Search results for "Trades lasting" in Home Design Ideas

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered.
Before: Larkhall Crescent Home:
Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative.
Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind.
After: Warm & Cozy Family Room:
Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen.
Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible.
Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston.
We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice.
Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking…
Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living:
This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends.
On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise…
A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard.
To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated.
Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting.
Praise from Our Clients:
It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say?
“Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations.
Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!”
In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Our handcrafted outdoor/indoor lighting collection is made from real cocoa, banyan, jackfruit, and alibangbang leaves and other sustainable material suited to be outdoors as well as indoors. Made using Fair Trade practices, the outdoor lighting collection features a built-in outdoor LED lighting system designed to last 15+ years. Each LED bulb produces 800 lumens of light which is similar to a 60-watt bulb. WorkingWonders is a dealer for U.S.-based Eangee Home Designs and these lovely lamps are produced by Fair Trade artisans in The Philippines. We often run Free Shipping specials on these lamps!

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered.
Before: Larkhall Crescent Home:
Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative.
Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind.
After: Warm & Cozy Family Room:
Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen.
Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible.
Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston.
We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice.
Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking…
Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living:
This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends.
On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise…
A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard.
To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated.
Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting.
Praise from Our Clients:
It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say?
“Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations.
Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!”
In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)
Find the right local pro for your project

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered.
Before: Larkhall Crescent Home:
Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative.
Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind.
After: Warm & Cozy Family Room:
Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen.
Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible.
Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston.
We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice.
Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking…
Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living:
This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends.
On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise…
A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard.
To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated.
Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting.
Praise from Our Clients:
It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say?
“Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations.
Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!”
In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

The Canada House on Trafalgar Square in London England has been undergoing a planned revitalization for the last two years.
The project, expected to be completed by November 30, 2014, will renovate and refurbish Canada House and connect it to the adjacent building at 2-4 Cockspur Street, which will also be upgraded.
We were awarded the opportunity to build a unique table that would represent the province of Manitoba in the Canada House as its revitalization initiative to represent Canadian artists and designers to the world.
The table itself was built from a 200+ year old salvaged Manitoba Oak tree cut on our sawmill to retain the live edges. We carefully selected pieces to incorporate some beautiful natural cracks where Walnut butterfly keys were incorporated for structural integrity.
The stain was carefully custom mixed in-house to match the other surrounding furnishings in the room the table is destined to be in. The electrical power data modules we’re sent to us direct from the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada and counter sunk into the table for a flush design.
We built the custom steel leg and leg structure accommodating for the heft weight of the tabletop.
Lastly the table was packaged according to ISPM 15 certified packaging for oversees export requirements.
Design specs: 144”W x 48”D x 29”H x 1.5”T live edge Manitoba salvaged Oak table with custom Walnut stain colour finished with OSMO Hardwax Polyx Oil.
2015 © Ray Chan Photo, All Rights Reserved
Canada House Manitoba Room photos via The Canada House

RG Painting & Construction, Inc. is Santa Barbara’s trusted local favorite for warm, high-quality home remodels. As a licensed general contractor with all trades in-house, we help homeowners reimagine their spaces with thoughtful design, durable materials, and craftsmanship that fits the Santa Barbara and Montecito lifestyle. We understand local homes, coastal weather, and the character that makes each property unique, and we remodel with care, intention, and long-lasting quality.
Our home remodeling services include:
• Full home remodels, interior and exterior renovations, and complete property updates
• Kitchen remodeling, layout redesigns, cabinetry, countertops, and custom finishes
• Bathroom remodeling with tile, stone, walk-in showers, and spa-inspired upgrades
• Exterior home remodels, painting, stucco repair, siding, and curb-appeal improvements
• Drywall, carpentry, trim work, and custom wood details
• Lighting upgrades, electrical improvements, and minor plumbing corrections
• Window and door installation, energy-efficient updates, and coastal protection
• Permitting, inspections, project planning, and full remodel management
Why Santa Barbara homeowners feel comfortable choosing us:
• Local, family-run company with roots in the community
• One in-house team handling every step for a smoother, faster remodel
• Warm communication, honest budgeting, and clear expectations
• Meticulous preparation, clean work sites, and respectful crews
• Beautiful, lasting craftsmanship designed for Santa Barbara’s coastal climate
Whether you’re updating an older Santa Barbara home, refreshing a Montecito property, or transforming a space that no longer fits your lifestyle, we approach every remodel with care and pride. Our goal is to make the process feel easy, organized, and enjoyable while delivering a home you love coming back to every day.
Serving Santa Barbara, Montecito, Hope Ranch, Goleta, Mission Canyon, the Riviera, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
The peaceful parental oasis that was well deserved for this hardworking household consists of many luxurious details, some obvious and some not so much. First a little extra insulation in the walls, in the efforts of sound-dampening, silence goes a long way in the search for serenity. A personal fireplace with remote control makes sleeping in on chilly winter weekends a dream come true. Last, but certainly not least is the Master Bath. A stone surround enclave with an elevated soaker tub, bay window and hidden flat-screen tv are the centerpiece here. The enclave is flanked by double vanities, each with separate countertops and storage (marble and custom milled respectively) so daily routines are a breeze. The other highlights here include a full tile surround walk-in shower with separate wall-mounted shower heads and a central rainfall faucet. Lastly an 8 person sauna can be found just off the master bath, with a jacuzzi just outside. These elements together make a day relaxing at home almost indiscernible from a day at the spa.
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Example of a huge transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor, brown floor and vaulted ceiling open concept kitchen design in Nashville with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

A bathroom we designed to have an authentic farmhouse feeling with a little romance. It is very narrow, so we opened it up visually with a large mirror and lots of white paint. I designed the custom vanity, which was made locally by one of my highly skilled trades. This bathroom is over a garage, which makes the floors very cold in the winter. A runner rug keeps my bare feet warm and adds a bit of style.
Project designed by Star Valley, Wyoming interior design firm Tawna Allred Interiors. They also serve Alpine, Auburn, Bedford, Etna, Freedom, Freedom, Grover, Thayne, Turnerville, Swan Valley, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Designing the best modern garage doors is just the beginning. Dynamic Garage Door takes fine garage door design to the next level by providing exceptional door quality that will last a lifetime.
Contact our Design & Manufacturing Center: (855) 343-3667
When we approach a new project for our garage doors and/or gates we like to spend time with our clients to understand their current envisioned style and to collaborate on improving on their ideal or producing what others can't seem to accomplish.
This garage door and gate were designed to parallel the home's horizontal linear siding which was an accent wall the owner wrapped to add interest, depth and contrast to the once Mid Century ranch style house. He envisioned a modern home that stayed true to its unique style without throwing an out of balance project that would otherwise have turned outrageously huge. Dynamic Garage Door was commissioned to handcraft the garage door and gates around the property out of composite materials to incorporate the owner's ideal of building green.
The challenge with composite materials is that it is human nature to rely on the natural beauty of wood to soften modern materials such as steel, rock and harsher surfaces. Dynamic Garage Door has in-house artists that use high quality painting products and trade secret techniques to give our clients the best of both worlds.
Our modern garage doors offer modern design and usability while radiating that warm energy that radiates throughout a home in absence of real solid wood.
Dynamic Garage Door has design and manufacturing options that make our garage doors different to the rest!

Established in 1895 as a warehouse for the spice trade, 481 Washington was built to last. With its 25-inch-thick base and enchanting Beaux Arts facade, this regal structure later housed a thriving Hudson Square printing company. After an impeccable renovation, the magnificent loft building’s original arched windows and exquisite cornice remain a testament to the grandeur of days past. Perfectly anchored between Soho and Tribeca, Spice Warehouse has been converted into 12 spacious full-floor lofts that seamlessly fuse Old World character with modern convenience. Steps from the Hudson River, Spice Warehouse is within walking distance of renowned restaurants, famed art galleries, specialty shops and boutiques. With its golden sunsets and outstanding facilities, this is the ideal destination for those seeking the tranquil pleasures of the Hudson River waterfront.
Expansive private floor residences were designed to be both versatile and functional, each with 3 to 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a home office. Several residences enjoy dramatic Hudson River views.
This open space has been designed to accommodate a perfect Tribeca city lifestyle for entertaining, relaxing and working.
This living room design reflects a tailored “old world” look, respecting the original features of the Spice Warehouse. With its high ceilings, arched windows, original brick wall and iron columns, this space is a testament of ancient time and old world elegance.
The master bathroom was designed with tradition in mind and a taste for old elegance. it is fitted with a fabulous walk in glass shower and a deep soaking tub.
The pedestal soaking tub and Italian carrera marble metal legs, double custom sinks balance classic style and modern flair.
The chosen tiles are a combination of carrera marble subway tiles and hexagonal floor tiles to create a simple yet luxurious look.
Photography: Francis Augustine

This Mid-Century home had been updated except for the kitchen and master bath. After a few years of being empty nesters, and with the neighborhood turning over drastically to infill property in the millions, this couple decided the time was right to update the last remaining rooms.
Starting in the Kitchen
Taking a dark, u-shaped kitchen out of the past and updating it for the future, was a dream come true for this family. They knew what they wanted in order to entertain their large extended family, which included their three kids; plus, his family, consisting of nine children, spouses, and now grandchildren. Requirements of an open space to hang out and help out, a banquet for food presentation without obstruction, bright and clean, easy storage, a place for her mother’s china decanters, and an instant hot for tea were all part of the “must haves” for this kitchen. We also needed to work around the homeowners’ existing appliances since many of them were practically new.
Vaulted ceilings, lots of high windows, and large openings to other spaces in the house, were challenges that only a galley style kitchen could address. Blending and lacing the hardwood floor with new flooring required both the new and existing to be sanded down and refinished. This provided a coherent look to the entire first floor of this home. Matching casings, baseboards and base shoe helped to make the updates look fresh, but original to the house.
In the kitchen, choosing the sandstone slate finish on our Wellborn Maple select series cabinets kept the space soft; but really opened it, making the space lighter and brighter. The Harmony style door choice blended with the décor in the rest of the house, while also giving straight clean lines the homeowner desired. Grounding the row of cabinets with their refrigerator and a pantry cabinet, gave symmetry to this side of the kitchen.
On the opposite side, a built-in pantry cabinet mirrors the refrigerator. A row of drawer cabinets expanded the storage and banquet space, to lay out food for entertaining. Also added were some much-needed wall cabinets with glass inserts to mirror the windows and keep the space open. This also allowed the taller canister to be displayed and admired. A few smaller shelves were added above the window space, to house the smaller canisters so loved by the homeowner.
An artist by trade, this homeowner added two narrow cabinets to the side of the pantry and the side of the refrigerator panel to house and create easy access to the various spices her husband loves to use while cooking. She painted them to blend with Wellborn’s Sandstone finish. The Caesarstone countertop with a 3cm eased edge in London Gray has a small pattern that is subtle and interesting. Cutting down the Caesarstone to 2 cm and carrying the same London Gray pattern up the backsplash area, lended to the clean lines and easy cleaning this homeowner requested.
Choosing chrome plumbing fixtures from Moen’s Brantford line is timeless choice. Chrome is always popular and yet in today’s market, also very trendy. The Brantford faucet has a pull-down spray and one side handle, leaving space for the all-important request of a Transcape hot water dispenser, also in chrome.
Scraping away the past included smoothing out the popcorn ceiling. Adding LED slope cans to the vaulted ceilings provided the necessary task lighting to elevate these homeowners’ joy of cooking. Removing the dated “popcorn look” enhanced the clean and spacious feel created by the architecture of the ceiling. Adding Top Knob chrome hardware was the final element that tied the kitchen all together.
Master Bathroom
The original dated Master Bathroom had dark cabinets, a huge Jacuzzi tub and a small shower stall that provided barely enough room for even a child to shower. Removing the Jacuzzi tub that was never used, opened this floor plan to a grand shower that is comfortable and spacious. For easy cleaning, these homeowners opted for a panel system in their shower. Onyx shower walls with a shower seat and recess wide shower caddy were installed in place of the old Jacuzzi style tub.
The large panels were quite a challenge for our team, with an eight foot door and vaulted ceilings; but they were determined not to have a seam. These seamless panels are beautiful and very easy to clean. Keeping with the original floor plan, a double sink vanity from Wellborn’s select line with the Harmony door style in a pebble finish was installed. New Kohler Caxton under mount sinks were installed, along with the Moen Kinsley 8” wide spread faucets in chrome. Matching Kingsley 18” grab bars were added to the shower area, along with the Kohler Brantford fixed shower head and handheld slide bar.
The countertop was a beautiful Caesarstone in Frosty Carrina with an eased edge and 4” back and side splash. Matching Kinsley towel hooks were added, along with mirrors the homeowner purchased and we installed for her. Top Knobs chrome cabinet hardware finished the look along with a beautiful tile floor AO Mira 1224-S Silver Maple laid in a broken joint pattern. Matching marble sills were added on top of the knee walls and threshold in the doorway. A 3/8” frameless custom shower door with fixed panels surrounded the shower creating an open airy feel to the space.
Not shown: Kohler’s Wellworth highline toilet with a slow-close seat replaces the original toilet. The original shower stall became a space used to house a stackable washer and dryer, a top a safety pan and drain to slop sink in the basement. There was even enough room for small shelving to provide storage for laundry essentials. Adding a louver door keeps the laundry area behind the scene and opens the master area to multiple tasks needed.
Master Bedroom Fireplace
This homeowner really missed a bedroom fireplace they had in a previous home. Since we were going to be working on their master bathroom anyway; was there a way to create a fireplace without making it feel too odd in their large bedroom area? They had purchased a ventless gas fireplace and they had their original television as well.
Challenged by windows, a vaulted ceiling and the natural light streaming from the back window; this divided wall was created, keeping the lighting from the other side of the room and providing a dressing area opposite the fireplace. This was a perfect idea since the closets are now in the dressing area and the creative wall houses the fireplace and TV for cold winter nights of snuggling to a movie. Better yet, the fireplace and TV are all on remote control!

“Courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden PlantFinder”
'Dardom' cultivar of Hydrangea arborescens usually sold as White Dome.
Design ideas for a landscaping in St Louis.
Design ideas for a landscaping in St Louis.

The Willow - Transitional Family Home on Acreage in Brush Prairie, Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
Lastly, the style. Shabby Chic (chique) was a trend favorited early on by these clients. We wanted to create a space that used similar elements in materials and construction while allowing their style to play out over interior walls. On the outside this amounted to over 200 square feet of Eldorado Stone’s stacked stone, giving the façade giving the exterior a strong, natural and rustic feel. The stone is additionally used in the rear of the home as well, to frame an outdoor family living area equipped with a full outdoor kitchen. On the interior, their style translated into many accents. Antique wall sconces. Reclaimed wood. Wrought iron fixtures. Ornate woodwork. And old-world stylings of modern furniture. That idea is evidenced in pieces like their mud-bench in the second entryway. The hyperfunctional mud-bench is made of dark, unfinished natural wood stained to match an adjacent tongue and groove ceiling.
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Custom, luxurious window treatments which have been tailored to the highest standards are a particular speciality for Grunberger Interiors.
The market is filled with bland, cookie cutter fabric and trim offerings provided by retailers who are salespeople first and designers second. The results are boring and uninspired, and all too often leave the homeowner feeling that something's still missing in their home's design.
Window treatments are so much more than a means to gain privacy and light filtration. Whilst this is very important, before you rush to cover up your windows, you should instead be thinking about how these coverings could be an important vehicle to realize your home's potential and make a powerful design statement.
My approach is to always think out of the box to develop fabric design schemes that are truly unique and eye catching. They tell a story of who you are and what you love. You won't find these selections and combinations at your local store. Your home's decor will shine and your experience of your spaces will be enhanced.
The process begins with my window treatment and soft furnishings consultation, which is a comprehensive design working design session filled with exiting ideas, inspiration and solutions. I bring a bespoke tray of carefully curated fabrics, trims, and wallpaper - your introduction to a world of possibilities.
After a design direction has been established, I will source beautiful fabrics and trims from a variety of trade resources, including the prestigious D&D building in Manhattan.
We shall reconvene and have an enjoyable, creative exchange of ideas and determine the perfect design scheme for each room. Professional measuring, frequent liaison with my bespoke workroom to ensure that every last detail has been addressed, followed by expert installation completes the design process.

At RG Painting & Construction, Inc., we bring over 20 years of hands-on experience to every project.
As a locally owned Santa Barbara contractor, we don’t rely on random subcontractors or pass your project around. We manage everything with a consistent, trusted team so you get a smoother process and better results from start to finish.
What that means for you:
-One point of contact — clear communication the entire time
-A reliable, experienced team — not crews you’ve never met
-Quality workmanship that lasts — no shortcuts or patchwork fixes
-A more seamless, less stressful experience overall
We handle everything in-house and with trusted trades, so your project is done efficiently, correctly, and with attention to detail at every stage.
Services include:
Residential and commercial painting
Kitchen and bathroom remodeling
Whole-home renovations
Electrical, plumbing, and framing
Drywall, flooring, and finish work
Window and door replacements
Energy-efficient upgrades and insulation
Water damage and restoration
And More!!!

The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but the dining room is where the family gathers to enjoy special occasions, create and pass on traditions, and savour each other’s company free from distractions. The family behind this particular dining room enjoys doing just that.
When they are not traveling the world, Matthew and Anna (names changed) love to cook meals at home with their teenage daughter, entertain family and friends, and live amongst their cherished travel souvenirs and heirlooms. Their dining room, however, was far from the perfect backdrop for these experiences.
Before: Dining Room:
When Matthew and Anna contacted us, they imagined a space that would comfortably seat 8 to 10 people and incorporate their beautiful inherited dining table and sideboard in a fresh, modern way. Above all, they wanted a dining room that they would feel proud to share.
They worked with us to design, lightly renovate, and furnish their dining room and adjacent living space. Now, the room is nothing short of inviting and elevated.
Classic Yet Contemporary Dining Room:
Viewed from the living area, the dining room is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Matthew and Anna wanted dark blue for the walls, and we couldn’t have been happier to find the perfect shade for them. By leaning darker, this rich blue creates the perception of depth, making the room feel enticing, comfortable and secluded.
The previous built-ins were underwhelming and lacked function, so we designed wider, taller, double sided cabinets that integrated the existing bulk-head, and then accessorized the shelves with the family’s travel finds, books, and decor. Topping these units with brass art lights not only blends contemporary and traditional styles, it also draws attention to the dining table’s modern show-stopping chandelier. You can’t miss it.
Inside the dining room, the effect is equally impressive: enveloping yet spacious, warm yet cool, classic yet contemporary. We incorporated their heirloom pieces seamlessly into the design thanks to the 1:2 ratio. For every traditional piece, we introduced two more modern or contemporary pieces — clean lines, subtle curves, and lustrous brass hardware. The result is a collected yet updated look.
In any room with dark walls, lighting is of the utmost importance. We placed a mirror adjacent to the window to reflect natural light throughout the room, and we kept the trim and ceiling white for brightness. To provide maximum versatility, we provided multiple light sources that can be adjusted to create different levels of light to suit any mood or occasion. These include: pot lights and a chandelier on dimmers, a sculptural trilight lamp on the sideboard, and art lights on the bookcases and above important art pieces.
The built-ins have another surprise waiting inside this special dining room:
Double-sided built-ins: dining room shelving and living room shelving.
Rather than keep them white like we did in the living room, we painted the back wall of the book cases the same dark blue as the walls in the rest of the room. This reduces the contrast with the surrounding walls and emphasizes the white outline of the cabinets. We also love the dark blue walls’ role as a beautiful backdrop for this family’s treasures. The brass accessories and hand-painted vases and bowls feel like part of the experience.
Of course, what is beauty without function? It may not look like it, but the base storage is only accessible from the dining room side. The units include deep cabinets for storing serving ware, as well as another delightful surprise: silverware drawers lined in luxurious navy velvet!
Lastly, we designed this beautiful nook for their heirloom sideboard. From afar, the wall looks as if it has texture and perhaps a touch of shine. Up close, you will notice that it is actually navy blue wallpaper with tiny golden dots. This unique touch accentuates the brass in the room touches throughout the space.. The room feels curated, contemporary, and full of character.
Words of Praise:
Anna and Matthew were thrilled with their new dining room and with the design process itself, which is always the highest compliment. They said:
“Working with Lori and her team at Simply Home Decorating was a great experience. The design they came up with was both beautiful and practical for our family. Renovations can be stressful but working with Simply Home made the process much more pleasant.
“Simply Home's project management and their longstanding relationships with reliable trades meant we could relax, knowing that everything was taken care of. If an issue arose, the entire Simply Home team was quick to address it. They were excellent at communicating with us—we never felt like we didn't know what was going on. We would highly recommend working with Simply Home Decorating.”
Thank you, Matthew and Anna! We are honoured to have been part of your journey and wish your family many happy memories in these new spaces.
Now, is it your turn? Are you ready to uncover the hidden potential in your home? If so, contact us here to start the conversation or download my guide Uncovering the Hidden Potential in Your Home below to learn more about what we can do for you.

Their Kitchen Remodel
Siene & Kentay’s tired kitchen needed some attention. The large and heavy stone covered hood vent paired with the dark stained cabinets sucked the life and light out of the room.
One thing that struggled was lighting. Even with the walls of windows the dark features just absorbed the light.
We started by using a soft white shaker cabinet called Dove White as the main cabinet color in the kitchen. We removed the stone from the hood and the dark slate from the backsplash.
We also removed the dated shape of the peninsula by squaring it off. By doing this, the new walking area improved and allows for transitioning between rooms.
The oddly shaped island in the center struggled to give them the storage they needed. They were large cabinets, but items usually got stuck or lost.
After determining that Siene wanted to prepare food here, we opted to do deep drawer cabinets to store a lot of her prep items at arm’s reach.
The Island and bar cabinets are in a natural stain called Fawn. This color complimented the existing slate flooring. We also lined the hood in trim that matches the island.
The island is also waterfalled on both sides with quartz from Arizona Tile called Ivory White Honed.
Kitchen getting remodeled before & after photo
Kitchen being remodeled before and after photo
Just off the kitchen there was a bar, however it was hidden from all rooms. We decided that we would move the bar to a more prominent place in the home, and the existing would be turned into an appliance pantry.
A place for the coffee maker, microwave, and other smaller appliance storage.
We finished the kitchen with a simple backsplash in a lantern white mosaic with a natural tan grout. The door hardware, faucet from Delta and the new pendant lighting are all in the stainless family allowing for depth and consistency.
The new bar features a Sub-Zero wine column with refrigerated storage below. The upper lit glass cabinets offer a chance to showcase stemware and spirits.
This custom cabinet install allows the wood to shine and offers storage.
Lastly, the additional lighting installed in all areas now is controllable. Siene and Kentay have full control and can direct the light and how much is used.
When they want a night in, they can turn down the lights and relax. In their new updated family room in front of a newly integrated modern fireplace.
Kitchen getting renovated before and after photo
Laundry Room Remodeling
Jokingly, Siene called her Laundry Room the Christmas Box. We traded the red and green wallpaper for paint called Drift of Mist from Sherwin Williams.
The new white cabinetry offers a lot of storage they are , and a dedicated folding station was integrated for easy transitioning between loads of laundry.
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