Search results for "Support mechanisms" in Home Design Ideas

Zoom-Room, the remote controlled Murphy Bed, has introduced the Royal Line of cabinets, available in a wide variety of wood veneers (oak, maple, rustic cherry, mahogany, etc.) and finishes. And there's a bed in there!

This 2022 project for Sovereign Grace Music was a full-scale, purpose-built recording and production facility designed to support songwriting, live tracking, mixing, and video content creation. Working alongside the extraordinary Sovereign Grace team—and in collaboration with Authentic Carpentry—NILES handled sound reduction, audio integration, and all acoustic treatment design and installation.
The facility features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, and a large Isolation Booth engineered for dry drum capture or vocal tracking during full-band sessions. Each space was crafted for accuracy, clarity, and intuitive workflow, ensuring that engineers and artists can move seamlessly between rooms without breaking creative momentum.
Clear sightlines, generous lighting, and intentional layout choices make the studio equally suited for recording and video production. Every room is wired for a plug-and-play workflow, supporting multi-camera shoots, ensemble tracking, and efficient session flow.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic infrastructure is highly robust. The Control Room, Live Room, and ISO Booth sit on independent floor systems with tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies and strategic treatments throughout. No suite is mechanically bonded, allowing simultaneous use of all rooms with minimal sound transmission.
Monitoring in the Control Room centers around PMC 6-2 loudspeakers, precisely tuned to ensure accurate translation from mix position to the final master.
The result is a balanced, inviting, and technically exact environment—built to serve the diverse creative needs of Sovereign Grace Music for years to come.

This 1,000ft² recording and production studio, built in 2021 for producer couple Latifah Alattas and Lucas Morton, was designed as a fully custom creative environment that supports writing, mixing, and collaboration at the highest level. Both Latifah and Lucas are multi-instrumentalists, engineers, and mixers, and the studio reflects the full range of their workflows—visually inspiring, technically precise, and intuitive in every room.
The facility was built from the ground up with a strong emphasis on architectural acoustics and plug-and-play connectivity. The layout includes two Control Rooms, multiple isolation booths, and shared common spaces, all tied together with seamless audio integration. No matter where you are in the studio, routing, monitoring, and communication remain effortless and consistent.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic design is exceptionally robust. Six independent floating-floor systems support the suites, ensuring each room operates with minimal sound transmission. Tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies, full-lite doors, engineered window systems, and intentional treatment plans deliver clarity, isolation, and precision for tracking and mixing. Each space is mechanically decoupled, allowing multiple rooms to run simultaneously without compromise.
For monitoring, both Latifah and Lucas chose Genelec “The Ones” series monitors with GLM calibration to ensure accurate translation and consistency across the entire facility.
Natural light and a warm, welcoming aesthetic anchor the visual identity of the studio, reflecting the creative energy and personality of its owners. The result is a highly functional, beautifully crafted space where ideas can move freely and production can happen without limitations.
Find the right local pro for your project

This 2022 project for Sovereign Grace Music was a full-scale, purpose-built recording and production facility designed to support songwriting, live tracking, mixing, and video content creation. Working alongside the extraordinary Sovereign Grace team—and in collaboration with Authentic Carpentry—NILES handled sound reduction, audio integration, and all acoustic treatment design and installation.
The facility features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, and a large Isolation Booth engineered for dry drum capture or vocal tracking during full-band sessions. Each space was crafted for accuracy, clarity, and intuitive workflow, ensuring that engineers and artists can move seamlessly between rooms without breaking creative momentum.
Clear sightlines, generous lighting, and intentional layout choices make the studio equally suited for recording and video production. Every room is wired for a plug-and-play workflow, supporting multi-camera shoots, ensemble tracking, and efficient session flow.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic infrastructure is highly robust. The Control Room, Live Room, and ISO Booth sit on independent floor systems with tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies and strategic treatments throughout. No suite is mechanically bonded, allowing simultaneous use of all rooms with minimal sound transmission.
Monitoring in the Control Room centers around PMC 6-2 loudspeakers, precisely tuned to ensure accurate translation from mix position to the final master.
The result is a balanced, inviting, and technically exact environment—built to serve the diverse creative needs of Sovereign Grace Music for years to come.

This 1,000ft² recording and production studio, built in 2021 for producer couple Latifah Alattas and Lucas Morton, was designed as a fully custom creative environment that supports writing, mixing, and collaboration at the highest level. Both Latifah and Lucas are multi-instrumentalists, engineers, and mixers, and the studio reflects the full range of their workflows—visually inspiring, technically precise, and intuitive in every room.
The facility was built from the ground up with a strong emphasis on architectural acoustics and plug-and-play connectivity. The layout includes two Control Rooms, multiple isolation booths, and shared common spaces, all tied together with seamless audio integration. No matter where you are in the studio, routing, monitoring, and communication remain effortless and consistent.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic design is exceptionally robust. Six independent floating-floor systems support the suites, ensuring each room operates with minimal sound transmission. Tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies, full-lite doors, engineered window systems, and intentional treatment plans deliver clarity, isolation, and precision for tracking and mixing. Each space is mechanically decoupled, allowing multiple rooms to run simultaneously without compromise.
For monitoring, both Latifah and Lucas chose Genelec “The Ones” series monitors with GLM calibration to ensure accurate translation and consistency across the entire facility.
Natural light and a warm, welcoming aesthetic anchor the visual identity of the studio, reflecting the creative energy and personality of its owners. The result is a highly functional, beautifully crafted space where ideas can move freely and production can happen without limitations.

This 2022 project for Sovereign Grace Music was a full-scale, purpose-built recording and production facility designed to support songwriting, live tracking, mixing, and video content creation. Working alongside the extraordinary Sovereign Grace team—and in collaboration with Authentic Carpentry—NILES handled sound reduction, audio integration, and all acoustic treatment design and installation.
The facility features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, and a large Isolation Booth engineered for dry drum capture or vocal tracking during full-band sessions. Each space was crafted for accuracy, clarity, and intuitive workflow, ensuring that engineers and artists can move seamlessly between rooms without breaking creative momentum.
Clear sightlines, generous lighting, and intentional layout choices make the studio equally suited for recording and video production. Every room is wired for a plug-and-play workflow, supporting multi-camera shoots, ensemble tracking, and efficient session flow.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic infrastructure is highly robust. The Control Room, Live Room, and ISO Booth sit on independent floor systems with tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies and strategic treatments throughout. No suite is mechanically bonded, allowing simultaneous use of all rooms with minimal sound transmission.
Monitoring in the Control Room centers around PMC 6-2 loudspeakers, precisely tuned to ensure accurate translation from mix position to the final master.
The result is a balanced, inviting, and technically exact environment—built to serve the diverse creative needs of Sovereign Grace Music for years to come.

Project Spotlight: Stunning 700 Sq. Ft. Home Addition by BMR Belmax Remodeling
At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we recently completed an extensive 700 sq. ft. home addition project that redefined both style and functionality for our clients. This comprehensive project not only expanded the home but also upgraded its overall design and livability. From structural work to interior finishes, we handled every detail with precision and care.
Project Overview
Structural Upgrades and Expansion:
The project began with the removal of an old deck to make way for a new addition seamlessly integrated into the existing structure.
To achieve an open-concept design, we removed a section of the kitchen wall and installed a robust metal beam supported by two metal columns. This structural element ensured the second floor and roof were securely supported.
New Spaces Added:
Kitchen Remodeling:
Installed custom kitchen cabinets with stunning white quartz countertops for a clean, modern look.
Integrated a large peninsula, creating additional workspace and seating.
Added recessed lighting for a bright and functional cooking area, along with new high-end appliances.
Bathroom Addition:
Designed and built a new bathroom featuring a walk-in shower with glass doors, a double vanity, and elegant recessed lighting.
Installed new mirrors, a toilet, and high-quality fixtures to create a luxurious space.
Dining Room and Bedroom:
Built a spacious new dining room directly connected to the kitchen, ideal for entertaining and family gatherings.
Added a cozy new bedroom with modern lighting and finishes for a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Laundry Room Remodel:
Upgraded the laundry room to maximize efficiency with new plumbing, electrical systems, and updated finishes.
Exterior Upgrade:
Built a brand-new deck adjacent to the new addition, offering an outdoor space perfect for relaxation and entertaining.
Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Work:
Completed all necessary upgrades to ensure the new addition was seamlessly connected to the home’s existing systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Key Features and Design Highlights
Open-concept design achieved through structural engineering with a metal beam and column system.
High-end kitchen finishes, including quartz countertops, recessed lighting, and a large peninsula.
Luxurious bathroom design with modern amenities like a walk-in shower and double vanity.
A new deck addition that enhances outdoor living space.
Stylish and functional spaces tailored to the homeowners’ needs.
The Result
The 700 sq. ft. addition has transformed this home into a spacious, modern, and functional retreat. The open-concept kitchen and dining area create a welcoming space for gatherings, while the upgraded bedroom and bathroom offer comfort and style. The new deck perfectly complements the addition, providing a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
Ready to expand and enhance your home? Contact BMR Belmax Remodeling today to turn your vision into reality!

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

This 2022 project for Sovereign Grace Music was a full-scale, purpose-built recording and production facility designed to support songwriting, live tracking, mixing, and video content creation. Working alongside the extraordinary Sovereign Grace team—and in collaboration with Authentic Carpentry—NILES handled sound reduction, audio integration, and all acoustic treatment design and installation.
The facility features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, and a large Isolation Booth engineered for dry drum capture or vocal tracking during full-band sessions. Each space was crafted for accuracy, clarity, and intuitive workflow, ensuring that engineers and artists can move seamlessly between rooms without breaking creative momentum.
Clear sightlines, generous lighting, and intentional layout choices make the studio equally suited for recording and video production. Every room is wired for a plug-and-play workflow, supporting multi-camera shoots, ensemble tracking, and efficient session flow.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic infrastructure is highly robust. The Control Room, Live Room, and ISO Booth sit on independent floor systems with tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies and strategic treatments throughout. No suite is mechanically bonded, allowing simultaneous use of all rooms with minimal sound transmission.
Monitoring in the Control Room centers around PMC 6-2 loudspeakers, precisely tuned to ensure accurate translation from mix position to the final master.
The result is a balanced, inviting, and technically exact environment—built to serve the diverse creative needs of Sovereign Grace Music for years to come.

This 2022 project for Sovereign Grace Music was a full-scale, purpose-built recording and production facility designed to support songwriting, live tracking, mixing, and video content creation. Working alongside the extraordinary Sovereign Grace team—and in collaboration with Authentic Carpentry—NILES handled sound reduction, audio integration, and all acoustic treatment design and installation.
The facility features a full Control Room, a spacious Live Room, and a large Isolation Booth engineered for dry drum capture or vocal tracking during full-band sessions. Each space was crafted for accuracy, clarity, and intuitive workflow, ensuring that engineers and artists can move seamlessly between rooms without breaking creative momentum.
Clear sightlines, generous lighting, and intentional layout choices make the studio equally suited for recording and video production. Every room is wired for a plug-and-play workflow, supporting multi-camera shoots, ensemble tracking, and efficient session flow.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic infrastructure is highly robust. The Control Room, Live Room, and ISO Booth sit on independent floor systems with tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies and strategic treatments throughout. No suite is mechanically bonded, allowing simultaneous use of all rooms with minimal sound transmission.
Monitoring in the Control Room centers around PMC 6-2 loudspeakers, precisely tuned to ensure accurate translation from mix position to the final master.
The result is a balanced, inviting, and technically exact environment—built to serve the diverse creative needs of Sovereign Grace Music for years to come.

Project Spotlight: Stunning 700 Sq. Ft. Home Addition by BMR Belmax Remodeling
At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we recently completed an extensive 700 sq. ft. home addition project that redefined both style and functionality for our clients. This comprehensive project not only expanded the home but also upgraded its overall design and livability. From structural work to interior finishes, we handled every detail with precision and care.
Project Overview
Structural Upgrades and Expansion:
The project began with the removal of an old deck to make way for a new addition seamlessly integrated into the existing structure.
To achieve an open-concept design, we removed a section of the kitchen wall and installed a robust metal beam supported by two metal columns. This structural element ensured the second floor and roof were securely supported.
New Spaces Added:
Kitchen Remodeling:
Installed custom kitchen cabinets with stunning white quartz countertops for a clean, modern look.
Integrated a large peninsula, creating additional workspace and seating.
Added recessed lighting for a bright and functional cooking area, along with new high-end appliances.
Bathroom Addition:
Designed and built a new bathroom featuring a walk-in shower with glass doors, a double vanity, and elegant recessed lighting.
Installed new mirrors, a toilet, and high-quality fixtures to create a luxurious space.
Dining Room and Bedroom:
Built a spacious new dining room directly connected to the kitchen, ideal for entertaining and family gatherings.
Added a cozy new bedroom with modern lighting and finishes for a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Laundry Room Remodel:
Upgraded the laundry room to maximize efficiency with new plumbing, electrical systems, and updated finishes.
Exterior Upgrade:
Built a brand-new deck adjacent to the new addition, offering an outdoor space perfect for relaxation and entertaining.
Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Work:
Completed all necessary upgrades to ensure the new addition was seamlessly connected to the home’s existing systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Key Features and Design Highlights
Open-concept design achieved through structural engineering with a metal beam and column system.
High-end kitchen finishes, including quartz countertops, recessed lighting, and a large peninsula.
Luxurious bathroom design with modern amenities like a walk-in shower and double vanity.
A new deck addition that enhances outdoor living space.
Stylish and functional spaces tailored to the homeowners’ needs.
The Result
The 700 sq. ft. addition has transformed this home into a spacious, modern, and functional retreat. The open-concept kitchen and dining area create a welcoming space for gatherings, while the upgraded bedroom and bathroom offer comfort and style. The new deck perfectly complements the addition, providing a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
Ready to expand and enhance your home? Contact BMR Belmax Remodeling today to turn your vision into reality!

This 1,000ft² recording and production studio, built in 2021 for producer couple Latifah Alattas and Lucas Morton, was designed as a fully custom creative environment that supports writing, mixing, and collaboration at the highest level. Both Latifah and Lucas are multi-instrumentalists, engineers, and mixers, and the studio reflects the full range of their workflows—visually inspiring, technically precise, and intuitive in every room.
The facility was built from the ground up with a strong emphasis on architectural acoustics and plug-and-play connectivity. The layout includes two Control Rooms, multiple isolation booths, and shared common spaces, all tied together with seamless audio integration. No matter where you are in the studio, routing, monitoring, and communication remain effortless and consistent.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic design is exceptionally robust. Six independent floating-floor systems support the suites, ensuring each room operates with minimal sound transmission. Tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies, full-lite doors, engineered window systems, and intentional treatment plans deliver clarity, isolation, and precision for tracking and mixing. Each space is mechanically decoupled, allowing multiple rooms to run simultaneously without compromise.
For monitoring, both Latifah and Lucas chose Genelec “The Ones” series monitors with GLM calibration to ensure accurate translation and consistency across the entire facility.
Natural light and a warm, welcoming aesthetic anchor the visual identity of the studio, reflecting the creative energy and personality of its owners. The result is a highly functional, beautifully crafted space where ideas can move freely and production can happen without limitations.

Italian Sofa Bed Fellini by Seduta D'Arte
Made in Italy
Fellini by Seduta d'Arte is a modular italian sleeper sofa that offers lots of customization options. The sofa features simple but elegant design that fits both modern or contemporary styled interiors. Moreover, Fellini is a sofa bed that provides comfortable sleeping place for two that can be either joined or separated for individual sleeping. The separate bed of the Fellini sofa comes from underneath and has 5" high memory foam mattress and orthopedic wooden slats mattress support. The sleeper sofa is available with three arms versions to choose from. Moreover, the sofa bed can be ordered in one of the designs: Fashion, Young or Dormeuse, so you could choose the style that better fit your interior. "Fashion" version has back in stress resistant polyurethane foam, while "Young" and "Dormouse" have foam-feather padding. The Fellini sofa is available in Fabric or Nubuck Fabric of different colors.
Please contact our office to get necessary help with customization of this sofa bed.
Features:
Lots of different upholstery materials and colors
Wooden frame with an elasticized webbing suspension
Foam-feather padding for "Young" and "Dormouse" versions
Double density foam padding for "Fashion" design
Sleeper mechanism with 5" high mattress and wooden slats support platform
Three versions of arms to choose from
The starting price is for the Sofa Bed Fellini with "Elite" Arms and "Fashion" design version upholstered in Fabric.
Dimensions:
Sofa Sleeper Elite: W84.3" x D37.4" x H36.6"(Fashion) / 28.3"(Young) / 28.3"/35.4"(Dormeuse)
Sofa Sleeper Prestige: W85.8" x D37.4" x H36.6"(Fashion) / 28.3"(Young) / 28.3"/35.4"(Dormeuse)
Sofa Sleeper Dormeuse: W84.3" x D37.4" x H36.6"(Fashion) / 28.3"(Young) / 28.3"/35.4"(Dormeuse)
Sofa-Bed Sleeping Size: W31.5"+31.5" x D76.8"/74.8" x H18.5"

The Taylor double bed is characterized by a headboard divided into two upholstered elements, enriched by visible stitching, that becomes a comfortable back support for readers. The bed is completely covered and the covers are easily removable. The included wooden slats lie under the mattress and rest on horizontal supports, guaranteeing the best comfort while sleeping.
The Taylor offers a pleasant daily comfort with elegant style and will add a touch of nonchalance to your bedroom.
The Boston is a 2 drawer nightstand featuring a linear and modern design. Drawers have no handles, they open thanks to a practical “push-pull” system with assisted closing mechanism. Feet can be chosen between wooden or metal type.

The Fisher-Bliss House is a unique historic home overlooking Edgartown harbor. Working with Historic New England, the project was designed by Patrick Ahearn, Architects Inc. The project combined extensive renovation with careful historic preservation and restoration of original detail.
The skillfully designed and integrated architectural plan supports new bathrooms, a state of the art kitchen, updated mechanical systems, and new landscaping that blends seamlessly with the architecture and character of the area and homes of this period. TBI managed the project as the Owners' Representative.

This 1,000ft² recording and production studio, built in 2021 for producer couple Latifah Alattas and Lucas Morton, was designed as a fully custom creative environment that supports writing, mixing, and collaboration at the highest level. Both Latifah and Lucas are multi-instrumentalists, engineers, and mixers, and the studio reflects the full range of their workflows—visually inspiring, technically precise, and intuitive in every room.
The facility was built from the ground up with a strong emphasis on architectural acoustics and plug-and-play connectivity. The layout includes two Control Rooms, multiple isolation booths, and shared common spaces, all tied together with seamless audio integration. No matter where you are in the studio, routing, monitoring, and communication remain effortless and consistent.
Behind the aesthetic, the acoustic design is exceptionally robust. Six independent floating-floor systems support the suites, ensuring each room operates with minimal sound transmission. Tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies, full-lite doors, engineered window systems, and intentional treatment plans deliver clarity, isolation, and precision for tracking and mixing. Each space is mechanically decoupled, allowing multiple rooms to run simultaneously without compromise.
For monitoring, both Latifah and Lucas chose Genelec “The Ones” series monitors with GLM calibration to ensure accurate translation and consistency across the entire facility.
Natural light and a warm, welcoming aesthetic anchor the visual identity of the studio, reflecting the creative energy and personality of its owners. The result is a highly functional, beautifully crafted space where ideas can move freely and production can happen without limitations.

Roy Mizrahi Photography
Eat-in kitchen - small contemporary u-shaped porcelain tile eat-in kitchen idea in Tel Aviv with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, solid surface countertops, beige backsplash, glass sheet backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island
Eat-in kitchen - small contemporary u-shaped porcelain tile eat-in kitchen idea in Tel Aviv with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, solid surface countertops, beige backsplash, glass sheet backsplash, stainless steel appliances and no island

Awesome Norristown PA bi-level home remodel. We gutted the whole first level of this home down to the bare bones. We redesigned the space to an open floorplan. New structural framing, insulation, windows and doors, and all mechanicals were relocated and improved. Lighting! Lighting! Lighting! everywhere and it makes all the difference. Led lighting and smart switches were used for up lighting above cabinetry, task lighting under cabinetry, general room lighting, accent lighting under bar top, and all decorative fixtures as well. The kitchen was designed around a central island with elevated seating that is designed around the new structural columns required to open the whole area. Fabuwood cabinetry in Galaxy Horizon finish make up the perimeter cabinets accented by Galaxy Cobblestone finish used for the island cabinetry. Both cabinetry tones coordinate perfect with the new Luxury vinyl plank flooring in Uptown Chic Forever Friends. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, luxury vinyl is Awesome! It looks great its ultra durable and even water proof as well as less expensive than true hardwood. New stair treads, railings, and posts were installed stained to match by us; giving the steps new life. An accent wall of nickel gap boards was installed on the fireplace wall giving it some interest along with being a great clean look. The recessed niche behind the range, the dry stacked stone tile at the islands seating area, the new tile entry in a herringbone pattern just add to all the great details of this project. The New River White granite countertops are a show stopper as well; not only is it a beautiful stone the installation and seaming is excellent considering the pattern of the stone. I could go on forever we did so much. The clients were terrific and a pleasure to work with. I am glad we were able to be involved in making this dream come true.

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

This 1980s bathroom was originally a closet and galley shaped master bath for two. It was cramped, dark and nonfunctional for 2 people to dress in the morning. We demolished walls and fixtures to replace with a focal wall of Porcelanosa tile, laid on the vertical to mimic waves of high and low undulations. The vanity cabinets were custom made to float without base supports. Self closing glides and push open mechanisms make the cabinets highly functional. Electrical outlets are hardwired behind the drawers to conceal clutter.
Undermount rectangular sinks from Kohler. Backlight mirrors and under cabinets have an LED dimmer switch to use as a dim nightlight. Recessed can lights add to the natural southern window exposure. Countertops from Holland Marble.
Glenn Johnson Photography
Kenny Waters Remodeling
Porcelanosa tile

With the pending arrival of a beautiful baby girl, the homeowners of this 1928 Minneapolis Tudor wanted a basement that was conducive to a young child, but would still allow a place for family to gather and the occasional house guest. The original basement was typical; cold, lacking natural light with tiny, uncomfortably confined rooms and that “unique” basement smell. The goal was to reverse all of the ill effects of a rarely unappreciated space while increasing the performance of the older home.
The frigid temperatures and wet, mildew odor was remedied by demolishing the entire slab floor and excavating to gain an extra six inches in ceiling height. It also allowed us to insulate to R-15, moisture proof under the new slab, install a drain tile and sump pump. Within the concrete slab is a hydronic, in-floor radiant heating system which further helps to add comfort to the space. Lastly, we also sprayed a closed-cell, expanding urethane foam on the inside of the foundation walls all the way to the first floor.
To help bring more light down to the basement, we started by opening up the staircase on both sides. A curved wall bends light into the lower level while a countertop and cubbies below provide storage space for odds and ends. On the opposite wall, creatively placed cubbies provide places for paintings, ceramics and plants. We also removed the tiny 18” x 34” window on the south wall and installed a full-sized, high-efficiency, triple pane Pella egress window. To let lots of natural light into the window, we expanded the size of the cedar-lined egress well and included a built-in planter at the base to help bring life into an otherwise empty cavity.
Small, unspecified spaces that became storage areas now have purpose. The areas are defined, yet open. Upon descending down the stairs, one is greeted by a large living room with curved walls, custom design media center, built-in daybed and bookshelves. Use of paint was important in the design. Naturally in older homes basements are going to have exposed beams, soffits and a whole gambit of nooks and crannies. Instead of disguising them, we played them up, which created a layer effect with the color. The color also adds a touch of playfulness which anyone, regardless of age, can enjoy.
We scavenged the client’s garage and discovered that the previous homeowner kept the old, full-view glass front entry door in the garage. We re-installed the original glass knob and attached the door to sliding barn door hardware which was attached to the main structural beam of the lower level. On the other side of the door was the homeowners’ combined office and small fitness area. The office floor is a blend of thin strips of different colored cork. A built-in storage cabinet sits across from a site-built desk which forms to the curve of the dividing wall. A small, square hole in the curved wall provides a view to see who is coming down the stairs. Opposite of the office area and directly at the base of the stairs is a place for the homeowner’s treadmill.
Hidden is the mechanical room, which is home to many green and energy efficient products. The washing machine is a low-water consumption unit while the dryer requires less energy to operate than most standard units. Both sit atop a checkerboard pattern of different colored VCT tiles. We also replaced the aging boiler, which only heated the first and second level, with a 95% efficient heat source for the entire house—including the basement.
Behind the curved wall, the bathroom is conveniently located. A large, custom built no-formaldehyde added vanity supports the slab of remnant granite countertop. A piece of eco-resin wall panel, embedded with organic material, contains water in the shower and blends beautifully with the updated colors. Tucked under the stairs, we installed a dual-flush, low-water consumption toilet.
Through creative space planning, we packed a lot of into a rather small space. As a result, we have three very happy homeowners who are enjoying their light, clean and safe lower level of their home—however, they’ve been hard pressed to think of it as a “basement”.
highlights
Moisture management system
Insulated slab
Hydronic in-floor heat
Formaldehyde free cabinetry
MN-made custom cabinets
Ultra-low VOC paints
Wool carpet
Dual-flush toilet
Cork floor
No recessed lights
Cedar egress window well with planter
Re-used door
Eco-resin

Stripped of its original charm with sagging floors and water leaks, this 1900 row house was prime for a full renovation. While the staircase and marble fireplace are original, everything from the white oak flooring, crown, applied, and base moldings, to the archways and brass door hardware is new; yet they all feel original to the house. Other projects included removing soffits and tucking away randomly placed support beams and posts, relocating and expanding the kitchen, renovating each bathroom – and adding a new one, upgrading all the mechanical, electric and plumbing systems, removing a fireplace, and regrading the back patio for proper drainage and added greenery. The project is a perfect study of juxtaposing new and old, classic and modern.
Photography Stacy Zarin Goldberg
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