For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

So after checking out online design sites like HOUZZ for examples of kitchen designs and researching the IKEA installation process, Justin decided that he needed IKD’s design services to make the kitchen work. “Since we were remodeling our kitchen, it was really important for us to have someone assist with design who understood the flow of kitchens: where to place appliances, common practice for counter space, etc. There’s an art to a well balanced and organized room, especially when it comes to kitchens,” he says. To that end, along with IKEA’s SEKTION cabinetry framework, Justin and his family selected IKEA VEDDINGE cabinetry in white along with IKEA MAXIMERA drawers, IKEA UTRUSTA door fronts and IKEA KASKER countertops in custom light gray with sleek concrete effect from Granite Expo. The kitchen also features a clever IKEA hack of concealed storage using the IKEA VEDDINGE cabinetry retrofitted to conceal a washer-dryer combo set. This creates a very clean, inviting look and establishes ample storage along the perimeter of the kitchen. This look is complemented by a Whirlpool Front-Control Built-in Tall Tub Dishwasher in Monochromatic Stainless-Steel; a GE 30” Electric Range with Self-Cleaning Convection Oven in Stainless Steel and LG French Door Refrigerator in Stainless Steel, as well as light wood flooring and ample natural lighting. And this was all accomplished within a budget of $20,000. Justin concludes: “We love how light and spacious the kitchen feels. We also love the soft close cabinets and pantry.”

Whether it is a simple reach in closet or the large walk in closet of your dreams, you are in good hands with Huntington closet. Our “On staff” designers will come to your home, listen to your needs, measure your space, and provide you with a unique design solution that suits you perfectly. In our own wood shop, we will custom make each part of your closet to fit your unique space. We do not use any “pre made- cookie cutter” closet kits. Plus, we only use materials made right here in North America. After your closest are custom made right here locally, our “on staff” installers will show up to your home, always on schedule, and install your custom designed, custom mades closet, leaving your home cleaner when we are finished, then the moment we arrived. With all we have to offer at Huntington Closet we are the only intelligent choice for all of your closet solutions. Overpriced closet franchise companies, based out of California or do-it-your-self box stores cannot deliver the value, service, and quality you will receive from The Huntington Closet Company.

Dovetail drawer, under drawer soft/self closing glides, and 5 piece drawer fronts. Seems simple, but requires strict attention to detail.
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless dark wood floor walk-in closet remodel in New York with raised-panel cabinets and light wood cabinets

This Master bathroom retreat features a spa like experience with a bathtub that has micro jets, tsbuo massage jetts, jaccuzzi jets, chromatherapy, aroma therapy, a heater and it is self cleaning. It does it all! The wet area also includes a shower system with a digital diverter that allows you to select your temperature and which section of body sprays you'd like to use or turn them all on with the rain head shower, for the full experiece. The feature tile is hand glazed and a variation of blues with a little sparkle. We used chrome accents in the plumbing selections, Schluter trim, and light fixtures to give the space a modern feel with clean lines. The vanity area has an LED medicine cabinet with lots of storage space and additional lighting on the interior part of the cabinet. The closet features tons of storage as well as two spectacular light fixtures.

Ladue Estates Master Suite & Hall Bathroom Creve Coeur, MO Designer: Rochelle McAvin Photographer: Karen Palmer Photography The color palette in this modern, elegant bathroom is dominated by a soothing blend of neutrals. Crisp whites, and subtle beige tones create a timeless and calming atmosphere. Accents of metallics, such as brushed gold add a touch of luxury. The vanity is a focal point featuring a natural stone countertop with veining that adds visual interest, with double sinks and white oak cabinets creating function and warmth. The floor features a marble mosaic with a polished finish, offering both durability and a touch of opulence. Heated floors provide comfort, especially on chilly mornings. The shower walls are adorned with organized zellige tile, in a neutral color that complements the flooring. Sleek, minimalist fixtures are a hallmark of this bathroom. Brushed brass faucets and showerheads, with clean lines and a high-quality finish, blend seamlessly with the overall design. The shower features a bench wrapped in quartz and niches for additional storage. Positioned near a large, frameless glass shower enclosure we have a freestanding soaking tub with a wall-mounted faucet. And introducing a touch of timeless sophistication to the soothing neutrals, our black modern-inspired light fixture adds a subtle yet striking contrast. Elevating the space with a hint of modern and elegance. Integrated LED lighting is used throughout the bathroom, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Recessed ceiling lights, vanity mirror lighting, and a sleek pendant over the toilet tie the elements together In summary, a modern, elegant bathroom combines clean lines, high-quality materials, and well-thought-out details to create a space that's not only functional but also a retreat of luxury and serenity. It's a haven for relaxation and self-care.

Custom designed reach in closet with self closing drawers, customer crown molding and a pull out laundry hamper.
Small gender-neutral carpeted reach-in closet photo in Grand Rapids with white cabinets

The Hudson Bed from Huppé is distinguished by a solid structure and inviting, plush headboard. The legs and frame of the bed are crafted from solid oak which has been shaped into visually interesting, angular forms. The headboard and bed are finished on all sides, so the bed may be placed anywhere in the room and viewed from any angle. As a true platform bed, there is no need to add a box spring. The Hudson Bed is available in your choice of platform style and in a variety of wood finishes and headboard upholstery colors. Shown with the Hudson Dresser and Nightstand, by Huppe.

A modern white master bathroom with a standing tub and a curbless shower is a testament to contemporary design and professionalism. This design concept combines sleek aesthetics, functionality, and accessibility while creating a serene and elegant space for relaxation and self-care. If you want, we can provide a brief overview of the key design elements and features that make this bathroom a symbol of modern sophistication and professionalism.

He explains: “Our home was constructed in 1915 and the last remodel was done in the late 1960s. We were looking to update the design and make the kitchen more function and modern. We needed more counterspace, more storage space, and better placement of appliances to make the kitchen easier to use” he says. “Before the remodel, most of our pots and pans were in an unlit blind corner cabinet, which meant that it was almost impossible to find the pot we needed!” To remedy this, William chose IKEA BODBYN doors and drawer fronts in off-white — including some glass fronts —to fit with IKEA’s SEKTION cabinetry framework. Notably, he installed the cabinets and did the rest of the kitchen work himself. However, he wasn’t entirely without design assistance. That is where IKD’s design team came in. He explains: “My wife and I knew the basics of what IKEA styles we wanted for our kitchen, but also knew that we wanted to reconfigure our kitchen to make it more functional. IKD offered us a simple way to get a professional design that we could use for our kitchen, without having to pay an in-person designer (and likely get stuck with a contractor). Plus, I was pleased by some of the other kitchens that I saw that IKD had designed.” To that end, the kitchen is complemented by an array of IKEA appliances as well, including the IKEA NUTID French Door Refrigerator (Freezer Bottom) with Dispenser; the IKEA NUTID Self-Cleaning Convection Oven; the IKEA NUTID Built-In Microwave; IKEA FRAMTID five-burner stovetop, as well as a Whirlpool dishwasher. And it was all achieved within a budget of $15k-$18k, he adds. William concludes: “With the new kitchen, pots and pans are stored directly below the cooktop, spices next to the cooking area, storage bins next to the fridge, dinnerware above the dishwasher and sink. Everything is now near the places where it is used and the IKEA drawers make access much easier.” Let’s see how William’s kitchen came together!

A Thoughtful Condo Makeover for a Young Chef in the Making This project began with a middle-aged couple looking to refresh their one-bedroom condo for their young adult son. The unit had been a rental for years and wasn’t well-suited to his needs. The kitchen had an awkward, oversized island, the closets lacked functionality, and the overall look was outdated—cream walls, mismatched narrow flooring, and beige tiles throughout. The bathroom also needed serious attention, with grimy, moldy finishes. After a tough renovation experience years ago in their other home, the family knew they needed someone they could trust. Having worked with Andrei before, they turned to Sosna with full confidence. While the general layout remained similar, some key changes made a big impact. The oversized island was replaced with a peninsula, which opened up the space and provided extra storage and a longer counter surface. New custom closet organizers were designed specifically around the son's lifestyle, and the bedroom closet got a set of new doors. We also replaced all of the flooring, using medium-gray porcelain tiles in the foyer and kitchen, and light wood-look vinyl in the living areas and bedroom. To ensure a smooth transition between materials, we used self-leveling compound to keep everything even. Despite working around holiday delivery schedules and condo board renovation policies, the project stayed on track and was completed on time. The result is a fresh, Japandi-inspired home that’s both stylish and functional. The kitchen features light wood cabinetry, leathered quartz countertops, a large-format tile backsplash, and matte black accents that bring it all together. A single-bowl sink now easily accommodates a Dutch oven, and the thoughtful closet design gives the son plenty of organized storage space. Fresh paint and updated finishes create a calming, cohesive atmosphere. One memorable part of the process was helping the family work through design decisions together. As close as they are, they had different tastes and sometimes struggled to align. With clear guidance, we helped them move forward with confidence and find solutions they all loved. Now, their son has a space that reflects his personality and passions—and the family has peace of mind knowing it was done right.

Ladue Estates Master Suite & Hall Bathroom Creve Coeur, MO Designer: Rochelle McAvin Photographer: Karen Palmer Photography The color palette in this modern, elegant bathroom is dominated by a soothing blend of neutrals. Crisp whites, and subtle beige tones create a timeless and calming atmosphere. Accents of metallics, such as brushed gold add a touch of luxury. The vanity is a focal point featuring a natural stone countertop with veining that adds visual interest, with double sinks and white oak cabinets creating function and warmth. The floor features a marble mosaic with a polished finish, offering both durability and a touch of opulence. Heated floors provide comfort, especially on chilly mornings. The shower walls are adorned with organized zellige tile, in a neutral color that complements the flooring. Sleek, minimalist fixtures are a hallmark of this bathroom. Brushed brass faucets and showerheads, with clean lines and a high-quality finish, blend seamlessly with the overall design. The shower features a bench wrapped in quartz and niches for additional storage. Positioned near a large, frameless glass shower enclosure we have a freestanding soaking tub with a wall-mounted faucet. And introducing a touch of timeless sophistication to the soothing neutrals, our black modern-inspired light fixture adds a subtle yet striking contrast. Elevating the space with a hint of modern and elegance. Integrated LED lighting is used throughout the bathroom, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Recessed ceiling lights, vanity mirror lighting, and a sleek pendant over the toilet tie the elements together In summary, a modern, elegant bathroom combines clean lines, high-quality materials, and well-thought-out details to create a space that's not only functional but also a retreat of luxury and serenity. It's a haven for relaxation and self-care.

This Master bathroom retreat features a spa like experience with a bathtub that has micro jets, tsbuo massage jetts, jaccuzzi jets, chromatherapy, aroma therapy, a heater and it is self cleaning. It does it all! The wet area also includes a shower system with a digital diverter that allows you to select your temperature and which section of body sprays you'd like to use or turn them all on with the rain head shower, for the full experiece. The feature tile is hand glazed and a variation of blues with a little sparkle. We used chrome accents in the plumbing selections, Schluter trim, and light fixtures to give the space a modern feel with clean lines. The vanity area has an LED medicine cabinet with lots of storage space and additional lighting on the interior part of the cabinet. The closet features tons of storage as well as two spectacular light fixtures.

Whether it is a simple reach in closet or the large walk in closet of your dreams, you are in good hands with Huntington closet. Our “On staff” designers will come to your home, listen to your needs, measure your space, and provide you with a unique design solution that suits you perfectly. In our own wood shop, we will custom make each part of your closet to fit your unique space. We do not use any “pre made- cookie cutter” closet kits. Plus, we only use materials made right here in North America. After your closest are custom made right here locally, our “on staff” installers will show up to your home, always on schedule, and install your custom designed, custom mades closet, leaving your home cleaner when we are finished, then the moment we arrived. With all we have to offer at Huntington Closet we are the only intelligent choice for all of your closet solutions. Overpriced closet franchise companies, based out of California or do-it-your-self box stores cannot deliver the value, service, and quality you will receive from The Huntington Closet Company.

Self contained wine storage closet Glass Doors.
Inspiration for a small craftsman home design remodel in Atlanta

A Thoughtful Condo Makeover for a Young Chef in the Making This project began with a middle-aged couple looking to refresh their one-bedroom condo for their young adult son. The unit had been a rental for years and wasn’t well-suited to his needs. The kitchen had an awkward, oversized island, the closets lacked functionality, and the overall look was outdated—cream walls, mismatched narrow flooring, and beige tiles throughout. The bathroom also needed serious attention, with grimy, moldy finishes. After a tough renovation experience years ago in their other home, the family knew they needed someone they could trust. Having worked with Andrei before, they turned to Sosna with full confidence. While the general layout remained similar, some key changes made a big impact. The oversized island was replaced with a peninsula, which opened up the space and provided extra storage and a longer counter surface. New custom closet organizers were designed specifically around the son's lifestyle, and the bedroom closet got a set of new doors. We also replaced all of the flooring, using medium-gray porcelain tiles in the foyer and kitchen, and light wood-look vinyl in the living areas and bedroom. To ensure a smooth transition between materials, we used self-leveling compound to keep everything even. Despite working around holiday delivery schedules and condo board renovation policies, the project stayed on track and was completed on time. The result is a fresh, Japandi-inspired home that’s both stylish and functional. The kitchen features light wood cabinetry, leathered quartz countertops, a large-format tile backsplash, and matte black accents that bring it all together. A single-bowl sink now easily accommodates a Dutch oven, and the thoughtful closet design gives the son plenty of organized storage space. Fresh paint and updated finishes create a calming, cohesive atmosphere. One memorable part of the process was helping the family work through design decisions together. As close as they are, they had different tastes and sometimes struggled to align. With clear guidance, we helped them move forward with confidence and find solutions they all loved. Now, their son has a space that reflects his personality and passions—and the family has peace of mind knowing it was done right.

3 self-closing drawers/2 self-closing doors in white multi-coat lacquer finish Doors reveal two storage compartments, each with an adjustable shelf Non-marking leveler feet can be adjusted for stability on uneven floor surfaces Water-based, clear coat finish Finished back panel allows the unit to be used as a space divider CARB (California Air Resources Board) Phase II compliant Manufactured By GUS.

Since this photo, we did add a navy window seat with self piping to make sitting along the window more inviting.
Large elegant open concept medium tone wood floor and brown floor family room photo in Los Angeles with blue walls, a standard fireplace, a wood fireplace surround and a wall-mounted tv

A modern white master bathroom with a standing tub and a curbless shower is a testament to contemporary design and professionalism. This design concept combines sleek aesthetics, functionality, and accessibility while creating a serene and elegant space for relaxation and self-care. If you want, we can provide a brief overview of the key design elements and features that make this bathroom a symbol of modern sophistication and professionalism.