This Greek Revival row house in Boerum Hill was previously owned by a local architect who renovated it several times, including the addition of a two-story steel and glass extension at the rear. The new owners came to us seeking to restore the house and its original formality, while adapting it to the modern needs of a family of five. The detailing of the 25 x 36 foot structure had been lost and required some sleuthing into the history of Greek Revival style in historic Brooklyn neighborhoods. In addition to completely re-framing the interior, the house also required a new south-facing brick façade due to significant deterioration. The modern extension was replaced with a more traditionally detailed wood and copper- clad bay, still open to natural light and the garden view without sacrificing comfort. The kitchen was relocated from the first floor to the garden level with an adjacent formal dining room. Both rooms were enlarged from their previous iterations to accommodate weekly dinners with extended family. The kitchen includes a home office and breakfast nook that doubles as a homework station. The cellar level was further excavated to accommodate finished storage space and a playroom where activity can be monitored from the kitchen workspaces. The parlor floor is now reserved for entertaining. New pocket doors can be closed to separate the formal front parlor from the more relaxed back portion, where the family plays games or watches TV together. At the end of the hall, a powder room with brass details, and a luxe bar with antique mirrored backsplash and stone tile flooring, leads to the deck and direct garden access. Because of the property width, the house is able to provide ample space for the interior program within a shorter footprint. This allows the garden to remain expansive, with a small lawn for play, an outdoor food preparation area with a cast-in-place concrete bench, and a place for entertaining towards the rear. The newly designed landscaping will continue to develop, further enhancing the yard’s feeling of escape, and filling-in the views from the kitchen and back parlor above. A less visible, but equally as conscious, addition is a rooftop PV solar array that provides nearly 100% of the daily electrical usage, with the exception of the AC system on hot summer days. The well-appointed interiors connect the traditional backdrop of the home to a youthful take on classic design and functionality. The materials are elegant without being precious, accommodating a young, growing family. Unique colors and patterns provide a feeling of luxury while inviting inhabitants and guests to relax and enjoy this classic Brooklyn brownstone. This project won runner-up in the architecture category for the 2017 NYC&G Innovation in Design Awards and was featured in The American House: 100 Contemporary Homes. Photography by Francis Dzikowski / OTTO

Packing a lot of function into a small space requires ingenuity and skill, exactly what was needed for this one-bedroom gut in the Meatpacking District. When Axis Mundi was done, all that remained was the expansive arched window. Now one enters onto a pristine white-walled loft warmed by new zebrano plank floors. A new powder room and kitchen are at right. On the left, the lean profile of a folded steel stair cantilevered off the wall allows access to the bedroom above without eating up valuable floor space. Beyond, a living room basks in ample natural light. To allow that light to penetrate to the darkest corners of the bedroom, while also affording the owner privacy, the façade of the master bath, as well as the railing at the edge of the mezzanine space, are sandblasted glass. Finally, colorful furnishings, accessories and photography animate the simply articulated architectural envelope. Project Team: John Beckmann, Nick Messerlian and Richard Rosenbloom Photographer: Mikiko Kikuyama Contractor: Vered © Axis Mundi Design LLC.

TruLine 1.6 5W 24VDC Plaster-In LED System creates a clean line of glare free general illumination within drywall. The linear LED system features a shallow .6 inch deep plaster in aluminum extrusion no thicker than drywall that houses two 2.5 watt rows of high CRI commercial grade white LED Soft Strip. Its 1.6 inch wide diffuser lens projects a clean line of light without LED dots. System mounts directly to studs without joist modification. TruLine is sold in 1 foot increments up to 40 feet at 5 watts per foot, 85+ CRI, in 2700K Very Warm White or 3000K Warm White color temperature, delivering 243 lumens per foot. 50,000 hour average lamp life. TruLine extrusion may be field cut. LED Soft Strip may be cut every 2.4 inches. TruLine runs in a straight line. The LED strip bends along the LED plane, allowing runs to continue from a wall onto a ceiling. Intersecting runs on the samewall require two separate TruLine systems. System includes TruLine 1.6 channels, end caps, LED Soft Strip, TL1.6 special junction box (quantity 2) and all mounting hardware. Power supply options include a Class 2 24 volt 0-10 96 or 192 watt dimmable with a Lightolier Sunrise ZP600FAM120; Leviton IP710-DL; Lutron Radio Ra2 with Grafik Eye, RRD-10ND and GRX-TVI; Grafik Eye QS with Grafik Eye, QSGRJ-XP and GRX-TVI; Diva with Grafik Eye, DVTV and PP20; Nova T with Grafik Eye, NTFTV-WH and PP20, sold separately. Indoor applications only. Fixture includes a 5 year warranty. Made in USA.

Big flowery puffs of Hydrangea provide base for the deck and create a nice separation from the patio. Photography by Larry Huene Photography.
Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard stone patio remodel in Chicago with a pergola

Build Iconic Inc. specializes in kitchen renovations for Brooklyn’s historic homes — brownstones, pre-war buildings, and landmarked properties where getting it right means respecting the original character while bringing the space fully up to modern standards. As a licensed NYC general contractor (DCA #2107844), we understand the unique challenges of working within older structures: uneven floors, outdated wiring, plaster walls, and, in some cases, Landmarks Preservation Commission requirements. We blend historical sensitivity with modern function, preserving original details like moldings, exposed brick, and period-appropriate finishes while updating the kitchen for how people actually cook and live today. Our historical kitchen remodeling includes: • Structural and layout updates that respect original building bones • Electrical and plumbing upgrades brought fully up to current code • Custom cabinetry and finishes that complement a home’s original era and style • Careful integration of modern appliances and smart home technology without disrupting historic character • Coordination with Landmarks requirements where applicable

Photo: A Darling Felicity Photography © 2015 Houzz
Example of a mid-sized farmhouse enclosed medium tone wood floor living room design in Seattle with white walls, a wood stove, a wood fireplace surround and a tv stand

The bathtub required careful attention; It was chosen only after our client had an opportunity to sit in it and make sure it was the perfect fit for her! It was placed under existing windows that provide a view of a private garden, with a television built into the perfect viewing spot to relax and catch up on programs.

Southwest home design photo in Phoenix

This house was designed for a couple and their son. One of the design program requirements was to have two master suites on the main level. They enjoy cooking and entertaining so the public and food prep. areas are functional, attractive and conducive to people gathering around. Consequently, the square footage of the main level is large. The house is also on a very steep slope which didn't help with the required footprint. In order to minimize the related costs of building with this site condition, the footprint of the house is long and not deep as it reaches down the slope. The scale of the existing homes in the neighborhood are unimposing. In order to play down the size as viewed from the street, the facade is broken up into several different masses with low sloping roofs. Once you're inside, the house opens up with 14 foot ceilings in the entry and living areas. The ceiling height of other spaces on the main level are 10 feet. Universal design was implemented on the main level to provide inherent accessibility for everyone. The lower level accommodates several guest rooms and baths, an exercise room, a guest den with wet bar and a man cave. Another design program requirement was to make the house as maintenance-free as possible. Exterior materials include stucco, Pennsylvania Blue Stone and a new aluminum siding product called Longboard. The siding comes in many wood grain finishes and to everyone that has seen it, they think it's real wood. It's also made from heavy gauge aluminum so it doesn't ding like traditional aluminum siding. The roofs are metal standing seam. The house is energy efficient. It's fully insulated with spray foam insulation-lots of it. The exterior walls were designed with 2x6 studs and roof rafters are 2x12 to provide plenty of space for the insulation, exceeding the required R-values. Windows and doors of course are energy efficient as well. All lighting is LED. The decking around the exterior is locust, a very hard native wood which is naturally insect and rot resistant. The best part of the whole project are the owners who love their new home. They initially had plans to live in this house during the summer months and Florida during the winter. They are now seriously considering living here full-time.

Inspiration for a small coastal galley ceramic tile and multicolored floor dedicated laundry room remodel in Salt Lake City

This is a beautiful natural freeform pool and spa recently on HGTV Ultimate Pools, located in Dallas, TX. The big thing about this project that was unique was the trees. We were required to save all the trees. There are a lot of areas where the paving is not mortared together to allow moisture and air through to help the trees. There is a 6' elevation change that helps incorporate the boulders and waterfall into the hillside for a more natural look. There was an existing green house that was removed and the existing garage was turned it into a cabana/pool house with a covered area to relax in with furniture by the deep end of the pool. There is a big deep end for lots of activity along with a nice size shallow end for water sports, including basketball. The clients' wish list included a cave, slide, and waterfalls along with a firepit. The cave can comfortably sit 6 people and is cool in the hot Texas weather. We used pockets of plants around to soften things and break up all the rock to create a more natural look with the overall setting. A bridge was built between the pool and the spa to look like an illusion that the water is running from the pool down into the spa. 2013 APSP Region3 Bronze Award - Designed by Mike Farley. FarleyPoolDesigns.com

This home had a difficult layout as far as being able to design fireplace built-ins that would create some kind of symmetry from side to side. Included in that weirdness was the space to the right of the fireplace that had a short zero-degree wall and then a long wall going off at 45 degrees. Instead of building two sections staying flat to those two walls, we decided to span the space and leave a dead space behind. Other requirements were to fit the existing tv plus leave a little room for some expansion later, plus provide storage space for a large collection of scrapbooks. Also, on the left, the customer not liking the idea of dividing the drawers up into two at each level, required using heavy-duty drawer slides to accommodate the extra-wide drawer boxes. Also note the two HVAC (floor) registers within the trim box on the top of the left unit (Required because there was an existing vent in that ceiling corner.

This home had a difficult layout as far as being able to design fireplace built-ins that would create some kind of symmetry from side to side. Included in that weirdness was the space to the right of the fireplace that had a short zero-degree wall and then a long wall going off at 45 degrees. Instead of building two sections staying flat to those two walls, we decided to span the space and leave a dead space behind. Other requirements were to fit the existing tv plus leave a little room for some expansion later, plus provide storage space for a large collection of scrapbooks. Also, on the left, the customer not liking the idea of dividing the drawers up into two at each level, required using heavy-duty drawer slides to accommodate the extra-wide drawer boxes. Also note the two HVAC (floor) registers within the trim box on the top of the left unit (Required because there was an existing vent in that ceiling corner.

The young chef, homeowner wanted a space where he could entertain guests in an open and inviting environment. A complete overhaul of the living area of the main floor was required to achieve his vision. The layout of this split level home was opened up completely to allow for a much larger feel in the living space. Photographed by: Anthony Ryan Photography

Our carpenters labored every detail from chainsaws to the finest of chisels and brad nails to achieve this eclectic industrial design. This project was not about just putting two things together, it was about coming up with the best solutions to accomplish the overall vision. A true meeting of the minds was required around every turn to achieve "rough" in its most luxurious state. Featuring multiple Columbia Cabinet finishes; contrasting backsplashes, wall textures and flooring are all part of what makes this project so unique! Features include: Sharp microwave drawer, glass front wine fridge, fully integrated dishwasher, Blanco compost bin recessed into the counter, Walnut floating shelves, and barn house lighting. PhotographerLink

The Carmody Table features a sturdy planked top and trestle legs, and provides comfortable seating for six. Customize your tabletop and legs, available in either our classic Espresso or White Distressed finish. Optional hammered steel corner brackets in Black or Copper can be added. Light assembly required (comes assembled for local pickup). All of our tables are handcrafted from solid wood in our woodworking shop in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Our furniture is finished with a multi-step process of distressing and hand-applying layers of varnish to give each piece the look of a cherished antique. Each of our works showcase the natural characteristics of wood, including variations in color, mineral streaks, knots and burls. In addition, our finishing process highlights the organic texture of wood with its pores, ridges, slits and grooves; each piece is a tactile work of art that is truly meant to be appreciated by touch. Every decorative bracket is made from steel, hand-cut and meticulously hammered to create a one-of-a-kind rustic accent for our wood furniture. Available for local pickup or shipment within 5-7 business days. DIMENSIONS: Overall: 72" long x 36" wide x 30" high Tabletop: 1.5" thick Apron: 1.5" high Distance between legs: 48" outside; 42" inside Weight: 151.6 pounds CARE AND MAINTENANCE: Dust with a soft, dry lint-free cloth. Soak up any water immediately with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Photo Credit: Michael Blevins

Free ebook, CREATING THE IDEAL KITCHEN Download now → http://bit.ly/idealkitchen After having remodeled their kitchen, and two other baths in the home, the master bathroom was the last on the list of rooms to update for this couple. The existing bath had a small sink area with his and hers sinks and then a pocket door into the main bath which housed the tub, shower and commode. The main problem was the outdated look of the space, which was rather dark and dreary, and the giant unused whirlpool tub which took up more than its fair share of the footprint. To brighten the space, we used a pallet of soft gray porcelain tile on the floor and ceramic subway tiles on the walls. Carrera marble and nickel plumbing brighten the room and help amplify the sunlight streaming in through the existing skylight and vaulted ceiling. We first placed the new freestanding tub on an angle near the window so that users can take advantage of the view and light while soaking in the tub. A new, much larger shower takes up the other corner and delivers some symmetry to the room and is now a luxurious, useable and comfortable size. The commode was relocated to the right of the new shower, so it is visually tucked away. The existing opening between the sink area and the main area was widened and the door removed so that the homeowners can enjoy the light from the larger room while using the sinks each morning. A step up into the tub/shower area provides additional interest and was a happy accident and solution required to accommodate running the plumbing through the existing floor joists. Because the existing room felt quite contemporary with the vaulted ceiling, we added a run of crown molding around the top and a chair rail to the top of the tile to provide some traditional touches to the room. We think this space is lovely, relaxing and serene and are so honored to have been chosen by these wonderful homeowners to help provide them with a relaxing master bath sanctuary! Designer: Susan Klimala Assistant Designer: Keri Rogers

This home had a difficult layout as far as being able to design fireplace built-ins that would create some kind of symmetry from side to side. Included in that weirdness was the space to the right of the fireplace that had a short zero-degree wall and then a long wall going off at 45 degrees. Instead of building two sections staying flat to those two walls, we decided to span the space and leave a dead space behind. Other requirements were to fit the existing tv plus leave a little room for some expansion later, plus provide storage space for a large collection of scrapbooks. Also, on the left, the customer not liking the idea of dividing the drawers up into two at each level, required using heavy-duty drawer slides to accommodate the extra-wide drawer boxes. Also note the two HVAC (floor) registers within the trim box on the top of the left unit (Required because there was an existing vent in that ceiling corner.