Hightail Photography
Living room - mid-sized transitional formal and enclosed carpeted and multicolored floor living room idea in Minneapolis with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a media wall

See "5-Year Kitchen in Elgin" for the kitchen featured in this description. Bud Kane has remodeled nearly every room in his own home over many years. Now reaching his 70’s, he contemplated heading up a major kitchen and laundry room renovation himself, planning on doing the carpentry work with his own hands. “I was not convinced I would ever meet anyone who could do it as well as I could do it myself”, said Bud. Ruth and Bud spent 5 years visiting kitchen firms and interviewing designers. They couldn’t however bring themselves to pull the trigger on the project, until they met Advance Design Studio in 2015. “No one understood what I wanted”, said Ruth. She was continually frustrated by experiences with designers who weren’t hearing what was important to her. “Everyone kept designing my kitchen with what they thought it should look like; I couldn’t find anyone who would listen to me”! When they met designer Scott Christensen from Advance Design Studio, they liked him right away. He listened to Ruth and designed a kitchen that she loved, all the while interjecting years of wisdom and design expertise that Ruth appreciated. “The finished product is better than I expected”, says Ruth. “I respected Scott’s opinions and together we created the perfect place for me to bake with my grandkids and truly enjoy the kitchen and laundry room I’ve been dreaming of for many years!” The kitchen transformation began with removing the home’s soffits, and extending new painted maple cabinetry to the ceiling with the addition of an elegant crown molding. Ruth’s new Vita Mix holds a coveted place on her counter, and adjustments were planned to size the cabinets in conjunction with the under cabinet decorative light molding to fit this appliance just right. “This one small detail was really important to me”, says Ruth smiling. An elegant new island replaced the original island, complete with room for 3 stools where her grandchildren will sit to make home-made pasta every Thanksgiving, and cookies at Christmas time. “Traditions are very important in my family, and making my kitchen work to suit cherished activities with my family was the number one reason this renovation was so desired”, replied Ruth when asked about the island. A picture perfect new tea station replaced a cluttered unused desk area, creating a wonderful place to prepare hot drinks for sipping any season of the year while overlooking the couple’s wonderfully manicured gardens from the lovely 3 season’s room just off the kitchen. The soft sage island bead panel detail was repeated on the backsplash, replicating the feel of a fine old piece of furniture. The biggest problem with the laundry room was 3 doors, one from the garage, one from the closet, and one to the hallway. “Scott designed a pocket door, and oh what a dream it is now to bring groceries in from the garage!” exclaims Bud who grew to disdain this task! Doing laundry is now a breeze in this attractive new space that doubles as a wonderful pantry for the kitchen with room to store food items that didn’t have a home in the poorly designed original space. New Hickory distressed wood flooring was laid both in the kitchen and leading to the hall foyer. Soft gray wood-replicating porcelain was placed in the laundry area, making for an easily cleanable surface for what doubles as a mud room from the garage. Creamy tumbled marble graces an unobtrusive backsplash spilling onto shiny granite counter tops in a rich earthy pattern of fall colors that mimic colors throughout the home. Advance is known details that included custom crafted furniture toe kicks, luxurious crown moldings, and beaded under cabinet moldings. The kitchen is complete with a glass display cabinet showing Ruth’s treasured china tea collection. Early on, it was initially only their intention of purchasing cabinets for the new design. They were so impressed however with Advance Design’s complete program for budgeting, design, installation and management that it became clear to them both that they wanted Advance to handle the entire project from start to finish. “After seeing the quality work they did, coupled with the in-house team completely dedicated to our satisfaction, it became apparent there was no other choice but to hire them to handle everything. And we’re so glad we did, we have not one regret”, says Bud. “The attention to detail by the carpentry crew more than satisfied my perfectionist expectations of the finished carpentry,” exclaimed Bud. “Every one of Advance Design’s people we encountered from design through construction was wonderful. We’ve never met a group of people so dedicated to making sure we were happy with every single detail, and every single part of this experience”, said Ruth and Bud. Designer: Scott Christensen Photographer: Joe Nowak

Photo: Sarah Greenman © 2015 Houzz
Entryway - eclectic entryway idea in Dallas

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

This gorgeous European Poggenpohl Kitchen is the culinary center of this new modern home for a young urban family. The homeowners had an extensive list of objectives for their new kitchen. It needed to accommodate formal and non-formal entertaining of guests and family, intentional storage for a variety of items with specific requirements, and use durable and easy to maintain products while achieving a sleek contemporary look that would be a stage and backdrop for their glorious artwork collection. Solution: A large central island acts as a gathering place within the great room space. The tall cabinetry items such as the ovens and refrigeration are grouped on the wall to keep the rest of the kitchen very light and open. Luxury Poggenpohl cabinetry and Caesarstone countertops were selected for their supreme durability and easy maintenance. Warm European oak flooring is contrasted by the gray textured Poggenpohl cabinetry flattered by full width linear Poggenphol hardware. The tall aluminum toe kick on the island is lit from underneath to give it a light and airy luxurious feeling. To further accent the illuminated toe, the surface to the left of the range top is fully suspended 18” above the finished floor. A large amount of steel and engineering work was needed to achieve the floating of the large Poggenpohl cabinet at the end of the peninsula. The conversation is always, “how did they do that?” Photo Credit: Fred Donham of PhotographerLink

Stacey Zarin Goldberg, Aidan Design
Example of a classic kitchen design in DC Metro

Photo: Margaret Wright Photography © 2017 Houzz
Example of an eclectic family room design in Charleston

Philadelphia Encaustic-style Cement Tile - custom made and provided by Rustico Tile and Stone. Wholesale prices and worldwide shipping for Cement Tiles. Rustico Tile and Stone offers 2 types of this Concrete Tile. Our MeaLu Collection features this specific tile and other in-stock, ready-to-ship Cement tiles. Or customize your tile with designs from our Traditional Collection. Learn more by calling or emailing us today! (512) 260-9111 / info@rusticotile.com Bathroom design and installation completed by Drummonds UK - "Makers of Bathrooms"

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW This unit, located in a 4-flat owned by TKS Owners Jeff and Susan Klimala, was remodeled as their personal pied-à-terre, and doubles as an Airbnb property when they are not using it. Jeff and Susan were drawn to the location of the building, a vibrant Chicago neighborhood, 4 blocks from Wrigley Field, as well as to the vintage charm of the 1890’s building. The entire 2 bed, 2 bath unit was renovated and furnished, including the kitchen, with a specific Parisian vibe in mind. Although the location and vintage charm were all there, the building was not in ideal shape -- the mechanicals -- from HVAC, to electrical, plumbing, to needed structural updates, peeling plaster, out of level floors, the list was long. Susan and Jeff drew on their expertise to update the issues behind the walls while also preserving much of the original charm that attracted them to the building in the first place -- heart pine floors, vintage mouldings, pocket doors and transoms. Because this unit was going to be primarily used as an Airbnb, the Klimalas wanted to make it beautiful, maintain the character of the building, while also specifying materials that would last and wouldn’t break the budget. Susan enjoyed the hunt of specifying these items and still coming up with a cohesive creative space that feels a bit French in flavor. Parisian style décor is all about casual elegance and an eclectic mix of old and new. Susan had fun sourcing some more personal pieces of artwork for the space, creating a dramatic black, white and moody green color scheme for the kitchen and highlighting the living room with pieces to showcase the vintage fireplace and pocket doors. Photographer: @MargaretRajic Photo stylist: @Brandidevers Do you have a new home that has great bones but just doesn’t feel comfortable and you can’t quite figure out why? Contact us here to see how we can help!

Homeowners spend a lot of time in their bathroom. Whether it’s taking a shower, brushing their teeth, washing their face, or shaving, the bathroom is where they start and end their day. With so much time invested in the space, our client came to us with the vision of creating a master bathroom sanctuary. We created a design that enlarged the space three fold to incorporate an oversized shower, soaking tub, and his and her vanity area. They chose a calming white, gray, and blue color palette to finish the space and create a tranquil master bathroom oasis.

Each side of this closet was designed with these specific customers needs in mind. They have open storage for hanging clothing items as well as hidden storage and drawers for shoes and other items that can be tucked away. Photos by Chris Veith

owner in pursuit of simplicity, simplicity, simplicity. Keeping it simple is hard because, only the essential items must reflecting an owner's aesthetic. Simple is not always as simple as it looks! pictures by owner

http://www.seancostellophoto.com
Example of a classic u-shaped dark wood floor kitchen design in Los Angeles with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, beige backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Established in 1895 as a warehouse for the spice trade, 481 Washington was built to last. With its 25-inch-thick base and enchanting Beaux Arts facade, this regal structure later housed a thriving Hudson Square printing company. After an impeccable renovation, the magnificent loft building’s original arched windows and exquisite cornice remain a testament to the grandeur of days past. Perfectly anchored between Soho and Tribeca, Spice Warehouse has been converted into 12 spacious full-floor lofts that seamlessly fuse old-world character with modern convenience. Steps from the Hudson River, Spice Warehouse is within walking distance of renowned restaurants, famed art galleries, specialty shops and boutiques. With its golden sunsets and outstanding facilities, this is the ideal destination for those seeking the tranquil pleasures of the Hudson River waterfront. Expansive private floor residences were designed to be both versatile and functional, each with 3- to 4-bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a home office. Several residences enjoy dramatic Hudson River views. This open space has been designed to accommodate a perfect Tribeca city lifestyle for entertaining, relaxing and working. This living room design reflects a tailored “old-world” look, respecting the original features of the Spice Warehouse. With its high ceilings, arched windows, original brick wall and iron columns, this space is a testament of ancient time and old world elegance. The design choices are a combination of neutral, modern finishes such as the Oak natural matte finish floors and white walls, white shaker style kitchen cabinets, combined with a lot of texture found in the brick wall, the iron columns and the various fabrics and furniture pieces finishes used throughout the space and highlighted by a beautiful natural light brought in through a wall of arched windows. The layout is open and flowing to keep the feel of grandeur of the space so each piece and design finish can be admired individually. As soon as you enter, a comfortable Eames lounge chair invites you in, giving her back to a solid brick wall adorned by the “cappuccino” art photography piece by Francis Augustine and surrounded by flowing linen taupe window drapes and a shiny cowhide rug. The cream linen sectional sofa takes center stage, with its sea of textures pillows, giving it character, comfort and uniqueness. The living room combines modern lines such as the Hans Wegner Shell chairs in walnut and black fabric with rustic elements such as this one of a kind Indonesian antique coffee table, giant iron antique wall clock and hand made jute rug which set the old world tone for an exceptional interior. Photography: Francis Augustine

John Prouty
Example of a mid-sized trendy backyard concrete paver and rectangular water slide design in Phoenix

Laundry room - coastal laundry room idea in Boston

The SW-110S is a relatively small bathtub with a modern curved oval design. All of our bathtubs are made of durable white stone resin composite and available in a matte or glossy finish. This tub combines elegance, durability, and convenience with its high quality construction and chic modern design. This cylinder shaped freestanding tub will surely be the center of attention and will add a modern feel to your new bathroom. Its height from drain to overflow will give you plenty of space and comfort to enjoy a relaxed soaking bathtub experience. Item#: SW-110S Product Size (inches): 63 L x 31.5 W x 21.3 H inches Material: Solid Surface/Stone Resin Color / Finish: Matte White (Glossy Optional) Product Weight: 396.8 lbs Water Capacity: 82 Gallons Drain to Overflow: 13.8 Inches FEATURES This bathtub comes with: A complimentary pop-up drain (Does NOT include any additional piping). All of our bathtubs come equipped with an overflow. The overflow is built integral to the body of the bathtub and leads down to the drain assembly (provided for free). There is only one rough-in waste pipe necessary to drain both the overflow and drain assembly (no visible piping). Please ensure that all of the seals are tightened properly to prevent leaks before completing installation. If you require an easier installation for our free standing bathtubs, look into purchasing the Bathtub Rough-In Drain Kit for Freestanding Bathtubs.

Photography by William Quarles
Example of a transitional kitchen design in Charleston

Inspiration for a mid-sized master white tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile, white floor, single-sink, wallpaper ceiling and wallpaper bathroom remodel in Denver with recessed-panel cabinets, green cabinets, a two-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops and a built-in vanity