In this 1905 Tudor home, the intent of this design was to take advantage of the classic architecture of the home and incorporate modern conveniences. Located in the Joseph Berry Subdivision in Detroit, this stellar home presented several design challenges. The most difficult challenge to overcome was the 11” slope from one end of the kitchen to the other, caused by 110 years of settling. All new floor joists were installed and the floor by the side door was then recessed down one step. This created a cozy nook when you first enter the kitchen. A tiered ceiling with strategically planned cabinetry heights and crown molding concealed the slope of the walls at the ceiling level. The second challenge in this historic home was the awkward foot print of the kitchen. It’s likely that this kitchen had a butler’s pantry originally. However it was remodeled sometime in the 70’s and all original character was erased. Clever pantry storage was added to an awkward corner creating a space that mimicked the essence of a butler’s pantry, while providing storage desired in kitchens today. Keeping the large footprint of the kitchen presented obstacles with the working triangle; the distance from the sink to the cooktop is several feet. The solution was installation of a pot filler over the cooktop that added convenience and elegance (not sure about this word). Not everything in this project was a challenge; the discovery of a brick chimney hiding behind plaster was a welcome surprise and brought character back honoring the historic charm of this beautiful home. Kitchen Designer: Rebekah Tull of Whiski Kitchen Design Studio Remodeling Contractor: Renaissance Restorations, Inc. Counter Top Fabricator: Lakeside Solid Surfaces - Cambria Cabinetry: Legacy Crafted Cabinets Photographer: Shermin Photography Lighting: Rejuvenation Tile: TileBar.com

This backyard patio design is inspired by our Blu 60 patio slab. The best-selling Blu slate patio slab was inspired by natural slate stone. This traditional patio stone comes in multiple sizes for your backyard pool decks, patios & walkways. The same lines and rugged texture as our thicker Blu paver, the same opulent colors and traditional look, Blu 60 Slate slab is the choice for pedestrian areas such as on walkways and patios. https://www.techo-bloc.com/shop/slabs/blu-60-slate/ 

This homeowner is a local shop keeper and interior designer in Geneva, who exudes style and a has a great eye for interiors. There was no doubt that we had to create a space that showcased her favorite decorative accents and heirlooms. A myriad of display cabinets were artfully fitted into the design which delightfully boasts her family’s keepsakes. The refrigerator, strategically hidden within the wall, is a millwork backdrop – Not standing in the way, like refrigerators are famous for. The kitchen a visual work of art amid the ordinary tasks of cooking and tidying. Project specs: Appliances by Gaggenau, Walnut island with natural quartzite countertops. Limestone countertops on the perimeter’s white painted cabinets. Photo Bruce Van Inwegen

The finished product is a beautiful, modern bathroom, with a show-stopping shower! From the outside, you can see the strategically placed can lighting, floor-to-ceiling tile, and matching tiled pony walls specifically sized to fit the chrome towel warmer. Heated flooring is also a great feature to include in a luxury bathroom remodel, as it warms the room consistently at a controlled temperature – perfect for those chilly evenings when walking across tile flooring can send a chill up your spine! Just as designed, the new shower fills the entirety of the wall space that was previously occupied by the soaking tub. Frameless glass reaches across the room for a more spacious feel and showcases the neat features inside this personal spa. Photography by Todd Ramsey, Impressia

Furnishings were strategically selected to make the most of each room.
Large open concept ceramic tile living room photo with brown walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and a concealed tv

Inspired by the Louisiana architecture of A. Hays Town, this client set out to replicate a Louisiana courtyard in the midst of this creekside estate. A pool was the centerpiece of the design, and it was anchored by an antique brick clad spa. The spa, strategically placed on the home's main axis, was specifically purposed to replicate a courtyard fountain. The vegetation includes a mixture of trimmed boxwood hedges, ferns, and azaleas, as well as a variety of other broad leafed plants. The potted plants add seasonal interest and year-round decor. This project also features the best in outdoor living. A copper screened cabana house includes an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and temperature controls for year round comfort. There is an outdoor firepit and seating area, sheltered by a vine covered trellis.

The bronzed pendant lighting fixtures and strategic under-cabinet LEDs provide additional illumination to the recessed ceiling lights. (Photography credited to SLR Pro Shots.)

Holly Hill, a retirement home, whose owner's hobbies are gardening and restoration of classic cars, is nestled into the site contours to maximize views of the lake and minimize impact on the site. Holly Hill is comprised of three wings joined by bridges: A wing facing a master garden to the east, another wing with workshop and a central activity, living, dining wing. Similar to a radiator the design increases the amount of exterior wall maximizing opportunities for natural ventilation during temperate months. Other passive solar design features will include extensive eaves, sheltering porches and high-albedo roofs, as strategies for considerably reducing solar heat gain. Daylighting with clerestories and solar tubes reduce daytime lighting requirements. Ground source geothermal heat pumps and superior to code insulation ensure minimal space conditioning costs. Corten steel siding and concrete foundation walls satisfy client requirements for low maintenance and durability. All light fixtures are LEDs. Open and screened porches are strategically located to allow pleasant outdoor use at any time of day, particular season or, if necessary, insect challenge. Dramatic cantilevers allow the porches to project into the site’s beautiful mixed hardwood tree canopy without damaging root systems. Guest arrive by vehicle with glimpses of the house and grounds through penetrations in the concrete wall enclosing the garden. One parked they are led through a garden composed of pavers, a fountain, benches, sculpture and plants. Views of the lake can be seen through and below the bridges. Primary client goals were a sustainable low-maintenance house, primarily single floor living, orientation to views, natural light to interiors, maximization of individual privacy, creation of a formal outdoor space for gardening, incorporation of a full workshop for cars, generous indoor and outdoor social space for guests and parties.

An extra-long lot presented unique opportunities for DJL Builders to design and build a charming Cape Cod residence for an active couple with diverse interests. The main floor captures every activity required by the homeowners for one-floor living. A home office made private with sliding doors, a master bedroom and bath featuring a walk-in shower surround an open concept kitchen and living/dining area. The work zones of the home - laundry, powder room, mud room are strategically laid out along a stately corridor leading to a three-car garage. The upper level includes two bedrooms, and full bath to accommodate visiting family in a private setting. Project Location: Plymouth MI Photography: CJ South Photography

The exterior of this residence embodies the essence of Eisenhauer Woodworks' philosophy—harmoniously blending natural materials with meticulous craftsmanship. The façade features a rich tapestry of locally sourced timber, its warm hues and varied textures reflecting the surrounding Kootenay landscape. Large, strategically placed windows invite abundant natural light, seamlessly connecting the interior spaces with the outdoors. The design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with clean lines and a thoughtful layout that respects the property's unique topography. This approach not only enhances the home's aesthetic appeal but also ensures it stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of traditional building methods and the natural environment.

We tailored this major kitchen update to meet the needs of our client for whom regularly gathering her adult children and their families for home cooked meals is a tradition hailing from her southern heritage. The Wolf range, Sub Zero refrigerator and freezer, commercial grade range hood and strategically placed prep sink were designed to support her love of cooking and large scale meal preparation. By replacing a smaller island and peninsula with an expansive sixteen foot island we greatly increased both the storage and the seating capacity, providing plenty of space for family and friends to comfortably gather in this true heart of the home. Other must haves like the built in coffee maker, dedicated wine refrigerators and bar area, and a built in buffet niche for storing several dish collections make this a modern kitchen with traditional roots that is ideal for entertaining and relaxing.

THE SETUP The original L-shaped guest bathroom, primarily utilized by the client’s young nephews, presented several design challenges. The entry door’s placement at the top of the stairs created an awkward flow, while the lack of natural light and the sectioned-off toilet and shower area contributed to a cramped and dimly lit ambiance. Design Objectives: Reconfigure the floor plan to improve guest access and circulation Create a versatile space that accommodates both young guests and adult needs Introduce natural light to brighten the overall ambiance Incorporate a tub/shower combination suitable for children while meeting adult requirements Design Challenges: Relocating the entry door to a more functional position Finding an optimal layout to open up the entire bathroom as a unified space Maximizing natural light and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere Updating the tub/shower area with a refreshed look while ensuring child-friendly features THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Reconfigured floor plan with the entry door relocated to the main hallway for seamless guest access Removal of the dividing wall separating the toilet and tub/shower area, enabling an open, spacious layout Strategic placement of a window to flood the space with natural light. Also – careful selection of materials and finishes contributing to the bright and airy aesthetic Inclusion of a handheld showerhead serving as a lower shower option for young guests The new floor plan and the introduction of natural light have transformed this guest bathroom into a radiant, welcoming space. The dual vanity sinks and tall storage cabinet cater to versatile needs, while the terracotta floor tiles harmonize beautifully with the overall design, adding warmth and style. The decision to keep a shower curtain for the tub/shower combination enhances the open and airy feel. Thoughtful details, such as the gear-inspired faucet handles and complementary light fixtures above the mirrors, add a touch of edgy sophistication to this multifunctional guest retreat.

DESIGN BUILD REMODEL | Home Office Transformation | FOUR POINT DESIGN BUILD INC | Part Eleven This completely transformed 3,500+ sf family dream home sits atop the gorgeous hills of Calabasas, CA and celebrates the strategic and eclectic merging of contemporary and mid-century modern styles with the earthy touches of a world traveler! AS SEEN IN Better Homes and Gardens | BEFORE & AFTER | 10 page feature and COVER | Spring 2016 To see more of this fantastic transformation, watch for the launch of our NEW website and blog THE FOUR POINT REPORT, where we celebrate this and other incredible design build journey! Launching September 2016. Photography by Riley Jamison #HomeOffice #remodel #LAinteriordesigner #builder #dreamproject #oneinamillion

How Can I Reduce the Cost of Remodeling a Bathroom? Allreno Design AI Renovating a bathroom is an exciting but often expensive project. Homeowners frequently worry about how to balance quality with affordability. Fortunately, there are smart strategies to cut costs without sacrificing style. Whether you're updating a bathroom vanity, retiling the floor, or overhauling the entire space, making informed decisions can help you save thousands. At Allreno, we understand that affordability and quality go hand in hand. That’s why we developed the Allreno Design App, a cutting-edge tool that simplifies the bath renovation process and helps homeowners make cost-effective choices. Here’s how you can reduce expenses on your next bathroom remodel: 1. Plan Ahead with a Budget One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is starting a renovation without a clear budget. Before you begin, list all the necessary expenses, including labor, materials, and unexpected costs. Using tools like the Allreno Design App, you can visualize your remodel and get instant cost estimates based on your selections. 2. Choose a Cost-Effective Bathroom Vanity A bathroom vanity is often the focal point of a bathroom remodel. Instead of opting for a custom-built unit, consider ready-to-assemble or pre-designed vanities. Allreno partners with top manufacturers to offer stylish, high-quality vanities at competitive prices, helping you save money without compromising on design. 3. Keep the Plumbing Where It Is Relocating plumbing fixtures—such as sinks, toilets, and showers—can significantly increase labor costs. Keeping your layout intact can save you thousands in contractor fees. The Allreno Design App allows you to experiment with different configurations while ensuring you stay within your budget. 4. Refinish Instead of Replacing Instead of replacing your bathtub, tiles, or countertops, consider refinishing them. Reglazing a tub, repainting cabinets, or updating hardware can make a huge difference at a fraction of the cost. Small changes can have a big impact without the need for a full replacement. 5. Shop Smart for Materials Purchasing materials strategically can lead to big savings. Look for clearance items, buy in bulk, and compare prices across different suppliers. Allreno simplifies this by connecting you with trusted vendors and providing access to exclusive discounts on bath renovation materials. 6. Do Some of the Work Yourself While some tasks require professionals, there are many things you can do on your own, such as painting, installing new hardware, or even assembling a pre-made bathroom vanity. If you're comfortable with DIY projects, this can significantly reduce labor costs. 7. Use Technology to Your Advantage The Allreno Design App is a game-changer in the renovation industry. It helps homeowners design their ideal bathroom, estimate costs, and even connect with local professionals. By using AI-driven recommendations, the app ensures you get the best value without unnecessary expenses. Conclusion Bathroom remodeling doesn’t have to break the bank. By planning ahead, making smart material choices, and leveraging technology like the Allreno Design App, you can achieve a beautiful, budget-friendly bathroom. Whether you're upgrading a bathroom vanity or tackling a full bath renovation, these strategies will help you save money while creating a space you love. www.allreno.co

Step into this captivating basement remodel that transports you to the cozy and mysterious ambiance of a dark, moody Irish pub. The design seamlessly blends traditional elements with modern aesthetics, creating a space that exudes warmth, character, and a touch of nostalgia. The natural stone walls add a rustic and authentic charm. Beneath your feet, polished concrete floors give the space an industrial edge while maintaining a sleek and contemporary look. As you make your way towards the heart of the room, a custom home bar beckons. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the bar features a rich, dark wood that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding stone and concrete. Above the bar, a custom etched mirror takes center stage. The mirror is not just a reflective surface but a piece of art, adorned with a detailed family crest. Amidst the dim lighting, strategically placed fixtures and pendant lights cast a warm glow, creating intimate pockets of light and shadow throughout the room. In this basement retreat, the marriage of natural stone, polished concrete, and custom craftsmanship creates a dark, moody Irish pub feel that is both timeless and inviting.

We recently finished this landscape design and installation project in the Tanglewood neighborhood of Houston, Texas. Our client, a Louisiana native who loves entertaining and wanted to stay connected to her NOLA roots, desired a space that could comfortably accommodate 30+ guests on a regular basis. We deliberately designed the outdoor kitchen without a cover to preserve the view of the magnificent oak trees. Our aim was to create a kitchen that is both durable and visually appealing. The countertop is made of leathered granite, a material that can withstand the unpredictable Texas weather. All the appliances, including the grill, refrigerator, sink, and double side burner, were locally sourced and are made of stainless steel. Additionally, we utilized Austin limestone, which was quarried right here in Texas. To infuse a touch of New Orleans charm into the backyard, we incorporated a fountain. The surrounding black star gravel was designed as a versatile space that can be used for additional dining, seating, or even as a meditation area. To ensure privacy and shade as the plants mature, we strategically planted Eaglestone Holly and Japanese Yew along the fence line. Completing the landscape, we selected Amerishade grass for its excellent shade tolerance.

For the spacious living room, we ensured plenty of comfortable seating with luxe furnishings for the sophisticated appeal. We added two elegant leather chairs with muted brass accents and a beautiful center table in similar accents to complement the chairs. A tribal artwork strategically placed above the fireplace makes for a great conversation starter at family gatherings. In the large dining area, we chose a wooden dining table with modern chairs and a statement lighting fixture that creates a sharp focal point. A beautiful round mirror on the rear wall creates an illusion of vastness in the dining area. The kitchen has a beautiful island with stunning countertops and plenty of work area to prepare delicious meals for the whole family. Built-in appliances and a cooking range add a sophisticated appeal to the kitchen. The home office is designed to be a space that ensures plenty of productivity and positive energy. We added a rust-colored office chair, a sleek glass table, muted golden decor accents, and natural greenery to create a beautiful, earthy space. --- Project designed by interior design studio Home Frosting. They serve the entire Tampa Bay area including South Tampa, Clearwater, Belleair, and St. Petersburg. For more about Home Frosting, see here: https://homefrosting.com/

Getting chilly? Make your way over to the outdoor wood-burning fireplace! Follow the composite decking and railings to a gated section with ample seating next to a grand real stone on fireplace with flag stone tops. Keep back up wood in the two open shelves inside of the real stone walls surrounding the fireplace. Add your own decorative flare by maximizing the space provided by the solid oak mantel from log core, smooth wall tops and the "step" added to the bottom of the fireplace/walls. Breath in the fresh air and listen to the symphony of nature as you watch the day come to an end. You won't be in the dark thanks to the strategic lighting added under the posts of the deck railing as well as lantern style light fixtures on top of the surrounding walls of the fireplace.

This Seattle kitchen remodel was a complete transformation, turning an outdated space into a modern, functional masterpiece. The project began with a full gut renovation, removing old cabinetry, flooring, and outdated fixtures to create a fresh foundation. We installed sleek two-tone cabinetry, with white upper cabinets for a bright, airy feel and deep black lower cabinets to add contrast and sophistication. A stunning waterfall-edge quartz island became the centerpiece, providing both ample workspace and a stylish gathering area. Natural light was maximized with strategically placed skylights, enhancing the open-concept design. The refinished hardwood flooring seamlessly blended with the rest of the home, adding warmth and elegance. High-end stainless steel appliances and a modern range hood completed the sleek, contemporary look. This kitchen remodel in Seattle perfectly balances aesthetics and functionality, offering a luxurious yet practical space tailored for everyday living and entertaining.