Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

The best of past and present architectural styles combine in this welcoming, farmhouse-inspired design. Clad in low-maintenance siding, the distinctive exterior has plenty of street appeal, with its columned porch, multiple gables, shutters and interesting roof lines. Other exterior highlights included trusses over the garage doors, horizontal lap siding and brick and stone accents. The interior is equally impressive, with an open floor plan that accommodates today’s family and modern lifestyles. An eight-foot covered porch leads into a large foyer and a powder room. Beyond, the spacious first floor includes more than 2,000 square feet, with one side dominated by public spaces that include a large open living room, centrally located kitchen with a large island that seats six and a u-shaped counter plan, formal dining area that seats eight for holidays and special occasions and a convenient laundry and mud room. The left side of the floor plan contains the serene master suite, with an oversized master bath, large walk-in closet and 16 by 18-foot master bedroom that includes a large picture window that lets in maximum light and is perfect for capturing nearby views. Relax with a cup of morning coffee or an evening cocktail on the nearby covered patio, which can be accessed from both the living room and the master bedroom. Upstairs, an additional 900 square feet includes two 11 by 14-foot upper bedrooms with bath and closet and a an approximately 700 square foot guest suite over the garage that includes a relaxing sitting area, galley kitchen and bath, perfect for guests or in-laws.

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Hi, I’m the team behind Nursery Wallpaper Installation in Boston, MA, your trusted specialists for high-end, child-friendly wallcovering solutions. Installing wallpaper in a baby’s nursery or child’s bedroom requires precise pattern alignment, seamless corner fitting around windows and cribs, and non-toxic, secure application techniques. Whether you are creating a cozy feature wall for a historic Boston brownstone or designing a playful modern nursery, we deliver top-quality nursery wallpaper installation that elevates your space with charm and care. As an experienced wallpaper installer team, we handle a wide range of materials—including eco-friendly papers, peel-and-stick murals, delicate fabrics, natural grasscloth, and washable vinyls. Our detailed process covers thorough wall smoothing, specialized low-VOC surface priming, laser-plumb alignment, and exact pattern matching across custom murals. As a dedicated wallpaper hanger, we execute every project with absolute precision, ensuring tight seams, crisp edges, and a flawless, bubble-free finish. Contact us today to discuss your Boston nursery wallpaper project!

Hi, I’m the team behind Nursery Wallpaper Installation in Boston, MA, your trusted specialists for high-end, child-friendly wallcovering solutions. Installing wallpaper in a baby’s nursery or child’s bedroom requires precise pattern alignment, seamless corner fitting around windows and cribs, and non-toxic, secure application techniques. Whether you are creating a cozy feature wall for a historic Boston brownstone or designing a playful modern nursery, we deliver top-quality nursery wallpaper installation that elevates your space with charm and care. As an experienced wallpaper installer team, we handle a wide range of materials—including eco-friendly papers, peel-and-stick murals, delicate fabrics, natural grasscloth, and washable vinyls. Our detailed process covers thorough wall smoothing, specialized low-VOC surface priming, laser-plumb alignment, and exact pattern matching across custom murals. As a dedicated wallpaper hanger, we execute every project with absolute precision, ensuring tight seams, crisp edges, and a flawless, bubble-free finish. Contact us today to discuss your Boston nursery wallpaper project!

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Hi, I’m the team behind Nursery Wallpaper Installation in Boston, MA, your trusted specialists for high-end, child-friendly wallcovering solutions. Installing wallpaper in a baby’s nursery or child’s bedroom requires precise pattern alignment, seamless corner fitting around windows and cribs, and non-toxic, secure application techniques. Whether you are creating a cozy feature wall for a historic Boston brownstone or designing a playful modern nursery, we deliver top-quality nursery wallpaper installation that elevates your space with charm and care. As an experienced wallpaper installer team, we handle a wide range of materials—including eco-friendly papers, peel-and-stick murals, delicate fabrics, natural grasscloth, and washable vinyls. Our detailed process covers thorough wall smoothing, specialized low-VOC surface priming, laser-plumb alignment, and exact pattern matching across custom murals. As a dedicated wallpaper hanger, we execute every project with absolute precision, ensuring tight seams, crisp edges, and a flawless, bubble-free finish. Contact us today to discuss your Boston nursery wallpaper project!

Hi, I’m the team behind Nursery Wallpaper Installation in Boston, MA, your trusted specialists for high-end, child-friendly wallcovering solutions. Installing wallpaper in a baby’s nursery or child’s bedroom requires precise pattern alignment, seamless corner fitting around windows and cribs, and non-toxic, secure application techniques. Whether you are creating a cozy feature wall for a historic Boston brownstone or designing a playful modern nursery, we deliver top-quality nursery wallpaper installation that elevates your space with charm and care. As an experienced wallpaper installer team, we handle a wide range of materials—including eco-friendly papers, peel-and-stick murals, delicate fabrics, natural grasscloth, and washable vinyls. Our detailed process covers thorough wall smoothing, specialized low-VOC surface priming, laser-plumb alignment, and exact pattern matching across custom murals. As a dedicated wallpaper hanger, we execute every project with absolute precision, ensuring tight seams, crisp edges, and a flawless, bubble-free finish. Contact us today to discuss your Boston nursery wallpaper project!

Spectacular unobstructed views of the Bay, Bridge, Alcatraz, San Francisco skyline and the rolling hills of Marin greet you from almost every window of this stunning Provençal Villa located in the acclaimed Middle Ridge neighborhood of Mill Valley. Built in 2000, this exclusive 5 bedroom, 5+ bath estate was thoughtfully designed by architect Jorge de Quesada to provide a classically elegant backdrop for today’s active lifestyle. Perfectly positioned on over half an acre with flat lawns and an award winning garden there is unmatched sense of privacy just minutes from the shops and restaurants of downtown Mill Valley. A curved stone staircase leads from the charming entry gate to the private front lawn and on to the grand hand carved front door. A gracious formal entry and wide hall opens out to the main living spaces of the home and out to the view beyond. The Venetian plaster walls and soaring ceilings provide an open airy feeling to the living room and country chef’s kitchen, while three sets of oversized French doors lead onto the Jerusalem Limestone patios and bring in the panoramic views. The chef’s kitchen is the focal point of the warm welcoming great room and features a range-top and double wall ovens, two dishwashers, marble counters and sinks with Waterworks fixtures. The tile backsplash behind the range pays homage to Monet’s Giverny kitchen. A fireplace offers up a cozy sitting area to lounge and watch television or curl up with a book. There is ample space for a farm table for casual dining. In addition to a well-appointed formal living room, the main level of this estate includes an office, stunning library/den with faux tortoise detailing, butler’s pantry, powder room, and a wonderful indoor/outdoor flow allowing the spectacular setting to envelop every space. A wide staircase leads up to the four main bedrooms of home. There is a spacious master suite complete with private balcony and French doors showcasing the views. The suite features his and her baths complete with walk – in closets, and steam showers. In hers there is a sumptuous soaking tub positioned to make the most of the view. Two additional bedrooms share a bath while the third is en-suite. The laundry room features a second set of stairs leading back to the butler’s pantry, garage and outdoor areas. The lowest level of the home includes a legal second unit complete with kitchen, spacious walk in closet, private entry and patio area. In addition to interior access to the second unit there is a spacious exercise room, the potential for a poolside kitchenette, second laundry room, and secure storage area primed to become a state of the art tasting room/wine cellar. From the main level the spacious entertaining patio leads you out to the magnificent grounds and pool area. Designed by Steve Stucky, the gardens were featured on the 2007 Mill Valley Outdoor Art Club tour. A level lawn leads to the focal point of the grounds; the iconic “Crags Head” outcropping favored by hikers as far back as the 19th century. The perfect place to stop for lunch and take in the spectacular view. The Century old Sonoma Olive trees and lavender plantings add a Mediterranean touch to the two lawn areas that also include an antique fountain, and a charming custom Barbara Butler playhouse. Inspired by Provence and built to exacting standards this charming villa provides an elegant yet welcoming environment designed to meet the needs of today’s active lifestyle while staying true to its Continental roots creating a warm and inviting space ready to call home.

THEME This room is dedicated to supporting and encouraging the young artist in art and music. From the hand-painted instruments decorating the music corner to the dedicated foldaway art table, every space is tailored to the creative spirit, offering a place to be inspired, a nook to relax or a corner to practice. This environment radiates energy from the ground up, showering the room in natural, vibrant color. FOCUS A majestic, floor-to-ceiling tree anchors the space, boldly transporting the beauty of nature into the house--along with the fun of swinging from a tree branch, pitching a tent or reading under the beautiful canopy. The tree shares pride of place with a unique, retroinspired room divider housing a colorful padded nook perfect for reading, watching television or just relaxing. STORAGE Multiple storage options are integrated to accommodate the family’s eclectic interests and varied needs. From hidden cabinets in the floor to movable shelves and storage bins, there is room for everything. The two wardrobes provide generous storage capacity without taking up valuable floor space, and readily open up to sweep toys out of sight. The myWall® panels accommodate various shelving options and bins that can all be repositioned as needed. Additional storage and display options are strategically provided around the room to store sheet music or display art projects on any of three magnetic panels. GROWTH While the young artist experiments with media or music, he can also adapt this space to complement his experiences. The myWall® panels promote easy transformation and expansion, offer unlimited options, and keep shelving at an optimum height as he grows. All the furniture rolls on casters so the room can sustain the action during a play date or be completely re-imagined if the family wants a makeover. SAFETY The elements in this large open space are all designed to enfold a young boy in a playful, creative and safe place. The modular components on the myWall® panels are all locked securely in place no matter what they store. The custom drop-down table includes two safety latches to prevent unintentional opening. The floor drop doors are all equipped with slow glide closing hinges so no fingers will be trapped.

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Every Iron & Wood Gate from First Impression Ironworks is designed to provide security and beauty to your home, and is always custom built to your home’s specifications. Each gate is made in Arizona from the highest quality materials sourced here in the U.S.A., using only 100% American steel. Each Iron Gate is crafted from the most robust steel and gate posts available, as well as a standard 10” steel latch and lock guard, name brand Kwikset or Schlage hardware is always included, and customization is available for whatever needs fit your home best. Our product line includes a customizable array of steel plate gates, iron and wood gates, wrought iron and glass, or timeless iron and redwood gates. You can choose your Iron Gate from a variety of styles such as Contemporary, Traditional and Tuscan, and with additional options such as arches or digital locks. Our design consultants are here to help – let us know how we can create a one-of-a-kind Iron Gate for your home today!

Photography: Lepere Studio
Alcove bathtub - small contemporary master blue tile porcelain tile alcove bathtub idea in Santa Barbara

Small asian brown one-story wood exterior home photo in Portland

When Cummings Architects first met with the owners of this understated country farmhouse, the building’s layout and design was an incoherent jumble. The original bones of the building were almost unrecognizable. All of the original windows, doors, flooring, and trims – even the country kitchen – had been removed. Mathew and his team began a thorough design discovery process to find the design solution that would enable them to breathe life back into the old farmhouse in a way that acknowledged the building’s venerable history while also providing for a modern living by a growing family. The redesign included the addition of a new eat-in kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, wrap around porch, and stone fireplaces. To begin the transforming restoration, the team designed a generous, twenty-four square foot kitchen addition with custom, farmers-style cabinetry and timber framing. The team walked the homeowners through each detail the cabinetry layout, materials, and finishes. Salvaged materials were used and authentic craftsmanship lent a sense of place and history to the fabric of the space. The new master suite included a cathedral ceiling showcasing beautifully worn salvaged timbers. The team continued with the farm theme, using sliding barn doors to separate the custom-designed master bath and closet. The new second-floor hallway features a bold, red floor while new transoms in each bedroom let in plenty of light. A summer stair, detailed and crafted with authentic details, was added for additional access and charm. Finally, a welcoming farmer’s porch wraps around the side entry, connecting to the rear yard via a gracefully engineered grade. This large outdoor space provides seating for large groups of people to visit and dine next to the beautiful outdoor landscape and the new exterior stone fireplace. Though it had temporarily lost its identity, with the help of the team at Cummings Architects, this lovely farmhouse has regained not only its former charm but also a new life through beautifully integrated modern features designed for today’s family. Photo by Eric Roth