Updated Spec Home: Basement Bathroom In our Updated Spec Home: Basement Bath, we reveal the newest addition to my mom and sister’s home – a half bath in the Basement. Since they were spending so much time in their Basement Family Room, the need to add a bath on that level quickly became apparent. Fortunately, they had unfinished storage area we could borrow from to make a nice size 8′ x 5′ bath. Working with a Budget and a Sister We were working with a budget, but as usual, my sister and I blew the budget on this awesome patterned tile flooring. (Don’t worry design clients – I can stick to a budget when my sister is not around to be a bad influence!). With that said, I do think this flooring makes a great focal point for the bath and worth the expense! On the Walls We painted the walls Sherwin Williams Sea Salt (SW6204). Then, we brought in lots of interest and color with this gorgeous acrylic wrapped canvas art and oversized decorative medallions. All of the plumbing fixtures, lighting and vanity were purchased at a local big box store. We were able to find streamlined options that work great in the space. We used brushed nickel as a light and airy metal option. As you can see this Updated Spec Home: Basement Bath is a functional and fabulous addition to this gorgeous home. Be sure to check out these other Powder Baths we have designed (here and here). And That’s a Wrap! Unless my mom and sister build an addition, we have come to the end of our blog series Updated Spec Home. I hope you have enjoyed this series as much as I enjoyed being a part of making this Spec House a warm, inviting, and gorgeous home for two of my very favorite people!

A refined 2,300-sq-ft equestrian retreat in Palm Beach Polo Club that blends custom design, low-maintenance luxury, and modern comfort for stylish, easy living and effortless entertaining. The open-concept custom kitchen with sustainable cabinetry and streamlined design is crafted for both function and flow. Perfectly integrated into the living space, it invites effortless cooking and entertaining.

This custom walk-in closet offers a bright, meticulously organized layout designed for effortless everyday living. Full-height white built-ins with adjustable shelving, double hanging rods, and soft-close drawers create a clean, streamlined look while maximizing storage. Matte black hardware adds a modern contrast, giving the space a polished, contemporary feel. Warm hardwood flooring brings natural texture and warmth to the otherwise crisp palette, making the room feel inviting and luxurious. Ample open hanging areas accommodate everything from seasonal coats to long dresses, while centered cabinetry provides dedicated space for folded items and accessories. A flush, inset ceiling light keeps the space evenly illuminated, ensuring every corner is functional and easy to use. This walk-in closet blends practicality, craftsmanship, and modern simplicity into a beautifully organized retreat.

This kitchen renovation beautifully blends classic design with modern functionality. Crisp white cabinetry pairs seamlessly with warm wood accents, creating a timeless contrast that feels both fresh and inviting. The expansive island, topped with marble countertops, offers plenty of prep space and doubles as a casual gathering spot with elegant bar seating. Brass hardware and fixtures add a touch of luxury, while statement pendant lighting provides balance and sophistication. A custom built-in with glass cabinetry and a beverage fridge elevates entertaining, while integrated appliances keep the space streamlined and efficient. With its thoughtful layout, natural flow, and rich finishes, this kitchen is designed for both everyday living and hosting in style.

This kitchen embodies a bright and timeless elegance, combining high-quality materials and thoughtful details for a harmonious aesthetic. Dura Supreme white painted cabinets provide a clean and refined foundation, paired with Richelieu cabinet hardware in brushed nickel for a subtle yet polished accent. The countertops feature White Valley Granite, bringing natural beauty and texture to the space. A marble tile backsplash in a brick pattern adds a classic touch, complementing the cabinetry and countertops seamlessly. Benjamin Moore paint colors—Bleeker Beige and Swiss Coffee—enhance the overall warmth and brightness of the design. Top-tier appliances include a Wolf gas range, Bosch panel-ready refrigerator, and Miele speed oven, ensuring both functionality and a streamlined appearance. The Rohl single bowl fireclay sink and Grohe faucet offer durability and sophistication, blending practicality with style. The design is completed by engineered hardwood flooring, which adds warmth and durability, tying together the space with an inviting and cohesive look.

This stunning Avon Lake renovation showcases a thoughtfully reimagined kitchen and dining space, blending timeless elegance with modern functionality. The project began with a reconfiguration of the kitchen, expanding it into the former dining room to create a spacious, open-concept layout perfect for entertaining and family gatherings. The hearth room was transformed into a sophisticated new dining room, complete with an updated fireplace and a stunning chandelier, adding warmth and elegance to the space. The centerpiece of this luxury kitchen remodel is its striking design and high-end finishes. The countertops and backsplash feature quartzite “Australian Pearl,” offering a luxurious, natural aesthetic. Custom Mullet cabinetry elevates the design, with white inset beaded cabinets paired with rich cherry wood cabinets on the islands for a striking contrast. Top Knobs honey bronze hardware adds a warm, polished touch, while paneled appliances seamlessly integrate into the cabinetry for a sleek, cohesive look. This kitchen boasts two islands, designed for both practicality and style, and includes two dishwashers by Fisher & Paykel to streamline cleanup. The Fisher & Paykel cooktop and double oven provide professional-grade performance, making this kitchen ideal for avid chefs. Underfoot, beautiful white oak floors tie the space together with warmth and character. Lighting plays a key role in the design, with pendant lighting over the islands and statement fixtures throughout the kitchen and dining areas. Each piece was carefully selected to enhance the ambiance and add a touch of elegance. This custom kitchen renovation in Avon Lake perfectly balances form and function, making it an inviting space for both everyday living and entertaining. With premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and a thoughtful layout, this project is a true showcase of Hurst Design Build Remodel’s commitment to creating dream spaces with timeless appeal.

This stunning primary bathroom remodel in Laguna Hills, Orange County blends timeless elegance with modern functionality. Featuring a bold blue double vanity with sleek hardware and a luxurious freestanding soaking tub set against a wall of natural light, the space invites relaxation and style. The light wood-look flooring, fresh paint, and streamlined fixtures create a serene, spa-like atmosphere. Every detail—from the updated plumbing and electrical to the clean-lined mirror and lighting—was thoughtfully selected to elevate both form and function.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Bowling Green, Ohio, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. High-end first impressions start the moment you step inside the home, where elegant glass French doors create a bright, airy entrance that establishes a warm, inviting welcome for guests. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, the Windsor II maximizes spatial flow with an open-concept layout on the first floor, seamlessly connecting the family room, dining area, and kitchen into a unified heart of the home. This expansive main living space is anchored by a dramatic, two-story electric fireplace that brings immense height and sophisticated style to the great room, combining custom wood and tile finishes to provide the perfect cozy focal point. Designed for premium organization and practicality, the entry from the garage features a highly functional, custom built-in drop zone. Outfitted with dedicated lockers and cubbies, this mudroom space streamlines daily routines by providing a designated area for everyday essentials. For ultimate main-level privacy, the luxurious owner’s retreat serves as a secluded sanctuary on the first floor, featuring abundant storage thanks to two separate walk-in closets. The spa-like owner's bath offers a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a custom tile shower. Upstairs, the home transitions into an entertainment-focused second floor featuring a versatile media room designed to be the ultimate hub for hosting family and friends for movie nights, weekend sports, and casual game nights.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Stepping into this kitchen feels instantly inviting and incredibly smart! We designed and built these custom cabinets to perfectly complement the home's modern vibe, creating a clean, streamlined space that's also a dream to cook in. Every drawer and cupboard is thoughtfully placed for efficiency, making this a kitchen that's not just beautiful to look at, but truly a joy to use for daily meals and entertaining alike.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming. Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design. Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen. The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge. In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look. This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Designed to seamlessly blend rustic warmth with modern sophistication, this custom TV accent wall is the perfect fusion of the homeowners' distinct styles. After presenting multiple design concepts, this winning vision maintains harmony within the open-concept home. To ensure a cohesive flow, I carried through the cabinet and island tones from the kitchen and dry bar. The floating flat-panel cabinetry along the bottom provides functional storage while keeping the design sleek and streamlined. Wood paneling strips and floating shelves add depth and character, with ambient and accent lighting for a warm, inviting glow. A reclaimed mushroom wood beam spans overhead, featuring upper lighting that naturally draws the eye up while introducing a touch of rustic charm. This same stunning material was also used to craft a large beam over the sliders, seamlessly connecting the kitchen and dry bar, as well as a statement foyer entry beam, enhancing the home’s architectural flow. For a dramatic yet refined effect, the back wall is painted Urbane Bronze, allowing the rich wood tones and lighting to take center stage. When the 85" TV is off, it blends effortlessly into the dark backdrop rather than dominating the space. To complete the design, I selected a large woven natural light fixture, adding another layer of texture and organic beauty. The result is a one-of-a-kind feature wall that is both visually striking and effortlessly integrated into the home’s overall aesthetic.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Windsor II Modern Farmhouse in Bowling Green, Ohio, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern elements. High-end first impressions start the moment you step inside the home, where elegant glass French doors create a bright, airy entrance that establishes a warm, inviting welcome for guests. Inspired by the popular Windsor plan, the Windsor II maximizes spatial flow with an open-concept layout on the first floor, seamlessly connecting the family room, dining area, and kitchen into a unified heart of the home. This expansive main living space is anchored by a dramatic, two-story electric fireplace that brings immense height and sophisticated style to the great room, combining custom wood and tile finishes to provide the perfect cozy focal point. Designed for premium organization and practicality, the entry from the garage features a highly functional, custom built-in drop zone. Outfitted with dedicated lockers and cubbies, this mudroom space streamlines daily routines by providing a designated area for everyday essentials. For ultimate main-level privacy, the luxurious owner’s retreat serves as a secluded sanctuary on the first floor, featuring abundant storage thanks to two separate walk-in closets. The spa-like owner's bath offers a premium getaway experience, beautifully appointed with a contemporary freestanding soaking tub and a custom tile shower. Upstairs, the home transitions into an entertainment-focused second floor featuring a versatile media room designed to be the ultimate hub for hosting family and friends for movie nights, weekend sports, and casual game nights.

This fully renovated coastal modern pool house is a seamless blend of relaxed sophistication and thoughtful design. Crisp white shiplap walls set a breezy, timeless backdrop, complemented by warm wood accents and tailored yet inviting furnishings that create the perfect indoor-outdoor retreat. A custom bar, designed with both style and function in mind, serves as the ultimate entertaining hub, while hidden doors cleverly conceal a storage closet and a spa-like bathroom, maintaining the space’s clean, streamlined aesthetic. Every detail—from the curated finishes to the effortless flow—ensures this pool house is both a stylish escape and an extension of the home’s modern coastal charm.

This open-plan lower-level living area combines versatility with understated modern design. The wide, unobstructed floor space allows for flexible use—whether as a family entertainment area, guest suite, or multi-purpose gathering zone. The cool-toned wall color contrasts subtly with the warmth of the flooring, creating a balanced and inviting palette. At one end, a streamlined kitchenette offers the essentials without overwhelming the room's openness. This integration makes the space perfect for long-term guests or independent living, without compromising the home's cohesive design language. Ample recessed lighting ensures the room is bright and functional throughout the day, while the placement of windows maximizes available natural light. The result is a space that feels connected to the rest of the home but retains a sense of privacy. With its clean lines, durable finishes, and adaptable layout, this lower level exemplifies how thoughtful design can turn even secondary spaces into beautiful, functional parts of daily life.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Step into a world of sophistication in the corridor of this beautifully remodeled 60-year-old apartment flat. Admire the built-in cabinetry, offering ample storage and a sleek, streamlined look. The corridor is further enhanced with asymmetrical hidden ceiling lights, adding a touch of sophistication and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Setup This hall bath renovation was for empty nesters whose grandkids frequently visit, making it a priority to update the space for both adult guests and young children. Originally, the bathroom was outdated with a large sheet mirror, heavy oak cabinets, and hexagon tile flooring, giving it a dark, underwhelming look. The goal was to create a fresh, inviting environment that balances elegance with practical features for a multi-generational household. Design objectives: Modernize finishes and materials to update the aesthetic Provide accessible, kid-friendly storage and shower options Artful lighting and maintain a timeless, neutral palette The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: No structural changes – must keep the tub and wall structure Ensure flexibility with storage for both adult and children’s items Retain functionality for easier bath time with young children The Renewed Space Design solutions: Updated Storage – Replaced the dated medicine cabinet with a sleek, mirrored version on the wall, offering accessible storage without sacrificing the streamlined look. The vanity now includes additional storage for essential items, keeping surfaces clutter-free and organized. Neutral Palette with Subtle Details – To give the bathroom a timeless look, we used a soft, monochromatic color scheme throughout. The shower tile, with a subtle sheen and texture, adds depth and interest without overwhelming the space. The floor tile’s pattern brings a sense of movement that’s refined yet durable for a high-traffic bathroom. Flexible Shower Setup – Opted to keep the shower curtain instead of glass doors, allowing easier access for bathing young children. A spacious shower niche was installed to hold essentials, adding functionality for both the homeowner and the grandkids. The result is a timeless hall bath with just the right blend of modern sophistication and family-friendly functionality. The subtle yet striking tile details and upgraded lighting bring elegance to the room, making it the perfect refresh for any guest and a versatile space for all ages.

Contemporary meets function in this Oakton, VA remodel. When it comes to home transformations, Foster Remodeling Solutions knows how to bring visions to life. Recently, a family came to us with a desire for a spacious, open kitchen perfect for entertaining, loaded with extra storage, a sleek bar area, and even custom cabinets for their beloved dogs. We took their vision and turned it into a stunning reality, creating a home that balances beauty and practicality. Kitchen Transformation: An Open, Inviting Space The kitchen renovation began with a bold change: we removed the wall between the kitchen and dining room to create a seamless, open-concept layout. This reimagined space centers around a large, welcoming island that now serves as a gathering place for friends and family. The added bar area brings a touch of sophistication, ideal for hosting, while custom cabinets were carefully designed for easy access to pet essentials—making the kitchen functional for everyone in the family. With contemporary cabinetry and streamlined storage solutions, this kitchen offers both convenience and style. Every detail, from the lighting to the countertop finish, was chosen to complement the family’s lifestyle, making it not only a cooking space but also an entertainment hub.