Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

Allison Cosmos
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless living room remodel in Philadelphia with a wood fireplace surround

Attention all you wonderful awesome talented designers!! Our showroom is yours! Bring your clients in to @FactoryTile to enjoy a full service #tile experience. Conduct your business without interference.

Hidden double Zoom beds in beautiful modern cabinet. Equipped with hanging space and drawers for guests that need to stay as little or as long as they please. Operated by a wireless remote, this unique design comes all the way from Germany. The best feature by far is that it doesn't interfere with your bookshelves or flat screen TV.

THE SETUP This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities. Design Objectives: Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment. Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests. Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks. Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities. Design Challenges: Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting. Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views. Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience. AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment. Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space. Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration. Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers. Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience). AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system. Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access. Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating. Final Thoughts: The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone. This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.

Custom Home Theater The creative minds behind Theater Monster put their heads together to develop an inspired and unique home theater for the residents of this particular home. They wanted to design a rustic theater that their client would be proud to show to guests, so it was a must to think outside the box. After conducting extensive research, Eldorado Stone was selected to meet their design needs and Autumn Leaf RoughCut was applied to the main walls. Additionally, they incorporated further visual appeal by constructing a modern, rolling tongue and groove ceiling to resemble a sound wave. Surprisingly, the use of architectural stone veneer in this space didn’t interfere with the quality of sound throughout the home theater. The rough edges of the stone helped to break up the sound waves emitted from the sound system and resulted in an even emission of sound in this space. Smooth walls typically cause refraction of sound unless heavily insulated, so the stone did double-duty by not only looking aesthetically appealing but also acting as natural insulation. Considering this was the first time the professionals at Theater Monster veered from more standard materials and utilized stone in a theater, they couldn’t have been happier with the end result. Architect/Designer: Nathan Goldstein www.theatermonster.com Builder: Theater Monster LLC Website: www.theatermonster.com Mason: Dustin Mathenia Phone: (559) 471-9140 Photography: Nathan Goldstein and Anthonie Mcgowan

When the decision was made to add onto this house, our designer was able to give this family additional space to enjoy each other’s company. The existing part of basement had lower ceilings, but our team was able to add additional height to the addition. This not only opened up the space but also provided ample room for innovative design ideas. Sometimes, the layout of a space becomes apparent through practical considerations. We carefully selected the position of the TV and ping-pong table based on the layout, ensuring that the window placement wouldn’t interfere with the blue stone patio above. This thoughtfully crafted layout optimizes the functionality and flow of the space. With the challenge of a long, narrow space, we discovered the perfect solution – a dedicated ping-pong area. It’s amazing how a game can bring the family together and add a fun and dynamic element to the lower level. To create a visually appealing atmosphere, we incorporated a range of design elements. The colored cement floor adds a touch of uniqueness and is not only stylish but also durable. Two different tones of grass cloth wallpaper enhance the textured look of the walls, while the pine tongue and groove ceiling, combined with exposed beams, infuse warmth into the space. The six hanging pendant light fixtures serve as functional and decorative elements, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. This lower level addition is a testament to our ability to adapt to the unique challenges of a project and create a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It’s a wonderful example of how creative solutions can transform even the most challenging spaces into areas of style and purpose. At Crystal Kitchen, we’re committed to turning your vision into reality, whether it’s a basement, kitchen, home office, or any other area of your home. If you’re looking to create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle, get in touch with us today, and let’s make your dream a reality. Your home should be a reflection of you, and we’re here to bring your dreams to life.

When the pendant light is too low, it can make the entire space feel oppressive; if it is too high, it can make the dining room appear spacious and cold. Therefore, in the presence of additional light sources such as spotlights and downlights, it is recommended to install the pendant light at a height of 23.6-31.5 inches from the table surface, approximately eye level with people. This ensures bright lighting without feeling overwhelming, and does not interfere with items on the dining table.

AV Architects + Builders Location: Great Falls, VA, US We suggested a French Country design to solve our clients’ needs and they couldn’t agree more. Originally, the kitchen was way to widespread and disjointed, not allowing for easy access to their backyard where they spend most of their time with their kids. The main house entry was misplaced in the mudroom and the food prep area was far too small. We made sure to integrate the kitchen with the rest of the home, as the other parts were already modernized and renovated. The kitchen layout was streamlined to include a large and comfortable dining room space, with a prep area now sitting comfortably off to the side where as it doesn’t interfere with guests but still in walking distance. Stacy Zarin Photography

THE SETUP This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities. Design Objectives: Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment. Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests. Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks. Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities. Design Challenges: Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting. Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views. Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience. AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment. Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space. Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing. THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration. Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers. Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience). AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system. Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access. Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating. Final Thoughts: The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone. This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.

The kitchen to left of the gabled eating area with vaulted ceiling, and the family area to the right with a rear entrance to the back yard. The synthetic shingle roof complements the original slate roof of the house, with the decorative half timbering & stucco of the gable in the Tudor style. The roof line of the new addition does not interfere with the second floor bedroom windows.

Eric Kneller from Reico Kitchen & Bath in Frederick, MD, partnered with Ravenwood to design a transitional kitchen using Merillat Autograph cabinetry. The kitchen features the Bayard door style in an Evercore painted Warm White finish for the wall cabinets and Maple in Stained Molasses for the base cabinets. The client shared, “We avoided a kitchen remodel for years due to stories of stressful experiences. Our project with Reico was nothing like that! From start to finish, everything was handled professionally. Eric played a key role in the process, offering helpful suggestions for the layout and design that gave us great options for customization.” Eric added, “The homeowners wanted more storage space, especially since there was no pantry in the home. We worked together to design a solution that wouldn’t interfere with the dining area. The transitional style of the cabinets works well with the warm white and dark stained finishes. I’m pleased with the final result.” Photos courtesy of BTW Images.

When the decision was made to add onto this house, our designer was able to give this family additional space to enjoy each other’s company. The existing part of basement had lower ceilings, but our team was able to add additional height to the addition. This not only opened up the space but also provided ample room for innovative design ideas. Sometimes, the layout of a space becomes apparent through practical considerations. We carefully selected the position of the TV and ping-pong table based on the layout, ensuring that the window placement wouldn’t interfere with the blue stone patio above. This thoughtfully crafted layout optimizes the functionality and flow of the space. With the challenge of a long, narrow space, we discovered the perfect solution – a dedicated ping-pong area. It’s amazing how a game can bring the family together and add a fun and dynamic element to the lower level. To create a visually appealing atmosphere, we incorporated a range of design elements. The colored cement floor adds a touch of uniqueness and is not only stylish but also durable. Two different tones of grass cloth wallpaper enhance the textured look of the walls, while the pine tongue and groove ceiling, combined with exposed beams, infuse warmth into the space. The six hanging pendant light fixtures serve as functional and decorative elements, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. This lower level addition is a testament to our ability to adapt to the unique challenges of a project and create a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It’s a wonderful example of how creative solutions can transform even the most challenging spaces into areas of style and purpose. At Crystal Kitchen, we’re committed to turning your vision into reality, whether it’s a basement, kitchen, home office, or any other area of your home. If you’re looking to create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle, get in touch with us today, and let’s make your dream a reality. Your home should be a reflection of you, and we’re here to bring your dreams to life.

Large mountain style u-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen photo in Portland with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This project was a special one for us. We had the pleasure of working with a lovely retired couple in their early 70s who were returning clients! It's always a testament to our work when clients come back for more. This time, they were ready to tackle a full bathroom and basement renovation to truly make their Mississauga home a haven for their golden years. Before: Outdated and Cramped Both bathrooms were stuck in a time warp, sporting outdated fixtures and cramped layouts. Limited storage and bulky linen towers that blocked natural light added to the feeling of confinement. Downstairs, the basement was a sea of belongings with only one closet for storage. Peeling linoleum tiles and remnants of an acoustic ceiling definitely didn't create an inviting atmosphere. The Vision: Functionality, Light, and Style Our clients desired bathrooms that were both functional and stylish, with ample storage and a spa-like ambiance. In the basement, their dream was to create a space where they could relax, pursue hobbies, and entertain, all while keeping their belongings organized. The Transformation: Custom Solutions for a Perfect Fit ●Bathrooms: We banished the bulky linen towers and designed custom vanities withdrawers and shallow countertop towers to maximize storage without sacrificing light.Frameless glass shower enclosures added a modern touch and further enhanced thefeeling of spaciousness. Each bathroom, though similar in shape, boasts a distinctpersonality. The lower level bathroom has a contemporary spa-like feel with off-whitetextured tiles and a sleek white oak vanity, while the upper bathroom exudes elegancewith polished marble-look tiles, a richly stained oak vanity, and a luxurious showerbench. ●Basement: Forget basic drywall closets! We maximized the basement's potential withtwo large closets for storage, a custom media unit, and a clever cabinet designed tohouse the clients' roll-in sewing machine table and piano. Challenges and Triumphs During the renovation, we encountered some unexpected ductwork that threatened to interfere with a planned shower niche. Our team quickly adapted, shifting the niche and maximizing its width to maintain both functionality and design. Life After Renovation: A New Chapter The transformation is remarkable. The bathrooms are now bright, spacious, and functional oases. The basement has been reborn as a haven for relaxation and hobbies, with ample storage to keep everything organized. Our clients can now enjoy movie nights, play the piano, and indulge in their crafting passions in a space that truly reflects their lifestyle. Memorable Moments Working with these clients was an absolute joy. Their trust in our expertise, especially when it came to maximizing their basement's potential, was incredibly rewarding. Seeing their faces light up as they experienced their newly renovated spaces made all the effort worthwhile. This project was a reminder that renovations are about more than just aesthetics. They're about creating spaces that enhance our clients' lives and allow them to embrace new possibilities. We're honored to have played a part in this couple's journey to a more comfortable, functional, and beautiful home.

This custom-build banquette was created onsite by our team to lower production costs. With the direction of J Peterson Design, no detail was left unattended. The shaker panels are just the right height so that the continuous baseboard doesn't interfere with the design. Integrated outlets for easy electronic charging and under-seating access panel to ensure local code-compliance. This banquette is not only functional but it's our favorite banquette done thus far because it was done correctly from the start. Did I mention the seating height is ideal?

A simple 1-storey boathouse located on Lake Muskoka in the Milford Bay and Beaumaris area between Bracebridge and Port Carling, Ontario. Modern Muskoka boathouse designs incorporate welded steel construction to create large, open boathouse interiors without interference to pedestrian circulation paths that would otherwise be caused by structural columns/posts. Boathouses in Muskoka can also incorporate structural steel in order to allow winter boat storage using boat-lifts or hoists that elevate boats and other personal watercraft out of the water and suspend them for storage inside the boathouse. We have an appreciation for the building forms and architectural ornamentation found in traditional Muskoka boathouse designs.

David Woo The main fridge is counter depth with French doors so it doesn't interfere with traffic. To make up for a smaller fridge volume, a two drawer under counter fridge was installed in the peninsula. We put drinks in the under counter fridge and food in the main fridge which has the added benefit of distributing the traffic to either side of the kitchen. This works amazingly well. The space above the fridge we turned into a display area which acknowledges that this is a hard to reach area and best used for non-daily activity. LED strip lighting lights the space and reduces a potential dark spot in the kitchen.

This bright laundry room packs plenty of storage into a narrow room. The single wall of cabinets offers ample space to store laundry and cleaning items. The countertop and large sink are perfect for sorting and rinsing clothes, and a bar was installed for hanging clothes to dry. A pocket door is ideal for this laundry room, as it tucks away neatly and does not interfere with the flow of traffic in the space.