Search results for "Review challenges" in Home Design Ideas
Progressive Design BuildChallenge
This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use.
The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica.
Solution
To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included:
Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement
Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area
Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area
Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home
After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1).
It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions.
The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space.
Result
All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks.
Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard.
The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.
Western DuPage Landscaping, Inc.This partially wooded, acre and a half lot in West Dundee presented many challenges.
The clients began working with a Landscape Architect in the early spring, but after not getting the innovative ideas they were seeking, the home builder and Architect suggested the client contact our landscape design/build firm. We immediately hit it off with the charismatic clients. They had a tall order for us: complete the design and implement the construction within a three month period. For many projects this would be a reasonable time frame. However construction delays and the coordination of multiple trades left a very short window to complete the work.
Beyond the tight time frame the site required specific care in preserving the many mature surrounding trees, as well as addressing a vast grade change. Over fifteen feet of grade change occurs from one end of this woodland property to the other.
All of these constraints proved to be an enormous challenge as we worked to include and coordinate the following elements: the drive layout, a dramatic front entry, various gardens, landscape lighting, irrigation, and a plan for a backyard pool and entertainment space that already had been started without a clear plan.
Fortunately, the client loved our design ideas and attention to detail and we were able to mobilize and begin construction. With the seamless coordination between our firm and the builder we implemented all the elements of this grand project. In total eight different crews and five separate trades worked together to complete the landscape.
The completed project resulted in a rewarding experience for our firm, the builder and architect, as well as the client. Together we were able to create and construct a perfect oasis for the client that suited the beautiful property and the architecture of this dream home.
Vetter ArchitectsThe owners requested that their home harmonize with the spirit of the surrounding Colorado mountain setting and enhance their outdoor recreational lifestyle - while reflecting their contemporary architectural tastes. The site was burdened with a myriad of strict design criteria enforced by the neighborhood covenants and architectural review board. Creating a distinct design challenge, the covenants included a narrow interpretation of a “mountain style” home which established predetermined roof pitches, glazing percentages and material palettes - at direct odds with the client‘s vision of a flat-roofed, glass, “contemporary” home.
Our solution finds inspiration and opportunities within the site covenant’s strict definitions. It promotes and celebrates the client’s outdoor lifestyle and resolves the definition of a contemporary “mountain style” home by reducing the architecture to its most basic vernacular forms and relying upon local materials.
The home utilizes a simple base, middle and top that echoes the surrounding mountains and vegetation. The massing takes its cues from the prevalent lodgepole pine trees that grow at the mountain’s high altitudes. These pine trees have a distinct growth pattern, highlighted by a single vertical trunk and a peaked, densely foliated growth zone above a sparse base. This growth pattern is referenced by placing the wood-clad body of the home at the second story above an open base composed of wood posts and glass. A simple peaked roof rests lightly atop the home - visually floating above a triangular glass transom. The home itself is neatly inserted amongst an existing grove of lodgepole pines and oriented to take advantage of panoramic views of the adjacent meadow and Continental Divide beyond.
The main functions of the house are arranged into public and private areas and this division is made apparent on the home’s exterior. Two large roof forms, clad in pre-patinated zinc, are separated by a sheltering central deck - which signals the main entry to the home. At this connection, the roof deck is opened to allow a cluster of aspen trees to grow – further reinforcing nature as an integral part of arrival.
Outdoor living spaces are provided on all levels of the house and are positioned to take advantage of sunrise and sunset moments. The distinction between interior and exterior space is blurred via the use of large expanses of glass. The dry stacked stone base and natural cedar cladding both reappear within the home’s interior spaces.
This home offers a unique solution to the client’s requests while satisfying the design requirements of the neighborhood covenants. The house provides a variety of indoor and outdoor living spaces that can be utilized in all seasons. Most importantly, the house takes its cues directly from its natural surroundings and local building traditions to become a prototype solution for the “modern mountain house”.
Overview
Ranch Creek Ranch
Winter Park, Colorado
Completion Date
October, 2007
Services
Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture
Find the right local pro for your project
French Creek Designs Kitchen & Bath Design CenterSuccessful Master Bathroom Shower Surround Completed!
The challenge was to incorporate the master bath shower with the existing decor in this beautiful rustic mountain home. Existing exterior rock and a river rock fireplace and tub surround were the starting point for the choice of materials. The existing rock colors were grays with hints of blue undertones.
Pebble mosaics with the same color range were the perfect answer. The large format gray porcelain tiles look like natural stone with their realistic white veining. The results were stunning and create a seamless feeling withing the existing decor. This shower provides a brand new, updated, spacious space for the new home owners.
Client shares testimonial and review on Google: "Karen was so helpful in picking tile for my new shower. She took the time to come to my house to make sure the samples we picked out matched. The shower looks fantastic. We will definitely use French Creek again."
- See more reviews on Facebook and Google.
Making Your Home Beautiful One Room at a Time…
French Creek Designs Kitchen & Bath Design Studio - where selections begin. Let us design and dream with you. Overwhelmed on where to start that Home Improvement, Kitchen or Bath Project? Let our Designers video conference or sit down with you, take the overwhelming out of the picture and assist in choosing your materials. Whether new construction, full remodel or just a partial remodel, we can help you to make it an enjoyable experience to design your dream space. Call to schedule a free design consultation with one of our exceptional designers today! 307-337-4500
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Progressive Design BuildChallenge
This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use.
The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica.
Solution
To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included:
Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement
Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area
Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area
Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home
After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1).
It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions.
The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space.
Result
All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks.
Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard.
The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.
Progressive Design BuildChallenge
This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use.
The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica.
Solution
To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included:
Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement
Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area
Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area
Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home
After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1).
It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions.
The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space.
Result
All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks.
Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard.
The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.
Stark Kitchen Bath + PF Construction? 3D Bathroom Design Services
Visualize Your Remodel Before We Build It
At Stark Kitchen & Bath, every bathroom remodel begins with vision — yours. Our 3D Design Process allows you to see your new bathroom before construction begins, so every tile, fixture, and layout choice feels perfect.
Whether you’re updating a small guest bath or planning a luxury spa retreat, our design team uses advanced 3D rendering software to bring your ideas to life — ensuring your new space blends style, function, and affordability.
? What Our 3D Bath Designs Include
1. In-Home Consultation
We start by visiting your home to take precise measurements and discuss your goals, budget, and inspiration.
2. Full 3D Layout Rendering
Our design team creates a realistic digital model of your bathroom — showing cabinetry, countertops, shower walls, tile selections, lighting, and fixtures.
3. Style & Finish Selection
Choose from premium materials, including Tyvarian® cultured marble, quartz countertops, frameless glass enclosures, and high-end faucets and vanities.
4. Design Review at Our St. Petersburg Design Center
You’ll meet with your designer to review your 3D layout, make adjustments, and finalize selections before your project begins.
5. Seamless Transition to Construction
Once you approve your design, our licensed project managers coordinate installation to ensure your remodel matches the 3D plan down to the last detail.
Why Customers Love 3D Bathroom Design
✅ Visual Confidence: See your bathroom before spending a dime on materials.
✅ No Guesswork: Adjust layouts and colors in real time with your designer.
✅ Smart Planning: Identify design challenges early to stay on budget.
✅ Customized Experience: Every remodel reflects your lifestyle and taste.
? The Stark Kitchen & Bath Advantage
We believe in a customer-first remodeling experience — one built on trust, transparency, and innovation. Our 3D design service ensures every client starts with clarity and confidence, backed by licensed professionals and quality craftsmanship from design to installation.
? Ready to See Your New Bathroom in 3D?
Schedule your free in-home consultation today!
? Visit our St. Petersburg Design Center or call 941-315-8317.
Gaile Guevara| DETAILS | When we meet at corners it's a game of Tetris and the Rubix Cube exchange between material thickness and clearances to how lines intersect or how hardware functions to ensure full access so no inch of space is ever wasted. I've never been a fan of corner cabinetry it's always reminded me of the terrible girlfriend Lazy Susan. At first I was sad we lost the proposal of a full access 50" High and Wide cabinet because of the request to add a corner upper to left of hood fan. Sometimes with challenges we make hard decisions and often several rounds of shop drawing review and meetings are added. Much thanks to the hard work of @somafurniture and @caisleydevelopments for their patience. 2 hidden corner pull outs 1 for wet goods (oils & vinegars) + 1 for dry goods (spices & salts) full access upper above and below with the upgrade sister Lemans II corner pull out. @miele_com appliances are now installed and lie flush with @caesarstoneca countertops. Excited to see in person the perfect combo of white washed Baltic Birch cabinet fronts and interiors throughout. A whole new appreciation for making a corner work. Finger pull detail as the alternative to touch latch to avoid the finger prints and constant cleaning. I've seen over the years so many projects fail after 10-15 years touch latch hardware needing to be replaced.
Vetter ArchitectsThe owners requested that their home harmonize with the spirit of the surrounding Colorado mountain setting and enhance their outdoor recreational lifestyle - while reflecting their contemporary architectural tastes. The site was burdened with a myriad of strict design criteria enforced by the neighborhood covenants and architectural review board. Creating a distinct design challenge, the covenants included a narrow interpretation of a “mountain style” home which established predetermined roof pitches, glazing percentages and material palettes - at direct odds with the client‘s vision of a flat-roofed, glass, “contemporary” home.
Our solution finds inspiration and opportunities within the site covenant’s strict definitions. It promotes and celebrates the client’s outdoor lifestyle and resolves the definition of a contemporary “mountain style” home by reducing the architecture to its most basic vernacular forms and relying upon local materials.
The home utilizes a simple base, middle and top that echoes the surrounding mountains and vegetation. The massing takes its cues from the prevalent lodgepole pine trees that grow at the mountain’s high altitudes. These pine trees have a distinct growth pattern, highlighted by a single vertical trunk and a peaked, densely foliated growth zone above a sparse base. This growth pattern is referenced by placing the wood-clad body of the home at the second story above an open base composed of wood posts and glass. A simple peaked roof rests lightly atop the home - visually floating above a triangular glass transom. The home itself is neatly inserted amongst an existing grove of lodgepole pines and oriented to take advantage of panoramic views of the adjacent meadow and Continental Divide beyond.
The main functions of the house are arranged into public and private areas and this division is made apparent on the home’s exterior. Two large roof forms, clad in pre-patinated zinc, are separated by a sheltering central deck - which signals the main entry to the home. At this connection, the roof deck is opened to allow a cluster of aspen trees to grow – further reinforcing nature as an integral part of arrival.
Outdoor living spaces are provided on all levels of the house and are positioned to take advantage of sunrise and sunset moments. The distinction between interior and exterior space is blurred via the use of large expanses of glass. The dry stacked stone base and natural cedar cladding both reappear within the home’s interior spaces.
This home offers a unique solution to the client’s requests while satisfying the design requirements of the neighborhood covenants. The house provides a variety of indoor and outdoor living spaces that can be utilized in all seasons. Most importantly, the house takes its cues directly from its natural surroundings and local building traditions to become a prototype solution for the “modern mountain house”.
Overview
Ranch Creek Ranch
Winter Park, Colorado
Completion Date
October, 2007
Services
Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture
Progressive Design BuildChallenge
This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use.
The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica.
Solution
To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included:
Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement
Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area
Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area
Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home
After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1).
It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions.
The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space.
Result
All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks.
Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard.
The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.
InnovationLandIn this beautiful Houston remodel, we took on the exterior AND interior - with a new outdoor kitchen, patio cover and balcony outside and a Mid-Century Modern redesign on the inside:
"This project was really unique, not only in the extensive scope of it, but in the number of different elements needing to be coordinated with each other," says Outdoor Homescapes of Houston owner Wayne Franks. "Our entire team really rose to the challenge."
OUTSIDE
The new outdoor living space includes a 14 x 20-foot patio addition with an outdoor kitchen and balcony.
We also extended the roof over the patio between the house and the breezeway (the new section is 26 x 14 feet).
On the patio and balcony, we laid about 1,100-square foot of new hardscaping in the place of pea gravel. The new material is a gorgeous, honed-and-filled Nysa travertine tile in a Versailles pattern. We used the same tile for the new pool coping, too.
We also added French doors leading to the patio and balcony from a lower bedroom and upper game room, respectively:
The outdoor kitchen above features Southern Cream cobblestone facing and a Titanium granite countertop and raised bar.
The 8 x 12-foot, L-shaped kitchen island houses an RCS 27-inch grill, plus an RCS ice maker, lowered power burner, fridge and sink.
The outdoor ceiling is tongue-and-groove pine boards, done in the Minwax stain "Jacobean."
INSIDE
Inside, we repainted the entire house from top to bottom, including baseboards, doors, crown molding and cabinets. We also updated the lighting throughout.
"Their style before was really non-existent," says Lisha Maxey, senior designer with Outdoor Homescapes and owner of LGH Design Services in Houston.
"They did what most families do - got items when they needed them, worrying less about creating a unified style for the home."
Other than a new travertine tile floor the client had put in 6 months earlier, the space had never been updated. The drapery had been there for 15 years. And the living room had an enormous leather sectional couch that virtually filled the entire room.
In its place, we put all new, Mid-Century Modern furniture from World Market. The drapery fabric and chandelier came from High Fashion Home.
All the other new sconces and chandeliers throughout the house came from Pottery Barn and all décor accents from World Market.
The couple and their two teenaged sons got bedroom makeovers as well.
One of the sons, for instance, started with childish bunk beds and piles of books everywhere.
"We gave him a grown-up space he could enjoy well into his high school years," says Lisha.
The new bed is also from World Market.
We also updated the kitchen by removing all the old wallpaper and window blinds and adding new paint and knobs and pulls for the cabinets. (The family plans to update the backsplash later.)
The top handrail on the stairs got a coat of black paint, and we added a console table (from Kirkland's) in the downstairs hallway.
In the dining room, we painted the cabinet and mirror frames black and added new drapes, but kept the existing furniture and flooring.
"I'm just so pleased with how it turned out - especially Lisha's coordination of all the materials and finishes," says Wayne. "But as a full-service outdoor design team, this is what we do, and our all our great reviews are telling us we're doing it well."
R. E. Price, Fine Furniture & Custom CabinetryBuilt-in shelving unit
Inspiration for a timeless home design remodel in Boston
Inspiration for a timeless home design remodel in Boston
Progressive Design BuildChallenge
This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use.
The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica.
Solution
To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included:
Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement
Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area
Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area
Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home
After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1).
It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions.
The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space.
Result
All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks.
Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard.
The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.
Drury DesignThis house was 45 years old and the most recent kitchen update was past its due date. The idea was to refresh the space with a transitional design that leaned classic – something that would be elegant and comfortable. Something that would welcome and enhance natural light.
The objectives were:
-Keep things simple – classic, comfortable and easy to keep clean
Design challenges:
-Incorporate a structural beam so that it flows with the entire space
-Proper ventilation for the hood
-Update the floor finish to get rid of the ’90s red oak
Design solutions:
-After reviewing multiple design options we decided on keeping appliances in their existing locations
-Made the cabinet on the back wall deeper than standard to fit and conceal the exhaust vent within the crown molding space and provide proper ventilation for the rangetop
-Omitted the sink on the island because it was not being used
-Squared off the island to provide more seating and functionality
-Relocated the microwave from the wall to the island and fitted a warming drawer directly below
-Added a tray partition over the oven so that cookie sheets and cutting boards are easily accessible and neatly stored
-Omitted all the decorative fillers to make the kitchen feel current
-Detailed yet simple tile backsplash design to add interest
Refinished the already functional entertainment cabinetry to match new cabinets – good flow throughout area
Even though the appliances all stayed in the same locations, the cabinet finish created a dramatic change. This is a very large kitchen and the client embraces minimalist design so we decided to omit quite a few wall cabinets.
Drury DesignThis primary bathroom remodel is part of a major update for a family of four that also included a wet bar and an epic mudroom in the lower level.
The existing primary bathroom was outdated and lacked functionality.
Design Objectives
-Large shower with a bench
-Freestanding tub with lumbar support
-Ample storage and counter space
-Keep an accessible view of the backyard
Design Challenges:
-Arrangement that maintains an unobstructed view of the wildlife in the backyard
-Have the toilet be more private and not in the middle of the room, without closing in the rest of the space
-Keeping the bathroom footprint open while incorporating separate vanities, a shower and a freestanding tub
Design Solutions:
-After reviewing many different floor plan options, we decided on placing the large freestanding tub at a 45-degree angle so the family can walk up to it and still look out the window.
-We bumped into the primary bedroom about 4’ to accomplish a large shower without giving up bathroom floorspace.
-Since we had both a large shower and a tub in this space there wasn’t quite enough room to fully enclose the toilet area. Instead, we “hid” it in the corner next to a sink vanity. We filled the space across from it with a tall linen cabinet.
-Soft white tile on the floor and white painted walls keep this space light and bright while making the footprint feel wide and spacious. The natural light and numerous decorative light fixtures also brighten the space. The angled tub promotes visual flow.
Even though this is the primary bathroom, the kids also like to use this space. It is spacious – with the two separate vanities, multiple family members can use this space at the same time.
San Diego Bath & TileLarge trendy master mosaic tile floor freestanding bathtub photo in San Diego with white walls
Griffith Indoor & Outdoor LivingThis Castle Pines landscape transformation was designed for a newer home with strict HOA requirements, significant drainage challenges and large slopes across both the front and backyard. Griffith Designs created a customized, HOA-compatible landscape plan focused on extremely low maintenance, water-wise performance and lasting curb appeal.
Failing and poorly suited plant material was removed and replaced with resilient, drought-tolerant shrubs and perennials selected for Colorado’s climate. Seasonal pops of color keep the landscape visually interesting throughout the year, while existing shrubs were selectively trimmed and retained where they continued to complement the new design.
The irrigation system was expanded to support all new planting areas and encourage healthy, efficient growth. In the backyard, two custom raised garden beds near the fire-pit area create a tailored focal point and add dimension to the outdoor living space. Existing backyard plantings were also replaced with more durable, water-wise varieties.
Refreshed hardscape materials, rock, mulch and planting-bed finishes bring the entire property together with a clean, cohesive appearance. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design for HOA review and approval, resulting in a polished Castle Pines xeriscape that addresses the property’s slopes and drainage conditions while meeting the homeowners’ desire for beauty, color and minimal upkeep.
Windy City PaintersEvery Chicago home carries its own unique history—and its own set of restoration challenges. From moisture-damaged plaster and decades of paint layers to the harsh thermal cycles of Chicago winters, generic painting approaches simply won't cut it.
At Windy City Painters, we take a tailored, craftsmanship-first approach to local properties across the North Side and Near West Side.
Our 4-Step Restoration Process:
Prep & Surface Repair: Thorough cleaning, sanding, skim coating, and patching for plaster, drywall, and historic wood trim.
Substrate Priming: Applying high-performance primers (such as Zinsser) tailored to the exact surface for maximum adhesion.
Precision Application: Coating with premium, long-lasting finishes using Sherwin-Williams Duration and Benjamin Moore Aura.
Final Inspection: Rigorous multi-point review ensuring pristine line work and surface consistency.
Whether you're restoring a historic greystone in Lincoln Park or updating a modern loft in River North, we deliver durable, beautiful finishes designed to withstand Chicago's demanding four-season climate.
Get Started: Ready to elevate your interior or exterior spaces? Request your free estimate at windypainters.com.
Griffith Indoor & Outdoor LivingThis Castle Pines landscape transformation was designed for a newer home with strict HOA requirements, significant drainage challenges and large slopes across both the front and backyard. Griffith Designs created a customized, HOA-compatible landscape plan focused on extremely low maintenance, water-wise performance and lasting curb appeal.
Failing and poorly suited plant material was removed and replaced with resilient, drought-tolerant shrubs and perennials selected for Colorado’s climate. Seasonal pops of color keep the landscape visually interesting throughout the year, while existing shrubs were selectively trimmed and retained where they continued to complement the new design.
The irrigation system was expanded to support all new planting areas and encourage healthy, efficient growth. In the backyard, two custom raised garden beds near the fire-pit area create a tailored focal point and add dimension to the outdoor living space. Existing backyard plantings were also replaced with more durable, water-wise varieties.
Refreshed hardscape materials, rock, mulch and planting-bed finishes bring the entire property together with a clean, cohesive appearance. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design for HOA review and approval, resulting in a polished Castle Pines xeriscape that addresses the property’s slopes and drainage conditions while meeting the homeowners’ desire for beauty, color and minimal upkeep.
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