Photo: Ten Ten Creative
Wet bar - transitional single-wall dark wood floor and brown floor wet bar idea in Dallas with shaker cabinets, black cabinets, black backsplash, subway tile backsplash and gray countertops

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

Inspiration for a farmhouse hallway remodel in Minneapolis

At Florida Custom Marble, we specialize in bringing your dream spaces to life with bespoke design and expert installation services. Whether you're looking to enhance your kitchen, bathroom, or any area of your home or office, our team of skilled designers and craftsmen work closely with you to create functional, beautiful cabinetry that reflects your unique style and meets your specific needs. From the initial design consultation to the final installation, we ensure a seamless process and impeccable finish, using only the highest quality materials. Let us transform your vision into reality with custom cabinetry that blends artistry with utility, tailored precisely for you.

At Florida Custom Marble, we specialize in bringing your dream spaces to life with bespoke design and expert installation services. Whether you're looking to enhance your kitchen, bathroom, or any area of your home or office, our team of skilled designers and craftsmen work closely with you to create functional, beautiful cabinetry that reflects your unique style and meets your specific needs. From the initial design consultation to the final installation, we ensure a seamless process and impeccable finish, using only the highest quality materials. Let us transform your vision into reality with custom cabinetry that blends artistry with utility, tailored precisely for you.

At Florida Custom Marble, we specialize in bringing your dream spaces to life with bespoke design and expert installation services. Whether you're looking to enhance your kitchen, bathroom, or any area of your home or office, our team of skilled designers and craftsmen work closely with you to create functional, beautiful cabinetry that reflects your unique style and meets your specific needs. From the initial design consultation to the final installation, we ensure a seamless process and impeccable finish, using only the highest quality materials. Let us transform your vision into reality with custom cabinetry that blends artistry with utility, tailored precisely for you.

Ann Parris
Transitional kids' multicolored tile, white tile and subway tile multicolored floor alcove bathtub photo in Salt Lake City with white walls and a trough sink

Our primary service is to custom design and build dream outdoor spaces by utilizing composite, PVC, and wood decking. Team members at OnDeck receive frequent training and certifications to improve their skills, keep up with industry advancements, and assure a comprehensive knowledge of deck products and code compliance. In addition to custom decks, many of our finished projects include pre-packed or custom-built pergolas, gazebos, pavilions, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, under deck systems, etc. OnDeck develops and delivers a comprehensive design that is congruent with budgets, schedules, and programmatic goals for outdoor and indoor space. We install high quality deck, porch and outdoor solutions using high-quality products, expert craftsmanship and exceptional service.

Our primary service is to custom design and build dream outdoor spaces by utilizing composite, PVC, and wood decking. Team members at OnDeck receive frequent training and certifications to improve their skills, keep up with industry advancements, and assure a comprehensive knowledge of deck products and code compliance. In addition to custom decks, many of our finished projects include pre-packed or custom-built pergolas, gazebos, pavilions, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, under deck systems, etc. OnDeck develops and delivers a comprehensive design that is congruent with budgets, schedules, and programmatic goals for outdoor and indoor space. We install high quality deck, porch and outdoor solutions using high-quality products, expert craftsmanship and exceptional service.

DESIGNED BY TOC design CONSTRUCTION BY TOC design & Construction inc. PHOTOS BY : Tania Scardellato I was fortunate to have a young family approach me in desperate need to renovate there only 3 piece bathroom. This space was In dire need of a remodel, with old brown wall to wall tiles and a dated bulky yellow brown single sink vanity. Storage was a must, lighting a necessity, and proper accessibility to the shower bath area. We had a tight budget to respect, but a full gut of this bathroom was required. And a good thing too, once we started doing the demolition we noticed that mildew and rotting floors and walls had accumulated throughout the years. Doing it right the first time is no joke when dealing with water and electrical issues. We discarded all reminisce of old and built from scratch, new walls, new plumbing, new electrical ,new insulation and a new window, a new fan that actually exhausted outside ( I say this laughing as you would be amazed at how many fans are installed but don’t exhaust outside, and you the client would never know unless you go inside the attic space. Once all the hard stuff was done, the rest is just a matter of smart design. If you have a small bathroom here are some tips to guide you. 10 tips for making a small bathroom feel larger Is your tiny bathroom cramping your functionality and style, leaving you longing for the enormous bathrooms gracing the pages of design magazines? Even if your bathroom is a fraction of the size, all it takes is some design savvy to make the most of the space you have. Consider these 10 smart tips that will help your bathroom look, feel and function like those larger contenders. 1-Get creative with corners Space is at a premium in small bathrooms, so it's important to maximize every inch. Corners, for example, provide extra space for shelving, storage units and even hooks. Get creative and install unique design solutions that are not only functional, but also eye-catching. If you love the airiness of floating cabinets, add baskets or decorative boxes under for extra storage. If you are installing floating cabinets insure that they are installed securely to studs or plywood at wall. 2- Let solid colors shine Busy patterns have a shrinking effect and make small bathrooms seem even smaller. Conversely, light natural hues make a space feel more open. If you're itching to get creative with design, experiment with textures but keep overpowering patterns to a minimum. Tone on tone is the best to achieve this. 3 - Maximize your bathtub A bathtub takes up a significant portion of the room, but modern, compact options with curved basins, can make the tub feel larger when in use, all while conserving space. 4 - Select a smaller faucet A faucet is jewelry for the bathroom. And just as accessories can overpower an outfit, a big bulky faucet isn't flattering in a small bath. Single-handle designs conserve counter space, while a wall-mount installation frees it up all together and can create quite the wow-factor, if the budget can accommodate the required changes to plumbing behind the wall. 5 - Make vanity storage simple If you're in a storage war with your small bathroom, you're not alone in the battle. Toiletries and personal supplies without a place to call home only add clutter and chaos. Store smart with a space-saving vanity, the dual sink vanity shown here, looks quite simple, but in reality it has 4 sets of full extension drawers, and the vanity tower adds extra storage without overpowering the use of space. 6 - Show off the shower Shower curtains may be pretty, but they interrupt the visual flow of a bathing space and make it feel significantly smaller. In bathrooms with small footprints, opt for a clear glass sliding shower door that doesn't require the clearance of one with a hinged design. Or as shown in this design and for fraction less expensive a half hinged panel installed on a fixed tempered glass panel. If you're embarking on a big remodel, create the illusion of more space by using same tile in the shower that's used throughout; instead of seeing them as two separate zones, the eye will read them as one. 7 - Discover the treasure of hidden storage Work with a contractor, and you just might find some serious storage potential hidden behind your walls. Whether it's utilizing space between the studs for shallow shelving or a creating a small linen closet by annexing space from an adjacent room, even small additions can make a big difference. 8 - Focal Point Tile is a beautiful, durable addition to any bathroom. For dainty spaces, consider installing tile at a diagonal to accentuate the focal point or as in this bathroom I used an oversized textured pattern to bring depth to the space at the window wall. 9 - Choose the right lights Strategically install light to reflect and brighten a small bathroom to make it appear larger. Recessed lighting is an affordable solution for tiny rooms, offering ample light while taking up little space. Wall sconces alongside a mirror also reflect off the walls and make a room feel bright and airy. I always recommend going with LED lighting at 2800 to 3000K. 10 – Accessorize This is your time to shine in your decorating skills, have fun with your towels, you can change the color scheme daily just by adding pops of color in your accessories, make sure to get items that serve a dual purpose, like baskets, boxes they can always be used as hampers, storing of towels and even a nice display for your guest.

This cozy lake cottage skillfully incorporates a number of features that would normally be restricted to a larger home design. A glance of the exterior reveals a simple story and a half gable running the length of the home, enveloping the majority of the interior spaces. To the rear, a pair of gables with copper roofing flanks a covered dining area that connects to a screened porch. Inside, a linear foyer reveals a generous staircase with cascading landing. Further back, a centrally placed kitchen is connected to all of the other main level entertaining spaces through expansive cased openings. A private study serves as the perfect buffer between the homes master suite and living room. Despite its small footprint, the master suite manages to incorporate several closets, built-ins, and adjacent master bath complete with a soaker tub flanked by separate enclosures for shower and water closet. Upstairs, a generous double vanity bathroom is shared by a bunkroom, exercise space, and private bedroom. The bunkroom is configured to provide sleeping accommodations for up to 4 people. The rear facing exercise has great views of the rear yard through a set of windows that overlook the copper roof of the screened porch below. Builder: DeVries & Onderlinde Builders Interior Designer: Vision Interiors by Visbeen Photographer: Ashley Avila Photography

Our primary service is to custom design and build dream outdoor spaces by utilizing composite, PVC, and wood decking. Team members at OnDeck receive frequent training and certifications to improve their skills, keep up with industry advancements, and assure a comprehensive knowledge of deck products and code compliance. In addition to custom decks, many of our finished projects include pre-packed or custom-built pergolas, gazebos, pavilions, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, under deck systems, etc. OnDeck develops and delivers a comprehensive design that is congruent with budgets, schedules, and programmatic goals for outdoor and indoor space. We install high quality deck, porch and outdoor solutions using high-quality products, expert craftsmanship and exceptional service.

Our primary service is to custom design and build dream outdoor spaces by utilizing composite, PVC, and wood decking. Team members at OnDeck receive frequent training and certifications to improve their skills, keep up with industry advancements, and assure a comprehensive knowledge of deck products and code compliance. In addition to custom decks, many of our finished projects include pre-packed or custom-built pergolas, gazebos, pavilions, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, under deck systems, etc. OnDeck develops and delivers a comprehensive design that is congruent with budgets, schedules, and programmatic goals for outdoor and indoor space. We install high quality deck, porch and outdoor solutions using high-quality products, expert craftsmanship and exceptional service.

The blues and whites of this mudroom make the entrance feel so bright. A custom sliding door can easily close off the small room including a stainless steel utility tub. Photos by Alicia's Art, LLC RUDLOFF Custom Builders, is a residential construction company that connects with clients early in the design phase to ensure every detail of your project is captured just as you imagined. RUDLOFF Custom Builders will create the project of your dreams that is executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsman, while creating lifetime client relationships that are build on trust and integrity. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area including West Chester, Gladwynne, Malvern, Wayne, Haverford and more. As a 6 time Best of Houzz winner, we look forward to working with you on your next project.

The average cost per square foot of a house in Highland Park, Illinois, is $221 (per Trulia), so utilizing this formerly unused space helps increase the return on investment in the home. This, not only, makes sense financially, but also, is very practical when space used for nothing turns into the “something” of 13 additional feet of usable hanging, shelving and drawers. The clean white impact of the melamine framing is carried, effectively, on to the high quality solid wood maple doors and drawer fronts. The honesty and simplicity of the shaker styling enhances the dignity of the efficient repurposing of space in this bedroom. This 24” deep structure keeps the feel crisp by allowing you to close and hide all of the hanging areas behind doors. Chrome hardware on the doors and drawers completes the look while the wood crown unites the structure giving the feeling that a skilled architect had this in mind from the beginning.

For this project in Ambleside, we created a made-to-measure fitted bedroom. The goal was to maximise storage and dressing space without overpowering the room, as it had many windows with views to be admired. We selected Daval’s Made-to-Measure Fitted Bedroom Furniture, which allowed for flexibility in design. It features a backlite headboard panel, bedside chests with LED reading lights, and USB points with lighting controls easily accessible. A mirror-fronted wardrobe placed at a corner utilises the space beautifully for full-hanging storage while doubling as a dressing mirror. The design also features his-and-hers dressing areas so the couple can have their own dedicated spaces. Chests were strategically positioned, providing extra storage for small items while adding warmth and balance to the design. They had an ensuite bathroom with an alcove area outside, perfect for a run of robes for extra storage, with everything behind closed doors. This bedroom was thoughtfully designed by Mike Hughes and expertly installed by our skilled installation team. If you’re looking to transform your bedroom into a stylish and functional space, get in touch with us.

For this project in Ambleside, we created a made-to-measure fitted bedroom. The goal was to maximise storage and dressing space without overpowering the room, as it had many windows with views to be admired. We selected Daval’s Made-to-Measure Fitted Bedroom Furniture, which allowed for flexibility in design. It features a backlite headboard panel, bedside chests with LED reading lights, and USB points with lighting controls easily accessible. A mirror-fronted wardrobe placed at a corner utilises the space beautifully for full-hanging storage while doubling as a dressing mirror. The design also features his-and-hers dressing areas so the couple can have their own dedicated spaces. Chests were strategically positioned, providing extra storage for small items while adding warmth and balance to the design. They had an ensuite bathroom with an alcove area outside, perfect for a run of robes for extra storage, with everything behind closed doors. This bedroom was thoughtfully designed by Mike Hughes and expertly installed by our skilled installation team. If you’re looking to transform your bedroom into a stylish and functional space, get in touch with us.

For this project in Ambleside, we created a made-to-measure fitted bedroom. The goal was to maximise storage and dressing space without overpowering the room, as it had many windows with views to be admired. We selected Daval’s Made-to-Measure Fitted Bedroom Furniture, which allowed for flexibility in design. It features a backlite headboard panel, bedside chests with LED reading lights, and USB points with lighting controls easily accessible. A mirror-fronted wardrobe placed at a corner utilises the space beautifully for full-hanging storage while doubling as a dressing mirror. The design also features his-and-hers dressing areas so the couple can have their own dedicated spaces. Chests were strategically positioned, providing extra storage for small items while adding warmth and balance to the design. They had an ensuite bathroom with an alcove area outside, perfect for a run of robes for extra storage, with everything behind closed doors. This bedroom was thoughtfully designed by Mike Hughes and expertly installed by our skilled installation team. If you’re looking to transform your bedroom into a stylish and functional space, get in touch with us.

If you are looking for a professional kitchen design and build company, then look no further than our company. We are experts at handling every aspect of your kitchen design and remodel. No matter what your particular goals or vision for your new kitchen may be, we will work tirelessly to bring your dream to life. Our team of top skilled designers will create a personalized plan for your space that is both functional and stylish. We utilize the latest software to create a virtual model of your new kitchen so you can also see exactly how it will look before any renovation even begins. Our expert craftsmen will then build your new kitchen using only the highest quality materials and finishes before your deadline. Contact us for a kitchen design and remodel