For our full gut renovation of this Manhattan loft penthouse, we partnered with architecture firm Todd Zwigard Architects. Many of our clients know us as experts in the full design-build approach, where we handle every aspect of the project. But in this case, architectural plans were already drawn, the full schedule was finished, and our clients needed a partner to execute on the architectural plans – enter Gallery. Construction management is as vital to a project as the design phase, so we’re happy to offer our expertise in this type of scenario. A DIFFERENT APPROACH Construction and design are often the face of most renovations, but the planning and follow-through are naturally just as necessary to make it all come together. The project itself was a fairly straightforward gut renovation of the loft. Everything was included: new floors, a new kitchen, new bathrooms, new lighting. Our task was to manage every aspect of the construction, ensuring that the planning work of Todd Zwigard Architects was executed to the exact vision imagined for this Manhattan loft renovation. CONTEMPORARY GOES ECLECTIC Although we didn’t contribute to the aesthetic of the interior design in this project, we did carry out the plans that brought it life. The tone was very modern, with some eclectic touches. The kitchen, featuring an island with a baby blue lacquered finish, blends contemporary clean lines into an industrial-tinged, almost futuristic aesthetic. Reclaimed wooden doors and art pieces collected throughout the years are an ode to the client's travels, an artistic touch from Todd Zwigard Architects. LET’S TALK Quality of work is of course important, but there are several components of construction management that are equally vital: communication; processes that make sure you're able to adhere to schedules; protocols with both safety and communication. You might say this is the nerding out of the construction process. It’s not often the face of a project, but it’s absolutely massive in terms of carrying out a successful renovation, whether it’s a penthouse loft in Manhattan, a condo in Prospect Heights, or a kitchen in a Brooklyn brownstone. Quality construction management is probably one of the biggest ways to separate professional contractors from those who aren’t. ART FROM CHAOS This was such a large project, so our ability to procure and source all the finishes and fixtures was hugely important to our clients. The sheer number of floors, tiles, and plumbing fixtures alone that need to be ordered, in addition to everything else, plus figuring out lead times, shipments, deliveries, and inspections. It can quickly become chaotic, but there’s an art to the planning and organization, and we’ve mastered it. The larger a project is, the more likely that havoc will rear its head. The antidote is not only really proper planning and construction management, as we achieved in this Manhattan loft penthouse renovation, but also a great working relationship with everyone else involved in the project: contractors, architect, and clients alike. GET IN TOUCH Is a loft renovation in New York in your future? We’re experts in renovating New York homes, from apartment combinations in managed buildings to kitchens and bathrooms in co-ops and condos to gut renovations of historic spaces and landmark renovations. ‍ Contact us to learn more about our approach as a design-and-build firm, where all aspects of your project are handled under the same roof. In addition to construction management, you’ll get our in-house architect in-house and the added renovation benefits of experts in design, material selection, and paperwork.

Photo of a southwestern landscaping in Phoenix.

Wood Bottom Rail Replacement & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??️ Start by fixing that rotting, sagging, or split wood bottom rail that compromises the strength and safety of your fence or deck railing, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the decayed wood, securing a fresh, sturdy replacement rail between your existing posts, and properly reattaching your pickets or balusters so your railing is rock-solid and visually seamless again. Once your bottom rail is perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and fixing gates. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty milled railing profiles, specific pressure-treated lumber, or custom heavy-duty brackets, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

THE BEFORE PICTURE. Long lead times and delays are a new normal. At European Kitchen Center, we adapt our business to new standards. We carefully planned this project to avoid extensive periods without cooking. With our help, the client could source and purchase all necessary products. The demolition started when we had cabinetry and all other parts in our possession. As a result, quick installation, pleased client, and a stunning kitchen. The client has opted for a two-tone finish; white lacquer and stunning wood veneer. It features handle-less cabinetry, contemporary design, and the latest in modern kitchen gadgets. PLEASE SEE THE BEFORE PICTUREBesides being aesthetically pleasing, we packed this kitchen with many mechanisms to improve its functionality, An amazing induction cooktop with a built-in downdraft, multi-functional workstation, LED task lighting. Please see the pictures.

Outdoor Stair Step Repair & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??? Start by fixing those rotting, cracked, sinking, or dangerously slippery outdoor stair steps that make navigating your exterior a major tripping hazard, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the damaged tread or crumbling concrete, reinforcing the underlying stringers or base, and securing a fresh, weather-resistant piece of treated lumber or high-strength concrete patch so your outdoor staircase is safe, rock-solid, and built to withstand the elements. Once your outdoor steps are perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and repairing fences. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty specific anti-slip tread grips, custom pressure-treated stringers, or specialized masonry bonding agents, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

Wood Bottom Rail Replacement & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??️ Start by fixing that rotting, sagging, or split wood bottom rail that compromises the strength and safety of your fence or deck railing, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the decayed wood, securing a fresh, sturdy replacement rail between your existing posts, and properly reattaching your pickets or balusters so your railing is rock-solid and visually seamless again. Once your bottom rail is perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and fixing gates. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty milled railing profiles, specific pressure-treated lumber, or custom heavy-duty brackets, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

Deck Plank Replacement & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??️ Start by fixing those rotting, splintered, or warped deck boards that make your outdoor space look tired and unsafe, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the damaged decking, inspecting the joists beneath, and seamlessly securing fresh, durable planks so your outdoor living space is safe, solid, and ready for entertaining. Once your deck surface is perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and repairing fences. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty composite boards, hidden fastening systems, or specific pressure-treated lumber, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

Wood Bottom Rail Replacement & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??️ Start by fixing that rotting, sagging, or split wood bottom rail that compromises the strength and safety of your fence or deck railing, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the decayed wood, securing a fresh, sturdy replacement rail between your existing posts, and properly reattaching your pickets or balusters so your railing is rock-solid and visually seamless again. Once your bottom rail is perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and fixing gates. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty milled railing profiles, specific pressure-treated lumber, or custom heavy-duty brackets, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

Deck Plank Replacement & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??️ Start by fixing those rotting, splintered, or warped deck boards that make your outdoor space look tired and unsafe, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the damaged decking, inspecting the joists beneath, and seamlessly securing fresh, durable planks so your outdoor living space is safe, solid, and ready for entertaining. Once your deck surface is perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and repairing fences. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty composite boards, hidden fastening systems, or specific pressure-treated lumber, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

Deck Plank Replacement & Your Entire To-Do List Done! ??️ Start by fixing those rotting, splintered, or warped deck boards that make your outdoor space look tired and unsafe, and let us take care of the rest in one seamless visit. With our Ultimate Handyman Block, your professional will kick off the day with a quick property walkthrough to prioritize your exact needs. We will dive straight into carefully removing the damaged decking, inspecting the joists beneath, and seamlessly securing fresh, durable planks so your outdoor living space is safe, solid, and ready for entertaining. Once your deck surface is perfectly restored, we will use the rest of your reserved session to tackle whatever else is weighing on your mind—from mounting heavy TVs and patching drywall to upgrading door hardware and repairing fences. Professional-grade consumables are fully included in the service, and if your project requires specialty composite boards, hidden fastening systems, or specific pressure-treated lumber, we source them for you and pass the items on with zero markup. It is the ultimate, stress-free way to finally catch up on those nagging repairs and get your property back to 100% in a single day.

We got the opportunity to step inside Jaclyn James’ gorgeous San Diego kitchen and we were awestruck by the personal touches and one-of-kind DIY projects we saw throughout her modern farmhouse kitchen and living room. One of our favorite aspects of her charming home is that she sourced most of her furniture and decor from local San Diego vendors or built it herself! It is no secret that she has mastered the art of the DIY home project. The Oasis Collection on 6×6 Limestone was used as the tile backsplash above her range. This pattern was inspired by watercolor paints and classic Portuguese silhouettes. This floral design looks antiqued yet contemporary and looks stunning in this kitchen backsplash. Oasis is a part of our quick-ship line, Artisan Stone Tile, and available to ship within a few days. This tile is offered on a 6×6 or 12×12 honed Carrara or Limestone and in three color options.

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Example of a transitional deck design in Dallas

Reclaimed Brick Tile Flooring in Mudroom is warm an inviting. This space is perfect for shedding all those boots, coats and mittens after a long day on the ranch or in the field. Choosing the flooring was easy with this durable brickstone tile collection available in 2×10 and 5×10 options. Brickstone tile adds warmth and richness to your space. This timeless look with a reclaimed brick-look porcelain tile perfectly selected for this mudroom. The white cabinets and bench seat top off the floor. Reclaimed Brick Tile Flooring complete in Client Project Mudroom New Construction ~ Thank you for sharing! Client Remarks on the BBB “Wonderful company . Easy to work with and best prices in town .” Hearty designed tile flooring is perfect for mudrooms from the reclaimed brick tile flooring look to hearty stone looks. In addition, to reclaimed wood looks or standard wood look tiles. Tile flooring provide the durability and manage the wet areas after long days on the ranch or in the field. Other flooring designs include engineered hardwoods and luxury vinyl tiles in a vast array of tones. Luxury vinyl tiles come in glue down and LVT click together with go quick and easy installation with triple lock installation. Ask a designer today about many options for your mudroom flooring and cabinet designs. Find your locally owned Home Improvement Store, French Creek Designs, on MeWe or Facebook, and follow us! Read more about our process and read regular updates on client projects and updated materials selections and choices at FCD News a reliable source of information and current trends.

Photo provided by Eric Morley, Carolina Timberworks. Customer Testimonial(s): “Finding a source for reclaimed wood is as simple as a quick Google search. Finding quality reclaimed wood is another story. Not only is it not always an apples to apples comparison, but sometimes it’s apples to prunes. Carolina Timberworks maintains relationships with a select group of quality reclaimed wood suppliers, among them Revient Reclaimed Wood. What’s most important to us? Not only must the timber meet our standards, but we need it delivered when promised so we can meet the time commitment we’ve made to our client”. Eric Morley, Carolina Timberworks “I built my home almost entirely from wood obtained from Revient, LLC. They supplied the timbers, the flooring and cabinet lumber as well as the exterior and interior walls. Where the walls are painted, I did not use reclaimed wood, but it is everywhere else. Revient had everything I wanted and I am extremely pleased with the product.”

Nestled into the woods of Center Valley, the Polk Valley Homestead has been passed down through generations. The young family living there now quickly outgrew the small kitchen that was tucked into the back corner of the house. A large, 9’ x 15’ addition was added onto the house to make way for a new, expansive kitchen. The addition, completed by Erwin Forrest Builders, was thoughtfully planned to stay in proportion to the home and to also retain the character of the exterior by using stone sourced from the property itself. As collectors of fine furniture, the homeowners had a great appreciation for tiger maple. A local cabinetmaker was enlisted to build reproduction antique tiger maple furniture pieces featuring hand-planing, hand-pegging, and barrel hinges and hardware from Horton Brasses. The painted perimeter cabinetry by Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry provides a beautiful backdrop for the gorgeous soapstone from Bucks County Soapstone. The new space is one that the family can gather in for many more generations. Matt Villano Photography

Photo provided by Eric Morley, Carolina Timberworks. Customer Testimonial(s): “Finding a source for reclaimed wood is as simple as a quick Google search. Finding quality reclaimed wood is another story. Not only is it not always an apples to apples comparison, but sometimes it’s apples to prunes. Carolina Timberworks maintains relationships with a select group of quality reclaimed wood suppliers, among them Revient Reclaimed Wood. What’s most important to us? Not only must the timber meet our standards, but we need it delivered when promised so we can meet the time commitment we’ve made to our client”. Eric Morley, Carolina Timberworks “I built my home almost entirely from wood obtained from Revient, LLC. They supplied the timbers, the flooring and cabinet lumber as well as the exterior and interior walls. Where the walls are painted, I did not use reclaimed wood, but it is everywhere else. Revient had everything I wanted and I am extremely pleased with the product.”

Photo provided by Eric Morley, Carolina Timberworks. Customer Testimonial(s): “Finding a source for reclaimed wood is as simple as a quick Google search. Finding quality reclaimed wood is another story. Not only is it not always an apples to apples comparison, but sometimes it’s apples to prunes. Carolina Timberworks maintains relationships with a select group of quality reclaimed wood suppliers, among them Revient Reclaimed Wood. What’s most important to us? Not only must the timber meet our standards, but we need it delivered when promised so we can meet the time commitment we’ve made to our client”. Eric Morley, Carolina Timberworks “I built my home almost entirely from wood obtained from Revient, LLC. They supplied the timbers, the flooring and cabinet lumber as well as the exterior and interior walls. Where the walls are painted, I did not use reclaimed wood, but it is everywhere else. Revient had everything I wanted and I am extremely pleased with the product.”

Nestled into the woods of Center Valley, the Polk Valley Homestead has been passed down through generations. The young family living there now quickly outgrew the small kitchen that was tucked into the back corner of the house. A large, 9’ x 15’ addition was added onto the house to make way for a new, expansive kitchen. The addition, completed by Erwin Forrest Builders, was thoughtfully planned to stay in proportion to the home and to also retain the character of the exterior by using stone sourced from the property itself. As collectors of fine furniture, the homeowners had a great appreciation for tiger maple. A local cabinetmaker was enlisted to build reproduction antique tiger maple furniture pieces featuring hand-planing, hand-pegging, and barrel hinges and hardware from Horton Brasses. The painted perimeter cabinetry by Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry provides a beautiful backdrop for the gorgeous soapstone from Bucks County Soapstone. The new space is one that the family can gather in for many more generations. Matt Villano Photography