Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Looking for a nice clean crown molding, but what something different? These homeowners did just that with a simple clean flat molding applied to the wall and ceiling to create this look.

Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Summary of Scope: gut renovation/reconfiguration of kitchen, coffee bar, mudroom, powder room, 2 kids baths, guest bath, master bath and dressing room, kids study and playroom, study/office, laundry room, restoration of windows, adding wallpapers and window treatments Background/description: The house was built in 1908, my clients are only the 3rd owners of the house. The prior owner lived there from 1940s until she died at age of 98! The old home had loads of character and charm but was in pretty bad condition and desperately needed updates. The clients purchased the home a few years ago and did some work before they moved in (roof, HVAC, electrical) but decided to live in the house for a 6 months or so before embarking on the next renovation phase. I had worked with the clients previously on the wife's office space and a few projects in a previous home including the nursery design for their first child so they reached out when they were ready to start thinking about the interior renovations. The goal was to respect and enhance the historic architecture of the home but make the spaces more functional for this couple with two small kids. Clients were open to color and some more bold/unexpected design choices. The design style is updated traditional with some eclectic elements. An early design decision was to incorporate a dark colored french range which would be the focal point of the kitchen and to do dark high gloss lacquered cabinets in the adjacent coffee bar, and we ultimately went with dark green.

Latch hardware in upper cabinets.
Inspiration for a mid-sized craftsman u-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen remodel in San Francisco with a single-bowl sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, green backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding Replacement — Littleton, Colorado Project Summary: Complete exterior transformation using James Hardie HardiePlank fiber cement siding in Light Mist with coordinating Arctic White trim. Installation completed to Elite Preferred Contractor specifications, qualifying for full 30-year James Hardie product warranty and 15-year ColorPlus finish warranty. Materials Installed: • James Hardie HardiePlank lap siding — Light Mist ColorPlus finish • James Hardie trim and fascia — Arctic White • Complete soffit integration with proper ventilation • All flashing and water management details engineered to specification Design & Aesthetic: The Light Mist finish delivers a modern, sophisticated palette that complements Littleton's residential character. Arctic White trim creates crisp architectural definition and visual separation between walls and roof lines. The clean horizontal profile of HardiePlank lap siding provides classic curb appeal with contemporary minimalism. Why Fiber Cement for Littleton Homes: Littleton experiences Colorado's signature freeze-thaw climate — repeated daily temperature swings that challenge standard siding materials. James Hardie HZ5 formulation is engineered specifically for Colorado's elevation and weather extremes. The fiber cement composite is dimensionally stable through thousands of freeze-thaw cycles, resists moisture absorption and rot, and meets fire-resistant requirements for increasing home value and insurance considerations. ColorPlus Technology: The factory-applied ColorPlus finish is kiln-baked and UV-stabilized at the manufacturing facility — not field-painted. It resists fading, peeling, and chalking through 15+ years of Colorado's intense sun exposure. The warranty is realistic for Littleton's altitude and climate, not national averages. Installation Quality: This project was installed by 5280 Exteriors, a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor. Elite Preferred status requires verified installation quality, ongoing manufacturer training, and demonstrated track record. Only Elite Preferred Contractors can issue the full 30-year product warranty and 15-year ColorPlus warranty. Standard installation does not qualify. Performance Advantages: • Zero maintenance required — no annual painting, staining, or sealing • Non-combustible material — meets fire-resistant standards • Engineered for Colorado's freeze-thaw climate zones • 30-year product warranty (Elite Preferred installation) • 15-year ColorPlus finish warranty • Increases resale value in competitive Littleton market • Improves energy efficiency through proper wall air sealing Before & After Transformation: The before condition shows aging, weathered siding. The after transformation reveals a modern exterior with clean lines, architectural definition, and premium material quality. The Light Mist and Arctic White palette creates a cohesive, intentional aesthetic that enhances the home's curb appeal and overall property value. About This Project: Location: Littleton, Colorado (South Denver Metro) Scope: Full siding replacement Materials: James Hardie HardiePlank fiber cement Colors: Light Mist (walls) + Arctic White (trim) Installation: Elite Preferred Contractor specification Warranty: 30-year product + 15-year finish Contractor: 5280 Exteriors 5280 Exteriors is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor serving Littleton, Denver metro, South Denver, and Colorado's Front Range. We specialize in premium exterior remodeling including fiber cement siding, energy-efficient windows, roofing systems, and composite decking. Our team has 20+ years of experience with Colorado's high-altitude and challenging climate conditions.

Benjamin Benschneider
Example of an urban open staircase design in Seattle

Inspiration for a coastal bathroom remodel in Los Angeles

FULL HOUSE REMODEL – COMPLETE SCOPE OF WORK 1. Pre-Construction Phase • Initial site inspection and measurements • Architectural design and layout planning (if required) • Structural engineering (if load-bearing walls are modified) • Preparation of plans for city approval • Permit application and plan check • Obtain required building permits • Scheduling of inspections • Homeowner responsible for permit fees unless otherwise stated. 2. Site Preparation & Protection • Protect flooring and non-work areas • Install plastic dust barriers with zipper access • Cover windows and furniture as needed • Temporary utility setup if required • Daily job site cleanup • Final professional cleaning upon completion 3. Demolition • Remove existing flooring (tile, wood, carpet, etc.) • Remove cabinets, countertops, vanities • Remove interior walls per plans • Remove drywall where required • Remove plumbing fixtures • Remove electrical fixtures • Haul away all debris 4. Structural & Framing • Install structural beams if required • Reframe modified walls • Install new partitions per approved plans • Repair or replace damaged framing • Subfloor repair or replacement as needed • Install blocking for cabinets and accessories 5. Plumbing (Up to Code) • Replace old water supply lines (Copper Type L or PEX) • Replace or modify drain lines (ABS) • Relocate plumbing fixtures as needed • Install new shut-off valves and cleanouts • Water heater replacement if included • Call for rough and final plumbing inspections 6. Electrical (Up to Code) • Upgrade electrical panel if required • Rewire entire house as needed • Install new outlets and switches • Install GFCI/AFCI protection per code • Install recessed lighting and fixtures • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors • Dedicated circuits for appliances • Call for rough and final electrical inspections 7. HVAC • Replace or upgrade HVAC system if included • Install new ducting and registers • Install thermostat or mini-split system if applicable 8. Insulation • Install wall insulation per code requirements • Install ceiling insulation per code requirements 9. Drywall & Plaster • Install new drywall • Tape and mud (Level 4 or 5 finish) • Texture to match existing or smooth finish • Patch all affected areas 10. Flooring • Install tile flooring • Install engineered wood / hardwood / laminate / vinyl • Install baseboards • Floor leveling if required 11. Kitchen Remodel • Install new cabinets • Install countertops • Install backsplash • Install sink and faucet • Install appliances (owner supplied unless specified) 12. Bathroom Remodel(s) • Install new tub or shower system • Waterproofing system installation • Install tile on floors and walls • Install vanity and toilet • Install shower valve and fixtures • Install shower glass if included 13. Doors & Windows • Replace interior and entry doors • Replace windows if included • Install hardware 14. Interior & Exterior Paint • Surface preparation • Prime and paint walls, ceilings, and trim • Exterior painting if included 15. Exterior Work (If Included) • Stucco repair • Roofing repair or replacement • Concrete work or pavers • Drainage improvements 16. Final Phase • Final inspections • Punch list completion • Final cleaning • Final walk-through with homeowner Standard California Contract Terms (Summary) • All work performed in compliance with California Building Code. • Change orders must be approved in writing. • Unforeseen conditions may require additional cost. • One-year labor warranty unless otherwise stated. • Progress payments per agreed payment schedule. • Contractor is licensed and insured.

FULL HOUSE REMODEL – COMPLETE SCOPE OF WORK 1. Pre-Construction Phase • Initial site inspection and measurements • Architectural design and layout planning (if required) • Structural engineering (if load-bearing walls are modified) • Preparation of plans for city approval • Permit application and plan check • Obtain required building permits • Scheduling of inspections • Homeowner responsible for permit fees unless otherwise stated. 2. Site Preparation & Protection • Protect flooring and non-work areas • Install plastic dust barriers with zipper access • Cover windows and furniture as needed • Temporary utility setup if required • Daily job site cleanup • Final professional cleaning upon completion 3. Demolition • Remove existing flooring (tile, wood, carpet, etc.) • Remove cabinets, countertops, vanities • Remove interior walls per plans • Remove drywall where required • Remove plumbing fixtures • Remove electrical fixtures • Haul away all debris 4. Structural & Framing • Install structural beams if required • Reframe modified walls • Install new partitions per approved plans • Repair or replace damaged framing • Subfloor repair or replacement as needed • Install blocking for cabinets and accessories 5. Plumbing (Up to Code) • Replace old water supply lines (Copper Type L or PEX) • Replace or modify drain lines (ABS) • Relocate plumbing fixtures as needed • Install new shut-off valves and cleanouts • Water heater replacement if included • Call for rough and final plumbing inspections 6. Electrical (Up to Code) • Upgrade electrical panel if required • Rewire entire house as needed • Install new outlets and switches • Install GFCI/AFCI protection per code • Install recessed lighting and fixtures • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors • Dedicated circuits for appliances • Call for rough and final electrical inspections 7. HVAC • Replace or upgrade HVAC system if included • Install new ducting and registers • Install thermostat or mini-split system if applicable 8. Insulation • Install wall insulation per code requirements • Install ceiling insulation per code requirements 9. Drywall & Plaster • Install new drywall • Tape and mud (Level 4 or 5 finish) • Texture to match existing or smooth finish • Patch all affected areas 10. Flooring • Install tile flooring • Install engineered wood / hardwood / laminate / vinyl • Install baseboards • Floor leveling if required 11. Kitchen Remodel • Install new cabinets • Install countertops • Install backsplash • Install sink and faucet • Install appliances (owner supplied unless specified) 12. Bathroom Remodel(s) • Install new tub or shower system • Waterproofing system installation • Install tile on floors and walls • Install vanity and toilet • Install shower valve and fixtures • Install shower glass if included 13. Doors & Windows • Replace interior and entry doors • Replace windows if included • Install hardware 14. Interior & Exterior Paint • Surface preparation • Prime and paint walls, ceilings, and trim • Exterior painting if included 15. Exterior Work (If Included) • Stucco repair • Roofing repair or replacement • Concrete work or pavers • Drainage improvements 16. Final Phase • Final inspections • Punch list completion • Final cleaning • Final walk-through with homeowner Standard California Contract Terms (Summary) • All work performed in compliance with California Building Code. • Change orders must be approved in writing. • Unforeseen conditions may require additional cost. • One-year labor warranty unless otherwise stated. • Progress payments per agreed payment schedule. • Contractor is licensed and insured.

Great spacious bathroom with lot of amenities. Photographer: Jon Upson
Large elegant master beige tile and porcelain tile drop-in bathtub photo in San Diego with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige walls and a two-piece toilet

Improve your living room or bedroom begins with the perfect area rug—an essential element that enhances both style and functionality. A well-chosen rug not only anchors the room but also adds warmth, texture, and a touch of personality to your space. Whether you’re decorating a cozy bedroom or a spacious living room, selecting the right rug is crucial to achieving a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. Design and Style: The design of your area rug can dramatically influence the overall look of your space. For a luxurious touch, consider hand-tufted or hand-knotted rugs, which offer intricate patterns and rich textures. These rugs are often crafted with attention to detail, making them ideal for adding an elegant statement to any room. If you prefer a more modern approach, machine-woven rugs are a great choice. They come in a variety of vibrant patterns and colors and are built to withstand heavy foot traffic thanks to their heat-set fibers. For a versatile option, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, provide a reversible design that fits seamlessly into both contemporary and traditional decor. Materials and Comfort: When selecting a rug, the material plays a significant role in both its appearance and comfort. Shag and flokati rugs are perfect for creating a plush, cozy environment. Their long, soft fibers add a layer of comfort underfoot, making your living room or bedroom feel more inviting. Hand-loomed rugs offer unique textures and artisanal quality, while braided and hand-hooked rugs add a charming, handcrafted touch. For practical maintenance, machine washable rugs are a smart choice. They allow for easy cleaning and help maintain a fresh look with minimal effort. Functionality and Practical Features: Beyond aesthetics, consider the functionality of your rug. Stain-resistant and water-resistant rugs are ideal for managing spills and stains, ensuring that your rug remains in good condition over time. Non-slip and adhesive backings are essential for safety, particularly on hardwood floors. These features prevent the rug from shifting and reduce the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, cushioned rugs enhance comfort, making your space not only stylish but also more enjoyable to relax in. Customization and Personalization: Add a unique touch to your space with custom or personalized rug options. An 8x10 area rug is a popular choice for covering large areas and can be tailored to fit specific dimensions or design preferences. Personalized features, such as fringe details or organic textures, allow you to create a rug that reflects your individual style and complements your existing decor. Versatility and Maintenance: The top 15 area rugs available today offer a diverse range of styles and features to suit various needs. From distressed designs that add character to contemporary patterns that offer a modern edge, there is a rug to match every aesthetic. Large rugs for living rooms and bedrooms can help define the space and create a cohesive look, while huge carpets can make a bold statement. Consider the practicality of each rug, ensuring that it not only enhances your decor but also withstands everyday use. In Summary: Selecting the ideal area rug involves finding a balance between style and practicality. Whether you opt for a luxurious hand-tufted design, a durable machine-woven option, or a versatile flat-woven style, the right rug will elevate your living room, bedroom, or any other space. By exploring various options and considering both design and functionality, you can find the perfect rug that transforms your space into a stylish, comfortable haven.

Inspiration for a transitional home design remodel in Minneapolis

Mannington Adura LVT Napa, color Tanin
Elegant vinyl floor bedroom photo

Minimalist dark wood floor kitchen photo in San Francisco