It is not uncommon for down2earth interior design to be tasked with the challenge of combining an existing kitchen and dining room into one open space that is great for communal cooking and entertaining. But what happens when that request is only the beginning? In this kitchen, our clients had big dreams for their space that went well beyond opening up the plan and included flow, organization, a timeless aesthetic, and partnering with local vendors. Although the family wanted all the modern conveniences afforded them by a total kitchen renovation, they also wanted it to look timeless and fit in with the aesthetic of their 100 year old home. So all design decisions were made with an eye towards timelessness, from the profile of the cabinet doors, to the handmade backsplash tiles, to the choice of soapstone for countertops, which is a beautiful material that is naturally heat resistant. The soapstone was strategically positioned so that the most stunning veins would be on display across the island top and on the wall behind the cooktop. Even the green color of the cabinet, and the subtle green-greys of the trim were specifically chosen for their softness so they will not look stark or trendy in this classic home. To address issues of flow, the clients really analyzed how they cook, entertain, and eat. We went well beyond the typical “kitchen triangle” to make sure all the hot spots of the kitchen were in the most functional locations within the space. Once we located the “big moves” we really dug down into the details. Some noteworthy ones include a whole wall of deep pantries with pull outs so all food storage is in one place, knives stored in a drawer right over the cutting boards, trash located right behind the sink, and pots, pans, cookie sheets located right by the oven, and a pullout for the Kitchenaid mixer. There are also pullouts that serve as dedicated storage next to the oven for oils, spices, and utensils, and a microwave located in the island which will facilitate aging in place if that becomes an objective in the future. A broom and cleaning supply storage closet at the top of the basement stairs coordinates with the kitchen cabinets so it will look nice if on view, or it can be hidden behind barn doors that tuck just a bit behind the oven. Storage for platters and a bar are located near the dining room so they will be on hand for entertaining. As a couple deeply invested in their local community, it was important to the homeowners to work with as many local vendors as possible. From flooring to woodwork to tile to countertops, choosing the right materials to make this project come together was a real collaborative effort. Their close community connections also inspired these empty nesters to stay in their home and update it to their needs, rather than relocating. The space can now accommodate their growing family that might consist of children’s spouses, grandkids, and furry friends alike.

Floral Court is a mixed-use development featuring a high-quality residential, retail and restaurant space located in London’s Covent Garden. The project has created a new public walkway between Floral Street and King Street, providing increased footfall levels that provide a vital link to the retail and restaurant units in the development. The mailboxes used in the Floral Court project are situated in internal lobby areas that residents pass through to access their apartment. Each bank of mailboxes is fitted into a bespoke timber frame with an internal steel frame support that ensures multiple mailboxes are securely installed in their respective locations. The chosen mailbox model for this development is the NW2 product, an item that is particularly popular with clients looking for a mailbox that has a minimalist design finish and where mail is to be both delivered and retrieved through the front face. This project uses a lateral variation of the NW2 mailbox, which allows for A4 sized flexible mail to be deposited and securely stored in the post box. The lateral type of post box typically features a shorter depth and larger width, which is ideal for installation areas that are relatively narrow. To reflect the number of residences that they service, the mailboxes are in a variety of different configurations across the site. Each post box has been engraved with corresponding residence numbers during the manufacturing process. To allow for a clean finish on the mailbox, the client opted for the engraving to be the same colour as the mailboxes themselves. Being used with the NW2 product, which has been specifically designed to have minimal features, this is the ideal mailbox and engraving combination for a sleek designer look. The mailbox is engraved with the front family ‘Calisto MT’, which is used in other locations on the site. This ensures a consistent mirroring of fonts used throughout the Floral Court development.

Get a glimpse at the laundry room cabinets, counter, and sink from the foyer hallway.
Inspiration for a small contemporary light wood floor utility room remodel in Raleigh with a single-bowl sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, gray walls and a side-by-side washer/dryer

A fantastic find at the local Habitat for Humanity store led to the decision to repurpose a complete set of high-quality oak cabinets. These cabinets boast superior construction compared to what is typically available at large retail chains, featuring solid oak and plywood instead of inferior pressed materials. With only minor repairs required, the main task was to apply a finish that would complement the new kitchen design. The cabinets underwent a thorough cleaning, sanding, staining, and lacquering process, resulting in a distinctive and impressive look achieved affordably without compromising on quality.

Duplex Y is located in a multi apartment building, typical to the Carmel mountain neighborhoods. The building has several entrances due to the slope it sits on. Duplex Y has its own separate entrance and a beautiful view towards Haifa bay and the Golan Heights that can be seen on a clear weather day. The client - a computer high-tech couple, with their two small daughters asked us for a simple and functional design that could remind them of their frequent visits to central and northern Europe. Their request has been accepted. Our planning approach was simple indeed, maybe even simple in a radical way: We followed the principle of clean and ultra minimal spaces, that serve their direct mission only. Complicated geometry of the rooms has been simplified by implementing built-in wood furniture into numerous niches. The most 'complicated' room (due to its broken geometry, narrow proportions and sloped ceiling) has been turned into a kid's room shaped as a clean 'wood box' for fun, games and 'edutainment'. The storage room has been refurbished to maximize it's purpose by creating enough space to store 90% of the entire family's demand. We've tried to avoid unnecessary decoration. 97% of the design has its functional use in addition to its atmospheric qualities. Several elements like the structural cylindrical column were exposed to show their original material - concrete. Photos: Julia Berezina

Duplex Y is located in a multi apartment building, typical to the Carmel mountain neighborhoods. The building has several entrances due to the slope it sits on. Duplex Y has its own separate entrance and a beautiful view towards Haifa bay and the Golan Heights that can be seen on a clear weather day. The client - a computer high-tech couple, with their two small daughters asked us for a simple and functional design that could remind them of their frequent visits to central and northern Europe. Their request has been accepted. Our planning approach was simple indeed, maybe even simple in a radical way: We followed the principle of clean and ultra minimal spaces, that serve their direct mission only. Complicated geometry of the rooms has been simplified by implementing built-in wood furniture into numerous niches. The most 'complicated' room (due to its broken geometry, narrow proportions and sloped ceiling) has been turned into a kid's room shaped as a clean 'wood box' for fun, games and 'edutainment'. The storage room has been refurbished to maximize it's purpose by creating enough space to store 90% of the entire family's demand. We've tried to avoid unnecessary decoration. 97% of the design has its functional use in addition to its atmospheric qualities. Several elements like the structural cylindrical column were exposed to show their original material - concrete. Photos: Julia Berezina

Our clients live in a typical, traditional suburban home. One homeowner had been collecting wine and requested a dedicated room for storing, tasting and entertaining that felt as if he were in a California wine cellar. Our design team created a room with Old World touches including a dramatic arched entrance bordered by decorative faux stone quoins. The doorway has two dark wood and glass doors. Key features include two built-in dual zone, wine refrigerators, a flagstone look floor, mural on the back wall with an arch that looks as if there is a wine cellar behind it. Furnishings include a custom made, circular epoxy table with a live edge, 4 bar stools, two upholstered chairs and end table. Rough-hewn look beams adorn the ceilings and the walls and ceilings are hand troweled plaster with a glaze.

The closet was a huge priority for this client, both in terms of how she wanted it to look and feel. The end result is reminiscent of an experience. Clothing is on display instead of simply stored away for later use. A large custom island provides necessary storage and is designed to resemble an impressive piece of furniture. Paired with the custom concrete top, the piece defines the space while also providing functional storage and an easy spot for ironing the next day’s clothes. Around the perimeter of the room, you’ll find hanging storage that feels more like a high end boutique than your typical closet jam-packed with the season’s attire. Crafted and curated for an elevated aesthetic, the clothing bars and hooks feature a more vintage look that complements the intimate vibe for a space that maximizes function while also feeling like an experience in the comfort of your own home.

This custom kitchen is part of an adventuresome project my wife and I embarked upon to create a complete apartment in the basement of our townhouse. We designed a floor plan that creatively and efficiently used all of the 385-square-foot-space, without sacrificing beauty, comfort or function – and all without breaking the bank! To maximize our budget, we did the work ourselves and added everything from thrift store finds to DIY wall art to bring it all together. Our normal décor tends towards earth tones and old world styles. In this project we had the chance to branch out and play with a new style and color palette. We chose orange for the living area’s accent wall and paired this with blue glass and other orange accents to create a look that is warm, bright, and bold.

Our clients live in a typical, traditional suburban home. One homeowner had been collecting wine and requested a dedicated room for storing, tasting and entertaining that felt as if he were in a California wine cellar. Our design team created a room with Old World touches including a dramatic arched entrance bordered by decorative faux stone quoins. The doorway has two dark wood and glass doors. Key features include two built-in dual zone, wine refrigerators, a flagstone look floor, mural on the back wall with an arch that looks as if there is a wine cellar behind it. Furnishings include a custom made, circular epoxy table with a live edge, 4 bar stools, two upholstered chairs and end table. Rough-hewn look beams adorn the ceilings and the walls and ceilings are hand troweled plaster with a glaze.

All products are custom made. Available in different fabrics and colors (extruded aluminum and cold-formed steel). Accordion shutters also available. Our gates and shutters are designed for privacy and protection. They are built with extruded aluminum for added protection and durability. Traditional gates and shutters are typically built with steel. Aluminum is more aesthetically pleasing and offers maximum security. Roller gates and shutters are useful throughout the year for privacy, security, and protection from the sun. Many clients install roller gates and shutters over doors and windows. Roller gates and shutters are optimal for hurricane protection and energy saving. They are easy to use and can be raised or lowered with the push of a button. All gates and shutters are custom designed and are available in a variety of materials, fabrics and colors (extruded or foam-filled). • Optional: Tension pins to prevent forced entry. • Optional: Vent holes in slats are optional for ventilation.

This beautiful laundry room designed and built by Gilbert Design Build has it all. The washers and dryer are on pedestals to store detergent and softeners. The rest of the new laundry space was finished to almost be as nice as a typical kitchen with wood cabinets, under cabinet lighting, recessed lights, a large sink. and tile floor.

All products are custom made. Available in different fabrics and colors (extruded aluminum and cold-formed steel). Accordion shutters also available. Our gates and shutters are designed for privacy and protection. They are built with extruded aluminum for added protection and durability. Traditional gates and shutters are typically built with steel. Aluminum is more aesthetically pleasing and offers maximum security. Roller gates and shutters are useful throughout the year for privacy, security, and protection from the sun. Many clients install roller gates and shutters over doors and windows. Roller gates and shutters are optimal for hurricane protection and energy saving. They are easy to use and can be raised or lowered with the push of a button. All gates and shutters are custom designed and are available in a variety of materials, fabrics and colors (extruded or foam-filled). • Optional: Tension pins to prevent forced entry. • Optional: Vent holes in slats are optional for ventilation.

Duplex Y is located in a multi apartment building, typical to the Carmel mountain neighborhoods. The building has several entrances due to the slope it sits on. Duplex Y has its own separate entrance and a beautiful view towards Haifa bay and the Golan Heights that can be seen on a clear weather day. The client - a computer high-tech couple, with their two small daughters asked us for a simple and functional design that could remind them of their frequent visits to central and northern Europe. Their request has been accepted. Our planning approach was simple indeed, maybe even simple in a radical way: We followed the principle of clean and ultra minimal spaces, that serve their direct mission only. Complicated geometry of the rooms has been simplified by implementing built-in wood furniture into numerous niches. The most 'complicated' room (due to its broken geometry, narrow proportions and sloped ceiling) has been turned into a kid's room shaped as a clean 'wood box' for fun, games and 'edutainment'. The storage room has been refurbished to maximize it's purpose by creating enough space to store 90% of the entire family's demand. We've tried to avoid unnecessary decoration. 97% of the design has its functional use in addition to its atmospheric qualities. Several elements like the structural cylindrical column were exposed to show their original material - concrete. Photos: Julia Berezina

Here you can see that the homeowner decided to make a great use of the space beneath her cooktop. Consider drawers as a convenient way to store your pots and pans. This allows for easier access, as opposed to having to precariously stack pots on shelves. Tabitha Stephens

Catch-all Storage Closet Transforms into Elegant Wine Cellar It was a typical unused space with bare studs and exposed insulation located at the base of the lower level stairs, next to the mechanical room. The entire lower level floor is covered with multi-color slate which contained in-floor heat. This posed a problem for the new wine cellar. The challenge was overcome by placing a layer of foam insulation with a vapor barrier over the slate floor, walls, and ceiling. Then, a plywood subfloor was glued in. A wall space vented into the adjacent laundry room was created to house a cooling unit, which maintains a perfect temperature within the wine cellar. The location of this wine cellar was a wonderful opportunity to create a showpiece that could be viewed from the upper level. An old fashioned store front, complete with two large windows and a faux painted shingle roof, was designed and built to draw attention and allow the viewer to see inside. Tami found a wall mural of an authentic wine cave and had it sized to fit the side wall of the new wine cellar, providing an illusion of continuing space and setting the tone of what was about to come. A rustic wood floor and a tongue and groove barrel ceiling, faux painted to resemble brick, were installed - all coinciding with the wall mural. Custom cabinetry filled the interior, holding wine bottles and boxes of such. A copper sink was inlayed into a wood counter top. Faux painted bricks highlight an oiled rubbed bronze faucet and a leaded seedy glass cabinet above is designed to hold various types of scotch whiskey. Ambient lighting enhances the cabinetry while a rustic mini chandelier hangs from the center of the barrel ceiling. This once “catch-all” storage closet is no more. A small, old world wine cellar has emerged and now, is quite a show piece.

Our clients lived in a typical, traditional suburban home. One homeowner had been collecting wine and requested a dedicated room for storing, tasting and entertaining that felt as if he were in a California wine cellar. Our design team created a room with Old World touches including a dramatic arched entrance bordered by decorative faux stone quoins. The doorway has two dark wood and glass doors. Key features include two built-in dual zone, wine refrigerators, Venetian plaster walls, a flagstone look floor, mural on the back wall with an arch that looks as if there is a wine cellar behind it. Furnishings include a custom made, circular epoxy table with a live edge, 4 bar stools, two upholstered chairs and end table. Rough-hewn look beams adorn the ceilings and the walls the ceilings and walls are hand troweled plaster with a glaze.

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.