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.

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.

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.

This was a major transformation in a Chatham home off Riverside Drive in Sandy Springs, Georgia. A peninsula was removed and replaced with a substantial island and large cased openings to the living and sunroom.

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.

In a mere week, the once dreary and outdated kitchen, typical of contractor-grade designs, underwent a remarkable transformation, turning from dull to dazzling. The original 1995 oak cabinets, sporting a dated roman arched style, were replaced with sleek, bright white modern shaker cabinets adorned with striking brushed gold accents. To enhance functionality, roll-out shelves were incorporated, complemented by all-new dove-tailed drawers featuring full-extension soft-close slides. An empty expanse of wall was ingeniously converted into a chic beverage station, complete with elegant glass doors. The wall cabinets were elevated with the addition of substantial crown molding, lending an air of sophistication. The laminate countertops were exchanged for luxurious quartz, elevating both aesthetics and durability. Moreover, an overhang was seamlessly integrated into the island, offering supplementary seating. To tie the design together, a tasteful greige porcelain subway tile backsplash was introduced, infusing the space with modern elegance and timeless charm.

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.

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.

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

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.

The primary bathroom underwent a remarkable transformation during this project. Initially, it featured a cramped, traditional prefabricated shower and an oversized jetted tub that the clients rarely used. To optimize the space and enhance functionality, we made substantial changes. We removed both the shower and the bathtub, allowing us to construct a spacious, tiled, curbless shower in their place.

Collaboration of nature and modern home design Often when motivations point to a more modern interior space, the direction of materials and furnishings leans to hard lines, harsh juxtaposition of cold finishes and a level of simplicity that can feel sterile. When broad horizons, airy space and modern inclinations was on this client’s wish list, we dug in on nailing the right overall schematic flow, affording opportunity for natural textures and selections in a warmer, neutral palette to collaborate in order to develop harmonious ambiance and depth. Notable project highlights were efforts to open up and carve out a chef’s kitchen with modern appliances, bold wooden & quartz-clad bar for gatherings, an extra guest bedroom off the entry that could double as a hide-away video game room, and a master suite with a more suitable layout for work at home office setup, optimized waterfront view potential, and fresh bathroom aesthetics. Maximizing the architectural potential Broad glass sliders, floor-to-ceiling fixed pane windows in a dark bronze metal finish and a magnificent custom mahogany front door added great architectural features to this formerly mostly characterless home. Appointing the right wall coverings and solid surface materials furthered the goals of flow, serenity and balance. Achieving a beautiful symbiosis of rich darks and soft lights, coastal-inspired textures in the furnishings – everything from the bleached wood-look tile floors to the thin bamboo burnout-pattern window treatments – work towards a multi-layered, coastal contemporary vibe inspired by the home’s natural surroundings that the client loved. This client trusted the process; let us run with our vision for something completely unique and landed with an amazing turn-key project that exceeded all expectations, particularly with COVID and a hurricane taking out bridge access to the property. A primary residence sure – but we definitely also created a getaway in it’s own right. We love the transformation and know this home’s value increased substantially by the time we were done!

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!

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.

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!

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

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 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.

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