Our team was approached by a lovely client in early January 2022 to undertake a full home renovation project. The scope of the project initially included updating the interior of the home, with a focus on the kitchen, flooring, all the bathrooms, and the basement. We also took on the task of painting the entire interior of the house, giving it a fresh and updated look. As the project progressed, the client expressed interest in updating the exterior of the home as well. We worked with them to design and build a new deck that provided a functional and stylish space for outdoor entertaining. We also tackled the landscaping of the front and backyard of the property, creating a cohesive and inviting look that complemented the updated interior design. Throughout the project, we worked closely with the client to ensure that their vision was realized, taking care to incorporate their input and preferences into every aspect of the design. We also prioritized functionality and durability, selecting materials and finishes that would stand the test of time and provide lasting value for the homeowner. Despite the scale of the project, we were able to complete it in just four months, from day one to last one. Our team worked efficiently and effectively to ensure that every detail was taken care of, from the initial design to the final finishing touches. The end result is a stunning and functional home that the client is thrilled with. The updated interior provides a modern and comfortable living space, while the new deck and landscaping create a welcoming and inviting exterior. We are proud to have been a part of this transformative project and look forward to providing more high-quality renovation services in the future.

Gulf-Front Grandeur Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects Builder: Hufham Farris Construction --- This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project. We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors. Challenges: This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time. Solution: The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project. However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves! --- Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

This transitional kitchen remodel features custom shaker cabinetry, a warm wood-stained island, and a highly functional U-shaped layout designed for everyday living. The original kitchen was reimagined to improve flow, storage, and lighting while maintaining a timeless, neutral color palette. Light greige custom cabinets extend to the ceiling with crown molding for a built-in look, paired with soft-close drawers and doors for lasting durability. Deep drawer storage near the range, expanded island storage, and improved corner cabinetry solutions maximize organization and efficiency. Under-cabinet lighting and recessed ceiling lighting enhance task areas and create a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Wide plank wood flooring in a natural finish adds warmth and complements the neutral cabinetry, while the centered sink under the window brings in natural light and balances the layout. This custom kitchen renovation blends classic design, modern functionality, and thoughtful storage solutions—creating a warm, family-friendly space built to stand the test of time.

This custom kitchen remodel in Vienna, VA was designed to feel timeless, functional, and welcoming. The homeowners wanted a space that balanced clean lines with natural materials, while improving lighting, workflow, and overall comfort. A key design decision was using Taj Mahal quartzite for both the countertops and the full-height backsplash. Carrying the same stone throughout the kitchen creates a seamless look and allows the soft veining and warm tones of the natural stone to become the focal point of the space. The cabinetry was selected to complement the stone without overpowering it, offering ample storage and a classic profile that will age well over time. Updated lighting, including under-cabinet and recessed ceiling fixtures, enhances both task functionality and ambiance, while behind-the-scenes upgrades to electrical, ventilation, and HVAC ensure the kitchen performs as beautifully as it looks. The result is a refined yet livable kitchen designed for everyday use and long-term enjoyment.

Girl and Boy Bedrooms: Personalization: Allow each teenager to express their individual style and interests in their bedroom decor. Incorporate their favorite colors, artwork, and decor elements that reflect their personalities. Ample Storage: Include sufficient storage options like closets, shelves, and drawers to accommodate their belongings and keep the rooms organized. Flexibility: Design the space in a way that allows for flexibility and future adaptations as their needs and preferences may change over time.

2013 NARI Capital CotY, Merit Award Winner, Creative Solutions under $15,000 Objective: This couple was tired of the old brick look of their family room and its embedded fireplace. They wanted to uplift the entire room, with better lighting, updated built ins and new gas log fireplace. Challenges: It was not an easy task to get rid of all masonry and brick wall. Gas lines and powder line were quite distance away and the family room floor was a concrete slab. Design solutions: It was important for the couple to create an optional separation between the family room and the kitchen for times that she is having her book club gang over and husband wanted to watch his sporting events. Part of the wall between kitchen and family room was taken by a closet. We have removed that entire wall and implemented a 6” wide Barn door for a partial solution to their problem. New wiring for light and cable wires were running into the old masonry wall. Gas line gave the old wood burning fireplace and new life. Custom built in cabinetry was placed in place old masonry wall. A new stone hearth and surround wrapped around the new fireplace. New hardwood wide plank flooring gave this family room warmth. New recess lighting has offered a much brighter room. Outcome: He gets to enjoy his favorite football team beat up the rebels while she gets to have her tea party around the kitchen table. And in all other occasions they get to cuddle by the flames of a new fireplace.

This Electric Mirror Product Features: Lead-free, copper-free, corrosion-resistant DuraMirror glass Forward-facing task lighting Forward-phase dimming technology Suitable for damp bathroom environments Environmentally sustainable Energy efficient Fast lead times Easy installation Title 24 compliance available Covered by one or more patents Watts: 56 Dimension: 21"W x 30"H x 2"D (Oval) Weight: 23 lbs Made in America with U.S. and global components By uniting a romantic shape with a stunning circle of brilliant light, we created an Eternity that encapsulates a clear vision of renewal and balance, boldly illuminating your space with timeless elegance.

This home was a total renovation overhaul! I started working with this wonderful family a couple of years ago on the exterior and it grew from there! Exterior, full main floor, full upper floor and bonus room all renovated by the time we were done. The addition of wood beams, hardwood flooring and brick bring depth and warmth to the house. We added a lot of different lighting throughout the house. Lighting for art, accent and task lighting - there is no shortage now. Herringbone and diagonal tile bring character along with varied finishes throughout the house. We played with different light fixtures, metals and textures and we believe the result is truly amazing! Basement next?

The Lakota Residence occupies a spectacular 10-acre site in the hills above northwest Portland, Oregon. The residence consists of a main house of nearly 10,000 sf and a caretakers cottage/guest house of 1,200 sf over a shop/garage. Both have been sited to capture the four mountain Cascade panorama plus views to the city and the Columbia River gorge while maintaining an internal privacy. The buildings are set in a highly manicured and refined immediate site set within a largely forested environment complete with a variety of wildlife. Successful business people, the owners desired an elegant but "edgey" retreat that would accommodate an active social life while still functional as "mission control" for their construction materials business. There are days at a time when business is conducted from Lakota. The three-level main house has been benched into an edge of the site. Entry to the middle or main floor occurs from the south with the entry framing distant views to Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier. Conceived as a ruin upon which a modernist house has been built, the radiused and largely opaque stone wall anchors a transparent steel and glass north elevation that consumes the view. Recreational spaces and garage occupy the lower floor while the upper houses sleeping areas at the west end and office functions to the east. Obsessive with their concern for detail, the owners were involved daily on site during the construction process. Much of the interiors were sketched on site and mocked up at full scale to test formal concepts. Eight years from site selection to move in, the Lakota Residence is a project of the old school process.

This home was a total renovation overhaul! I started working with this wonderful family a couple of years ago on the exterior and it grew from there! Exterior, full main floor, full upper floor and bonus room all renovated by the time we were done. The addition of wood beams, hardwood flooring and brick bring depth and warmth to the house. We added a lot of different lighting throughout the house. Lighting for art, accent and task lighting - there is no shortage now. Herringbone and diagonal tile bring character along with varied finishes throughout the house. We played with different light fixtures, metals and textures and we believe the result is truly amazing! Basement next?

Girl and Boy Bedrooms: Personalization: Allow each teenager to express their individual style and interests in their bedroom decor. Incorporate their favorite colors, artwork, and decor elements that reflect their personalities. Ample Storage: Include sufficient storage options like closets, shelves, and drawers to accommodate their belongings and keep the rooms organized. Flexibility: Design the space in a way that allows for flexibility and future adaptations as their needs and preferences may change over time.

When Sara Mosele Interiors, an innovative architecture/interior design studio in New York, was tasked with transforming a client’s new one-bedroom apartment in the Chelsea section of New York into his dream home, she jumped at the chance to merge her “design with a human touch” philosophy with her Italian sensibility. The client, a young Italian, was a first-time buyer who wanted to transition from his eclectic rental look to a sophisticated, sustainable aesthetic that was both warm and contemporary. Sara mobilized her team to create a functional yet stylish environment that will remain timeless. Sara knew the apartment had good bones in an old building with character. The apartment needed minimal upgrades. The footprint was functional, the wooden floors were in good condition. and the kitchen and bathroom required no major chamges. Sara and team were able to plunge into the design, using color, shape and texture to make a new statement, The walls became a neutral canvas in each room. The living room, for example, was painted a soft gray against which an abstract painting with bright red and blue colors became the inspiration for the selection of a bright blue chair and ottoman in boucle, blue pillows on an off-white modular sofa, and complementary red and blue rugs. The goal was to work with high-end modern Italian brands --- Flexform, Vitra, Molteni &C, among them ---selected in sizes that match the proportions of the rooms. A challenge throughout was the need for more lighting which was addressed creatively with an abstract chandelier in the living room and a similar modern look over a sleek metal table in the dining room where rust-colored chairs edge the metal table. Three modern light fixtures also are placed over the sink in the kitchen The bedroom also juxtaposes a brown headboard and a whimsical taupe side table by Vitra with sections that rotate, creating contrast against a creamy beige bedspread and wall color. A custom-made wardrobe serves as a focal piece and valuable storage space.

Depending on your kitchen layout, island sinks can save you space and functionality. One of the main reasons for the main sink in the island is how much time you spend at the sink. If you tend to socialize more in the kitchen while doing tasks, island sinks may be for you! Since this was a family home reno project, a ton of interaction will take place in this area! We made sure to create an inviting space along with Etch Design Group. There was a full gut of the kitchen. This included all cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash. The main focus in this kitchen part of the reno was moving the sink location from the wall to the newly installed island. The new layout included new cabinets painted a beautiful shade of timeless white, on top of those polished Statuario quartz countertops with light veining were installed. These new custom cabinets were customized to the homeowners' specifications for her kitchenware items. Electrically, we installed 6 new LED recessed canned lights and added new outlets to the island to add more lighting in the home.

Gulf-Front Grandeur Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects Builder: Hufham Farris Construction --- This one-of-a-kind Gulf-front residence in the New Urbanism community of Alys Beach, Florida, is truly a stunning piece of architecture matched only by its views. E. F. San Juan worked with the Alys Beach Town Planners at Khoury & Vogt Architects and the building team at Hufham Farris Construction on this challenging and fulfilling project. We supplied character white oak interior boxed beams and stair parts. We also furnished all of the interior trim and paneling. The exterior products we created include ipe shutters, gates, fascia and soffit, handrails, and newels (balcony), ceilings, and wall paneling, as well as custom columns and arched cased openings on the balconies. In addition, we worked with our trusted partners at Loewen to provide windows and Loewen LiftSlide doors. Challenges: This was the homeowners’ third residence in the area for which we supplied products, and it was indeed a unique challenge. The client wanted as much of the exterior as possible to be weathered wood. This included the shutters, gates, fascia, soffit, handrails, balcony newels, massive columns, and arched openings mentioned above. The home’s Gulf-front location makes rot and weather damage genuine threats. Knowing that this home was to be built to last through the ages, we needed to select a wood species that was up for the task. It needed to not only look beautiful but also stand up to those elements over time. Solution: The E. F. San Juan team and the talented architects at KVA settled upon ipe (pronounced “eepay”) for this project. It is one of the only woods that will sink when placed in water (you would not want to make a boat out of ipe!). This species is also commonly known as ironwood because it is so dense, making it virtually rot-resistant, and therefore an excellent choice for the substantial pieces of millwork needed for this project. However, ipe comes with its own challenges; its weight and density make it difficult to put through machines and glue. These factors also come into play for hinging when using ipe for a gate or door, which we did here. We used innovative joining methods to ensure that the gates and shutters had secondary and tertiary means of support with regard to the joinery. We believe the results speak for themselves! --- Photography by Layne Lillie, courtesy of Khoury & Vogt Architects

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

Chicagoland Home Products knows that when clients must multi-task, they want rooms in their house, condo or apartment that will work as hard as they do. CHP designed a custom office built-in with a murphy bed in Northfield, Illinois, that provides two rooms in one. An office was essential. In these times of working out of the home or rocking a side gig, an office that you can walk to without leaving your house is often a necessity. Since space costs money, making that office perform double duty as a bedroom is an economical idea. Some people make do with a desk crammed in the corner of a bedroom and call it an office. That is not the case with Chicagoland Home Product’s custom storage solution. Rustic Cherry finish sparks an office that is very office-like with a desk, file storage and a place for office supplies. Other people make do with an air mattress thrown on the floor, crammed next to an office chair and call it a bedroom. Not so here. The same Rustic Cherry ignites a classy bedroom with side cabinets and shelves for storage. What you have here is an office that is an office and a bedroom that is, really, a bedroom. Those two rooms occupy the same space with panache. It can be done, as you see in the pictures.

Girl and Boy Bedrooms: Personalization: Allow each teenager to express their individual style and interests in their bedroom decor. Incorporate their favorite colors, artwork, and decor elements that reflect their personalities. Ample Storage: Include sufficient storage options like closets, shelves, and drawers to accommodate their belongings and keep the rooms organized. Flexibility: Design the space in a way that allows for flexibility and future adaptations as their needs and preferences may change over time.

This custom kitchen remodel in Vienna, VA was designed to feel timeless, functional, and welcoming. The homeowners wanted a space that balanced clean lines with natural materials, while improving lighting, workflow, and overall comfort. A key design decision was using Taj Mahal quartzite for both the countertops and the full-height backsplash. Carrying the same stone throughout the kitchen creates a seamless look and allows the soft veining and warm tones of the natural stone to become the focal point of the space. The cabinetry was selected to complement the stone without overpowering it, offering ample storage and a classic profile that will age well over time. Updated lighting, including under-cabinet and recessed ceiling fixtures, enhances both task functionality and ambiance, while behind-the-scenes upgrades to electrical, ventilation, and HVAC ensure the kitchen performs as beautifully as it looks. The result is a refined yet livable kitchen designed for everyday use and long-term enjoyment.

This transitional kitchen remodel features custom shaker cabinetry, a warm wood-stained island, and a highly functional U-shaped layout designed for everyday living. The original kitchen was reimagined to improve flow, storage, and lighting while maintaining a timeless, neutral color palette. Warm wood custom cabinets extend to the ceiling with crown molding for a built-in look, paired with soft-close drawers and doors for lasting durability. Deep drawer storage near the range, expanded island storage, and improved corner cabinetry solutions maximize organization and efficiency. Under-cabinet lighting and recessed ceiling lighting enhance task areas and create a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Ceramic tile flooring in a natural finish adds warmth and complements the neutral cabinetry, while the centered sink under the window brings in natural light and balances the layout. This custom kitchen renovation blends classic design, modern functionality, and thoughtful storage solutions—creating a warm, family-friendly space built to stand the test of time.