After six years of living in their Huntley IL home, Chris and Meghan were tired of their dark, dingy, outdated kitchen and it was finally time for a long-anticipated change. “The kitchen is the place where we live, it’s where we do everything,” Meghan said. “It was important that it be a space where we wanted to be.” Meghan loves cooking and enjoys including their girls in healthy meal prepping, this led them to want a brighter, more enjoyable kitchen with increased functionality and improved storage. For Chris especially, the laundry room was an entirely dysfunctional eyesore. “We had a washer and a dryer, but it was all kind-of cobbled together!” Chris said. “There were always laundry piles everywhere, we weren’t really sure what we wanted to do in there, but it was time for us to make a change.” The mess of the space was stressful every time they walked in the door from the garage each day. Kids’ backpacks and shoes piled up haphazardly in the makeshift boot-bench closet left the family feeling disorganized and stressed. They needed space for folding clothes and locker cubbies to help keep the family organized. Having known Christine and Todd in the Huntley community for years, Chris and Meghan were familiar with their work. “We already trusted them personally and having seen their projects for years we knew they did top notch work. After we reviewed the initial round of designs, we knew that hiring them was definitely the right choice,” Meghan and Chris said. Although Chris had done a lot of work in their home himself, the kitchen and laundry room renovation was such a large undertaking that he didn’t want to steal time away from his family to spend what would surely be many long weekends doing the job himself. “That would not have been a wise choice for us,” Chris laughed. “Our designer, Michelle was very, very, easy to work with; anything we wanted to see or weren’t sure about, she went above and beyond to make this easy for us. She was easy to get hold of and always quick to respond,” the couple said. Michelle pulled ideas that mirrored the couple’s taste and style and was adept at directing the couple to limited choices that didn’t overwhelm them and kept the process moving. “I have a hard time making decisions. Michelle made the decision-making process so easy. I loved how she listened to what I liked and then presented three great options for me to choose from,” Meghan said. The main objectives for the kitchen were better storage solutions, they wanted the space to reflect their lifestyle and taste, and they wanted it to last for years with low maintenance. One of the first steps in creating a more functional kitchen was relocating the refrigerator, creating an improved workflow for the busy family. “We didn’t know that we could even move the refrigerator to a new location where it is now, that was something that we never would have thought of,” Chris said. “The new refrigerator location makes the kitchen feel so much bigger. We didn’t add any space, but our whole kitchen with the new design just seems like it’s so much larger than before!” Meghan said. The perimeter mist colored cabinets helped warm and brighten the entire room, while the graphite colored cabinets on the island added contrast. Using this fresh, clean color palette satisfied the couple’s desire for a bright space that was the exact opposite of what they had before. Organization accessories were also added to the cabinets such as a spice drawer tray and roll outs to create hidden convenience. “I absolutely love the hidden spices – it makes cooking so much more enjoyable!” Chris said. “And all the pull outs, and the double trash bin, who would think you could get so excited about organization!” the couple said in unison. One thing they hated in their original kitchen was how dark the space felt. Added lighting on the ceiling with the new light fixtures combined with the lighter cabinetry colors throughout solved this problem. “Our new kitchen has this warm, almost cozy feeling that our old kitchen never had, it’s just a space that I love spending my time in now,” Meghan said. The light airy feeling was accentuated with the use of floating white shelves on either side of the decorative range hood. “We have so much cabinetry space, the new design is amazing we actually have more storage space than we will ever need,” Meghan said. The island was extended to create more work surface and added space for stool seating. “The new island changes how we live. Now the kids can be in the kitchen with us, doing homework, eating breakfast, and the three of us have special dinners there when Chris is working late,” Meghan said. The Carrara Marmi Quartz countertops were chosen because they are, not only beautiful, but are made from hard-working material that doesn’t require maintenance. The white subway tile backsplash that wraps to the ceiling behind the focal point cooktop range/hood compliments the crisp white countertops perfectly, while brushed brass hardware and light fixtures keep the design fresh and new. The couple had a few fears at the beginning of the project, as most homeowners do. Their biggest fear was being out of their kitchen and laundry room for an extended time. The crew made it very easy for the family to work in a limited space keeping the washer and dryer hooked up the majority of the time, and also getting appliances working with minimal downtime. “They above and beyond accommodated us to get us through the process,” Meghan said. “They did a great job making sure we were as comfortable as possible throughout the process,” Chris added. “Our project manager DJ did a great job. He was very good at updating us on schedule changes, getting guys in as quickly as possible. Everyone that stepped in the house was nice and did great work,” said Chris. They thought Advance’s carpenter was phenomenal and were impressed when he took a conceptual idea from a photograph and worked with designer Michelle to create a one of a kind range/hood that has become the topic of conversation with friends and family who visit the new kitchen. “He was in our house literally every day for several weeks. He was easy to work with and good at what he did,” Meghan and Chris said. The focal point of the kitchen; a hand-crafted, custom-built ventilation hood was clad with handpicked reclaimed barnwood. Advance Design’s carpenter built the framework and the cladding to create a one-of-a-kind design element that the couple loves. “I think it was especially fun for him to create something unique from scratch, showcasing his talent in this area,” Meghan said. “I love that my kitchen is not like everyone else’s. I got to pick out the wood on my hood and watch it being built and was able to choose what pieces of wood went where on it. It’s totally unique.” Red Oak flooring was toothed-in throughout the kitchen and the rest of the first floor anywhere changes were made. Then the whole floor was refinished to tone down the orange undertones in the existing floor stain, ultimately changing the color complexion of the entire first floor. The result is a completely new feeling to the entire home. Renovating the laundry room was extremely important to Meghan and Chris, but they had trouble visualizing what the possibilities were for the seemingly small space. Michelle produced beautiful 3D illustrations that helped them envision the space in a whole new way. “I must have told Michelle 100 times that I am a visual person, seeing the designs in 3D made it so easy to make decisions and see what we could really do with our space,” Meghan said. A dividing wall and doorway were removed between the existing laundry room and hallway formerly containing a coat closet, providing space to design specialized graphite colored cabinetry matching the kitchen island to house custom storage cubbies for each family member. Adding the tall utility cabinetry in the new laundry area helped solve the storage issue, tucking away cleaning supplies, household items, and even the cat got its own cubby. “I love how everything is now hidden in its own space. I can’t tell you how much I hated coming home and seeing everything sitting around on counters,” Chris said. Electrical outlets were planned for the inside of utility cabinets, so devices could charge in hidden locations. Stacking the washer and dryer allowed for wider countertop space to provide a folding area and a special space for clothes to hang. “The way I do laundry has been completely transformed! I can actually fold clothes and hang them now right out of the washer and dryer,” Meghan said. “The end result in the kitchen and the laundry/mud room was an updated light and bright space, with a smarter work flow that better meets the needs of this family,” Michelle said. “I would totally recommend Advance Design,” Meghan said. “Sometimes I sit and just look at my kitchen and laundry room and think ‘Wow, I can’t believe I get to live here!’ It’s an understatement to say we love our new space.”

Beautiful couple with a precious child and a gorgeous Old Metairie home. Professional photos capture the reveal! This is a lovely traditional home with 18' ceilings! Family room has been reDESIGNED in a traditional style with chinoiserie inspirations. Bold colors including navy, coral and apple green set the stage! Notice the Antique Armoire, Secretary, and Chandelier. Curating a large set of original intaglios to be used was thrilling as I had to source in Europe for a perfect grouping of intaglios that were numerous and were also of museum quality! They are featured in the 9 Gold Framed Shadow Boxes above one sofa. These Original European Antique Intaglios provide a classic and luxury feel for that wall. Other details include the Oversized Ornate, Gold Antique Mirror, A Custom Handmade Ottoman on Plantation Casters, Gorgeous Slate Blue Custom Silk Draperies, Custom Iron Return Rods along with plenty of Antique Art throughout ! All smiles in this home ! Award Winning Luxury Interior Design Specializing in Creating UNIQUE Homes and Spaces for Clients in Old Metairie, Lakeview, Uptown and all of New Orleans. We are one of the only interior design firms specializing in marrying the old historic elements with new transitional pieces. Blending your antiques with new pieces will give you a UNIQUE home that will make a lasting statement. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your current home, your family room is a central room in your home so you want it to be comfortable, functional and beautiful. We will create a UNIQUE family room by cleverly and skillfully combining different shades and textures of color to create a soothing and relaxing family room retreat. Award Winning Luxury Interior Design Specializing in Creating UNIQUE Homes and Spaces for Clients in Old Metairie, Lakeview, Uptown and all of New Orleans. We are one of the only interior design firms specializing in marrying the old historic elements with new transitional pieces. Blending your antiques with new pieces will give you a UNIQUE home that will make a lasting statement. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your current home, your family room is a central room in your home so you want it to be comfortable, functional and beautiful. We will create a UNIQUE family room by cleverly and skillfully combining different shades and textures of color to create a soothing and relaxing family room retreat. These custom designed family rooms all boast the use of antiques and vintage pieces along with new elements to add interest making your family room UNIQUE! Making your room a 'statement' room that you friends will swoon over is accomplished first by the careful design sourcing and selection of the large pieces but the interior design details in the drapery, decor, pillows, art and greenery all combine to make you smile ! KHB Interiors New Orleans

Photo: Elaine Musiwa © 2015 Houzz
Inspiration for an eclectic bathroom remodel in New York

Bathroom - mid-century modern bathroom idea in Los Angeles

Photo: Rikki Snyder © 2015 Houzz
Example of a 1960s living room design in New York

Special Additions Cabinetry Dura Supreme - Sunbury House Door. Kitchen: Maple Country Traditions "C". Island: Lyptus Mocha Glaze. Designer: Dan Lombreglia

Special Additions Cabinetry Dura Supreme - Sunbury House Door. Kitchen: Maple Country Traditions "C". Island: Lyptus Mocha Glaze. Designer: Dan Lombreglia

Special Order Glass Colors for GlassCrafters' Full-Length Cabinet include: White, Black, Tinted Gray Mirror, Satin White, Satin Gray and Satin Bronze.

Special Additions - NFP Cabinetry - Innsbruck Door - Cherry Natural - Gloss Poly Finish
Eat-in kitchen - large contemporary l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Newark with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, granite countertops, blue backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Special Additions, Cabinetry, Dura Supreme, Gloss Foil, Bria, Frameless, Cream Gloss, Flat door, Slab door
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized contemporary u-shaped porcelain tile eat-in kitchen idea in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, black backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Ryan Patrick Kelly Photographs
Staircase - contemporary wooden straight open staircase idea in Edmonton

Great room - mid-sized contemporary medium tone wood floor and brown floor great room idea in Denver with white walls, a standard fireplace and a wood fireplace surround

Ryan Patrick Kelly Photographs
Example of a minimalist wooden floating open and glass railing staircase design in Edmonton

This beautiful kitchen was designed by Cathy from our Nashua showroom. This transitional Showplace kitchen is in a newly constructed ADA home, designed specifically around the homeowners’ needs and disability. The kitchen design features a versatile, flat-panel door style with a medium matte finish and quartz countertops. The dual height island and special sink/stove aprons allow for a wheelchair to slide underneath with ease, which gives all members of the family a chance to participate in meal prep and socialization within the kitchen. Another special ADA feature is a special wall oven that opens side to side instead of up and down, allowing easier access for anyone in a wheelchair. Other special features include decorative glass doors, plate organizer drawer, crown molding that fades into the wall, and a wood hood. An absolutely beautiful home with all the features needed to assist the homeowner with everyday life. Cabinets: Showplace Pendleton 275 Finish: Matte Autumn Countertops: Silestone quartz Color: Capri Limestone Hardware: Amerock 4465-WN & 4466-WN Cathy also designed many other rooms in this home, including 6 bathrooms, an office, a laundry/mudroom & a few other extras.

Beautiful couple with a precious child and a gorgeous Old Metairie home. Professional photos capture the reveal! This is a lovely traditional home with 18' ceilings! Family room has been reDESIGNED in a traditional style with chinoiserie inspirations. Bold colors including navy, coral and apple green set the stage! Notice the Antique Armoire, Secretary, and Chandelier. Curating a large set of original intaglios to be used was thrilling as I had to source in Europe for a perfect grouping of intaglios that were numerous and were also of museum quality! They are featured in the 9 Gold Framed Shadow Boxes above one sofa. These Original European Antique Intaglios provide a classic and luxury feel for that wall. Other details include the Oversized Ornate, Gold Antique Mirror, A Custom Handmade Ottoman on Plantation Casters, Gorgeous Slate Blue Custom Silk Draperies, Custom Iron Return Rods along with plenty of Antique Art throughout ! All smiles in this home ! Award Winning Luxury Interior Design Specializing in Creating UNIQUE Homes and Spaces for Clients in Old Metairie, Lakeview, Uptown and all of New Orleans. We are one of the only interior design firms specializing in marrying the old historic elements with new transitional pieces. Blending your antiques with new pieces will give you a UNIQUE home that will make a lasting statement. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your current home, your family room is a central room in your home so you want it to be comfortable, functional and beautiful. We will create a UNIQUE family room by cleverly and skillfully combining different shades and textures of color to create a soothing and relaxing family room retreat. Award Winning Luxury Interior Design Specializing in Creating UNIQUE Homes and Spaces for Clients in Old Metairie, Lakeview, Uptown and all of New Orleans. We are one of the only interior design firms specializing in marrying the old historic elements with new transitional pieces. Blending your antiques with new pieces will give you a UNIQUE home that will make a lasting statement. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your current home, your family room is a central room in your home so you want it to be comfortable, functional and beautiful. We will create a UNIQUE family room by cleverly and skillfully combining different shades and textures of color to create a soothing and relaxing family room retreat. These custom designed family rooms all boast the use of antiques and vintage pieces along with new elements to add interest making your family room UNIQUE! Making your room a 'statement' room that you friends will swoon over is accomplished first by the careful design sourcing and selection of the large pieces but the interior design details in the drapery, decor, pillows, art and greenery all combine to make you smile ! KHB Interiors New Orleans

Photo courtesy of Moen
Inspiration for a bathroom remodel

porcelain tile planks (up to 96" x 8")
Enclosed kitchen - large contemporary l-shaped porcelain tile and beige floor enclosed kitchen idea in Hawaii with flat-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, limestone countertops, beige backsplash, stone slab backsplash, paneled appliances and an island

This bathroom is almost unrecognisable from its original style. The dimensions have not altered but the feel of the space certainly has. Photo's by Andrew Ashton