Search results for "Substantial transformations" in Home Design Ideas

This contemporary conservatory is located just off of historic Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The stately home featured many classic exterior details and was located in the heart of the famous district, so Sunspace worked closely with the owners and their architect to design a space that would blend with the existing home and ultimately be approved for construction by the Cambridge Historical Commission.
The project began with the removal of an old greenhouse structure which had outlived its usefulness. The removal of the greenhouse gave the owners the perfect opportunity substantially upgrade the space. Sunspace opened the wall between the conservatory and the existing home to allow natural light to penetrate the building. We used Marvin windows and doors to help create the look we needed for the exterior, thereby creating a seamless blend between the existing and new construction.
The clients requested a space that would be comfortable year-round, so the use of energy efficient doors and windows as well as high performance roof glass was critically important. We chose a PPG Solar Ban 70 XL treatment and added Argon glass. The efficiency of the roof glass and the Marvin windows allowed us to provide an economical approach to the client’s heating and air conditioning needs.
The final result saw the transformation of an outdated space and into a historically appropriate custom glass space which allows for beautiful, natural light to enter the home. The clients now use this space every day.

Well-traveled. Relaxed. Timeless.
Our well-traveled clients were soon-to-be empty nesters when they approached us for help reimagining their Presidio Heights home. The expansive Spanish-Revival residence originally constructed in 1908 had been substantially renovated 8 year prior, but needed some adaptations to better suit the needs of a family with three college-bound teens. We evolved the space to be a bright, relaxed reflection of the family’s time together, revising the function and layout of the ground-floor rooms and filling them with casual, comfortable furnishings and artifacts collected abroad.
One of the key changes we made to the space plan was to eliminate the formal dining room and transform an area off the kitchen into a casual gathering spot for our clients and their children. The expandable table and coffee/wine bar means the room can handle large dinner parties and small study sessions with similar ease. The family room was relocated from a lower level to be more central part of the main floor, encouraging more quality family time, and freeing up space for a spacious home gym.
In the living room, lounge-worthy upholstery grounds the space, encouraging a relaxed and effortless West Coast vibe. Exposed wood beams recall the original Spanish-influence, but feel updated and fresh in a light wood stain. Throughout the entry and main floor, found artifacts punctate the softer textures — ceramics from New Mexico, religious sculpture from Asia and a quirky wall-mounted phone that belonged to our client’s grandmother.

The Hunter House “Cenote” project draws from the raw, organic feel of Mexico’s natural swimming caves, brought to life using RicoRock cast concrete elements. Rock Formations Texas (RFT) transformed the space with textured limestone interiors, substantial 6-foot structural footings, a dramatic 35-foot bridge crossing, and vertical piers sculpted to resemble authentic tree bark. Flowing water features and a grotto-style retreat complete the scene, showcasing how RicoRock products help RFT turn imaginative concepts into fully immersive backyard experiences.
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Designed by the homeowners themselves, this striking staircase rises through multiple levels with architectural precision. Dark-toned square balusters and newels create bold contrast against crisp white risers, while horizontal stainless steel rods maintain visual lightness.
The brilliance lies in the interplay of angles, levels, textures, and natural light. Strategic design choices transform the staircase into more than a connector. It carves out cozy sunny nooks and creates focal points throughout the open floor plan, proving that thoughtful geometry can shape how a home feels and functions.
1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Taking our cue from the beautiful, wooded-view, we transformed this corner-office into a peaceful, professional retreat. Being the office of Carrie, the owner and founder of Cedar, we wanted it to feel substantial. We achieved this with the quality pieces that we selected - everything from the Mid-Century Modern console tables to the gray, linen sofa.

This kitchen renovation transformed the existing space with a dramatic new material palette while working largely within the home's established footprint.
Dark charcoal shaker-style cabinetry replaced the previous kitchen storage, creating a sophisticated contrast against bright white quartz countertops with expressive gray veining. The new cabinetry extends vertically with stacked upper cabinets and glass-front accents, maximizing storage while giving the kitchen a more substantial, built-in appearance.
A glossy gray subway tile backsplash adds dimension and subtle reflection along the main cooking and prep areas, complementing the stainless steel appliances and brushed metal cabinet hardware. The cooktop wall was redesigned around a streamlined stainless steel range hood, while a tall appliance cabinet integrates the double ovens into the surrounding cabinetry for a cleaner, more cohesive look.
Generous quartz work surfaces continue through the kitchen, including the island and sink area, providing additional prep space and reinforcing the high-contrast palette. The dark cabinetry is balanced by light flooring, soft neutral walls, and white countertops, keeping the room bright despite the deeper cabinet finish.
The result is a modern transitional kitchen that feels more refined, organized, and intentional while preserving the functionality of the existing layout.
Design features: dark shaker cabinetry, semi-custom kitchen cabinets, stacked upper cabinets, glass-front cabinets, white quartz countertops, gray-veined quartz, glossy subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, double wall ovens, built-in microwave, stainless steel range hood, brushed metal hardware, kitchen island, undermount sink, and large-format tile flooring.

An existing 70’s brick home nestled streets away from the beach, is in dire need of a transformation. The existing home had the bones to accommodate a substantial renovation, some modifications to the layout, adding an extension and exaggerating the existing raked ceilings in the main living area impacts the new home.
The home itself is a relatively disjointed 70’s home, so cleaver planning was imperative to make the most of the interior space. Large open plan living areas with adjoining outdoor entertaining was important. The owners are a young family who enjoy family and entertaining so interaction with the outdoor alfresco was essential not only for quality of living but to appear as a continuation of the main living area to increase the zone visually.
My client’s fresh approach; introduction of modern materials with a hint of Scandinavian and industrial, an improved working area and a functional space for cooking and preparing meals.

Decorate your living space with an exceptional area rug that brings both elegance and comfort to your home. Rugs are fundamental in interior design, providing not only visual appeal but also warmth and texture to any room. Whether you're enhancing a cozy living room or adding a sophisticated touch to your bedroom, selecting the right rug can profoundly impact your home’s ambiance.
When considering living room rugs, you have a multitude of options to choose from. For expansive spaces, oversized rugs or large carpets are perfect for creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. These substantial pieces can anchor a room, offering both style and function. Opting for a huge carpet for the living room adds a layer of luxury and comfort, making your space feel more grand and sumptuous.
For a more customized touch, explore large living room carpet rugs. These generously sized rugs provide extensive coverage and are ideal for adding a plush, cushioned feel to your floor. The scale of these rugs makes them perfect for enhancing the comfort and visual interest of larger rooms, creating a welcoming environment for relaxation and social gatherings.
In addition to traditional living room options, consider floor carpets and mats for the kitchen. These practical yet stylish additions can infuse your kitchen with warmth and coziness. Kitchen mats, in particular, are designed to handle spills and stains, ensuring they remain both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
When selecting rugs, pay attention to the material and maintenance needs. For high-traffic areas like the living room, durability and ease of cleaning are key. Look for rugs with stain-resistant properties or those that are machine washable to ensure they stay looking fresh. Non-slip or adhesive backings are also important, particularly for hardwood or tile floors, to prevent slips and ensure stability.
Additionally, consider the comfort factor. Cushioned rugs can enhance the overall feel of your space, making it more inviting and enjoyable. Personalized or custom rugs allow you to select specific designs, colors, and sizes that perfectly match your decor and preferences. An 8x10 rug, for example, offers ample coverage for larger rooms and adds versatility to your decorating options.
A well-chosen rug is not just a decorative element but also a practical investment in your home’s comfort and style. Whether you’re choosing a large rug for a spacious living room, a floor carpet for the kitchen, or a big carpet to make a bold statement, the right rug can transform your living environment into a stylish and comfortable retreat. Discover a variety of styles, materials, and sizes to find the ideal rug that complements your decor and enhances the functionality of your space.

Well-traveled. Relaxed. Timeless.
Our well-traveled clients were soon-to-be empty nesters when they approached us for help reimagining their Presidio Heights home. The expansive Spanish-Revival residence originally constructed in 1908 had been substantially renovated 8 year prior, but needed some adaptations to better suit the needs of a family with three college-bound teens. We evolved the space to be a bright, relaxed reflection of the family’s time together, revising the function and layout of the ground-floor rooms and filling them with casual, comfortable furnishings and artifacts collected abroad.
One of the key changes we made to the space plan was to eliminate the formal dining room and transform an area off the kitchen into a casual gathering spot for our clients and their children. The expandable table and coffee/wine bar means the room can handle large dinner parties and small study sessions with similar ease. The family room was relocated from a lower level to be more central part of the main floor, encouraging more quality family time, and freeing up space for a spacious home gym.
In the living room, lounge-worthy upholstery grounds the space, encouraging a relaxed and effortless West Coast vibe. Exposed wood beams recall the original Spanish-influence, but feel updated and fresh in a light wood stain. Throughout the entry and main floor, found artifacts punctate the softer textures — ceramics from New Mexico, religious sculpture from Asia and a quirky wall-mounted phone that belonged to our client’s grandmother.

The Hunter House “Cenote” project draws from the raw, organic feel of Mexico’s natural swimming caves, brought to life using RicoRock cast concrete elements. Rock Formations Texas (RFT) transformed the space with textured limestone interiors, substantial 6-foot structural footings, a dramatic 35-foot bridge crossing, and vertical piers sculpted to resemble authentic tree bark. Flowing water features and a grotto-style retreat complete the scene, showcasing how RicoRock products help RFT turn imaginative concepts into fully immersive backyard experiences.

Formal Backyard Garden Showcases the Beauty of Natural Gray Concrete
This Pacific Northwest project called for a total backyard transformation that required a significant reduction in lawn space, most of which was saturated and mossy. Emily of Emily Russell Landscape Architecture designed this formal backyard garden which was installed by Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC.
Previously unused space was organized through the creation of a courtyard patio which functions as an extension of the house that the homeowner can use for family gatherings, entertaining, or reflection. Budgetary concerns led her to opt for concrete rather than a mortared flagstone patio. “I always let homeowners know that we can do either for them, but to me, going with concrete is an easy choice to make because of the cost savings,” says Colby Brand, President of Northwest of Construction & Landscape, LLC.
Ashlar slate stamped concrete was suggested by Colby to mimic the pattern used in Emily’s conceptual design. The final plan featured natural gray, ashlar slate stamped concrete with antique coloring for texture. Colby and his team poured the steps first. Substantial in size – the rise is 4’ with a run of 5,’ and includes a 4’ landing on top – the steps allow an easy and fluid transition from inside to outside.
After the steps were completed, the curved walkway on the side of the house was poured, connecting the backyard to the front yard. Instead of a conventional, rectangular shape for the 647 sf courtyard patio area, the formality of the plan called for sections of the concrete to bump out into the garden beds against the back side of the house, tying the contrasting elements together.
Granite urns and curved, concrete benches purchased by the homeowner rest atop the rounded portion of the concrete and provide a space for sitting and an inviting view from the house. Regarding the final product, Emily Russell states, “My client and I are extremely happy with the finished patio. It's such an inviting space that is well loved and used on a regular basis.”

An architectural wonder transformed with the sophisticated application of Hardie panels and V-groove siding. This substantial endeavor has not only added a great value to the property but has also redefined the aesthetic appeal with its immaculate quality and precision.
Every inch of this project reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering perfection. Our skilled artisans meticulously installed the Hardie panels, renowned for their durability and elegance, complemented by the classic beauty of V-groove siding. Together, they breathe life into the exterior, ensuring it's not only structurally robust but visually stunning.
While the scale of the project is immense, our dedication to quality and detail remains unhindered. We've masterfully executed every aspect, reflecting the high standards we uphold at our company. The result is a visual treat that stands as a testament to our craftsmanship and passion for delivering nothing but the best.

A substantial black walnut slab meets a glowing celestial river. This artisan table features a deep-pour "galaxy" blue epoxy inlay with metallic flakes, transforming natural wood into a luminous, show-stopping work of art.
Key Features:
Material: Solid black walnut with live edge, metallic mica flakes in blue epoxy
Durability: Fully cured epoxy is waterproof, stains-resistant, and easy to maintain
Versatility: Ideal for modern, rustic, or eclectic interiors; dining table, office desk, or patio centerpiece
A premium solution for homeowners and designers seeking a unique blend of natural luxury and artistic fantasy.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Taking our cue from the beautiful, wooded-view, we transformed this corner-office into a peaceful, professional retreat. Being the office of Carrie, the owner and founder of Cedar, we wanted it to feel substantial. We achieved this with the quality pieces that we selected - everything from the Mid-Century Modern console tables to the gray, linen sofa.

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!

Designed with timeless transitional style, this dining room pairs a soft neutral palette with elegant textures and warm metallic finishes. A sculptural gold chandelier creates a striking focal point above the substantial dining table, while a custom wine display transforms the textured accent wall into functional artwork. Comfortable upholstered seating and refined details complete a space designed for effortless entertaining and memorable family gatherings.

This remodel transformed a dark and tiny kitchen into a bright and fresh space with lots of function and working surface. This client's space was inherently tiny, and budget didn't quite allow for expansion. So, we had to make the most of what we had! In working with the existing footprint, we were able to introduce taller cabinetry, integrate convenient storage features in base cabinets, and install a massive countertop that provides substantial hosting and prepping surface from three sides. With an exceptionally pretty backsplash and a fun pop of color in the bar stools, this kitchen brings home a fresh transitional look that carries simplicity and convenience throughout.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

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.

With an unusually long and narrow footprint, this master bathroom was transformed into a balanced space with modern, dark wood cabinetry flanking either side of the room. The horizontal grain of the wood compliments the long silhouette of the overall space, with three large, square mirrors placed equidistantly for balance and serenity. The long wall allows ample space for two, generous vanities and a substantial makeup table. Significant tall storage occupies the niche on the opposite wall

This delightful space takes it's inspiration from Gustavian design - with a fresh twist. Winning architectural elements are accentuated by adding more substantial trim, painting the ceiling an ethereal blue and covering walls with a subtle faux bois design. The narrow entry hall is opened up by applying an eco chic wallpaper resembling a stand of birch. The updated wing chair, stunning chandelier and clean roman shades give a contemporary vibe to the vintage decor and transform
the niche into a charming focal point.
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