Search results for "Substantial enhancements" in Home Design Ideas

The new Owners of this cottage on Dickie Lake in the Township of Lake of Bays approached us to design a substantial “face-lift” renovation of the existing cottage, and to design a new garage for secure storage.
A scrapbook collection of architectural style reference photos that the Owners had collected set the starting point for an integrated & consistent design style between the cottage and the new garage.
A gable roof feature was added to “celebrate the entry” to the existing cottage.
Windows, doors & siding were installed to the newly constructed garage. Windows & doors in the existing cottage were integrated with the new board & batten siding applied to both the cottage and the garage.
A high-quality exterior siding stain was applied by hand-brushing for enhanced penetration & protection. A durable exterior deck stain was applied to the new cedar deck.

This kitchen remodel was designed to make a statement—balancing bold character with refined craftsmanship to create a space that’s both highly functional and visually unforgettable.
At the heart of the design is a striking contrast palette. Crisp white perimeter cabinetry keeps the space bright and open, while rich black lower cabinets and a substantial island ground the room with depth and sophistication. The oversized island serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering point, topped with a dramatic stone surface that adds movement and texture.
The flooring plays a defining role in the overall aesthetic. A custom black-and-white patterned tile layout introduces energy and personality, transforming the kitchen into a true design centerpiece while maintaining a timeless appeal. This bold foundation is thoughtfully balanced by clean lines, classic shaker cabinetry, and elegant hardware selections.
Functionality was a key driver throughout the project. The layout maximizes workflow efficiency with dedicated zones for cooking, prep, and cleanup. A professional-grade range anchors the island, while the farmhouse sink positioned beneath large windows brings in natural light and enhances the everyday experience. Custom storage solutions—including extended cabinetry, integrated dish storage, and built-in appliance areas—ensure everything has its place without compromising the clean aesthetic.
Lighting was carefully layered to elevate both form and function. Statement pendant fixtures above the island add architectural interest, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination throughout the space.
The result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and livable—where bold design choices meet practical everyday use. It’s a space designed not just to cook in, but to gather, entertain, and truly enjoy.

A classic colonial transformation was the task at hand. Taking typical compartmentalized rooms and creating an open concept with expansive windows and updating all the finishes not only brought the outside in but also completely reconfigured the flow and sight lines of the home.
Set in a tranquil and private setting made maximizing natural light and vistas a priority. The walk-out basement now has open unobstructed views of the sparkling in-ground pool and native landscaping. Contemporary finishes, new custom built-in murphy bed and media wall, as well as a renovated full bath, wet bar and home gym tie the renovation together seamlessly.
The first floor overhaul consists of a true open concept kitchen, dining and living spaces. The kitchen was designed without upper cabinets allowing for panoramic outdoor views as well as open and airy work surfaces with tandem islands. A brand new mudroom was designed as the perfect transition between garage and renovated first level. Along with a brand new stair design, wall paneling, renovated powder room, flooring and new light fixtures throughout gave this outdated home a fresh facelift.
The exterior's total modification was enhanced with a distinct new entry flanked by substantial stone columns and double height entry. All new siding, windows and spacious deck completed the total improvements and created a truly remarkable before and after project!
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This kitchen remodel was designed to make a statement—balancing bold character with refined craftsmanship to create a space that’s both highly functional and visually unforgettable.
At the heart of the design is a striking contrast palette. Crisp white perimeter cabinetry keeps the space bright and open, while rich black lower cabinets and a substantial island ground the room with depth and sophistication. The oversized island serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering point, topped with a dramatic stone surface that adds movement and texture.
The flooring plays a defining role in the overall aesthetic. A custom black-and-white patterned tile layout introduces energy and personality, transforming the kitchen into a true design centerpiece while maintaining a timeless appeal. This bold foundation is thoughtfully balanced by clean lines, classic shaker cabinetry, and elegant hardware selections.
Functionality was a key driver throughout the project. The layout maximizes workflow efficiency with dedicated zones for cooking, prep, and cleanup. A professional-grade range anchors the island, while the farmhouse sink positioned beneath large windows brings in natural light and enhances the everyday experience. Custom storage solutions—including extended cabinetry, integrated dish storage, and built-in appliance areas—ensure everything has its place without compromising the clean aesthetic.
Lighting was carefully layered to elevate both form and function. Statement pendant fixtures above the island add architectural interest, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination throughout the space.
The result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and livable—where bold design choices meet practical everyday use. It’s a space designed not just to cook in, but to gather, entertain, and truly enjoy.

THE SETUP
Multiple ovens, multiple workspaces, multiple sinks – when you think about it, non-jewish kitchens have been adapting the criteria of kosher kitchens for years.
Gladys’ clients in West Rogers Park are Orthodox Jewish. The house they bought already had a kosher kitchen – it just wasn’t done that well. It needed some more things to be duplicated for the dairy side and the meat side. Plus, it was dark and the configuration wasn’t very conducive for a family of eight.
It was time for a remodel.
Design Objectives
Improve kosher kitchen
Add more storage in the island
Better lighting
More open, lighter feel
Change the wood floor in the kitchen to tile
THE REMODEL
Design Challenges
- We had originally planned on removing a wing wall by the breakfast area. During demolition, we learned it contained a support beam.
- The kitchen is a substantial size, but having two sinks, dishwashers, and ovens presented a challenge – how do we fit it all in and make it flow with the storage still accessible near the work areas?
Where do you stop the materials for the new space? - -- The right tile, paint, lighting, etc. would be needed to make the remodeled area cohesive with the rest of the main floor.
- An existing column limited cabinet options and thus, storage capacity. Could we conceal it without disrupting the cabinetry flow?
Design Solutions
- We had to keep the wing wall, but decided to continue the tile on the sides of the cabinets and maintain the height of the tile to line up with the rest of the backsplash. This actually presented a very nice and cohesive look, especially since the opposite side has a wing wall to the left of the refrigerator.
- We used “L-shaped” corner sinks instead of the rectangular ones set on an angle. This gave us more of the legs of the triangles versus the hypotenuse, which allowed for the two dishwashers, and the pullout utensil canisters and spice pullouts while still keeping the 3-drawer cabinets on either side of the range (by the sinks). The old island had the recess for stools which the family never used. By extending the width of the island 6” and utilizing this leg space, we were able to fit 18”-deep cabinets on this side – adding lots of accessible storage. The family can now work simultaneously on the dairy side (the side with the fridge) and the meat side (opposite) without getting in each other’s way. We separated the cooking by using the range oven for the meat and a built-in microwave in the base cabinet. The wall oven with built-in microwave on top is for dairy.
- Corner sinks opened up the middle area for a wider range – we went from a 30” to a 36”. Removing all the wall cabinets (on the range wall) made a big difference. That opened up the entire space while adding some visual impact. (Not pictured: We also made the cabinets directly opposite the range wall tall and removed the countertop, resulting in more room for rollouts and even more storage!) The kitchen now has more storage than it did before.
- We ended up painting the ceiling of the kitchen into the hallway that leads to the foyer. The living and dining rooms were separated by a soffit, so that became a natural boundary. We kept the tile in the kitchen by stopping it short of the hallway and lining it up with the pantry wall. This creates a border between the breakfast area and family room. The rest of the existing wood floors were refinished to refresh and make the hue darker. We also painted a dark accent wall and carried it into the breakfast area to make the rooms look deeper.
- The in-the-way column housed plumbing and couldn’t be moved. We still built cabinets in that spot – we just had to build a chase inside it to conceal the pipes. There was still plenty of room for new storage. We also took the cabinets all the way to the ceiling. The continuous tall cabinets added a functional elegance to the space.
THE RENEWED SPACE
The client’s long-awaited dream of a better kosher kitchen has finally been achieved, beautifully combining enhanced storage solutions with adherence to the family’s orthodox dietary laws. The kitchen’s standout feature, an expanded island, now offers a spacious and efficient workspace. This allows several family members to cook together comfortably, without the inconvenience of bumping into each other, ensuring a harmonious and productive cooking environment.

The substantial custom turned legs on the island give this large piece an elegant feel. Topped in white princess quartzite (a natural stone that looks like marble but is as durable as granite), this island comfortably seats 5 for dinner and lets the home-owner focus more on family time than the stress of keeping a softer stone clean and free of stains. The oak is ebonized and cerused to enhance the beautiful natural grain.

We build high end custom homes and perform large scale renovations in the Charleston area. Our client’s locations range south to Edisto, Kiawah, and Seabrook Island, north to Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Dunes West, all the way inland to Summerville.
Deep porches with generously appointed finishes complement the substantial presence of our homes. Exterior finishes, enhanced by their surroundings, create a lasting appearance that will stand the test of time. We focus on custom architectural style homes that truly represent the owner’s desires and vision.

This dining room exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends. The substantial wooden dining table and comfortable chairs provide ample seating for gatherings. The soft, neutral wall color and natural light create a serene and welcoming ambiance. The unique chandelier adds a touch of character and charm. The view through the windows offers a glimpse of the outdoors, enhancing the room's connection to nature.

The addition of a pergola to any deck or patio inherently enhances its aesthetic appeal. Our pergola in Highland Lakes exemplifies this, melding functionality with striking beauty. The structure offers a shaded retreat, essential for those warm Birmingham days, and a new dimension of vertical interest. This verticality adds a sense of height and openness, making the space feel larger and more inviting.
Moreover, the design of this pergola makes a bold architectural statement. We've given it a 'beefier' appearance by incorporating substantial 8x8 posts and robust 4x6 rafters. This choice ensures durability and contributes to a more pronounced, visually impactful presence in the outdoor area. These thoughtful details elevate our pergolas from mere additions to transformative elements of any outdoor space, perfectly blending elegance with practicality.
This functional aspect and our commitment to aesthetic excellence are at the heart of our approach to creating elegant pergola designs. It's how we cater to our clients’ diverse needs and tastes in Birmingham, AL, turning their outdoor visions into breathtaking realities.

The steep hillside lot had been developed with a single-family residence (1965), which was at the maximum area for local zoning; therefore, the only way to enlarge the residence was to add a basement. During the cost analysis process, it became clear that supporting the house while creating a basement – and then substantially remodeling the remaining structure – would require far more effort and treasure than to replace the house entirely.
Located just over one mile from the San Andreas Fault, the Owners tasked the design team to find a superior solution to the “Life Safety” standard required by Code. The team combined advances in seismic analysis and building technology to create for the owners one of the most seismically resilient houses built in the US.
The newly designed house takes full advantage of the potential of this beautiful site. The home centers on large public rooms opening to outdoor spaces and the use of natural light. On the top level, the kitchen and family room sit side-by-side creating a shared space, with an expansive floor-to-ceiling folding door system allowing the rooms to open completely to the south-facing upper terrace and garage roof deck. An outdoor cooking area supports both family dinners as well as large gatherings of friends and family. Also on the top level, a living room and lounge area open to a large deck cantilevered high above the ground and oriented to the northern views. The feeling of being “in the trees” enhances the connection to the impressive landscape.

The steep hillside lot had been developed with a single-family residence (1965), which was at the maximum area for local zoning; therefore, the only way to enlarge the residence was to add a basement. During the cost analysis process, it became clear that supporting the house while creating a basement – and then substantially remodeling the remaining structure – would require far more effort and treasure than to replace the house entirely.
Located just over one mile from the San Andreas Fault, the Owners tasked the design team to find a superior solution to the “Life Safety” standard required by Code. The team combined advances in seismic analysis and building technology to create for the owners one of the most seismically resilient houses built in the US.
The newly designed house takes full advantage of the potential of this beautiful site. The home centers on large public rooms opening to outdoor spaces and the use of natural light. On the top level, the kitchen and family room sit side-by-side creating a shared space, with an expansive floor-to-ceiling folding door system allowing the rooms to open completely to the south-facing upper terrace and garage roof deck. An outdoor cooking area supports both family dinners as well as large gatherings of friends and family. Also on the top level, a living room and lounge area open to a large deck cantilevered high above the ground and oriented to the northern views. The feeling of being “in the trees” enhances the connection to the impressive landscape.

We are delighted to unveil our latest accomplishment: adding a brand-new, beautifully designed full bathroom to a once single-bathroom home. This impressive transformation elevates the property to a more functional and comfortable two-bathroom residence, catering to the evolving needs of the occupants.
Our highly skilled team meticulously crafted this exquisite bathroom from top to bottom, ensuring that every detail met the highest standards. The project involved creating a new space within the home where none existed before, turning a previously unused area into an elegant sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Now featuring premium quality fixtures, tiling, and expert craftsmanship, this meticulously designed bathroom seamlessly blends both form and function. The new addition not only enhances the daily lives of the homeowners but also adds substantial value and appeal to the property.

A classic colonial transformation was the task at hand. Taking typical compartmentalized rooms and creating an open concept with expansive windows and updating all the finishes not only brought the outside in but also completely reconfigured the flow and sight lines of the home.
Set in a tranquil and private setting made maximizing natural light and vistas a priority. The walk-out basement now has open unobstructed views of the sparkling in-ground pool and native landscaping. Contemporary finishes, new custom built-in murphy bed and media wall, as well as a renovated full bath, wet bar and home gym tie the renovation together seamlessly.
The first floor overhaul consists of a true open concept kitchen, dining and living spaces. The kitchen was designed without upper cabinets allowing for panoramic outdoor views as well as open and airy work surfaces with tandem islands. A brand new mudroom was designed as the perfect transition between garage and renovated first level. Along with a brand new stair design, wall paneling, renovated powder room, flooring and new light fixtures throughout gave this outdated home a fresh facelift.
The exterior's total modification was enhanced with a distinct new entry flanked by substantial stone columns and double height entry. All new siding, windows and spacious deck completed the total improvements and created a truly remarkable before and after project!

A spacious great room designed as a clean, open canvas, highlighting architectural simplicity and warmth. The brick fireplace serves as the central focal point, complete with a substantial hearth and wood mantle that adds natural texture and balance. Expansive windows bring in abundant natural light, enhancing the soft neutral walls and creating an airy, inviting atmosphere. Wide-plank hardwood flooring runs throughout, grounding the space with warmth and continuity. Paired with recessed lighting and a statement ceiling fixture, this great room is thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and future personalization.

We build high end custom homes and perform large scale renovations in the Charleston area. Our client’s locations range south to Edisto, Kiawah, and Seabrook Island, north to Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Dunes West.
Deep porches with generously appointed finishes complement the substantial presence of our homes. Exterior finishes, enhanced by their surroundings, create a lasting appearance that will stand the test of time. We focus on custom architectural style homes that truly represent the owner’s desires and vision.

Transform your outdoor space with the Elementi Fire Pit Table, a perfect blend of style and functionality. Featuring a sleek black base and a polished tabletop, this contemporary fire pit not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides substantial warmth with its powerful burner. Built to endure the elements and enhance your gatherings, it offers both a stylish centerpiece and a reliable source of heat for cozy nights with friends and family.

This beautifully appointed dining room offers a sophisticated space for formal gatherings and everyday meals. The long, substantial dining table serves as the centerpiece, complemented by classic wooden chairs. Large windows flood the room with natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The elegant chandelier provides a warm and ambient glow, enhancing the room's refined character. Note the detailed crown molding and neutral wall color, which add to the room's timeless appeal.

A classic colonial transformation was the task at hand. Taking typical compartmentalized rooms and creating an open concept with expansive windows and updating all the finishes not only brought the outside in but also completely reconfigured the flow and sight lines of the home.
Set in a tranquil and private setting made maximizing natural light and vistas a priority. The walk-out basement now has open unobstructed views of the sparkling in-ground pool and native landscaping. Contemporary finishes, new custom built-in murphy bed and media wall, as well as a renovated full bath, wet bar and home gym tie the renovation together seamlessly.
The first floor overhaul consists of a true open concept kitchen, dining and living spaces. The kitchen was designed without upper cabinets allowing for panoramic outdoor views as well as open and airy work surfaces with tandem islands. A brand new mudroom was designed as the perfect transition between garage and renovated first level. Along with a brand new stair design, wall paneling, renovated powder room, flooring and new light fixtures throughout gave this outdated home a fresh facelift.
The exterior's total modification was enhanced with a distinct new entry flanked by substantial stone columns and double height entry. All new siding, windows and spacious deck completed the total improvements and created a truly remarkable before and after project!

This dining room in the lake house offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, creating an inviting space for gatherings and meals. The centerpiece is a substantial wooden dining table with a natural finish, highlighting the wood's grain and texture.
Overhead, a distinctive chandelier with industrial-inspired design adds a modern flair to the room. The circular glass shades provide warm, ambient lighting, enhancing the cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
This dining area is designed to be both functional and stylish, creating a beautiful backdrop for memorable meals in the heart of the lake house.

We build high end custom homes and perform large scale renovations in the Charleston area. Our client’s locations range south to Edisto, Kiawah, and Seabrook Island, north to Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Dunes West, all the way inland to Summerville.
Deep porches with generously appointed finishes complement the substantial presence of our homes. Exterior finishes, enhanced by their surroundings, create a lasting appearance that will stand the test of time. We focus on custom architectural style homes that truly represent the owner’s desires and vision.
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