Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island. Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair. “We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia. The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design. “When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.” Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space. The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace. The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said. “Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said. Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

Transitional kids' porcelain tile and gray floor bathroom photo in Atlanta with gray walls, quartz countertops, shaker cabinets and blue cabinets

Tracy Simas
Kids' room - small transitional girl kids' room idea in Portland with multicolored walls

Inspiration for a coastal entryway remodel in Milwaukee

http://mollywinnphotography.com
Mid-sized country medium tone wood floor kitchen photo in Austin with a farmhouse sink, concrete countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, white cabinets and open cabinets

Mid-sized farmhouse galley slate floor and blue floor dedicated laundry room photo in Grand Rapids with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white walls, a side-by-side washer/dryer and white countertops

Designer: Rochelle McAvin Photographer: Karen Palmer Welcome to our stunning mid-century kitchen and bath makeover, designed with function and color. This home renovation seamlessly combines the timeless charm of mid-century modern aesthetics with the practicality and functionality required by a busy family. Step into a home where classic meets contemporary and every detail has been carefully curated to enhance both style and convenience. Kitchen Transformation: The heart of the home has been revitalized with a fresh, open-concept design. Sleek Cabinetry: Crisp, clean lines dominate the kitchen's custom-made cabinets, offering ample storage space while maintaining cozy vibes. Rich, warm wood tones complement the overall aesthetic. Quartz Countertops: Durable and visually stunning, the quartz countertops bring a touch of luxury to the space. They provide ample room for food preparation and family gatherings. Statement Lighting: 2 central pendant light fixtures, inspired by mid-century design, illuminates the kitchen with a warm, inviting glow. Bath Oasis: Our mid-century bath makeover offers a tranquil retreat for the primary suite. It combines retro-inspired design elements with contemporary comforts. Patterned Tiles: Vibrant, geometric floor tiles create a playful yet sophisticated atmosphere. The black and white motif exudes mid-century charm and timeless elegance. Floating Vanity: A sleek, vanity with clean lines maximizes floor space and provides ample storage for toiletries and linens. Frameless Glass Shower: The bath features a modern, frameless glass shower enclosure, offering a spa-like experience for relaxation and rejuvenation. Natural Light: Large windows in the bathroom allow natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Storage Solutions: Thoughtful storage solutions, including built-in niches and shelving, keep the bathroom organized and clutter-free. This mid-century kitchen and bath makeover is the perfect blend of style and functionality, designed to accommodate the needs of a young family. It celebrates the iconic design of the mid-century era while embracing the modern conveniences that make daily life a breeze.

Example of a kitchen design in Philadelphia

Inspiration for a contemporary bathroom remodel in San Diego

Ship-lap walls and sliding barn doors add a rustic flair to the kid-friendly recreational space.
Example of a large classic medium tone wood floor and brown floor family room design in New York with a standard fireplace, a brick fireplace and white walls

Example of a mid-sized transitional u-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen design in Boston with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, blue cabinets, quartzite countertops, gray backsplash, stone slab backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and gray countertops

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional gender-neutral carpeted and beige floor walk-in closet remodel in Detroit with recessed-panel cabinets and blue cabinets

Featuring R.D. Henry & Company
Mid-sized transitional single-wall medium tone wood floor kitchen photo in Chicago with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and stainless steel countertops

Example of a beach style master bedroom design in New York with gray walls and no fireplace

The Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project aims to create an exquisite outdoor living space that seamlessly blends functionality, aesthetics, and versatility. By incorporating a louvered roof system, folding doors, and an outdoor kitchen, this project offers the perfect setting for relaxation, entertainment, and culinary experiences. The centerpiece of this project is the louvered roof pergola. The louvered roof consists of adjustable slats that can be opened or closed, allowing for precise control over sunlight, shade, and ventilation. This feature enables occupants to adapt to changing weather conditions and preferences, providing a comfortable environment throughout the year. The pergola's folding doors provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. These doors can be fully opened to extend the living area or closed to create a more intimate setting. The doors are designed to maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, while also providing privacy and security when needed. The outdoor kitchen complements the pergola, offering a convenient and functional space for cooking and dining. Equipped with high-quality appliances, ample counter space, and storage options, the kitchen enables the preparation of gourmet meals in an outdoor setting. It can include features such as a grill, sink, refrigerator, and seating area, creating an inviting space for socializing and culinary delights. Benefits and Uses: The Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project provides numerous benefits and uses, including: Outdoor Entertainment: The pergola and outdoor kitchen create an ideal space for hosting gatherings, parties, and barbecues. The versatile design allows for flexible seating arrangements and the integration of audiovisual equipment for an immersive entertainment experience. Relaxation and Recreation: The outdoor living area offers a tranquil retreat for relaxation, reading, or enjoying the beauty of nature. The adjustable louvered roof provides control over sunlight and shade, ensuring comfort and protection from the elements. Al Fresco Dining: The outdoor kitchen encourages al fresco dining experiences, enabling homeowners to enjoy meals in the fresh air and picturesque surroundings. The well-equipped kitchen facilitates effortless food preparation and enhances the overall dining experience. Increased Property Value: The addition of a louvered roof pergola with folding doors and an outdoor kitchen enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the property. This can increase the value of the home and attract potential buyers in the future. Sustainability Considerations: Incorporating sustainable elements into the project is crucial. The louvered roof system can be designed to capture rainwater for irrigation purposes, reducing water consumption. The use of energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting in the outdoor kitchen minimizes energy consumption. Additionally, the choice of eco-friendly materials and landscaping practices ensures a sustainable and environmentally conscious design. Project Timeline and Budget: The project timeline will depend on the size and complexity of the outdoor living space. A professional design and construction team will be required to ensure the successful implementation of the project. The budget will vary based on the desired features, materials, and appliances, and should be established after careful consideration of all elements involved. In conclusion, the Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project presents an opportunity to transform an ordinary outdoor space into a luxurious and functional oasis. By incorporating a louvered roof system, folding doors, and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen, this project offers a versatile and aesthetically pleasing environment for entertainment, relaxation, and culinary experiences.

Kitchen - transitional kitchen idea in Houston

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW For many, extra time at home during COVID left them wanting more from their homes. Whether you realized the shortcomings of your space or simply wanted to combat boredom, a well-designed and functional home was no longer a want, it became a need. Tina found herself wanting more from her Old Irving Park home and reached out to The Kitchen Studio about adding function to her kitchen to make the most of the available real estate. At the end of the day, there is nothing better than returning home to a bright and happy space you love. And this kitchen wasn’t that for Tina. Dark and dated, with a palette from the past and features that didn’t make the most of the available square footage, this remodel required vision and a fresh approach to the space. Lead designer, Stephanie Cole’s main design goal was better flow, while adding greater functionality with organized storage, accessible open shelving, and an overall sense of cohesion with the adjoining family room. The original kitchen featured a large pizza oven, which was rarely used, yet its footprint limited storage space. The nearby pantry had become a catch-all, lacking the organization needed in the home. The initial plan was to keep the pizza oven, but eventually Tina realized she preferred the design possibilities that came from removing this cumbersome feature, with the goal of adding function throughout the upgraded and elevated space. Eliminating the pantry added square footage and length to the kitchen for greater function and more storage. This redesigned space reflects how she lives and uses her home, as well as her love for entertaining. The kitchen features a classic, clean, and timeless palette. White cabinetry, with brass and bronze finishes, contrasts with rich wood flooring, and lets the large, deep blue island in Woodland’s custom color Harbor – a neutral, yet statement color – draw your eye. The kitchen was the main priority. In addition to updating and elevating this space, Tina wanted to maximize what her home had to offer. From moving the location of the patio door and eliminating a window to removing an existing closet in the mudroom and the cluttered pantry, the kitchen footprint grew. Once the floorplan was set, it was time to bring cohesion to her home, creating connection between the kitchen and surrounding spaces. The color palette carries into the mudroom, where we added beautiful new cabinetry, practical bench seating, and accessible hooks, perfect for guests and everyday living. The nearby bar continues the aesthetic, with stunning Carrara marble subway tile, hints of brass and bronze, and a design that further captures the vibe of the kitchen. Every home has its unique design challenges. But with a fresh perspective and a bit of creativity, there is always a way to give the client exactly what they want [and need]. In this particular kitchen, the existing soffits and high slanted ceilings added a layer of complexity to the lighting layout and upper perimeter cabinets. While a space needs to look good, it also needs to function well. This meant making the most of the height of the room and accounting for the varied ceiling features, while also giving Tina everything she wanted and more. Pendants and task lighting paired with an abundance of natural light amplify the bright aesthetic. The cabinetry layout and design compliments the soffits with subtle profile details that bring everything together. The tile selections add visual interest, drawing the eye to the focal area above the range. Glass-doored cabinets further customize the space and give the illusion of even more height within the room. While her family may be grown and out of the house, Tina was focused on adding function without sacrificing a stunning aesthetic and dreamy finishes that make the kitchen the gathering place of any home. It was time to love her kitchen again, and if you’re wondering what she loves most, it’s the niche with glass door cabinetry and open shelving for display paired with the marble mosaic backsplash over the range and complimenting hood. Each of these features is a stunning point of interest within the kitchen – both brag-worthy additions to a perimeter layout that previously felt limited and lacking. Whether your remodel is the result of special needs in your home or simply the excitement of focusing your energy on creating a fun new aesthetic, we are here for it. We love a good challenge because there is always a way to make a space better – adding function and beauty simultaneously.

Shelves and slatwall with cabinets and worksurface
Example of a mid-sized transitional attached two-car garage workshop design in Dallas