Bluewater Apartments is a luxurious 7 level beachfront residential complex consisting of 12 apartments including a couple of 2 level penthouses. Consisting of a single basement and a podium with three separate pools, each three bedroom apartment has a master bedroom, second ensuite, main bathroom, study, and separate powder room and laundry. The complex commands a majestic ocean vista on the magnificent Gold Coasts’ Golden Mile.

This mixed use building in the West Village was purchased by a California couple as an investment with the vision to remove the office cubicals occupying the first floor and cellar, converting the square footage to a duplex home for themselves that enabled them to be bicoastal. The design of the first floor is a modern open concept where areas devoted to dining, cooking and living are all merged in the front of the street level space. To give this area privacy LED film was installed over the large street facing window that can be activated to block all view while still letting in light. The bedroom is in the more private rear of the space overlooking a small courtyard and is separated from the front space by the units bathroom. In the bedroom a folding glass wall can be opened completely to fully connect the space with the outdoor courtyard. This connection with the outdoor space continues in the adjacent bathroom with a floor to ceiling window located inside the shower. The bathroom has a unique open plan design. A huge rain shower head hovers over a large unenclosed shower that is separated from the main circulation space to the bedroom by a mother of pearl clad partition. The partition features a bench inside the shower and a custom oak vanity on the opposite side. The space in the cellar was fully finished to act as an overflow space for recreation and for guests visits. The overall space has a minimal aesthetic warmed up with the selection of finishes such as wide plank oak flooring, oak cabinetry, mother of pearl mosaic tile and playful touches such as neon lighting in the cellar.

Light and color are in the limelight of this young couple’s home design. Accent colors and wall design create a modern feel, while custom furniture provide multifunctional spaces and separates different areas of the home. Lighting design played a key role in creating the right mood and adjusting the ambiance of bedroom and bathroom spaces.

Studioteka was asked to transform a dark, and very dated kitchen and dining area for a professional couple residing in New York’s sought after Riverdale neighborhood, just a stone’s throw from Van Cortlandt Park. The couple like to cook and entertain, and wanted a space where they’d be able to host dinner parties that could also spill onto their beautiful back deck and yard. The design team removed the old kitchen cabinets and the wall which had previously separated both spaces, allowing for the creation of an oversized island that also contained cabinetry and space for a breakfast bar. Old ductwork which had been contained in the wall was rerouted, and cleverly hidden within the new island’s custom drawers and cabinetry. The gas range was relocated to the far wall, and the dishwasher was moved from the window side to the island side of the kitchen, allowing for a better kitchen workflow. New recessed and pendant lighting illuminate the space, and highlight the island. The Brazilian Bajkal Quartzite countertops provide a light contrast to the dark wood of the cabinetry below, while white subway tile and cabinets above provide openness, making the space appear larger and light filled. The kitchen window and French doors leading to the outdoor space in back were replaced, and side lights were added around the door, allowing for the creation of a new and light filled and beautiful entertainment space in the home.

Light and color are in the limelight of this young couple’s home design. Accent colors and wall design create a modern feel, while custom furniture provide multifunctional spaces and separates different areas of the home. Lighting design played a key role in creating the right mood and adjusting the ambiance of bedroom and bathroom spaces.

Our clients wanted to utilize this particular area of their home and really give it a function. It has been many things over the years: bonus room, dining area, etc. The kitchen is the natural gathering spot. They wanted to create a space that was an extension of the kitchen for entertaining and serving family and friends. Architect, Cynthia Karegeannes was hired to draw up plans for a mudroom to corral the couple’s two dogs and stash the pet’s leashes, treats, etc. A large butler pantry was imagined with a full size refrigerator, prep sink, dishwasher and custom cabinetry to have items handy for entertaining. Innovative Construction, helped finalize the details and implemented the plans for the new addition. Interior Designer, Beth Weltlich with The House Dressing worked with homeowners, to select materials and finishes to unify the areas of the existing kitchen and the new spaces. A custom banquette was created with room under the staircase so that all of the space could be utilized. Furniture and accessories are still in the works as the homeowners let the area evolve to see exactly what their needs are. A collaborative effort-for sure! The challenges included creating three separate areas (mudroom, banquette and butler pantry) with storage and versatility in one existing space. Having this additional space that was not always utilized, the homeowners feel the new addition will become an integral part of the families' living area.

This Guest Bathroom was previously a garage! We turned the entire area into a separate home for a couple’s daughter and her growing family. Light-colored wallpaper, whites, and neutral tones make it hard to believe it’s in a Basement with no natural light!

Photo: Rachel Loewen © 2017 Houzz
Living room - 1950s living room idea in Chicago

Our clients wanted to utilize this particular area of their home and really give it a function. It has been many things over the years: bonus room, dining area, etc. The kitchen is the natural gathering spot. They wanted to create a space that was an extension of the kitchen for entertaining and serving family and friends. Architect, Cynthia Karegeannes was hired to draw up plans for a mudroom to corral the couple’s two dogs and stash the pet’s leashes, treats, etc. A large butler pantry was imagined with a full size refrigerator, prep sink, dishwasher and custom cabinetry to have items handy for entertaining. Innovative Construction, helped finalize the details and implemented the plans for the new addition. Interior Designer, Beth Weltlich with The House Dressing worked with homeowners, to select materials and finishes to unify the areas of the existing kitchen and the new spaces. A custom banquette was created with room under the staircase so that all of the space could be utilized. Furniture and accessories are still in the works as the homeowners let the area evolve to see exactly what their needs are. A collaborative effort-for sure! The challenges included creating three separate areas (mudroom, banquette and butler pantry) with storage and versatility in one existing space. Having this additional space that was not always utilized, the homeowners feel the new addition will become an integral part of the families' living area.

For this project, we transformed the top floor of a Park Slope brownstone into a modern, lightfilled home tailored to the needs of a busy couple. The original space was outdated and lacked cohesion, so our design focused on creating a harmonious and functional layout that reflects the clients’ lifestyle while introducing moments of drama and creativity. At the heart of the penthouse is an open-concept dining room, living room, and kitchen. The living room accommodates multiple areas, including a cozy seating nook illuminated by multicolored glass pendant lights. A dramatic custom-built feature spans the entire length of the living room, integrating storage, display areas, and a unique guardwall that separates the staircase to the couple's rooftop garden from the living space. This built-in showcases a dynamic geometric design, with select sections backed in soft mauve for depth and visual interest. Along the front of the space, a bespoke oak window seat with modern slatted wood fronts conceals the AC and radiators while providing ample storage. The main seating area centers around a creamy marble fireplace surround, a refined focal point in the living area. Wide-plank oak flooring extends throughout the apartment and up the staircase, where a minimal aesthetic enhances the clean, modern feel. The kitchen continues the theme of modern sophistication with a palette of soft white lacquered lower cabinets and oak upper cabinetry. The countertops and backsplash are crafted from a striking quartzite in cream, peach, and mauve tones, adding a subtle vibrancy to the space. A cream-enameled range takes center stage, complemented by a hidden coffee station and a dedicated cabinet for AV supplies, ensuring a clutter-free aesthetic. The hall guest bathroom is a playful yet refined mix of materials and textures. Peach-toned concrete tiles cover the walls, while the floor features cream zellige tiles. Brass fixtures, a brass mirror, and a brass wall sconce lend a touch of warmth and luxury, harmonizing with the custom pecan-veneered vanity and custom concrete sink, The primary bedroom suite is a serene retreat, painted in a rich, deep blue that sets a calming tone. Accessed through a bespoke millwork closet, the ensuite bathroom is a small yet striking space, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship. The rear wall of the shower is clad in floor-toceiling slabs of light blue quartzite, creating a dramatic focal point visible from the bedroom. This quartzite extends seamlessly to form a sculptural bench within the shower, which transitions outward into a custom sink. Beneath the sink, two wood drawers provide discreet storage. The remaining walls are finished in soft beige Moroccan tadelakt plaster, adding a warm contrast to the cool tones of the quartzite. This Park Slope penthouse is a carefully curated blend of modern elegance and thoughtful functionality, with bespoke details and rich materiality that celebrate both the character of the space and the needs of its owners.

This condo in Sterling, VA belongs to a couple about to enter into retirement. They own this home in Sterling, along with a weekend home in West Virginia, a vacation home on Emerald Isle in North Carolina and a vacation home in St. John. They want to use this home as their "home-base" during their retirement, when they need to be in the metro area for business or to see family. The condo is small and they felt it was too "choppy," it didn't have good flow and the rooms were too separated and confined. They wondered if it could have more of an open concept feel but were doubtful due to the size and layout of the home. The furnishings they owned from their previous home were very traditional and heavy. They wanted a much lighter, more open and more contemporary feel to this home. They wanted it to feel clean, light, airy and much bigger then it is. The first thing we tackled was an unsightly, and very heavy stone veneered fireplace wall that separated the family room from the office space. It made both rooms look heavy and dark. We took down the stone and opened up parts of the wall so that the two spaces would flow into each other. We added a view thru fireplace and gave the fireplace wall a faux marble finish to lighten it and make it much more contemporary. Glass shelves bounce light and keep the wall feeling light and streamlined. Custom built ins add hidden storage and make great use of space in these small rooms. Our strategy was to open as much as possible and to lighten the space through the use of color, fabric and glass. New furnishings in lighter colors and soft textures help keep the feeling light and modernize the space. Sheer linen draperies soften the hard lines and add to the light, airy feel. Tinius Photography

This basement remodel held special significance for an expectant young couple eager to adapt their home for a growing family. Facing the challenge of an open layout that lacked functionality, our team delivered a complete transformation. The project's scope involved reframing the layout of the entire basement, installing plumbing for a new bathroom, modifying the stairs for code compliance, and adding an egress window to create a livable bedroom. The redesigned space now features a guest bedroom, a fully finished bathroom, a cozy living room, a practical laundry area, and private, separate office spaces. The primary objective was to create a harmonious, open flow while ensuring privacy—a vital aspect for the couple. The final result respects the original character of the house, while enhancing functionality for the evolving needs of the homeowners expanding family.

This basement remodel held special significance for an expectant young couple eager to adapt their home for a growing family. Facing the challenge of an open layout that lacked functionality, our team delivered a complete transformation. The project's scope involved reframing the layout of the entire basement, installing plumbing for a new bathroom, modifying the stairs for code compliance, and adding an egress window to create a livable bedroom. The redesigned space now features a guest bedroom, a fully finished bathroom, a cozy living room, a practical laundry area, and private, separate office spaces. The primary objective was to create a harmonious, open flow while ensuring privacy—a vital aspect for the couple. The final result respects the original character of the house, while enhancing functionality for the evolving needs of the homeowners expanding family.

Thick slabs of sand-textured granite and quarter-sawn white oak cabinets, equipped with special compartments for things such as cutting boards and plastic container lids, replaced old, sun-exposed cabinetry. A major transformation happened when the the low-height partition, separating the family room and kitchen was knocked down to allow in more light and warmth from the west-facing windows. The placement of the stovetop was adjusted to assist the left-handed couple, and a large 4-foot by 8-foot backing counter was added for the girls. SZ made 'homes' for everything in the kitchen, from a state-of-the-art Miele integrated coffee station for Cameron to special cabinets for the Dean & Deluca spices that Linda likes to use. To accommodate Linda's petite stature, the countertops were set at a lower height. SZ even designed cereal-box-specific cabinets to ensure that everything would fit just right. Low-voltage strip lighting, operated with dimmers, borders every glass cabinet and spotlights the couple's funky '60s-inspired Jill Rosenwald ceramic serving pieces and a favorite clay sculpture entitled Love Entwined that they bought in Paris. Today, the kitchen is almost unrecognizable from its former self. A dramatic evolution from stark and imposing to bright and spacious the clean lines and warm tones still give the family-functional space a grown-up edge. "if we're not hosting a charity event or inviting a group of 20 kindergartners over for a party, you'll still find all of us int the kitchen," says Linda. "Except how it feels right. The kitchen has our personalities stamped all over it." Not to mention a few handprints from three little girls.'

This condo in Sterling, VA belongs to a couple about to enter into retirement. They own this home in Sterling, along with a weekend home in West Virginia, a vacation home on Emerald Isle in North Carolina and a vacation home in St. John. They want to use this home as their "home-base" during their retirement, when they need to be in the metro area for business or to see family. The condo is small and they felt it was too "choppy," it didn't have good flow and the rooms were too separated and confined. They wondered if it could have more of an open concept feel but were doubtful due to the size and layout of the home. The furnishings they owned from their previous home were very traditional and heavy. They wanted a much lighter, more open and more contemporary feel to this home. They wanted it to feel clean, light, airy and much bigger then it is. The first thing we tackled was an unsightly, and very heavy stone veneered fireplace wall that separated the family room from the office space. It made both rooms look heavy and dark. We took down the stone and opened up parts of the wall so that the two spaces would flow into each other. We added a view thru fireplace and gave the fireplace wall a faux marble finish to lighten it and make it much more contemporary. Glass shelves bounce light and keep the wall feeling light and streamlined. Custom built ins add hidden storage and make great use of space in these small rooms. Our strategy was to open as much as possible and to lighten the space through the use of color, fabric and glass. New furnishings in lighter colors and soft textures help keep the feeling light and modernize the space. Sheer linen draperies soften the hard lines and add to the light, airy feel. Tinius Photography

It’s not uncommon for the primary bedroom to be an upper floor in an older home. Such was the case with Park House and as the owners were getting older, the desire to walk up a full flight of stairs multiple times a day was starting to become undesirable. The owners wanted to find away to create a new primary bedroom suite on the main floor of the house, which would allow the upstairs rooms to be dedicated for guests. The existing home had a 2-car garage attached to the rear façade, and was fed by a large expansive concrete driveway and lawn area. Both areas were largely unused, but afforded enough space for a new addition to be added to the house, and then a separate garage structure built adjacent to it. Our team developed a couple of sketch floor plan options on how such as an addition could work alongside a separate new garage structure. One of the goals for the project was that it had to feel like it belonged with the house in that it couldn’t be jarringly modern. The result is a new rear addition that harmoniously blends in with the existing home that provides a large tranquil bedroom with a spa-like bathroom on the main floor. In addition, a new rear entry vestibule was designed as a transition point between new and old, while also providing space for an adjacent laundry room. The new addition also provided an opportunity to create an enclosed private courtyard with lush landscaping and enough space for large family gatherings.

This condo in Sterling, VA belongs to a couple about to enter into retirement. They own this home in Sterling, along with a weekend home in West Virginia, a vacation home on Emerald Isle in North Carolina and a vacation home in St. John. They want to use this home as their "home-base" during their retirement, when they need to be in the metro area for business or to see family. The condo is small and they felt it was too "choppy," it didn't have good flow and the rooms were too separated and confined. They wondered if it could have more of an open concept feel but were doubtful due to the size and layout of the home. The furnishings they owned from their previous home were very traditional and heavy. They wanted a much lighter, more open and more contemporary feel to this home. They wanted it to feel clean, light, airy and much bigger then it is. The first thing we tackled was an unsightly, and very heavy stone veneered fireplace wall that separated the family room from the office space. It made both rooms look heavy and dark. We took down the stone and opened up parts of the wall so that the two spaces would flow into each other. We added a view thru fireplace and gave the fireplace wall a faux marble finish to lighten it and make it much more contemporary. Glass shelves bounce light and keep the wall feeling light and streamlined. Custom built ins add hidden storage and make great use of space in these small rooms. Our strategy was to open as much as possible and to lighten the space through the use of color, fabric and glass. New furnishings in lighter colors and soft textures help keep the feeling light and modernize the space. Sheer linen draperies soften the hard lines and add to the light, airy feel. Tinius Photography

2013 NARI Capital CotY, Merit Award Winner, Creative Solutions under $15,000 Objective: This couple was tired of the old brick look of their family room and its embedded fireplace. They wanted to uplift the entire room, with better lighting, updated built ins and new gas log fireplace. Challenges: It was not an easy task to get rid of all masonry and brick wall. Gas lines and powder line were quite distance away and the family room floor was a concrete slab. Design solutions: It was important for the couple to create an optional separation between the family room and the kitchen for times that she is having her book club gang over and husband wanted to watch his sporting events. Part of the wall between kitchen and family room was taken by a closet. We have removed that entire wall and implemented a 6” wide Barn door for a partial solution to their problem. New wiring for light and cable wires were running into the old masonry wall. Gas line gave the old wood burning fireplace and new life. Custom built in cabinetry was placed in place old masonry wall. A new stone hearth and surround wrapped around the new fireplace. New hardwood wide plank flooring gave this family room warmth. New recess lighting has offered a much brighter room. Outcome: He gets to enjoy his favorite football team beat up the rebels while she gets to have her tea party around the kitchen table. And in all other occasions they get to cuddle by the flames of a new fireplace.

Studioteka was asked to transform a dark, and very dated kitchen and dining area for a professional couple residing in New York’s sought after Riverdale neighborhood, just a stone’s throw from Van Cortlandt Park. The couple like to cook and entertain, and wanted a space where they’d be able to host dinner parties that could also spill onto their beautiful back deck and yard. The design team removed the old kitchen cabinets and the wall which had previously separated both spaces, allowing for the creation of an oversized island that also contained cabinetry and space for a breakfast bar. Old ductwork which had been contained in the wall was rerouted, and cleverly hidden within the new island’s custom drawers and cabinetry. The gas range was relocated to the far wall, and the dishwasher was moved from the window side to the island side of the kitchen, allowing for a better kitchen workflow. New recessed and pendant lighting illuminate the space, and highlight the island. The Brazilian Bajkal Quartzite countertops provide a light contrast to the dark wood of the cabinetry below, while white subway tile and cabinets above provide openness, making the space appear larger and light filled. The kitchen window and French doors leading to the outdoor space in back were replaced, and side lights were added around the door, allowing for the creation of a new and light filled and beautiful entertainment space in the home.