This contemporary design iteration infuses the homeowner's personal yard with a distinctive touch of urban chic. Anchored by a cozy covered dining area featuring a fireplace, the outdoor living space exudes comfort and ease. Pavers set amidst turf define the area, housing a luxurious pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, and chaise lounge section. Enclosed by a substantial privacy hedge, this transformative space expands its modest size, transporting visitors to a realm of resort-style living.

This homeowner had been considering new exterior siding for their home in Manasquan, NJ for some time. A sub-division in Long Branch of new high end homes; caught their attention due to the combination of stone and vinyl siding that provided great curb appeal and increased value to their home. The homeowner required the knowledge of Design Build expertise and residential remodeling experience. They knew this could not be found from a siding contractor or stone mason alone. Help was needed with the Design aspect of the project that would transform their weather worn exterior into a beautifully built new home. Their internet research; led them to Mark of Excellence Remodeling, a Design Build Pros Preferred Network Remodeler. Before their consultation with the Project Designer they looked into the reputation of the company with the BBB where the company had an A plus rating and were able to see the company had been doing business and completed numerous projects in Monmouth County over their 28 year history. Monmouth County vinyl and stone siding remodel in Manasquan, NJ (10)The Project Designer met with the customer and went through our needs analysis process. The customer wanted little or no future maintenance, energy efficiency and an up to date and up market appearance. We recommended a full back insulated vinyl siding material for this large home; which would improve energy efficiency and improve the value proposition of the investment. The homeowner had a very specific color combination in mind and the Project Designer determined that Somerset Wheat Prodigy Siding would be ideal in combination with Savannah Ledge Vintage Wine Boral Stone as the main two elements of the exterior. The Project Designer added some architectural accents; a stone arch front entrance to the home in conjunction two stone flower containers. Mark of Excellence Remodeling completely re-framed the front entrance working with Pella windows and doors for the entry door system. Additional features included Prodigy window lineal to give the front windows a more substantial and elegant appearance. Color coordinated exterior trim for soffits and fascia in Adobe Cream, seamless gutters and leaders in Eggshell and Wicker Keystones pull the color pallet and architectural components together. Here is how the home looked BEFORE the exterior makeover and remodeling: BEFORE vinyl and stone siding remodel in Manasquan, NJ (1) BEFORE vinyl and stone siding remodel in Manasquan, NJ (2) The homeowner had a particular challenge with the projecting bay windows on the front and rear of the home. The Project Designer felt that to effectively emulate the exterior siding project the homeowner had seen in Long Branch; the application of AZEK building products exterior trim would break up the predominance of Summer Wheat on large wall areas. The homeowner had already selected low maintenance garage doors which were only available in white. With some direction on the door style from the Project Designer the use of AZEK trim was the ideal complement to the finished doors. A team experienced in emulating traditional construction using AZEK building products was brought in for the bay area detail. This Siding and Stone Project in Monmouth County New Jersey is the envy of the neighborhood!

This transformative remodel and addition project reused the existing footprint and foundation of the former home and delivers an entirely different aesthetic to the property. The design takes cues from the International Style of the early 1900s but is contemporary in its form, materials and function. Large window and door openings bring in substantial natural light and the panoramic views of the Flatirons and Mt. Sanitas. New mechanical systems, lighting, and smart home technologies bring this home into the current century and beyond. The carriage house compliments the form of the main residence and provides a welcoming, private sanctuary for guests.

Mouse on House
Example of a mid-sized classic yellow two-story wood exterior home design in DC Metro

This rustic live edge Walnut dining table tells a story that began right on our client’s property in Hartland, Michigan. Crafted from Walnut that came from a tree on their own land, the table preserves a meaningful piece of their property and gives it new life as a gathering place their family can enjoy for generations. The natural live edges were preserved to celebrate the organic shape and character of the tree, while the rich tones and distinctive grain of the Walnut remain the focal point throughout the design. An all-wood base with substantial Walnut legs continues that character from the tabletop to the floor, creating a cohesive, rustic look without introducing contrasting materials. Beyond its beauty, this custom dining table represents what makes handcrafted furniture so personal. Instead of allowing a tree with a connection to their property to disappear, our clients were able to transform it into a functional piece of their home, one that will become the backdrop for family meals, celebrations, and everyday moments. Unlike mass-produced dining tables made from particle board or veneer, our live edge dining tables are handcrafted from solid USA-sourced hardwood that's built to last for generations. Every slab is individually selected for its grain, character, and natural beauty, making each piece as unique as the family who gathers around it. As a custom furniture maker we specialize in building furniture that is entirely unique; 100% custom crafted. We are furniture builders that design pieces that fit to your space and vision, and it all starts with a conversation.

In this kitchen up in Desert Mountain, we provided all of the cabinetry, countertops and backsplash to create the Mid Century Modern style for our clients remodel. The transformation is substantial compared to the size and layout it was before, making it more linear and doubling in size. For the perimeter we have white skinny shaker cabinetry with pops of Hickory wood to add some warmth and a seamless countertop backsplash. The island features painted black cabinetry with the skinny shaker style for some contrast and is over 14' long with enough seating for 8 people. In the fireplace bar area, we have also the black cabinetry with a fun pop of color for the backsplash tile along with honed black granite countertops. The selection choices of painted cabinetry, wood tones, gold metals, concrete flooring and furniture selections carry the style throughout and brings in great texture, contrast and warmth.

This contemporary design iteration infuses the homeowner's personal yard with a distinctive touch of urban chic. Anchored by a cozy covered dining area featuring a fireplace, the outdoor living space exudes comfort and ease. Pavers set amidst turf define the area, housing a luxurious pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, and chaise lounge section. Enclosed by a substantial privacy hedge, this transformative space expands its modest size, transporting visitors to a realm of resort-style living.

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 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.

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 sightlines 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!

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 Challenge: Create a rugged yet warm farmhouse feel in a high rise tower. Start with an entire 9600 gross square foot penthouse floor of raw concrete floor, walls and ceiling. Devise inventive ways to address intractable existing conditions including a plumbing layout inconsistent with our Client program, a relatively low ceiling and a massive elevator core and yet take of advantage of panoramic views of the city from all sides. For example, rather than make a bulky drywall enclosure for existing pipes that poke thru the kitchen counter, they are wrapped with antique painted galvanized sheet metal to keep sight lines around the corner as open as possible. Or, transform an unattractive and inconveniently located 24” diameter vertical duct in the middle of Samantha’s and Hannah’s (grandchildren’s) guest bedroom into part of a lovely arched top bed nook. Or, disguise a chase for above floor plumbing runs as the base for an open buffet counter. The oppressive elevator lobby was shortened; terminating in handmade glass and steel garden doors at both ends. Custom details include a groined vaulted ceiling and arched openings with stone pilasters (for future trompe-l’oeil images of a Tuscany countryside). To maximize a feeling of height, the ceilings start low and get higher as they progress to the outside walls. The Program: Create a five bedroom condo for an elderly couple with specific and different needs. Mr. likes his privacy and to stay up late into the night on the internet. He likes order. Mrs. has some physical limits that have been addressed in various ways such as shorter travel distances, a step down shower, raised dishwasher and custom cast (to ensure that they won’t rust) iron grab bars. She prefers more disorder. Spaces should be visually arresting, full of detail and easy to maintain. Private spaces include separate master bathrooms, his and her offices and a multi screened Media Room. The balance of the floor must link spaces into one continuous open room along the south and east elevations using large elements yet keeping an intimate scale, sound control and privacy. For example, a substantial fireplace made of old barn timber framing, country stone and a hammered iron grill is strategically located at the critical Southeast corner. Above, black iron offset pintel hardware allow custom double doors to hide a large flat screen TV. High technology is in place for inconspicuous yet easy use. Icon driven key pads operate lighting, window treatments, audio visual systems with multiple sources and access to movie and music databases and five HVAC zones with independent humidity controls. Outstanding Features: Exterior masonry walls have stone culled from five quarries. Sprinkled throughout are surprises - bricks with words as messages from the past, wood trimmed niches and colored glass. Glass pieces set in window corners offer bursts of color when backlit by the sun. These materials are assembled in a rough irregular fashion to look like the work of a mason from the Italian countryside. Interior ceilings and walls have overlapping layers of two plaster colors. Perimeter ceilings are made of smooth random width cedar. Rough planed cedar beams hide ductwork and allow the maximum ceiling height between them. Custom details are everywhere-consider the ten foot barn doors on overhead track at the service elevator, cedar benches/storage areas that run below window banks, antique air registers, acid washed piano hinges and transom window operators and existing concrete piers that are featured instead of hidden. The floors are made of random width wide plank old oak with hand planed faces and edges. Overall, the elements were carefully selected or painted/stained to form a soft muted gray palate The Country kitchen features an old fashioned style ice box appearance for the refrigerator/freezer, a tin ceiling, a distressed assortment of cabinets in multiple heights, colors and woods such as the cherry wood buffet cabinet with sliding glass doors on both sides. A backlit breakfast counter, a hammered copper hood and chicken wire inserts are part of the effort to make a comfortable, eclectic old fashioned looking Kitchen while containing the latest appliances and storage systems. Awards: This project has won several kitchen and bath awards: Felman Kitchen Awards 2009 St. Louis Homes and Lifestyles Kitchen of the Year – Gold Award 2008-2009 SubZero Wolf Kitchen Design Contest – Regional Winner, Regional Designer’s Choice 2010 NKBA Art of the Industry – Pinnacle of Design Award 2010 NKBA Art of the Industry – First Place Medium Kitchen 2010 NKBA Art of the Industry – Consumer’s Choice Award 2010 K&BB Kitchen of the Year Award Felman Bath Awards 2010 Ladue News Award—Master Bathroom

This contemporary design iteration infuses the homeowner's personal yard with a distinctive touch of urban chic. Anchored by a cozy covered dining area featuring a fireplace, the outdoor living space exudes comfort and ease. Pavers set amidst turf define the area, housing a luxurious pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, and chaise lounge section. Enclosed by a substantial privacy hedge, this transformative space expands its modest size, transporting visitors to a realm of resort-style living.

Viewed from above, this two-story great room highlights the thoughtful furniture layout and intentional space planning that make the home equally suited for everyday living and entertaining. The seating arrangement creates multiple conversation zones while maintaining an open connection to the custom fireplace, kitchen, and outdoor living areas. A warm cognac leather sectional is paired with sculptural blue lounge chairs to introduce contrast and personality, while a substantial white oak coffee table anchors the room with natural warmth. The custom fireplace, finished with a white plaster surround and floating stained wood mantel, provides a timeless architectural focal point. Flanking arched display cabinets showcase meaningful artwork, books, and collected treasures, adding character and a personal touch to the space. Layered textures, natural materials, and carefully curated furnishings create a welcoming environment that feels sophisticated without sacrificing comfort. This design demonstrates how thoughtful space planning and furniture selection can transform a large, open-concept room into an intimate and highly functional gathering place for family and friends. Design Style Refined Organic Contemporary Warm Contemporary Organic Modern Contemporary Luxury Modern Transitional Luxury living room, great room, open concept living room, furniture layout, space planning, living room design, designer living room, luxury furniture, cognac leather sectional, blue accent chairs, conversation seating, white oak coffee table, custom fireplace, plaster fireplace, floating wood mantel, built-in display cabinets, arched cabinets, custom millwork, organic modern, refined contemporary, warm contemporary, modern transitional, luxury home, custom home, whole home design, new construction, layered textures, natural materials, curated interiors, family room, entertaining space, residential interior design, Colorado interior designer, Denver interior designer, Castle Pines interior design, luxury interior design, high-end interiors, timeless interiors, bespoke interiors

Once home to antiquarian Horace Walpole, ‘Heckfield Place’ has been judiciously re-crafted into an ‘effortlessly stylish' countryside hotel with beautiful bedrooms, as well as two restaurants, a private cinema, Little Bothy spa, wine cellar, gardens and Home Farm, centred on sustainability and biodynamic farming principles. Spratley & Partners completed the dramatic transformation of the 430-acre site in Hampshire into the UK’s most eagerly anticipated, luxury hotel in 2018, after a significant programme of restoration works which began in 2009 for private investment company, Morningside Group. Later, modern additions to the site, which was being used as a conference centre and wedding venue, were largely unsympathetic and not in-keeping with the original form and layout; the house was extended in the 1980s with a block of bedrooms and conference facilities which were small, basic and required substantial upgrading. The rooms in the listed building had also been subdivided, creating cramped spaces and disrupting the historical plan of the house. After years of careful restoration and collaboration, this elegant, Grade II listed Georgian house and estate has been brought back to life and sensitively woven into its secluded landscape surroundings.

Master-Crafted Display Gallery: The Ultimate Estate Feature For the homeowner with a world-class collection, a standard shelf simply won't suffice. This expansive, custom-engineered gallery niche was built to provide a museum-quality backdrop for large-scale sculptures. Spanning the length of the living area, this feature integrates structural framing with high-end finish work to create a truly one-of-a-kind interior. Premium Features: Book-Matched Stone Backdrop: The use of large-format, heavily veined dark marble provides a dramatic, high-contrast canvas that makes the intricate details of the artwork pop. Continuous Linear LED Lighting: A single, unbroken recessed light channel provides even, glare-free illumination across the entire display, highlighting the fluid movement of each piece. Granite Display Ledge: The heavy-duty granite surface is engineered to support substantial weight while maintaining a slim, elegant profile that matches the kitchen’s stone accents. Architectural Consistency: The radius-cornered wood casing ensures that this modern gallery space feels like an organic extension of the home’s rustic-contemporary architecture.

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 sightlines 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!

We've transformed this cozy courtyard by the river valley into the ultimate focal point of this home. A substantial custom cedar pergola was created as the centrepiece, with plenty of spacing underneath for relaxing and entertaining. Rich, green foliage was used to emphasize the lush feeling of the forest. Artificial turf was used throughout to maintain a neat and verdant look without the upkeep involved, perfect for the homeowner's dog. Using a variety of paving stone throughout creates interest as well as tie in the entire courtyard together, making it flow. This courtyard is the ultimate summer relaxation spot, and we are pleased to help these wonderful homeowners create it! Designed by Zac Marks

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.