Search results for "Simple joy" in Home Design Ideas

Dopamine-inspired home design is becoming a favorite among young families—bright colors, playful lighting, and uplifting energy bring every corner of the home to life. With just a touch of bold color and a mood-boosting light fixture, any space can shift from simple to vibrant, creating a cheerful environment that inspires joy every day.

Dopamine-inspired home design is becoming a favorite among young families—bright colors, playful lighting, and uplifting energy bring every corner of the home to life. With just a touch of bold color and a mood-boosting light fixture, any space can shift from simple to vibrant, creating a cheerful environment that inspires joy every day.

11" tall cornices add color and interest to this simple office. Cornices are in a textured stripe with leather piping from Samuel and Sons. The piping ties into the beloved leather chair and dark wood blinds.
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Lake Austin Contemporary Home | Master Bedroom | Paula Ables Interiors | Beautiful Master Bedroom with view of pool area and Lake Austin | The bright, happy, orange color of the room is a joy to wake up to each day | Photo by Coles Hairston | Architecture by James D. LaRue Architects

Our clients, a vibrant young family with two energetic kids and a playful dog, were feeling the constraints of their outdated, cramped house. The Main Floor was divided by walls, fragmenting the Kitchen, Dining Room, and living areas, making family time and entertaining a bit of a struggle.
The Kitchen was small and dim, lacking counter space and storage. The kids' study/play table was squeezed into a tight corner, emphasizing the lack of space. The dark hardwood floors were scratched and worn, and the foyer felt cramped and uninviting. The powder room was also
The idea of a major renovation brought both excitement and a bit of anxiety. The couple was unsure about design decisions and worried about the challenges of dealing with structural columns and beams.
Collaborating with Sosna designer Camila, the family embarked on a journey to transform their outdated house into a bright, functional home.
To open up the space, walls were removed, creating a seamless flow between the foyer, living room, dining room, and kitchen.
The kitchen was relocated and expanded to include generous counter space and a large island, providing the ideal spot for the kids to help prepare meals—a task they’ve come to enjoy since the renovation—or work on their homework. Additionally, the addition of a cozy window bench offers extra seating for hanging out with the family. It’s also the perfect place to curl up with a good book.
The once dark and gloomy powder room was completely refreshed with new fixtures, a white oak vanity, and beautiful floor tiles, which significantly brightened it up.
Additionally, the dark hardwood floors were replaced with a lighter, more modern option, brightening the entire main floor.
The renovation wasn't without its hiccups. A mix-up with the hardwood flooring led to a last-minute scramble for a replacement. But in the end, the family fell in love with the new flooring, proving that sometimes unexpected changes can lead to even better outcomes.
The renovation completely transformed the home. What was once a cramped and segmented main floor is now a bright, open space perfectly suited to the family's lifestyle. The new kitchen island became the heart of the home, providing a place for the kids to do homework while their parents cooked, fostering a sense of togetherness. The open layout also made hosting gatherings effortless.
Throughout the renovation, the kids and their dog brought a playful energy to the construction site, forming a special bond with the crew. Despite the challenges of living through a renovation, the family managed to maintain a sense of normalcy, working from home when possible and appreciating the crew's efforts to keep things tidy.
What started as a simple update turned into a full-scale transformation that reflects the family’s needs and personal style. Their willingness to embrace bold design choices, such as blush pink tiles and bright floral patterns, adds a unique touch to the space. And that hardwood flooring mix-up? It turned out to be a happy accident, resulting in a floor they love even more.
In the end, this renovation was more than just a home makeover; it was about creating a space that truly feels like home, nurturing family connections, and bringing joy to everyday life.

This zealous gardener was tired of her pool taking up so much space in her landscape. She asked me for ideas. The answer was simple. Since her garden brings her so much joy, I proposed adding more garden rooms to experience. We removed the large expansive pool and replaced it with a small reflecting pond that doubles as the pool. This allowed us to create 4 new garden spaces. We replaced all concrete pavers with natural PA flagstone. The traditional square lawn provides elements of simplicity, elegance and classical style while creating a new play space for the grand kids. The pergola creates depth and a great focal point from the loggia. We illuminated all the walkways and garden rooms with Escort Lighting. One of the most fun transformations was converting the spa to a fish pond. The pond provides just enough sound to drain out all neighborhood activities. In the front, we created a new permeable brick paving parking area. The parking area was designed to keep visitors from venturing to the back parking. We chose the permeable brick pavers to collect runoff that is becoming more of a problem in the neighborhood. Our final piece to this property was to come up with a unique solution creating additional privacy while minimizing root damage to the existing plant material. Our client was looking for a permanent solution that required little to no maintenance. Masonry walls were out due to the necessary footers. We looked at fence options. Wood and plastics were out, so we created post out of steel “I” beams and setting concrete lintels in between the lintels. It was perfect. This has to be one of my favorite projects to design and implement of my 25 year experience.

Designed by Bryan Hunt of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Frederick MD in collaboration with Walker Works, Inc., this small white transitional kitchen remodel features Merillat Masterpiece cabinets in the Fox Court door style in Maple with a Dove White finish. The kitchen countertops are Caesarstone Black Tempal.
The kitchen remodel also includes Portofino Grigio 18x18 floor tile and tile backsplash in Italgraniti 4x12 Fjord Creek.
“The space was definitely older in style. There were laminate floors and flat medium brown doors on the cabinets. The counter tops were crowded as there wasn’t any dedicated storage space for items,” said Bryan. “The biggest thing for this project was to update the space and have better storage capabilities. I was able to combine the wine and coffee into a single area with a water cooler and took the spices off the counter top with a wood tiered spice organizer in the top drawer by the range. There is a better access to the pots and pans with a pullout in the blind corner cabinet. The entire project turned out great. I love the pairing of the back splash tile and countertop.”
“I can sum up my experience in just three letters - WOW! Our new kitchen brought tears of joy to my eyes after completing it. I have more counter space, and cooking and baking are a cinch! Even a simple chore like emptying a dishwasher is much easier after moving the dishwasher from right to left. I have a pull-out cabinet and a Lazy Susan corner cabinet, which eliminates bending down to find pots and pans,” said the client.
“Bryan was so helpful from the very start. I told him what I needed, and he made it happen. He is a model for delivering quality customer service and often says, “I want you to be happy!” I can honestly say that choosing Reico was the right choice.”
Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Elegant details abound in this primary suite making it a joy. Delicate glass mosaic tiles running up the wall, subtle hex patterned floor tile, custom cabinetry in a soft hue, sculpted scones, hardware in glass and metals, ogee edged counter-top, glass doors for display. For function; a heated floor and a tall heated towel warmer, power inside spaces where its useful yet hidden, double sinks and fixtures, three medicine cabinets, drawers and storage galore, a large shower with a seat and multiple fixtures.

Designed in 1970 for an art collector, the existing referenced 70’s architectural principles. With its cadence of ‘70’s brick masses punctuated by a garage and a 4-foot-deep entrance recess. This recess, however, didn’t convey to the interior, which was occupied by disjointed service spaces. To solve, service spaces are moved and reorganized in open void in the garage. (See plan) This also organized the home: Service & utility on the left, reception central, and communal living spaces on the right.
To maintain clarity of the simple one-story 70’s composition, the second story add is recessive. A flex-studio/extra bedroom and office are designed ensuite creating a slender form and orienting them front to back and setting it back allows the add recede. Curves create a definite departure from the 70s home and by detailing it to "hover like a thought" above the first-floor roof and mentally removable sympathetic add.Existing unrelenting interior walls and a windowless entry, although ideal for fine art was unconducive for the young family of three. Added glass at the front recess welcomes light view and the removal of interior walls not only liberate rooms to communicate with each other but also reinform the cleared central entry space as a hub.
Even though the renovation reinforms its relationship with art, the joy and appreciation of art was not dismissed. A metal sculpture lost in the corner of the south side yard bumps the sculpture at the front entrance to the kitchen terrace over an added pedestal. (See plans) Since the roof couldn’t be railed without compromising the one-story '70s composition, the sculpture garden remains physically inaccessible however mirrors flanking the chimney allow the sculptures to be appreciated in three dimensions. The mirrors also afford privacy from the adjacent Tudor's large master bedroom addition 16-feet away.

These clients were in the second stage of renovating their stylish Tudor when we were approached to help formulate a final design plan for entertainment, technology integration and lighting design and control systems. Although the plan was to implement the final completion of these systems in stages, we needed to prepare the appropriate wiring to accomplish the end goals.
We provided a lighting design plan for the areas under construction and some simple control solutions from Lutron and Universal Remote Control. Once the Family room was completed we brought in the BDI Novia A/V Cabinet in Coco stained Cherry. This excellent piece of A/V furniture was just large enough to house the entertainment system along with the homes WiFi router.
The A/V system was built around a Denon AVR 3809Ci. Source components consisted of Comcast Cable HD DVR, Samsung Blu-Ray DVD player and an Apple TV. The Apple TV was the primarily used for playing the clients music and sharing their family pictures on the 50” Samsung LED TV. The Samsung Blu-Ray DVD player was designed with an internet application for Pandora Radio which is a great way to experience a wide variety of music by creating sets of personable radio stations.
Listing to the entertainment system is a real joy with the Totem Tribe in-wall speakers. These sealed cabinet in-wall speakers are some of the best in the world for a very reasonable price. The Velodyne MiniVee 10 was used as the subwoofer. Panamax surge protection was incorporated for everything including the TV.
The Universal Remote Control MX-980 was programmed to operate the primary entertainment system along with multiple audio zones for Kitchen, Dining, Patio, Master Bed & Bathroom through the Aton DLA6 zoned speaker selector and volume controller. Additional MX900 was used to support the master suite control within that area.
A Lutron Graphic eye was used in the Dining room to manage all of the lighting scenes while the Family room was controlled via the MX-980 remote and RF replacement wall dimmers. This was a great balance of budget and appropriate user interface options.
Client

Imagine a sleek A-frame cabin near Fairplay, where mountain views steal the show. Redhill Road is a modern take on a classic shape, small in size but big on quality – perfect for embracing Colorado's wild beauty without extra fuss.
Our clients sought a home that highlighted Mt. Silverheels and Crystal Clear Creek, using a simple gable design that's stood the test of time. With space like a townhome, it focuses on smart layout and top materials for a cozy, efficient life.
In the mountains, cold and wind can drive up costs and discomfort. We tackled that with thick insulation and no weak spots, keeping the home warm and energy bills low for worry-free living.
The concept celebrates basics – a clean roof over sturdy walls, wrapped in metal for a modern edge. A tall stone fireplace adds heart and texture, making the space feel solid and welcoming.
Built with wood and advanced insulation, including spray foam in the thick roof, it's made to handle harsh weather. Metal siding keeps it durable and stylish, blending strength with simplicity.
Cozy on the main floor with open living and dining that soar high, connected by custom stairs to upstairs bedrooms. Windows reach to the roof, letting you sleep under the stars in a light, airy setup.
From its 2021 start, Redhill Road has become a timeless mountain haven. It saves energy, connects you to nature, and offers practical luxury – a home where simplicity sparks joy and lasting comfort.

This zealous gardener was tired of her pool taking up so much space in her landscape. She asked me for ideas. The answer was simple. Since her garden brings her so much joy, I proposed adding more garden rooms to experience. We removed the large expansive pool and replaced it with a small reflecting pond that doubles as the pool. This allowed us to create 4 new garden spaces. We replaced all concrete pavers with natural PA flagstone. The traditional square lawn provides elements of simplicity, elegance and classical style while creating a new play space for the grand kids. The pergola creates depth and a great focal point from the loggia. We illuminated all the walkways and garden rooms with Escort Lighting. One of the most fun transformations was converting the spa to a fish pond. The pond provides just enough sound to drain out all neighborhood activities. In the front, we created a new permeable brick paving parking area. The parking area was designed to keep visitors from venturing to the back parking. We chose the permeable brick pavers to collect runoff that is becoming more of a problem in the neighborhood. Our final piece to this property was to come up with a unique solution creating additional privacy while minimizing root damage to the existing plant material. Our client was looking for a permanent solution that required little to no maintenance. Masonry walls were out due to the necessary footers. We looked at fence options. Wood and plastics were out, so we created post out of steel “I” beams and setting concrete lintels in between the lintels. It was perfect. This has to be one of my favorite projects to design and implement of my 25 year experience.

Large or small, a walk-in closet is a room all its own. A high-quality door and drawers, installed accessories, finishes, lighting, and layout options create a custom-designed and organized space that is a joy to use every day.
His and hers shoe shelves were designed to ensure that there is a place for everything, with everything in its place. When a couple shares a closet, it can sometimes be difficult to stay organized, especially when there are a lot of items to be stored. Pam’s design ensures functionality for everyone, while also allowing easy access to shoes, scarves, shirts and pants.
Lighting within a walk-in closet increases functionality and dramatically enhances the aesthetic of a simple design. From spotlights over display shelves to a lighted shoe closet, lighting can transform a spacious closet into a personal boutique. A few well-placed fixtures are a great way to add a glamour feel to storage areas.
Additionally, lighted glass shelves and lighted backs allow for easier color distinction and matching of the wardrobe, and make it easier to see items while providing a coveted boutique look.

This zealous gardener was tired of her pool taking up so much space in her landscape. She asked me for ideas. The answer was simple. Since her garden brings her so much joy, I proposed adding more garden rooms to experience. We removed the large expansive pool and replaced it with a small reflecting pond that doubles as the pool. This allowed us to create 4 new garden spaces. We replaced all concrete pavers with natural PA flagstone. The traditional square lawn provides elements of simplicity, elegance and classical style while creating a new play space for the grand kids. The pergola creates depth and a great focal point from the loggia. We illuminated all the walkways and garden rooms with Escort Lighting. One of the most fun transformations was converting the spa to a fish pond. The pond provides just enough sound to drain out all neighborhood activities. In the front, we created a new permeable brick paving parking area. The parking area was designed to keep visitors from venturing to the back parking. We chose the permeable brick pavers to collect runoff that is becoming more of a problem in the neighborhood. Our final piece to this property was to come up with a unique solution creating additional privacy while minimizing root damage to the existing plant material. Our client was looking for a permanent solution that required little to no maintenance. Masonry walls were out due to the necessary footers. We looked at fence options. Wood and plastics were out, so we created post out of steel “I” beams and setting concrete lintels in between the lintels. It was perfect. This has to be one of my favorite projects to design and implement of my 25 year experience.

A modern interpretation
A thousand confetti spreading joy and colour.
The gaze is attracted, seduced by the deep nuances.
This project takes inspiration from the battuto veneziano, and uses ceramic linear inserts to combine creative freedom and geometric rigour. Carnevale Veneziano is matter turned into poetry, with a style that celebrates tradition while skilfully rearticulating it. A retro collection, created for anyone who wants a floor with all the magic of a simple, yet powerful effect.

Designed in 1970 for an art collector, the existing referenced 70’s architectural principles. With its cadence of ‘70’s brick masses punctuated by a garage and a 4-foot-deep entrance recess. This recess, however, didn’t convey to the interior, which was occupied by disjointed service spaces. To solve, service spaces are moved and reorganized in open void in the garage. (See plan) This also organized the home: Service & utility on the left, reception central, and communal living spaces on the right.
To maintain clarity of the simple one-story 70’s composition, the second story add is recessive. A flex-studio/extra bedroom and office are designed ensuite creating a slender form and orienting them front to back and setting it back allows the add recede. Curves create a definite departure from the 70s home and by detailing it to "hover like a thought" above the first-floor roof and mentally removable sympathetic add.Existing unrelenting interior walls and a windowless entry, although ideal for fine art was unconducive for the young family of three. Added glass at the front recess welcomes light view and the removal of interior walls not only liberate rooms to communicate with each other but also reinform the cleared central entry space as a hub.
Even though the renovation reinforms its relationship with art, the joy and appreciation of art was not dismissed. A metal sculpture lost in the corner of the south side yard bumps the sculpture at the front entrance to the kitchen terrace over an added pedestal. (See plans) Since the roof couldn’t be railed without compromising the one-story '70s composition, the sculpture garden remains physically inaccessible however mirrors flanking the chimney allow the sculptures to be appreciated in three dimensions. The mirrors also afford privacy from the adjacent Tudor's large master bedroom addition 16-feet away.

Designed in 1970 for an art collector, the existing referenced 70’s architectural principles. With its cadence of ‘70’s brick masses punctuated by a garage and a 4-foot-deep entrance recess. This recess, however, didn’t convey to the interior, which was occupied by disjointed service spaces. To solve, service spaces are moved and reorganized in open void in the garage. (See plan) This also organized the home: Service & utility on the left, reception central, and communal living spaces on the right.
To maintain clarity of the simple one-story 70’s composition, the second story add is recessive. A flex-studio/extra bedroom and office are designed ensuite creating a slender form and orienting them front to back and setting it back allows the add recede. Curves create a definite departure from the 70s home and by detailing it to "hover like a thought" above the first-floor roof and mentally removable sympathetic add.Existing unrelenting interior walls and a windowless entry, although ideal for fine art was unconducive for the young family of three. Added glass at the front recess welcomes light view and the removal of interior walls not only liberate rooms to communicate with each other but also reinform the cleared central entry space as a hub.
Even though the renovation reinforms its relationship with art, the joy and appreciation of art was not dismissed. A metal sculpture lost in the corner of the south side yard bumps the sculpture at the front entrance to the kitchen terrace over an added pedestal. (See plans) Since the roof couldn’t be railed without compromising the one-story '70s composition, the sculpture garden remains physically inaccessible however mirrors flanking the chimney allow the sculptures to be appreciated in three dimensions. The mirrors also afford privacy from the adjacent Tudor's large master bedroom addition 16-feet away.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Studioteka was asked to gut renovate a pair of apartments in two historic tenement buildings owned by a client as rental properties in the East Village. Though small in footprint at approximately 262 and 278 square feet, respectively, the units each boast well appointed kitchens complete with custom built shaker-style cabinetry and a full range of appliances including a dishwasher, 4 burner stove with oven, and a full height refrigerator with freezer, and bathrooms with stackable or combined washer/dryer units for busy downtown city dwellers. The shaker style cabinetry also has integrated finger pulls for the drawers and cabinet doors, and so requires no hardware. Our innovative client was a joy to work with, and numerous layouts and options were explored in arriving at the best possible use of the space. The angled wall in the smaller of the two units was a part of this collaborative process as it allowed us to be able to fit a stackable unit in the bathroom while ensuring that we also met ADA adaptable standards. New warm wooden flooring was installed in both units to complement the light, blond color of the cabinets which in turn contrast with the cooler stone countertop and gray wooden backsplash. The same wood for the backsplash is then used on the bathroom floor, where it provides a contrast with the simple, white subway tile, sleek silver hanging rods, and white plumbing fixtures.

Custom Curved Wooden Slides by Top Tread Stairways ~
Transform Your Home Into Something Extraordinary
Custom Curved Wooden Slides
When was the Last Time Someone Walked Into Your Home and Their Jaw Literally Dropped?
When was the last time someone walked into your home and their jaw literally dropped?
Picture this: Your guests arrive for dinner. They step into your foyer, and suddenly—silence. Wide eyes. A moment of pure disbelief. Then, inevitably, the question: “Is that really what I think it is?”
Welcome to the world of custom curved wooden slides, where Top Tread Stairways turns childhood dreams into sophisticated architectural statements.
The Secret is Out
For years, Clyde Martin and his team at Top Tread Stairways in Sierra Vista, Arizona, have been quietly building something extraordinary. While most stair companies focus on traditional projects, TopTread Stairways has been perfecting the art of custom hardwood slides—creating installations so remarkable that we joke about renaming the business “Chutes and Ladders.”
The truth? These aren’t just slides. They’re conversation pieces. Works of functional art. The kind of architectural element that sets your home apart from every other one on the planet.
And we build so many of them that we’ve shipped custom slides all over North America and beyond.
Four Ways to Make Your Home Unforgettable
Every slide project we undertake is unique, but they generally fall into four categories:
1. Curved Stair-Slide Combinations – The ultimate space-efficient solution, where stairs and slide spiral together in a stunning combination of form and function.
2. Curved Slides Separate from Stairways – For those who want the drama of a standalone curved slide that makes its own architectural statement.
3. Straight Stair-Slide Combinations – Perfect for modern, linear spaces where clean lines meet playful innovation.
4. Straight Slides Separate from Stairways – Sometimes simplicity creates the most powerful impact.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Some slides feature flat seat areas with vertical sides. Others embrace a barrel shape for enhanced comfort. We’ve built slides wide enough for several people to descend shoulder-to-shoulder, laughing all the way down. And we’ve crafted intimate slides designed for solo adventures, regardless of age or size.
Our clients? They absolutely love them.
Stories That Will Make You Rethink What’s Possible
Take the 11,000-square-foot home in Beverly Hills, overlooking the famous Sunset Strip. In one child’s bedroom, we installed a 12-foot curved slide crafted from white oak. Understated location, extraordinary feature.
Or consider the 35-foot-high round tower room in an 8,500-square-foot custom home bordering the Sacramento River in Northern California. This project has become our most famous installation—a stunning 33-foot curved stair-slide combination built entirely from solid black walnut, featuring 445 layers of cross-laminated hardwood and a spiral newel post that took eight months to construct in our shop.
The homeowners had searched for eight years to find someone “crazy enough” to build their dream. When we completed it, one of Clyde’s trusted business partners—someone who’d seen him tackle countless unique projects—admitted he thought Clyde had lost his mind taking this one on. He genuinely didn’t believe we could pull it off.
We did. And the homeowners? Still thrilled years later.
Where Imagination Meets Reality
But these slides aren’t just for private estates. We’ve installed a 24-foot hickory slide in an elementary school library just east of Dallas, where kids absolutely love it. And here’s something that will make you smile: We built the longest wood slide ever for a children’s hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
Have you ever heard a child beg to go to the doctor?
We’re pretty sure it happens in Springfield. That walnut slide stretches 45 feet long and 3 feet wide—spacious enough for three children to sit side-by-side or for an adult and child to slide together comfortably. We built it in one piece, filling an entire semi-trailer for transport. It lives in the hospital lobby, and no appointment is needed to experience it yourself.
In Raleigh, North Carolina, we installed a 36-foot white oak slide in a custom home. The client loved it so much they ordered a second one—literally 15 minutes after we finished the installation. When Clyde returned to the office, there was already a check in the mailbox for slide number two. This 14,000-square-foot home now features 72 linear feet of curved white oak slide: one connecting the second floor to the main level, another linking the main floor to the finished basement.
What a ride, indeed.
Then there’s the curved stair-slide combination in Visalia, California—32 feet of knotty alder complemented by a hanging netted loft and climbing wall. Creative? Absolutely. Fun? Beyond measure.
The People Behind the Dreams
What inspires us most isn’t the technical challenge of building these slides—though engineering a 33-foot curved slide from 445 layers of cross-laminated hardwood certainly keeps us engaged. It’s working with clients who refuse to think inside the box.
These are creative individuals willing to explore ideas that set their homes and businesses apart. They dream of installations that make people stop and stare. They understand that architecture can—and should—inspire joy.
Listening to them describe their visions, explaining their dreams of a slide design unlike anything else on earth? That’s a privilege. And bringing those dreams to life? That’s what we live for.
My team and I have as much fun designing and building these slides as our clients have riding them. We’d love nothing better than to hear from you!
Custom Curved Wooden Slides
What Sets Top Tread Stairways Apart
Since 2006, Clyde Martin has built Top Tread Stairways on a simple premise: there’s a better way to build stairs. With roots in eastern Pennsylvania and years of experience installing hundreds of pre-built stairways, Clyde brought that expertise west and founded a company dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship.
We stock thousands of stair parts in more than ten wood species—hickory, jatoba, maple, cherry, mahogany, alder, red oak, white oak, poplar, Douglas fir, and walnut. Quality levels are high. Lead times are short. We understand the urgency of your project schedule and deliver accordingly.
But here’s what really matters: When it comes to custom wooden slides, Top Tread Stairways is one of—if not the—premier builders of indoor wooden slides in the United States. This isn’t a side project for us. It’s a specialty we’ve refined through years of experience, countless installations, and an unwavering commitment to turning impossible dreams into breathtaking reality.
Your Home, Reimagined
Whether you’re envisioning a straight wooden stand-alone slide for your office or a jaw-dropping curved wooden slide/stairway combination that will become your home’s signature feature, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re not here to build ordinary. We’re here to build extraordinary.
Ready to set your home apart?
~ Custom Curved Wooden Slides ~ ART YOU RIDE!

Studioteka was asked to gut renovate a pair of apartments in two historic tenement buildings owned by a client as rental properties in the East Village. Though small in footprint at approximately 262 and 278 square feet, respectively, the units each boast well appointed kitchens complete with custom built shaker-style cabinetry and a full range of appliances including a dishwasher, 4 burner stove with oven, and a full height refrigerator with freezer, and bathrooms with stackable or combined washer/dryer units for busy downtown city dwellers. The shaker style cabinetry also has integrated finger pulls for the drawers and cabinet doors, and so requires no hardware. Our innovative client was a joy to work with, and numerous layouts and options were explored in arriving at the best possible use of the space. The angled wall in the smaller of the two units was a part of this collaborative process as it allowed us to be able to fit a stackable unit in the bathroom while ensuring that we also met ADA adaptable standards. New warm wooden flooring was installed in both units to complement the light, blond color of the cabinets which in turn contrast with the cooler stone countertop and gray wooden backsplash. The same wood for the backsplash is then used on the bathroom floor, where it provides a contrast with the simple, white subway tile, sleek silver hanging rods, and white plumbing fixtures.
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