Photos by ©ThompsonPhotographic.com 2019 A passion for the Southwest inspires one couple to turn their garden into a vibrant showcase for Sonoran Desert flora. By Nancy Erdmann | Photography by Steve Thompson For someone who loves to garden and has done so in many areas of the U.S., taking on the challenge of a rocky, boulder-strewn hillside lot in the Sonoran Desert is something that Carey Bertsch relishes. “I was born in Scotland but grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. My husband, Robin, is from Indiana. We have always loved everything about the Southwest. The sunny, arid climate; the lifestyle; the flora; the fauna—they all resonate with us,” she remarks. As such, the couple, who are based in Colorado, decided to purchase a part-time residence in Arizona. They found a Santa Fe Territorial-style home that’s tucked into the base of a steep slope in North Scottsdale’s Estancia community. Populated with natural boulder outcroppings, the property’s landscape was rudimentary at best. “But we saw the potential and knew it could be so much more,” recalls Carey. She and her husband lived in the house for several years before making any major changes; they recently completed a total exterior remodel.

This project was such an incredible design opportunity, and instilled inspiration and excitement at every turn! Our amazing clients came to us with the challenge of converting their beloved family home into a welcoming haven for all members of the family. At the time that we met our clients, they were struggling with the difficult personal decision of the fate of the home. Their father/father-in-law had passed away and their mother/mother-in-law had recently been admitted into a nursing facility and was fighting Alzheimer’s. Resistant to loss of the home now that both parents were out of it, our clients purchased the home to keep in in the family. Despite their permanent home currently being in New Jersey, these clients dedicated themselves to keeping and revitalizing the house. We were moved by the story and became immediately passionate about bringing this dream to life. The home was built by the parents of our clients and was only ever owned by them, making this a truly special space to the family. Our goal was to revitalize the home and to bring new energy into every room without losing the special characteristics that were original to the home when it was built. In this way, we were able to develop a house that maintains its own unique personality while offering a space of welcoming neutrality for all members of the family to enjoy over time. The renovation touched every part of the home: the exterior, foyer, kitchen, living room, sun room, garage, six bedrooms, three bathrooms, the laundry room, and everything in between. The focus was to develop a style that carried consistently from space to space, but allowed for unique expression in the small details in every room. Starting at the entry, we renovated the front door and entry point to offer more presence and to bring more of the mid-century vibe to the home’s exterior. We integrated a new modern front door, cedar shingle accents, new exterior paint, and gorgeous contemporary house numbers that really allow the home to stand out. Just inside the entry, we renovated the foyer to create a playful entry point worthy of attention. Cement look tile adorns the foyer floor, and we’ve added new lighting and upgraded the entry coat storage. Upon entering the home, one will immediately be captivated by the stunning kitchen just off the entry. We transformed this space in just about every way. While the footprint of the home ultimately remained almost identical, the aesthetics were completely turned on their head. We re-worked the kitchen to maximize storage and to create an informal dining area that is great for casual hosting or morning coffee. We removed the entry to the garage that was once in the informal dining, and created a peninsula in its place that offers a unique division between the kitchen/informal dining and the formal dining and living areas. The simple light warm light gray cabinetry offers a bit of traditional elegance, along with the marble backsplash and quartz countertops. We extended the original wood flooring into the kitchen and stained all floors to match for a warmth that truly resonates through all spaces. We upgraded appliances, added lighting everywhere, and finished the space with some gorgeous mid century furniture pieces. In the formal dining and living room, we really focused on maintaining the original marble fireplace as a focal point. We cleaned the marble, repaired the mortar, and refinished the original fireplace screen to give a new sleek look in black. We then integrated a new gas insert for modern heating and painted the upper portion in a rich navy blue; an accent that is carried through the home consistently as a nod to our client’s love of the color. The former entry into the old covered porch is now an elegant glass door leading to a stunning finished sunroom. This room was completely upgraded as well. We wrapped the entire space in cozy white shiplap to keep a casual feel with brightness. We tiled the floor with large format concrete look tile, and painted the old brick fireplace a bright white. We installed a new gas burning unit, and integrated transitional style lighting to bring warmth and elegance into the space. The new black-frame windows are adorned with decorative shades that feature hand-sketched bird prints, and we’ve created a dedicated garden-ware “nook” for our client who loves to work in the yard. The far end of this space is completed with two oversized chaise loungers and overhead lights…the most perfect little reading nook! Just off the dining room, we created an entirely new space to the home: a mudroom. The clients lacked this space and desperately needed a landing spot upon entering the home from the garage. We uniquely planned existing space in the garage to utilize for this purpose, and were able to create a small but functional entry point without losing the ability to park cars in the garage. This new space features cement-look tile, gorgeous deep brown cabinetry, and plenty of storage for all the small items one might need to store while moving in and out of the home. The remainder of the upstairs level includes massive renovations to the guest hall bathroom and guest bedroom, upstairs master bed/bath suite, and a third bedroom that we converted into a home office for the client. Some of the largest transformations were made in the basement, where unfinished space and lack of light were converted into gloriously lit, cozy, finished spaces. Our first task was to convert the massive basement living room into the new master bedroom for our clients. We removed existing built-ins, created an entirely new walk-in closet, painted the old brick fireplace, installed a new gas unit, added carpet, introduced new lighting, replaced windows, and upgraded every part of the aesthetic appearance. One of the most incredible features of this space is the custom double sliding barn door made by a Denver artisan. This space is truly a retreat for our clients! We also completely transformed the laundry room, back storage room, basement master bathroom, and two bedrooms. This home’s massive scope and ever-evolving challenges were thrilling and exciting to work with, and the result is absolutely amazing. At the end of the day, this home offers a look and feel that the clients love. Above all, though, the clients feel the spirit of their family home and have a welcoming environment for all members of the family to enjoy for years to come.

This space is guided by Color Therapy performed on the client. She wanted to infuse her space with the energy that resonates with her. Teals, purple, emerald greens, butter yellow and oranges abounds in her space. It's both pseudoscience & magic at the same time.

This kitchen detail highlights the bold teal feature wall and streamlined mid-century modern elements that define this Siesta Key home. Open shelving, minimalist cabinetry, and a sleek stainless-steel range create a clean, updated look that blends retro character with modern functionality. iStage Homes styled the space to emphasize simplicity, color, and architectural clarity—features that resonate with Sarasota buyers seeking distinctive, move-in-ready design.

Modern Citi Group recently completed this remarkable condo renovation project in Jersey City, tailored to meet the distinct tastes of a homeowner seeking a space that exudes feminine charm and personalized elegance. This full renovation included a complete overhaul of the look of this home, incorporating the client's very specific desires. Our design team worked closely with the client to ensure the alignment of vision and brought to life the dreams of the client. Every renovation project starts with the planning phase led by the project planners. At the at-home visit, Anna captured a 360 tour of the apartment to get accurate measurements and fast-track the project. As the project progressed, the client was able to keep track of costs and enjoy simulations on her client dashboard. The planning process went smoothly, and the client was very happy with the results. To achieve this feminine look, bespoke light fixtures and carefully selected wallpaper were installed to create a refined ambiance. Going above and beyond, the project also incorporated cutting-edge technology, including a smart toilet and bidet. Every inch of space in the home reflects the client's exact desires and taste. This comprehensive endeavor focused on transforming the residence, encompassing a full-scale renovation of the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The team refinished the floors, ceilings and walls - integrating elements that resonated with the homeowner's vision for a space that harmoniously blends femininity, class, and timeless elegance. The end result is a meticulously crafted home that not only reflects the homeowner's individual style but also stands as a testament to Modern Citi Group's commitment to delivering sophisticated and personalized living spaces.

Sorena's home is a beautiful reflection of her personality, adorned in her vibrant paintings and personal touches that breathed life into every room. When she decided to renovate her kitchen, I had the honor of designing it for her as well as form a connection that I still cherish to this day. Upon my most recent visit to her home to take photos, she greeted me with fresh coffee and pastries, a testament to the warmth of her character. ​ The renovation journey with Sorena was one filled with creativity and collaboration. As the designer, I took charge of curating the finish and lighting selections, while also assisting in the layout of all the cabinetry. One significant transformation was the decision to replace the existing tile with brand new hardwood floors. This change added a natural warmth to the room, complementing the elegance of other elements and providing a graceful continuity with the rest of her home. The kitchen transformed into a culinary masterpiece, blending elegance with functionality. ​ The focal points of the space are the La Cornue Stove imported from France and its coordinating custom range hood. Sorena insisted on these for her dream kitchen, and they indeed became the statement pieces that brought the design together. We complemented these with countertops of honed finish quartzite from Italy, which we both fell in love with as soon as we saw it. Its subtle sheen and luxurious feel added an exquisite touch to the space. ​ No detail was too small in Sorena's kitchen, and every corner had a story. The dreamy breakfast nook, overlooking her koi pond garden, was carefully crafted with a built-in bench adorned with green fabric cushions, providing a cozy spot for morning reflections or intimate conversations. ​ The project, located in West Chester, PA, was a success not only in the transformation of the space but also in creating her dream kitchen. It became an extension of her artistic flair, a place where she could not only host, but express herself. The inclusion of the hardwood floors and updated breakfast nook was a touch that truly finalized the space, giving it a warmth and continuity that resonated with her personality. It was a privilege to help her achieve her vision, and the gratitude in her eyes as she served coffee in her new kitchen is a memory I will always hold dear. Her kitchen wasn't merely a renovation; it was a manifestation of her dreams, executed with love, care, and a shared passion for beauty and design.

Step into the primary suite of my beloved home, The French Chateau. Designing bedrooms is always a very personal endeavor, and designing our own bedroom was no exception. The space must serve as a sanctuary, providing solace at the end of each day, while also uplifting and inspiring us each morning. However, the task always becomes more complex when we are designing a primary suite for two individuals who may not always share the same vision or aesthetic preferences; my husband and I are no different. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ In crafting this space, I desired a room that would bring a smile to our faces whether we were entering or leaving. It needed to encompass beauty that resonated with my love for French, feminine design while also providing comfort for my husband, who has a preference for a richer, more masculine palette. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The design of this primary suite revolves around neutral colors, with a touch of blue—a hue that both of us appreciate—as an accent color. The indulgence of luxurious linens eagerly welcomes us, creating an anticipation for rest after long and bustling days. Throughout the room, you'll notice various cherished family photos adorning our dressers, capturing precious memories. Additionally, a captivating original painting graces a sidewall, showcasing our favorite place, the Jardin des Tuileries at the Louvre in Paris. These personal touches imbue the space with a profound sense of home, rejuvenating our souls and infusing the atmosphere with a unique warmth.

Bayside Home Improvement's latest transformation marries form with function, breathing new life into each room. With an eye for detail, the project features a harmonious blend of modernity and comfort. The kitchen stuns with shaker-style cabinets and quartz countertops, accented by a sleek stainless steel sink and contemporary faucet. Warm wood tones and soft, neutral palettes flow seamlessly into the living spaces, where luxury vinyl tile flooring lays the foundation for elegance. In the bathroom, the crisp, clean lines of gray cabinetry are enhanced by brushed gold fixtures and a glass-enclosed shower, revealing meticulous craftsmanship. This rejuvenated space not only reflects the homeowners' style but also creates a serene retreat that resonates with simplicity and sophistication.

The design of the Penelope Loveseat resonates with those looking for simplicity, elegance and comfort. The light gray linen fabric with 2 throw pillows will refresh any living room and brighten the day of guests and family. The foam filled seats in addition to the smooth surfaces of the double back cushions are designed to provide a premium relaxation experience for all.

The interior design is elegant, fresh and comfortable. It resonates with the upscale but casual lifestyle of the yacht club’s homebuyers. The atmosphere is light and airy to compliment the breezy days and beautiful views of the Bay. The interior design features a cosmopolitan style with elegant furnishings, fabrics that are light in tone and texture, and an infusion of unexpected color. Beasley & Henley’s design juxtaposes silver, gold and glass accents with textural and natural pieces, and a blend of modern art, photography and whimsical landscapes. Additional design features in the model include elegant and interesting lighting, large format tile flooring, upholstered headboards with nailhead trim and tufted accents, and sumptuous bed-like lounge chairs for the loggia. Casa Bahia’s penthouse residences start from the $700,000s.

Nestled within the bustling heart of Manhattan's Seaport District, my latest project unfolded in the form of a kid's bedroom, reflecting both a playful spirit and thoughtful practicality. The client's love for travel and a shared vision for a space that grows with their child guided the creative process, transforming the room into a haven of warmth, comfort, and character. ​ The journey began with the selection of a twin-size daybed in off-white, a transitional piece that resonates with the room's flexibility. Perfect for lounging or sleepovers, this piece stands ready to evolve into a bed when the time is right. The side table, equipped with a handy charging port, offers the dual function of storage now and a nightstand later, reflecting the room's readiness to adapt to its occupant's changing needs. ​ Adding to the room's multifunctionality, the chosen console table can either grace the space in simplicity or rotate into an L-shaped desk. From craft time to study hours, it's a piece that speaks to the creativity and growth of the child. Paired with a velvet-upholstered chair, a fashionable yet unobtrusive addition, it brings a contrasting pop of color to balance the room's light palette. ​ The leather lounge chair and globe pouf introduce a casual feel, enhancing the room's welcoming ambiance. Inspired by the family's months-long travel experience, the global-themed pouf stands as a tangible reminder of adventures shared and the world waiting to be explored. ​ With the final touch of a well-positioned bookcase at the foot of the daybed sofa, organization and accessibility became part of the room's charm. The careful addition of lighting with gold, white, and rattan elements, along with a uniquely textured blue rug, brings the design together in a harmonious blend of style and personality. ​ This project, situated in one of New York's most vibrant neighborhoods, was more than just a room transformation; it was a labor of love. Building a space that can effortlessly transition with the child's growth, filled with memories and inspiration from family experiences, was a challenge embraced with enthusiasm. Their child's bedroom is not merely a room; it's a carefully curated environment where dreams take flight, comfort reigns, and the future holds endless possibilities.

Explore the elegance of this Architectural Digest-featured bathroom in a Nashville home, thoughtfully designed by award-winning designers Lauren Bradshaw and Sarah Sherman Samuel. Centered around the Ascension line freestanding natural copper clawfoot bathtub from Re's Parish Collection, inspired by the picturesque landscapes of Louisiana, this bathroom is a testament to luxury and design excellence. The bathtub is paired with high-end Delta Victorian brass tub fixtures, enhancing its allure. Adjacent to the tub, the space features a sophisticated Kingston brass vanity sink atop a Mason porcelain console, contributing to the room's refined contemporary aesthetic. Enhancing the functionality and style, custom recessed cabinetry is seamlessly integrated into the walls, providing streamlined storage solutions without compromising the sleek design. The flooring and baseboards are adorned with custom sheet tiles from Fire Clay Tile, specifically the Akoya and Halite designs, which bring an artisanal and eco-conscious touch to the space. These tiles not only add a layer of luxury but also resonate with the room's modern and artistic vibe. The walls and ceiling boast a unique faux finish paint application, complementing the custom tile work and adding depth to the room's overall ambiance. This bathroom renovation showcases the harmonious blend of modern luxury and sustainable design, making it a highlight of Nashville's residential architecture and a distinguished project on Houzz. Photography: Joseph Bradshaw

THE SETUP Upon moving to Glen Ellyn, the homeowners were eager to infuse their new residence with a style that resonated with their modern aesthetic sensibilities. The primary bathroom, while spacious and structurally impressive with its dramatic high ceilings, presented a dated, overly traditional appearance that clashed with their vision. Design objectives: Transform the space into a serene, modern spa-like sanctuary. Integrate a palette of deep, earthy tones to create a rich, enveloping ambiance. Employ a blend of organic and natural textures to foster a connection with nature. THE REMODEL Design challenges: Take full advantage of the vaulted ceiling Source unique marble that is more grounding than fanciful Design minimal, modern cabinetry with a natural, organic finish Offer a unique lighting plan to create a sexy, Zen vibe Design solutions: To highlight the vaulted ceiling, we extended the shower tile to the ceiling and added a skylight to bathe the area in natural light. Sourced unique marble with raw, chiseled edges that provide a tactile, earthy element. Our custom-designed cabinetry in a minimal, modern style features a natural finish, complementing the organic theme. A truly creative layered lighting strategy dials in the perfect Zen-like atmosphere. The wavy protruding wall tile lights triggered our inspiration but came with an unintended harsh direct-light effect so we sourced a solution: bespoke diffusers measured and cut for the top and bottom of each tile light gap. THE RENEWED SPACE The homeowners dreamed of a tranquil, luxurious retreat that embraced natural materials and a captivating color scheme. Our collaborative effort brought this vision to life, creating a bathroom that not only meets the clients’ functional needs but also serves as a daily sanctuary. The carefully chosen materials and lighting design enable the space to shift its character with the changing light of day. “Trust the process and it will all come together,” the home owners shared. “Sometimes we just stand here and think, ‘Wow, this is lovely!'”

This homeowner’s story resonates with many who are considering aging in place. She loved her Normandy Park home but found that her bathroom no longer met her needs. While soaking in her jacuzzi tub had been a cherished routine, the high ledge made it increasingly difficult—and unsafe—to use. After experiencing a few falls, she knew it was time for a change. Initially, she contacted a national company specializing in ADA-compliant tubs, but they couldn’t retrofit her space. That’s when she called Better Builders. Together, we transformed her bathroom into a safe, functional, and beautifully designed retreat where she could relax without worry. By thoughtfully integrating accessible features without compromising aesthetics, we gave this homeowner a bathroom that meets her current needs and supports her ability to live independently for years to come.

Modern Citi Group recently completed this remarkable condo renovation project in Jersey City, tailored to meet the distinct tastes of a homeowner seeking a space that exudes feminine charm and personalized elegance. This full renovation included a complete overhaul of the look of this home, incorporating the client's very specific desires. Our design team worked closely with the client to ensure the alignment of vision and brought to life the dreams of the client. Every renovation project starts with the planning phase led by the project planners. At the at-home visit, Anna captured a 360 tour of the apartment to get accurate measurements and fast-track the project. As the project progressed, the client was able to keep track of costs and enjoy simulations on her client dashboard. The planning process went smoothly, and the client was very happy with the results. To achieve this feminine look, bespoke light fixtures and carefully selected wallpaper were installed to create a refined ambiance. Going above and beyond, the project also incorporated cutting-edge technology, including a smart toilet and bidet. Every inch of space in the home reflects the client's exact desires and taste. This comprehensive endeavor focused on transforming the residence, encompassing a full-scale renovation of the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The team refinished the floors, ceilings and walls - integrating elements that resonated with the homeowner's vision for a space that harmoniously blends femininity, class, and timeless elegance. The end result is a meticulously crafted home that not only reflects the homeowner's individual style but also stands as a testament to Modern Citi Group's commitment to delivering sophisticated and personalized living spaces.

THE SETUP Upon moving to Glen Ellyn, the homeowners were eager to infuse their new residence with a style that resonated with their modern aesthetic sensibilities. The primary bathroom, while spacious and structurally impressive with its dramatic high ceilings, presented a dated, overly traditional appearance that clashed with their vision. Design objectives: Transform the space into a serene, modern spa-like sanctuary. Integrate a palette of deep, earthy tones to create a rich, enveloping ambiance. Employ a blend of organic and natural textures to foster a connection with nature. THE REMODEL Design challenges: Take full advantage of the vaulted ceiling Source unique marble that is more grounding than fanciful Design minimal, modern cabinetry with a natural, organic finish Offer a unique lighting plan to create a sexy, Zen vibe Design solutions: To highlight the vaulted ceiling, we extended the shower tile to the ceiling and added a skylight to bathe the area in natural light. Sourced unique marble with raw, chiseled edges that provide a tactile, earthy element. Our custom-designed cabinetry in a minimal, modern style features a natural finish, complementing the organic theme. A truly creative layered lighting strategy dials in the perfect Zen-like atmosphere. The wavy protruding wall tile lights triggered our inspiration but came with an unintended harsh direct-light effect so we sourced a solution: bespoke diffusers measured and cut for the top and bottom of each tile light gap. THE RENEWED SPACE The homeowners dreamed of a tranquil, luxurious retreat that embraced natural materials and a captivating color scheme. Our collaborative effort brought this vision to life, creating a bathroom that not only meets the clients’ functional needs but also serves as a daily sanctuary. The carefully chosen materials and lighting design enable the space to shift its character with the changing light of day. “Trust the process and it will all come together,” the home owners shared. “Sometimes we just stand here and think, ‘Wow, this is lovely!'”

When designing a space, the color palette plays a pivotal role. By carefully considering these elements, you can craft a space that not only meets functional requirements but also embodies the desired aesthetic and promotes comfort. Project Burke exemplifies this approach, as we seamlessly integrate various colors to create a cohesive and inviting environment. Our goal is to deliver a space that resonates with our clients and exceeds their expectations, providing them with a haven they’ll truly cherish.

When designing a space, the color palette plays a pivotal role. By carefully considering these elements, you can craft a space that not only meets functional requirements but also embodies the desired aesthetic and promotes comfort. Project Burke exemplifies this approach, as we seamlessly integrate various colors to create a cohesive and inviting environment. Our goal is to deliver a space that resonates with our clients and exceeds their expectations, providing them with a haven they’ll truly cherish.

The project also reflects a broader evolution unfolding across global retail. High-end environments are shifting from curated showcases to immersive interiors that mirror how clients truly live. Many are internationally minded, often maintaining multiple residences. They are accustomed to thoughtful design across cities and seasons. What resonates now is sophistication balanced with ease.