Urban Diversions brings to life the true meaning of bringing the outdoors in, creating a warm inviting atmosphere. We pulled two cedar trees out of the river, roots and all, stripped them with potato peelers, cut the roots level to the floor so they would free stand and dyed them a faint green so as to appear alive. Furnished the room with panoramic settings to enjoy both the indoors and out. This space affords our client an infinite view of nature at its best. Photo credit goes to Bill Milne of Milne Studios NY.

2012 NARI CAPITAL COTY, FINALIST AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL EXTERIOR UNDER $100,000 The outdoor life means the world to this couple and their three children in Springfield, Virginia. Sports and having friends over are a big part of their lives so having a nice outdoor living space off their home is very important. Unfortunately, the home they purchased had not only a small, crumbling deck, but the backyard landscaping left much to be desired. The main objectives of their outdoor living renovation were to be able to have a large enough patio, deck and screen porch so they could all be outside enjoying their own activities at the same time. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, the homeowners decided to add a large deck on the right side of the back of the house and a 20’ x 20’ octagonal screen porch on the left side. In order not to interfere with windows and the placement of utilities on the lower level, the Michael Nash team created a brick walkway which leads to double sided stairways. Maintenance-free decking and accessories are used throughout. A high cathedral ceiling with beaded panels, recessed lights and a ceiling fan make the screened-in porch a family favorite. On the lower level, several trees were removed and the yard was graded level for a new flagstone patio with short stone seating walls. A bed for plants and flower with stone rocks was placed around the utility meters to create a more desirable appearance. The sound of kids playing soccer in backyard while dad is grilling and mom is relaxing on the deck is a dream come true for this family.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

Our carpenters labored every detail from chainsaws to the finest of chisels and brad nails to achieve this eclectic industrial design. This project was not about just putting two things together, it was about coming up with the best solutions to accomplish the overall vision. A true meeting of the minds was required around every turn to achieve "rough" in its most luxurious state. Featuring multiple Columbia Cabinet finishes; contrasting backsplashes, wall textures and flooring are all part of what makes this project so unique! Features include: Sharp microwave drawer, glass front wine fridge, fully integrated dishwasher, Blanco compost bin recessed into the counter, Walnut floating shelves, and barn house lighting. PhotographerLink

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Outdoor Living Features Contractor: Artisan Exteriors Producer: CST Pavers Designer: Joey Hafner Design: Slate pavers, in a rich Sierra Blend, coupled with Versa-Lok Standard wall units to create multiple outdoor living spaces; masterfully meeting the entertainment requirements of the homeowner. Pavers and wall units, through use of color and texture, provided both definition and an effortless flow – creating a true outdoor oasis. Quality of Construction and Craftsmanship: Expert workmanship is showcased in the precise paver and wall integration with the pool, spa and outdoor living features. Having a large entertainment space was a must for the homeowners, so the team carved out elevated areas to separate spaces for the pool deck, stage, spa and outdoor kitchen. Compatibility with Related Construction Materials and Systems: The pool and coping were in great condition but the existing aggregate concrete pool deck was dangerously damaged. Paver and wall units were selected to replace, complement and expand the outdoor living space. Curved steps, coming off the home’s morning room, were added for visual integration and a welcoming element. Construction Innovation: Vents and basement windows provided several obstacles to construction. To accommodate, designers opted to incorporate a raised patio on a pressure treated lumber frame and utilize the Silca System. To capitalize on the elevation, a portable spa was incorporated into the raised patio. Overall Excellence: What began as a refurbishment of an existing swimming pool; evolved into a total backyard transformation. Slate pavers and Versa-Lok wall units helped create an outdoor paradise for family and entertainment use with a new pool deck, raised fire pit, raised stage to host musicians, outdoor kitchen and more.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

We were excited to take on this master bathroom remodel for a young couple looking to update their recently purchased condo on the water in Playa Del Rey. They were looking for a modern version of the classic his and hers bathroom complete with double shower and colors inspired by the nearby Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of their building the master bathroom features a sky light allowing for natural light. The true double shower features a Kohler shower tower with built in body sprayers, hand held and dual shower heads. Unique to this design is that the double shower also features dual shower benches. There are even two shower niches to ensure that both sides are equal. Marble was used throughout the shower and bathroom. Above the commode is a floating toiletry cabinet mounted to the wall. All of the cabinetry is espresso. The bottom of the cabinet allows for open shelving. The his and hers vanities are separated by a full height center linen closet and drawers. Since wall space was at a premium, towel rings were mounted to the cabinetry and an integrated towel bar is on the shower door. Robe hooks hang on the glass shower walls. The walls of the bathroom are green with an accent tile separating the marble wainscoting. The accent tiles are an ocean themed blue / green mix. The bathroom is finished off with a pocket door.

Custom Home Built for Real Life Our clients came to us with a clear vision: a home that could adapt to their lifestyle and growing family. They needed a home built with intention, designed with the future in mind, and built around the routines they loved and the people they loved more. Open-Concept Living With Hosting in Mind Our clients hosted often and lived actively, so the main level had to be flexible for all of life’s moments. The goal was a space that felt grand without losing its warmth. Cooking together as a family mattered to our clients – the Wolf range, farmhouse sink, integrated appliances, and large island gave them a kitchen that flowed effortlessly while looking beautiful. This space also served as the bridge between other parts of the main level so that they would stay in view of the next. This created the perfect environment for gathering where everyone had their own spot without ever feeling apart from the whole group. For the living room, our clients wanted space that felt open without losing its warmth. Soaring ceilings created that sense of scale, while warm tones and materials, like the wood coffered ceiling and fireplace wall, kept it grounded. That same warmth carried outside, where an outdoor lounge with a fireplace and dining area made sure guests felt welcomed the moment they stepped out. A Backyard Built for Real Rest Every corner of the backyard was designed with one goal: to be the ultimate outdoor retreat. The elevated, white-brick-framed pool and integrated spa hot tub gave them a place to truly exhale. As the sun set, the fire pit lounge next to the pool became the hangout spot when they hosted their youth groups and family gatherings. Room to Grow With kids in the house, “custom” had to also mean flexible. Our clients had 2 young sons and needed their rooms to grow with them through the years. The two bedrooms and a full bath sat beside a loft that served as both their hangout-and-homework spot. The guest suite sat on the same level where a four-poster bed, floor-to-ceiling wood-look tile, and a frameless glass shower welcomed their guests from day one. A Retreat That’s Actually Theirs Between hosting and raising kids, this couple needed a suite that felt like a true escape. The wood-planked tray ceiling and French doors grounded the room in warmth the moment you walked in, while the ensuite bathroom carried a spa-like feeling with a freestanding soaking tub, custom double vanity, and a glass-enclosed shower. This Is What Approachable Luxury Looks Like The approachable luxury experience meant starting with conversations about how they wanted their space to live with them – how they hosted, how their kids played, how they wanted to feel walking through their own front door, and how we took their goals and experience and used it as the foundation of every decision that was made from start to finish. We wanted our clients to feel taken care of through the process and, most importantly, feel heard.

2018 HNA Awards Honorable Mention - Outdoor Living Features Contractor: Artisan Exteriors Producer: CST Pavers Designer: Joey Hafner Design: Slate pavers, in a rich Sierra Blend, coupled with Versa-Lok Standard wall units to create multiple outdoor living spaces; masterfully meeting the entertainment requirements of the homeowner. Pavers and wall units, through use of color and texture, provided both definition and an effortless flow – creating a true outdoor oasis. Quality of Construction and Craftsmanship: Expert workmanship is showcased in the precise paver and wall integration with the pool, spa and outdoor living features. Having a large entertainment space was a must for the homeowners, so the team carved out elevated areas to separate spaces for the pool deck, stage, spa and outdoor kitchen. Compatibility with Related Construction Materials and Systems: The pool and coping were in great condition but the existing aggregate concrete pool deck was dangerously damaged. Paver and wall units were selected to replace, complement and expand the outdoor living space. Curved steps, coming off the home’s morning room, were added for visual integration and a welcoming element. Construction Innovation: Vents and basement windows provided several obstacles to construction. To accommodate, designers opted to incorporate a raised patio on a pressure treated lumber frame and utilize the Silca System. To capitalize on the elevation, a portable spa was incorporated into the raised patio. Overall Excellence: What began as a refurbishment of an existing swimming pool; evolved into a total backyard transformation. Slate pavers and Versa-Lok wall units helped create an outdoor paradise for family and entertainment use with a new pool deck, raised fire pit, raised stage to host musicians, outdoor kitchen and more.

Karen and Chad of Tower Lakes, IL were tired of their unfinished basement functioning as nothing more than a storage area and depressing gym. They wanted to increase the livable square footage of their home with a cohesive finished basement design, while incorporating space for the kids and adults to hang out. “We wanted to make sure that upon renovating the basement, that we can have a place where we can spend time and watch movies, but also entertain and showcase the wine collection that we have,” Karen said. After a long search comparing many different remodeling companies, Karen and Chad found Advance Design Studio. They were drawn towards the unique “Common Sense Remodeling” process that simplifies the renovation experience into predictable steps focused on customer satisfaction. “There are so many other design/build companies, who may not have transparency, or a focused process in mind and I think that is what separated Advance Design Studio from the rest,” Karen said. Karen loved how designer Claudia Pop was able to take very high-level concepts, “non-negotiable items” and implement them in the initial 3D drawings. Claudia and Project Manager DJ Yurik kept the couple in constant communication through the project. “Claudia was very receptive to the ideas we had, but she was also very good at infusing her own points and thoughts, she was very responsive, and we had an open line of communication,” Karen said. A very important part of the basement renovation for the couple was the home gym and sauna. The “high-end hotel” look and feel of the openly blended work out area is both highly functional and beautiful to look at. The home sauna gives them a place to relax after a long day of work or a tough workout. “The gym was a very important feature for us,” Karen said. “And I think (Advance Design) did a very great job in not only making the gym a functional area, but also an aesthetic point in our basement”. An extremely unique wow-factor in this basement is the walk in glass wine cellar that elegantly displays Karen and Chad’s extensive wine collection. Immediate access to the stunning wet bar accompanies the wine cellar to make this basement a popular spot for friends and family. The custom-built wine bar brings together two natural elements; Calacatta Vicenza Quartz and thick distressed Black Walnut. Sophisticated yet warm Graphite Dura Supreme cabinetry provides contrast to the soft beige walls and the Calacatta Gold backsplash. An undermount sink across from the bar in a matching Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop adds functionality and convenience to the bar, while identical distressed walnut floating shelves add an interesting design element and increased storage. Rich true brown Rustic Oak hardwood floors soften and warm the space drawing all the areas together. Across from the bar is a comfortable living area perfect for the family to sit down at a watch a movie. A full bath completes this finished basement with a spacious walk-in shower, Cocoa Brown Dura Supreme vanity with Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop, a crisp white sink and a stainless-steel Voss faucet. Advance Design’s Common Sense process gives clients the opportunity to walk through the basement renovation process one step at a time, in a completely predictable and controlled environment. “Everything was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to it’s full potential,” Karen said. Constantly striving for customer satisfaction, Advance Design’s success is heavily reliant upon happy clients referring their friends and family. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a remodeling project small or large,” Karen exclaimed at the completion of her project.