Search results for "Task management" in Home Design Ideas

Bud Kane has remodeled nearly every room in his own home over many years. Now reaching his 70’s, he contemplated heading up a major kitchen and laundry room renovation himself, planning on doing the carpentry work with his own hands. “I was not convinced I would ever meet anyone who could do it as well as I could do it myself”, said Bud. Ruth and Bud spent 5 years visiting kitchen firms and interviewing designers. They couldn’t however bring themselves to pull the trigger on the project, until they met Advance Design Studio in 2015.
“No one understood what I wanted”, said Ruth. She was continually frustrated by experiences with designers who weren’t hearing what was important to her. “Everyone kept designing my kitchen with what they thought it should look like; I couldn’t find anyone who would listen to me”!
When they met designer Scott Christensen from Advance Design Studio, they liked him right away. He listened to Ruth and designed a kitchen that she loved, all the while interjecting years of wisdom and design expertise that Ruth appreciated. “The finished product is better than I expected”, says Ruth. “I respected Scott’s opinions and together we created the perfect place for me to bake with my grandkids and truly enjoy the kitchen and laundry room I’ve been dreaming of for many years!”
The kitchen transformation began with removing the home’s soffits, and extending new painted maple cabinetry to the ceiling with the addition of an elegant crown molding. Ruth’s new Vita Mix holds a coveted place on her counter, and adjustments were planned to size the cabinets in conjunction with the under cabinet decorative light molding to fit this appliance just right. “This one small detail was really important to me”, says Ruth smiling. An elegant new island replaced the original island, complete with room for 3 stools where her grandchildren will sit to make home-made pasta every Thanksgiving, and cookies at Christmas time. “Traditions are very important in my family, and making my kitchen work to suit cherished activities with my family was the number one reason this renovation was so desired”, replied Ruth when asked about the island.
A picture perfect new tea station replaced a cluttered unused desk area, creating a wonderful place to prepare hot drinks for sipping any season of the year while overlooking the couple’s wonderfully manicured gardens from the lovely 3 season’s room just off the kitchen. The soft sage island bead panel detail was repeated on the backsplash, replicating the feel of a fine old piece of furniture.
The biggest problem with the laundry room was 3 doors, one from the garage, one from the closet, and one to the hallway. “Scott designed a pocket door, and oh what a dream it is now to bring groceries in from the garage!” exclaims Bud who grew to disdain this task! Doing laundry is now a breeze in this attractive new space that doubles as a wonderful pantry for the kitchen with room to store food items that didn’t have a home in the poorly designed original space.
New Hickory distressed wood flooring was laid both in the kitchen and leading to the hall foyer. Soft gray wood-replicating porcelain was placed in the laundry area, making for an easily cleanable surface for what doubles as a mud room from the garage. Creamy tumbled marble graces an unobtrusive backsplash spilling onto shiny granite counter tops in a rich earthy pattern of fall colors that mimic colors throughout the home. Advance is known details that included custom crafted furniture toe kicks, luxurious crown moldings, and beaded under cabinet moldings. The kitchen is complete with a glass display cabinet showing Ruth’s treasured china tea collection.
Early on, it was initially only their intention of purchasing cabinets for the new design. They were so impressed however with Advance Design’s complete program for budgeting, design, installation and management that it became clear to them both that they wanted Advance to handle the entire project from start to finish. “After seeing the quality work they did, coupled with the in-house team completely dedicated to our satisfaction, it became apparent there was no other choice but to hire them to handle everything. And we’re so glad we did, we have not one regret”, says Bud.
“The attention to detail by the carpentry crew more than satisfied my perfectionist expectations of the finished carpentry,” exclaimed Bud. “Every one of Advance Design’s people we encountered from design through construction was wonderful. We’ve never met a group of people so dedicated to making sure we were happy with every single detail, and every single part of this experience”, said Ruth and Bud.
Designer: Scott Christensen
Photographer: Joe Nowak

See "5-Year Kitchen in Elgin" for the kitchen featured in this description.
Bud Kane has remodeled nearly every room in his own home over many years. Now reaching his 70’s, he contemplated heading up a major kitchen and laundry room renovation himself, planning on doing the carpentry work with his own hands. “I was not convinced I would ever meet anyone who could do it as well as I could do it myself”, said Bud. Ruth and Bud spent 5 years visiting kitchen firms and interviewing designers. They couldn’t however bring themselves to pull the trigger on the project, until they met Advance Design Studio in 2015.
“No one understood what I wanted”, said Ruth. She was continually frustrated by experiences with designers who weren’t hearing what was important to her. “Everyone kept designing my kitchen with what they thought it should look like; I couldn’t find anyone who would listen to me”!
When they met designer Scott Christensen from Advance Design Studio, they liked him right away. He listened to Ruth and designed a kitchen that she loved, all the while interjecting years of wisdom and design expertise that Ruth appreciated. “The finished product is better than I expected”, says Ruth. “I respected Scott’s opinions and together we created the perfect place for me to bake with my grandkids and truly enjoy the kitchen and laundry room I’ve been dreaming of for many years!”
The kitchen transformation began with removing the home’s soffits, and extending new painted maple cabinetry to the ceiling with the addition of an elegant crown molding. Ruth’s new Vita Mix holds a coveted place on her counter, and adjustments were planned to size the cabinets in conjunction with the under cabinet decorative light molding to fit this appliance just right. “This one small detail was really important to me”, says Ruth smiling. An elegant new island replaced the original island, complete with room for 3 stools where her grandchildren will sit to make home-made pasta every Thanksgiving, and cookies at Christmas time. “Traditions are very important in my family, and making my kitchen work to suit cherished activities with my family was the number one reason this renovation was so desired”, replied Ruth when asked about the island.
A picture perfect new tea station replaced a cluttered unused desk area, creating a wonderful place to prepare hot drinks for sipping any season of the year while overlooking the couple’s wonderfully manicured gardens from the lovely 3 season’s room just off the kitchen. The soft sage island bead panel detail was repeated on the backsplash, replicating the feel of a fine old piece of furniture.
The biggest problem with the laundry room was 3 doors, one from the garage, one from the closet, and one to the hallway. “Scott designed a pocket door, and oh what a dream it is now to bring groceries in from the garage!” exclaims Bud who grew to disdain this task! Doing laundry is now a breeze in this attractive new space that doubles as a wonderful pantry for the kitchen with room to store food items that didn’t have a home in the poorly designed original space.
New Hickory distressed wood flooring was laid both in the kitchen and leading to the hall foyer. Soft gray wood-replicating porcelain was placed in the laundry area, making for an easily cleanable surface for what doubles as a mud room from the garage. Creamy tumbled marble graces an unobtrusive backsplash spilling onto shiny granite counter tops in a rich earthy pattern of fall colors that mimic colors throughout the home. Advance is known details that included custom crafted furniture toe kicks, luxurious crown moldings, and beaded under cabinet moldings. The kitchen is complete with a glass display cabinet showing Ruth’s treasured china tea collection.
Early on, it was initially only their intention of purchasing cabinets for the new design. They were so impressed however with Advance Design’s complete program for budgeting, design, installation and management that it became clear to them both that they wanted Advance to handle the entire project from start to finish. “After seeing the quality work they did, coupled with the in-house team completely dedicated to our satisfaction, it became apparent there was no other choice but to hire them to handle everything. And we’re so glad we did, we have not one regret”, says Bud.
“The attention to detail by the carpentry crew more than satisfied my perfectionist expectations of the finished carpentry,” exclaimed Bud. “Every one of Advance Design’s people we encountered from design through construction was wonderful. We’ve never met a group of people so dedicated to making sure we were happy with every single detail, and every single part of this experience”, said Ruth and Bud.
Designer: Scott Christensen
Photographer: Joe Nowak

Our new clients desired a sleek, modern deck for their Wellesley Hills home. Our crews first task was to demolish the original deck- removing all of the wood decking, balusters, railings and newel posts from the deck and staircase. New Azek 5/4”x6” Slate Gray decking were installed with a beautiful Mahogany horizontal slat railing system. Two coats of stain were applied to the railings, along with new coats of Benjamin Moore paint on the deck joists, support column, lattice work and concrete walls along the homes foundation. The result: a beautiful deck our clients can enjoy for years to come!
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Bud Kane has remodeled nearly every room in his own home over many years. Now reaching his 70’s, he contemplated heading up a major kitchen and laundry room renovation himself, planning on doing the carpentry work with his own hands. “I was not convinced I would ever meet anyone who could do it as well as I could do it myself”, said Bud. Ruth and Bud spent 5 years visiting kitchen firms and interviewing designers. They couldn’t however bring themselves to pull the trigger on the project, until they met Advance Design Studio in 2015.
“No one understood what I wanted”, said Ruth. She was continually frustrated by experiences with designers who weren’t hearing what was important to her. “Everyone kept designing my kitchen with what they thought it should look like; I couldn’t find anyone who would listen to me”!
When they met designer Scott Christensen from Advance Design Studio, they liked him right away. He listened to Ruth and designed a kitchen that she loved, all the while interjecting years of wisdom and design expertise that Ruth appreciated. “The finished product is better than I expected”, says Ruth. “I respected Scott’s opinions and together we created the perfect place for me to bake with my grandkids and truly enjoy the kitchen and laundry room I’ve been dreaming of for many years!”
The kitchen transformation began with removing the home’s soffits, and extending new painted maple cabinetry to the ceiling with the addition of an elegant crown molding. Ruth’s new Vita Mix holds a coveted place on her counter, and adjustments were planned to size the cabinets in conjunction with the under cabinet decorative light molding to fit this appliance just right. “This one small detail was really important to me”, says Ruth smiling. An elegant new island replaced the original island, complete with room for 3 stools where her grandchildren will sit to make home-made pasta every Thanksgiving, and cookies at Christmas time. “Traditions are very important in my family, and making my kitchen work to suit cherished activities with my family was the number one reason this renovation was so desired”, replied Ruth when asked about the island.
A picture perfect new tea station replaced a cluttered unused desk area, creating a wonderful place to prepare hot drinks for sipping any season of the year while overlooking the couple’s wonderfully manicured gardens from the lovely 3 season’s room just off the kitchen. The soft sage island bead panel detail was repeated on the backsplash, replicating the feel of a fine old piece of furniture.
The biggest problem with the laundry room was 3 doors, one from the garage, one from the closet, and one to the hallway. “Scott designed a pocket door, and oh what a dream it is now to bring groceries in from the garage!” exclaims Bud who grew to disdain this task! Doing laundry is now a breeze in this attractive new space that doubles as a wonderful pantry for the kitchen with room to store food items that didn’t have a home in the poorly designed original space.
New Hickory distressed wood flooring was laid both in the kitchen and leading to the hall foyer. Soft gray wood-replicating porcelain was placed in the laundry area, making for an easily cleanable surface for what doubles as a mud room from the garage. Creamy tumbled marble graces an unobtrusive backsplash spilling onto shiny granite counter tops in a rich earthy pattern of fall colors that mimic colors throughout the home. Advance is known details that included custom crafted furniture toe kicks, luxurious crown moldings, and beaded under cabinet moldings. The kitchen is complete with a glass display cabinet showing Ruth’s treasured china tea collection.
Early on, it was initially only their intention of purchasing cabinets for the new design. They were so impressed however with Advance Design’s complete program for budgeting, design, installation and management that it became clear to them both that they wanted Advance to handle the entire project from start to finish. “After seeing the quality work they did, coupled with the in-house team completely dedicated to our satisfaction, it became apparent there was no other choice but to hire them to handle everything. And we’re so glad we did, we have not one regret”, says Bud.
“The attention to detail by the carpentry crew more than satisfied my perfectionist expectations of the finished carpentry,” exclaimed Bud. “Every one of Advance Design’s people we encountered from design through construction was wonderful. We’ve never met a group of people so dedicated to making sure we were happy with every single detail, and every single part of this experience”, said Ruth and Bud.
Designer: Scott Christensen
Photographer: Joe Nowak

Our clients, a vibrant young family with two energetic kids and a playful dog, were feeling the constraints of their outdated, cramped house. The Main Floor was divided by walls, fragmenting the Kitchen, Dining Room, and living areas, making family time and entertaining a bit of a struggle.
The Kitchen was small and dim, lacking counter space and storage. The kids' study/play table was squeezed into a tight corner, emphasizing the lack of space. The dark hardwood floors were scratched and worn, and the foyer felt cramped and uninviting. The powder room was also
The idea of a major renovation brought both excitement and a bit of anxiety. The couple was unsure about design decisions and worried about the challenges of dealing with structural columns and beams.
Collaborating with Sosna designer Camila, the family embarked on a journey to transform their outdated house into a bright, functional home.
To open up the space, walls were removed, creating a seamless flow between the foyer, living room, dining room, and kitchen.
The kitchen was relocated and expanded to include generous counter space and a large island, providing the ideal spot for the kids to help prepare meals—a task they’ve come to enjoy since the renovation—or work on their homework. Additionally, the addition of a cozy window bench offers extra seating for hanging out with the family. It’s also the perfect place to curl up with a good book.
The once dark and gloomy powder room was completely refreshed with new fixtures, a white oak vanity, and beautiful floor tiles, which significantly brightened it up.
Additionally, the dark hardwood floors were replaced with a lighter, more modern option, brightening the entire main floor.
The renovation wasn't without its hiccups. A mix-up with the hardwood flooring led to a last-minute scramble for a replacement. But in the end, the family fell in love with the new flooring, proving that sometimes unexpected changes can lead to even better outcomes.
The renovation completely transformed the home. What was once a cramped and segmented main floor is now a bright, open space perfectly suited to the family's lifestyle. The new kitchen island became the heart of the home, providing a place for the kids to do homework while their parents cooked, fostering a sense of togetherness. The open layout also made hosting gatherings effortless.
Throughout the renovation, the kids and their dog brought a playful energy to the construction site, forming a special bond with the crew. Despite the challenges of living through a renovation, the family managed to maintain a sense of normalcy, working from home when possible and appreciating the crew's efforts to keep things tidy.
What started as a simple update turned into a full-scale transformation that reflects the family’s needs and personal style. Their willingness to embrace bold design choices, such as blush pink tiles and bright floral patterns, adds a unique touch to the space. And that hardwood flooring mix-up? It turned out to be a happy accident, resulting in a floor they love even more.
In the end, this renovation was more than just a home makeover; it was about creating a space that truly feels like home, nurturing family connections, and bringing joy to everyday life.

Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes offers expanded square footage, clever storage solutions, and effortless daily functionality. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired custom kitchen featuring expansive counter space, a large center island for gathering, and double-stacked kitchen cabinets for maximized storage. For seamless hosting, a connected messy kitchen and giant walk-in pantry keep prep, clutter, and dishes out of sight from the main living area.
A dedicated pocket office provides the ideal flex space to work, organize, or manage daily tasks before leading into the private owner's retreat. Here, you'll find a primary bedroom with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired owner's bath complete with a sleek glass shower and a luxurious soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, additional bedrooms provide private, comfortable spaces for family or guests.
Designed with thoughtful layout flow and premium custom details, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes delivers a harmonious balance of luxury, practicality, and modern living.

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

Named for the original homestead, the Aspen Leaf Ranch blends early ranch history with modern sensibility. The owner, an outdoorsman and native plant enthusiast, and former project manager of notable Seattle buildings (including the Olympic Sculpture Park and the Bullitt Center), tasked Best Practice Architecture with designing a modest yet comfortable home reflective of valley cabins and farmsteads. He desired a small home that was ‘light on the land’, yet flexible enough to accommodate visiting friends and family. Located in a quiet river valley 10 miles from the nearest town, the result is a humble compound firmly rooted in the rural vernacular.
The Methow Valley was familiar to the owner from childhood ski and camping trips and he now has family who live in the area. The Valley is hot and dry in the summer and on average receives over 70 inches of snow each winter. Set in a narrow river valley below high mountain peaks, the owner wanted the new home to have a strong visual and physical connection to the surrounding landscape. For many years, the homestead was operated as a horse packing guide service, and an old agricultural barn remains that will eventually be repurposed into a ski waxing room, shop, and sauna. Two new structures make up the residential retreat: a one-bedroom main house and a carport with an adjoining guest suite, small office, and storage for outdoor equipment. Best Practice’s design prioritizes natural light and optimizes dramatic views of the surrounding meadow, forest, hills, and mountains
“I wanted both the design and scale of the new buildings to reflect traditional ranch homes and cabins in the remote river valley with all the creature comforts of modern living,” said the homeowner. “Ensuring a strong connection to the outside throughout the seasons was a primary goal. Windows on all sides and three exterior doors allow me to track the many species of birds and wildlife that move through the property and access the ever-changing light and weather.”
Best Practice carefully positioned the new structures to frame important vistas while minimizing disturbance to the native forest and meadow. The exterior finishes and details are consistent with historic cabins and barns in the area but stylized to acknowledge the new structure’s place in time. Metal roofing, siding, and a gravel skirt were chosen to reduce wildfire risk, and native plantings attract and support local birds and wildlife. Best Practice simplified the interior detailing with a nod towards a rural cabin aesthetic, incorporating painted beadboard, extensive built-in cabinetry, warm woods, a sizeable kitchen, and an open nook for daytime lounging and overnight guests. The design also took into account the owner’s collection of art, family heirlooms, and furniture gathered over many years.
Best Practice designed this Methow Valley home to respect the history and beauty of the historic Aspen Leaf Ranch while embracing modern comforts. The design successfully meets a well-considered program for 4-season use and serves as a full-time rural retreat for the owner as well as a gathering place for friends and family.

While we are not home inspectors, we are sometimes asked by clients who are considering buying an antique home to offer our thoughts and opinions on individual properties before they purchase them. Such was the case with Bryan and Erin in Smithfield, Rhode Island. When they called, they had already looked at the early nineteenth-century center chimney colonial on the hilltop and they were interested in looking again. Much of the house was original and, as is often the case in two-hundred-year-old buildings, long of tooth and ready for a new family to move in.
Erin and Bryan decided to be that family and we were thrilled to work with them to make the house their own. That started with performing a full structural evaluation of the existing house and determining what repairs they needed to consider. We also designed a single-storey shed style addition that would house a new kitchen and bathroom.
As with many projects undertaken on old buildings, it is wise to approach the work with a master plan in mind. We understand and share the hard truth that owning an antique property is often a financial burden and the decision to do so an expression of passion for… something different. Working with Bryan and Erin, we developed a master plan that established outlines for the work to happen over time.
They started with extensive structural repairs in the basement and portions of the exterior walls. We also added a new foundation for the addition and decided to reframe the flooring system through the original house out through the addition. This spared us the task of rebuilding the original collapsing foundation along that wall. We created a kitchen with an open floorplan but used reclaimed hard pine flooring through the addition to match the original floors elsewhere. We also reproduced any original millwork from elsewhere in the house for the added space.
Erin and Bryan aren’t farmers but they could be. Even before they moved in, they planted gardens and as our work wound down, they sent us home with vegetables daily.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Charleston II American Tradition in Greenville, South Carolina, effortlessly balances traditional architectural details with modern elements. Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II offers increased square footage and abundant storage solutions tailored for modern living. The heart of the home is an expansive, open-concept great room defined by classic wall paneling details and a custom iron railing that perfectly completes the home’s refined traditional style. This grand living space flows seamlessly into a chef-ready kitchen equipped with generous counter space, a large central island to gather around, and a giant walk-in pantry. To manage busy family schedules, an oversized laundry and mudroom zone has been upgraded with dramatic floor-to-ceiling tile, a custom bench locker, and integrated coat hooks to keep the home perfectly organized.
The thoughtful layout continues with a perfectly placed pocket office, offering a quiet, dedicated space to organize daily tasks or work from home. This pocket office leads gracefully into the luxurious owner’s retreat, a private main-level sanctuary showcasing an expansive primary bath and two large walk-in closets. To elevate the primary suite's design aesthetic, the bedroom features a show-stopping beamed cathedral ceiling that adds striking verticality and architectural detail. A smart split-bedroom layout ensures ultimate privacy for the entire family, keeping the additional secondary bedrooms situated on the completely opposite side of the residence so everyone can enjoy their own independent space.

A classic West Side loft in Hell’s Kitchen, Gallery’s main task was to renovate the large kitchen. The clients like to entertain, so in addition to remodeling the aesthetic, we expanded the footprint of the island and built an entirely new bar at the opposite end of the kitchen. Some design choices are a natural fit for the space. In this case, that meant leaning into the industrial vibe of the exposed concrete while bringing in some character with the material choices.
INDUSTRIAL CHIC
With an industrial aesthetic in mind, gray was a natural color choice for the fully custom Miralis cabinets. The backsplash was designed in a subway brick pattern, but rather than the typical porcelain or marble, a clay tile in a white matte tone resembling cement was chosen to further coordinate with the exposed concrete.
Stacked cabinets were installed to accommodate the tall loft ceilings. For contrast, we incorporated glass front cabinetry with lighting in some areas. The resulting marriage of concrete, glass, and wood is well-matched for an industrial chic loft kitchen.
Further highlighting the homeowners’ love of entertaining, we also built an entirely custom bar at one end of the space, featuring open shelving in contrasting wood tones with underlighting and a custom mirrored backsplash for an authentic bar feel.
ADVENTURES IN APPROACHING COLUMNS
Loft renovations tend to come with two common needs: how to fill all that space tastefully and how to work with those ever present columns. In the case of this loft kitchen renovation, it suited the industrial aesthetic not to wrap the concrete column as one typically would, but rather to leave it exposed, accentuating the raw character of the space. Partially as a result, the island expanded too, creating more room for functional additions such as a built-in microwave, wine fridge, and more open shelving to match the bar, outlined with a countertop overhang to optimize counter space and chair storage.
ANCHORED IN SYMMETRY
With a loft space as unusually large as this one, an ideal design strategy, especially when high ceilings are involved, is to anchor the kitchen on opposing sides. Here, one side is anchored by a large floor-to-ceiling pantry, while the other is anchored by the counter-depth fridge with cabinetry above. The connecting element is the counter space in the middle, resulting in the visual impact of a long kitchen run within the open floor plan of a loft.
SOME HIGHLIGHTS
- Entirely custom-built bar with custom mirrored backsplash templated specifically for this project
- Large, oversized island with seating all around, open shelving, and built-in microwave
- Subway backsplash tiles in clay rather than porcelain or marble
- Olympian white marble countertops
Considering a kitchen loft renovation in New York? Our expertise is in renovating all kinds of New York Spaces, from gut renovations of historic landmark buildings like brownstones and townhomes to kitchens and bathrooms in lofts and other apartments in managed buildings. Contact us to find out if our full-scale design-and-build approach is right for your project.

Custom Free Standing Entertainment Center with Glass Top Shelves and Bottom Shaker Doors with Matte Black Pulls shown in Bright White on Maple - 160"w x 90"h x 18"d
Custom TV Base Cabinet with 4 Shaker Panel Doors, Flat Trim and 3" Flat Base (Center Partition with 2 Openings, 2 adjustable shelves) – 72”w x 30”h x 18"d -TO FIT A 75" TV (66”w x 41"h with stand)
2 Custom End Cabinet with 2 Shaker Panel Doors, Flat Trim and 3" Flat Base (Center Partition with 2 Openings, 2 adjustable shelves) – 44”w x 30”h x 18”d
2 Custom Open Bookcase Hutch with 3" Crown on Face, 1 Side and Flat Trim (2 Adjustable Wood Shelves) – 44”w x 60”h x 12”d
2 Tempered Glass Shelves 3/8" (replaces wooden shelf) - Top Shelf Only (one in each Hutch )
Traditional Center Bridge with 3" Crown Molding
LED Task Light Kit for Top of Pier 2 Round 1 1/4" Lights, On/Off Switch, Transformer and 1 Extension
Hidden Wire Management

They always loved their house – its shape and size, and the piece of land it sits on; but the interior left a lot to be desired. In fact, they hated it. They wanted it to be aesthetically more pleasing and to have much more function and flow.
These homeowners challenged Lagois to make it the home of their dreams, and that’s exactly what happened. One of the homeowners loves to cook, but the kitchen was dark. The space was difficult and frustrating. The new kitchen is bigger, brighter, and more functional. It now has all the prep space he needs and the task lighting he always wanted.
They also love their new spa bathroom, which is beautiful and warm and exactly what they had in mind. One of the homeowners describes himself as fussy and impatient, and at first he had been anxious about the whole prospect of renovation. He said afterwards that the team made him feel comfortable, listened to, and unconcerned.
One factor that made them so at ease with choosing Lagois was the “in house” aspect of their services. The person who designed their home, the one who did the drawings, and the person who managed the construction are all Lagois employees. The homeowners liked knowing those critical functions weren’t outsourced.
Another thing they love about their home is the finishes that are exactly to their taste. The homeowners are delighted with the new interior of their home. It is now something they love – both outside and inside.

A classic West Side loft in Hell’s Kitchen, Gallery’s main task was to renovate the large kitchen. The clients like to entertain, so in addition to remodeling the aesthetic, we expanded the footprint of the island and built an entirely new bar at the opposite end of the kitchen. Some design choices are a natural fit for the space. In this case, that meant leaning into the industrial vibe of the exposed concrete while bringing in some character with the material choices.
INDUSTRIAL CHIC
With an industrial aesthetic in mind, gray was a natural color choice for the fully custom Miralis cabinets. The backsplash was designed in a subway brick pattern, but rather than the typical porcelain or marble, a clay tile in a white matte tone resembling cement was chosen to further coordinate with the exposed concrete.
Stacked cabinets were installed to accommodate the tall loft ceilings. For contrast, we incorporated glass front cabinetry with lighting in some areas. The resulting marriage of concrete, glass, and wood is well-matched for an industrial chic loft kitchen.
Further highlighting the homeowners’ love of entertaining, we also built an entirely custom bar at one end of the space, featuring open shelving in contrasting wood tones with underlighting and a custom mirrored backsplash for an authentic bar feel.
ADVENTURES IN APPROACHING COLUMNS
Loft renovations tend to come with two common needs: how to fill all that space tastefully and how to work with those ever present columns. In the case of this loft kitchen renovation, it suited the industrial aesthetic not to wrap the concrete column as one typically would, but rather to leave it exposed, accentuating the raw character of the space. Partially as a result, the island expanded too, creating more room for functional additions such as a built-in microwave, wine fridge, and more open shelving to match the bar, outlined with a countertop overhang to optimize counter space and chair storage.
ANCHORED IN SYMMETRY
With a loft space as unusually large as this one, an ideal design strategy, especially when high ceilings are involved, is to anchor the kitchen on opposing sides. Here, one side is anchored by a large floor-to-ceiling pantry, while the other is anchored by the counter-depth fridge with cabinetry above. The connecting element is the counter space in the middle, resulting in the visual impact of a long kitchen run within the open floor plan of a loft.
SOME HIGHLIGHTS
- Entirely custom-built bar with custom mirrored backsplash templated specifically for this project
- Large, oversized island with seating all around, open shelving, and built-in microwave
- Subway backsplash tiles in clay rather than porcelain or marble
- Olympian white marble countertops
Considering a kitchen loft renovation in New York? Our expertise is in renovating all kinds of New York Spaces, from gut renovations of historic landmark buildings like brownstones and townhomes to kitchens and bathrooms in lofts and other apartments in managed buildings. Contact us to find out if our full-scale design-and-build approach is right for your project.

This beautifully designed laundry room also functions as a compact workspace, seamlessly blending utility and elegance. The soft sage green cabinetry, adorned with brass handles, provides both style and storage. A built-in desk area, complete with drawers and a chic acrylic chair, creates a versatile nook perfect for managing household tasks. The glossy white subway tile backsplash reflects light, enhancing the brightness of the room. Warmth and texture are added through the woven pendant light, which casts intricate patterns across the ceiling. The herringbone tile flooring brings a sophisticated touch.

An oversized storage/guest room became a suite for children to entertain friends as well as a place to sleep and study. Ordinary closet doors were replaced with old doors covered with chalkboard paint for messages and memos sliding on a heavy metal track. An old metal work bench base was updated with a new top to house three TV’s for video gaming. A large sectional gives generous seating for his friends when playing games or just relaxing.
Rustic sconces on either side of the bed create task lighting for studying. A fun dresser that mimics an old trunk provides storage. The space is topped off with accessories indigenous of a boy’s space.
Photos by Randy Colwell

This versatile space can be tailored to your needs. While the standard layout includes a formal dining room, the design allows for flexibility, it can easily be transformed into a dedicated study or home office.
This adaptable room provides a quiet and functional environment, ideal for remote work, reading, or managing household tasks, all while seamlessly integrating into the home's overall flow.

Based on one of our most popular floor plans, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes offers expanded square footage, clever storage solutions, and effortless daily functionality. At the heart of the home is a chef-inspired custom kitchen featuring expansive counter space, a large center island for gathering, and double-stacked kitchen cabinets for maximized storage. For seamless hosting, a connected messy kitchen and giant walk-in pantry keep prep, clutter, and dishes out of sight from the main living area.
A dedicated pocket office provides the ideal flex space to work, organize, or manage daily tasks before leading into the private owner's retreat. Here, you'll find a primary bedroom with dual walk-in closets and a spa-inspired owner's bath complete with a sleek glass shower and a luxurious soaking tub. On the opposite side of the home, additional bedrooms provide private, comfortable spaces for family or guests.
Designed with thoughtful layout flow and premium custom details, the Charleston II by Schumacher Homes delivers a harmonious balance of luxury, practicality, and modern living.

This was a typical 50's era, dark, outdated house with low ceilings and prehistoric finishes. And, to top it all off, there was ONE pink bathroom on the main floor.
What did we change here? Let’s see… just about everything. We opened up the kitchen, added a large window above the sink. We installed new custom kitchen cabinets and an island. We created a multilevel ceiling for zone definition, and added various light fixtures to provide ambient, decorative and sufficient task lighting. We completely changed the fireplace and added a custom built cabinet to add storage space.
New windows, new floors, new pantry, new closets and new bathrooms. Yes, bathroomS, there is an “s” in there. We managed to give the homeowner a master ensuite bathroom in the space where no one thought it could be possible. We literally stretched the walls.
Yep, we can do that :)

Custom Free Standing Entertainment Center with Glass Top Shelves and Bottom Shaker Doors with Matte Black Pulls shown in Bright White on Maple - 160"w x 90"h x 18"d
Custom TV Base Cabinet with 4 Shaker Panel Doors, Flat Trim and 3" Flat Base (Center Partition with 2 Openings, 2 adjustable shelves) – 72”w x 30”h x 18"d -TO FIT A 75" TV (66”w x 41"h with stand)
2 Custom End Cabinet with 2 Shaker Panel Doors, Flat Trim and 3" Flat Base (Center Partition with 2 Openings, 2 adjustable shelves) – 44”w x 30”h x 18”d
2 Custom Open Bookcase Hutch with 3" Crown on Face, 1 Side and Flat Trim (2 Adjustable Wood Shelves) – 44”w x 60”h x 12”d
2 Tempered Glass Shelves 3/8" (replaces wooden shelf) - Top Shelf Only (one in each Hutch )
Traditional Center Bridge with 3" Crown Molding
LED Task Light Kit for Top of Pier 2 Round 1 1/4" Lights, On/Off Switch, Transformer and 1 Extension
Hidden Wire Management
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