Search results for "Space optimization" in Home Design Ideas

Our clients, a family of professionals with 2 young kids, approached us to renovate their early 2000’s Toronto home to make it better suit the needs of their family. Although they were happy with the Kitchen layout, they requested that we update the existing cabinetry, and add additional cabinetry for increased storage. In the Laundry Room, they needed a storage solution for cleaning materials, and an updated laundry sink. They wanted the Basement to be a comfortable family space to spend time together, and for the kids to have a space to play.
The Kitchen cabinets were dated and starting to fall apart, and the Master En-Suite was dated and awkwardly shaped, with a tight walk-in shower.
In the Basement, the HVAC bulkhead was awkward and unsightly, and the space was not ideal for the kids to play, due to outdated carpeting, and a lack of storage space for their toys.
We spent time getting to know our clients to design a space that optimized functionality and comfort for their family.
In the Kitchen, we kept the existing layout, but added a tall cabinet for pantry and broom storage. A new island was built with a space to accommodate a built-in microwave, to keep it from cluttering the countertop. The new white oak tall cabinets and island cabinets were complimented by light coloured marble-looking quartz countertops and the handmade subway tile backsplash for a fresh, updated look.
In the Master Ensuite, we replaced the large, dated deck-mounted tub with a semi-freestanding tub, tucked nicely into the corner. The extra space this created allowed us to add a walk-in shower without the awkward angle that had existed prior to the renovation. The new walk-in shower featured a ceiling mounted showerhead, and a useful ledge for toiletries. We even had enough space to add a bonus make-up table to match the new double vanity. Both were custom built to be floating for a modern look, and easier maintenance.
In the Laundry Room, we installed the washer and dryer side by side, instead of stacked. This allowed for a long working countertop and upper storage cabinets that were custom built. Additionally, a hanging rack installed above the sink is perfect for drying small items, and the adjustable shelves and dividers in the custom built cabinetry will provide plenty of convenient space to store cleaning materials.
In the Basement, we widened the bulkhead to allow us to center the wall-mounted TV, and added custom media cabinets with floating shelves to accommodate electronics.
The space was made more comfortable for the kids to play with new vinyl heated flooring, and tall cabinets with adjustable shelves, dividers, and deep drawers to keep all of their toys organized.
All of these updates provided our clients with a home that fits their family’s needs and lifestyle.
If your home isn’t functional for your family, contact us to learn more. We’re the Renovator You Can Count On!

Our clients, a family of professionals with 2 young kids, approached us to renovate their early 2000’s Toronto home to make it better suit the needs of their family. Although they were happy with the Kitchen layout, they requested that we update the existing cabinetry, and add additional cabinetry for increased storage. In the Laundry Room, they needed a storage solution for cleaning materials, and an updated laundry sink. They wanted the Basement to be a comfortable family space to spend time together, and for the kids to have a space to play.
The Kitchen cabinets were dated and starting to fall apart, and the Master En-Suite was dated and awkwardly shaped, with a tight walk-in shower.
In the Basement, the HVAC bulkhead was awkward and unsightly, and the space was not ideal for the kids to play, due to outdated carpeting, and a lack of storage space for their toys.
We spent time getting to know our clients to design a space that optimized functionality and comfort for their family.
In the Kitchen, we kept the existing layout, but added a tall cabinet for pantry and broom storage. A new island was built with a space to accommodate a built-in microwave, to keep it from cluttering the countertop. The new white oak tall cabinets and island cabinets were complimented by light coloured marble-looking quartz countertops and the handmade subway tile backsplash for a fresh, updated look.
In the Master Ensuite, we replaced the large, dated deck-mounted tub with a semi-freestanding tub, tucked nicely into the corner. The extra space this created allowed us to add a walk-in shower without the awkward angle that had existed prior to the renovation. The new walk-in shower featured a ceiling mounted showerhead, and a useful ledge for toiletries. We even had enough space to add a bonus make-up table to match the new double vanity. Both were custom built to be floating for a modern look, and easier maintenance.
In the Laundry Room, we installed the washer and dryer side by side, instead of stacked. This allowed for a long working countertop and upper storage cabinets that were custom built. Additionally, a hanging rack installed above the sink is perfect for drying small items, and the adjustable shelves and dividers in the custom built cabinetry will provide plenty of convenient space to store cleaning materials.
In the Basement, we widened the bulkhead to allow us to center the wall-mounted TV, and added custom media cabinets with floating shelves to accommodate electronics.
The space was made more comfortable for the kids to play with new vinyl heated flooring, and tall cabinets with adjustable shelves, dividers, and deep drawers to keep all of their toys organized.
All of these updates provided our clients with a home that fits their family’s needs and lifestyle.
If your home isn’t functional for your family, contact us to learn more. We’re the Renovator You Can Count On!

Our clients, a family of professionals with 2 young kids, approached us to renovate their early 2000’s Toronto home to make it better suit the needs of their family. Although they were happy with the Kitchen layout, they requested that we update the existing cabinetry, and add additional cabinetry for increased storage. In the Laundry Room, they needed a storage solution for cleaning materials, and an updated laundry sink. They wanted the Basement to be a comfortable family space to spend time together, and for the kids to have a space to play.
The Kitchen cabinets were dated and starting to fall apart, and the Master En-Suite was dated and awkwardly shaped, with a tight walk-in shower.
In the Basement, the HVAC bulkhead was awkward and unsightly, and the space was not ideal for the kids to play, due to outdated carpeting, and a lack of storage space for their toys.
We spent time getting to know our clients to design a space that optimized functionality and comfort for their family.
In the Kitchen, we kept the existing layout, but added a tall cabinet for pantry and broom storage. A new island was built with a space to accommodate a built-in microwave, to keep it from cluttering the countertop. The new white oak tall cabinets and island cabinets were complimented by light coloured marble-looking quartz countertops and the handmade subway tile backsplash for a fresh, updated look.
In the Master Ensuite, we replaced the large, dated deck-mounted tub with a semi-freestanding tub, tucked nicely into the corner. The extra space this created allowed us to add a walk-in shower without the awkward angle that had existed prior to the renovation. The new walk-in shower featured a ceiling mounted showerhead, and a useful ledge for toiletries. We even had enough space to add a bonus make-up table to match the new double vanity. Both were custom built to be floating for a modern look, and easier maintenance.
In the Laundry Room, we installed the washer and dryer side by side, instead of stacked. This allowed for a long working countertop and upper storage cabinets that were custom built. Additionally, a hanging rack installed above the sink is perfect for drying small items, and the adjustable shelves and dividers in the custom built cabinetry will provide plenty of convenient space to store cleaning materials.
In the Basement, we widened the bulkhead to allow us to center the wall-mounted TV, and added custom media cabinets with floating shelves to accommodate electronics.
The space was made more comfortable for the kids to play with new vinyl heated flooring, and tall cabinets with adjustable shelves, dividers, and deep drawers to keep all of their toys organized.
All of these updates provided our clients with a home that fits their family’s needs and lifestyle.
If your home isn’t functional for your family, contact us to learn more. We’re the Renovator You Can Count On!
Find the right local pro for your project

Clear and uncluttered, this modern Scandinavian-inspired kitchen has it all! Functional and designed for optimal efficiency, its neutral tones are timeless.
Each aspect has been designed to ensure better efficiency in the kitchen. With the many drawers and large work surfaces, the space is optimized and offers a clean and refreshing look. The long and narrow window under the cabinets adds natural light incorporating nature and greenery into the kitchen.
Designed in lacquered MDF and custom-made veneered oak with a plank effect, this Scandinavian-style kitchen was created by the team of kitchen designers in Montreal.

This spice cabinet was a unique design because the homeowner loves to cook, and wanted to utilize the limited cabinetry space to optimize all the spices she likes to cook with. So we came up with a concept that not only maximizes her space, but also close to the stove top.

This Bozeman, Montana tiny house residence blends an innovative use of space with high-performance Glo aluminum doors and proper building orientation. Situated specifically, taking advantage of the sun to power the Solar panels located on the southern side of the house. Careful consideration given to the floor plan allows this home to maximize space and keep the small footprint.
Full light exterior doors provide multiple access points across this house. The full lite entry doors provide plenty of natural light to this minimalist home. A full lite entry door adorned with a sidelite provide natural light for the cozy entrance.
This home uses stairs to connect the living spaces and bedrooms. The living and dining areas have soaring ceiling heights thanks to the inventive use of a loft above the kitchen. The living room space is optimized with a well placed window seat and the dining area bench provides comfortable seating on one side of the table to maximize space. Modern design principles and sustainable building practices create a comfortable home with a small footprint on an urban lot. The one car garage complements this home and provides extra storage for the small footprint home.

This modern green home offers both a vacation destination on Cape Cod near local family members and an opportunity for rental income.
FAMILY ROOTS. A West Coast couple living in the San Francisco Bay Area sought a permanent East Coast vacation home near family members living on Cape Cod. As academic professionals focused on sustainability, they sought a green, energy efficient home that was well-aligned with their values. With no green homes available for sale on Cape Cod, they decided to purchase land near their family and build their own.
SLOPED SITE. Comprised of a 3/4 acre lot nestled in the pines, the steeply sloping terrain called for a plan that embraced and took advantage of the slope. Of equal priority was optimizing solar exposure, preserving privacy from abutters, and creating outdoor living space. The design accomplished these goals with a simple, rectilinear form, offering living space on the both entry and lower/basement levels. The stepped foundation allows for a walk-out basement level with light-filled living space on the down-hill side of the home. The traditional basement on the eastern, up-hill side houses mechanical equipment and a home gym. The house welcomes natural light throughout, captures views of the forest, and delivers entertainment space that connects indoor living space to outdoor deck and dining patio.
MODERN VISION. The clean building form and uncomplicated finishes pay homage to the modern architectural legacy on the outer Cape. Durable and economical fiber cement panels, fixed with aluminum channels, clad the primary form. Cedar clapboards provide a visual accent at the south-facing living room, which extends a single roof plane to cover the entry porch.
SMART USE OF SPACE. On the entry level, the “L”-shaped living, dining, and kitchen space connects to the exterior living, dining, and grilling spaces to effectively double the home’s summertime entertainment area. Placed at the western end of the entry level (where it can retain privacy but still claim expansive downhill views) is the master suite with a built-in study. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, a second full bathroom, and laundry. The flexibility of the space—crucial in a house with a modest footprint—emerges in one of the guest bedrooms, which doubles as home office by opening the barn-style double doors to connect it to the bright, airy open stair leading up to the entry level. Thoughtful design, generous ceiling heights and large windows transform the modest 1,100 sf* footprint into a well-lit, spacious home. *(total finished space is 1800 sf)
RENTAL INCOME. The property works for its owners by netting rental income when the owners are home in San Francisco. The house especially caters to vacationers bound for nearby Mayo Beach and includes an outdoor shower adjacent to the lower level entry door. In contrast to the bare bones cottages that are typically available on the Cape, this home offers prospective tenants a modern aesthetic, paired with luxurious and green features. Durable finishes inside and out will ensure longevity with the heavier use that comes with a rental property.
COMFORT YEAR-ROUND. The home is super-insulated and air-tight, with mechanical ventilation to provide continuous fresh air from the outside. High performance triple-paned windows complement the building enclosure and maximize passive solar gain while ensuring a warm, draft-free winter, even when sitting close to the glass. A properly sized air source heat pump offers efficient heating & cooling, and includes a carefully designed the duct distribution system to provide even comfort throughout the house. The super-insulated envelope allows us to significantly reduce the equipment capacity, duct size, and airflow quantities, while maintaining unparalleled thermal comfort.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. The building’s shell and mechanical systems play instrumental roles in the home’s exceptional performance. The building enclosure reduces the most significant energy glutton: heating. Continuous super-insulation, thorough air sealing, triple-pane windows, and passive solar gain work together to yield a miniscule heating load. All active energy consumers are extremely efficient: an air source heat pump for heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation (ERV), and high efficiency appliances. The result is a home that uses 70% less energy than a similar new home built to code requirements.
OVERALL. The home embodies the owners’ goals and values while comprehensively enabling thermal comfort, energy efficiency, a vacation respite, and supplementary income.
PROJECT TEAM
ZeroEnergy Design - Architect & Mechanical Designer
A.F. Hultin & Co. - Contractor
Pamet Valley Landscape Design - Landscape & Masonry
Lisa Finch - Original Artwork
European Architectural Supply - Windows
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

James Stewart
Large urban loft-style medium tone wood floor living room photo in Phoenix with no fireplace, no tv and beige walls
Large urban loft-style medium tone wood floor living room photo in Phoenix with no fireplace, no tv and beige walls

When you open the back doors of the home of Nancy and Jeremy Campbell in Granville, you don’t just step out onto a patio. You enter an extension of a modern living space that just happens to be outdoors. Their patio’s unique design and setting provides the comfort and style of indoors while enjoying the natural beauty and fresh air of outdoors.
It all started with a rather desolate back yard. “It was completely blank, there was nothing back there,” Nancy remembers of the patio space of this 1972 split-level house they bought five years ago. With a blank slate to work with, the Campbells knew the key elements of what they wanted for their new outdoor space when they sat down with Travis Ketron of Ketron Custom Builders to design it. “We knew we wanted something covered so we could use it in the rain, and in the winter, and we knew we wanted a stone fireplace,” Nancy recalls.
Travis translated the Campbells’ vision into a design to satisfy outdoor entertaining and relaxing desires in all seasons. The new outdoor space is reminiscent of a vast, rustic great room complete with a stone fireplace, a vaulted ceiling, skylights, and ceiling fans, yet no walls. The space is completely open to the elements without any glass or doors on any of the sides, except from the house. Furnished like a great room, with a built-in music system as well, it’s truly an extension of indoor living and entertaining space, and one that is unaffected by rain. Jeremy comments, “We haven’t had to cover the furniture yet. It would have to be a pretty strong wind to get wet.” Just outside the covered patio is a quartet of outdoor chairs adorned with plush cushions and colorful pillows, positioned perfectly for users to bask in the sun.
In the design process, the fireplace emerged as the anchor of the space and set the stage for the outdoor space both aesthetically and functionally. “We didn’t want it to block the view. Then designing the space with Travis, the fireplace became the center,” remembers Jeremy. Placed directly across from the two sets of French doors leading out from the house, a Rumford fireplace and extended hearth of stone in neutral earth tones is the focal point of this outdoor living room. Seating for entertaining and lounging falls easily into place around it providing optimal viewing of the private, wooded back yard. When temperatures cool off, the fireplace provides ample warmth and a cozy setting to experience the change of seasons. “It’s a great fireplace for the space,” Jeremy says of the unique design of a Rumford style fireplace. “The way you stack the wood in the fireplace is different so as to get more heat. It has a shallower box, burns hotter and puts off more heat. Wood is placed in it vertically, not stacked.” Just in case the fireplace doesn’t provide enough light for late-night soirees, there is additional outdoor lighting mounted from the ceiling to make sure the party always goes on.
Travis brought the idea of the Rumford outdoor fireplace to the Campbells. “I learned about it a few years back from some masons, and I was intrigued by the idea then,” he says. “We like to do stuff that’s out of the norm, and this fireplace fits the space and function very well.” Travis adds, “People want unique things that are designed for them. That’s our style to do that for them.”
The patio also extends out to an uncovered area set up with patio tables for grilling and dining. Gray pavers flow throughout from the covered space to the open-air area. Their continuous flow mimics the feel of flooring that extends from a living room into a dining room inside a home. Also, the earth tone colors throughout the space on the pavers, fireplace and furnishings help the entire space mesh nicely with its natural surroundings.
A little ways off from both the covered and uncovered patio area is a stone fire pit ring. Removed by just the right distance, it provides a separate place for young adults to gather and enjoy the night.
Adirondack chairs and matching tables surround the outdoor fire pit, offering seating for anyone who doesn’t wish to stand and a place to set down ingredients for yummy fireside treats like s’mores.
Padded chairs outside the reach of the pavilion and the nearby umbrella the perfect place to kick back and relax in the sun. The colorful throw pillows and outdoor furniture cushions add some needed color and a touch of personality.
Enjoying the comforts of indoors while being outdoors is exactly what the Campbells are doing now, particularly when lounging on the comfortable wicker furniture that dominate most of the area. “My favorite part of the whole thing is the fireplace,” Nancy says.
Jeremy concludes, “There is no television, it would destroy the ambiance out there. We just enjoy listening to music and watching the fire.”

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

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Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
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Martin's master bathroom was a decently functional space with elements that had seen better days. The key elements included an old tub/shower combo, which, while practical, lacked the aesthetic and space optimization he desired.
The bathroom overall felt dated, with worn-out fixtures and a lack of efficient storage solutions. The lighting was dim, making the space feel smaller and less inviting.
Martin selected new Waypoint Cabinetry in the Maple Rye finish, offering a contemporary, yet warm and inviting, look that was the first step of transforming the room's ambiance. The LG Forte Quartz countertops added a clean and sleek look, enhancing the bathroom's overall modern vibe.
He chose to optimize his wall space by selecting a surface mount storage mirror, which provided ample storage space and better organization.
To address the previously dim lighting and cave-like feel at his vanity, Martin selected a Kichler Zel Linear LED Bath Light. This significantly brightened the space, creating an illusion of a larger room and highlighting his new and modern bathroom design.
The highlight of this renovation was the custom-built shower. Replacing the outdated tub/shower combo. The combination of Pearl and Ocean Blue over-sized tiles for the walls and the niche, creates a visually striking effect. The White Hexagon floor tiles added a fun and stunning touch to the shower area. His shower was completed with the Delta Tetra Shower Trim Package, which ensures functionality while maintaining the contemporary luxury.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

when designing a functional and well-organized walk-in closet that suits your specific storage needs and style preferences. you need to consider the following:
1. Assess your storage needs: Take stock of your clothing, accessories, and other items to determine the amount and type of storage required. Consider the quantity of hanging space, shelving, and drawer space you'll need for different categories of items.
2. Plan the layout: Design a layout that optimizes the available space and suits your workflow. Consider the placement of different storage elements like shelves, hanging rods, and drawers. Ensure that the layout provides easy access to items and facilitates efficient organization.
3. Maximize vertical space: Utilize the vertical space in your closet by incorporating floor-to-ceiling shelves and hanging rods. This will help maximize storage capacity and keep items within reach.

Martin's master bathroom was a decently functional space with elements that had seen better days. The key elements included an old tub/shower combo, which, while practical, lacked the aesthetic and space optimization he desired.
The bathroom overall felt dated, with worn-out fixtures and a lack of efficient storage solutions. The lighting was dim, making the space feel smaller and less inviting.
Martin selected new Waypoint Cabinetry in the Maple Rye finish, offering a contemporary, yet warm and inviting, look that was the first step of transforming the room's ambiance. The LG Forte Quartz countertops added a clean and sleek look, enhancing the bathroom's overall modern vibe.
He chose to optimize his wall space by selecting a surface mount storage mirror, which provided ample storage space and better organization.
To address the previously dim lighting and cave-like feel at his vanity, Martin selected a Kichler Zel Linear LED Bath Light. This significantly brightened the space, creating an illusion of a larger room and highlighting his new and modern bathroom design.
The highlight of this renovation was the custom-built shower. Replacing the outdated tub/shower combo. The combination of Pearl and Ocean Blue over-sized tiles for the walls and the niche, creates a visually striking effect. The White Hexagon floor tiles added a fun and stunning touch to the shower area. His shower was completed with the Delta Tetra Shower Trim Package, which ensures functionality while maintaining the contemporary luxury.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.

With a focus on simplicity, we have successfully converted this backyard into a versatile and functional space, utilizing a modular and contemporary paver design. By strategically placing architectural slabs within the lawn, we have established distinct outdoor rooms that cater to various activities, all within the convenience of a single backyard. The integration of rusted steel and concrete retaining walls not only levels the lawn but also optimizes the available space, providing ample room for the entire family to enjoy.
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