Ryan Ocasio
Open concept kitchen - mid-sized transitional galley light wood floor and beige floor open concept kitchen idea in Chicago with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

It is not uncommon for down2earth interior design to be tasked with the challenge of combining an existing kitchen and dining room into one open space that is great for communal cooking and entertaining. But what happens when that request is only the beginning? In this kitchen, our clients had big dreams for their space that went well beyond opening up the plan and included flow, organization, a timeless aesthetic, and partnering with local vendors. Although the family wanted all the modern conveniences afforded them by a total kitchen renovation, they also wanted it to look timeless and fit in with the aesthetic of their 100 year old home. So all design decisions were made with an eye towards timelessness, from the profile of the cabinet doors, to the handmade backsplash tiles, to the choice of soapstone for countertops, which is a beautiful material that is naturally heat resistant. The soapstone was strategically positioned so that the most stunning veins would be on display across the island top and on the wall behind the cooktop. Even the green color of the cabinet, and the subtle green-greys of the trim were specifically chosen for their softness so they will not look stark or trendy in this classic home. To address issues of flow, the clients really analyzed how they cook, entertain, and eat. We went well beyond the typical “kitchen triangle” to make sure all the hot spots of the kitchen were in the most functional locations within the space. Once we located the “big moves” we really dug down into the details. Some noteworthy ones include a whole wall of deep pantries with pull outs so all food storage is in one place, knives stored in a drawer right over the cutting boards, trash located right behind the sink, and pots, pans, cookie sheets located right by the oven, and a pullout for the Kitchenaid mixer. There are also pullouts that serve as dedicated storage next to the oven for oils, spices, and utensils, and a microwave located in the island which will facilitate aging in place if that becomes an objective in the future. A broom and cleaning supply storage closet at the top of the basement stairs coordinates with the kitchen cabinets so it will look nice if on view, or it can be hidden behind barn doors that tuck just a bit behind the oven. Storage for platters and a bar are located near the dining room so they will be on hand for entertaining. As a couple deeply invested in their local community, it was important to the homeowners to work with as many local vendors as possible. From flooring to woodwork to tile to countertops, choosing the right materials to make this project come together was a real collaborative effort. Their close community connections also inspired these empty nesters to stay in their home and update it to their needs, rather than relocating. The space can now accommodate their growing family that might consist of children’s spouses, grandkids, and furry friends alike.

Bellweather Construction, LLC is a trained and certified remodeling and home improvement general contractor that specializes in period-appropriate renovations and energy efficiency improvements. Bellweather's managing partner, William Giesey, has over 20 years of experience providing construction management and design services for high-quality home renovations in Philadelphia and its Main Line suburbs. Will is a BPI-certified building analyst, NARI-certified kitchen and bath remodeler, and active member of his local NARI chapter. He is the acting chairman of a local historical commission and has participated in award-winning restoration and historic preservation projects. His work has been showcased on home tours and featured in magazines.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

Ryan Ocasio
Example of a mid-sized transitional galley light wood floor and beige floor open concept kitchen design in Chicago with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

Ryan Ocasio
Open concept kitchen - mid-sized transitional galley light wood floor and beige floor open concept kitchen idea in Chicago with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, stone slab backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

This trendy Herringbone pattern is matched with a rustic-looking wood to create vintage charm in the modern home. CAP Carpet & Flooring is the leading provider of flooring & area rugs in the Twin Cities. CAP Carpet & Flooring is a locally owned and operated company, and we pride ourselves on helping our customers feel welcome from the moment they walk in the door. We are your neighbors. We work and live in your community and understand your needs. You can expect the very best personal service on every visit to CAP Carpet & Flooring and value and warranties on every flooring purchase. Our design team has worked with homeowners, contractors and builders who expect the best. With over 30 years combined experience in the design industry, Angela, Sandy, Sunnie,Maria, Caryn and Megan will be able to help whether you are in the process of building, remodeling, or re-doing. Our design team prides itself on being well versed and knowledgeable on all the up to date products and trends in the floor covering industry as well as countertops, paint and window treatments. Their passion and knowledge is abundant, and we're confident you'll be nothing short of impressed with their expertise and professionalism. When you love your job, it shows: the enthusiasm and energy our design team has harnessed will bring out the best in your project. Make CAP Carpet & Flooring your first stop when considering any type of home improvement project- we are happy to help you every single step of the way.

This La Jolla condo went from plain jane to super stylish in a flash! Custom local artists and photographers paired with a custom Simply Stunning Spaces sectional, shag wool rug, exquisite modern light fixtures with a trendy fun edge. The outdoor living space was made to feel like an extension of the interior. Nestled on the busy oceanfront walk of Wind n Sea, this patio is a show stopper! Clean, modern, coastal with a pop of feminine & trendy.

Ryan Ocasio
Foyer - mid-sized transitional light wood floor and beige floor foyer idea in Chicago with white walls