Gut renovation of 1880's townhouse. New vertical circulation and dramatic rooftop skylight bring light deep in to the middle of the house. A new stair to roof and roof deck complete the light-filled vertical volume. Programmatically, the house was flipped: private spaces and bedrooms are on lower floors, and the open plan Living Room, Dining Room, and Kitchen is located on the 3rd floor to take advantage of the high ceiling and beautiful views. A new oversized front window on 3rd floor provides stunning views across New York Harbor to Lower Manhattan. The renovation also included many sustainable and resilient features, such as the mechanical systems were moved to the roof, radiant floor heating, triple glazed windows, reclaimed timber framing, and lots of daylighting. All photos: Lesley Unruh http://www.unruhphoto.com/

WATCH the time lapse video of this kitchen remodel: https://youtu.be/caemXXlauLU   Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This Glen Ellyn homeowner came to us, frustrated with the layout and size of their current kitchen, looking for help generating ideas for how to maximize functionality within the constraints of the space. After visiting with them and seeing the home’s layout, I realized that looking at the bigger picture of how they used the entire first floor might bring us some dramatic solutions. We ended up flipping the kitchen and family room and taking down the wall separating the two creating one big open floor plan for the family to enjoy. There is still a visual separation between the rooms because of their different lengths and the overall space now relates nicely to the dining room which was also opened up to both rooms. The new kitchen is an L-shaped space that is no longer cramped and small and is truly a cook’s dream. The fridge is on one end, a large cooktop and sink are located along the main perimeter and double ovens located at the end of the “L” complete the layout. Ample work surface along the perimeter and on the large island makes entertaining a breeze. An existing door to the patio remains, floods the room with light and provides easy access to the existing outdoor deck for entertaining and grilling. White cabinetry with quartz countertops, Carrera marble backsplash tile and a contrasting gray island give the space a clean and modern feel. The gray pendant lights and stainless appliances bring a slight industrial feel to the space letting you know that some serious cooking will take place here. Once we had their Dream Kitchen design completed, the homeowners decided to tackle another project at the same time. We made plans to create a master suite upstairs by combining two existing bedrooms into a larger bedroom, bathroom and walk-in closet. The existing spaces were not overly large so getting everything on the wish list into the design was a challenge. In the end, we came up with a design that works. The two bedrooms were adjoined, one wall moved back slightly to make for a slightly larger bedroom, and the remaining space was allotted to the new bathroom and a walk in closet. The bathroom consists of a double vanity and a large shower with a barn door shower door. A skylight brings light into the space and helps make it feel larger and more open. The new walk-in closet is accessible through the bathroom, and we even managed to fit in a small entry vestibule that houses some additional storage and makes a nice transition from the hallway. A white vanity, Carrera tops and gray floor tile make for a serene space that feels just right for this home. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Gibeon Photography

Our standard configuration, this vertical system is more like a traditional bed and allows the user to have access to both sides of the unit. • Lago® Roman Walnut finish creates a warm, rich look. • Lago® Roman Walnut slab door and drawer fronts lend a modern aesthetic. • Aluminum frame doors with glass inserts offer viewable storage areas. • Multipurpose space serves two or more functions with a wall bed that provides a sleeping area when needed. • Black speaker fabric door inserts accommodate an entertainment system. • TV component storage provides a designated place for technology. • Flip-up doors offer ease of use and optimize available space.

Donna Dotan Photography Inc.
Inspiration for a large contemporary built-in desk light wood floor study room remodel in New York with brown walls

The focal point of the space is both the free standing club foot tub and the shower. The client had the tub custom painted. I designed the shower to accommodate two people with his and her sides. The linen tower was removed to free up space for the new water closet and shower. Each vanity was created to maximize space, so drawers were included in the middle portion of the cabinet. There is porcelain tile from floor to ceiling in the entire space for easy maintenance. Chrome was used as accents throughout the space as seen in the sinks, faucets and other fixtures. A wall of tile in the shower acts a focal point on the opposite end of the room. Photographer: Brio Yiapon

In the railing industry, there are many kinds of infill systems. Viewrail is thrilled to introduce a few new infill systems to the market. One of those new systems incorporates stainless steel rods. Like cable railing, rods run horizontally. Though they are thicker than cable, rods are also still able to provide a clean and clear view. Our rods are 3/8″, and give incredible strength to any system. In addition to strength, rods have a contemporary feel that pair well with modern designs. This project uses our rods with a hard maple mission-style handrail to provide ample contrast and visual interest. Furthermore, we were able to design a custom starting post for the customer to keep the bottom rods from touching the tops of the treads. Finally, we provided the customer with split foot covers that could slide around the base of the posts. Here at Viewrail, we equipped and excited to help with customizations that help you achieve your dream design. Our stainless steel rods will be available for purchase on the website soon. However, if you are interested in a stainless steel rod system, you may fill out this simple contact form to get an order started. We look forward to working with you!

Bona stains, finishes and sealers provide the ultimate in durability, protection and beauty in your home. Whether your floor is extremely worn and in need of a recoat or you want to change the color and design, the Bona System will highlight the true beauty and elegance of the wood. Bona waterborne finishes have always been VOC-compliant and healthier for people and the environment than most other finishes; GREENGUARD Certified for Indoor Air Quality. Contact a Bona Certified Craftsman to start your floor renovation.

The first glimpse of Innovation House as you enter the grand circular drive does not disappoint. The home’s European style starts at the property line with stone pavers and a large bronze finished mailbox by Frontgate. The exterior of Innovation House is striking: each of the front rooms’ tall ceilings adds interest to the roof line. Stone facing and window trim painted to coordinate with the stone’s warm hues adds depth and interest. What you don’t notice right from the start is the energy savings provided by Innovation House’s efficient and cleverly hidden mechanical systems like the 21 seer, solar-ready HVAC units behind the house and recycled rubber landscape mulch. Even though Innovation House’s 11,000 square foot interior is magnificent, the graceful front archway and stained French entry doors create a welcome that beckons. Sources: mailbox by Frontgate; composite concrete slate roofing; landscape lighting by Kichler; landscaping by Sugar Hill Outdoors; pavers by Belgard; HVAC by Service Experts and Lenox; spray foam insulation by Southern Foam and Coating; recycled rubber mulch by Mulch One; paint by Certa Pro. Photo Credit: GreinTime Productions

Photovoltaic system provides electricity to the homeowner.
Example of a large one-story exterior home design in Orlando

Oakley Home Builders is a custom home builder and remodeling company in the Chicago suburbs that has integrated distinctive home designs into surrounding communities, neighborhoods and coveted residential landscapes. Positioned as a flourishing Chicago western suburbs home builder, Oakley Home Builders demonstrates a passionate pursuit of detail-rich, value-driven design and efficient construction that provides homebuyers with a masterfully planned and executed living environment. Whether building on your site or one of our many available lots, Oakley Home Builders is recognized among Chicago western suburbs home builders for its excellent build-to-suit program. Guiding homebuyers through a simple, step-by-step process, we enhance the building experience by providing practical advice, flexible accommodations, and educational insight. But while we are mainly a home builder in Chicago suburbs, we also build luxurious beach homes in Naples, FL and along the shores of Lake Michigan in Indiana and Michigan's Harbor Country. In addition we serve as an expert suburban Chicago remodeling company catering to the communities of Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, LaGrange, Western Springs, Elmhurst, and other west suburban locations.

Scott Annandale Photography Stuart Riley Bespoke Builder Frahm Interiors
Large trendy light wood floor and beige floor family room photo in Toronto with white walls, a ribbon fireplace and a tile fireplace

Cable railings provide a modern look for this remodeled porch. Ipe hardwood timber combined with charcoal powder coated posts and stainless steel cables.

There are two separate identical mirror-imaged vanity areas with full-size mirrors and ample lighting. Mirrored sliding doors provide access to highly functional ELFA shelving storage system. Drawers provide convenient storage in both vanity areas.

Melissa Plantz
Example of a small minimalist women's walk-in closet design in Denver with flat-panel cabinets and dark wood cabinets

Existing space that the homeowners wanted to go up to provide room for a full bathroom
Inspiration for a small timeless kids' mosaic tile floor, white floor and single-sink alcove shower remodel in Bridgeport with white cabinets, green walls, an integrated sink, granite countertops and a freestanding vanity

This contemporary farmhouse is located on a scenic acreage in Greendale, BC. It features an open floor plan with room for hosting a large crowd, a large kitchen with double wall ovens, tons of counter space, a custom range hood and was designed to maximize natural light. Shed dormers with windows up high flood the living areas with daylight. The stairwells feature more windows to give them an open, airy feel, and custom black iron railings designed and crafted by a talented local blacksmith. The home is very energy efficient, featuring R32 ICF construction throughout, R60 spray foam in the roof, window coatings that minimize solar heat gain, an HRV system to ensure good air quality, and LED lighting throughout. A large covered patio with a wood burning fireplace provides warmth and shelter in the shoulder seasons. Carsten Arnold Photography

Use of Solid Green Systems roof and wall panel system provide superior insulation for heating, cooling and sound creating a very comfortable living environment.

This contemporary farmhouse is located on a scenic acreage in Greendale, BC. It features an open floor plan with room for hosting a large crowd, a large kitchen with double wall ovens, tons of counter space, a custom range hood and was designed to maximize natural light. Shed dormers with windows up high flood the living areas with daylight. The stairwells feature more windows to give them an open, airy feel, and custom black iron railings designed and crafted by a talented local blacksmith. The home is very energy efficient, featuring R32 ICF construction throughout, R60 spray foam in the roof, window coatings that minimize solar heat gain, an HRV system to ensure good air quality, and LED lighting throughout. A large covered patio with a wood burning fireplace provides warmth and shelter in the shoulder seasons. Carsten Arnold Photography