Set just steps from iconic Dolores Park, this light-filled San Francisco home was transformed into a refined urban retreat that balances playful modernity with timeless sophistication. The design centers around clean lines, sculptural forms, and a palette that shifts gracefully from soft neutrals to rich, expressive tones. In the living spaces, layered textures and curated furnishings create an atmosphere that feels both polished and inviting. Warm wood elements ground the interiors, while thoughtful accents in saturated blues and greens introduce energy and visual rhythm to each room.The kitchen and dining areas embrace simplicity and flow, pairing minimalist cabinetry with bold stone surfaces and contemporary lighting for a look that’s effortlessly elevated. Throughout the home, art-forward details and refined material choices lend a gallery-like calm without sacrificing comfort. Bedrooms take on a serene, tailored sensibility, offering a restful counterpoint to the vibrancy of the city just outside. The result is a residence that feels distinctly modern yet deeply livable—an elegant backdrop for everyday life in one of San Francisco’s most beloved neighborhoods.

Our clients for this grand mountain lodge wanted the warmth and solidness of timber to contrast many of the contemporary steel, glass and stone architecture more prevalent in the area recently. A desire for timberwork with ‘GRRRR’ equipped to handle the massive snowloads in this location, ensured that the timbers were fit to scale this awe-inspiring 8700sq ft residence. Working with Peter Rose Architecture + Interiors Inc., we came up with unique designs for the timberwork to be highlighted throughout the entire home. The Kettle River crew worked for 2.5 years designing and erecting the timber frame as well as the 2 feature staircases and complex heavy timber mouldings and mantle in the great room. We also coordinated and installed the direct set glazing on the timberwork and the unique Unison lift and slide doors that integrate seamlessly with the timberwork. Huge credit should also be given to the very talented builder on this project - MacDougall Construction & Renovations, it was a pleasure to partner with your team on this project.

Photo: Rick Pharoah
Inspiration for a contemporary dark wood floor and brown floor living room remodel in San Francisco with white walls, a ribbon fireplace and a stone fireplace

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Trendy 3/4 black tile gray floor and single-sink alcove shower photo in Houston with flat-panel cabinets, an integrated sink, a hinged shower door, gray countertops, a floating vanity and medium tone wood cabinets

This countryside kitchen includes a beautiful blue statement island, which adds originality to the classic space. The cabinetry is made by Downsview and the design is done through Astro Design Centre in Ottawa Canada. Astro Design, Ottawa DoubleSpace Photography

We drew inspiration from traditional prairie motifs and updated them for this modern home in the mountains. Throughout the residence, there is a strong theme of horizontal lines integrated with a natural, woodsy palette and a gallery-like aesthetic on the inside. Interiors by Alchemy Design Photography by Todd Crawford Built by Tyner Construction

A spacious Tudor Revival in Lower Westchester was revamped with an open floor plan and large kitchen with breakfast area and counter seating. The leafy view on the range wall was preserved with a series of large leaded glass windows by LePage. Wire brushed quarter sawn oak cabinetry in custom stain lends the space warmth and old world character. Kitchen design and custom cabinetry by Studio Dearborn. Architect Ned Stoll, Stoll and Stoll. Pietra Cardosa limestone counters by Rye Marble and Stone. Appliances by Wolf and Subzero; range hood by Best. Cabinetry color: Benjamin Moore Brushed Aluminum. Hardware by Schaub & Company. Stools by Arteriors Home. Shell chairs with dowel base, Modernica. Photography Neil Landino.

Details: Kitchen tools are organized and stored in divided sections here with a pull-out cutting board above. Elsewhere, knives, flatware and silverware are stored in similar custom-made drawers. The range at left has an induction cooktop.

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

lindamcmanusimages RUDLOFF Custom Builders, is a residential construction company that connects with clients early in the design phase to ensure every detail of your project is captured just as you imagined. RUDLOFF Custom Builders will create the project of your dreams that is executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsman, while creating lifetime client relationships that are build on trust and integrity. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area including West Chester, Gladwynne, Malvern, Wayne, Haverford and more. As a 6 time Best of Houzz winner, we look forward to working with you on your next project.

Beautiful transformation from a traditional style to a beautiful sleek warm environment. This luxury space is created by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in a Vanguard Plus Matte Classic Walnut. The interior drawer inserts are walnut. The back lit surrounds around the ovens and windows is LED backlit Onyx Slabs. The countertops in the kitchen Mystic Gold Quartz with the bar upper are Dekton Keranium Tech Collection with Legrand Adorne electrical outlets. Appliances: Miele 30” Truffle Brown Convection oven stacked with a combination Miele Steam and convection oven, Dishwasher is Gaggenau fully integrated automatic, Wine cooler, refrigerator and freezer is Thermador. Under counter refrigeration is U Line. The sinks are Blanco Solon Composite System. The ceiling mount hood is Futuro Skylight Series with the drop down ceiling finished in a walnut veneer. The tile in the pool table room is Bisazza Mosaic Tile with cabinetry by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same finishes as the kitchen. Flooring throughout the three living areas is Eleganza Porcelain Tile. The cabinetry in the adjoining family room is Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same wood as the other areas in the kitchen but with a High Gloss Walnut. The entertainment wall is Limestone Slab with Limestone Stack Stone. The Lime Stone Stack Stone also accents the pillars in the foyer and the entry to the game room. Speaker system throughout area is SONOS wireless home theatre system.

Beautiful transformation from a traditional style to a beautiful sleek warm environment. This luxury space is created by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in a Vanguard Plus Matte Classic Walnut. The interior drawer inserts are walnut. The back lit surrounds around the ovens and windows is LED backlit Onyx Slabs. The countertops in the kitchen Mystic Gold Quartz with the bar upper are Dekton Keranium Tech Collection with Legrand Adorne electrical outlets. Appliances: Miele 30” Truffle Brown Convection oven stacked with a combination Miele Steam and convection oven, Dishwasher is Gaggenau fully integrated automatic, Wine cooler, refrigerator and freezer is Thermador. Under counter refrigeration is U Line. The sinks are Blanco Solon Composite System. The ceiling mount hood is Futuro Skylight Series with the drop down ceiling finished in a walnut veneer. The tile in the pool table room is Bisazza Mosaic Tile with cabinetry by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same finishes as the kitchen. Flooring throughout the three living areas is Eleganza Porcelain Tile. The cabinetry in the adjoining family room is Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same wood as the other areas in the kitchen but with a High Gloss Walnut. The entertainment wall is Limestone Slab with Limestone Stack Stone. The Lime Stone Stack Stone also accents the pillars in the foyer and the entry to the game room. Speaker system throughout area is SONOS wireless home theatre system.

Trendy l-shaped porcelain tile eat-in kitchen photo in Boston with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, gray backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

lindamcmanusimages RUDLOFF Custom Builders, is a residential construction company that connects with clients early in the design phase to ensure every detail of your project is captured just as you imagined. RUDLOFF Custom Builders will create the project of your dreams that is executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsman, while creating lifetime client relationships that are build on trust and integrity. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area including West Chester, Gladwynne, Malvern, Wayne, Haverford and more. As a 6 time Best of Houzz winner, we look forward to working with you on your next project.

lindamcmanusimages RUDLOFF Custom Builders, is a residential construction company that connects with clients early in the design phase to ensure every detail of your project is captured just as you imagined. RUDLOFF Custom Builders will create the project of your dreams that is executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsman, while creating lifetime client relationships that are build on trust and integrity. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area including West Chester, Gladwynne, Malvern, Wayne, Haverford and more. As a 6 time Best of Houzz winner, we look forward to working with you on your next project.

lindamcmanusimages RUDLOFF Custom Builders, is a residential construction company that connects with clients early in the design phase to ensure every detail of your project is captured just as you imagined. RUDLOFF Custom Builders will create the project of your dreams that is executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsman, while creating lifetime client relationships that are build on trust and integrity. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area including West Chester, Gladwynne, Malvern, Wayne, Haverford and more. As a 6 time Best of Houzz winner, we look forward to working with you on your next project.

Beautiful transformation from a traditional style to a beautiful sleek warm environment. This luxury space is created by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in a Vanguard Plus Matte Classic Walnut. The interior drawer inserts are walnut. The back lit surrounds around the ovens and windows is LED backlit Onyx Slabs. The countertops in the kitchen Mystic Gold Quartz with the bar upper are Dekton Keranium Tech Collection with Legrand Adorne electrical outlets. Appliances: Miele 30” Truffle Brown Convection oven stacked with a combination Miele Steam and convection oven, Dishwasher is Gaggenau fully integrated automatic, Wine cooler, refrigerator and freezer is Thermador. Under counter refrigeration is U Line. The sinks are Blanco Solon Composite System. The ceiling mount hood is Futuro Skylight Series with the drop down ceiling finished in a walnut veneer. The tile in the pool table room is Bisazza Mosaic Tile with cabinetry by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same finishes as the kitchen. Flooring throughout the three living areas is Eleganza Porcelain Tile. The cabinetry in the adjoining family room is Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same wood as the other areas in the kitchen but with a High Gloss Walnut. The entertainment wall is Limestone Slab with Limestone Stack Stone. The Lime Stone Stack Stone also accents the pillars in the foyer and the entry to the game room. Speaker system throughout area is SONOS wireless home theatre system.

Beautiful transformation from a traditional style to a beautiful sleek warm environment. This luxury space is created by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in a Vanguard Plus Matte Classic Walnut. The interior drawer inserts are walnut. The back lit surrounds around the ovens and windows is LED backlit Onyx Slabs. The countertops in the kitchen Mystic Gold Quartz with the bar upper are Dekton Keranium Tech Collection with Legrand Adorne electrical outlets. Appliances: Miele 30” Truffle Brown Convection oven stacked with a combination Miele Steam and convection oven, Dishwasher is Gaggenau fully integrated automatic, Wine cooler, refrigerator and freezer is Thermador. Under counter refrigeration is U Line. The sinks are Blanco Solon Composite System. The ceiling mount hood is Futuro Skylight Series with the drop down ceiling finished in a walnut veneer. The tile in the pool table room is Bisazza Mosaic Tile with cabinetry by Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same finishes as the kitchen. Flooring throughout the three living areas is Eleganza Porcelain Tile. The cabinetry in the adjoining family room is Wood-Mode Custom Cabinetry in the same wood as the other areas in the kitchen but with a High Gloss Walnut. The entertainment wall is Limestone Slab with Limestone Stack Stone. The Lime Stone Stack Stone also accents the pillars in the foyer and the entry to the game room. Speaker system throughout area is SONOS wireless home theatre system.