After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

There is always an easy way out. A simple, uninteresting solution that neither challenges nor engages the mind or the soul. The 50s rambler is a simple structure that lacks character and charm. Its greatest contribution to architecture was the single floor living concept. We came to this project because the homeowners believed their home had the potential to be something more and had invested their time and creativity into developing ideas for what it could become. We embraced the opportunity to collaborate with the homeowner to create a home that was unique, thoughtful, customized for their use, and cared for. The curved exterior shell of this addition wraps around to accommodate a screen porch under a lifted peak. Inside, the new kitchen follows the curve with custom cabinets and honed granite creating a dynamite space for a chef. Shade tree, bamboo and honed slate flooring weave the living room, dining room, bathroom and kitchen together. Walls jog and jump with color and dimension. One of the major challenges was to ensure that the space could accommodate large family gatherings of 12 – 16 people yet still feel intimate and comfortable for two people when guests were not present. As you move through the home you will notice that none of the spaces feel cavernous or restrictive. Careful attention was paid to mapping out the space to create areas that were cozy and appropriate while taking traffic patterns into consideration. The dining room entrances are staggered which creates the illusion of two separate spaces. The warm red halogen lights further encourage a sense of scale. One can easily extend the dining room table to accommodate a large crowd without causing guests to feel uncomfortable or confined. The use of color is an often noted feature in our projects. Our philosophy is that the selection of color for the walls is as important as the selection of all the other materials. Color influences everything we do and gives us direction for how to feel, where to go, where to stop, and how to interact. It is the binding component between all the elements in a design. It bends, bounces, twists, manipulates light and the eye, and is required to fully develop and design a space. This project was an exciting and rewarding challenge, and we are grateful to the homeowners for asking us to be a part of it and to opening up their home to the public. We hope that you will enjoy your time visiting this remarkably transformed home. highlights Re-use of existing housing stock Icynene insulation Super-insulated ceilings Remnant granite countertops Energy Star windows Shade tree floors Bamboo floors Hardishingle siding Halogen lights Dimmers and separated task lighting Energy efficient Panasonic fans Locally manufactured cabinets FSC certified millwork Energy Star appliances Dual flush toilet

Brock Design Group created a calming retreat for these clients by choosing structured but comfortable furnishings for the entire home paired with custom dining and coffee tables, back patio furnishings, paint and accessories. This rustic yet traditional feel brings the home into a comfortable space. Photos by Blackstone Edge

Wine storage and display was at the top of the priority list for this client. THE SETUP Our journey began with a familiar face — Alicia had previously transformed the client’s mother’s home, establishing a trusted relationship that naturally led to this personal project. The client desired a kitchen that truly reflected her own style while facilitating seamless entertaining. Design Vision: The original kitchen, segregated from the dining area by a wall, hindered the flow of interaction and space. Our client envisioned a unified area where she could engage with guests in both the kitchen and dining room simultaneously. Moreover, the space lacked a central island, relying instead on a floorplan anchored by cabinetry in a u-shaped layout. Design Objectives: Open up the space for an airy design conducive to entertaining large gatherings Modernize the kitchen to be both stylish and functional Integrate the design with the home’s new black-framed windows and doors Relocate the cooktop to a central position to enhance usability and interaction Design Challenges: Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room would necessitate the rerouting of existing HVAC ductwork that services the upper floor Limited pantry space in the existing kitchen The existing u-shaped layout of the kitchen restricted functionality and storage options Insufficient space for wine storage The client desired a raised-furniture look for the island, but without showing a new downdraft vent THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: We added a second HVAC unit to the upper floor and rerouted the existing ductwork in that wall Created tall pantry pullouts on either side of the fridge to maximize dry goods storage Designed a long island to facilitate cooking stations and dining moments Created a stylish open display cabinet for wine Engineered a dual-design island with a footed floating aesthetic on one side, and a full floor reach on the other to conceal the new downdraft ventilation. Paired with the newly opened adjacent dining room featuring a wet bar, the kitchen has become a stylish and highly functional space for cooking and entertaining. Following a large baby shower hosted by the client (which seamlessly accommodated an 80-person gathering!), it is clear that the new design not only meets but exceeds the needs for hosting and everyday living. This project was a harmonious blend of the client’s vision and Alicia’s innovative design solutions, resulting in a kitchen that truly embodies personalized elegance and functionality.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

Located in the Sky Lofts building in Tribeca (once home to the most expensive apartment sale in NYC), our clients were ready to renovate and modernize their centerpiece kitchen. Due to the unique nature of loft renovations (high ceilings, columns, creative and skillful lighting applications, among other factors), Gallery’s expertise in loft spaces was vital to our clients. In addition to the loft particularities, it’s important in a kitchen of this size to ensure that all the elements have been laid out with purpose from a functional perspective and a design perspective. CENTERPIECE KITCHEN Color was an important design element in this kitchen. This is evident in the striking blues and grays of the marble countertops and backsplash, as well as the dark navy hue of the built-in cabinets. White lower cabinets create two-tone contrast, while glass cabinets and a long wood open shelf make the most of the available height. The built-in cabinets also include built-in appliances: an espresso maker, coffee machine, two side-by-side wine fridges, and even an integrated refrigerator paneled to match the cabinetry for an essentially seamless look. The cabinets are all push-to-open, eliminating knobs to complete the overall sleek, contemporary style. The marble backsplash is also book-matched, meaning the slabs of stone have been cut and polished to match each other, creating a mirroring effect that further contributes to the cohesive, contemporary aesthetic of this apartment. BUILDING CONSIDERATIONS Functional factors are another vital component to New York City apartment building renovations. In this particular project, we had to consider how to get large slabs of stone into the loft without having to cut them up. When working with slabs, and especially when the design is as sleek and contemporary as this one, it’s vital to eliminate seams as much as possible. Elevators and stairs are often not large enough to handle large slabs of stone, which means there are only two other options: cutting the stone and putting it back together on site (but this will create a seam, so it’s not always an option) or using a crane to bring it in through a window. Higher-end buildings tend to have more restrictions and management companies with stricter renovation guidelines – with good reason. A good relationship with the super and staff of the building is absolutely essential; effective communication with everyone involved will result in an ideal outcome for all parties. ARTFUL LOGISTICS Seemingly minor elements such as apartment protections are also just as crucial. While every renovation will require protections in hallways, common spaces, zip walls, and perhaps the floors, those protections are doubled when renovating in an apartment that’s currently occupied. In the case of this particular client, who owned a great deal of valuable artwork in addition to their furniture and other belongings, Gallery exacted their own form of art when putting the protections in place and maneuvering around them with skill. SOME HIGHLIGHTS - Unique marble slabs (Azul Macauba quartzite and Calacatta Diamond quartzite) for the countertops and backsplash - Book-matched backsplash - Gaggenau appliances - Glass cabinets with built-in lighting - Custom millwork for the cabinets

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

Words cannot describe the level of transformation this beautiful 60’s ranch has undergone. The home was blessed with a ton of natural light, however the sectioned rooms made for large awkward spaces without much functionality. By removing the dividing walls and reworking a few key functioning walls, this home is ready to entertain friends and family for all occasions. The large island has dual ovens for serious bake-off competitions accompanied with an inset induction cooktop equipped with a pop-up ventilation system. Plenty of storage surrounds the cooking stations providing large countertop space and seating nook for two. The beautiful natural quartzite is a show stopper throughout with it’s honed finish and serene blue/green hue providing a touch of color. Mother-of-Pearl backsplash tiles compliment the quartzite countertops and soft linen cabinets. The level of functionality has been elevated by moving the washer & dryer to a newly created closet situated behind the refrigerator and keeps hidden by a ceiling mounted barn-door. The new laundry room and storage closet opposite provide a functional solution for maintaining easy access to both areas without door swings restricting the path to the family room. Full height pantry cabinet make up the rest of the wall providing plenty of storage space and a natural division between casual dining to formal dining. Built-in cabinetry with glass doors provides the opportunity to showcase family dishes and heirlooms accented with in-cabinet lighting. With the wall partitions removed, the dining room easily flows into the rest of the home while maintaining its special moment. A large peninsula divides the kitchen space from the seating room providing plentiful storage including countertop cabinets for hidden storage, a charging nook, and a custom doggy station for the beloved dog with an elevated bowl deck and shallow drawer for leashes and treats! Beautiful large format tiles with a touch of modern flair bring all these spaces together providing a texture and color unlike any other with spots of iridescence, brushed concrete, and hues of blue and green. The original master bath and closet was divided into two parts separated by a hallway and door leading to the outside. This created an itty-bitty bathroom and plenty of untapped floor space with potential! By removing the interior walls and bringing the new bathroom space into the bedroom, we created a functional bathroom and walk-in closet space. By reconfiguration the bathroom layout to accommodate a walk-in shower and dual vanity, we took advantage of every square inch and made it functional and beautiful! A pocket door leads into the bathroom suite and a large full-length mirror on a mosaic accent wall greets you upon entering. To the left is a pocket door leading into the walk-in closet, and to the right is the new master bath. A natural marble floor mosaic in a basket weave pattern is warm to the touch thanks to the heating system underneath. Large format white wall tiles with glass mosaic accent in the shower and continues as a wainscot throughout the bathroom providing a modern touch and compliment the classic marble floor. A crisp white double vanity furniture piece completes the space. The journey of the Yosemite project is one we will never forget. Not only were we given the opportunity to transform this beautiful home into a more functional and beautiful space, we were blessed with such amazing clients who were endlessly appreciative of TVL – and for that we are grateful!

Transitional space for a young active family with children. This kitchen presented a design challenge due to long, narrow space which was solved with a very practical peninsula layout with center work island, which connects frig, range and sink. Two tone cabinetry and granite add to visual interest, while utilitarian track lights and bar stools add a urban feel. Existing soffits were camouflaged with crown molding and painted to match cabinets, helping to hold down construction costs. photos by Tommie Milacci Photograpy

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

THE SETUP Our journey began with a familiar face — Alicia had previously transformed the client’s mother’s home, establishing a trusted relationship that naturally led to this personal project. The client desired a kitchen that truly reflected her own style while facilitating seamless entertaining. Design Vision: The original kitchen, segregated from the dining area by a wall, hindered the flow of interaction and space. Our client envisioned a unified area where she could engage with guests in both the kitchen and dining room simultaneously. Moreover, the space lacked a central island, relying instead on a floorplan anchored by cabinetry in a u-shaped layout. Design Objectives: Open up the space for an airy design conducive to entertaining large gatherings Modernize the kitchen to be both stylish and functional Integrate the design with the home’s new black-framed windows and doors Relocate the cooktop to a central position to enhance usability and interaction Design Challenges: Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room would necessitate the rerouting of existing HVAC ductwork that services the upper floor Limited pantry space in the existing kitchen The existing u-shaped layout of the kitchen restricted functionality and storage options Insufficient space for wine storage The client desired a raised-furniture look for the island, but without showing a new downdraft vent THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: We added a second HVAC unit to the upper floor and rerouted the existing ductwork in that wall Created tall pantry pullouts on either side of the fridge to maximize dry goods storage Designed a long island to facilitate cooking stations and dining moments Created a stylish open display cabinet for wine Engineered a dual-design island with a footed floating aesthetic on one side, and a full floor reach on the other to conceal the new downdraft ventilation. Paired with the newly opened adjacent dining room featuring a wet bar, the kitchen has become a stylish and highly functional space for cooking and entertaining. Following a large baby shower hosted by the client (which seamlessly accommodated an 80-person gathering!), it is clear that the new design not only meets but exceeds the needs for hosting and everyday living. This project was a harmonious blend of the client’s vision and Alicia’s innovative design solutions, resulting in a kitchen that truly embodies personalized elegance and functionality.

THE SETUP Our journey began with a familiar face — Alicia had previously transformed the client’s mother’s home, establishing a trusted relationship that naturally led to this personal project. The client desired a kitchen that truly reflected her own style while facilitating seamless entertaining. Design Vision: The original kitchen, segregated from the dining area by a wall, hindered the flow of interaction and space. Our client envisioned a unified area where she could engage with guests in both the kitchen and dining room simultaneously. Moreover, the space lacked a central island, relying instead on a floorplan anchored by cabinetry in a u-shaped layout. Design Objectives: Open up the space for an airy design conducive to entertaining large gatherings Modernize the kitchen to be both stylish and functional Integrate the design with the home’s new black-framed windows and doors Relocate the cooktop to a central position to enhance usability and interaction Design Challenges: Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room would necessitate the rerouting of existing HVAC ductwork that services the upper floor Limited pantry space in the existing kitchen The existing u-shaped layout of the kitchen restricted functionality and storage options Insufficient space for wine storage The client desired a raised-furniture look for the island, but without showing a new downdraft vent THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: We added a second HVAC unit to the upper floor and rerouted the existing ductwork in that wall Created tall pantry pullouts on either side of the fridge to maximize dry goods storage Designed a long island to facilitate cooking stations and dining moments Created a stylish open display cabinet for wine Engineered a dual-design island with a footed floating aesthetic on one side, and a full floor reach on the other to conceal the new downdraft ventilation. Paired with the newly opened adjacent dining room featuring a wet bar, the kitchen has become a stylish and highly functional space for cooking and entertaining. Following a large baby shower hosted by the client (which seamlessly accommodated an 80-person gathering!), it is clear that the new design not only meets but exceeds the needs for hosting and everyday living. This project was a harmonious blend of the client’s vision and Alicia’s innovative design solutions, resulting in a kitchen that truly embodies personalized elegance and functionality.

THE SETUP Our journey began with a familiar face — Alicia had previously transformed the client’s mother’s home, establishing a trusted relationship that naturally led to this personal project. The client desired a kitchen that truly reflected her own style while facilitating seamless entertaining. Design Vision: The original kitchen, segregated from the dining area by a wall, hindered the flow of interaction and space. Our client envisioned a unified area where she could engage with guests in both the kitchen and dining room simultaneously. Moreover, the space lacked a central island, relying instead on a floorplan anchored by cabinetry in a u-shaped layout. Design Objectives: Open up the space for an airy design conducive to entertaining large gatherings Modernize the kitchen to be both stylish and functional Integrate the design with the home’s new black-framed windows and doors Relocate the cooktop to a central position to enhance usability and interaction Design Challenges: Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room would necessitate the rerouting of existing HVAC ductwork that services the upper floor Limited pantry space in the existing kitchen The existing u-shaped layout of the kitchen restricted functionality and storage options Insufficient space for wine storage The client desired a raised-furniture look for the island, but without showing a new downdraft vent THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: We added a second HVAC unit to the upper floor and rerouted the existing ductwork in that wall Created tall pantry pullouts on either side of the fridge to maximize dry goods storage Designed a long island to facilitate cooking stations and dining moments Created a stylish open display cabinet for wine Engineered a dual-design island with a footed floating aesthetic on one side, and a full floor reach on the other to conceal the new downdraft ventilation. Paired with the newly opened adjacent dining room featuring a wet bar, the kitchen has become a stylish and highly functional space for cooking and entertaining. Following a large baby shower hosted by the client (which seamlessly accommodated an 80-person gathering!), it is clear that the new design not only meets but exceeds the needs for hosting and everyday living. This project was a harmonious blend of the client’s vision and Alicia’s innovative design solutions, resulting in a kitchen that truly embodies personalized elegance and functionality.

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

THE SETUP Our journey began with a familiar face — Alicia had previously transformed the client’s mother’s home, establishing a trusted relationship that naturally led to this personal project. The client desired a kitchen that truly reflected her own style while facilitating seamless entertaining. Design Vision: The original kitchen, segregated from the dining area by a wall, hindered the flow of interaction and space. Our client envisioned a unified area where she could engage with guests in both the kitchen and dining room simultaneously. Moreover, the space lacked a central island, relying instead on a floorplan anchored by cabinetry in a u-shaped layout. Design Objectives: Open up the space for an airy design conducive to entertaining large gatherings Modernize the kitchen to be both stylish and functional Integrate the design with the home’s new black-framed windows and doors Relocate the cooktop to a central position to enhance usability and interaction Design Challenges: Removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room would necessitate the rerouting of existing HVAC ductwork that services the upper floor Limited pantry space in the existing kitchen The existing u-shaped layout of the kitchen restricted functionality and storage options Insufficient space for wine storage The client desired a raised-furniture look for the island, but without showing a new downdraft vent THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: We added a second HVAC unit to the upper floor and rerouted the existing ductwork in that wall Created tall pantry pullouts on either side of the fridge to maximize dry goods storage Designed a long island to facilitate cooking stations and dining moments Created a stylish open display cabinet for wine Engineered a dual-design island with a footed floating aesthetic on one side, and a full floor reach on the other to conceal the new downdraft ventilation. Paired with the newly opened adjacent dining room featuring a wet bar, the kitchen has become a stylish and highly functional space for cooking and entertaining. Following a large baby shower hosted by the client (which seamlessly accommodated an 80-person gathering!), it is clear that the new design not only meets but exceeds the needs for hosting and everyday living. This project was a harmonious blend of the client’s vision and Alicia’s innovative design solutions, resulting in a kitchen that truly embodies personalized elegance and functionality.

These are returning clients of Sosna, who purchased a condo built in 2009 to be their forever home to enjoy now that they are retired . Although the area and views are beautiful, the condo felt small, dark, and dated. The layout was also not functional, and had a lot of wasted space. They wanted the space to fit their lifestyle and feel like it was their own. Having worked with Sosna previously, they knew they could put their full trust in Sosna. During the renovation, they were able to visit their cottage and relax, knowing their home was in good hands. Their only worry was that the condominium rules would restrict or delay the job. These worries were laid to rest, as Sosna developed a respectful and trusting relationship with the building management during construction. In the Kitchen and eating area, we kept the existing footprint, but installed plenty of new cabinetry to provide much more functional storage, ensuring every square inch of the space was used to its full potential as a useful space. A white marble countertop and lower cabinetry made the space feel bright and open. In the Master Bathroom, we re-worked the layout to allow for a larger, more functional and luxurious shower with a built in seat and nooks. During the design phase, we noticed that our clients had been hang drying clothing using a small rack in the bathtub. New hanging rods were installed above a new bathtub to provide a more functional solution for hang drying clothing that did not require having to move drying racks in and out of the space when needed. Beautiful patterned floor tiles were accented as well in the shower nooks to tie the bright new space together. The Guest Bathroom was dark and dated. We were able to give it a welcoming facelift, giving it a more open and airy feel and a pop of colour in the shower. Finally, we replaced the previously mismatched laminate flooring throughout the home with a darker vinyl flooring, all flowing in the same direction to provide a seamless and cohesive flow throughout the home, not to mention easy maintenance! In the end, our clients were delighted with the care and quality of work put into their home, as well as the ease of the process from design to completion. If you’re ready to make your forever home feel like it’s been made just for you, contact us to get started! We’re the Renovator You Can Count On! Sosna Inc 7250 Keele Street, Unit 372 Vaughan, ON L4K 1Z8 416-888-7366 (RENO) Website: sosna.ca Email: contact@sosna.ca

After living in this home for a decade, Crystal Lake residents Ken & Bonnie needed an update to their tired original kitchen to meet the needs of their busy family. Together with the expertise of designer Scott Christensen at Advance Design Studio they planned to completely reconfigure the entire space. They began by removing the restrictive peninsula and replaced it with a generous island designed to house an expansive farmhouse sink, convenient pull out trash receptacles, and a hidden dishwasher. Now there was ample room to add island seating to accommodate family gatherings, or for just “hanging out” with teenagers. A dramatic new focal point was created with the design of an elegant range area featuring a beautiful custom wood mantle hood detailed with crushed glass handmade tile. Hidden storage houses every spice imaginable right at the cook’s fingertips. Double-stacked glass cabinetry emphasizes the impressive height of the room that was a wonderful architectural element that previously went unnoticed in the original kitchen. The entire kitchen and breakfast nook was opened up to the 2 story family room by integrating enlarged arched openings. An outdated desk area was transformed into a beautiful breakfront bar with beverage refrigeration, glass display cabinets and plenty of new storage for entertainment pieces. An espresso nook was tucked neatly between tall cabinetry, and an old fashioned closet with shelves was converted into an efficient chef’s dream of organized custom pull out pantries. “I am the leader of the Scott Christensen fan club,” says Bonnie. “With my busy family and a full time career, Scott made the process of designing this space so easy for me. He didn’t overwhelm me, but carefully determined what I liked and offered me two thoughtful solutions for just about everything - complete with his expert opinion that I really respected.” Bright white Jay Rambo custom made maple cabinets are accented by Cambria quartz counter tops and simple subway tiles. Original hardwood floors were refinished and stained a darker shade, and stair risers and balusters were painted white to coordinate with the smart wainscot details throughout the first floor. The end effect is a cohesive first floor that flows together with grace and a level of elegance perfectly suitable for this stately Crystal Lake home. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak