Hive Modular
Inspiration for a contemporary dark wood floor great room remodel in Toronto with white walls

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Photography: Eric Roth Photo

Example of a trendy galley eat-in kitchen design in Auckland with metallic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and marble countertops

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.

In this historic space, the window wall, which had been painted, now has a translucent window film on the reverse side. No longer a gloomy and looming wall, the window wall architecture now can shine. The bedroom had already included this desk and chair, but the accessories and mirror and lamp were relocated from other parts of the Virginia Suite. A new leatherette desk pad was added. The new decoupaged wastebasket brings in the flora of Virginia. An antique oriental rug rests on the refinished hardwood floor. Walls, trim and ceilings were repainted in stronger colors, for greater contrast. Room design and redesign by Linda H. Bassert, Masterworks Window Fashions & Design, LLC. Photography by Bob Narod, Photographer, LLC.

Example of a mid-sized trendy formal and open concept travertine floor living room design in San Francisco with white walls, no fireplace and no tv

When the Gimbels department store chain closed in 1986, many of its selling floors were converted into luxury apartments, including those of this branch at 86th Street and Lexington Avenue. The retailer’s soaring ceilings allowed Axis Mundi to create bedroom mezzanine spaces overlooking the living and dining rooms. Defining them with translucent glass welcomed natural light while retaining privacy. Downstairs, spaces bleed one into another, their basic monochromatic black-and-white palette acting as a unifying leitmotif. Yet each space feels distinct, with its own programmatic purpose, a feat largely achieved by varying floor and wall treatments—a graphic tile pattern in the entry, a red wall in the hall leading to the master suite, a colorful area rug in the living room. In the retailer’s heyday, the then-common saying, “Would Macy’s tell Gimbels?” implied the strategies the competitors kept from each other to gain the upper hand. Here, a structure iconic in its day also conceals something: a handsome, wholly contemporary repurposing that represents just the sort of innovation that made Gimbels the celebrated name that it was.

Brian Vanden Brink
This is an example of a large rustic screened-in side porch design in Portland Maine with a roof extension.

Donovan Witmer
Example of a transitional kitchen design in Philadelphia

This interior design project was customizing a condominium unit to the taste of the new owners, while respecting the budget and priorities thereof. First, the existing bathroom on the mezzanine was enlarged across the width of the room to incorporate a large freestanding bath in the center of a generous and relaxing space. Large translucent sliding doors and an interior window have been added to let as much natural light into space as possible. The bath is highlighted by a wall of wooden slats backlit. All of the bathroom furniture and the new doors and windows were made by a cabinetmaker in the same colors as the slatted wall in order to unify these elements throughout the dwelling. At the entrance, in front of the kitchen, a column of classic inspiration has been replaced by a structural piece of furniture that divides the two spaces while incorporating additional storage and decorative alcoves. Near the ceiling of the cathedral space, a new tinted window allows natural light to enter the skylights at the top of the previously dark office.

The window wall with paint removed, and new translucent window films installed. Original historic bathroom fixtures in the Virginia Suite Bathroom. New custom painted stripe above the marble on the lower portion of the walls. New two-light wall sconces and new LED lighting in the upper portion of the window wall. New oriental rug. Custom painted stripe design, and room redesign by Linda H. Bassert, Masterworks Window Fashions & Design, LLC. Stripe painted by Martinez Painting. Photography by Bob Narod, Photographer, LLC.

Client hired Morse Remodeling to design and construct this newly purchased home with large lot so that they could move their family with young children in. It was a full gut, addition and entire renovation of this 1960's ranch style home. The house is situated in a neighborhood which has seen many whole house upgrades and renovations. The original plan consisted of a living room, family room, and galley kitchen. These were all renovated and combined into one large open great room. A master suite addition was added to the back of the home behind the garage. A full service laundry room was added near the garage with a large walk in pantry near the kitchen. Design, Build, and Enjoy!

SKP Design has completed a frame up renovation of a 1956 Spartan Imperial Mansion. We combined historic elements, modern elements and industrial touches to reimagine this vintage camper which is now the showroom for our new line of business called Ready To Roll. http://www.skpdesign.com/spartan-imperial-mansion You'll see a spectrum of materials, from high end Lumicor translucent door panels to curtains from Walmart. We invested in commercial LVT wood plank flooring which needs to perform and last 20+ years but saved on decor items that we might want to change in a few years. Other materials include a corrugated galvanized ceiling, stained wall paneling, and a contemporary spacious IKEA kitchen. Vintage finds include an orange chenille bedspread from the Netherlands, an antique typewriter cart from Katydid's in South Haven, a 1950's Westinghouse refrigerator and the original Spartan serial number tag displayed on the wall inside. Photography: Casey Spring

Example of a large transitional master gray tile and stone tile marble floor freestanding bathtub design in Oklahoma City with an undermount sink, a two-piece toilet, gray walls, flat-panel cabinets and dark wood cabinets

This interior design project was customizing a condominium unit to the taste of the new owners, while respecting the budget and priorities thereof. First, the existing bathroom on the mezzanine was enlarged across the width of the room to incorporate a large freestanding bath in the center of a generous and relaxing space. Large translucent sliding doors and an interior window have been added to let as much natural light into space as possible. The bath is highlighted by a wall of wooden slats backlit. All of the bathroom furniture and the new doors and windows were made by a cabinetmaker in the same colors as the slatted wall in order to unify these elements throughout the dwelling. At the entrance, in front of the kitchen, a column of classic inspiration has been replaced by a structural piece of furniture that divides the two spaces while incorporating additional storage and decorative alcoves. Near the ceiling of the cathedral space, a new tinted window allows natural light to enter the skylights at the top of the previously dark office.

This dark, dreary kitchen was large, but not being used well. The family of 7 had outgrown the limited storage and experienced traffic bottlenecks when in the kitchen together. A bright, cheerful and more functional kitchen was desired, as well as a new pantry space. We gutted the kitchen and closed off the landing through the door to the garage to create a new pantry. A frosted glass pocket door eliminates door swing issues. In the pantry, a small access door opens to the garage so groceries can be loaded easily. Grey wood-look tile was laid everywhere. We replaced the small window and added a 6’x4’ window, instantly adding tons of natural light. A modern motorized sheer roller shade helps control early morning glare. Three free-floating shelves are to the right of the window for favorite décor and collectables. White, ceiling-height cabinets surround the room. The full-overlay doors keep the look seamless. Double dishwashers, double ovens and a double refrigerator are essentials for this busy, large family. An induction cooktop was chosen for energy efficiency, child safety, and reliability in cooking. An appliance garage and a mixer lift house the much-used small appliances. An ice maker and beverage center were added to the side wall cabinet bank. The microwave and TV are hidden but have easy access. The inspiration for the room was an exclusive glass mosaic tile. The large island is a glossy classic blue. White quartz countertops feature small flecks of silver. Plus, the stainless metal accent was even added to the toe kick! Upper cabinet, under-cabinet and pendant ambient lighting, all on dimmers, was added and every light (even ceiling lights) is LED for energy efficiency. White-on-white modern counter stools are easy to clean. Plus, throughout the room, strategically placed USB outlets give tidy charging options.

This interior design project was customizing a condominium unit to the taste of the new owners, while respecting the budget and priorities thereof. First, the existing bathroom on the mezzanine was enlarged across the width of the room to incorporate a large freestanding bath in the center of a generous and relaxing space. Large translucent sliding doors and an interior window have been added to let as much natural light into space as possible. The bath is highlighted by a wall of wooden slats backlit. All of the bathroom furniture and the new doors and windows were made by a cabinetmaker in the same colors as the slatted wall in order to unify these elements throughout the dwelling. At the entrance, in front of the kitchen, a column of classic inspiration has been replaced by a structural piece of furniture that divides the two spaces while incorporating additional storage and decorative alcoves. Near the ceiling of the cathedral space, a new tinted window allows natural light to enter the skylights at the top of the previously dark office.

LBL Lighting produces decorative low-voltage pendants and heads, line-voltage pendants, modernist chandeliers, Murano glass ceiling suspensions, bath and wall sconces, and sleek contemporary outdoor fixtures. Mouth-blown glass finishes include iridescent, millefiore, frit, silver leaf, crackle, seeded and reflective. Also featured are fixtures incorporating Swarovski crystal elements.

Client hired Morse Remodeling to design and construct this newly purchased home with large lot so that they could move their family with young children in. It was a full gut, addition and entire renovation of this 1960's ranch style home. The house is situated in a neighborhood which has seen many whole house upgrades and renovations. The original plan consisted of a living room, family room, and galley kitchen. These were all renovated and combined into one large open great room. A master suite addition was added to the back of the home behind the garage. A full service laundry room was added near the garage with a large walk in pantry near the kitchen. Design, Build, and Enjoy!