Search results for "Scaled down options" in Home Design Ideas

This front yard landscaping project consist of multiple of our modern collections!
Modern grey retaining wall: The smooth look of the Raffinato collection brings modern elegance to your tailored spaces. This contemporary double-sided retaining wall is offered in an array of modern colours.
Discover the Raffinato retaining wall: https://www.techo-bloc.com/shop/walls/raffinato-smooth/
Modern grey stone steps: The sleek, polished look of the Raffinato stone step is a more elegant and refined alternative to modern and very linear concrete steps. Offered in three modern colors, these stone steps are a welcomed addition to your next outdoor step project!
Discover our Raffinato stone steps here: https://www.techo-bloc.com/shop/steps/raffinato-step/
Modern grey floor pavers: A modern paver available in over 50 scale and color combinations, Industria is a popular choice amongst architects designing urban spaces. This paver's de-icing salt resistance and 100mm height makes it a reliable option for industrial, commercial and institutional applications.
Discover the Industria paver here: https://www.techo-bloc.com/shop/pavers/industria-smooth-paver/

Traditional styling, inspired by European 19th century antiques. Elegantly scaled and proportioned sleigh crib in a Smoked Oak finish on plantation hardwood solids and white oak veneers. Accented with Dark Antique Brass hardware.
Can be converted to a day bed by leaving off the front, can be converted to a toddler bed by purchasing additional toddler kit and can be converted to a full bed with the purchase of optional bed rails.

Waynesboro master bath renovation in Houston, Texas. This is a small 5'x12' bathroom that we were able to squeeze a lot of nice features into. When dealing with a very small vanity top, using a wall mounted faucet frees up your counter space. The use of large 24x24 tiles in the small shower cuts down on the busyness of grout lines and gives a larger scale to the small space. The wall behind the commode is shared with another bath and is actually 8" deep, so we boxed out that space and have a very deep storage cabinet that looks shallow from the outside. A large sheet glass mirror mounted with standoffs also helps the space to feel larger.
Granite: Brown Sucuri 3cm
Vanity: Stained mahogany, custom made by our carpenter
Wall Tile: Emser Paladino Albanelle 24x24
Floor Tile: Emser Perspective Gray 12x24
Accent Tile: Emser Silver Marble Mini Offset
Liner Tile: Emser Silver Cigaro 1x12
Wall Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Oyster Bay
Trim Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Alabaster
Plumbing Fixtures: Danze
Lighting: Kenroy Home Margot Mini Pendants
All Photos by Curtis Lawson
Find the right local pro for your project

For doors or sidelights, Vignette Modern Roman Shades are a soft an elegant option for light filtering and privacy. Available in cordless options, the shades can be raised or lowered by a simple lift or pull of the handle.

Two years before this photo shoot, a Bloomington couple came to SYI wondering whether to renovate their dated bi-level or upgrade to a new house entirely: the classic love-it-or-list-it dilemma. The whole house needed to be touched, really: bathrooms and kitchen, lighting and flooring and paint everywhere, not to mention new furniture to fill in and improve the living spaces. We spent a year with this family, considering options that were less transformative but allowed for the whole house to be upgraded, as well as options that dramatically changed the main living space but meant the rest of the house would have to wait. Meanwhile, they kept an eye out for better digs in town: a house at their price point, that met their family's needs and matched their aesthetic without major construction.
After a year of hunting, hemming and hawing: they pulled the trigger. Give us the whole enchilada in the kitchen and main living space, they said. There's no other house for us. The bathrooms and basement can wait. Make this space, where we spend all our time, a place we love to be.
Walls and ceilings came down; clerestory windows went in. A stunning 4-panel sliding door-cum-window wall replaced two separate doors in two separate rooms, and the sun streaming in now gives this house in Indiana a California-like access to the outdoors. The central custom screen does triple duty: displaying the client's objets d'art, hiding an HVAC chase, and holding up the ceiling. The gas fireplace is completely new, with custom shelving on either side. Of course, in 2017, the kitchen anchors everything. Family Central, it features custom cabinetry, honed quartz, a new window wall, and a huge island. Materials are earthy and natural, lending a warm modern effect to the space. The medium stain of the wood and overall horizontality of the design are a nod to the home's era (1967), while white cabinetry and charcoal tile provide a neutral but crisp backdrop for the family's stunning and colorful art collection.
The result: an ordinary bi-level is now an extraordinary home, unlike any other in Bloomington.
Contractor: Rusty Peterson Construction
Cabinetry: Tim Graber Furniture
Photography: Gina Rogers

For doors or sidelights, Vignette Modern Roman Shades, available in cordless options, can be raised or lowered by a simple lift or pull of the handle. The Top-Down/Bottom-up Feature allows for a view above with privacy below or vice-versa.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space.
Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings.
Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes.
Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command.
Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models.
Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices.
Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor.
Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated.
If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

An empty-nester couple was scaling down from a large house in Rye into a waterfront condo
With spectacular harbor views, the condo needed a full redo including the removal of walls to open up the living spaces. Cabinetry by Studio Dearborn/Schrocks of Walnut Creek in custom gray stain, Range hood, Futuro Futuro. Quartzmaster engineered quartz countertops; Photos, Tim Lenz.

The owners requested a Private Resort that catered to their love for entertaining friends and family, a place where 2 people would feel just as comfortable as 42. Located on the western edge of a Wisconsin lake, the site provides a range of natural ecosystems from forest to prairie to water, allowing the building to have a more complex relationship with the lake - not merely creating large unencumbered views in that direction. The gently sloping site to the lake is atypical in many ways to most lakeside lots - as its main trajectory is not directly to the lake views - allowing for focus to be pushed in other directions such as a courtyard and into a nearby forest.
The biggest challenge was accommodating the large scale gathering spaces, while not overwhelming the natural setting with a single massive structure. Our solution was found in breaking down the scale of the project into digestible pieces and organizing them in a Camp-like collection of elements:
- Main Lodge: Providing the proper entry to the Camp and a Mess Hall
- Bunk House: A communal sleeping area and social space.
- Party Barn: An entertainment facility that opens directly on to a swimming pool & outdoor room.
- Guest Cottages: A series of smaller guest quarters.
- Private Quarters: The owners private space that directly links to the Main Lodge.
These elements are joined by a series green roof connectors, that merge with the landscape and allow the out buildings to retain their own identity. This Camp feel was further magnified through the materiality - specifically the use of Doug Fir, creating a modern Northwoods setting that is warm and inviting. The use of local limestone and poured concrete walls ground the buildings to the sloping site and serve as a cradle for the wood volumes that rest gently on them. The connections between these materials provided an opportunity to add a delicate reading to the spaces and re-enforce the camp aesthetic.
The oscillation between large communal spaces and private, intimate zones is explored on the interior and in the outdoor rooms. From the large courtyard to the private balcony - accommodating a variety of opportunities to engage the landscape was at the heart of the concept.
Overview
Chenequa, WI
Size
Total Finished Area: 9,543 sf
Completion Date
May 2013
Services
Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

This awesome Kids Tent Cabin Bed (in green, but other colours are available!) is the perfect centre piece in any kids bedroom and will create a wonderful adventure scene. It can be used as an enclosed bed or the cloth side wall can open up into a canopy which is held up by 2 poles. And the canopy can just as easily be taken down again, the cloth rolled up and fastened with strips.... perfect for keeping out mum and dad or annoying brothers and sisters at playtime. For more childrens bed inspiration click here.
We also deliver to the United States & Countries outside the UK! Please contact us for an overseas shipping quote. Email us at customerservice@cuckooland.com or call +44 (0) 1305 231 231 Mon-Fri 9-6pm UK time.
This unique & unusual children's bed has a second sliding second bed underneath, so it's great for sleep overs (please note, mattresses not included but can be bought separately).
2 Beds - perfect for sleepovers.
Mattress sold separately,mattress size required: 90cm x 190cm.
Dimensions: Width 208cm x Depth 110cm x Height 146cm.
This product is handmade to order in France and will take 4-5 weeks for delivery.
Optional 2 man installation at time of delivery £150
We also offer you the option to have the bed fully installed by our professional 2 man delivery team at a cost of £150. Our team will arrive on time, discuss your requirements, unpack and fully install your bed and take away all the packing materials so all the hassle is taken care of.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The client requested a large (19 foot wide by 15 foot projection) two-span retractable waterproof patio cover system to provide heavy rain, hail, heat, sun, glare and UV protection. This would allow our client to sit outside and enjoy their garden throughout the year, extending their outdoor entertainment space. For functionality they requested that water drain from the rear of the system into the front beam and down inside the right end post, exiting at the bottom from a tiny hole and draining into the flower beds thus preventing rain water from simply dropping off the front of the unit. The entire system used one continuous piece of fabric and one motor. The uprights and guides meet together at a smooth L-shaped angle, flush at the top for a perfectly smooth profile. The system has a Beaufort wind load rating Scale 10 (up to 63 mph) with the fabric fully extended and in use. A grey hood was also used to prevent rain water, debris and snow from collecting in the folds of fabric when not in use. A running profile from end to end in the rear of the unit was used to attach the Somfy RTS motor which is installed inside a motor safety box. Circular concrete footers were installed in the grassy area in front of the unit for mounting the 3 posts. To allow for a flat vertical mounting surface, a ledger board using pressure-treated wood was mounted the full 19-foot wall width, as the client’s house was made of uneven, thick stone.
PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT:
The client’s intention was for installation of a retractable waterproof patio cover system to provide heavy rain, hail, heat, sun, glare and UV protection for their backyard patio area.
What is unique or complex about the project?
This project was difficult for two main reasons: 1. Very large installation fasteners needed to be used to install through the above referenced ledger board and deep in to the stone structure of the house. 2. The motor cable needed to be placed through deeply drilled holes as the stone wall house wall is 15” thick. Drilling through en-even stone was definitely a challenge.
PROJECT RESULTS
The client was delighted with the results. The retractable patio cover system now makes it possible for the client to use a very large area in the rear of their house 24/7, 365 with the exclusion of snow. Since the client was very happy, they will be covering the ends, front and sides with our motorized vertical drop zippered awnings. Gable ends will also be covered with fixed fabric panels. Enclosing the entire area will allow the customer to heat the space in the winter and air condition the space in the summer.

5- 15K & 1-9.2K SEALED GAS BURNERS
CAST IRON PORCELAIN TOP GRATES
SIMMER SETTINGS & AUTO REIGNITION
RED CONTROL KNOBS W/PLATINUM BEZELS
CLASSIC STAINLESS EXTERIOR FINISH
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
Optional-5", 10", 20" Classic Stainless Risers
Optional-Black Control Knobs
Optional-Chrome or Brass Bevels
Optional-Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Wok Grate
Optional-Porcelain Cast 2-Burner S-Grate
APPEARANCE:
Classical Stainless Steel Exterior Finish
Red Control Knobs w/ Platinum Bezels
CONVENIENCE FEATURES:
Sabbath Mode
COOKTOP FEATURES:
1-9,200 BTU Dual Stacked Burner w/ 325 BTU Simmer
Cast Iron Porcelain Continuous Top Grates
Simmer & Auto Reignition At All Settings
5-15,000 BTU Dual Stacked Burners w/950 BTU Simmer
6 Sealed Gas Burners
ENERGY/POWER:
Gas Rangetop
Optional-High Altitude Conversion Kit
MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY:
2 Year Parts and Labor
5 Year Parts-Gas Burners, Electric Elements
PRODUCT DIMENSIONS:
Depth: 24 1/4 Inches
Height: 8 1/2 Inches
Width: 35 7/8 Inches

Russell Campaigne
Inspiration for a small modern l-shaped cork floor open concept kitchen remodel in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, red cabinets, solid surface countertops, metallic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island
Inspiration for a small modern l-shaped cork floor open concept kitchen remodel in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, red cabinets, solid surface countertops, metallic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Sponsored
Westerville, OH
Custom Home Works
Franklin County's Award-Winning Design, Build and Remodeling Expert

Kate McComb
Mid-sized transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Bridgeport with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula
Mid-sized transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Bridgeport with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

After six years of living in their Huntley IL home, Chris and Meghan were tired of their dark, dingy, outdated kitchen and it was finally time for a long-anticipated change. “The kitchen is the place where we live, it’s where we do everything,” Meghan said. “It was important that it be a space where we wanted to be.” Meghan loves cooking and enjoys including their girls in healthy meal prepping, this led them to want a brighter, more enjoyable kitchen with increased functionality and improved storage.
For Chris especially, the laundry room was an entirely dysfunctional eyesore. “We had a washer and a dryer, but it was all kind-of cobbled together!” Chris said. “There were always laundry piles everywhere, we weren’t really sure what we wanted to do in there, but it was time for us to make a change.” The mess of the space was stressful every time they walked in the door from the garage each day. Kids’ backpacks and shoes piled up haphazardly in the makeshift boot-bench closet left the family feeling disorganized and stressed. They needed space for folding clothes and locker cubbies to help keep the family organized.
Having known Christine and Todd in the Huntley community for years, Chris and Meghan were familiar with their work. “We already trusted them personally and having seen their projects for years we knew they did top notch work. After we reviewed the initial round of designs, we knew that hiring them was definitely the right choice,” Meghan and Chris said. Although Chris had done a lot of work in their home himself, the kitchen and laundry room renovation was such a large undertaking that he didn’t want to steal time away from his family to spend what would surely be many long weekends doing the job himself. “That would not have been a wise choice for us,” Chris laughed.
“Our designer, Michelle was very, very, easy to work with; anything we wanted to see or weren’t sure about, she went above and beyond to make this easy for us. She was easy to get hold of and always quick to respond,” the couple said. Michelle pulled ideas that mirrored the couple’s taste and style and was adept at directing the couple to limited choices that didn’t overwhelm them and kept the process moving. “I have a hard time making decisions. Michelle made the decision-making process so easy. I loved how she listened to what I liked and then presented three great options for me to choose from,” Meghan said.
The main objectives for the kitchen were better storage solutions, they wanted the space to reflect their lifestyle and taste, and they wanted it to last for years with low maintenance. One of the first steps in creating a more functional kitchen was relocating the refrigerator, creating an improved workflow for the busy family.
“We didn’t know that we could even move the refrigerator to a new location where it is now, that was something that we never would have thought of,” Chris said. “The new refrigerator location makes the kitchen feel so much bigger. We didn’t add any space, but our whole kitchen with the new design just seems like it’s so much larger than before!” Meghan said.
The perimeter mist colored cabinets helped warm and brighten the entire room, while the graphite colored cabinets on the island added contrast. Using this fresh, clean color palette satisfied the couple’s desire for a bright space that was the exact opposite of what they had before. Organization accessories were also added to the cabinets such as a spice drawer tray and roll outs to create hidden convenience.
“I absolutely love the hidden spices – it makes cooking so much more enjoyable!” Chris said. “And all the pull outs, and the double trash bin, who would think you could get so excited about organization!” the couple said in unison.
One thing they hated in their original kitchen was how dark the space felt. Added lighting on the ceiling with the new light fixtures combined with the lighter cabinetry colors throughout solved this problem. “Our new kitchen has this warm, almost cozy feeling that our old kitchen never had, it’s just a space that I love spending my time in now,” Meghan said. The light airy feeling was accentuated with the use of floating white shelves on either side of the decorative range hood. “We have so much cabinetry space, the new design is amazing we actually have more storage space than we will ever need,” Meghan said.
The island was extended to create more work surface and added space for stool seating. “The new island changes how we live. Now the kids can be in the kitchen with us, doing homework, eating breakfast, and the three of us have special dinners there when Chris is working late,” Meghan said.
The Carrara Marmi Quartz countertops were chosen because they are, not only beautiful, but are made from hard-working material that doesn’t require maintenance. The white subway tile backsplash that wraps to the ceiling behind the focal point cooktop range/hood compliments the crisp white countertops perfectly, while brushed brass hardware and light fixtures keep the design fresh and new.
The couple had a few fears at the beginning of the project, as most homeowners do. Their biggest fear was being out of their kitchen and laundry room for an extended time. The crew made it very easy for the family to work in a limited space keeping the washer and dryer hooked up the majority of the time, and also getting appliances working with minimal downtime.
“They above and beyond accommodated us to get us through the process,” Meghan said. “They did a great job making sure we were as comfortable as possible throughout the process,” Chris added.
“Our project manager DJ did a great job. He was very good at updating us on schedule changes, getting guys in as quickly as possible. Everyone that stepped in the house was nice and did great work,” said Chris. They thought Advance’s carpenter was phenomenal and were impressed when he took a conceptual idea from a photograph and worked with designer Michelle to create a one of a kind range/hood that has become the topic of conversation with friends and family who visit the new kitchen. “He was in our house literally every day for several weeks. He was easy to work with and good at what he did,” Meghan and Chris said.
The focal point of the kitchen; a hand-crafted, custom-built ventilation hood was clad with handpicked reclaimed barnwood. Advance Design’s carpenter built the framework and the cladding to create a one-of-a-kind design element that the couple loves.
“I think it was especially fun for him to create something unique from scratch, showcasing his talent in this area,” Meghan said. “I love that my kitchen is not like everyone else’s. I got to pick out the wood on my hood and watch it being built and was able to choose what pieces of wood went where on it. It’s totally unique.”
Red Oak flooring was toothed-in throughout the kitchen and the rest of the first floor anywhere changes were made. Then the whole floor was refinished to tone down the orange undertones in the existing floor stain, ultimately changing the color complexion of the entire first floor. The result is a completely new feeling to the entire home.
Renovating the laundry room was extremely important to Meghan and Chris, but they had trouble visualizing what the possibilities were for the seemingly small space. Michelle produced beautiful 3D illustrations that helped them envision the space in a whole new way.
“I must have told Michelle 100 times that I am a visual person, seeing the designs in 3D made it so easy to make decisions and see what we could really do with our space,” Meghan said.
A dividing wall and doorway were removed between the existing laundry room and hallway formerly containing a coat closet, providing space to design specialized graphite colored cabinetry matching the kitchen island to house custom storage cubbies for each family member. Adding the tall utility cabinetry in the new laundry area helped solve the storage issue, tucking away cleaning supplies, household items, and even the cat got its own cubby.
“I love how everything is now hidden in its own space. I can’t tell you how much I hated coming home and seeing everything sitting around on counters,” Chris said.
Electrical outlets were planned for the inside of utility cabinets, so devices could charge in hidden locations. Stacking the washer and dryer allowed for wider countertop space to provide a folding area and a special space for clothes to hang. “The way I do laundry has been completely transformed! I can actually fold clothes and hang them now right out of the washer and dryer,” Meghan said.
“The end result in the kitchen and the laundry/mud room was an updated light and bright space, with a smarter work flow that better meets the needs of this family,” Michelle said.
“I would totally recommend Advance Design,” Meghan said. “Sometimes I sit and just look at my kitchen and laundry room and think ‘Wow, I can’t believe I get to live here!’ It’s an understatement to say we love our new space.”

The indoor and outdoor kitchen is connected by sliding doors that stack back for easy access to both spaces. This angle shows how headers and rails in the exterior’s frame manage the motorized screens. When the glass doors are open and the screens are down, the indoor/outdoor division is eliminated and the options for cooking, lounging and dining expand. Additionally, this angle shows a close up of the stepping stones that serve as a bridge over the shallow lounge area of the pool.

Waynesboro master bath renovation in Houston, Texas. This is a small 5'x12' bathroom that we were able to squeeze a lot of nice features into. When dealing with a very small vanity top, using a wall mounted faucet frees up your counter space. The use of large 24x24 tiles in the small shower cuts down on the busyness of grout lines and gives a larger scale to the small space. The wall behind the commode is shared with another bath and is actually 8" deep, so we boxed out that space and have a very deep storage cabinet that looks shallow from the outside. A large sheet glass mirror mounted with standoffs also helps the space to feel larger.
Granite: Brown Sucuri 3cm
Vanity: Stained mahogany, custom made by our carpenter
Wall Tile: Emser Paladino Albanelle 24x24
Floor Tile: Emser Perspective Gray 12x24
Accent Tile: Emser Silver Marble Mini Offset
Liner Tile: Emser Silver Cigaro 1x12
Wall Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Oyster Bay
Trim Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Alabaster
Plumbing Fixtures: Danze
Lighting: Kenroy Home Margot Mini Pendants
All Photos by Curtis Lawson

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

 
Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
This client wanted a complete update of their kitchen and came to us with several objectives. They wanted a larger island and easier access to the dining room. They also wanted to eliminate the existing cooktop location from the island and make the island larger. Because the existing space was not able to accommodate all those requests, we decided to eliminate the breakfast area and incorporate that space into the kitchen. By eliminating an existing bay window and making the kitchen sink window larger, we were able to make the new layout work without sacrificing any natural light. A French door to the newly added and adjoining sunroom and casual outdoor dining spot still allows for multiple dining options. And by enlarging the opening to the dining room, it allows for easier access to this space on a daily basis versus for special occasions only.
The client already had a large desk in the kitchen and spends a lot of time at this area. We were able to make the new desk even larger by moving the refrigerator to another area. The refrigerator is covered in decorative panels so that it blends nicely into the furniture look of the room. The larger island can now seat several people comfortably.
The room’s traditional feel was achieved by providing different finishes on the perimeter, island and desk cabinetry. Handmade gray backsplash tile, a combination of soapstone and Carrera marble give the space a classic appeal. Details provide interest – custom glass mullions, decorative wood hood and bronze hardware give the space character and charm.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Interior Design by: Rachel Alcorn
Architect: Rick Rearick
Contractor: KJN Renovations
Photography by: Mike Kaskel
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This project began with the goal of updating both style and function to allow for improved ease of use for a wheelchair. The previous space was overstuffed with an island that didn't really fit, an over-sized fridge in a location that complicated a primary doorway, and a 42" tall high bar that was inaccessible from a wheelchair. Our clients desired a space that would improve wheelchair use for both cooking or just being in the room, yet did not look like an ADA space. It became a story of less is more, and subtle, thoughtful changes from a standard design.
After working through options, we designed an open floorplan that provided a galley kitchen function with a full 5 ft walkway by use of a peninsula open to the family den. This peninsula is highlighted by a drop down, table-height countertop wrapping the end and long backside that is now accessible to all members of the family by providing a perfect height for a flexible workstation in a wheelchair or comfortable entertaining on the backside. We then dropped the height for cooking at the new induction cooktop and created knee space below. Further, we specified an apron front sink that brings the sink closer in reach than a traditional undermount sink that would have countertop rimming in front. An articulating faucet with no limitations on reach provides full range of access in the sink. The ovens and microwave were also situated at a height comfortable for use from a wheelchair. Where a refrigerator used to block the doorway, a pull out is now located giving easy access to dry goods for cooks at all heights. Every element within the space was considered for the impact to our homes occupants - wheelchair or not, even the doorswing on the microwave.
Now our client has a kitchen that every member of the family can use and be a part of. Simple design, with a well-thought out plan, makes a difference in the lives of another family.
Photos by David Cobb Photography

The owners requested a Private Resort that catered to their love for entertaining friends and family, a place where 2 people would feel just as comfortable as 42. Located on the western edge of a Wisconsin lake, the site provides a range of natural ecosystems from forest to prairie to water, allowing the building to have a more complex relationship with the lake - not merely creating large unencumbered views in that direction. The gently sloping site to the lake is atypical in many ways to most lakeside lots - as its main trajectory is not directly to the lake views - allowing for focus to be pushed in other directions such as a courtyard and into a nearby forest.
The biggest challenge was accommodating the large scale gathering spaces, while not overwhelming the natural setting with a single massive structure. Our solution was found in breaking down the scale of the project into digestible pieces and organizing them in a Camp-like collection of elements:
- Main Lodge: Providing the proper entry to the Camp and a Mess Hall
- Bunk House: A communal sleeping area and social space.
- Party Barn: An entertainment facility that opens directly on to a swimming pool & outdoor room.
- Guest Cottages: A series of smaller guest quarters.
- Private Quarters: The owners private space that directly links to the Main Lodge.
These elements are joined by a series green roof connectors, that merge with the landscape and allow the out buildings to retain their own identity. This Camp feel was further magnified through the materiality - specifically the use of Doug Fir, creating a modern Northwoods setting that is warm and inviting. The use of local limestone and poured concrete walls ground the buildings to the sloping site and serve as a cradle for the wood volumes that rest gently on them. The connections between these materials provided an opportunity to add a delicate reading to the spaces and re-enforce the camp aesthetic.
The oscillation between large communal spaces and private, intimate zones is explored on the interior and in the outdoor rooms. From the large courtyard to the private balcony - accommodating a variety of opportunities to engage the landscape was at the heart of the concept.
Overview
Chenequa, WI
Size
Total Finished Area: 9,543 sf
Completion Date
May 2013
Services
Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design
68
