Example of a farmhouse garage design in New York

Our clients were inspired by the idea of a master bedroom with beautiful, functional closet space, and a larger shower – more so than there loathed 36″ x 36″ corner acrylic unit. After a number of visits, a plan was devised to build 3 closet areas, and a large shower with a floating quartz bench. The bedroom would see a dividing wall, but not to the ceiling so light could come through. The biggest of the three closets would be closest to the window, with a room entirely devoted to that space. The floor in the bathroom would feature a heated flooring system, and the vanity would have backlight lighting on the mirror. The demolition uncovered some surprises, which restricted certain locations of plumbing, so the shower was enlarged and one of the closets was scrapped. In the end, it worked out fantastic. More emphasis was placed on the open concept closet, which thrilled our clients. They were also not disappointed with their larger shower. Photo Aristea Photography

Every home improvement project can feel like going into battle, but the sweet taste of victory is enough to make it worthwhile. If you ever feel intimidated by homes and gardens in magazines, don’t fret – you can turn your home into a beautiful beacon with easy curb appeal updates! Kevin and Annette Klingel are some of our favorite weekend warriors, and their latest project proves that anything is possible when it comes to dressing up your front garden. The Klingels recently gave their home and front garden a major renovation and entered their photos in the Window Box Contest. When we saw the gorgeous before and after pictures, we knew we had to get the inside scoop on their process and uncover their best curb appeal ideas. Curb Appeal – Before and After Before the renovation, the Klingels had a charming South Bend, Indiana rambler that was tidy and traditional, if a little unassuming. Deciding it was time for a much-needed update, the Klingels replaced their old green roof with a black barrel roof to match the style of their home. They also made a needed replacement and changed out the sidewalk and front stoop to a new version in classic black. After those dramatic changes, the Klingels just couldn’t stop! Loving the contrast between the new black roof and stoop and their cream house, they painted their shutters black. And here’s where we come in – Annette wanted to incorporate her love of flowers into the new home design and found the perfect planters and window boxes to match the shutters. They purchased ten black window boxes in a classic and chic design to put around their outside windows. The Klingels also used tall black planters around the entrance to the house. The window boxes and planters each received the same plant treatment – red, yellow, and orange impatiens with flowing ferns for a bright punch of color. Paired with hanging baskets and a few other accents, the Klingels house is now a masterpiece. From Drab to Fab The Klingels love their warm and inviting new front entrance, and the neighbors do too. Instead of getting overlooked, their house now stands out and is the star of their busy street, where it is seen by lots of people everyday. They have received tons of compliments about their new look – a crisp and clean front garden that stays true to the style of the home and neighborhood. The Klingels’ curb appeal update wasn’t without its challenges, but the end product is amazing, and as Annette says, definitely worth the time. The Klingels recommend starting with the necessary replacements and finding beautiful matching pieces to add curb appeal. With a little patience, elbow grease, and the help of a great garden supply store like Hooks & Lattice, you too can have the home of your dreams. Photos: Kevin & Annette Klingel

Inspiration for a large rustic backyard patio remodel in Denver with a fire pit, decking and a gazebo

The new back deck features a large outdoor kitchen. Photo: Vance Fox
Example of a huge eclectic backyard outdoor kitchen deck design with no cover

The pavilion we designed and installed provides a shady location to relax on a sunny day, and also creates a distinct space for an outdoor living room.

An exterior, comprised of craftsman and traditional elements, blending together for a beautifully stunning elevation. On the front, a covered porch wraps around and connects to a gorgeous hand framed covered entry that creates a perfect place to relax on those lovely days. If the porch is not enough, the back offers a large covered patio and an uncovered space for entertaining and barbecuing. Inside, the main area is flooded with an abundance of natural light coupled with the 10' ceilings and 11' coffered tray in the living creating a warm and welcome feel. The master bedroom is spacious and the master bath offers a walk in shower with dual heads for added comfort and style.

Gorgeous multi-level outdoor living room and kitchen to host large family gatherings and parties! Spacious and clean built to look original to the home. Extensions of the current smaller patio without looking like an "add-on." We added 900 sq ft of outdoor living space. 600 sf covered, and 300 sf uncovered. We built matching stucco beams, columns and skirt walls. We used wrought iron and powercoated railing, travertine tile and matching travertine paversm stained T&G pine ceiling, White Springs 3 cm granite and RCS Cutlass Pro II grill and doors. The curve design of the front rail and the 12' ceiling height (17' from the ground) makes for a very grand living experience. Photo Credit: TK Images

Gorgeous multi-level outdoor living room and kitchen to host large family gatherings and parties! Spacious and clean built to look original to the home. Extensions of the current smaller patio without looking like an "add-on." We added 900 sq ft of outdoor living space. 600 sf covered, and 300 sf uncovered. We built matching stucco beams, columns and skirt walls. We used wrought iron and powercoated railing, travertine tile and matching travertine paversm stained T&G pine ceiling, White Springs 3 cm granite and RCS Cutlass Pro II grill and doors. The curve design of the front rail and the 12' ceiling height (17' from the ground) makes for a very grand living experience. Photo Credit: TK Images

Budget Blinds blackout roller shades, photo credit installer Adam Brannick
Example of a mid-sized transitional guest bedroom design in Cedar Rapids with gray walls and no fireplace

This front porch was captured by Unique Media and Design.
Mid-sized transitional concrete front porch photo with a roof extension

3 deep drawers with extra wide frames house spices and other necessities near the range. Hardware by Schaub & Co.
Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in New York

This beautiful brick wall complemented by sturdy wood reclaimed shelves gives this attic bathroom into an inviting earthy feel.
Example of a mid-sized mountain style 3/4 brown tile brown floor double shower design in New York with a one-piece toilet, gray walls, an undermount sink, a hinged shower door, white countertops, furniture-like cabinets and brown cabinets

An exterior, comprised of craftsman and traditional elements, blending together for a beautifully stunning elevation. On the front, a covered porch wraps around and connects to a gorgeous hand framed covered entry that creates a perfect place to relax on those lovely days. If the porch is not enough, the back offers a large covered patio and an uncovered space for entertaining and barbecuing. Inside, the main area is flooded with an abundance of natural light coupled with the 10' ceilings and 11' coffered tray in the living creating a warm and welcome feel. The master bedroom is spacious and the master bath offers a walk in shower with dual heads for added comfort and style.

NSPJ Architects / Cathy Kudelko
Transitional exterior home photo in Kansas City

Joel Riner Photography
Example of a transitional exterior home design in Seattle

We wanted to feature this private residence because of the deep emotional connection our client had to the space. Her father grew up in the house. In fact, as many as three generations had lived in the house before her, and she was excited to do gut renovations, but anxious about the changes she was making – not just to the home, but to the preservation of her family's past. One of the ways we worked with this client was to uncover ways to a more modern space and design, but hold on to various touches and nods to the past. For example, all of the finishes we used belonged to her grandparents – original stonework on the fireplace, entryway stone, even the original colors were preserved in certain rooms, while making it more updated.

Our clients were inspired by the idea of a master bedroom with beautiful, functional closet space, and a larger shower – more so than there loathed 36″ x 36″ corner acrylic unit. After a number of visits, a plan was devised to build 3 closet areas, and a large shower with a floating quartz bench. The bedroom would see a dividing wall, but not to the ceiling so light could come through. The biggest of the three closets would be closest to the window, with a room entirely devoted to that space. The floor in the bathroom would feature a heated flooring system, and the vanity would have backlight lighting on the mirror. The demolition uncovered some surprises, which restricted certain locations of plumbing, so the shower was enlarged and one of the closets was scrapped. In the end, it worked out fantastic. More emphasis was placed on the open concept closet, which thrilled our clients. They were also not disappointed with their larger shower. Photo Aristea Photography

"An entry to a space where traditions are made and loved ones gather to share their life experiences." We designed this space for a family that desired a beautiful dining room to complete their home decor. The rustic dining table reveals their casual warmth and at the same time the double crystal chandeliers uncover their refined taste for a touch of elegance. The walls are adorned in tradition with the light creamy wall covering while the deep accents in the artwork and accessories keep the eye engaged in a place of comfort. Custom designed by Hartley and Hill Design. All materials and furnishings in this space are available through Hartley and Hill Design. www.hartleyandhilldesign.com 888-639-0639