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

Peninsula is perfect for an eat-in Kitchen and adds valuable prep space. The 3 pendants lights are strategically hung at varying heights.
Enclosed kitchen - small mid-century modern u-shaped medium tone wood floor enclosed kitchen idea in Louisville with a double-bowl sink, raised-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartz countertops, green backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

In transforming their retreat, our clients sought a departure from typical mountain decor. With an eclectic aesthetic, we lightened walls and refreshed furnishings, creating a stylish and cosmopolitan yet family-friendly and down-to-earth haven. This kitchen is all about functionality and elegance. With a strategic reconfiguration for ample storage, a harmonious blend of open and closed shelving, and an island with elegant seating, every detail is meticulously crafted. The overhead hanging system for pots and pans adds both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

The custom made vessels and the accent tiles were the inspiration for this bathroom. These pieces were custom made by the artist, Samuel L. Hoffman, a potter, based on our specifications, color and inspiration. The detail on the front of the vessels represents the perfect wave to be out in the ocean surfing! My client wanted an ocean/sea feel for his master bathroom and blue was his color of choice. The crystals in the accent tiles, makes the perfect representation of the deep sea with a beautiful perfect dark blue to match the outside of the vessels. The rest of the materials were carefully chosen to help bring the sea feel to it - the rocks, the wood planks and the "sea salt" wall tile. Each accent tile was specifically placed to balance the bathroom. The sink wall was carefully tailored - we remove some of the white liners and inserted glass blue liners strategically to bring the blue to the wall without taking over the vessels. The shower has a trench drain without a curb to allow for a clean smooth shower floor. Bathroom has all the contemporary amenities my client was looking for! Designed by: Olga Sacasa, CKD Interior designer Vessels & accent tiles custom made by: Samuel L. Hoffman Pottery Construction done by: Jeffrey V. Silva of Silva Bros Construction

Photography by: Rob Perry Geometric lines frame and define a minimalist front entry garden. Grass steps lead to a crushed stone courtyard.
This is an example of a modern front yard garden path in Seattle.

This space was completely empty, void of everything except the flooring tiles. All the containers and plantings, the patterned turf in the flooring, ornaments, and fixtures were part of the design. It spans three sides of the penthouse, extending the dining and living space out into the open. Outdoor rooms are created with the alignment of fixtures and placement of furniture. The custom designed water feature is both a wall to separate the dining and living spaces and a work of art on its own. A shade system offers relief from the scorching sun without permanently blocking the view from the dining room. A frosted glass wall on the edge of the kitchen brings privacy and still allows light to filter into the space. The south wall is lined with planters to add some privacy and at night are lit as a focal point.

Using white as the backdrop color, deep navy blue cabinetry is used on the island and echoes the accent color in the backsplash mosaic tile behind the hood. Glass inserts are strategically integrated into lighted cabinets, adding interest and illumination to the white wall cabinets. The soothing grey beadboard backsplash adds texture and speaks to the beachy aesthetic. To ensure a durable solution especially behind the sink, the bead board is installed above a 5” tall piece of quartz. We opted for a statement chandelier over the dining table in lieu of pendant lighting over the island, and added a single sconce above the window over the farmhouse sink. Additional accent lighting inside the glass cabinets and below the wall cabinets adds ambient and task lighting. Modern rustic details include hammered shiny chrome hardware and floating reclaimed shelves. Photo: Peter Krupenye

On the interior, the Great Room comprised of the Living Room, Kitchen and Dining Room features the space defining massive 18-foot long, triangular-shaped clerestory window pressed to the underside of the ranch’s main gable roofline. This window beautifully lights the Kitchen island below while framing a cluster of diverse mature trees lining a horse riding trail to the North 15 feet off the floor. The cabinetry of the Kitchen and Living Room are custom high-gloss white lacquer finished with Rosewood cabinet accents strategically placed including the 19-foot long island with seating, preparation sink, dishwasher and storage. The Kitchen island and aligned-on-axis Dining Room table are celebrated by unique pendants offering contemporary embellishment to the minimal space.

The removal of some of the other walls allowed for the addition of the wet bar accented by a floral pattern back-splash. Now family and guests don't need to go back upstairs to the kitchen to put together some refreshments. Instead they can use the black walnut wood counter top to organize the plates, utensils, and napkins retrieved from the white custom cabinetry and pull out cold beverages from the stainless steel built-in cooler. The addition of strategic, recessed lighting created a bright atmosphere without the worry of hitting one's head on any hanging light fixtures. To keep the balance of child-friendly area and charming entertainment space, vinyl flooring was installed in order to give the look of hardwood flooring but be easier to clean and maintain. With some well-thought out planning and intuitive insight, this finished basement was transformed into a charming multi-use living space.

In transforming their Aspen retreat, our clients sought a departure from typical mountain decor. With an eclectic aesthetic, we lightened walls and refreshed furnishings, creating a stylish and cosmopolitan yet family-friendly and down-to-earth haven. This kitchen is all about functionality and elegance. With a strategic reconfiguration for ample storage, a harmonious blend of open and closed shelving, and an island with elegant seating, every detail is meticulously crafted. The overhead hanging system for pots and pans adds both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

Colorful original art provided the unexpected in the serene neutral background. Details of the limestone, onyx and walnut floor are scattered strategically throughout the residence. •Photos by Argonaut Architectural•

Strategically placed windows add surprise and interest to the bath. Stone vessel sinks form the centerpiece of the vanity. Photo: Prakash Patel
Example of a small minimalist master black tile and porcelain tile ceramic tile bathroom design in Richmond with a vessel sink, flat-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, wood countertops, a one-piece toilet and green walls

THE SETUP Once these empty nest homeowners decided to stay put, they knew a new kitchen was in order. Passionate about cooking, entertaining, and hosting holiday gatherings, they found their existing kitchen inadequate. The space, with its traditional style and outdated layout, was far from ideal. They longed for an elegant, timeless kitchen that was not only show-stopping but also functional, seamlessly catering to both their daily routines and special occasions with friends and family. Another key factor was its future appeal to potential buyers, as they’re ready to enjoy their new kitchen while also considering downsizing in the future. Design Objectives: Create a more streamlined, open space Eliminate traditional elements Improve flow for entertaining and everyday use Omit dated posts and soffits Include storage for small appliances to keep counters clutter-free Address mail organization and phone charging concerns THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Compensate for lost storage from omitted wall cabinets Revise floorplan to feature a single, spacious island Enhance island seating proximity for a more engaging atmosphere Address awkward space above existing built-ins Improve natural light blocked by wall cabinet near the window Create a highly functional space tailored for entertaining Design Solutions: Tall cabinetry and pull-outs maximize storage efficiency A generous single island promotes seamless flow and ample prep space Strategic island seating arrangement fosters easy conversation New built-ins fill arched openings, ensuring a custom, clutter-free look Replace wall cabinet with lighted open shelves for an airy feel Galley Dresser and Workstation offer impeccable organization and versatility, creating the perfect setup for entertaining with everything easily accessible. THE RENEWED SPACE The new kitchen exceeded every expectation, thrilling the clients with its revitalized, expansive design and thoughtful functionality. The transformation brought to life an open space adorned with marble accents, a state-of-the-art steam oven, and the seamless integration of the Galley Dresser, crafting a kitchen not just to be used, but to be cherished. This is more than a culinary space; it’s a new heart of their home, ready to host countless memories and culinary adventures.

Notice how the white oak wood grain flows continuously across the door fronts. Nearly every other custom cabinetmaker will not go to this much trouble. Guess what this means: if I make a mistake or damage one during manufacture, I have to replace a whole batch. Ask me how I know this :(

Eye-Land: Named for the expansive white oak savanna views, this beautiful 5,200-square foot family home offers seamless indoor/outdoor living with five bedrooms and three baths, and space for two more bedrooms and a bathroom. The site posed unique design challenges. The home was ultimately nestled into the hillside, instead of placed on top of the hill, so that it didn’t dominate the dramatic landscape. The openness of the savanna exposes all sides of the house to the public, which required creative use of form and materials. The home’s one-and-a-half story form pays tribute to the site’s farming history. The simplicity of the gable roof puts a modern edge on a traditional form, and the exterior color palette is limited to black tones to strike a stunning contrast to the golden savanna. The main public spaces have oversized south-facing windows and easy access to an outdoor terrace with views overlooking a protected wetland. The connection to the land is further strengthened by strategically placed windows that allow for views from the kitchen to the driveway and auto court to see visitors approach and children play. There is a formal living room adjacent to the front entry for entertaining and a separate family room that opens to the kitchen for immediate family to gather before and after mealtime.

A pitched ceiling with a strategically placed window feels extra grand with the extra light. Seen in Estancia, a Dallas community.
Living room - large transitional open concept medium tone wood floor living room idea in Dallas with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

This pool’s Moonlight Grey Pebble Tec exposed aggregate interior is framed beautifully by the natural stone coping and the slate texture architectural stamped concrete deck. After dark the array of LED garden lights and the custom stone fire feature, strategically placed between the outdoor living room and spa, add the final dramatic touch.

Photo Credit: Brandi Image Photography Our Modern Farmhouse Style reflects in our own personal kitchen and working showroom. The warmth of the Walnut Butcher Block sets the scene for gathering and also for long baking sessions. The Silestone Quartz countertop around the perimeter makes it for easy clean up - especially around the range area. That heavy cooking zone features a custom PPKD built wood hood with all the detailing in the crown molding. The glass hutch serves as a perfect every day dish cabinet, while glass on the range wall also helps to lighten up the heavy load. The Farmhouse sink provides a beautiful clean-up station with the bridge faucet to add beauty and tradition. The purifier is strategically set up near the coffee station for early morning risers. The refrigerator is built into an old walkway that was under-used and it provides the perfect spot to house a hard working appliance. The dishwasher is paneled and tucked away beside the sink while the double pull-out trash is also camoflauged adjacent to the sink. We welcome you to make your Design Consult Appointment today so you can come and see the beauty, quality, and special touches we will put in your home, as we did with ours.

Hours of construction and design building led the Gappsi group to create a Thursday Goliath 16x37 fiberglass swimming pool with a 3/8 bluestone gravel base that was installed for the under layer of the pool shell for stabilization. Once the pool was adjusted and numerous factors were considered, the pool was then lifted and dropped in place. After installation, Gappsi associates placed solar tubes around the perimeter of the pool to increase support for the concrete slab of the patio base. This fiberglass swimming pool was installed by Gappsi in Lawrence NY 11559, located on the south shore of Nassau County Long Island. Due to the areas high water table the pool needed to be elevated, and many yards of fill were delivered to raise the grade of the property. We faced many challenges installing this fiberglass pool because of its size and weight. The delivery was the main obstacle because due to the size of this pool, 16x37, it was very costly to cross bridges and drive on highways. Due to the size of this magnificent pool we needed 2 police car escorts to the job site. The patio pavers used for this job were the Melfi Limestone. This unique stone is an earthy, multi-toned masterpiece; shades of beige, green, brown. and gray bring natural tones to the design. The stones are strategically placed in a Vincenza pattern along with a 2 inch thick random coping for the pool edge. The Melfi Limestone, and many other stones, are exclusively available at Gappsi. The stones are a beautiful contrast to the sapphire blue liner inside the pool. Plus assorted flowers and trees bring in pops of color and interest to the backyard area. To enhance the aesthetic of the Thursday Goliath fiberglass swimming pool a safety auto cover was installed. The sleek blue auto cover allows customers to easily protect the pool by simply turning a key. The Goliath, 16x37 is 3.8” to 6’8”deep which makes this fiberglass pool a non-diving pool, however, the pool can be used for a plethora of reasons. It's Olympic inspired shape is perfect for a morning workout swim, play water activities/sports with the kids, and allows family and friends to lounge on the extended benches and steps that are molded in the pool shell by the manufacture. Follow the link to watch the full progression of the job: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HduvJbDLtc