A kitchen traditional for today. This beautiful, bright kitchen is nestled within a colonial style home located in Manchester, NH. Created to blend the traditional style of the home with the contemporary entertaining style of the home’s newest owners, transforming the kitchen into a functional cooking and entertaining space did not come without a few challenges. The dated kitchen lacked counter, storage and pantry space. As with many older homes, there were sloping floors, chimney chases, and a lack of wall space. Rising to the challenge, I created three unique designs, each one designed to manage these challenges while offering the homeowners their choice of WOW factors. Indeed, the final design includes plenty of necessary counter space, amazing deep drawer storage, and wonderful pantry space. To make cooking easier and far more efficient, I accessorized with complements of oil pullouts, tray dividers, dual waste pull outs, and utensil dividers. The layout is also perfect for two cooking at the same time, and the additional counter seating makes this island the hot spot for all gatherings. To keep the “HOT” out of the hotspot however, guests remain comfortable with the pop up down draft installed alongside the 6 burner range efficiently drawing in that heat. Additionally, the raised bar behind the range top not only covers the down draft when in its raised position, but shields guests from any cooking splatter. 
AND, it’s the perfect bar height for leaning on or standing around those trays of yummy appetizers set upon it during a party! The final transformation of space into the perfect entertaining spot is the bar. The kitchen is open to the dining room so placing a small bar between the two spaces creates an easy bridge for guests to grab a drink without crossing the entire kitchen to the fridge. Lighting from the bar’s mullion wall cabinet softly cascades into the kitchen/seating area, illuminating the homeowner’s fine crystal wine and champagne glasses as it reflects the warmth and style of the new kitchen. Next to the bar is the creative addition of an oversized but streamlined chalk board where the signature drink of the night can be whimsically showcased restaurant style. Or, if they choose, guests may leave a note… White painted cabinets wrap around the perimeter of the kitchen while grey glazed cabinets ground the island. A traditional raised panel door and drawer style suit the home perfectly. Both are topped with polished black pearl granite countertops. The stainless steel double ovens, refrigerator, and dishwasher coordinate beautifully with the grey glazed island and rustic iron cabinet hardware. Large windows on two walls open to scenic views and let in lots of natural light. Smokey glass pendants and recessed lighting strategically light work stations while artfully illuminating the entire kitchen. Day and night, this now organized, streamlined kitchen embraces the home with a sense of light and warmth; an inviting space perfect for cooking or enjoying time with friends and family. Photography by Scott Sherman

Small coastal condo gets a new life! This project started as a consultation that really focused on whether or not it was feasible to maximize functionality out of a tight kitchen area in a condo on the beach. The cabinetry was sort of dated but not terrible terrible. Refresh or total gut of this small kitchen The client wanted to give it a refresh worked but we had worked with her before…so she could not quite decide how far to go. Maybe just repaint the existing cabinets? She needed some furniture. She wanted a little more ambiance and pizazz. And she wanted the Cheryl magic. Ok finally, decision made. Kitchen had to go@! Decision made- a new kitchen to go with the new living! After further review on site with her during the consult meeting, and pitching a few inquiries around for bids on cabinetry and countertops – she ultimately decided to gut and re-do the whole layout. And man-oh-man what a difference some well executed design makes!! This layout was unique and truly optimized every inch we could muster from the kitchen. (Working around that spiral staircase and navigating the soffit that wrapped the entire kitchen and adjacent living room!!) Colors needed to be bold while still feeling fresh so we paired a deep aubergine and a sort of “matte” Caribbean blue which laid the groundwork for a stunning living area palette. Tough layout to enlarge much There were a lot of other “givens” in this space that made the execution of the design a highly strategized process. We knew we had to work around the large wall space that starts the kitchen because it had the laundry room hiding on the other side… the awkward nook with windows on all sides that was a small breakfast area before the remodel… oh, and did we mention that dang spiral staircase?! Multiple site visits to plot the cabinetry and countertop curve paid off all said and done, though! Living space that work with the open floor plan kitchen Designing the furnishings then became the fun part! With a smaller living space flanked by windows and sliders – but one that needed to balance the kitchen in substance – we had to break a few preferred design rules to make up the amount of seating desired. The deep grape-y purple barrel swivels were the perfect “transition” piece by the slider offering access to the views while being versatile enough to still afford safe use of the slider and passage outside. Adding some graphic punch with the droplet shaped, stone and brass cocktail table and bold multicolored rug we love the balance of these weightier aesthetic choices with the adjacent kitchen. Signature pieces make all the difference Carrying through little pops of that blue green between the counter stools (I die! Seriously! SO GORGEOUS) and the sofa (with those brass nails!) — these colors really created a sturdy but eclectic tonal feel that the client was just over the moon for. The art and grasscloth on the walls throughout developed the architecture of the space in an overall structure that was really lacking – it feels warm, inviting, comfortable – BEAUTIFUL – but not too priss and pomp. Now if we could just keep the pup off the sofa!

My concept for this kitchen was to collaborate with my client for this complete home renovation and ensure that the kitchen was the focal point of the open concept home. We strategically worked together to ensure proper wall dimensions, island placement and function, and symmetry to meet the wants and needs of my clients. White perimeter cabinetry helped to achieve a traditional feel for the space, while the gray stained island cabinetry allowed for a lovely transition to make the cozy kitchen work seamlessly with the distressed wide plank farmhouse style floating floor. In order to relieve the stark whiteness of the perimeter, I had suggested using contrast grout for the subway tile and the ultimate choice of cement tiles for the accent backsplash behind the range created a cathartic scene in this modestly stated design. Throw in some owls, books, and some fun pendant lighting and we were smiling through the finish line, together!!! My goal is to ensure that my client's needs are met and that their lives are improved through my designs. I hope you like the images of the new space!

A leaky tub and some cracked tiles convinced our returning clients that an update to their primary suite was long overdue. The old bathroom’s traditional travertine tiles, stained wood cabinets, and bulky tub deck made the space feel heavy and dated. Our goal was to create a sophisticated, light, and serene space that was more aligned with their evolving style. Replacing the sizeable tub deck with a freestanding bathtub opened up the room and allowed us to expand the walk-in shower. A slim niche was strategically tucked into the corner ensuring products are within easy reach. Separate his and hers vanities provide ample storage with an abundance of drawers.. The dramatic veining in the marble-look porcelain provides the perfect backdrop for the minimalist tub and modern plumbing fixtures while the natural marble in the shower plays off the warm golds and grays. With thoughtful design choices and striking finishes, we transformed a dark and drab bathroom into a refined and refreshing retreat.

Jim Schallon, our lead designer for the project came up with this urban-chic oasis while meeting requirements necessary for an addition that will allow moisture to be retained and released properly into the natural aquifers, in and around the Austin area. Strategic planning was necessary to find the right material that would allow the proper drainage for water runoff. To meet these requirements, Schallon designed the backyard patio compacted with layers of gravel and soil, topping it with Mexican river rock, which will allow water to flow naturally through the surface while providing a smooth texture. Not only is the river rock easy on bare feet but also provides a cooling feel as it retains the natural temperature of the ground at all times. The patio was finished off with 2×2 sawn cream Limestone pavers throughout, but the design didn’t stop at the patio pavers and rock choice. In addition with the contemporary design, electrical was installed to incorporate the last piece of this urban chic oasis; the hot tub!

Kitchen in 45th Place | Budget-Friendly Kitchen Remodel in Phoenix, AZ | Room Type: Kitchen Remodel | Project Name: 45th Place | Key Feature: A transitional kitchen remodel that proves smart material selections and a clear design vision can deliver a high-impact result without a luxury budget. Challenge: The kitchen needed a full refresh but the project had real budget constraints. The challenge was making intentional material choices that looked elevated and cohesive without overspending, while still delivering the clean, transitional aesthetic the clients wanted. Solution: Living with Lolo approached this as a design problem first, identifying where to invest and where to pull back without sacrificing the overall look. Budget-friendly materials were selected strategically so the finished kitchen felt intentional and designed rather than value-engineered. The result is a space that punches above its price point because the design thinking behind it was sound from the start. Materials: Budget-conscious cabinetry, transitional hardware and fixtures, and durable countertop surfaces selected for both value and visual impact. Budget: $30,000 to $75,000 | Timeline: Completed approximately 2019, roughly 2 to 4 months from design through completion.

At the core of this transformation was the client’s aspiration for an open, interconnected space. The removal of barriers between the kitchen, dining, and living areas created an expansive, fluid layout, elevating the home’s ambiance and facilitating seamless interaction among spaces. The new open layout is the perfect space to cook and entertain merging sophistication with functionality. The journey began with the client’s exploration of colors, eventually embracing Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy blue as the cornerstone for the cabinetry. This choice set the stage for a harmonious palette that tied in with the living and dining room furniture and rugs. Integrating a natural stone countertop became a focal point, incorporating these varied hues while gold fixtures added a touch of luxury and sophistication. Throughout the design process, challenges were met with innovative solutions. Space optimization was key, requiring strategic placement of appliances like a smaller-width refrigerator alongside a pull-out pantry cabinet. The island, a central feature, not only provided additional seating but replaced the need for a separate table and chairs, optimizing the space for gatherings and enhancing the flow between the kitchen and the adjoining areas. The revitalized kitchen now stands as a vibrant hub for social interaction. The homeowner seamlessly integrates into gatherings, no longer confined by kitchen walls, while guests engage effortlessly in the cooking process at the island. This transformation embodies the convergence of beauty and functionality, where every design element tells a story of thoughtful innovation and meticulous attention to detail.

This multi-room refresh is a masterclass in how targeted, strategic updates can completely transform the feeling of a home without requiring a full gut renovation. By keeping the existing raised-panel cabinetry and investing instead in new countertops, a showstopping backsplash, updated lighting, and bold paint choices, this project delivers maximum impact for the investment — and the results are stunning. The Kitchen The existing white raised-panel cabinetry — with its elegant arched door profiles and traditional detailing — was retained and freshly painted in a crisp, bright white, instantly modernizing what was there and giving it new life. The real transformation came through the new materials layered in around those cabinets. White quartz countertops with a subtle veining pattern replace dated surfaces throughout, their clean, polished surface making the entire kitchen feel newer, lighter, and more refined. The backsplash is the kitchen's true conversation piece — a full field of diamond-pattern marble mosaic tile in soft white, warm gray, and cool silver. The geometric pattern adds visual movement and texture across every wall surface, catching the light beautifully and giving the kitchen a jewel-like quality that feels both traditional and fashion-forward. Up close, the variation in the natural marble within each tile adds depth and complexity that no painted or printed surface could replicate. The island received the boldest treatment of all — repainted in a deep navy blue that creates a dramatic two-tone contrast against the white perimeter cabinets. Topped with matching white quartz and fitted with an induction cooktop flush to the surface, it functions as both a culinary workhorse and a design anchor. Warm wood bar stools pull up to the island's overhang, adding an organic contrast to the cool navy and white palette. New lighting completes the kitchen's transformation. A cluster of three clear glass pendant lights with oil-rubbed bronze hardware hangs above the island in staggered heights, their Edison-style bulbs casting a warm, ambient glow that feels simultaneously modern and nod to vintage industrial style. A matching single pendant illuminates the arched sink window — a beautiful architectural feature that frames a garden view and floods the space with natural light. The Powder Rooms Two powder rooms received personality-packed makeovers that prove small spaces are the perfect canvas for bold design statements. The main powder room is an absolute showstopper: floor-to-ceiling botanical wallpaper in deep navy blue covered in delicate white magnolia blossoms creates an immersive, garden-in-the-evening atmosphere. A classic white pedestal sink, a frameless oval mirror, and polished nickel wall sconces with white drum shades keep the fixtures restrained and elegant — letting the wallpaper be the undisputed star. Crown molding at the ceiling and warm oak flooring ground the space beautifully. A second bathroom refresh features a textured blue-gray grasscloth-look wallcovering that adds subtle, sophisticated texture to every surface. Paired with a warm wood vanity, quartz countertop, and brushed nickel fixtures, this space feels calm and collected — a quiet retreat that balances the more dramatic main powder room.

Unlike any other European bath towel warmer, this radiator seamlessly blends into contemporary, art-inspired bathrooms. Its quiet efficiency complements the room, creating a pure and healthy atmosphere. For maximum energy efficiency, consider strategically installing the CINIER Olycal® stone bath towel warmer radiator in your bathroom. The Olycal stone and the large surface area of the CINIER bath towel warmers ensure even heat distribution, maintaining a safe and comfortable temperature of up to 150°F/65°C. This radiator efficiently warms your bathroom while also heating your towels, making it an excellent choice for energy-conscious bathrooms. You can order your luxury Sculptural bath towel warmer radiator to add elegance to your space!

This bold kitchen remodel embraces layered materials, custom metalwork, and statement design to create a space that is both striking and highly functional. Designed to stand out, the kitchen blends contrasting textures and finishes to achieve a look that feels curated, elevated, and completely unique. At the center of the space, a custom kitchen island anchors the design, surrounded by rich material contrasts—from natural stone surfaces to warm wood tones and sleek metal accents. The use of custom metalwork, including architectural details and specialty elements, adds depth and a refined industrial edge that elevates the entire room. Custom cabinetry provides both structure and storage, while thoughtfully integrated features ensure the kitchen remains as practical as it is visually impactful. Layered finishes and bold combinations of materials create dimension throughout, proving that mixing textures can result in a cohesive and sophisticated design when done intentionally. Strategic lighting and an open layout enhance the overall feel, allowing each material and detail to shine while maintaining flow into adjacent living spaces. This kitchen is a perfect example of how bold design choices, mixed materials, and custom craftsmanship can come together to create a one-of-a-kind space that reflects both personality and luxury.

My concept for this kitchen was to collaborate with my client for this complete home renovation and ensure that the kitchen was the focal point of the open concept home. We strategically worked together to ensure proper wall dimensions, island placement and function, and symmetry to meet the wants and needs of my clients. White perimeter cabinetry helped to achieve a traditional feel for the space, while the gray stained island cabinetry allowed for a lovely transition to make the cozy kitchen work seamlessly with the distressed wide plank farmhouse style floating floor. In order to relieve the stark whiteness of the perimeter, I had suggested using contrast grout for the subway tile and the ultimate choice of cement tiles for the accent backsplash behind the range created a cathartic scene in this modestly stated design. Throw in some owls, books, and some fun pendant lighting and we were smiling through the finish line, together!!! My goal is to ensure that my client's needs are met and that their lives are improved through my designs. I hope you like the images of the new space!

this Traditional-inspired kitchen remodel, we aimed to transition an outdated, warm-wooded space into a vibrant, expansive gathering spot with minimal layout alterations. By introducing new cabinets and adopting a fresh color scheme, we swiftly revitalized the area, giving it an added brightness and a sense of airiness. The key to the transformation lay in reimagining the layout – removing the counter barstool space and replacing it with an island instantly ushered in an open-concept plan, enhancing the kitchen's spaciousness and facilitating seamless movement within the area. What's remarkable about this renovation is that it leveraged existing elements while making only minor adjustments, yet the impact was nothing short of profound. Through thoughtful design choices, strategic modifications, and plenty of smart storage solutions, we achieved a complete new creation.

Imagine stepping into a coastal paradise, where the beauty of the beach meets the elegance of a carefully designed home. Our Houzz project seamlessly blends these elements to create a stunning beach home that captures the essence of outdoor living and indoor luxury. As you approach the house, you're greeted by a chic glass door that invites you to explore a world of breathtaking design. The brick flooring outdoors sets the stage, adding rustic charm and a sense of history to the entryway. A welcoming doormat offers a glimpse of the home's character, hinting at the beachy vibes that await within. Once inside, the white walls create a canvas of tranquility, allowing your mind to drift to the nearby shoreline. The ceiling light fixture, like a showpiece, casts a warm and inviting glow, setting the mood for relaxation. In the living area, carpeting adds softness and comfort underfoot, while the lounge chairs outdoors beckon you to unwind in style. These outdoor seating areas are strategically placed to provide captivating views of the beautiful swimming pool, which is both a refreshing escape and a work of art in itself. The pool is surrounded by lush outdoor plants, creating an oasis of greenery that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. Moving to the interior, you'll find marble flooring that exudes opulence and elegance. This choice of flooring complements the beach home's high-end aesthetic, offering both beauty and practicality. The large glass doors and window blinds connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to bask in the natural beauty of your surroundings while enjoying all the comforts of home. It's a design that reflects the harmony of coastal living and contemporary luxury.

The kitchen area underwent a remarkable transformation, with a complete gutting and strategic movement of walls to create a more open and inviting space. Enhancing the aesthetics of the space with blue cabinets that are complimented with a white quartz top. The bathroom renovation elegantly phased out the aged oak cabinets, introducing a striking dark brown stain beautifully complemented by a pristine white quartz top. The showers have been upgraded with timeless subway tiles, a design choice that stands the test of time. Every inch of flooring has been revamped, with sleek, wood-style tiles providing a fresh, modern look. Exceptionally, some areas received a plush carpet upgrade, for that extra touch of comfort.

This landscape design blends modern aesthetics with drought-conscious choices. It showcases a mix of textures and colors, including succulents, ornamental grasses, and flowering plants, creating visual depth. The strategic use of rocks and mulch as ground cover enhances the water-efficient approach, keeping maintenance low while emphasizing natural beauty. A rust-colored metal sculpture adds a contemporary artistic touch, making the space feel refined yet inviting. The palette balances blue-green foliage, vibrant red accents, and soft yellows, creating a dynamic yet harmonious scene. It's a thoughtfully curated, sustainable landscape—ideal for a modern home that prioritizes style and environmental responsibility.

At the core of this transformation was the client’s aspiration for an open, interconnected space. The removal of barriers between the kitchen, dining, and living areas created an expansive, fluid layout, elevating the home’s ambiance and facilitating seamless interaction among spaces. The new open layout is the perfect space to cook and entertain merging sophistication with functionality. The journey began with the client’s exploration of colors, eventually embracing Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy blue as the cornerstone for the cabinetry. This choice set the stage for a harmonious palette that tied in with the living and dining room furniture and rugs. Integrating a natural stone countertop became a focal point, incorporating these varied hues while gold fixtures added a touch of luxury and sophistication. Throughout the design process, challenges were met with innovative solutions. Space optimization was key, requiring strategic placement of appliances like a smaller-width refrigerator alongside a pull-out pantry cabinet. The island, a central feature, not only provided additional seating but replaced the need for a separate table and chairs, optimizing the space for gatherings and enhancing the flow between the kitchen and the adjoining areas. The revitalized kitchen now stands as a vibrant hub for social interaction. The homeowner seamlessly integrates into gatherings, no longer confined by kitchen walls, while guests engage effortlessly in the cooking process at the island. This transformation embodies the convergence of beauty and functionality, where every design element tells a story of thoughtful innovation and meticulous attention to detail.

THE SETUP While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance. The client wanted a comfortable and classy gender-neutral design that would retain its updated look and have broad appeal for eventual resale. Design Objectives: Create a spacious, luxurious shower enclosure Incorporate ample storage for towels, linens and an extensive hair care collection Embrace a transitional design style that blends contemporary and classic elements Establish a harmonious color palette that complements the home’s new black window frames Ensure a future-proof design to maximize resale potential Design Challenges: Integrating a spacious shower within the existing layout Ensuring accessible towel and robe storage near the shower and tub areas Providing ample lighting and mirror space without cluttering the vanity area Finding dedicated storage for hair care essentials and accessories Maximizing linen storage while minimizing clutter Decluttering the tub niche area Tall angled ceiling almost too dramatic THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Frameless glass shower enclosure with a recessed niche (in the half wall) for body care products Strategically placed robe/towel hooks on shower glass facing shower and tub Illuminated, oversized mirrors with integrated lighting Multiple large pull-out drawers with electrical outlets in the vanity Dedicated base cabinet with countertop for towel/linen storage and decor Single, spacious tub niche for products and decorative accents Subtle horizontal trim lines at standard ceiling height to visually ground the space This primary bathroom remodel seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to the client’s discerning taste while ensuring adaptability for future needs. The harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic design elements, coupled with innovative storage solutions and thoughtful lighting choices, creates a timeless sanctuary that exudes elegance and comfort.

The kitchen area underwent a remarkable transformation, with a complete gutting and strategic movement of walls to create a more open and inviting space. Enhancing the aesthetics of the space with blue cabinets that are complimented with a white quartz top. The bathroom renovation elegantly phased out the aged oak cabinets, introducing a striking dark brown stain beautifully complemented by a pristine white quartz top. The showers have been upgraded with timeless subway tiles, a design choice that stands the test of time. Every inch of flooring has been revamped, with sleek, wood-style tiles providing a fresh, modern look. Exceptionally, some areas received a plush carpet upgrade, for that extra touch of comfort.

Established in a patrimonial building, the Castelnau condo project reflects its history throughout the entire design and is represented in the classical nature of the main entrance lobby. A strong perpendicular axe is created by the symmetrical layout and by a strategic ceiling recess, creating three blacks stripes directing the eyes on the openings to the exterior and taking charge of the lighting distribution. An arrangement of Flos chandeliers overlook the double height and confer elegance to the space, contrasting with the use of fluorescent fixtures that underlines the way to the elevators. Two symmetrical lounges serve as relaxation areas and are complemented by a built-in seat nestled in the hollow wood wall, which enfolds the elevators wall. The choice of materials and the construction details support the contemporary approach and honor the classic architecture filled with history. © Adrien Williams / Lorelei L’Affeter