Sentinel stretches across the brow of a winding grade break high above the Napa Valley. This seasonal residence was conceived as an agrarian compound which draws inspiration from its agricultural roots and takes a leap forward in innovative construction and a modern expression of timber and steel craft. A gently curving gravel drive circuits the lower end of the vineyard, announcing the arrival on the property. The drive slowly straightens to align with the vineyard rows to the North and the long axis of the residential structures to the South. Three gable-end barn forms follow the ordered lines of the vineyard to one side, and on the other, hug the rock-lined edge of the forest. Flanked by main residence and guest residence on either side, the taller, middle barn structure steps back from the forest to form a broad terrace. An elegant trellised colonnade threads through the three buildings, providing shade and dappled light to the terrace – a private place for food and wine to be enjoyed overlooking the magnificent valley below.

Custom made tieback
Elegant dining room photo in Miami

Just a small portion of this changing room with cabinet lighting.
Example of a transitional closet design in Miami

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

Plain Jane Photography
Example of a huge mountain style u-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen design in Phoenix with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, distressed cabinets, soapstone countertops, red backsplash, glass tile backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

Inspiration for a large 1960s medium tone wood floor and beige floor study room remodel in Providence with blue walls and no fireplace

Anita Roll Fun nursery I painted for Kyle and Kelly Zorn. They will add the clock hands later with the birth time.

Jeff Gilman Woodworking Inc. Custom Oak door with aluminum acent.

A Plus Gutter Systems Inc.
Example of a minimalist home design design in Los Angeles

3% Screen Motorized Roller Shades installed at high-end condo in San Diego
Inspiration for a modern living room remodel in San Diego

Mid-sized transitional master dark wood floor bedroom photo in New York with purple walls and no fireplace

Mark Rummel
Example of a transitional home design design in Oklahoma City

Bianco Canvas HanStone Quartz
Example of a trendy home design design in Atlanta

Trendy home design photo in Miami

Example of a small minimalist wooden l-shaped metal railing staircase design with wooden risers

Patio - mid-sized traditional backyard stamped concrete patio idea

Example of a trendy home theater design in Las Vegas

This 5,500-square-foot Tuscan estate in Grand Islands at Seven Oaks, Bakersfield, features natural stone, exposed wood beams, wrought iron, and richly textured finishes. A central courtyard with a fountain, wine room, outdoor kitchen, resort-style pool and spa, and connected entertaining spaces support relaxed California indoor-outdoor living while preserving the warmth, craftsmanship, and architectural character of a traditional Tuscan villa.