Modern Style your living room or bedroom into an exquisite retreat with the perfect area rug, an essential element that combines both style and practicality. A thoughtfully selected rug not only anchors the space but also infuses it with warmth, texture, and personality. Whether you're enhancing a cozy bedroom or designing a spacious living area, choosing the right rug is crucial to creating a harmonious and inviting environment. The design of your area rug can profoundly influence the overall ambiance of your room. For a touch of opulence, consider hand-tufted or hand-knotted rugs, which are renowned for their intricate patterns and luxurious textures. These rugs, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, make a sophisticated statement in any setting. If a contemporary aesthetic appeals to you, machine-woven rugs are an excellent choice. They are available in an array of vibrant patterns and hues and are engineered to endure high foot traffic with their durable heat-set fibers. For a versatile and classic option, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that seamlessly integrates with both modern and traditional decor. When selecting a rug, the choice of material significantly impacts both its look and feel. Shag and flokati rugs are ideal for creating a sumptuous, inviting atmosphere. Their long, soft fibers provide unparalleled comfort underfoot, enhancing the coziness of your living room or bedroom. Hand-loomed rugs deliver unique textures and artisanal craftsmanship, while braided and hand-hooked rugs bring a delightful, handcrafted charm. For ease of maintenance, machine washable rugs are highly practical. They allow for effortless cleaning and help maintain a pristine appearance with minimal effort. In addition to aesthetics, the functionality of your rug is paramount. Stain-resistant and water-resistant rugs are perfect for managing spills and everyday wear, ensuring your rug remains pristine over time. Non-slip and adhesive backings are crucial for safety, particularly on hardwood floors, preventing any risk of slipping and ensuring the rug stays securely in place. Furthermore, cushioned rugs enhance comfort, making your space not only stylish but also extraordinarily comfortable. Personalize your space with bespoke or custom rug options. An 8x10 area rug is ideal for covering substantial areas and can be customized to fit specific dimensions or design preferences. Custom features, such as elegant fringe details or organic textures, allow you to craft a rug that reflects your unique style and complements your existing decor. The selection of the top 15 area rugs available today encompasses a wide range of styles and features to meet diverse needs. From distressed designs that impart character to sleek contemporary patterns that offer a modern touch, there is a rug to suit every taste. Large rugs for living rooms and bedrooms can define and unify the space, while oversized carpets can create a dramatic focal point. Consider the practical aspects of each rug to ensure it not only enhances your decor but also withstands the rigors of daily use. Ultimately, selecting the ideal area rug involves a delicate balance between aesthetic appeal and functional utility. Whether you opt for a luxurious hand-tufted piece, a resilient machine-woven design, or a versatile flat-woven style, the right rug will elevate your living space into a stylish and comfortable haven. By exploring a variety of options and carefully considering both design and practicality, you can find the perfect rug to transform your room into a beautifully appointed retreat.

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

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.

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 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.

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.

Imagine stepping onto a stunning front porch graced with the timeless elegance of Melville Mega Steps. Each step is crafted with precision, showcasing a smooth, natural stone finish that exudes sophistication and durability. The generous width and substantial depth of these steps create a grand entrance, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. The subtle, earthy tones of the Melville Mega Steps harmonize beautifully with any architectural style, adding a touch of luxury and enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home. Accentuated by meticulously landscaped surroundings, these steps invite you to pause and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. Whether basking in the morning sunlight or illuminated by soft evening lights, the front porch with Melville Mega Steps becomes a welcoming haven, a perfect prelude to the comfort and charm that awaits inside.

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.

This standard "Builder's" kitchen was transformed into a contemporary gem. Storage was substantially increased, as was the countertop space.
Example of a mid-sized trendy l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen design in Raleigh with flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, granite countertops, blue backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and two islands

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.

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!

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 project began with a classic honey oak kitchen that was in dire need of an update. We removed a wall, completely changing the flow and sightlines of the space. This required substantial rewiring and a full refinish of the ceiling for consistency throughout the main floor. The new kitchen is a gorgeous transformation into a dramatic and warm contemporary room. The dark stained maple cabinets set the tone, and natural granite is a showstopper here with a double waterfall island and slab backsplash. These clients recently had us return to complete their main bathroom and ensuite!

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.

A closer perspective reveals the sturdy construction of this wooden gazebo, featuring substantial wooden posts that anchor a modern black metal roof. This structure is engineered to provide superior shade and protection, transforming an ordinary outdoor area into a refined leisure space. The thoughtful integration of natural materials with contemporary design elements ensures a sophisticated and durable addition.

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 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.

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!