The renovation project at Hollywood Avenue in North York took a total of five months from start to finish. Astaneh Construction was hired to undertake the project, which involved a complete transformation of the house. The scope of work included creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting the entire house, upgrading the flooring and trim work. The project began with a thorough assessment of the existing space and a detailed plan was developed to ensure that the final outcome would meet the client's expectations. The team at Astaneh Construction worked diligently to ensure that every detail of the project was completed to the highest standard. The end result was a beautiful and modern living space that exceeded the client's expectations. The open concept design allowed for a seamless flow of natural light throughout the space, creating a bright and welcoming environment. The kitchen was completely renovated with modern fixtures and finishes, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace for the homeowners. The bathrooms were also transformed with new tiling, fixtures and vanities, creating a spa-like atmosphere. The entire house was painted with a fresh coat of paint, creating a clean and modern look. The flooring was upgraded to high-quality materials, providing durability and comfort underfoot. The trim work was also upgraded, adding a touch of elegance to the space. In summary, Astaneh Construction successfully completed a comprehensive renovation of Hollywood Avenue in North York, creating a beautiful and modern living space for the homeowners. The project took five months to complete and involved creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting, flooring and upgrading the trim work.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

Erik Grammer Photography - I recently came across a post on Facebook with a photo of an elderly couple with a quote saying "We were born in a time when if something was broken we would fix it, not throw it away..." This quote resonated with me. I found myself thinking of it while working on the same house - for the fourth time. I affectionately call this beautiful Southern California beach house the Humpty Dumpty home. I started a wonderful business relationship with one of my favorite clients back in 2003. Initially, I was called in to "fix" and finish what another designer started. Once completed and with everything just so, the couple unfortunately divorced and amicably divided the art, rugs and furnishings. I was hired for a second time to recreate each room as close as possible to replace all items that were missing. The house was happily restored back to the original design and all was well for a few years. My client relocated to the East Coast for a temporary job assignment and the house was rented to a person (whose name I can't say) from a famous all-girl band. During this time there was a problem with the upstairs laundry room and water damage occurred. I was hired for the third time to help repair and update (ever so slightly) some areas in the house. My client requested to keep the design and feeling of the house intact because he loved it so much. A few years passed before a pipe broke in the master bathroom while the new renter was out of town on vacation. Unfortunately, things like this do happen - and if not attended to quickly, major damage can occur. In this case, nearly the entire house was flooded requiring it to be completely gutted and stripped down to the floorboards and studs. In January of this year, I was hired to help the client, the insurance company, and the contractor put the house back together again. But unlike the Humpty Dumpty story, this house has actually been put back together again - several times over. Although, this house and client have experienced some challenges, I say this is a perfect example of design success. My client has had many opportunities to change and create something new in his environment with every mis-adventure. Instead, he realizes his home is exactly the way he likes it. It has been such an honor to work with this man who is definitive, trusting, and confident enough to create (or re-create) the perfect home that "fits" his personality and lifestyle. Although this Humpty Dumpty home has been good for my business, I hope the next project with this client is to decorate another property - perhaps a New York City Apartment!

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

The renovation project at Hollywood Avenue in North York took a total of five months from start to finish. Astaneh Construction was hired to undertake the project, which involved a complete transformation of the house. The scope of work included creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting the entire house, upgrading the flooring and trim work. The project began with a thorough assessment of the existing space and a detailed plan was developed to ensure that the final outcome would meet the client's expectations. The team at Astaneh Construction worked diligently to ensure that every detail of the project was completed to the highest standard. The end result was a beautiful and modern living space that exceeded the client's expectations. The open concept design allowed for a seamless flow of natural light throughout the space, creating a bright and welcoming environment. The kitchen was completely renovated with modern fixtures and finishes, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace for the homeowners. The bathrooms were also transformed with new tiling, fixtures and vanities, creating a spa-like atmosphere. The entire house was painted with a fresh coat of paint, creating a clean and modern look. The flooring was upgraded to high-quality materials, providing durability and comfort underfoot. The trim work was also upgraded, adding a touch of elegance to the space. In summary, Astaneh Construction successfully completed a comprehensive renovation of Hollywood Avenue in North York, creating a beautiful and modern living space for the homeowners. The project took five months to complete and involved creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting, flooring and upgrading the trim work.

The renovation project at Hollywood Avenue in North York took a total of five months from start to finish. Astaneh Construction was hired to undertake the project, which involved a complete transformation of the house. The scope of work included creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting the entire house, upgrading the flooring and trim work. The project began with a thorough assessment of the existing space and a detailed plan was developed to ensure that the final outcome would meet the client's expectations. The team at Astaneh Construction worked diligently to ensure that every detail of the project was completed to the highest standard. The end result was a beautiful and modern living space that exceeded the client's expectations. The open concept design allowed for a seamless flow of natural light throughout the space, creating a bright and welcoming environment. The kitchen was completely renovated with modern fixtures and finishes, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace for the homeowners. The bathrooms were also transformed with new tiling, fixtures and vanities, creating a spa-like atmosphere. The entire house was painted with a fresh coat of paint, creating a clean and modern look. The flooring was upgraded to high-quality materials, providing durability and comfort underfoot. The trim work was also upgraded, adding a touch of elegance to the space. In summary, Astaneh Construction successfully completed a comprehensive renovation of Hollywood Avenue in North York, creating a beautiful and modern living space for the homeowners. The project took five months to complete and involved creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting, flooring and upgrading the trim work.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

Thomas Valko of Reico Kitchen and Bath in King of Prussia, PA in collaboration with Hounddog Contracting, designed a transitional style kitchen featuring Masterpiece Cabinetry. The kitchen cabinets are in the Martel 5-piece door style in Maple in a Shortbread finish, complimented by Classic Rock Tesora Vento quartz countertops. “We love the new layout and design of our kitchen. It is both beautiful and functional! It was a challenge for us to visualize how the project would turn out, so it was extremely helpful to see the Reico 3D images while designing prior to the start of our work. We were very happy with the quality of both the cabinets and quartz we purchased from Reico,” said the client. Thomas found it challenging to optimize the smaller layout for maximum functionality. "Our biggest hurdle was determining the best spot for the island in such a compact space. Choosing the perfect location was tough," he explained. He expressed his admiration for the Shortbread color of the cabinetry, noting its consistency and ability to hold the stain well. Thomas also enjoyed the collaborative relationship with Dan from Hounddog Contracting, “The communication between all to ensure we were all on the same page. This was effective as the overall result of the kitchen was a huge success.” Photos courtesy of Dan Williams Photography.

The renovation project at Hollywood Avenue in North York took a total of five months from start to finish. Astaneh Construction was hired to undertake the project, which involved a complete transformation of the house. The scope of work included creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting the entire house, upgrading the flooring and trim work. The project began with a thorough assessment of the existing space and a detailed plan was developed to ensure that the final outcome would meet the client's expectations. The team at Astaneh Construction worked diligently to ensure that every detail of the project was completed to the highest standard. The end result was a beautiful and modern living space that exceeded the client's expectations. The open concept design allowed for a seamless flow of natural light throughout the space, creating a bright and welcoming environment. The kitchen was completely renovated with modern fixtures and finishes, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace for the homeowners. The bathrooms were also transformed with new tiling, fixtures and vanities, creating a spa-like atmosphere. The entire house was painted with a fresh coat of paint, creating a clean and modern look. The flooring was upgraded to high-quality materials, providing durability and comfort underfoot. The trim work was also upgraded, adding a touch of elegance to the space. In summary, Astaneh Construction successfully completed a comprehensive renovation of Hollywood Avenue in North York, creating a beautiful and modern living space for the homeowners. The project took five months to complete and involved creating an open concept living area, renovating the kitchen and bathrooms, painting, flooring and upgrading the trim work.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

For this full-home remodel, the homeowners were looking for a design-build firm with strong credentials, sustainable practices, and a personal touch. After an extensive search, they chose Schulte Design Build for our expertise, approachability, and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. From the beginning, collaboration was essential. The homeowners had a well-defined vision but remained open to professional insights, allowing us to create a design that balanced functionality, sustainability, and budget-conscious decisions. Energy efficiency played a key role in the project, with strategic upgrades such as relocating the water heater and switching to a hybrid model. We also adjusted the backup furnace to side vent, reducing roof penetrations and improving overall efficiency. Accessibility was another priority, and our team incorporated thoughtful ADA-friendly solutions throughout the home. The material selection process was equally intentional, ensuring that finishes aligned with the homeowners’ aesthetic goals while staying within budget. Our design team worked closely with them to achieve a refined and cohesive look without compromising quality. Project management and clear communication were crucial to the success of this remodel. With regular check-ins and project tracking software, we kept the process organized and transparent, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. The construction phase lasted six months, during which the homeowners stayed actively involved while trusting our team to bring their vision to life. The end result is a beautifully transformed home that integrates modern efficiencies, accessibility, and timeless design. Beyond the renovation itself, the homeowners gained a deeper understanding of their home’s functionality and feel more connected to their space than ever before. At Schulte Design Build, we take pride in guiding homeowners through the remodeling journey with expertise, integrity, and a collaborative spirit.

Dennis and Joe have a large, light-filled house. New construction meant lofted space and open floor plans with traditional styling. Running a busy dental practice by day and engaged in a rich social life by night, this couple needed a professional to take the lead on making their house a home. That’s my cue! They wanted to take risks, and stay away from “matchy-matchy”. We gussied up a plain ol’ TV room and gave it a healthy dose of luxury. Our plan was initially inspired by an abstract painting hanging over their stone fireplace. We brought in their love of the outdoors to make things cozy and used family furniture whenever possible for nostalgia and comfort. I took their love for one-of-a-kind objects and started making a design plan, aiming to solve their biggest frustration: the family room. They had a tortured relationship with a “forgotten family room,” a great space that was spacious and bright, but not at all cozy or joyful, and certainly not “them.” I wanted to create a cozy space functional for everyday curling up with puppies and watching TV after dinner, yet chic enough for hosting the pre-dinner kitchen overflow and cocktails during parties. I went looking for contrasting textures and materials. I wanted to balance patterns and scale, and use non-traditional colors as neutrals to create an overall sense of “BAM!” Dennis and Joe loved the nod to the classics juxtaposed with new and different globally-inspired pieces. For this project our design aesthetic can be described as Middle Eastern/tribal meets mid-century modern. We played to their sensible side with proportion and balance, and stayed as far away from boring/bleh as we could. You could say this room was pretty successful...It was featured in DC Modern Luxury. (#nobigdeal, right?) From there we moved on to other spaces.. We added colorful pillows and sheer drapery to finish off their formal living room. We kept an inherited bedroom set from Dennis’ Mom and added color, draperies, and pillows to overhaul the guest bedroom. Their project was not a rip-and-replace, we weren’t starting from scratch with a blank piece of paper. Rather, our goal was to take what was already there and make it better, more like them. Using functionality first, we focused on giving the house a soothing, joyful aesthetic. We upped the chic factor by a gajillion and helped them find their ‘happy’ at home. See more Safferstone stuff at www.safferstone.com. Connect with us on Facebook, get inspired on Pinterest, and share modern musings on life & design on Instagram. Or, send us a love note at hello@safferstone.com. Photo: Angie Seckinger