Northeast Portland is full of great old neighborhoods and houses bursting with character. The owners of this particular home had enjoyed their pink and blue bathroom’s quirky charm for years, but had finally outgrown its awkward layout and lack of functionality. The Goal: Create a fresh, bright look for this bathroom that is both functional and fits the style of the home. Step one was to establish the color scheme and style for our clients’ new bathroom. Bright whites and classic elements like marble, subway tile and penny-rounds helped establish a transitional style that didn’t feel “too modern” for the home. When it comes to creating a more functional space, storage is key. The original bathroom featured a pedestal sink with no practical storage options. We designed a custom-built vanity with plenty of storage and useable counter space. And by opting for a durable, low-maintenance quartz countertop, we were able to create a beautiful marble-look without the hefty price-tag. Next, we got rid of the old tub (and awkward shower outlet), and moved the entire shower-area to the back wall. This created a far more practical layout for this bathroom, providing more space for the large new vanity and the open, walk-in shower our clients were looking for.

The open-plan kitchen is set between the living room and the dining room and opens onto both. Generous windows on the front and back fill the ground floor with light and provide views of the front and back yards.

Photo by Jay Sifford.
Inspiration for an eclectic landscaping in Charlotte.

Another lovely home situated in an established subdivision. Limited by set backs, we were able to provide a design that fit all their needs, including a front porch with "gingerbread" accents. bringing a touch of key west style to a neighborhood, the trend has really caught on...

Inspiration for a mediterranean home design remodel in Orange County

This coastal garden is located 4 hours north of Sydney. This garden has been an ongoing project for Secret Gardens over the last decade. The original brief was for a ‘mini botanic garden’ which proved a challenge on a site with little tree or vegetation cover and limited top soil. The plantings are 95% native, from the establishing rainforest where over 25 varieties of trees have been used to the drier areas where Callistemon, Kangaroo Paw and ornamental grasses have been used in large swathes.The result now is an established garden that will continue to evolve and provide great enjoyment for our clients.

This elegant house seems to have been designed to allow its owner to experience the beauty of light with a particular intensity. ​ The use of white emphasizes the interplay of forms and levels that has been established in the interior. Outside, a patio provide an idyllic setting for relaxing, reading, playing and above all enjoying the southern California weather.

Salvia just getting established. Planting around the perimeter will eventually soften the fence and provide privacy.
Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in Sacramento

In the new sitting room design, a sense of depth is created with a fence-like wall treatment above the fireplace. The same knotty alder cabinets seen in the library establish continuity and provide organized storage space. A pair of mid-century wood fans completes the look of clean, streamlined style.

Living room - traditional living room idea

Home design - traditional home design idea

This coastal garden is located 4 hours north of Sydney. This garden has been an ongoing project for Secret Gardens over the last decade. The original brief was for a ‘mini botanic garden’ which proved a challenge on a site with little tree or vegetation cover and limited top soil. The plantings are 95% native, from the establishing rainforest where over 25 varieties of trees have been used to the drier areas where Callistemon, Kangaroo Paw and ornamental grasses have been used in large swathes.The result now is an established garden that will continue to evolve and provide great enjoyment for our clients.