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.

Designed by: TOC design - Tania Scardellato Construction by : TOC design & Construction inc. Pictures by: Mathieu Laflamme Patricia and David came to me with a dilemma, they could not sell their small home situated In the heart of Westmount. The ground floor was poorly divided, the kitchen was so small and closed in, every room on the ground floor felt like a small cave. So they made the right decision and turned to professionals. When I first spoke with Patricia over the phone I immediately had great feeling about her and her lovely husband David. This couple knew what they wanted, they were well informed and opened to ideas and suggestions. I came up with 3 preliminaries and from there designed a forth. Once they saw my Renderings I could see that spark in their eyes, That’s when I knew that we were all on the same page. The architectural drawings where completed as well as the millwork shop drawings. The estimates where accurate and all materials choices fit perfectly with their style. We began Construction mid February . Patricia and David left for Florida but I did not want to leave them with any surprises during the construction stage, We Skyped every week and although we had some structural, electrical and plumbing issues. The project advanced nicely. As the weeks came to an end I could see How happy they were. WE completed this extensive renovation in 8 weeks on time and under budget. A+ to the TOC design & Construction inc. team Once Patricia and David settled into their new space and after I staged it for them, I asked, “ so are you still planning on moving?” to no surprise they are staying and loving there new renovated ground floor.

Designed by: TOC design - Tania Scardellato Construction by : TOC design & Construction inc. Pictures by: Mathieu Laflamme Patricia and David came to me with a dilemma, they could not sell their small home situated In the heart of Westmount. The ground floor was poorly divided, the kitchen was so small and closed in, every room on the ground floor felt like a small cave. So they made the right decision and turned to professionals. When I first spoke with Patricia over the phone I immediately had great feeling about her and her lovely husband David. This couple knew what they wanted, they were well informed and opened to ideas and suggestions. I came up with 3 preliminaries and from there designed a forth. Once they saw my Renderings I could see that spark in their eyes, That’s when I knew that we were all on the same page. The architectural drawings where completed as well as the millwork shop drawings. The estimates where accurate and all materials choices fit perfectly with their style. We began Construction mid February . Patricia and David left for Florida but I did not want to leave them with any surprises during the construction stage, We Skyped every week and although we had some structural, electrical and plumbing issues. The project advanced nicely. As the weeks came to an end I could see How happy they were. WE completed this extensive renovation in 8 weeks on time and under budget. A+ to the TOC design & Construction inc. team Once Patricia and David settled into their new space and after I staged it for them, I asked, “ so are you still planning on moving?” to no surprise they are staying and loving there new renovated ground floor.

This new luxurious shower panel has just newly arrived to North America and it is one of the best shower panels you can find in the market. It qualifies under the ISO-9001 standard, which can only be acquired by products that went through strict quality control and product inspection. The body of the shower panel is made of high quality stainless steel & tempered glass, and comes with an overhead rainfall shower, a multi-functional handheld showerhead, 8 body massage nozzles, and a tub spout. Two controllers are added to control the functions and water temperature. By buying this unique and lavishing shower panel, you would be able to enjoy a higher level of showering experience after everyday’s hard work! * Item Size: 52"H x 10"W x 3.5”D (132 x 26 x 9cm) * Package Size: 55”H x 13”W x 8”D (138 x 33 x 19cm) * Gross Weight 32lbs * Includes a rainfall showerhead, a multi-functional handheld showerhead, a tub spout, 8 adjustable body nozzles, and temperature display * Shower panel frame is made of high quality stainless steel * 5mm blue color tempered glass surface * Lightweight and durable * Unique design for flat wall installation * Comes with chrome-plated brass hose * Standard 1/2” plumbing connection * Hot/Cold water hose of shower panel will be connected to water pipe fitting directly * Reinforced pipes on back * Temperature display is powered by hydro or AA battery * The minimum pressure required is 28 psi and maximum pressure required 72 psi * Offer 1 year limited parts warranty from the date of purchase * All functions work independently to ensure proper water pressure * Easy installation, come with all standard installation accessories * In stock and ship out in 1-2 business days If there are any questions regarding this item or if you have any issues after purchase, please feel free to contact us and we are more than happy to assist you!

As written in Northern Home & Cottage by Elizabeth Edwards Sara and Paul Matthews call their head-turning home, located in a sweet neighborhood just up the hill from downtown Petoskey, “a very human story.” Indeed it is. Sara and her husband, Paul, have a special-needs son as well as an energetic middle-school daughter. This home has an answer for everyone. Located down the street from the school, it is ideally situated for their daughter and a self-contained apartment off the great room accommodates all their son’s needs while giving his caretakers privacy—and the family theirs. The Matthews began the building process by taking their thoughts and needs to Stephanie Baldwin and her team at Edgewater Design Group. Beyond the above considerations, they wanted their new home to be low maintenance and to stand out architecturally, “But not so much that anyone would complain that it didn’t work in our neighborhood,” says Sara. “We were thrilled that Edgewater listened to us and were able to give us a unique-looking house that is meeting all our needs.” Lombardy LLC built this handsome home with Paul working alongside the construction crew throughout the project. The low maintenance exterior is a cutting-edge blend of stacked stone, black corrugated steel, black framed windows and Douglas fir soffits—elements that add up to an organic contemporary look. The use of black steel, including interior beams and the staircase system, lend an industrial vibe that is courtesy of the Matthews’ friend Dan Mello of Trimet Industries in Traverse City. The couple first met Dan, a metal fabricator, a number of years ago, right around the time they found out that their then two-year-old son would never be able to walk. After the couple explained to Dan that they couldn’t find a solution for a child who wasn’t big enough for a wheelchair, he designed a comfortable, rolling chair that was just perfect. They still use it. The couple’s gratitude for the chair resulted in a trusting relationship with Dan, so it was natural for them to welcome his talents into their home-building process. A maple floor finished to bring out all of its color-tones envelops the room in warmth. Alder doors and trim and a Doug fir ceiling reflect that warmth. Clearstory windows and floor-to-ceiling window banks fill the space with light—and with views of the spacious grounds that will become a canvas for Paul, a retired landscaper. The couple’s vibrant art pieces play off against modernist furniture and lighting that is due to an inspired collaboration between Sara and interior designer Kelly Paulsen. “She was absolutely instrumental to the project,” Sara says. “I went through two designers before I finally found Kelly.” The open clean-lined kitchen, butler’s pantry outfitted with a beverage center and Miele coffee machine (that allows guests to wait on themselves when Sara is cooking), and an outdoor room that centers around a wood-burning fireplace, all make for easy, fabulous entertaining. A den just off the great room houses the big-screen television and Sara’s loom— making for relaxing evenings of weaving, game watching and togetherness. Tourgoers will leave understanding that this house is everything great design should be. Form following function—and solving very human issues with soul-soothing style.

What simply started out as the purchase of a 30” Wolf gas stove to replace the old, turned into a complete kitchen renovation. The original intent was to replace the existing stove with the new. The new Wolf came other issues one being installing an adequate exhaust system to meet the needs of the stove. One thing led to the next and with that a new kitchen. The renovation included removing all existing fixtures, cabinetry and lighting. The existing tile floor remained the same but with some added area that was previously under existing base cabinets. The goal of the project, once the decision was made to do a complete renovation, was to update the kitchen creating an eclectic aesthetic with all new fixtures of the best quality that could be afforded. Listed below are the changes that were made. All fixtures remained in their existing locations other than removing small piece of wall that allowed an extended length of the new bakers table to extend 24” into the existing dining and living room space to pull the spaces together and provide a small eating bar with adjoining bar stools. One stool was a custom design and fabrication (Marlin Stool) Fixtures 1. Existing gas stove replaced with new 30” gas Wolf stove. 2. Existing Refrigerator replace with new 36” stainless steel Jen-Air refrigerator with bottom freezer. 3. Existing Dishwasher replace with new Jen-Air stainless steel interior and exterior dishwasher. 4. Existing base cabinets replaced with a combination of open and closed tables and cabinets. Two stainless steel commercial kitchen tables with an open bases and shelving. One with a stainless steel top the other a bakers table with a wood butcher block top. The cabinets were Kraft Made traditional wood base cabinets with a Kaffe finish and Fireslate counter surface. These cabinets were customized with stainless steel perforated door inserts and Mockett stainless steel drawer and door pulls. 5. Surface counter and table material included wood butcher block, stainless steel and Fireslate. 6. Overhead shelving included open commercial kitchen stainless steel shelves and open Appleply wood shelves with Rakks aluminum shelf brackets. 7. Existing lighting was replaced with Zumtobel track lighting with Ushio lamps, Lutron dimmers and an up lighted coffered ceiling (see Superman). 8. Existing kitchen sink was replaced with a large single compartment sink from Kindred with an In-Sinkerator Evolution garbage disposal. Filter water tap was added that connects to an Everprue water filter system. 9. Walls were tiled with Bottle Green 4 1/4” x 4 1/4” Daltile to staying consistent with existing original house tile. 10. The ceiling was reworked as required with a plaster finish 11. Marine grade caulk was used as required. 12. A soffit with up lighting was added to the periphery of kitchen facing the adjoining living and dining rooms. 13. Silver Masonite peg board storage wall adjacent to refrigerator. Credits: • Little Pete the Parakeet.....for being there • Catalina Aguirre.....pots • Many Friends....pots • David D’Imperio.....Sputnik lamp • Jose Maria Concha Sali.....painting • Ron Meyers.....Plates on wall • Bill Sanders.....Bunny screen painting • William Hoffman....Beverly lamp • William Hoffman.....marlin stool • William Hoffman.....Gulfstream side chair • William Hoffman.....Gulfstream dining table • William Hoffman.....5 from 1 plywood chair Problems • A custom fabricated exhaust duct was required due to existing soffit framing conditions. • The ceiling was not parallel to the floor so the intended full wall tile installation was held short of the ceiling. • Return Air duct to A/C air handler required relocation Project cost • +/- $22,000 Fixtures, materials and appliances Selection of fixtures, materials and fixtures were made based on quality, aesthetic and cost. Extensive research was done to find the best quality at a price point that was affordable. Items that were splurged on were the Wolf stove and Jen-Air refrigerator and dishwasher and the Zumtobel lighting Bill Sanders Photography

This new luxurious shower panel is one of the best shower panels you can find in the market. It qualifies under the ISO-9001 standard, which can only be acquired by products that went through strict quality control and product inspection. The body of the shower panel is made of high quality aluminum alloy. It comes with several functions, including an overhead shower, a multi-functional hand-held showerhead, 8 body massage nozzles, and a tub spout. Two controllers are added to control the functions and water temperature. By buying this unique and lavishing shower panel, you would be able to enjoy a higher level of showering experience after everyday’s hard work! * Item Size: 132 x 26 x 9cm (52"H x 10"W x 3.5”D) * Package Size: 138 x 33 x 19cm (55”H x 13”W x 8”D) * Gross Weight 32lbs * Includes a rainfall shower head, a multi-functional handheld showerhead, a tub spout, 8 adjustable body nozzles, and temperature display * Shower panel frame is made of aluminum alloy * 5mm mirror like tempered glass surface * Lightweight and durable * Unique massage panel is designed for flat wall installation * Comes with chrome-plated brass hose * Standard plumbing connection * Hose of shower panel will be connected to water pipe fitting directly * Reinforced pipes on back * Temperature display is powered by battery * The minimum pressure required is 28 psi and maximum pressure required 72 psi * Offer 1 year limited parts warranty from the date of purchase * All functions work independently to ensure proper water pressure * Easy installation, come with all standard installation accessories * In stock and ship out in 1-2 business days If there are any questions regarding this item or if you have any issues after purchase, please feel free to contact us and we are more than happy to assist you!

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 new luxurious shower panel has just newly arrived to North America and it is one of the best shower panels you can find in the market. It qualifies under the ISO-9001 standard, which can only be acquired by products that went through strict quality control and product inspection. The body of the shower panel is made of high quality aluminum alloy and it comes with several functions, including an overhead shower, a hand-held showerhead, 8 body massage nozzles, and a tub spout. Two controllers are added to control the functions and water temperature. By buying this unique and lavishing shower panel, you would be able to enjoy a higher level of showering experience after everyday's hard work! * Item Size: 52"H x 10"W x 3.5"D (132 x 26 x 9cm) * Package Size: 55"H x 13"W x 8"D (138 x 33 x 19cm) * Gross Weight 32lbs * Includes a rainfall shower head, a handheld showerhead, a tub spout, 8 adjustable body nozzles, and temperature display * Shower panel frame is made of aluminum alloy * 5mm mirror like tempered glass surface * Lightweight and durable * Unique massage panel is designed for flat wall installation * Comes with chrome-plated brass hose * Standard 1/2" plumbing connection * Hot/Cold water hose of shower panel will be connected to water pipe fitting directly * Reinforced pipes on back * Temperature display is powered by AA battery * The minimum pressure required is 28 psi and maximum pressure required 72 psi * Offer 1 year part warranty * All functions work independently to ensure proper water pressure * Easy installation, come with all standard installation accessories * In stock and ship out in 1-2 business days If there are any questions regarding this item or if you have any issues after purchase, please feel free to contact us and we are more than happy to assist you!

This new luxurious shower panel is one of the best shower panels you can find in the market. It qualifies under the ISO-9001 standard, which can only be acquired by products that went through strict quality control and product inspection. The body of the shower panel is made of high quality aluminum alloy. It comes with several functions, including an overhead shower, a multi-functional hand-held showerhead, 8 body massage nozzles, and a tub spout. Two controllers are added to control the functions and water temperature. By buying this unique and lavishing shower panel, you would be able to enjoy a higher level of showering experience after everyday’s hard work! * Item Size: 132 x 26 x 9cm (52"H x 10"W x 3.5”D) * Package Size: 138 x 33 x 19cm (55”H x 13”W x 8”D) * Gross Weight 32lbs * Includes a rainfall shower head, a multi-functional handheld showerhead, a tub spout, 8 adjustable body nozzles, and temperature display * Shower panel frame is made of aluminum alloy * 5mm mirror like tempered glass surface * Lightweight and durable * Unique massage panel is designed for flat wall installation * Comes with chrome-plated brass hose * Standard plumbing connection * Hose of shower panel will be connected to water pipe fitting directly * Reinforced pipes on back * Temperature display is powered by battery * The minimum pressure required is 28 psi and maximum pressure required 72 psi * Offer 1 year limited parts warranty from the date of purchase * All functions work independently to ensure proper water pressure * Easy installation, come with all standard installation accessories * In stock and ship out in 1-2 business days If there are any questions regarding this item or if you have any issues after purchase, please feel free to contact us and we are more than happy to assist you!

Lauren Edith Andersen
Inspiration for a 1960s home design remodel in Seattle

A 1929 urban Bungalow well preserved save for the kitchen. The kitchen had been twice remodeled – most recently in the 1970’s by previous homeowners. Our clients wished to restore the original Craftsman-era charm to their kitchen (which adjoined the dining room and was visible from the front entry). At the same time, our clients were looking to increase the functionality of the kitchen space and create additional seating for frequent dinner guests. Our clients’ tight budget restricted the finish pallet to rather simple options, but that simplicity became the project’s strength. Custom cabinets (using FSC-certified maple) were designed with simple flat panel doors and fabricated using dove-tail joinery as was typical of Bungalow cabinetry. Red oak, stained to match the home’s original millwork was used to construct the cabinet lowers and a new bench to create continuity with the remainder of the home. Carrara marble, authentic to the 1920s period, was used to aesthetically brighten the space. Cabinet uppers were enameled in a historically appropriate cream hue to compliment the countertop stone. The backsplash tile was selected to pay tribute to the home’s original 1929 wall color – found beneath several layers of wallpaper during demolition. Walls were painted a bold, but historically, accurate, copper color (a perfect compliment the red oak cabinetry and trim). Lighting issues in this north-facing kitchen were addressed using hidden over-cabinet lights, task-specific under-cabinet lighting, sink cans and several period fixtures – hand fashioned by a local artisan specializing in historic reproductions to complete the bungalow look and honor the Arts-n-Crafts practice of using local craftsman. Simple and practical…in budget and in period. To solve the seating issue, a new bench (with storage below) was custom built to span the 12’ dining room wall – allowing plenty of room for family and guests alike during dinner. The larger kitchen approach provided room for a new serve-through with counter seating where snacks, homework, and spill-over food prep can occur. No new square footage… six new seats! To solve storage needs, the base cabinets in the kitchen were designed 3” deeper than standard 24” box cabinets and a new 28” deep pantry added allowing some of the wasted space at the center of this square kitchen to be used more efficiently. A tall backsplash capped with a 4” ledge provides a place for all of the inevitable items that clutter valuable counter real estate (cooking timers, seasoning jars, etc …) Specialized, task-specific storage - the highlight of Bungalow kitchens - was incorporated throughout: 1) An angled cabinet, built to accommodate an awkward side door location, now holds a trash can, tin-lined recycling bins, and a knife drawer; 2) A difficult deep corner necessitated by the 28” deep fridge gave rise to open cookbook shelves, an appliance cubby and narrow, and a deep pantry with full-extension roll-out trays; 3) An open pot & pan rack, built-in wall spice cabinet, kid-height microwave (a special request from our clients), customized cell-phone/electronics storage, built-in chalk board message center, and new rear entry coat/backpack storage with cork board complete the net storage gain. No new square footage … lots of new, innovative, high-functioning storage.

This new luxurious shower panel is one of the best shower panels you can find in the market. It qualifies under the ISO-9001 standard, which can only be acquired by products that went through strict quality control and product inspection. The body of the shower panel is made of high quality aluminum alloy. It comes with several functions, including an overhead shower, a multi-functional hand-held showerhead, 8 body massage nozzles, and a tub spout. Two controllers are added to control the functions and water temperature. By buying this unique and lavishing shower panel, you would be able to enjoy a higher level of showering experience after everyday’s hard work! * Item Size: 132 x 26 x 9cm (52"H x 10"W x 3.5”D) * Package Size: 138 x 33 x 19cm (55”H x 13”W x 8”D) * Gross Weight 32lbs * Includes a rainfall shower head, a multi-functional handheld showerhead, a tub spout, 8 adjustable body nozzles, and temperature display * Shower panel frame is made of aluminum alloy * 5mm mirror like tempered glass surface * Lightweight and durable * Unique massage panel is designed for flat wall installation * Comes with chrome-plated brass hose * Standard plumbing connection * Hose of shower panel will be connected to water pipe fitting directly * Reinforced pipes on back * Temperature display is powered by battery * The minimum pressure required is 28 psi and maximum pressure required 72 psi * Offer 1 year limited parts warranty from the date of purchase * All functions work independently to ensure proper water pressure * Easy installation, come with all standard installation accessories * In stock and ship out in 1-2 business days If there are any questions regarding this item or if you have any issues after purchase, please feel free to contact us and we are more than happy to assist you!

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 new luxurious shower panel is one of the best shower panels you can find in the market. It qualifies under the ISO-9001 standard, which can only be acquired by products that went through strict quality control and product inspection. The body of the shower panel is made of high quality aluminum alloy. It comes with several functions, including an overhead shower, a multi-functional hand-held showerhead, 8 body massage nozzles, and a tub spout. Two controllers are added to control the functions and water temperature. By buying this unique and lavishing shower panel, you would be able to enjoy a higher level of showering experience after everyday’s hard work! * Item Size: 132 x 26 x 9cm (52"H x 10"W x 3.5”D) * Package Size: 138 x 33 x 19cm (55”H x 13”W x 8”D) * Gross Weight 32lbs * Includes a rainfall shower head, a multi-functional handheld showerhead, a tub spout, 8 adjustable body nozzles, and temperature display * Shower panel frame is made of aluminum alloy * 5mm mirror like tempered glass surface * Lightweight and durable * Unique massage panel is designed for flat wall installation * Comes with chrome-plated brass hose * Standard plumbing connection * Hose of shower panel will be connected to water pipe fitting directly * Reinforced pipes on back * Temperature display is powered by battery * The minimum pressure required is 28 psi and maximum pressure required 72 psi * Offer 1 year limited parts warranty from the date of purchase * All functions work independently to ensure proper water pressure * Easy installation, come with all standard installation accessories * In stock and ship out in 1-2 business days If there are any questions regarding this item or if you have any issues after purchase, please feel free to contact us and we are more than happy to assist you!

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.

Our approach to the dining room wall was a key decision for the entire project. The wall was load bearing and the homeowners considered only removing half of it. In the end, keeping the overall open concept design was important to the homeowners, therefore we installed a load bearing beam in the ceiling. The beam was finished with drywall to be cohesive so it looked like it was a part of the original design. Now that the kitchen and dining room were open, paint colors were used to designate the spaces and create visual boundaries. This made each area feel like it’s its own space without using any structures. The original L-shaped kitchen was cut short because of bay windows that overlooked the backyard patio. These windows were lost in the space and not functional; they were replaced with double French doors leading onto the patio. A brick layer was brought in to patch up the window swap and now it looks like the French doors always existed. New crown molding was installed throughout and painted to match the kitchen cabinets. This window/door replacement allowed for a large pantry cabinet to be installed next to the refrigerator which was not in the old cabinet configuration. The replaced perimeter cabinets host custom storage solutions, like a mixer stand, spice organization, recycling center and functional corner cabinet with pull out shelving. The perimeter kitchen cabinets are painted with a glaze and the island is a cherry stain with glaze to amplify the raised panel door style. We tripled the size of the kitchen island to expand countertop space. It seats five people and hosts charging stations for the family’s busy lifestyle. It was important that the cooktop in the island had a built in downdraft system because the homeowners did not want a ventilation hood in the center of the kitchen because it would obscure the open concept design. The countertops are quartz and feature an under mount granite composite kitchen sink with a low divide center. The kitchen faucet, which features hands free and touch technology, and an instant hot water dispenser were added for convenience because of the homeowners’ busy lifestyle. The backsplash is a favorite, with a teal and red glass mosaic basket weave design. It stands out and holds its own among the expansive kitchen cabinets. All recessed, under cabinet and decorative lights were installed on dimmer switches to allow the homeowners to adjust the lighting in each space of the project. All exterior and interior door hardware, hinges and knobs were replaced in oil rubbed bronze to match the dark stain throughout the space. The entire first floor remodel project uses 12x24 ceramic tile laid in a herringbone pattern. Since tile is typically cold, the flooring was also heated from below. This will also help with the homeowners’ original heating issues. When accessorizing the kitchen, we used functional, everyday items the homeowners use like cutting boards, canisters for dry goods and place settings on the island. Ultimately, this project transformed their small, outdated kitchen into an expansive and functional workspace.

September 21st is the first day of Fall. I know we don’t want to think about it yet, but it is good to prepare and get the chimney swept early. Why? According to the Farmer’s Almanac, they are predicting a colder and snowier Winter. But you say, “eh, I got a gas fireplace.” Better yet, “I don’t use my fireplace, so why should I sweep it, and clean it early?” Let’s discuss why all types of chimneys and fireplaces need to be swept. Why Do All Types of Chimney’s and Fireplaces Need to Be Swept? When we think of the fireplace, we picture the real wood burning fireplace with the sounds of crackling wood. With regular use of the wood-burning fireplaces, a byproduct called creosote forms and over time, lines the side of the chimney flue. This needs to be swept at least once per year as creosote is flammable. However, all chimney’s, regardless of whether it burns wood or utilizes gas, needs to be professionally inspected and swept annually. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that a gas or unused chimney is immune to problems since it doesn't produce a byproduct. However, these chimney systems face their own unique dangers. Gas fireplaces, especially those that are high-efficiency, can lead to the buildup of corrosive deposits. Over time, these deposits can degrade your chimney liner. Getting it inspected by a certified chimney technician will control this issue so it doesn’t turn into a problem. 4 Key Reasons to Prioritize Your Annual Chimney Inspection The annual chimney inspection is more than just a sweep; it’s a comprehensive health check for your entire chimney system. We call it the 14 Point Inspection. A certified chimney technician will look for: 1. Fire Hazards: Again, for wood-burning chimneys, the removal of creosote is important to prevent a chimney fire. Gas fireplaces release corrosive deposits. If you don’t use the fireplace, you never know what debris may have settled in. If you want to use the fireplace, please be sure to have it professionally inspected and swept before use. 2. Obstructions: There’s a whole world outside of your home, and especially in the Fall, our little friends are searching for a warm place to stay. Your chimney looks pretty good. And, let’s not forget how the wind in the Chicagoland are does a great job of moving debris around that can get up and under the chimney cap or directly into the chimney if you don’t have a cap. These blockages need to be cleared for you and your home’s protection. 3. Structural Damage: A chimney technician will be able to spot cracks, water damage, or deterioration of the chimney and chimney liner that could compromise the system's safety. 4. Ventilation Issues: Ventilation is key for your home to breathe. The certified chimney technician will ensure proper draft and airflow, which is the best way to get rid of toxic gases. NFPA Remember, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection for all chimney types. This simple, proactive maintenance can save you from costly repairs. Don't wait for a problem to become obvious. Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349 to schedule a 14-Point Chimney inspection to ensure your home and family are protected.

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.