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This bathroom with neutral tone tile and creamy white cabinetry is warm and welcoming. Granite vanity tops and accent mosaic tiles in the shower add a pop of texture and style. The glass sliding door maximizes the space and makes the bathroom appear open and larger.

The natural right of each youngster to a quality instruction was initially recognized in 1948 in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Embraced by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) states that: everybody has the privilege to training and that it ought to be free in any event at the essential level. Not just does everybody have the privilege to a free and mandatory essential instruction, that training ought to concentrate on full human advancement, fortify admiration for human rights, and advance comprehension, resistance and companionship (UDHR Article 26).
The 1960, UNESCO Convention Against Discrimination in Education fortifies the privilege to a free and obligatory quality essential trainings laid out in the 1948 UDHR, and further orders that segregation in instruction is an infringement of human rights. It sets out that segregation in instruction incorporates any qualification, rejection, restriction or inclination that depends on race, shading, sex, dialect, religion, political or other feeling, national or social birthplace, monetary condition or conception.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child of 1989 further characterized youngsters' entitlement to training. The Millennium Development Goals and other worldwide traditions have subsequent to fortified instruction as a widespread right to be ensured to ALL youngsters.
Rights-based methodology
Getting to and accepting a quality training is an all inclusive human right. Instruct A Child's work is established in the privilege of ALL CHILDREN around the globe to get to a quality training that regards and elevates their entitlement to pride and full improvement.
There are three imperative parts of instruction as a human right:
Investment in quality instruction in itself;
The act of human rights in training; and
Training as a privilege that encourages the satisfaction of different rights.
Our work depends on various global instruments that recognize instruction as a human right. A few of these global instruments show the fancied nature, or nature of this training. When we take a gander at these instruments together and translate them we go a long ways past single articles to a web of responsibilities that identifies with the profundity and expansiveness of how to start to comprehend instructive quality.
Elucidation of the different instruments as to quality training must be inserted inside of the general current nearby and world settings and desires of instruction. That is, training must be set and comprehended as far as the bigger setting. A quality training must reflect learning in connection to the learner as an individual, a family and group part, and a portion of a world society.
A quality instruction comprehends the past, is significant to the present, and has a perspective to what's to come. Quality training identifies with learning building and the handy utilization of all types of information by special people who capacity both freely and in connection to others. A quality instruction mirrors the dynamic way of society and dialects, the estimation of the person in connection to the bigger setting, and the significance of living in a way that advances equity in the present and encourages an economical future.
About the Author: She is a superb essayist. Her major is «Phycology». She examines the issues of kids' advanceme at courseworkservice.com

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
Find the right local pro for your project

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.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in
downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most
urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home
was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into
a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners
also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just
not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining
room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from
the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was
dragged in from wet swimmers.
To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the
larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that
fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about.
We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from
which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them.
Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important
to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception
of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local
companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom
stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash
and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had
previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home-
owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them.
We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

Here shown is the walnut interior of the glass cabinets in the kitchen.
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.

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in
downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most
urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home
was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into
a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners
also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just
not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining
room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from
the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was
dragged in from wet swimmers.
To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the
larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that
fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about.
We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from
which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them.
Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important
to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception
of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local
companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom
stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash
and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had
previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home-
owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them.
We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

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

The major kitchen renovation of this old country farmhouse was a task of love, one that had been planned for many years by these Barrington seasoned homeowners. After interviewing no less than five companies, the homeowners chose the design team at Advance Design Studio to make the transformation they had long planned for.
“They had an understanding of the right design for the space almost from the instant they walked in the room”, says Sharon Scott of the design team of Nicole Ryan at Todd Jurs at Advance Design Studio. “They were the only designers who laid out ideas in the first meeting at the house that we really loved”, she says. “It was obvious that they understood the house, and understood us - and from then on the decision to hire them literally made itself”.
The original kitchen had a dividing “wall” of cabinetry…that made the rather large space seem very small, and cut off the kitchen from the eating area that has a beautiful garden view completely hidden from the main kitchen. Circulation was poor, leaving family members on top of one another when entertaining family and friends.
The new kitchen design nearly doubles the kitchen size within the original space; opening it up completely and enjoying an expansive island containing a new Kohler Whitehaven Smart Divide farm sink, a dishwasher, and pull out double trash receptacle. The great new gathering space accommodates four pull out stools beckoning grandchildren and friends alike. Removing the range from the island and relocating it to create a dramatic “feature” wall, completely out of the way of guests; it is now crowned with a beautiful completely customized wood hood designed to ventilate much more efficiently than the original island range containing a limited downdraft system.
The much more efficient use of the space after removing a pantry closet made way for a fully functional “tall wall” housing a double oven and refrigerator, out of the way of guests. Removing the restrictive cabinetry wall now allowed for an expansive floor to ceiling pantry cabinet with full extension pull out shelving, and an elegant display area complete with a beautiful furniture detailed buffet.
Fitting perfectly into the farmhouse charm of the old estate, Medallion Silver Lancaster cabinetry was chosen in a soft white Maple Divinity paint finish lining the perimeter. The stunning island hints to this old home’s past with Medallion Gold’s Maple Devonshire style graced with a Carriage Black Heirloom painted finish. The rubbed off black paint finish reveals the soft wood tones beneath, mimicking furniture you’d see in your grandmother’s home that has lovingly been polished for years to reveal a soft, subtly rubbed-off sheen.
Counter tops reverse contrast with perimeter tops of black “Raven” granite possessing a subtle honed finish, and a shift to Quartz Difinity Viareggio - resembling white Carrera marble on the island. A simple herringbone detail completes the decorative range wall, and subtle porcelain subway tiles grace the backsplash throughout.
The design is finished off with crisp Thermador and Bosch stainless steel appliances, and bright brushed cup pull and handle combination hardware. A pull down Kohler Bellaria faucet makes cleanup a breeze, and soft under-cabinet LED lighting throughout makes every work surface shine softly, and highlights the cabinetry display area with grace.
One special detail was created to make the dramatic ceiling transition to a vaulted area above the breakfast nook extra special. A tongue and groove solid wood ceiling was hung above, and a subtle greenish-grey distressed paint finish was hand developed on site by the talented crew, complementing the new kitchen with a completely unique surface that appears as if it’s been there for many, many years. It’s just one standout feature in the amazing new space that is sure to be in every conversation as newcomers enjoy the newest best hangout in this old home renewed!
After 30 years of renovating homes, this now content homeowner sips a cup of tea enjoying her new garden view, and reminisces projects of past – and lastly reports their experience with Advance Design Studio culminating with their amazing new kitchen to be the most enjoyable and satisfying home experience yet.
Designer: Nicole Ryan
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

These engaging homeowners are fortuitous enough to reside in a three level townhouse on a quiet street in
downtown Minneapolis. This couple loves to entertain and host family holidays. Spaces are tight in most
urban areas. This townhome is no exception. There was nothing horribly wrong with the way the home
was laid out, it just did not serve the needs of the family. The kitchen was tucked up front and forced into
a small space, making it difficult for multiple people to be in the space at the same time. The homeowners
also wished to upgrade to professional appliances. Due to size and mechanical code restrictions, this was just
not possible in the existing space. The back of the townhome had a large living room and good sized dining
room. Off this space is a shaded deck and swimming pool, which are used all the time. Traffic always ran from
the outdoor entertaining space directly to the kitchen in the front. Not only was this inconvenient, a mess was
dragged in from wet swimmers.
To alleviate these challenges, we moved the kitchen from the smaller space at the front of the home to the
larger space the under utilized living room furniture occupied. This allowed us to curate a large kitchen that
fits all their needs, wants, and aesthetic desires. Now there is plenty of room to cook, relax, and bustle about.
We also added a wet bar next to the patio door in the dining room. Right by the door is a beverage cooler from
which guests may grab beverages and snacks without dragging the outside in with them.
Being the homeowners and designer are all members of the creative community in the Twin Cities, it was important
to incorporate the work of local artists. This kitchen is fully curated with all Minnesota products (with the exception
of the appliances, which are manufactured in Wisconsin). The cabinets and countertops are from larger local
companies, while all the other features are hand made by near by artists. These artisan products include a custom
stainless steel range hood, black powder coated table base and fireplace mantel, hand made tile for the backsplash
and fireplace surround, wood elevated island table, and wood panel backsplash at the bar. Hand made tiles had
previously been installed in the existing kitchen. The color of these tiles is no longer available. It was the home-
owners desire to preserve these tiles somehow. We cut the tile off the walls and soaked the drywall from them.
We then installed them in the powder room as a feature behind the vanity and mirror.

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.

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

Set on a narrow lakefront parcel defined by tight setbacks and limited hardscape allowance, this modern cabin demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform restriction into possibility. Carefully composed to preserve privacy while opening fully toward the water, the home feels both expansive and intimate—an elevated retreat grounded in its landscape.
Though modest in footprint, the residence lives generously. Four bedrooms are tucked efficiently within the plan, including a light-filled quilting studio that reflects the homeowners’ creative life. Each bedroom opens onto its own private balcony, offering moments of pause and perspective with views stretching across lake and countryside.
The upper level also includes a family room, providing a quiet gathering space removed from the activity below. From here, the home’s vertical volume becomes apparent, as daylight pours down through a dramatic two-story space framed by glass facing the lake.
At the center of the home, a custom steel-and-wood plank stair acts as both circulation and sculpture. Rising through the double-height volume, it leads the eye upward to a tall Nelson cigar lamp suspended above—an intentional moment of drama and delight.
The main floor is designed around connection and flow. Kitchen, dining, and living areas exist as one continuous space, unified by light, views, and material warmth. A 12-foot-long island anchors the kitchen, serving as the natural gathering place for morning coffee, family meals, and summertime buffet-style entertaining. When fully opened, large folding accordion glass doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, allowing the screened porch to become a true extension of the living space.
Function is carefully layered throughout the plan. A mudroom entry from the tucked-under two-car garage includes a powder room and utility closet, while a generous entry closet provides essential storage and has been dimensioned to accommodate a future elevator.
Designed intentionally for aging in place, the home incorporates zero-threshold access from the garage, wide halls and doorways, reinforced wall blocking for future grab bars, and infrastructure for a future elevator—ensuring long-term comfort without compromising design.
Clad in dark painted board-and-batten siding, the exterior minimizes visual scale and allows the home to recede quietly into the landscape. Recessed balconies and façade elements are wrapped in warm wood-look siding, adding depth and contrast while bringing warmth into the interior. At night, light spills softly from within, and the cabin glows along the shoreline—welcoming, calm, and enduring.

Set on a narrow lakefront parcel defined by tight setbacks and limited hardscape allowance, this modern cabin demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform restriction into possibility. Carefully composed to preserve privacy while opening fully toward the water, the home feels both expansive and intimate—an elevated retreat grounded in its landscape.
Though modest in footprint, the residence lives generously. Four bedrooms are tucked efficiently within the plan, including a light-filled quilting studio that reflects the homeowners’ creative life. Each bedroom opens onto its own private balcony, offering moments of pause and perspective with views stretching across lake and countryside.
The upper level also includes a family room, providing a quiet gathering space removed from the activity below. From here, the home’s vertical volume becomes apparent, as daylight pours down through a dramatic two-story space framed by glass facing the lake.
At the center of the home, a custom steel-and-wood plank stair acts as both circulation and sculpture. Rising through the double-height volume, it leads the eye upward to a tall Nelson cigar lamp suspended above—an intentional moment of drama and delight.
The main floor is designed around connection and flow. Kitchen, dining, and living areas exist as one continuous space, unified by light, views, and material warmth. A 12-foot-long island anchors the kitchen, serving as the natural gathering place for morning coffee, family meals, and summertime buffet-style entertaining. When fully opened, large folding accordion glass doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, allowing the screened porch to become a true extension of the living space.
Function is carefully layered throughout the plan. A mudroom entry from the tucked-under two-car garage includes a powder room and utility closet, while a generous entry closet provides essential storage and has been dimensioned to accommodate a future elevator.
Designed intentionally for aging in place, the home incorporates zero-threshold access from the garage, wide halls and doorways, reinforced wall blocking for future grab bars, and infrastructure for a future elevator—ensuring long-term comfort without compromising design.
Clad in dark painted board-and-batten siding, the exterior minimizes visual scale and allows the home to recede quietly into the landscape. Recessed balconies and façade elements are wrapped in warm wood-look siding, adding depth and contrast while bringing warmth into the interior. At night, light spills softly from within, and the cabin glows along the shoreline—welcoming, calm, and enduring.

Set on a narrow lakefront parcel defined by tight setbacks and limited hardscape allowance, this modern cabin demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform restriction into possibility. Carefully composed to preserve privacy while opening fully toward the water, the home feels both expansive and intimate—an elevated retreat grounded in its landscape.
Though modest in footprint, the residence lives generously. Four bedrooms are tucked efficiently within the plan, including a light-filled quilting studio that reflects the homeowners’ creative life. Each bedroom opens onto its own private balcony, offering moments of pause and perspective with views stretching across lake and countryside.
The upper level also includes a family room, providing a quiet gathering space removed from the activity below. From here, the home’s vertical volume becomes apparent, as daylight pours down through a dramatic two-story space framed by glass facing the lake.
At the center of the home, a custom steel-and-wood plank stair acts as both circulation and sculpture. Rising through the double-height volume, it leads the eye upward to a tall Nelson cigar lamp suspended above—an intentional moment of drama and delight.
The main floor is designed around connection and flow. Kitchen, dining, and living areas exist as one continuous space, unified by light, views, and material warmth. A 12-foot-long island anchors the kitchen, serving as the natural gathering place for morning coffee, family meals, and summertime buffet-style entertaining. When fully opened, large folding accordion glass doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, allowing the screened porch to become a true extension of the living space.
Function is carefully layered throughout the plan. A mudroom entry from the tucked-under two-car garage includes a powder room and utility closet, while a generous entry closet provides essential storage and has been dimensioned to accommodate a future elevator.
Designed intentionally for aging in place, the home incorporates zero-threshold access from the garage, wide halls and doorways, reinforced wall blocking for future grab bars, and infrastructure for a future elevator—ensuring long-term comfort without compromising design.
Clad in dark painted board-and-batten siding, the exterior minimizes visual scale and allows the home to recede quietly into the landscape. Recessed balconies and façade elements are wrapped in warm wood-look siding, adding depth and contrast while bringing warmth into the interior. At night, light spills softly from within, and the cabin glows along the shoreline—welcoming, calm, and enduring.

Set on a narrow lakefront parcel defined by tight setbacks and limited hardscape allowance, this modern cabin demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform restriction into possibility. Carefully composed to preserve privacy while opening fully toward the water, the home feels both expansive and intimate—an elevated retreat grounded in its landscape.
Though modest in footprint, the residence lives generously. Four bedrooms are tucked efficiently within the plan, including a light-filled quilting studio that reflects the homeowners’ creative life. Each bedroom opens onto its own private balcony, offering moments of pause and perspective with views stretching across lake and countryside.
The upper level also includes a family room, providing a quiet gathering space removed from the activity below. From here, the home’s vertical volume becomes apparent, as daylight pours down through a dramatic two-story space framed by glass facing the lake.
At the center of the home, a custom steel-and-wood plank stair acts as both circulation and sculpture. Rising through the double-height volume, it leads the eye upward to a tall Nelson cigar lamp suspended above—an intentional moment of drama and delight.
The main floor is designed around connection and flow. Kitchen, dining, and living areas exist as one continuous space, unified by light, views, and material warmth. A 12-foot-long island anchors the kitchen, serving as the natural gathering place for morning coffee, family meals, and summertime buffet-style entertaining. When fully opened, large folding accordion glass doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, allowing the screened porch to become a true extension of the living space.
Function is carefully layered throughout the plan. A mudroom entry from the tucked-under two-car garage includes a powder room and utility closet, while a generous entry closet provides essential storage and has been dimensioned to accommodate a future elevator.
Designed intentionally for aging in place, the home incorporates zero-threshold access from the garage, wide halls and doorways, reinforced wall blocking for future grab bars, and infrastructure for a future elevator—ensuring long-term comfort without compromising design.
Clad in dark painted board-and-batten siding, the exterior minimizes visual scale and allows the home to recede quietly into the landscape. Recessed balconies and façade elements are wrapped in warm wood-look siding, adding depth and contrast while bringing warmth into the interior. At night, light spills softly from within, and the cabin glows along the shoreline—welcoming, calm, and enduring.
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