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.

Mid-sized elegant kids' alcove bathtub photo in Milwaukee with an integrated sink, recessed-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, marble countertops, a one-piece toilet and beige walls

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.

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Eric Roth Photo

We used: Custom cherry cabinetry in Arts & Crafts Shaker style by Kabinart in Boulder and Espresso stains. Liberty Hardware Venetian bronze 1-1/2" cabinet knobs. KitchenAid Architect II Series 22 CF counter-depth French door refrigerator. KitchenAid Architect Series II 27" convection single wall oven. KitchenAid 36" 6-burner dual fuel freestanding commercial-style range. KitchenAid Architect II Series 24" dishwasher. Sharp Insight Pro Series 24" built-in microwave drawer (Model #KB6524PS). Crystorama Solaris 12" wide pendant lights in English bronze. Granite countertops in Brown Fantasy. 3"x6" polished marble backsplash. Paint colors: Walls: Glidden Silver Cloud 30YY 63/024 Ceilings/Trims/Doors: Glidden Swan White GLC23 Robert B. Narod Photography

2011 CAPITAL COTY AWARD HONORABLE MENTION AWARD WINNER Built circa 1980, a young couple with three children originally purchased this home for their growing family. After four years of karate, soccer, piano and other activities, however, the home was becoming too small to meet their needs. Problems started upon entering the front foyer. A 25-foot long dark hallway separated the family room and the kitchen, ending in a tiny powder room stuck in the middle of the layout. The kitchen was especially isolated, a cramped L-shaped design with a box bay breakfast bump out that was literally falling apart. The new design started with the core of the problem—the maze and separation created by the long hallways. First, the 25’ load bearing wall separating the foyer from family room was totally taken out and replaced with a long supporting beam. A French door replaced a small door and window leading to a screen porch . This action allowed lots of light to get into family and foyer. Then, the powder room was removed and the partition wall between the kitchen and family room was taken down. This created a large open concept design and greatly increased the size of the kitchen. The box bay was demolished and replaced with new walls and a large window. The plumbing for main sink and dishwasher got relocated into this box bay allowing a total transformation of the space. Now there are cabinets and counters on all sides. The doorway to the dining room was reconfigured to allow a butler area on its left. While the right side was occupied with new 36” gas range top with a decorative wood hood above it. The refrigerator, microwave/oven and pantries—the space’s tall elements—occupy one wall.. A large Island with a prep sink and beverage center for the kids occupies the center of the layout. Capable of seating up to four, family and friends can now keep the cook company. A large built-in desk area lets the kids do their homework so the parents can supervise while they prepare meals. Light cabinetry with a touch of caramel glazing and exotic granite countertops by our designers contributed to this kitchen’s elegant design. The contrasting distressed island’s darker finish matches the dinette set and other furnishings. New hardwood floors were installed throughout the first floor for a seamless look, while recess, pendant and task lighting make the space even brighter. Importantly, there’s plenty of space for parents and kids to hang out together. The kitchen is truly the heart of their home.

This couple moved to Plano to be closer to their kids and grandchildren. When they purchased the home, they knew that the kitchen would have to be improved as they love to cook and gather as a family. The storage and prep space was not working for them and the old stove had to go! They loved the gas range that they had in their previous home and wanted to have that range again. We began this remodel by removing a wall in the butlers pantry to create a more open space. We tore out the old cabinets and soffit and replaced them with cherry Kraftmaid cabinets all the way to the ceiling. The cabinets were designed to house tons of deep drawers for ease of access and storage. We combined the once separated laundry and utility office space into one large laundry area with storage galore. Their new kitchen and laundry space is now super functional and blends with the adjacent family room. Photography by Versatile Imaging (Lauren Brown)

Joe and Denise purchased a large Tudor style home that never truly fit their needs. While interviewing contractors to replace the roof and stucco on their home, it prompted them to consider a complete remodel. With two young daughters and pets in the home, our clients were convinced they needed an open concept to entertain and enjoy family and friends together. The couple also desired a blend of traditional and contemporary styles with sophisticated finishes for the project. JRP embarked on a new floor plan design for both stories of the home. The top floor would include a complete rearrangement of the master suite allowing for separate vanities, spacious master shower, soaking tub, and bigger walk-in closet. On the main floor, walls separating the kitchen and formal dining room would come down. Steel beams and new SQFT was added to open the spaces up to one another. Central to the open-concept layout is a breathtaking great room with an expansive 6-panel bi-folding door creating a seamless view to the gorgeous hills. It became an entirely new space with structural changes, additional living space, and all-new finishes, inside and out to embody our clients’ dream home. PROJECT DETAILS: • Style: Transitional • Colors: Gray & White • Countertops: Calacatta Nuvo (Caesarstone) • Cabinets: Frameless Shaker, White (DeWils) • Hardware/Plumbing Fixture Finish: Chrome • Lighting Fixtures: unique and bold lighting fixtures throughout every room in the house (pendant lighting, chandeliers, sconces, etc) • Flooring: White Oak (Titanium wash) • Photographer: Andrew (Open House VC)

Joe and Denise purchased a large Tudor style home that never truly fit their needs. While interviewing contractors to replace the roof and stucco on their home, it prompted them to consider a complete remodel. With two young daughters and pets in the home, our clients were convinced they needed an open concept to entertain and enjoy family and friends together. The couple also desired a blend of traditional and contemporary styles with sophisticated finishes for the project. JRP embarked on a new floor plan design for both stories of the home. The top floor would include a complete rearrangement of the master suite allowing for separate vanities, spacious master shower, soaking tub, and bigger walk-in closet. On the main floor, walls separating the kitchen and formal dining room would come down. Steel beams and new SQFT was added to open the spaces up to one another. Central to the open-concept layout is a breathtaking great room with an expansive 6-panel bi-folding door creating a seamless view to the gorgeous hills. It became an entirely new space with structural changes, additional living space, and all-new finishes, inside and out to embody our clients’ dream home. PROJECT DETAILS: • Style: Transitional • Colors: Gray & White • Hardware/Plumbing Fixture Finish: Chrome • Lighting Fixtures: unique and bold lighting fixtures throughout every room in the house (pendant lighting, chandeliers, sconces, etc) • Photographer: Andrew (Open House VC)

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 couple moved to Plano to be closer to their kids and grandchildren. When they purchased the home, they knew that the kitchen would have to be improved as they love to cook and gather as a family. The storage and prep space was not working for them and the old stove had to go! They loved the gas range that they had in their previous home and wanted to have that range again. We began this remodel by removing a wall in the butlers pantry to create a more open space. We tore out the old cabinets and soffit and replaced them with cherry Kraftmaid cabinets all the way to the ceiling. The cabinets were designed to house tons of deep drawers for ease of access and storage. We combined the once separated laundry and utility office space into one large laundry area with storage galore. Their new kitchen and laundry space is now super functional and blends with the adjacent family room. Photography by Versatile Imaging (Lauren Brown)

Photo of a mediterranean landscaping in San Francisco.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

Joe and Denise purchased a large Tudor style home that never truly fit their needs. While interviewing contractors to replace the roof and stucco on their home, it prompted them to consider a complete remodel. With two young daughters and pets in the home, our clients were convinced they needed an open concept to entertain and enjoy family and friends together. The couple also desired a blend of traditional and contemporary styles with sophisticated finishes for the project. JRP embarked on a new floor plan design for both stories of the home. The top floor would include a complete rearrangement of the master suite allowing for separate vanities, spacious master shower, soaking tub, and bigger walk-in closet. On the main floor, walls separating the kitchen and formal dining room would come down. Steel beams and new SQFT was added to open the spaces up to one another. Central to the open-concept layout is a breathtaking great room with an expansive 6-panel bi-folding door creating a seamless view to the gorgeous hills. It became an entirely new space with structural changes, additional living space, and all-new finishes, inside and out to embody our clients’ dream home. PROJECT DETAILS: • Style: Transitional • Colors: Gray & White • Lighting Fixtures: unique and bold lighting fixtures throughout every room in the house (pendant lighting, chandeliers, sconces, etc) • Flooring: White Oak (Titanium wash) • Tile/Backsplash: varies throughout home • Photographer: Andrew (Open House VC)

This couple moved to Plano to be closer to their kids and grandchildren. When they purchased the home, they knew that the kitchen would have to be improved as they love to cook and gather as a family. The storage and prep space was not working for them and the old stove had to go! They loved the gas range that they had in their previous home and wanted to have that range again. We began this remodel by removing a wall in the butlers pantry to create a more open space. We tore out the old cabinets and soffit and replaced them with cherry Kraftmaid cabinets all the way to the ceiling. The cabinets were designed to house tons of deep drawers for ease of access and storage. We combined the once separated laundry and utility office space into one large laundry area with storage galore. Their new kitchen and laundry space is now super functional and blends with the adjacent family room. Photography by Versatile Imaging (Lauren Brown)

The porte cochere in this incredible home plan underlines the fact that this is no ordinary home. The French Country, French Provincial home is loaded with popular features. You’ll love the two-story foyer, the vaulted gathering room, and gourmet kitchen with adjacent formal dining space. The master suite features his and her’s walk-in closets and a master bath with a walk-in shower. A radius stair tower leads upstairs, where you’ll find three suites, a game room with wet bar, and a movie theater. Parking is a breeze, thanks to two separate garages, one for a single-car, the other with 2-car dimensions. An optional basement is also available with this plan. www.edgplancollection.com

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

Let the sun shine in and sit back and enjoy the warmth and view. Even room to invite a guest or two to join in!
Example of a transitional sunroom design in Manchester