Search results for "Specific struggles" in Home Design Ideas

The customer originally wanted a copper fireplace surround, but the cost of metal was rising quickly at the time, so we suggested putting a steel surround up and using a bonze or copper patina. Photography by Greg Hoppe

Our clients really wanted old warehouse looking brick so we found just the thing in a thin brick format so that it wouldn't take up too much room in this cool bar off the living area.
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Wall color is Revere Pewter (HC-172) by Benjamin Moore. Chair is custom from Ethan Allen in discontinued fabric; see Fairfax chair http://www.ethanallen.com/en_US/shop-furniture-living-room-chairs-chaises/fairfax-chair/137171.html#q=fairfax&sz=18&start=1 for other fabric and finish options. Side table and decor is also from Ethan Allen.

Photography: Michael Hunter
Inspiration for a large 1950s medium tone wood floor enclosed dining room remodel in Austin with gray walls
Inspiration for a large 1950s medium tone wood floor enclosed dining room remodel in Austin with gray walls

Martha O'Hara Interiors, Interior Design & Photo Styling | Kyle Hunt & Partners, Builder | Troy Thies, Photography
Please Note: All “related,” “similar,” and “sponsored” products tagged or listed by Houzz are not actual products pictured. They have not been approved by Martha O’Hara Interiors nor any of the professionals credited. For information about our work, please contact design@oharainteriors.com.

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.”

Storing pots and pans is a typical struggle for most people. Stacking them provides the frustration of finding a place to store the lids. By adding pull-out drawers inside this 30” cabinet adjacent to the range, the Client has access to all of their cooking tools in reaching distance without having to rearrange the cabinet every time. And the lids? They fit right on top of their matching pot.
Rebecca Quandt

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.”

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.”

Designed by Bob Blanco for Shore & Country Kitchens. Custom Cabinetry in Classic Shaker Inset door with a decorative Bead around frame. Finishes are Alpine White on perimeter cabinetry and Matte Eclipse on Maple for the island. 36" Wolf Rangetop. Counter tops are Caesarstone London Grey Quartz. Backsplash tile is an oversized hand made subway in a very soft grey finish.

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.”

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.”

While the majority of APD designs are created to meet the specific and unique needs of the client, this whole home remodel was completed in partnership with Black Sheep Construction as a high end house flip. From space planning to cabinet design, finishes to fixtures, appliances to plumbing, cabinet finish to hardware, paint to stone, siding to roofing; Amy created a design plan within the contractor’s remodel budget focusing on the details that would be important to the future home owner. What was a single story house that had fallen out of repair became a stunning Pacific Northwest modern lodge nestled in the woods!

When this family wanted to renovate their 1-bedroom apartment, they called on Houseplay to help. Together, we created a cozy, modern layout that both facilitates relationships and increases the value of their home.
Specifically, the new layout features a larger bathroom, a new standing shower, an open plan kitchen with an island, and a laundry closet too. Our team installed new bamboo flooring, new doors and mouldings, and new recessed and feature lighting throughout the space; we also painted the entire apartment.
It’s amazing what a difference the layout of a space can make. If you’re struggling with a sub-par layout in your home or apartment, don’t wait; contact Houseplay for a consultation today!
Photo Credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

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.”

A Tried and true Coastal Home Remodel
What do you get when a client asks – do we really need this staircase??BRILLIANT!
The end result so specifically focused on a better use of space. We so wish more new construction plans were focused on this! (Call us if you’re struggling with this, too!)
From poorly put together Tommy Bahama, to fresh with a nod to mod. This new kitchen space is anchored by a large working island that is perfect for entertaining. With dedicated storage around back, the island acts a bit as it’s own pantry too. The raised bar top provided a fun feature of a more coastal feeling wood-finish that really made the kitchen in our opinion. We also love the gained breakfast nook (that’s what losing a set of stairs will get you!). As well as, the soft touch that a simple set of sheers and beautiful chandy offer to really tone this space down.
Living Room Refresh
Not far beyond, the living room was a real refresh as well. Updating old tan chenille sofas with an amazing white crypton sectional. Creating space for big groups or the perfect sleepover spot when you have a few extra kids in the house. Swivels by the french doors offer extra seating for the TV area. The beloved soft plum cocktail ottoman is perfect for those who like to put their feet up! Also great for a tray to have snacks at hand!
Throughout the interior spaces – this project was about lightening and brightening.
Thus, making each dedicated area feel more congruous and fresh. There is a definite beach-y feel, accented perfectly by that fantastic view framed by those pretty sheers, but the overall mood feels transitional and fresh and forward thinking. A timeless space for them to enjoy in any season here on the Gulf!

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.”

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.”

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.”
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