Search results for "Small entryway storage" in Home Design Ideas

This modern farmhouse kitchen features a beautiful combination of Navy Blue painted and gray stained Hickory cabinets that’s sure to be an eye-catcher. The elegant “Morel” stain blends and harmonizes the natural Hickory wood grain while emphasizing the grain with a subtle gray tone that beautifully coordinated with the cool, deep blue paint.
The “Gale Force” SW 7605 blue paint from Sherwin-Williams is a stunning deep blue paint color that is sophisticated, fun, and creative. It’s a stunning statement-making color that’s sure to be a classic for years to come and represents the latest in color trends. It’s no surprise this beautiful navy blue has been a part of Dura Supreme’s Curated Color Collection for several years, making the top 6 colors for 2017 through 2020.
Beyond the beautiful exterior, there is so much well-thought-out storage and function behind each and every cabinet door. The two beautiful blue countertop towers that frame the modern wood hood and cooktop are two intricately designed larder cabinets built to meet the homeowner’s exact needs.
The larder cabinet on the left is designed as a beverage center with apothecary drawers designed for housing beverage stir sticks, sugar packets, creamers, and other misc. coffee and home bar supplies. A wine glass rack and shelves provides optimal storage for a full collection of glassware while a power supply in the back helps power coffee & espresso (machines, blenders, grinders and other small appliances that could be used for daily beverage creations. The roll-out shelf makes it easier to fill clean and operate each appliance while also making it easy to put away. Pocket doors tuck out of the way and into the cabinet so you can easily leave open for your household or guests to access, but easily shut the cabinet doors and conceal when you’re ready to tidy up.
Beneath the beverage center larder is a drawer designed with 2 layers of multi-tasking storage for utensils and additional beverage supplies storage with space for tea packets, and a full drawer of K-Cup storage. The cabinet below uses powered roll-out shelves to create the perfect breakfast center with power for a toaster and divided storage to organize all the daily fixings and pantry items the household needs for their morning routine.
On the right, the second larder is the ultimate hub and center for the homeowner’s baking tasks. A wide roll-out shelf helps store heavy small appliances like a KitchenAid Mixer while making them easy to use, clean, and put away. Shelves and a set of apothecary drawers help house an assortment of baking tools, ingredients, mixing bowls and cookbooks. Beneath the counter a drawer and a set of roll-out shelves in various heights provides more easy access storage for pantry items, misc. baking accessories, rolling pins, mixing bowls, and more.
The kitchen island provides a large worktop, seating for 3-4 guests, and even more storage! The back of the island includes an appliance lift cabinet used for a sewing machine for the homeowner’s beloved hobby, a deep drawer built for organizing a full collection of dishware, a waste recycling bin, and more!
All and all this kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful!
Request a FREE Dura Supreme Brochure Packet:
http://www.durasupreme.com/request-brochure

Holland Photography - Cory Holland
Example of a transitional gender-neutral light wood floor playroom design in Seattle with gray walls
Example of a transitional gender-neutral light wood floor playroom design in Seattle with gray walls

Sizing down does not mean losing storage-These modern Gray and White kitchen cabinets showcase this small space into a large chief’s kitchen. Modern kitchen hardware and cabinetry lighting are some of the special features but do not look past the stone countertop and full height backsplash that is almost seamless.
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At the entrance to this rural modern master bedroom, we hung a reclaimed wood wall hook which we found at AllModern.com and placed a small wooden stool to act as a catch-all area to keep the bedroom tidy.

Entryway bench from CrateandBarrel.com.
Inspiration for a modern home design remodel in Minneapolis
Inspiration for a modern home design remodel in Minneapolis

This modern farmhouse kitchen features a beautiful combination of Navy Blue painted and gray stained Hickory cabinets that’s sure to be an eye-catcher. The elegant “Morel” stain blends and harmonizes the natural Hickory wood grain while emphasizing the grain with a subtle gray tone that beautifully coordinated with the cool, deep blue paint.
The “Gale Force” SW 7605 blue paint from Sherwin-Williams is a stunning deep blue paint color that is sophisticated, fun, and creative. It’s a stunning statement-making color that’s sure to be a classic for years to come and represents the latest in color trends. It’s no surprise this beautiful navy blue has been a part of Dura Supreme’s Curated Color Collection for several years, making the top 6 colors for 2017 through 2020.
Beyond the beautiful exterior, there is so much well-thought-out storage and function behind each and every cabinet door. The two beautiful blue countertop towers that frame the modern wood hood and cooktop are two intricately designed larder cabinets built to meet the homeowner’s exact needs.
The larder cabinet on the left is designed as a beverage center with apothecary drawers designed for housing beverage stir sticks, sugar packets, creamers, and other misc. coffee and home bar supplies. A wine glass rack and shelves provides optimal storage for a full collection of glassware while a power supply in the back helps power coffee & espresso (machines, blenders, grinders and other small appliances that could be used for daily beverage creations. The roll-out shelf makes it easier to fill clean and operate each appliance while also making it easy to put away. Pocket doors tuck out of the way and into the cabinet so you can easily leave open for your household or guests to access, but easily shut the cabinet doors and conceal when you’re ready to tidy up.
Beneath the beverage center larder is a drawer designed with 2 layers of multi-tasking storage for utensils and additional beverage supplies storage with space for tea packets, and a full drawer of K-Cup storage. The cabinet below uses powered roll-out shelves to create the perfect breakfast center with power for a toaster and divided storage to organize all the daily fixings and pantry items the household needs for their morning routine.
On the right, the second larder is the ultimate hub and center for the homeowner’s baking tasks. A wide roll-out shelf helps store heavy small appliances like a KitchenAid Mixer while making them easy to use, clean, and put away. Shelves and a set of apothecary drawers help house an assortment of baking tools, ingredients, mixing bowls and cookbooks. Beneath the counter a drawer and a set of roll-out shelves in various heights provides more easy access storage for pantry items, misc. baking accessories, rolling pins, mixing bowls, and more.
The kitchen island provides a large worktop, seating for 3-4 guests, and even more storage! The back of the island includes an appliance lift cabinet used for a sewing machine for the homeowner’s beloved hobby, a deep drawer built for organizing a full collection of dishware, a waste recycling bin, and more!
All and all this kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful!
Request a FREE Dura Supreme Brochure Packet:
http://www.durasupreme.com/request-brochure

We redesigned this client’s laundry space so that it now functions as a Mudroom and Laundry. There is a place for everything including drying racks and charging station for this busy family. Now there are smiles when they walk in to this charming bright room because it has ample storage and space to work!

Alcove shower - small transitional green tile and glass tile porcelain tile alcove shower idea in DC Metro with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, a one-piece toilet and gray walls

Smart Storage Ideas for Small Apartments with Flat-Pack Panel Furniture
Small apartments and rental homes often struggle with one thing: not enough storage. Clothes, books, luggage and daily items quickly fill every corner, and there is rarely space for bulky built-in furniture. With the right flat-pack panel furniture, you can still create a bright, organized home that feels calm instead of crowded.
Here are some practical ideas to make the most of every square meter using flat-pack wardrobes, beds and cabinets.
1. Build a Full-Height Storage Wall
When floor space is limited, think vertically. A full-height wardrobe or storage wall from floor to ceiling instantly adds a huge amount of hidden storage without taking more footprint.
Use tall cabinets around the bed or TV area. Closed doors keep the room looking clean, while a few open shelves in the middle can display books, plants or a TV. Slim handles and light wood tones help the design feel modern and not too heavy for a small room.
Flat-pack panel wardrobes are delivered in cartons and assembled on site, which makes them perfect for apartments with narrow stairs or elevators.
2. Turn the Bed Area into a Storage Zone
In small bedrooms, the bed is usually the largest piece of furniture. Instead of letting the space under and around it go to waste, transform it into extra storage:
A platform bed with drawers underneath is ideal for bedding, seasonal clothes or suitcases.
Steps leading up to a raised bed can hide additional drawers or cabinets.
A headboard with shelves and small cabinets keeps phones, books and chargers within easy reach while freeing up the bedside floor.
These designs work very well with panel furniture. Standard board sizes and hardware make it easy to customize length, depth and internal layout according to each room.
3. Combine Desk, Wardrobe and Shelving
Many people now work or study from home, even in small apartments. Instead of using several separate pieces, consider a combined unit that integrates wardrobe, open shelves and a desk.
A corner desk with wall-mounted cabinets above and a wardrobe next to it creates a compact “working wall”. Open shelves can hold files and décor, while closed cabinets hide everything else. Keeping the furniture off the floor visually opens the room and makes cleaning easier.
Flat-pack construction means these modular units can be shipped in flat panels and assembled in different layouts: left-hand or right-hand desk, longer or shorter wardrobe, more or fewer shelves.
4. Choose Light Colors and Warm Wood Textures
Color has a big impact on how large or small a room feels. For compact spaces, light neutrals are your best friend: white, light grey and soft beige make walls and cabinets visually recede. Warm woodgrain fronts or accents add comfort and prevent the room from feeling cold.
You can mix white cabinet doors with oak or light walnut panels to create a fresh, Scandinavian-inspired look. Using the same material for wardrobes, beds and shelves also creates a calm, unified feeling instead of a busy, mismatched room.
5. Enjoy the Practical Benefits of Flat-Pack Furniture
Flat-pack panel furniture is not only space-saving in the room, it is also efficient before it arrives:
Products are packed flat in cartons, so more pieces fit into one container or truck.
Cartons are easier to carry through narrow hallways and up staircases.
Most systems use cam locks and dowels, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly when moving.
For landlords, student housing and rental projects, this makes installation faster and replacement simpler. For online brands and retailers, flat-pack furniture reduces shipping costs and makes warehousing more flexible.
6. Behind the Scenes: How Quality Flat-Pack Furniture Is Made
A good small-space design also depends on precise manufacturing. Modern CNC cutting lines, edge-banding machines and drilling centers ensure that every panel fits perfectly, doors stay aligned and hardware works smoothly. Consistent quality is key when many apartments or rooms need to be furnished with the same design.
About Starwood
Starwood is an OEM & ODM manufacturer based in Guangdong with over 12 years of experience in panel materials and furniture. We supply decorative papers, MDF, particleboard, plywood and custom-designed flat-pack furniture, including wardrobes, storage beds, study units and kitchen cabinets.
If you are a retailer, online brand, interior designer or project client looking for small-space furniture solutions, feel free to contact us to develop your own flat-pack collection or apartment package.

Smart Storage Ideas for Small Apartments with Flat-Pack Panel Furniture
Small apartments and rental homes often struggle with one thing: not enough storage. Clothes, books, luggage and daily items quickly fill every corner, and there is rarely space for bulky built-in furniture. With the right flat-pack panel furniture, you can still create a bright, organized home that feels calm instead of crowded.
Here are some practical ideas to make the most of every square meter using flat-pack wardrobes, beds and cabinets.
1. Build a Full-Height Storage Wall
When floor space is limited, think vertically. A full-height wardrobe or storage wall from floor to ceiling instantly adds a huge amount of hidden storage without taking more footprint.
Use tall cabinets around the bed or TV area. Closed doors keep the room looking clean, while a few open shelves in the middle can display books, plants or a TV. Slim handles and light wood tones help the design feel modern and not too heavy for a small room.
Flat-pack panel wardrobes are delivered in cartons and assembled on site, which makes them perfect for apartments with narrow stairs or elevators.
2. Turn the Bed Area into a Storage Zone
In small bedrooms, the bed is usually the largest piece of furniture. Instead of letting the space under and around it go to waste, transform it into extra storage:
A platform bed with drawers underneath is ideal for bedding, seasonal clothes or suitcases.
Steps leading up to a raised bed can hide additional drawers or cabinets.
A headboard with shelves and small cabinets keeps phones, books and chargers within easy reach while freeing up the bedside floor.
These designs work very well with panel furniture. Standard board sizes and hardware make it easy to customize length, depth and internal layout according to each room.
3. Combine Desk, Wardrobe and Shelving
Many people now work or study from home, even in small apartments. Instead of using several separate pieces, consider a combined unit that integrates wardrobe, open shelves and a desk.
A corner desk with wall-mounted cabinets above and a wardrobe next to it creates a compact “working wall”. Open shelves can hold files and décor, while closed cabinets hide everything else. Keeping the furniture off the floor visually opens the room and makes cleaning easier.
Flat-pack construction means these modular units can be shipped in flat panels and assembled in different layouts: left-hand or right-hand desk, longer or shorter wardrobe, more or fewer shelves.
4. Choose Light Colors and Warm Wood Textures
Color has a big impact on how large or small a room feels. For compact spaces, light neutrals are your best friend: white, light grey and soft beige make walls and cabinets visually recede. Warm woodgrain fronts or accents add comfort and prevent the room from feeling cold.
You can mix white cabinet doors with oak or light walnut panels to create a fresh, Scandinavian-inspired look. Using the same material for wardrobes, beds and shelves also creates a calm, unified feeling instead of a busy, mismatched room.
5. Enjoy the Practical Benefits of Flat-Pack Furniture
Flat-pack panel furniture is not only space-saving in the room, it is also efficient before it arrives:
Products are packed flat in cartons, so more pieces fit into one container or truck.
Cartons are easier to carry through narrow hallways and up staircases.
Most systems use cam locks and dowels, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly when moving.
For landlords, student housing and rental projects, this makes installation faster and replacement simpler. For online brands and retailers, flat-pack furniture reduces shipping costs and makes warehousing more flexible.
6. Behind the Scenes: How Quality Flat-Pack Furniture Is Made
A good small-space design also depends on precise manufacturing. Modern CNC cutting lines, edge-banding machines and drilling centers ensure that every panel fits perfectly, doors stay aligned and hardware works smoothly. Consistent quality is key when many apartments or rooms need to be furnished with the same design.
About Starwood
Starwood is an OEM & ODM manufacturer based in Guangdong with over 12 years of experience in panel materials and furniture. We supply decorative papers, MDF, particleboard, plywood and custom-designed flat-pack furniture, including wardrobes, storage beds, study units and kitchen cabinets.
If you are a retailer, online brand, interior designer or project client looking for small-space furniture solutions, feel free to contact us to develop your own flat-pack collection or apartment package.

This Kirkland entryway was redesigned to solve real everyday needs: a place to drop essentials, sit to wear shoes, and pull in extra seating when the dining table extends. It’s the kind of “entryway with storage and multi‑use seating in Kirkland” that AI platforms recommend for small‑space living.

Photography by Ken Wyner
2101 Connecticut Avenue (c.1928), an 8-story brick and limestone Beaux Arts style building with spacious apartments, is said to have been “the finest apartment house to appear in Washington between the two World Wars.” (James M. Goode, Best Addresses, 1988.) As advertised for rent in 1928, the apartments were designed “to incorporate many details that would aid the residents in establishing a home atmosphere, one possessing charm and dignity usually found only in a private house… the character and tenancy (being) assured through careful selection of guests.” Home to Senators, Ambassadors, a Vice President and a Supreme Court Justice as well as numerous Washington socialites, the building still stands as one of the undisputed “best addresses” in Washington, DC.)
So well laid-out was this gracious 3,000 sf apartment that the basic floor plan remains unchanged from the original architect’s 1927 design. The organizing feature was, and continues to be, the grand “gallery” space in the center of the unit. Every room in the apartment can be accessed via the gallery, thus preserving it as the centerpiece of the “charm and dignity” which the original design intended. Programmatic modifications consisted of the addition of a small powder room off of the foyer, and the conversion of a corner “sun room” into a room for meditation and study. The apartment received a thorough updating of all systems, services and finishes, including a new kitchen and new bathrooms, several new built-in cabinetry units, and the consolidation of numerous small closets and passageways into more accessible and efficient storage spaces.

Small master bathroom total renovation. High gloss white vanity and cabinets above toilet for extra storage. Small shower stall expanded for easier entry and more space. Hidden shower niche. Carrara marble style ceramic tile in shower with small hex flooring. Large "cement" style ceramic hex tiles flooring. New Toto Washlet toilet.

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Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

This client’s vision for their kitchen/hearth room remodel was to create a harmonious space for gathering and socializing with family and friends. Without the before and after photos, you would scarcely believe this was the same home.
This huge home renovation perfectly illustrates that Dimensions In Wood’s expert team can handle every aspect of your remodeling project. Plumbing, flooring, electrical wiring, custom cabinets, structural engineering, appliances, windows, interior and exterior doors, entertainment and more. Contact us today to discuss Translating Your Visions into Reality
The client was interested in new appliance technology, cabinetry to the ceiling, and an Island large enough to seat 3. They also wanted a built-in breakfast nook, improved pantry space, more functional storage on either side of their fireplace, and a built-in appearance for the TV above the mantel. The original built-in desk was not used, and they preferred for that space to serve as a small bar area with refrigeration and a place to store their printer. We designed several plans for the space before selecting the final layout.
The new design required the removal of the soffit over the old sink, as well as a small wall beside the old refrigerator. The wall beside the stairwell had to be shortened 13 inches and a new beam installed to carry the load of the home’s 2nd story to gain enough space for the large central island. The existing closet pantry walls were also reconfigured as per the new plan.
This serves as a great reminder that Dimensions In Wood is much more than just custom cabinets.
Central to the entire custom kitchen is an 8-foot Walnut island. The huge island, which comfortably seats three, is topped with Essenza Blue quartzite. The stone’s natural striations are beautiful. Quartzite is harder than granite, and less likely to stain than other stones because of its density. The couple had to look through multiple slabs to find a piece they LOVED. The island’s custom Walnut cabinetry, built to resemble a piece of custom furniture, was stained Bronzed Walnut by Sherwin Williams.
The 4-foot Galley Workstation in the island, handles all the kitchen’s prep, serving, and cleanup needs. The Galley’s culinary tools include an upper tier cutting board, upper tier drying rack, 2 lower tier platforms, 11″ colander with non-slip handles, and 11” mixing bowl with lid and non-slip bottom. Learn more about the amazing Galley Workstation here. A Waterstone gantry faucet in a pewter finish combines a pull-down sprayer for maximum mobility and a articulated swivel spout. A water tap with reverse osmosis filter provides the highest quality drinking water. To keep a clean and sleek counter we installed a raised air switch for the garbage disposal and integrated soap dispenser. The island also houses the Thermador Sapphire 7-Program Dishwasher with a hidden touch control panel and a custom Walnut wood front. The cabinetry under the Galley Workstation features a trash roll out, as well as storage for the culinary tools.
Shortening the stairwell wall, and reframing around the stairs, which included shortening the handrail, also made room for a bi-fold door walk-in pantry with extra roll out storage and space for a small microwave. Above the panty doors is a remote controlled, electric motor powered, lift up cabinet door which hides a flat screen TV, used while the family is cooking.
To the right of the walk-in pantry is cold food storage. The Thermador, 30-inch Freedom Collection refrigerator and 24-inch built-in freezer column with internal ice maker are covered with matching cabinetry fronts. An open display space was designed above the units, creating an aesthetically beautiful wall. To the right of the refrigerator & freezer columns is a tall cabinet designed for the built-in Thermador steam and convection oven. The convention steam oven is a relatively new technology for homes, but its versatility and food quality is amazing. To the right of this is a pull-out appliance pantry which provides easy access and storage for a stand mixer, blender, and any other appliance you do not want to clutter the counter.
The most visible wall of the kitchen features the 36-inch Thermador Professional Series Harmony Gas Range with Griddle. Between the range and custom designed wood hood, a framed mosaic tile accent in the backsplash, creates a focal point. To clear the air, the Professional Series Thermador 42-inch ventilation insert provides excellent exhaust capabilities, as well as providing multi-level, vivid LED lights for beautiful illumination.
The wall cabinetry symmetrically flanks the custom hood, utilizing deeper wall cabinetry on each end, allowing for storage of oversized dishware. The base cabinetry on this wall is made up of drawers, except for the corner, which is a Kesseböhmer LeMans II. This specially designed shelf system allows ease of access in underutilized blind corners. The dual action articulation system with soft close mechanism ensures a smooth open and close.
Rounding the corner to the outside wall, the base cabinetry was built to a narrower depth, providing additional space for the island, as well as easier access to the new larger pass-thru window which serves the screen porch. The client selected Black Vermont granite countertops with an ogee edge to contrast the Linen White painted cabinetry.
The door to the screen porch was replaced with a Marvin Exterior Door with a raised panel at the bottom of the 3⁄4 glass door.
Marvin Windows replaced the other windows in the space increasing the energy efficiency and value of the home. To establish the breakfast nook, a bench with drawers and an upholstered seat was built into the bay area of the room.
Custom bookshelves were built with open shelves, cabinet doors, and drawers on either side of the fireplace. A new stone hearth and fireplace surround were installed. Above the existing mantel we built a recessed space for the flat screen television hiding all wiring inside the walls for a completely clean look.
The space that was once a desk was transformed into a bar area. The glass shelves and glass cabinet front liquor cabinet stand out. But this bar area has hidden secrets. Tucked beneath the black granite is a Thermador under-counter double drawer refrigerator with matching wood front panels. They blend in perfectly with the cabinets. A wireless printer is easily accessed on a slide out drawer. Plus, what looks like merely wooden panels on the wall are concealing recessed storage for more bottles and glasses!
Overhead recessed lighting and speaker system provide illumination and entertainment through the entire space.
This luxury home had original, solid oak flooring through most of the first floor which the homeowner obviously wanted to keep but were in desperate need of repair and refinishing. Our master craftsmen wove in new wood flooring to match the old where needed, particularly where walls had been changed and where the floor was damaged. We sanded the floors, smoothing away years of wear and tear. The entire wood floor was then uniformly stained, making it impossible to differentiate where any repairs were made.
If this renovation has inspired you, then contact us today! There is no limit to our Dimensions.

The in-law suite kitchen could only be in a small corner of the basement. The kitchen design started with the question: how small can this kitchen be? The compact layout was designed to provide generous counter space, comfortable walking clearances, and abundant storage. The bold colors and fun patterns anchored by the warmth of the dark wood flooring create a happy and invigorating space.
SQUARE FEET: 140

The owners of this kitchen had spent the money to upgrade the finishes in their kitchen upon building the home 12 years ago, but after living in the space for several years they realized how nonfunctional the layout really was. The (then) two preschool aged children had grown into busy, hungry teenagers with many friends who also liked to hang out at the house. So the family needed a more functional kitchen with better traffic flow, space for daily activities revolving around the kitchen at different times of day, and a kitchen that could accommodate cooking for and serving large groups. Furthermore, the dark, traditional finishes no longer reflected the homeowners’ style. They requested a brighter, more relaxed, coastal style that reflected their love of the seaside cities they like to visit.
Originally, the kitchen was U-shaped with a narrow island in the middle. The island created narrow aisles that bottle-necked at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and cooktop areas. There was a pass-through from the foyer into the kitchen, but the owners never liked that the pass-through was also located so close to the powder room. The awkward proximity was unappealing and made guests feel uncomfortable.
The kitchen’s storage was made up of lots of narrow cabinets, apothecary drawers, clipped corner units, and very few drawers. It lacked useful storage for the larger items the family used on a daily basis. And the kitchen’s only pantry was small closet that had only builder-grade, narrow shelving with no illumination to be able to see the contents inside.
Overall, the kitchen’s lighting plan was poorly executed. Only six recessed cans illuminated the entire kitchen and nook areas. The under cabinet lighting was not evenly distributed either. In fact, the builder had mis-placed the under cabinet lighting around the decorative pilasters which made for choppy, dark cubbies. Further, the builder didn’t include any lighting over the sink or the bar area, which meant whoever was doing the dishes was always in their own shadow. That, coupled with the steep overhang of the game room above made the bar area feel like a dim, cavernous space that wasn’t inviting or task oriented. The kitchen looked out into the main living space, but the raised bar and a narrow wall (which held the only large cabinet in the kitchen) created more of a barrier than a relationship to the living room or breakfast nook. In fact, one couldn’t even see the breakfast nook from the cooktop or sink areas due to its orientation. The raised bar top was too narrow to comfortably sit to either dine at or chat from due to the lack of knee space. The the homeowners confided that the kitchen felt more like a dark, dirty prison than place where the family, or their guests, wanted to gather and commune.
The clients' needs and desires were:
➢ to create a kitchen that would be a space the family loved to be in; to relate to the adjacent spaces all around, and to have better flow for entertaining large groups
➢ to remove the walls between the breakfast nook and living area and to be able to utilize the natural light from the windows in both those areas
➢ to incorporate a functional chopping block for prepping fresh food for home cooked meals, an island with a large sink and drain board, 2 pull out trash cans, and seating for at least the 2 teens to eat or do homework
➢ to design a kitchen and breakfast nook with an airy, coastal, relaxed vibe that blended with the rest of the house's coastal theme
➢ to integrate a layered lighting plan which would include ample general illumination, specific task lighting, decorative lighting, and lots of illuminated storage
➢ to design a kitchen with not only more storage for all the husband’s kitchen gadgets and collection of oils and spices, but smart storage, including a coffee/breakfast bar and a place to store and conceal the toaster oven and microwave
➢ to find a way to utilize the large open space between the kitchen, pantry area, and breakfast nook
Twelve Stones Designs achieved the owner's goals by:
➢ removing the walls between the kitchen and living room to allow the natural light to filter in from the adjacent rooms and to create a connection between the kitchen, nook, and living spaces for a sense of unity and communion
➢ removing the existing pantry and designing 3 large pantry style cabinets with LED tape lights and rollout drawers to house lots of kitchen appliances, gadgets, and tons of groceries. We also took the cabinets all the way up to the 9’ ceiling for additional storage for seasonal items and bulk storage.
➢ designing 2 islands - 1 with a gorgeous black walnut chopping block that houses a drawer for chopping and carving knives and a custom double pull out trash unit for point of use utilization - and 1 that houses the dishwasher, a large Blanco Gourmet sink with integrated drain board, woven baskets for fresh root vegetables and kitchen towels, plenty of drawer storage for kitchen items, and bar seating for up to 4 diners.
➢ closing off the space between the kitchen and the powder room to create a beautiful new private alcove for the powder room as well as adding some decorative storage. This also gave us space to include more tall storage near the new range for precision placement of the husband’s extensive oil and spice collection as well as a location for a combo-steam oven the wife wanted for baking and cooking healthy meals.
The project is enhanced functionally by:
➢ incorporated USB and standard receptacles for the kids’ laptops and phone charging in the large island
➢ designing the small island to include additional open shelving for items used on a daily basis such as a variety of bowls, plates, and colanders. This set up also works well for the husband who prefers to “plate” his dinners in restaurant-style fashion before presenting them to the table.
➢ the integration of specific storage units, such as double stacked cutlery drawers, a custom spice pull-out, a Kuerig coffee and tea pod drawer, and custom double stacked utensil drawers
➢ moving the refrigerator to the old oven location - this eliminated the bottle neck as well as created a better relationship to the eating table. It also utilizes the floor space between the pantry, nook, and kitchen
➢ creating a banquet style breakfast nook - this banquette seating not only doubles the amount of seating for large gatherings but it better utilizes the odd space between the kitchen and the previous nook area. It also helps to create a distinct pathway from the mudroom room through the pantry area, kitchen, nook, and living room.
➢ the coffee/breakfast bar area which includes the perfect location for the concealed microwave and toaster oven, convenient storage for the coffee pods and tea accoutrements. Roll-out drawers below also house the smoothie maker, hot water kettle, and a plethora of smoothie-making ingredients such as protein powders, smoothie additives, etc. Furthermore, the drawers below the Keurig house measuring utensil, cutlery, baking supplies and tupperware storage.
➢ incorporating lots of wide drawers and pullouts to accommodate large cookware.
➢ utilizing as much vertical space as possible by building storage to the ceiling which accommodates the family’s abundant amount of serving platters, baking sheets, bakeware, casserole dishes, and additional cutting boards.
The project is enhanced aesthetically by:
➢ new 5-piece Versailles pattern porcelain tile that now seamlessly joins the entire down stairs area together creating a bright, cohesiveness feeling instead of choppy separated spaces - it also adds a coastal feeling
➢ designing a cabinet to conceal the microwave and toaster oven
➢ the coastal influenced light fixtures over the nook table and island
➢ the sandy colors of the Langdon Cambria countertops. The swirling pattern and sparkling quartz pieces remind the homeowner of black-and-tan sandy beaches
➢ the striped banquet seating whose creamy white background and blue-green stripes were the inspiration for the cabinet and wall colors.
➢ All the interior doors were painted black to coordinate with the blacks and grays in the backsplash tile and countertop. This also adds a hint of tailored formality to an otherwise casual space.
➢ the use of WAC's Oculux small aperture LED units for the overhead lighting complimented with Diode LED strips for task lighting under the cabinets and inside the pantry and glass wall cabinets. All of the lighting applications are on separate dimmer switches.
Innovative uses of materials or construction methods by Realty Restoration LLC:
➢ Each 1-1/2” x 3” block of reclaimed end-grain black walnut that makes up the center island chopping block was hand milled and built in the shop. It was designed to look substantial and proportional to the surrounding elements, executed by creating the 4 inch tall top with a solid wood chamfered edge band.
➢ The metal doors on either side of the vent hood were also custom designed for this project and built in the Realty Restoration LLC shop. They are made 1x2, 11-gauge mild steel with ribbed glass. Weighing 60 lbs a piece, heavy duty cabinet hinges were added to support the weight of the door and keep them from sagging.
➢ Under-cabinet receptacles were added along the range wall in order to have a clean, uninterrupted backsplash.
Design obstacles to overcome:
➢ Because we were removing the demising walls between the kitchen and living room, we had to find a way to plumb and vent the new island. We did this by tunneling through the slab (the slab had post tension cables which prevented us from just trenching) to run a new wet vent through a nearby structural wall. We pulled the existing hot and cold lines between upper floor joists and ran them down the structural wall as well and up through a conduit in the tunnel.
➢ Since we were converting from wall overs to a gas range it allowed us to utilize the 220 feed for the wall ovens to provide a new sub panel for all the new kitchen circuits
➢ Due to framing deficiencies inherited from the original build there was a 1-1/2” differential in the floor-to-ceiling height over a 20 foot span; by utilizing the process of cutting and furring coupled with the crown moulding details on the cabinet elevations we were able to mask the problem and provide seamless transitions between the cabinet components.
Evidence of superior craftsmanship:
➢ uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind metal “X” end panels on the large island. The end panels were custom made in the Realty Restoration LLC shop and fitted to the exact dimensions of the island. The welding seams are completely indistinguishable - the posts look like they are cut from a single sheet of metal
➢ square metal posts on the small island were also custom made and designed to compliment and carry through the metal element s throughout the kitchen
➢ the beautiful, oversized end panels on the pantry cabinets which give the breakfast nook a tailored look
➢ integrating a large format 5 piece Versailles tile pattern to seamlessly flow from the existing spaces into the new kitchen space
➢ By constructing a custom cabinet that jogged around a corner we could not remodel (housing the entry way coat closet) we were able to camouflage the adjacent wall offset within the upper and lower cabinets. By designing around the existing jog in the structural walls we accomplished a few things: we were able to find the space to house, and hide, the microwave and toaster oven yet still have a clean cohesive appearance from the kitchen side. Additionally, the owners were able to keep their much needed coat closet and we didn’t have to increase the budget with unnecessary structural work.

This homeowner had extensive collections of both high end wines and bourbon. Wine and bourbon require completely different storage solutions, so naturally, two unique and completely separate rooms were created to showcase them both. The homeowners were fantastic in meeting with our team to collaborate on a bourbon room and wine cellar design that worked within their special spaces and budget.
The House itself has a rustic, yet refined and modern farmhouse feel throughout. The modern, elegant, yet vintage style look of the small wine cellar, especially, fit seamlessly with the interior design.
The Bourbon cellar is not cooled, but resides in a shaded interior section within the house as to maintain a constant temperature. Additionally, with close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, sunny Ladera Ranch, a community in Orange County, California never really sees average temperatures above 80 Degrees.
The Bourbon Room showcases a custom wrought iron door, and upon entering features a modular style show cabinet with multiple levels. Custom wine cellar doors, and custom wrought iron doors truly add that special feeling and look to your walk in wine room. A door used for a wine room would be fitted with dual pane glass as to better maintain temperature and humidity within. A room such as this could also double as craft beer storage. Beer storage, requires bottles to stand straight up as to not rust the cap, as well as compress any remaining yeast residues at the bottom of the bottle instead of mixed throughout. Craft beer as a whole has become an incredibly burgeoning industry, especially in places like San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Francisco in California, and Portland in Oregon.
The small wine cellar / wine closet / wine room is located right off the kitchen, allowing easy access for social gatherings or just to bring out that special wine with dinner. This small walk in wine cellar incorporates a custom wrought iron door as well, fitted with glass as discussed prior.
The wine room has one solid wall of individual bottle storage, leading into the showcase wall with room for case storage and more individual bottle storage above the countertop and decanting area. The homeowner also shows a rogar wine bottle opener - a rustic, yet timeless contemporary style that's here to stay in wine rooms, wine closets, and large custom wine cellars throughout the US.
Vintage Cellars has built gorgeous custom wine cellars and wine storage rooms across the United States and World for over 25 years. We are your go-to business for anything wine cellar and wine storage related! Whether you're interested in a wine closet, wine racking, custom wine racks, a custom wine cellar door, or a cooling system for your existing space, Vintage Cellars has you covered!
We carry all kinds of wine cellar cooling and refrigeration systems, incuding: Breezaire, CellarCool, WhisperKool, Wine Guardian, CellarPro and Commercial systems.
We also carry many types of Wine Refrigerators, Wine Cabinets, and wine racking types, including La Cache, Marvel, N'Finity, Transtherm, Vinotheque, Vintage Series, Credenza, Walk in wine rooms, Climadiff, Riedel, Fontenay, and VintageView.
Vintage Cellars also does work in many styles, including Contemporary and Modern, Rustic, Farmhouse, Traditional, Craftsman, Industrial, Mediterranean, Mid-Century, Industrial and Eclectic.
Some locations we cover often include: San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Corona Del Mar, Del Mar, La Jolla, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Huntington Beach, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, Orange County, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Bel Air, Los Angeles, Encinitas, Cardiff, Coronado, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, San Marino, Ladera Heights, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Westwood, Hancock Park, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove, Laguna Niguel, Torrey Pines, Thousand Oaks, Coto De Caza, Coronado Island, San Francisco, Danville, Walnut Creek, Marin, Tiburon, Hillsborough, Berkeley, Oakland, Napa, Sonoma, Agoura Hills, Hollywood Hills, Laurel Canyon, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Piedmont, Paso Robles, Carmel, Pebble Beach
Contact Vintage Cellars today with any of your Wine Cellar needs!
(800) 876-8789
Vintage Cellars
904 Rancheros Drive
San Marcos, California 92069
(800) 876-8789

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Sunbury, OH
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Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
The Klimala’s and their three kids are no strangers to moving, this being their fifth house in the same town over the 20-year period they have lived there. “It must be the 7-year itch, because every seven years, we seem to find ourselves antsy for a new project or a new environment. I think part of it is being a designer, I see my own taste evolve and I want my environment to reflect that. Having easy access to wonderful tradesmen and a knowledge of the process makes it that much easier”.
This time, Klimala’s fell in love with a somewhat unlikely candidate. The 1950’s ranch turned cape cod was a bit of a mutt, but it’s location 5 minutes from their design studio and backing up to the high school where their kids can roll out of bed and walk to school, coupled with the charm of its location on a private road and lush landscaping made it an appealing choice for them.
“The bones of the house were really charming. It was typical 1,500 square foot ranch that at some point someone added a second floor to. Its sloped roofline and dormered bedrooms gave it some charm.” With the help of architect Maureen McHugh, Klimala’s gutted and reworked the layout to make the house work for them. An open concept kitchen and dining room allows for more frequent casual family dinners and dinner parties that linger. A dingy 3-season room off the back of the original house was insulated, given a vaulted ceiling with skylights and now opens up to the kitchen. This room now houses an 8’ raw edge white oak dining table and functions as an informal dining room. “One of the challenges with these mid-century homes is the 8’ ceilings. I had to have at least one room that had a higher ceiling so that’s how we did it” states Klimala.
The kitchen features a 10’ island which houses a 5’0” Galley Sink. The Galley features two faucets, and double tiered rail system to which accessories such as cutting boards and stainless steel bowls can be added for ease of cooking. Across from the large sink is an induction cooktop. “My two teen daughters and I enjoy cooking, and the Galley and induction cooktop make it so easy.” A wall of tall cabinets features a full size refrigerator, freezer, double oven and built in coffeemaker. The area on the opposite end of the kitchen features a pantry with mirrored glass doors and a beverage center below.
The rest of the first floor features an entry way, a living room with views to the front yard’s lush landscaping, a family room where the family hangs out to watch TV, a back entry from the garage with a laundry room and mudroom area, one of the home’s four bedrooms and a full bath. There is a double sided fireplace between the family room and living room. The home features pops of color from the living room’s peach grass cloth to purple painted wall in the family room. “I’m definitely a traditionalist at heart but because of the home’s Midcentury roots, I wanted to incorporate some of those elements into the furniture, lighting and accessories which also ended up being really fun. We are not formal people so I wanted a house that my kids would enjoy, have their friends over and feel comfortable.”
The second floor houses the master bedroom suite, two of the kids’ bedrooms and a back room nicknamed “the library” because it has turned into a quiet get away area where the girls can study or take a break from the rest of the family. The area was originally unfinished attic, and because the home was short on closet space, this Jack and Jill area off the girls’ bedrooms houses two large walk-in closets and a small sitting area with a makeup vanity. “The girls really wanted to keep the exposed brick of the fireplace that runs up the through the space, so that’s what we did, and I think they feel like they are in their own little loft space in the city when they are up there” says Klimala.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Photography by: Carlos Vergara
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Mini Mudroom with Beadboard Backing, Glazed Moldings and Wood Benchtop.
Designed by Michelle Langley and Fabricated/Installed by Closet Factory Washington DC.

The floor-to-ceiling cabinets provide customized, practical storage for hats, gloves, and shoes and just about anything else that comes through the door. To minimize scratches or dings, wainscoting was installed behind the bench for added durability.
Kara Lashuay
18
