Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners came to us looking to update the kitchen in their historic 1897 home. The home had gone through an extensive renovation several years earlier that added a master bedroom suite and updates to the front façade. The kitchen however was not part of that update and a prior 1990’s update had left much to be desired. The client is an avid cook, and it was just not very functional for the family. The original kitchen was very choppy and included a large eat in area that took up more than its fair share of the space. On the wish list was a place where the family could comfortably congregate, that was easy and to cook in, that feels lived in and in check with the rest of the home’s décor. They also wanted a space that was not cluttered and dark – a happy, light and airy room. A small powder room off the space also needed some attention so we set out to include that in the remodel as well. See that arch in the neighboring dining room? The homeowner really wanted to make the opening to the dining room an arch to match, so we incorporated that into the design. Another unfortunate eyesore was the state of the ceiling and soffits. Turns out it was just a series of shortcuts from the prior renovation, and we were surprised and delighted that we were easily able to flatten out almost the entire ceiling with a couple of little reworks. Other changes we made were to add new windows that were appropriate to the new design, which included moving the sink window over slightly to give the work zone more breathing room. We also adjusted the height of the windows in what was previously the eat-in area that were too low for a countertop to work. We tried to keep an old island in the plan since it was a well-loved vintage find, but the tradeoff for the function of the new island was not worth it in the end. We hope the old found a new home, perhaps as a potting table. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Paul Markert, Markert Photo, Inc.
Basement - small craftsman underground ceramic tile and brown floor basement idea in Minneapolis with beige walls

A trellised terrace opens up to a quieter view of a magnificent existing redwood grove and bioswale filled with clusters of ornamental grasses and perennials. Photography by Marion Brenner

Entry Hall
Inspiration for a contemporary medium tone wood floor entry hall remodel in New York

Photography: Jeri Koegel
Inspiration for a small mediterranean side yard stone patio fountain remodel in Orange County with a pergola

Bathroom - transitional bathroom idea in San Francisco

The collaboration between architect and interior designer is seen here. The floor plan and layout are by the architect. Cabinet materials and finishes, lighting, and furnishings are by the interior designer. Detailing of the vent hood and raised counter are a collaboration. The raised counter includes a chase on the far side for power. Photo: Michael Shopenn

Karen was an existing client of ours who was tired of the crowded and cluttered laundry/mudroom that did not work well for her young family. The washer and dryer were right in the line of traffic when you stepped in her back entry from the garage and there was a lack of a bench for changing shoes/boots. Planning began… then along came a twist! A new puppy that will grow to become a fair sized dog would become part of the family. Could the design accommodate dog grooming and a daytime “kennel” for when the family is away? Having two young boys, Karen wanted to have custom features that would make housekeeping easier so custom drawer drying racks and ironing board were included in the design. All slab-style cabinet and drawer fronts are sturdy and easy to clean and the family’s coats and necessities are hidden from view while close at hand. The selected quartz countertops, slate flooring and honed marble wall tiles will provide a long life for this hard working space. The enameled cast iron sink which fits puppy to full-sized dog (given a boost) was outfitted with a faucet conducive to dog washing, as well as, general clean up. And the piece de resistance is the glass, Dutch pocket door which makes the family dog feel safe yet secure with a view into the rest of the house. Karen and her family enjoy the organized, tidy space and how it works for them.

Example of a small trendy stone tile porcelain tile walk-in shower design in New Orleans with a wall-mount sink and a wall-mount toilet

Courtney Olander
Exterior home idea in Seattle

Example of a cottage home design design in San Francisco

Living room - eclectic living room idea in Chicago

A built-in banquette was designed to allow for views of the bi-weekly lakefront fireworks while also providing ample seating for the dining area within a fairly compact footprint.

This transitional bedroom seamlessly blends classic and contemporary design elements. Sophisticated gray walls and a coffered ceiling provide the perfect backdrop for the modern furnishings and neutral tones, creating a serene and stylish retreat. The space is illuminated by natural light streaming through French doors.

Request Free Quote This inground hot tub in Winnetka, IL measures 8'0" square, and is flush with the decking. Featuring an automatic pool cover with hidden stone safety lid, bluestone coping and decking, and multi-colored LED lighting, this hot tub is the perfect complement to the lovely outoor living space. Photos by Larry Huene.

A 1940's bungalow was renovated and transformed for a small family. This is a small space - 800 sqft (2 bed, 2 bath) full of charm and character. Custom and vintage furnishings, art, and accessories give the space character and a layered and lived-in vibe. This is a small space so there are several clever storage solutions throughout. Vinyl wood flooring layered with wool and natural fiber rugs. Wall sconces and industrial pendants add to the farmhouse aesthetic. A simple and modern space for a fairly minimalist family. Located in Costa Mesa, California. Photos: Ryan Garvin

The bluestone entry and poured-in-place concrete create strength of line in the front while the plantings softly transition to the back patio space.
Design ideas for a huge mid-century modern partial sun side yard stone garden path in Chicago for summer.

seacoast real estate Photography
Inspiration for a transitional kitchen remodel in Manchester

'Jade' green beans growing in a window box. With the right organic soil mix and plenty of water, green beans can thrive in window boxes or other containers. Photo by Steve Masley