We are so excited about this stylish Houston patio addition! It's one of our most recent outdoor living space design projects - and one of our new favorites! We particularly love the rustic corner fireplace, the beautiful, vaulted pine ceiling and the Restoration Hardware furniture and accessories. "Even though this space has an outdoor kitchen - often the highlight of our projects - the focus here is beautiful, comfortable outdoor living," says Outdoor Homescapes of Houston owner Wayne Franks. "And I have to say, I think this is one of the most gorgeous spaces we've created for doing that - in style." "This project was special from the start, as we were creating this space for a friend of Wayne’s who had been a long time mentor to his boys growing up," adds Lisha Maxey, owner of LGH Designs in Houston (she coordinated furniture and finishes for the project). "This client was the principal of their high school and knew all of them very well and Wayne, too. This made it very personal, indeed, and we wanted everything to be perfect!" The 23- by 16-foot addition, located at the back of the house in Cypress, looks out onto a manmade lake in the homeowners' subdivision. The focal point? A 9-foot-8-inch-high-by-7-foot-wide corner fireplace in Earth Grey rustic ledgestone from Colorstone in Houston. The fireplace features a custom wooden mantel, stone bench seating and a 52-inch Sunbrite outdoor TV. Another highlight is the flooring - silver travertine tile laid out in a Versailles pattern. "We chose silver travertine in a 'Tumbled' color palette with variations of cream and brown," says Lisha. "So we had those two colors, plus grey, to pull from." The 7-foot-long, stucco outdoor kitchen island's countertops are also noteworthy - Absolute Black granite in a leathered finish offering a modern look and a dark grey hue that works perfectly with the color palette. The kitchen island also houses an RCS 30-inch grill and fridge. The seating area includes a sectional couch, coffee table, two swivel chairs and two ottomans - all from Restoration Hardware. "We used Restoration Hardware's Biscayne sectional, swivel chairs and ottomans in gray, with textured linen weave in Sand and cushions and peacock accent pillows in gray," says Lisha. The coffee table is made of solid teak with a concrete top - as is the matching side table. "We added a console table, also in teak, behind the sofa. And for accents, we added three Amalfi lanterns from Restoration Hardware in weathered zinc." A Sunbrella® Heathered area rug (in Gray) was added to anchor the space and visually tie it together. "The space as a whole leans towards a transitional style, in that it has many traditional cozy comforts and colors, but the furniture gives it a more contemporary look," says Lisha. "The idea from the beginning was to marry these two styles, as our clients wanted a look that would not age and be in vogue for years to come." On the exterior, you can see how we worked to make the addition blend with the existing home - matching the shingles and stucco and continuing the landscaping. 3D graphic renderings and a virtual video tour allowed the clients to know exactly what the space would look like beforehand. "It takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process," says Outdoor Homescapes' graphic designer, Kristy Buell Franks. "Floor plans and elevation drawings are good for giving an idea of the overall scope of the project, but it's the 3D renderings that really show what the space is going to look like." The 3D graphics and video tours also help immensely when choosing finishing materials and furniture, she says: "The clients' choices can be put into the design to allow the clients to see how the materials will work with the existing materials on the house and how the furniture will look in the space." What do you like about this space? Post a comment and let us know!

Large trendy beige floor open concept kitchen photo in Seattle with a single-bowl sink and an island

White Box – Kitchen and Living spaces We were asked by our client to remove two walls in order to open the small space that measures 17’ wide by 31’ long. Two simple ideas drove the design; Light and duality of space. Guided by both we started with what we believe is critical to every project – process of discovery. The proposed design uses white and dominating color for walls, cabinets and the built in bench. Light colored wood floor will add to the light appearance of space shell. As all dividing walls were removed, perimeter walls were charged with functions; linear kitchen, bench next to dining table, and pantry closet. Avoiding upper cabinets allow the design to be open and make use of the wall as a dynamic element –otherwise a monochromatic space. The newly created functional void connects both ends of space and creates what appears to be a larger and brighter spatial experience.

Kitchen - craftsman kitchen idea in Houston

This nursery was a low-budget, DIY job. The idea was to create a space that both baby and momma could be comfortable in, and enjoy spending a lot of hours in (particularly in the first few months!). The theme started as "sophisticated gender neutral with subtle elements of whimsy and nature" - and I think we achieved that! The space was only 8' x 10', so storage solutions were key. The closet drawers and side table were both (very worn) antique pieces that were given a new life!

Remodel-Kitchen & Family Room: Quiet Luxury with a Natural Palette This remodel reimagines the heart of the home by seamlessly integrating the kitchen and family room into a refined yet inviting open-concept space, grounded in a “quiet luxury” aesthetic and a natural palette. Kitchen Transformation: The kitchen layout is completely reworked for improved flow and functionality. Major appliances have been reassigned for efficiency: • The refrigerator is built in and anchors the focal wall providing improved access to both prep and serving areas. • The range has been centered on the back wall, framed by two- toned cabinetry and a low-profile custom hood accented with brass that blends seamlessly into the wall for an understated look. • The dishwasher and sink have been relocated to the new central island, allowing for uninterrupted views across the room and better interaction with guests or family. At the heart of the space is a large central island, topped with Taj Mahal quartzite in soft beige and taupe tones. The island serves as a multi-functional hub. The cabinetry is custom-built in white oak, finished in a matte clear coat that highlights the wood’s natural grain. Hardware is kept minimal, in brushed brass for a touch of subdued elegance. Natural Palette & Materials: The entire space embraces a natural color scheme—warm whites, layered pastel beiges and natural wood tones—accented with natural stone. Leathered Taj Mahal backsplash with subtle texture adds quiet visual interest without overpowering the calm atmosphere. Family Room Integration: The kitchen flows effortlessly into the family room, unified by wide-plank oak flooring and soft lighting. A fluted marble-clad fireplace anchors the space, surrounded by, built-in shelving with the same oak finish inside as the kitchen cabinetry. Furnishings follow the same philosophy: clean lines, neutral fabrics, and a mix of soft textures. Think boucle armchairs, a deep linen sectional, and a reclaimed wood coffee table. Lighting & Finishing Touches: Soft, layered lighting—including recessed lights, sculptural clear pendant lights above the island, and concealed LED strips—enhances the serene mood.

Meet Meridith: a super-mom who’s as busy as she is badass  — and easily my favorite overachiever. She slays her office job and comes home to an equally high-octane family life. We share a love for city living with farmhouse aspirations. There’s a vegetable garden in the backyard, a black cat, and a floppy eared rabbit named Rocky. There has been a mobile chicken coop and a colony of bees in the backyard. At one point they even had a pregnant hedgehog on their hands! Between gardening, entertaining, and helping with homework, Meridith has zero time for interior design. Spending several days a week in New York for work, she has limited amount of time at home with her family. My goal was to let her make the most of it by taking her design projects off her to do list and let her get back to her family (and rabbit). I wanted her to spend her weekends at her son's baseball games, not shopping for sofas. That’s my cue! Meridith is wonderful. She is one of the kindest people I know. We had so much fun, it doesn’t seem fair to call this “work”. She is loving, and smart, and funny. She’s one of those girlfriends everyone wants to call their own best friend. I wanted her house to reflect that: to feel cozy and inviting, and encourage guests to stay a while. Meridith is not your average beige person, and she has excellent taste. Plus, she was totally hands-on with design choices. It was a true collaboration. We played up her quirky side and built usable, inspiring spaces one lightbulb moment at a time. I took her love for color (sacré blue!) and immediately started creating a plan for her space and thinking about her design wish list. I set out hunting for vibrant hues and intriguing patterns that spoke to her color palette and taste for pattern. I focused on creating the right vibe in each space: a bit of drama in the dining room, a bit more refined and quiet atmosphere for the living room, and a neutral zen tone in their master bedroom. Her stuff. My eye. Meridith’s impeccable taste comes through in her art collection. The perfect placement of her beautiful paintings served as the design model for color and mood. We had a bit of a chair graveyard on our hands, but we worked with some key pieces of her existing furniture and incorporated other traditional pieces, which struck a pleasant balance. French chairs, Asian-influenced footstools, turned legs, gilded finishes, glass hurricanes – a wonderful mash-up of traditional and contemporary. Some special touches were custom-made (the marble backsplash in the powder room, the kitchen banquette) and others were happy accidents (a wallpaper we spotted via Pinterest). They all came together in a design aesthetic that feels warm, inviting, and vibrant — just like Meridith! We built her space based on function. We asked ourselves, “how will her family use each room on any given day?” Meridith throws legendary dinner parties, so we needed curated seating arrangements that could easily switch from family meals to elegant entertaining. We sought a cozy eat-in kitchen and decongested entryways that still made a statement. Above all, we wanted Meredith’s style and panache to shine through every detail. From the pendant in the entryway, to a wild use of pattern in her dining room drapery, Meredith’s space was a total win. See more of our work at www.safferstone.com. Connect with us on Facebook, get inspired on Pinterest, and share modern musings on life & design on Instagram. Or, share what's on your plate with us at hello@safferstone.com. Photo: Angie Seckinger

Transitional porch idea in Minneapolis

View of cook station with 36" gas Viking range and wall ovens to the left with microwave , steam oven and warming drawer. Architecture & Interior Design by : Princeton Design Collaborative 360pdc.com photo by Jeffery Edward Tryon

Modern Wooden Top Dining Table Connection by Huppe Made in Canada Connection by Huppe is a new luxury dining table from the Dining Furniture Up Line. The table is a real masterpiece created in Canada by real professionals from the hand-selected materials. Dining Table Connection features a real Scandinavian European design, that is remarkable by simple design, but astonishing uniqueness. The top of the dining table feature solid walnut or oak wood contour and is 2" thick. Up to your choice the tabletop can be ordered in one of the available wood stain finishes. The legs are made of 100% solid White Oak or Walnut and also finished up to your choice. The legs are supported with steel beams that carry not only a supporting function but also highlight the design, making the dining table a vivid spot in any interior. Connection wooden top dining table is available in three sizes: 84", 98" and 108", so you could find the right size for your modern home. Connection Dining Table by Huppe is also available with Glass Top - Click here to View. Features: Designed by Up Huppe 2" thick and durable tabletop, featuring solid wood contour Solid oak or walnut legs available in a variety of finishes Rectangular tabletop shape Base feature steel beams available in different matt lacquered colors Available in three different sizes *In the main picture the dining table is shown in Natural Walnut finish with Matt Black lacquered base beams. The starting price is for the Connection Wooden Dining Table W84" in Smoked Oak Finish / Matt Black Lacquer. Dimensions: Dining Table: W84" x D40" x H30" Dining Table: W98" x D40" x H30" Dining Table: W108" x D40" x H30"

SPLIT LEVELS. Perimeter cabinetry houses an under-counter speed oven, induction cooktop, and drawer bases for convenient access. Counters measure 32.5 inches in height—lower than the usual 36 inches— to increase usability. The matching island has two levels: standard-height to accommodate the dishwasher and wine fridge and a lowered prep sink and work area. Photography by Anice Hoachlander

Inspiration for a timeless home design remodel in Orange County

The star of this inviting living room is an entertainment wall featuring Glen Arbor cabinetry. Extra deep bookshelf cabinets and an open cube organizer create recessed display space for books, heirlooms and favorite mementos. But tall vanity cabinets also provide plenty of storage space for videos, remotes and other items to tuck out of sight before friends arrive. The Maple Dusk finish offers a counterpoint to the otherwise light-colored space, grounding the mix of patterns and textures. Base cabinets, wine storage and a sink turn the corner into a built-in wet bar ready to get the next dinner party started.

Design ideas for a large traditional partial sun side yard flower bed in Boston.

I love a client that has my taste in décor. Making this client a dream to work with. First things started with the kitchen layout which was horrendous, then gradually we worked our way though to baths rooms. After that the flooring and paint colors gave this coastal wonder the shine it deserves.

Chic. Moody. Sexy. These are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think about the W Hotel in downtown Bellevue, WA. When my client came to me with this as inspiration for her Basement makeover, I couldn’t wait to get started on the transformation. Everything from the poured concrete floors to mimic Carrera marble, to the remodeled bar area, and the custom designed billiard table to match the custom furnishings is just so luxe! Tourmaline velvet, embossed leather, and lacquered walls adds texture and depth to this multi-functional living space.

Open concept kitchen - mid-sized transitional u-shaped brown floor and medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen idea in Chicago with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a peninsula and gray countertops

Our clients came to us after recently purchasing this 1967 home in the lovely Spring Creek neighborhood. They originally considered adding on to the master bedroom or possibly putting an addition above the garage. After all considerations, they decided to work within the existing sq. ft. of the home. They wanted to update their kitchen, they needed to add an office, as she works from home and they wanted consistent flooring throughout the front of the house. They had a small galley kitchen that you could enter from the front formal living/dining room or from the other end but it was completely closed off to the main living area, other than a small window. They really wanted to open it up but worried it might be too opened up. In addition to adding new ceiling height cabinets, they wanted to completely gut this outdated kitchen and start over with a cleaner, simpler looking kitchen. They had trouble envisioning what their space would look like opened up, so using our technology and being able to show them a rendering and being able to do a virtual walk-through, really helped them see their future. We demoed the entire kitchen and all of the flooring throughout the kitchen, family room, living room and formal living room. We removed most of the wall that closed off the kitchen to the living room, with the exception of the half wall that became part of the new island. The doorway that used to go between the formal dining and kitchen was closed off, creating more kitchen wall space and allowing an office to be added at the back of the formal dining that could be closed off, when needed. White Chandler cabinets were installed with beautiful Macaubus Giotto Quartzite countertops. Our clients chose to install a spice pull out and utensil caddy pull out on either side of the oven and a tray pull out for cookie sheets, as well. A wooden vent-hood was also built by Chandler, creating a nice contrast to the white cabinets. Matte black Stanton pulls and Elara knobs were installed coordinating with the Forge Industrial Pendant Island lights and the Doster Dome kitchen table pendant. A Kohler vault Smart Divide®top-/under-mount double-equal bowl kitchen sink was installed in the island with a Kohler Simplice kitchen faucet, also in matte black. Detailed posts were added to each corner on the back side of the island, giving it a more custom finished look. In the formal dining room, a 4-light Forge Industrial Island Light was installed, which coordinated with the two pendant lights above the island. Adjacent to the living room was an office/wet bar area, leading to the back porch. We replaced the existing wet bar with a new cabinet and countertop and faucet, matching the kitchen and installed a wine refrigerator, too. Hardwood floors were installed throughout the entire front of the house, tying it all together. Recessed lighting was installed throughout the dining room, living room and kitchen, really giving the space some much needed light. A fresh coat of paint to top it all off really brightened up the space and gave our clients exactly what they were wanting.

Inspiration for a modern dining room remodel in New York