Search results for "Reduce utility" in Home Design Ideas

Another fun Crestview project! This young couple wanted a back yard that reflected their bohemian-eclectic style and could add additional privacy from the ever climbing construction around them. A place for “hanging out and drinking coffee or beer in the backyard.” But what was most exciting, was the air stream they had just purchased and were in the process of restoring. With the end goal of using it as a guest home for family and friends, we were challenged with creating a space that was cohesive and connected this new living space with the rest of the yard.
In the front we had another quark to fix. The sidewalk from their front door to the street suddenly stopped 5 feet from the curb, making a less than inviting entry for guests. So, creating a new usable entryway with additional curb appeal was a top priority.
We managed the entertainment space by using modern poured concrete pad’s as a focal. A poured concrete wall serves as a bench as well as creates a visual anchor for the patio area. To soften the hard materials, small plantings of succulents and ground cover were planted in the spaces between the pads. For a backdrop, a custom Cedar Plank wall and trellis combined to soften the vertical space and add plenty of privacy. The trellis is anchored by a Coral Vine to add interest. Cafe style lighting was strung across the area create a sense of intimacy.
We also completed the fence transition, and eliminated the grass areas that were not being utilized to reduce the amount of water waste in the landscape, and replaced these areas with beneficial plantings for the wildlife.
Overall, this landscape was completed with a cohesive Austin-friendly design in mind for these busy young professionals!
Caleb Kerr - http://www.calebkerr.com

SunPower® home solar panels can help lower your energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
Small mountain style gray one-story exterior home photo in Other
Small mountain style gray one-story exterior home photo in Other

The Setup
For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners sought to transform their outdated, beige-toned space into a bright, functional sanctuary. The existing bathroom felt cramped and lifeless, with a small shower and limited storage options. The goal was to create a fresh, updated bathroom that maximizes the existing footprint while addressing specific desires for a more open, organized space with timeless materials.
Design objectives:
Brighten the bathroom and eliminate the dated beige color scheme
Install a freestanding tub in a compact space
Create a larger, more open shower without encroaching on the existing foot print too much
Incorporate hidden storage solutions
Maintain the existing bathroom layout while improving functionality
Update lighting and fixtures to create a contemporary feel
The Remodel
Design challenges to be solved:
- Compact Space Utilization – The small bathroom required careful planning to accommodate a freestanding tub while maintaining functionality and avoiding overcrowding.
- Hidden Storage Integration – The clients wanted a discreet hamper solution that wouldn’t clutter the limited floor space.
- Shower Niche Placement – With plumbing limitations and the clients’ desire to preserve their wavy accent tile wall, finding the perfect niche spot became a creative puzzle.
- Tile and Finish Coordination – Selecting complementary white tile and floor materials that worked harmoniously together.
- Larger Shower Space – Make the shower feel more open and brighter
The Renewed Space
Design solutions:
- Strategic Tub Placement – The freestanding tub was carefully positioned to maximize space, with its faucet strategically placed to allow easy access while preserving walking room. We reduced the counter depth just a bit by the tub, allowing more room for hamper cabinet and window access.
- Concealed Hamper Storage – A custom pull-out hamper was integrated into the vanity (right side, by tub), providing discreet storage within an 18-inch depth constraint.
- Shower Plumbing Wall Niche – We shifted the niche left, just enough to work around the plumbing infrastructure and still score a roomy storage spot that looks intentional.
- Sophisticated Selections – Porcelanosa curvy white tile, Kohler brushed gold fixtures, and a neutral grey tile floor created a simple, timeless aesthetic that will be loved years to come.
- Open Shower – Replacing the side wall with a clear glass surround, continuing the tile on the ceiling and extending the footprint opened up this area to the room while allowing more natural lighting into the shower space.
This bathroom transformation shows how thoughtful design turns challenges into opportunities. Brushed gold fixtures add warmth to the fresh white palette, while the perfectly balanced floor tile brings just the right depth. A partially glass-fronted vanity introduces subtle charm, giving the space a unique edge. Once cramped and outdated, this bathroom now feels bright, spacious, and serene—a testament to how every design detail makes a difference.
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PROJECT | Duplicate-Duplex
TYPE | private residence / home-studio
LOCATION | Phayathai Rd., Bangkok, Thailand
OWNER | Ms. Najaree Ratanajiajaroen / Chanon Treenet
ARCHITECT | TOUCH Architect Co.,Ltd.
FLOOR AREA | 64 sq.m.
FLOOR AREA (by proposing) | 75 sq.m.
COMPLETION | 2018
PHOTOGRAPHER | Chalermwat Wongchompoo
CONTRACTOR | Legend Construction Group
A major pain point of staying in 64 sq.m. of duplex condominium unit, which is used for a home-studio for an animator and an artist, is that there is not enough space for dwelling. Moreover, a double-volume space of living area with a huge glass curtain wall, faces West. High temperature occurs all day long, since it allows direct sunlight to come inside.
In order to solve both mentioned problems, three addition items are proposed which are, GRID PARTITION, EXTENSION DECK, and STEPPING SPACE.
A glass partition not only dividing space between kitchen and living, but also helps reduce electricity charge from air-condition. Grid-like of double glass frame is for stuff and stationery hanging, as to serve the owners’ activities.
Extension deck would help filtrating heat from direct sunlight, since an existing high glass facade facing West.
An existing staircase for going up to the second-floor bedroom, is added by a proposed space above, since this condominium unit has no enough space for dwelling or storage. In order to utilize the space in a small condominium, creating another staircase above the existing one helps increase the space.
The grid partition and the extension deck help ‘decrease’ the electricity charge, while the extension deck and the stepping space help ‘increase’ the space for 11 sq.m.

The Setup
For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners sought to transform their outdated, beige-toned space into a bright, functional sanctuary. The existing bathroom felt cramped and lifeless, with a small shower and limited storage options. The goal was to create a fresh, updated bathroom that maximizes the existing footprint while addressing specific desires for a more open, organized space with timeless materials.
Design objectives:
Brighten the bathroom and eliminate the dated beige color scheme
Install a freestanding tub in a compact space
Create a larger, more open shower without encroaching on the existing foot print too much
Incorporate hidden storage solutions
Maintain the existing bathroom layout while improving functionality
Update lighting and fixtures to create a contemporary feel
The Remodel
Design challenges to be solved:
- Compact Space Utilization – The small bathroom required careful planning to accommodate a freestanding tub while maintaining functionality and avoiding overcrowding.
- Hidden Storage Integration – The clients wanted a discreet hamper solution that wouldn’t clutter the limited floor space.
- Shower Niche Placement – With plumbing limitations and the clients’ desire to preserve their wavy accent tile wall, finding the perfect niche spot became a creative puzzle.
- Tile and Finish Coordination – Selecting complementary white tile and floor materials that worked harmoniously together.
- Larger Shower Space – Make the shower feel more open and brighter
The Renewed Space
Design solutions:
- Strategic Tub Placement – The freestanding tub was carefully positioned to maximize space, with its faucet strategically placed to allow easy access while preserving walking room. We reduced the counter depth just a bit by the tub, allowing more room for hamper cabinet and window access.
- Concealed Hamper Storage – A custom pull-out hamper was integrated into the vanity (right side, by tub), providing discreet storage within an 18-inch depth constraint.
- Shower Plumbing Wall Niche – We shifted the niche left, just enough to work around the plumbing infrastructure and still score a roomy storage spot that looks intentional.
- Sophisticated Selections – Porcelanosa curvy white tile, Kohler brushed gold fixtures, and a neutral grey tile floor created a simple, timeless aesthetic that will be loved years to come.
- Open Shower – Replacing the side wall with a clear glass surround, continuing the tile on the ceiling and extending the footprint opened up this area to the room while allowing more natural lighting into the shower space.
This bathroom transformation shows how thoughtful design turns challenges into opportunities. Brushed gold fixtures add warmth to the fresh white palette, while the perfectly balanced floor tile brings just the right depth. A partially glass-fronted vanity introduces subtle charm, giving the space a unique edge. Once cramped and outdated, this bathroom now feels bright, spacious, and serene—a testament to how every design detail makes a difference.

This kitchen has an entire wall of dedicated storage - but it is designed to be in flow with the opposite wall which is the work area of the room. With opening up the main floor of this home, we reduced the wall area for storage, so it was important to add as much as possible to keep the utility, but lean in to a full contemporary space with minimal walls. Behind the doors are pull out drawers as well as open shelves.

Xeriscaping is extremely popular, especially in Southern California. With rising water costs, many homeowners have turned to xeriscaping to lower their utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint. Xeriscaping entails the creative use of hardscape and native and succulant plants to create a beautiful, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape design.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

The Setup
For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners sought to transform their outdated, beige-toned space into a bright, functional sanctuary. The existing bathroom felt cramped and lifeless, with a small shower and limited storage options. The goal was to create a fresh, updated bathroom that maximizes the existing footprint while addressing specific desires for a more open, organized space with timeless materials.
Design objectives:
Brighten the bathroom and eliminate the dated beige color scheme
Install a freestanding tub in a compact space
Create a larger, more open shower without encroaching on the existing foot print too much
Incorporate hidden storage solutions
Maintain the existing bathroom layout while improving functionality
Update lighting and fixtures to create a contemporary feel
The Remodel
Design challenges to be solved:
- Compact Space Utilization – The small bathroom required careful planning to accommodate a freestanding tub while maintaining functionality and avoiding overcrowding.
- Hidden Storage Integration – The clients wanted a discreet hamper solution that wouldn’t clutter the limited floor space.
- Shower Niche Placement – With plumbing limitations and the clients’ desire to preserve their wavy accent tile wall, finding the perfect niche spot became a creative puzzle.
- Tile and Finish Coordination – Selecting complementary white tile and floor materials that worked harmoniously together.
- Larger Shower Space – Make the shower feel more open and brighter
The Renewed Space
Design solutions:
- Strategic Tub Placement – The freestanding tub was carefully positioned to maximize space, with its faucet strategically placed to allow easy access while preserving walking room. We reduced the counter depth just a bit by the tub, allowing more room for hamper cabinet and window access.
- Concealed Hamper Storage – A custom pull-out hamper was integrated into the vanity (right side, by tub), providing discreet storage within an 18-inch depth constraint.
- Shower Plumbing Wall Niche – We shifted the niche left, just enough to work around the plumbing infrastructure and still score a roomy storage spot that looks intentional.
- Sophisticated Selections – Porcelanosa curvy white tile, Kohler brushed gold fixtures, and a neutral grey tile floor created a simple, timeless aesthetic that will be loved years to come.
- Open Shower – Replacing the side wall with a clear glass surround, continuing the tile on the ceiling and extending the footprint opened up this area to the room while allowing more natural lighting into the shower space.
This bathroom transformation shows how thoughtful design turns challenges into opportunities. Brushed gold fixtures add warmth to the fresh white palette, while the perfectly balanced floor tile brings just the right depth. A partially glass-fronted vanity introduces subtle charm, giving the space a unique edge. Once cramped and outdated, this bathroom now feels bright, spacious, and serene—a testament to how every design detail makes a difference.

These modest homeowners were looking for drainage solutions, low maintenance plantings, and an entertainment space they could enjoy outside. Mowing the grass had been a pain in the past, so with this design we decided to remove it entirely. Instead, more native grasses were utilized to take in water and reduce erosion. A new fence modernized and updated the space and allowed the interior of the backyard to be leveled providing more opportunities for design elements like a floating bench and custom built fire pit.

Another fun Crestview project! This young couple wanted a back yard that reflected their bohemian-eclectic style and could add additional privacy from the ever climbing construction around them. A place for “hanging out and drinking coffee or beer in the backyard.” But what was most exciting, was the air stream they had just purchased and were in the process of restoring. With the end goal of using it as a guest home for family and friends, we were challenged with creating a space that was cohesive and connected this new living space with the rest of the yard.
In the front we had another quark to fix. The sidewalk from their front door to the street suddenly stopped 5 feet from the curb, making a less than inviting entry for guests. So, creating a new usable entryway with additional curb appeal was a top priority.
We managed the entertainment space by using modern poured concrete pad’s as a focal. A poured concrete wall serves as a bench as well as creates a visual anchor for the patio area. To soften the hard materials, small plantings of succulents and ground cover were planted in the spaces between the pads. For a backdrop, a custom Cedar Plank wall and trellis combined to soften the vertical space and add plenty of privacy. The trellis is anchored by a Coral Vine to add interest. Cafe style lighting was strung across the area create a sense of intimacy.
We also completed the fence transition, and eliminated the grass areas that were not being utilized to reduce the amount of water waste in the landscape, and replaced these areas with beneficial plantings for the wildlife.
Overall, this landscape was completed with a cohesive Austin-friendly design in mind for these busy young professionals!
Caleb Kerr - http://www.calebkerr.com

This is garage we were able to help utilize the height of their garage and give them back the floor space that they had lost. There is always a lot of room along the walls and up the walls that aren't used correctly to reduce clutter.

These modest homeowners were looking for drainage solutions, low maintenance plantings, and an entertainment space they could enjoy outside. Mowing the grass had been a pain in the past, so with this design we decided to remove it entirely. Instead, more native grasses were utilized to take in water and reduce erosion. A new fence modernized and updated the space and allowed the interior of the backyard to be leveled providing more opportunities for design elements like a floating bench and custom built fire pit.

Images by Nic LeHoux
Designed as a home and studio for a photographer and his young family, Lightbox is located on a peninsula that extends south from British Columbia across the border to Point Roberts. The densely forested site lies beside a 180-acre park that overlooks the Strait of Georgia, the San Juan Islands and the Puget Sound.
Having experienced the world from under a black focusing cloth and large format camera lens, the photographer has a special fondness for simplicity and an appreciation of unique, genuine and well-crafted details.
The home was made decidedly modest, in size and means, with a building skin utilizing simple materials in a straightforward yet innovative configuration. The result is a structure crafted from affordable and common materials such as exposed wood two-bys that form the structural frame and directly support a prefabricated aluminum window system of standard glazing units uniformly sized to reduce the complexity and overall cost.
Accessed from the west on a sloped boardwalk that bisects its two contrasting forms, the house sits lightly on the land above the forest floor.
A south facing two-story glassy cage for living captures the sun and view as it celebrates the interplay of light and shadow in the forest. To the north, stairs are contained in a thin wooden box stained black with a traditional Finnish pine tar coating. Narrow apertures in the otherwise solid dark wooden wall sharply focus the vibrant cropped views of the old growth fir trees at the edge of the deep forest.
Lightbox is an uncomplicated yet powerful gesture that enables one to view the subtlety and beauty of the site while providing comfort and pleasure in the constantly changing light of the forest.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

This is garage we were able to help utilize the height of their garage and give them back the floor space that they had lost. There is always a lot of room along the walls and up the walls that aren't used correctly to reduce clutter.

This is garage we were able to help utilize the height of their garage and give them back the floor space that they had lost. There is always a lot of room along the walls and up the walls that aren't used correctly to reduce clutter.

One of the hottest trends in bath design is open, clean-line spaces. This serene look is accomplished by reducing distractions caused by too many ornate details. This client approached Renovisions to remodel her outdated master bath and create a clean and uncluttered space with a contemporary flair. The bathtub and tile floor remains in the new design adding a small challenge to coordinate the right color selection for shower and tub surround tile. The existing bath’s fiberglass shower was cramped, under utilized and under styled, so Renovisions first enlarged the depth of the shower with a complete water proof system, hand-held shower and soap dish, corner shelf and safety grab bar.
A teak veneer vanity was designed to compliment the client’s master bedroom teak furniture. A beautiful combination of sleek grey quartz countertop, rectangular under-mount sink, modern plumbing fixtures, stylish hardware and a simple yet elegant tilt mirror completed the contemporary look.
This renewed master bath combines functionality and aesthetics in perfect harmony.

PROJECT | Duplicate-Duplex
TYPE | private residence / home-studio
LOCATION | Phayathai Rd., Bangkok, Thailand
OWNER | Ms. Najaree Ratanajiajaroen / Chanon Treenet
ARCHITECT | TOUCH Architect Co.,Ltd.
FLOOR AREA | 64 sq.m.
FLOOR AREA (by proposing) | 75 sq.m.
COMPLETION | 2018
PHOTOGRAPHER | Chalermwat Wongchompoo
CONTRACTOR | Legend Construction Group
A major pain point of staying in 64 sq.m. of duplex condominium unit, which is used for a home-studio for an animator and an artist, is that there is not enough space for dwelling. Moreover, a double-volume space of living area with a huge glass curtain wall, faces West. High temperature occurs all day long, since it allows direct sunlight to come inside.
In order to solve both mentioned problems, three addition items are proposed which are, GRID PARTITION, EXTENSION DECK, and STEPPING SPACE.
A glass partition not only dividing space between kitchen and living, but also helps reduce electricity charge from air-condition. Grid-like of double glass frame is for stuff and stationery hanging, as to serve the owners’ activities.
Extension deck would help filtrating heat from direct sunlight, since an existing high glass facade facing West.
An existing staircase for going up to the second-floor bedroom, is added by a proposed space above, since this condominium unit has no enough space for dwelling or storage. In order to utilize the space in a small condominium, creating another staircase above the existing one helps increase the space.
The grid partition and the extension deck help ‘decrease’ the electricity charge, while the extension deck and the stepping space help ‘increase’ the space for 11 sq.m.

Our clients’ recently purchase home is set in a picturesque location in Golden, Colorado. With idyllic square footage for raising a family, it was almost just what they wanted. However, the 90’s interior furnishings and dated layout didn’t feel like home. So, they reached out to TVL Creative to help them get the place move-in ready and feeling more 'them.' The scope of work included an overhaul of the master bathroom, full-home paint scheme, lighting updates, and new staircase railings. The most profound transformation within our scope was the master bathroom renovation. This luxurious space, built by TVL’s own Team Angel, is a calming retreat with gorgeous detailing throughout. Every part of this bathroom was gutted and we worked to establish a new concept and functional layout that would better serve our clients. As part of the transformative design, a calming symmetry was created by marrying the new vanity design with the existing architecture of the room. A feature tile accentuates the symmetrical composition of vanity and vaulted ceiling: large beveled mirrors and linear sconces bring the eye upward. Custom built-ins flanking the master bathroom sinks were designed to provide ample organized storage for linens and toiletries. A make-up vanity accented by a full height mirror and coordinating pendant rounds out the custom built-ins. Opposite the vanity wall is the commode room, bathtub, and a large shower. In the bathtub nook, the sculptural form of the Elise tub by MTI Baths compliments the arc of the picture window above. The Kohler Archer tub filler adds transitional and classy styling to the area. A quartz-topped bench running the length of the back wall provides a perfect spot for a glass of wine near the bath, while doubling as a gorgeous and functional seat in the shower. The bench was also utilized to move the bathtub off of the exterior wall and reduce the amount of awkward-to-clean floor space. In the shower, the upgrades feel limitless. We relocated the valve controls to the entry half wall for easy on/off access. We also created functionals shower niches that are tucked out of view for handy storage without aesthetic compromise. The shower features a lovely three-dimensional diamond accent tile and is wrapped in frameless glass for added light entry. In general, the space is outfitted with other stunning features including Kohler Archer fixtures throughout, Feiss decorative lighting, Amerock hardware on all built-ins, and cabinetry from Waypoint Living Spaces. From bachelor pad to first family home, it's been a pleasure to work with our client over the years! We will especially cherish our time working with them this time around to make their new house feel more like home.

A little over a month ago, we completed a solar installation for Omari T. in Champaign, IL. This was a 12.045 kW system on a sloped roof and the customer was very happy with the final product.
Omari T. chose us for the project because of our competitive pricing and our craftsmanship. The main reason he recommended us was because of our excellent service and nice people.
The project was completed in just a couple months and the results were great! The solar panels are from Panasonic and the inverter is from SolarEdge. The whole system is grid-tie-in and it’s already reducing Omari’s utility bill each month.
We’re so happy that we could help Omari T. with his solar needs and we’re always available to help more people go solar! If you’re interested in learning more about solar or getting a quote for your home, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

This lakefront diamond in the rough lot was waiting to be discovered by someone with a modern naturalistic vision and passion. Maintaining an eco-friendly, and sustainable build was at the top of the client priority list. Designed and situated to benefit from passive and active solar as well as through breezes from the lake, this indoor/outdoor living space truly establishes a symbiotic relationship with its natural surroundings. The pie-shaped lot provided significant challenges with a street width of 50ft, a steep shoreline buffer of 50ft, as well as a powerline easement reducing the buildable area. The client desired a smaller home of approximately 2500sf that juxtaposed modern lines with the free form of the natural setting. The 250ft of lakefront afforded 180-degree views which guided the design to maximize this vantage point while supporting the adjacent environment through preservation of heritage trees. Prior to construction the shoreline buffer had been rewilded with wildflowers, perennials, utilization of clover and meadow grasses to support healthy animal and insect re-population. The inclusion of solar panels as well as hydroponic heated floors and wood stove supported the owner’s desire to be self-sufficient. Core ten steel was selected as the predominant material to allow it to “rust” as it weathers thus blending into the natural environment.
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