Location: Port Townsend, Washington. Photography by Dale Lang
Mid-sized trendy master white tile and subway tile ceramic tile walk-in shower photo in Seattle with a two-piece toilet, white walls and an undermount sink

The must-haves were a space that felt integrated with the home’s interior renovations, which provided a cook zone, living space, and a pool big enough to play water games. And of course, some much needed sun protection. Before, the original two decks were constructed to take in the view, one on top of the other off the back of the house. The 2nd story deck opened directly off the master bedroom. But these clients didn’t really use their bedroom as living space; they didn’t hang out on the deck either. Crucially though, the decks were way too tall and shallow; the sun could easily reach the sitting at most times of day, heating the space to uncomfortable temperatures. photography by Tre Dunham 2018

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This client was referred to us from a past client. They are a busy 2-career household with young children and enjoy entertaining friends and family in their home. They have a beautiful open concept home but unfortunately the kitchen was not fitting for the rest of the home. They were not quite sure what to do with the space. We talked about trying to refresh it or do more of a minor remodel, but in the end they decided a full gut would get them to where they wanted to be. One problem was there was no place for guests to hang out other than the large and awkward banquette area. The brick wall and tiled hood area were feeling a bit dated and tired. The space was just not functional for their lifestyle. There was no prep space near the cooktop and no landing area for items coming out of the ovens or refrigerator, plus a big dead zone in the center of the room. Banquettes, like the one they previously had in the space, are great for small spaces, but when they get really large like this one, it makes getting in and out of the seating area awkward and uncomfortable. Plus, there was room for a large table, so we eliminated the awkward built in. We started by removing the faux brick wall between the kitchen and back entry. We relocated the entry to the garage over a couple feet in order to get every last inch out of the new kitchen. We also made the decision to close up the primary window that faced the pretty ho hum brick wall of the neighbor’s house. There was plenty of light coming in from the seating area, so we just didn’t feel the window was adding much to the room. Construction went smoothy. There was a bit of rework with electrical, flooring and HVAC, but in the end, we think it was well worth it. The clients really wanted a sleek contemporary look, and we originally had planned for a full height slab backsplash, but due to it’s size, it was a budget buster. Instead, we got creative and settled on large format porcelain tiles that have a similar feel but were a fraction of the cost. We made sure the wall was plumb and level so that the fit and finish would mimic that of slab material. The final space was quite a change. A large prep sink sits directly across from the new pro-style range with plenty additional prep space on the large island. The refrigerator and ovens now have miles of landing space, and a nice tight work triangle makes cooking a breeze. Since we wanted a more contemporary feel, not many wall cabinets were included. Instead, we outfitted some of the drawers for dish storage with a peg system. Two large pantries flanking the refrigerator hold baking supplies and small appliances. Large drawers by the cooktop hold pots and pans, and an appliance garage tucked away to the left of the range hides away miscellaneous items. The large island also houses a microwave drawer and tons of storage, most of which is drawers offering maximum convenience. The island now seats 5-6 people comfortably along with the new table in the seating area which can seat up to 8. Entertaining will be a breeze in this space. With such a clean backdrop, we knew we would need some drama with the lighting, so we chose two sets of staggered pendants, which we adjusted for the right visual balance above the island. We also included a small coffee station to the right of the main kitchen, which helps keep the coffee clutter out of the kitchen proper. Two tones of complimentary gray are featured in this kitchen. The perimeter is a light gray that reads almost white. The island is a gray stain that adds some depth and interest with the visible wood texture. The countertops are clean white quartz, and the hardware, barstools and light fixtures add warm brass tones. I see lots of cooking and entertaining with family and friends in the near future in this bright and airy new space. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Photo by Fredrik Brauer
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Photo: Vicki Bodine
Large country u-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in New York with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and marble countertops

This beautiful Arts and Crafts style home was built in 2008. The clients decided to move their existing furniture from their old home. The furniture was uncomfortable and the family found themselves gathering in the master bedroom with mom and dad. After years of using their master bedroom as the family’s central gathering place, the parents wanted to reclaim their master suite. New furniture and a large TV was needed to rejuvenate this family room; Arlene Ladegaard of Design Connection, Inc., was chosen for her classic styles and soothing fabrics and finishes. After creating a space plan, comfortable furniture was selected with warm, long-wearing fabrics. A soft, wool area rug set the colors and style for this large space. Accented with large nail heads, two swivel chairs in rich, brown, high quality leather provides additional seating with style. The large sectional was clothed in a soft, neutral-colored high-performance fabric that will stand the test of time. The large fabric ottoman was a new look for the clients and the size was perfect for their space. Linen window treatments in a sheer fabric softened the space and added balance and harmony. Design Connection Inc. interior Design Kansas City provided furniture layout and space planning, furniture and upholstery selections and window treatments.

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Spacious Mid-Century Modern dining room with a wooded view. Navy upholstered chairs accent wood table with angled legs.
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True artistry is displayed in this rug, which features bold color and intricate design. Let your eyes wander from line to line from the rug's fringe-adorned ends, and delight in its bright green hue. This handcrafted piece features a linear pattern that creates an elegant pattern that almost resembles a maze. Light beiges complement this rug's bright green backdrop for a cheerful, casual vibe. This rug brings playful personality to any room, and would be great for a bedroom, sunroom, or entryway. *This custom item has now been SOLD* **This item is available for customer order** Item Number: VO-8-13-2001 Collection: Vogue Size: 5.33x7.5 Material: Wool Knots: 5/5 Color: Green

Photos By Cadan Photography-Richard Cadan
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