proper drainage for long-term performance and durability.
A raised planter system adds structure and greenery to the space, finished with pour-in-place coping, smooth stucco planter faces, and low-voltage lighting both on and within the planters. An irrigation drip system was integrated into all planters to ensure efficient watering and healthy plant growth with minimal maintenance.
To soften the design, artificial grass with stepping stones was installed, creating a low-maintenance, lush look while improving flow through the yard.
For evening atmosphere, three metal posts were installed for string lighting, complemented by low-voltage lighting throughout all flat and raised planters to deliver layered, resort-style ambiance after dark.
Finally, white vinyl gates and fencing were added to enclose and conceal the spa and pool equipment, topped with a privacy extension to keep the space visually clean and private.
The result is a cohesive, modern outdoor retreat that balances design, comfort, and functionality. Perfect for both entertaining and everyday enjoyment.

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable.
That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us.
In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year.
Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint!
We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun.
“Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem.
“This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.”
Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country.
“I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

Our Clients, a retired couple with a dog, were first time renovators. They approached Sosna to renovate their outdated Shared Bathroom because they were embarrassed for guests to use it. The cluttered layout was difficult to navigate, and it lacked useful storage space. As well, there was no fan for proper ventilation.
They were concerned about a renovation being messy, and disrupting their everyday lives, as they would be living in their home during construction. They also had a tight deadline that needed to be met. We completed this project on time, with great care taken so the family would be comfortable during the duration of construction.
The Bathroom was given a fresh update with clean, modern tiles on the floor and shower walls, which were complimented with herringbone accent tiles. A glass shower door provided a more open and airy feel to the space. A stylish navy blue navy blue prefabricated vanity adorned with elegant gold hardware and a brushed nickel faucet, as well as a white freestanding cabinet, and wall mounted cabinet provided plenty of useful storage space. The Shared Bathroom was tied together with a blend of gold and brushed nickel hardware used throughout.
As a result of the renovation, the couple now enjoys a fresh and modern Shared Bathroom that they take pride in showing to their guests. The addition of extra storage space has eliminated clutter, and everything has its place. The installation of a timer fan ensures proper ventilation. These updates have significantly improved the functionality of the Bathroom, creating a more comfortable and useful space for the family.

Custom Basement Master Suite with Spa-Inspired Bath & Walk-In Closet:
This basement renovation transformed an unfinished lower level into a private, fully functional master retreat designed for comfort, storage, and long-term livability.
The spacious bedroom was intentionally designed with a soft neutral palette, plush carpeting, and layered lighting to create a calm, restful environment. A custom barn door system adds architectural interest while concealing a generous walk-in closet. Inside, thoughtfully designed shelving and hanging systems maximize storage and organization, turning what was once unused space into a highly functional dressing area.
The adjoining bathroom blends modern simplicity with warm rustic touches. A beautiful wood vanity with matte black fixtures grounds the space, while clean-lined lighting and a streamlined mirror keep the look fresh and contemporary. The walk-in shower features a sleek glass enclosure and geometric tile for subtle texture and visual interest, creating a spa-like feel within a compact footprint.
Throughout the suite, careful planning ensured proper lighting, comfort, and flow — elevating the basement from secondary space to true primary living quarters.
At Hillview Custom Renovations, we believe lower levels can offer just as much beauty and intention as the main floor. This project reflects our commitment to creating spaces that are not only well-built, but thoughtfully designed for everyday life.
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