Search results for "Reduce originally" in Home Design Ideas

This Eichler-esque house, in a neighborhood known for its tracts of homes by the famous developer, was a little different from the rest- a one-off custom build from 1962 that had mid-century modern bones but funky, neo-traditional finishes in the worn-out, time capsule state that the new owners found it. This called for an almost-gut remodel to keep the good, upgrade the building’s envelope and MEP systems, and reimagine the home’s character. To create a home that feels of its times, both now and then- A mid-century for the 21st century.
At the center of the existing home was a long, slender rectangular form that contained a fireplace, an indoor BBQ, and kitchen storage, and on the other side an original, suspended wood and steel rod stair down to the bedroom level below. Under the carpeted treads we were sure we’d find beautiful oak, as this stair was identical to one at our earlier Clarendon heights mid-century project.
This elegant core was obscured by walls that enclosed the kitchen and breakfast areas and a jumble of aged finishes that hid the elegance of this defining element. Lincoln Lighthill Architect removed the walls and unified the core’s finishes with light grey ground-face concrete block on the upgraded fireplace and BBQ, lacquered cabinets, and chalkboard paint at the stair wall for the owners’ young children to decorate. A new skylight above the stair washes this wall with light and brightens up the formerly dark center of the house.
The rest of the interior is a combination of mid-century-inspired elements and modern updates. New finishes throughout- cork flooring, ground-face concrete block, Heath tile, and white birch millwork give the interior the mid-century character it never fully had, while modern, minimalist detailing gives it a timeless, serene simplicity.
New lighting throughout, mostly indirect and all warm-dim LED , subtly and efficiently lights the home. All new plumbing and fixtures similarly reduce the home’s use of precious resources. On the exterior, new windows, insulation, and roofing provide modern standards of comfort and efficiency, while a new paint job and brick stain give the house an elegant yet playful character, with the golden yellow Heath tile from the primary bathroom floor reappearing on the front door.

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison
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This Eichler-esque house, in a neighborhood known for its tracts of homes by the famous developer, was a little different from the rest- a one-off custom build from 1962 that had mid-century modern bones but funky, neo-traditional finishes in the worn-out, time capsule state that the new owners found it. This called for an almost-gut remodel to keep the good, upgrade the building’s envelope and MEP systems, and reimagine the home’s character. To create a home that feels of its times, both now and then- A mid-century for the 21st century.
At the center of the existing home was a long, slender rectangular form that contained a fireplace, an indoor BBQ, and kitchen storage, and on the other side an original, suspended wood and steel rod stair down to the bedroom level below. Under the carpeted treads we were sure we’d find beautiful oak, as this stair was identical to one at our earlier Clarendon heights mid-century project.
This elegant core was obscured by walls that enclosed the kitchen and breakfast areas and a jumble of aged finishes that hid the elegance of this defining element. Lincoln Lighthill Architect removed the walls and unified the core’s finishes with light grey ground-face concrete block on the upgraded fireplace and BBQ, lacquered cabinets, and chalkboard paint at the stair wall for the owners’ young children to decorate. A new skylight above the stair washes this wall with light and brightens up the formerly dark center of the house.
The rest of the interior is a combination of mid-century-inspired elements and modern updates. New finishes throughout- cork flooring, ground-face concrete block, Heath tile, and white birch millwork give the interior the mid-century character it never fully had, while modern, minimalist detailing gives it a timeless, serene simplicity.
New lighting throughout, mostly indirect and all warm-dim LED , subtly and efficiently lights the home. All new plumbing and fixtures similarly reduce the home’s use of precious resources. On the exterior, new windows, insulation, and roofing provide modern standards of comfort and efficiency, while a new paint job and brick stain give the house an elegant yet playful character, with the golden yellow Heath tile from the primary bathroom floor reappearing on the front door.

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

DUETTE® Honeycomb Shades
The Original Energy-Efficient Honeycomb Shade
An innovative window treatment that looks beautiful and insulates your home all year round, Duette® Honeycomb Shades were the first cellular shades, specially engineered to provide energy efficiency at the window in both cold and warm climates. Their specially engineered honeycomb construction traps air in distinct pockets, which creates insulation that can help lower your energy consumption and energy bills.
Decorate every kind of window you have—even tricky skylights and unusually shaped panes—with Duette. Our signature honeycomb shades are one of our most versatile options and beautify every kind of interior.
Key Features
Premium Design & Style—Explore the richness of texture and warmth offered by The Alustra® Collection of Duette, a thoughtfully curated suite of exclusive design-inspired fabrics, textures, colors and hardware created to meet the expectations of leading designers and discerning consumers who seek the best in design.
Largest Selection in the Industry—Explore the widest selection of cellular pleat sizes, opacities, colors, textures and operating systems. Duette shades can also accommodate many specialty shaped windows, even tricky skylights.
Energy-Efficiency—Studies show that windows are responsible for up to 30% of your home’s energy losses. Duette shades trap air in distinct pockets, creating exceptional insulation. Our latest innovation, Duette Architella®, features a honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design for even greater energy efficiency.
Room Darkening—The LightLock™ system, the newest iteration from Duette, is the first operating system of its kind to offer unparalleled darkness. The secret lies within the patent-pending side channel design, optimized to absorb or deflect nearly all incoming light.
Durability—All of our high-performing fabrics are resistant to fading and will maintain their crisp, neat pleats over time.
Vertical Application—For doors that need extra insulation, the Duette Vertiglide™ operating system is the ideal option. It’s designed for vertical applications and uses the same fabrics as your horizontal Duette shades. Use one shade to cover the entire expanse of a sliding door, or, cover the door with a split stack Vertiglide shade, with each side operating independently.
Sound Absorption—Improve your room’s acoustics while reducing the intensity of outside sound. Duette Honeycomb Shades absorb up to 70% of sound energy, creating a more quiet, tranquil room.
LNG Blinds
19 Addison Pl
Valley Stream, NY 11580
Call Us (516) 593-0044
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A complete desert landscape renovation — from demo through final planting — designed to honor the Sonoran Desert character of the property while adding structure, drama, and year-round visual interest.
The scope opened with full site demolition: removal of approximately 20 existing plants, regrading for a new curved pony wall and mounded terrain, and excavation for a new river run. Existing granite was preserved and redistributed rather than removed, reducing waste and maintaining the site's established material palette.
Hardscape & Structure
A 20-linear-foot curved retention wall built from standard block with a stucco cap defines a planting border along the property edge. The facing side is clad in 45 square feet of stone veneer matched precisely to the home's exterior — a detail that ties the landscape directly to the architecture. Five 500-pound surface boulders are placed throughout the mounded areas, grounding the composition with natural scale and weight.
River Run & Materials
Three tons of 3"x6" rip rap create a dry river run that flows through the redesigned grade, channeling storm water naturally while adding texture and movement. Three tons of fill dirt support the contouring and mounding work, and approximately 17 tons of the site's original granite was respread across the finished landscape.
Planting Design
The plant palette is entirely desert-adapted. Twenty-six five-gallon desert shrubs and ground covers layer the mounded areas. Sixteen five-gallon cacti and succulents — including Mexican Fence Post, Gopher Plant, assorted agaves, Argentine Giants, and Golden Barrels — provide sculptural structure. A six-foot bare root ocotillo serves as a dramatic vertical accent.
Irrigation
A new two-zone drip irrigation system — including a Febco backflow preventer, pressure regulator, timer, valve box, and poly line with emitters — was installed to maintain separate watering schedules for the plant and cactus zones.
Lighting
Five commercial-grade antique brass landscape spotlights were integrated throughout the space, wired with 500 feet of cable tied into the home's existing transformer. The result is a fully illuminated evening landscape that highlights boulder groupings, the river run, and key specimen plants.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

A complete desert landscape renovation — from demo through final planting — designed to honor the Sonoran Desert character of the property while adding structure, drama, and year-round visual interest.
The scope opened with full site demolition: removal of approximately 20 existing plants, regrading for a new curved pony wall and mounded terrain, and excavation for a new river run. Existing granite was preserved and redistributed rather than removed, reducing waste and maintaining the site's established material palette.
Hardscape & Structure
A 20-linear-foot curved retention wall built from standard block with a stucco cap defines a planting border along the property edge. The facing side is clad in 45 square feet of stone veneer matched precisely to the home's exterior — a detail that ties the landscape directly to the architecture. Five 500-pound surface boulders are placed throughout the mounded areas, grounding the composition with natural scale and weight.
River Run & Materials
Three tons of 3"x6" rip rap create a dry river run that flows through the redesigned grade, channeling storm water naturally while adding texture and movement. Three tons of fill dirt support the contouring and mounding work, and approximately 17 tons of the site's original granite was respread across the finished landscape.
Planting Design
The plant palette is entirely desert-adapted. Twenty-six five-gallon desert shrubs and ground covers layer the mounded areas. Sixteen five-gallon cacti and succulents — including Mexican Fence Post, Gopher Plant, assorted agaves, Argentine Giants, and Golden Barrels — provide sculptural structure. A six-foot bare root ocotillo serves as a dramatic vertical accent.
Irrigation
A new two-zone drip irrigation system — including a Febco backflow preventer, pressure regulator, timer, valve box, and poly line with emitters — was installed to maintain separate watering schedules for the plant and cactus zones.
Lighting
Five commercial-grade antique brass landscape spotlights were integrated throughout the space, wired with 500 feet of cable tied into the home's existing transformer. The result is a fully illuminated evening landscape that highlights boulder groupings, the river run, and key specimen plants.

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

A complete desert landscape renovation — from demo through final planting — designed to honor the Sonoran Desert character of the property while adding structure, drama, and year-round visual interest.
The scope opened with full site demolition: removal of approximately 20 existing plants, regrading for a new curved pony wall and mounded terrain, and excavation for a new river run. Existing granite was preserved and redistributed rather than removed, reducing waste and maintaining the site's established material palette.
Hardscape & Structure
A 20-linear-foot curved retention wall built from standard block with a stucco cap defines a planting border along the property edge. The facing side is clad in 45 square feet of stone veneer matched precisely to the home's exterior — a detail that ties the landscape directly to the architecture. Five 500-pound surface boulders are placed throughout the mounded areas, grounding the composition with natural scale and weight.
River Run & Materials
Three tons of 3"x6" rip rap create a dry river run that flows through the redesigned grade, channeling storm water naturally while adding texture and movement. Three tons of fill dirt support the contouring and mounding work, and approximately 17 tons of the site's original granite was respread across the finished landscape.
Planting Design
The plant palette is entirely desert-adapted. Twenty-six five-gallon desert shrubs and ground covers layer the mounded areas. Sixteen five-gallon cacti and succulents — including Mexican Fence Post, Gopher Plant, assorted agaves, Argentine Giants, and Golden Barrels — provide sculptural structure. A six-foot bare root ocotillo serves as a dramatic vertical accent.
Irrigation
A new two-zone drip irrigation system — including a Febco backflow preventer, pressure regulator, timer, valve box, and poly line with emitters — was installed to maintain separate watering schedules for the plant and cactus zones.
Lighting
Five commercial-grade antique brass landscape spotlights were integrated throughout the space, wired with 500 feet of cable tied into the home's existing transformer. The result is a fully illuminated evening landscape that highlights boulder groupings, the river run, and key specimen plants.

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

DUETTE® Honeycomb Shades
The Original Energy-Efficient Honeycomb Shade
An innovative window treatment that looks beautiful and insulates your home all year round, Duette® Honeycomb Shades were the first cellular shades, specially engineered to provide energy efficiency at the window in both cold and warm climates. Their specially engineered honeycomb construction traps air in distinct pockets, which creates insulation that can help lower your energy consumption and energy bills.
Decorate every kind of window you have—even tricky skylights and unusually shaped panes—with Duette. Our signature honeycomb shades are one of our most versatile options and beautify every kind of interior.
Key Features
Premium Design & Style—Explore the richness of texture and warmth offered by The Alustra® Collection of Duette, a thoughtfully curated suite of exclusive design-inspired fabrics, textures, colors and hardware created to meet the expectations of leading designers and discerning consumers who seek the best in design.
Largest Selection in the Industry—Explore the widest selection of cellular pleat sizes, opacities, colors, textures and operating systems. Duette shades can also accommodate many specialty shaped windows, even tricky skylights.
Energy-Efficiency—Studies show that windows are responsible for up to 30% of your home’s energy losses. Duette shades trap air in distinct pockets, creating exceptional insulation. Our latest innovation, Duette Architella®, features a honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design for even greater energy efficiency.
Room Darkening—The LightLock™ system, the newest iteration from Duette, is the first operating system of its kind to offer unparalleled darkness. The secret lies within the patent-pending side channel design, optimized to absorb or deflect nearly all incoming light.
Durability—All of our high-performing fabrics are resistant to fading and will maintain their crisp, neat pleats over time.
Vertical Application—For doors that need extra insulation, the Duette Vertiglide™ operating system is the ideal option. It’s designed for vertical applications and uses the same fabrics as your horizontal Duette shades. Use one shade to cover the entire expanse of a sliding door, or, cover the door with a split stack Vertiglide shade, with each side operating independently.
Sound Absorption—Improve your room’s acoustics while reducing the intensity of outside sound. Duette Honeycomb Shades absorb up to 70% of sound energy, creating a more quiet, tranquil room.
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19 Addison Pl
Valley Stream, NY 11580
Call Us (516) 593-0044
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Creating a forever home requires more than beautiful finishes. It requires thoughtful planning, adaptable design, and spaces that can evolve alongside the people who live in them. This NE Portland remodel combined a complete kitchen transformation with a custom aging-in-place addition, allowing the homeowners to enjoy greater comfort, accessibility, and independence for years to come.
At the heart of the project was a kitchen that no longer served the homeowners' needs. The original space felt cramped and inefficient, with limited countertop workspace, underutilized corner storage, and numerous circulation pinch points. An awkward dining nook offered little functionality, while a soffit ceiling unnecessarily reduced cabinet height and valuable storage potential. Even simple everyday tasks were becoming increasingly challenging within the confined layout.
Through a comprehensive design-build approach, the kitchen was completely reimagined to improve both function and flow. While maintaining the existing sink and range locations to maximize budget efficiency, the layout was strategically redesigned to create significantly more usable workspace and storage. A previously wasted corner now houses a functional lazy Susan, the dishwasher was relocated beside the sink for improved workflow, and custom cabinet solutions provide dedicated storage for spices, oils, pots, and pans. Replacing the former sliding glass door with a window allowed for an expansive L-shaped countertop and cabinetry run, transforming the former dining nook into a highly functional extension of the kitchen.
The updated material palette reflects a warm Northwest aesthetic. Lightly stained cabinetry, a timeless cream subway tile backsplash, and crisp white trim create an inviting foundation, while durable luxury vinyl tile flooring offers the appearance of natural stone with the comfort, resiliency, and water resistance needed for everyday living. A robin's egg blue granite composite sink, chosen in the homeowner's favorite color, introduces a playful yet sophisticated focal point within the otherwise neutral space. Preserving the home's original archway helped maintain architectural character while seamlessly connecting the renovated spaces.
Equally transformative was the addition of a 441-square-foot aging-in-place suite designed to support long-term independence while feeling fully integrated with the existing home. Built off the dining room, the addition provides a future-ready living environment that can function as a private primary suite should mobility challenges arise. Covered pathways connect the home and detached garage, while a sheltered accessibility ramp offers an alternative entrance, ensuring safe and convenient access regardless of weather conditions.
Inside, universal design principles guided every decision. The spacious bedroom comfortably accommodates sleeping and sitting areas while allowing room for mobility aids if needed in the future. A walk-in closet includes a secondary laundry area with side-by-side washer and dryer access, eliminating the need to navigate basement stairs for essential daily tasks.
The bathroom was thoughtfully designed to support changing mobility needs without sacrificing style. A generous vanity provides knee clearance for seated use, while the layout includes ample transfer space around the toilet for accessibility. The oversized curbless shower offers exceptional maneuverability, including space for wheelchair turning radii and future adaptability. Multiple showering options, including a hand shower mounted to a grab bar system, provide flexibility, comfort, and additional support. Integrated grab bars, slip-resistant porcelain tile flooring, and strategic lighting solutions further enhance safety while maintaining a refined residential aesthetic.
Natural light was another priority. A new skylight floods the bathroom with daylight while also providing soft moonlight illumination after dark. An LED medicine cabinet delivers additional task lighting, storage, and nighttime visibility without relying solely on overhead fixtures.
Throughout the addition, careful material selections create continuity with the remodeled kitchen. Warm-toned luxury vinyl plank flooring, coordinating cabinetry finishes, chrome plumbing fixtures, and a soft sage-green quartz countertop contribute to a calming and cohesive environment. On the exterior, matching siding, paint colors, rooflines, and black-framed windows ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the original architecture, making it appear as though it has always been part of the home.
What makes this project especially meaningful is how it balances immediate lifestyle improvements with long-term planning. By incorporating universal design strategies, accessibility features, and aging-in-place considerations into a beautiful and highly functional remodel, the homeowners gained both peace of mind and enhanced everyday living. The result is a home that supports independence, promotes comfort, and remains ready for whatever the future may bring.

Creating a forever home requires more than beautiful finishes. It requires thoughtful planning, adaptable design, and spaces that can evolve alongside the people who live in them. This NE Portland remodel combined a complete kitchen transformation with a custom aging-in-place addition, allowing the homeowners to enjoy greater comfort, accessibility, and independence for years to come.
At the heart of the project was a kitchen that no longer served the homeowners' needs. The original space felt cramped and inefficient, with limited countertop workspace, underutilized corner storage, and numerous circulation pinch points. An awkward dining nook offered little functionality, while a soffit ceiling unnecessarily reduced cabinet height and valuable storage potential. Even simple everyday tasks were becoming increasingly challenging within the confined layout.
Through a comprehensive design-build approach, the kitchen was completely reimagined to improve both function and flow. While maintaining the existing sink and range locations to maximize budget efficiency, the layout was strategically redesigned to create significantly more usable workspace and storage. A previously wasted corner now houses a functional lazy Susan, the dishwasher was relocated beside the sink for improved workflow, and custom cabinet solutions provide dedicated storage for spices, oils, pots, and pans. Replacing the former sliding glass door with a window allowed for an expansive L-shaped countertop and cabinetry run, transforming the former dining nook into a highly functional extension of the kitchen.
The updated material palette reflects a warm Northwest aesthetic. Lightly stained cabinetry, a timeless cream subway tile backsplash, and crisp white trim create an inviting foundation, while durable luxury vinyl tile flooring offers the appearance of natural stone with the comfort, resiliency, and water resistance needed for everyday living. A robin's egg blue granite composite sink, chosen in the homeowner's favorite color, introduces a playful yet sophisticated focal point within the otherwise neutral space. Preserving the home's original archway helped maintain architectural character while seamlessly connecting the renovated spaces.
Equally transformative was the addition of a 441-square-foot aging-in-place suite designed to support long-term independence while feeling fully integrated with the existing home. Built off the dining room, the addition provides a future-ready living environment that can function as a private primary suite should mobility challenges arise. Covered pathways connect the home and detached garage, while a sheltered accessibility ramp offers an alternative entrance, ensuring safe and convenient access regardless of weather conditions.
Inside, universal design principles guided every decision. The spacious bedroom comfortably accommodates sleeping and sitting areas while allowing room for mobility aids if needed in the future. A walk-in closet includes a secondary laundry area with side-by-side washer and dryer access, eliminating the need to navigate basement stairs for essential daily tasks.
The bathroom was thoughtfully designed to support changing mobility needs without sacrificing style. A generous vanity provides knee clearance for seated use, while the layout includes ample transfer space around the toilet for accessibility. The oversized curbless shower offers exceptional maneuverability, including space for wheelchair turning radii and future adaptability. Multiple showering options, including a hand shower mounted to a grab bar system, provide flexibility, comfort, and additional support. Integrated grab bars, slip-resistant porcelain tile flooring, and strategic lighting solutions further enhance safety while maintaining a refined residential aesthetic.
Natural light was another priority. A new skylight floods the bathroom with daylight while also providing soft moonlight illumination after dark. An LED medicine cabinet delivers additional task lighting, storage, and nighttime visibility without relying solely on overhead fixtures.
Throughout the addition, careful material selections create continuity with the remodeled kitchen. Warm-toned luxury vinyl plank flooring, coordinating cabinetry finishes, chrome plumbing fixtures, and a soft sage-green quartz countertop contribute to a calming and cohesive environment. On the exterior, matching siding, paint colors, rooflines, and black-framed windows ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the original architecture, making it appear as though it has always been part of the home.
What makes this project especially meaningful is how it balances immediate lifestyle improvements with long-term planning. By incorporating universal design strategies, accessibility features, and aging-in-place considerations into a beautiful and highly functional remodel, the homeowners gained both peace of mind and enhanced everyday living. The result is a home that supports independence, promotes comfort, and remains ready for whatever the future may bring.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

Creating a forever home requires more than beautiful finishes. It requires thoughtful planning, adaptable design, and spaces that can evolve alongside the people who live in them. This NE Portland remodel combined a complete kitchen transformation with a custom aging-in-place addition, allowing the homeowners to enjoy greater comfort, accessibility, and independence for years to come.
At the heart of the project was a kitchen that no longer served the homeowners' needs. The original space felt cramped and inefficient, with limited countertop workspace, underutilized corner storage, and numerous circulation pinch points. An awkward dining nook offered little functionality, while a soffit ceiling unnecessarily reduced cabinet height and valuable storage potential. Even simple everyday tasks were becoming increasingly challenging within the confined layout.
Through a comprehensive design-build approach, the kitchen was completely reimagined to improve both function and flow. While maintaining the existing sink and range locations to maximize budget efficiency, the layout was strategically redesigned to create significantly more usable workspace and storage. A previously wasted corner now houses a functional lazy Susan, the dishwasher was relocated beside the sink for improved workflow, and custom cabinet solutions provide dedicated storage for spices, oils, pots, and pans. Replacing the former sliding glass door with a window allowed for an expansive L-shaped countertop and cabinetry run, transforming the former dining nook into a highly functional extension of the kitchen.
The updated material palette reflects a warm Northwest aesthetic. Lightly stained cabinetry, a timeless cream subway tile backsplash, and crisp white trim create an inviting foundation, while durable luxury vinyl tile flooring offers the appearance of natural stone with the comfort, resiliency, and water resistance needed for everyday living. A robin's egg blue granite composite sink, chosen in the homeowner's favorite color, introduces a playful yet sophisticated focal point within the otherwise neutral space. Preserving the home's original archway helped maintain architectural character while seamlessly connecting the renovated spaces.
Equally transformative was the addition of a 441-square-foot aging-in-place suite designed to support long-term independence while feeling fully integrated with the existing home. Built off the dining room, the addition provides a future-ready living environment that can function as a private primary suite should mobility challenges arise. Covered pathways connect the home and detached garage, while a sheltered accessibility ramp offers an alternative entrance, ensuring safe and convenient access regardless of weather conditions.
Inside, universal design principles guided every decision. The spacious bedroom comfortably accommodates sleeping and sitting areas while allowing room for mobility aids if needed in the future. A walk-in closet includes a secondary laundry area with side-by-side washer and dryer access, eliminating the need to navigate basement stairs for essential daily tasks.
The bathroom was thoughtfully designed to support changing mobility needs without sacrificing style. A generous vanity provides knee clearance for seated use, while the layout includes ample transfer space around the toilet for accessibility. The oversized curbless shower offers exceptional maneuverability, including space for wheelchair turning radii and future adaptability. Multiple showering options, including a hand shower mounted to a grab bar system, provide flexibility, comfort, and additional support. Integrated grab bars, slip-resistant porcelain tile flooring, and strategic lighting solutions further enhance safety while maintaining a refined residential aesthetic.
Natural light was another priority. A new skylight floods the bathroom with daylight while also providing soft moonlight illumination after dark. An LED medicine cabinet delivers additional task lighting, storage, and nighttime visibility without relying solely on overhead fixtures.
Throughout the addition, careful material selections create continuity with the remodeled kitchen. Warm-toned luxury vinyl plank flooring, coordinating cabinetry finishes, chrome plumbing fixtures, and a soft sage-green quartz countertop contribute to a calming and cohesive environment. On the exterior, matching siding, paint colors, rooflines, and black-framed windows ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the original architecture, making it appear as though it has always been part of the home.
What makes this project especially meaningful is how it balances immediate lifestyle improvements with long-term planning. By incorporating universal design strategies, accessibility features, and aging-in-place considerations into a beautiful and highly functional remodel, the homeowners gained both peace of mind and enhanced everyday living. The result is a home that supports independence, promotes comfort, and remains ready for whatever the future may bring.

Creating a forever home requires more than beautiful finishes. It requires thoughtful planning, adaptable design, and spaces that can evolve alongside the people who live in them. This NE Portland remodel combined a complete kitchen transformation with a custom aging-in-place addition, allowing the homeowners to enjoy greater comfort, accessibility, and independence for years to come.
At the heart of the project was a kitchen that no longer served the homeowners' needs. The original space felt cramped and inefficient, with limited countertop workspace, underutilized corner storage, and numerous circulation pinch points. An awkward dining nook offered little functionality, while a soffit ceiling unnecessarily reduced cabinet height and valuable storage potential. Even simple everyday tasks were becoming increasingly challenging within the confined layout.
Through a comprehensive design-build approach, the kitchen was completely reimagined to improve both function and flow. While maintaining the existing sink and range locations to maximize budget efficiency, the layout was strategically redesigned to create significantly more usable workspace and storage. A previously wasted corner now houses a functional lazy Susan, the dishwasher was relocated beside the sink for improved workflow, and custom cabinet solutions provide dedicated storage for spices, oils, pots, and pans. Replacing the former sliding glass door with a window allowed for an expansive L-shaped countertop and cabinetry run, transforming the former dining nook into a highly functional extension of the kitchen.
The updated material palette reflects a warm Northwest aesthetic. Lightly stained cabinetry, a timeless cream subway tile backsplash, and crisp white trim create an inviting foundation, while durable luxury vinyl tile flooring offers the appearance of natural stone with the comfort, resiliency, and water resistance needed for everyday living. A robin's egg blue granite composite sink, chosen in the homeowner's favorite color, introduces a playful yet sophisticated focal point within the otherwise neutral space. Preserving the home's original archway helped maintain architectural character while seamlessly connecting the renovated spaces.
Equally transformative was the addition of a 441-square-foot aging-in-place suite designed to support long-term independence while feeling fully integrated with the existing home. Built off the dining room, the addition provides a future-ready living environment that can function as a private primary suite should mobility challenges arise. Covered pathways connect the home and detached garage, while a sheltered accessibility ramp offers an alternative entrance, ensuring safe and convenient access regardless of weather conditions.
Inside, universal design principles guided every decision. The spacious bedroom comfortably accommodates sleeping and sitting areas while allowing room for mobility aids if needed in the future. A walk-in closet includes a secondary laundry area with side-by-side washer and dryer access, eliminating the need to navigate basement stairs for essential daily tasks.
The bathroom was thoughtfully designed to support changing mobility needs without sacrificing style. A generous vanity provides knee clearance for seated use, while the layout includes ample transfer space around the toilet for accessibility. The oversized curbless shower offers exceptional maneuverability, including space for wheelchair turning radii and future adaptability. Multiple showering options, including a hand shower mounted to a grab bar system, provide flexibility, comfort, and additional support. Integrated grab bars, slip-resistant porcelain tile flooring, and strategic lighting solutions further enhance safety while maintaining a refined residential aesthetic.
Natural light was another priority. A new skylight floods the bathroom with daylight while also providing soft moonlight illumination after dark. An LED medicine cabinet delivers additional task lighting, storage, and nighttime visibility without relying solely on overhead fixtures.
Throughout the addition, careful material selections create continuity with the remodeled kitchen. Warm-toned luxury vinyl plank flooring, coordinating cabinetry finishes, chrome plumbing fixtures, and a soft sage-green quartz countertop contribute to a calming and cohesive environment. On the exterior, matching siding, paint colors, rooflines, and black-framed windows ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the original architecture, making it appear as though it has always been part of the home.
What makes this project especially meaningful is how it balances immediate lifestyle improvements with long-term planning. By incorporating universal design strategies, accessibility features, and aging-in-place considerations into a beautiful and highly functional remodel, the homeowners gained both peace of mind and enhanced everyday living. The result is a home that supports independence, promotes comfort, and remains ready for whatever the future may bring.

Creating a forever home requires more than beautiful finishes. It requires thoughtful planning, adaptable design, and spaces that can evolve alongside the people who live in them. This NE Portland remodel combined a complete kitchen transformation with a custom aging-in-place addition, allowing the homeowners to enjoy greater comfort, accessibility, and independence for years to come.
At the heart of the project was a kitchen that no longer served the homeowners' needs. The original space felt cramped and inefficient, with limited countertop workspace, underutilized corner storage, and numerous circulation pinch points. An awkward dining nook offered little functionality, while a soffit ceiling unnecessarily reduced cabinet height and valuable storage potential. Even simple everyday tasks were becoming increasingly challenging within the confined layout.
Through a comprehensive design-build approach, the kitchen was completely reimagined to improve both function and flow. While maintaining the existing sink and range locations to maximize budget efficiency, the layout was strategically redesigned to create significantly more usable workspace and storage. A previously wasted corner now houses a functional lazy Susan, the dishwasher was relocated beside the sink for improved workflow, and custom cabinet solutions provide dedicated storage for spices, oils, pots, and pans. Replacing the former sliding glass door with a window allowed for an expansive L-shaped countertop and cabinetry run, transforming the former dining nook into a highly functional extension of the kitchen.
The updated material palette reflects a warm Northwest aesthetic. Lightly stained cabinetry, a timeless cream subway tile backsplash, and crisp white trim create an inviting foundation, while durable luxury vinyl tile flooring offers the appearance of natural stone with the comfort, resiliency, and water resistance needed for everyday living. A robin's egg blue granite composite sink, chosen in the homeowner's favorite color, introduces a playful yet sophisticated focal point within the otherwise neutral space. Preserving the home's original archway helped maintain architectural character while seamlessly connecting the renovated spaces.
Equally transformative was the addition of a 441-square-foot aging-in-place suite designed to support long-term independence while feeling fully integrated with the existing home. Built off the dining room, the addition provides a future-ready living environment that can function as a private primary suite should mobility challenges arise. Covered pathways connect the home and detached garage, while a sheltered accessibility ramp offers an alternative entrance, ensuring safe and convenient access regardless of weather conditions.
Inside, universal design principles guided every decision. The spacious bedroom comfortably accommodates sleeping and sitting areas while allowing room for mobility aids if needed in the future. A walk-in closet includes a secondary laundry area with side-by-side washer and dryer access, eliminating the need to navigate basement stairs for essential daily tasks.
The bathroom was thoughtfully designed to support changing mobility needs without sacrificing style. A generous vanity provides knee clearance for seated use, while the layout includes ample transfer space around the toilet for accessibility. The oversized curbless shower offers exceptional maneuverability, including space for wheelchair turning radii and future adaptability. Multiple showering options, including a hand shower mounted to a grab bar system, provide flexibility, comfort, and additional support. Integrated grab bars, slip-resistant porcelain tile flooring, and strategic lighting solutions further enhance safety while maintaining a refined residential aesthetic.
Natural light was another priority. A new skylight floods the bathroom with daylight while also providing soft moonlight illumination after dark. An LED medicine cabinet delivers additional task lighting, storage, and nighttime visibility without relying solely on overhead fixtures.
Throughout the addition, careful material selections create continuity with the remodeled kitchen. Warm-toned luxury vinyl plank flooring, coordinating cabinetry finishes, chrome plumbing fixtures, and a soft sage-green quartz countertop contribute to a calming and cohesive environment. On the exterior, matching siding, paint colors, rooflines, and black-framed windows ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the original architecture, making it appear as though it has always been part of the home.
What makes this project especially meaningful is how it balances immediate lifestyle improvements with long-term planning. By incorporating universal design strategies, accessibility features, and aging-in-place considerations into a beautiful and highly functional remodel, the homeowners gained both peace of mind and enhanced everyday living. The result is a home that supports independence, promotes comfort, and remains ready for whatever the future may bring.
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