Search results for "Underutilized" in Home Design Ideas

A classic Portland foursquare, lovingly owned by an active and lively family of four, had undergone some unfortunate previous renovations that were in desperate need of updating. A cramped kitchen layout, lacking countertop work space, non-functional appliance locations (the range was floating on it’s own!), cramped kitchen nook not large enough for eat-in space and therefor left underutilized, and a general lack of storage all needed to be addressed.
To increase functional space, we enclosed a small back porch and re-built the adjacent nook, folding in the square footage to create an expansive kitchen footprint. We relocated the back door and added a back deck while creating space for a mud bench for littles to tuck away their gear! The enlarged kitchen now boasts a extensive natural light thanks to the addition of several windows.
An easy work flow was created within the new kitchen layout featuring an in-island sink with range and hood flanked by matching windows. Custom cabinet accessories make storage a breeze and provide a space for all the necessities to be right at the homeowner’s fingertips. The eat-in kitchen space allows not only for lingering family chats, but homework and craft projects to be done while dinner simmers on the stove. This kitchen truly is the heart of this home!
All of the updates were completed with the home’s original foursquare architecture in mind. with a focus on classic architectural molding styles, traditional window details, and clean-lined classic fixtures. Youthfulness and modernity are infused into the space with the contemporary handmade tile backsplash, rich and timeless green cabinets, and artistic wallpaper with a whimsical floral print and subtle European nod. The custom range in cream and brass is a stunning showstopper and a testament that even the most functional of elements in a kitchen can still be beautiful! Which one is the star of the show? How do we pick just one?!

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

From unfinished and underutilized, to finished and a space for the entire family, this basement project was a true transformation. The basement is now seismic retrofitted, finished, and has reconfigured plumbing and ducting to allow for a more optimized floor plan.
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The shower of this primary bath has a tall built in niche to store all our client's shower needs. The walls are porcelain marble look tile and the trim and shelving of the niche are in the same engineered quartz as the vanity countertops.
A large bath felt crowded and underutilized the space available. By removing a large framed in tub and replacing it with a stunning freestanding tub with a wall mounted tub filler we freed up floor space both physically and visually. Stained wood vanities with beaded top drawers anchor the room.

The original home featured a dramatic two-story great room, but the layout no longer supported the family’s needs. With too few bedrooms and an undersized, outdated second-floor bathroom, the homeowners wanted a solution that would improve functionality, privacy, and comfort—without expanding the home’s footprint.
Our design approach focused on reclaiming underutilized vertical space while creating a refined, highly functional primary suite and enhancing key living areas throughout the home.

Two phases completed in 2020 & 2021 included kitchen and primary bath remodels. Bright, light, fresh and simple describe these beautiful spaces fit just for our clients.
The primary bath was a fun project to complete. A few must haves for this space were a place to incorporate the Peloton, more functional storage and a welcoming showering/bathing area.
The space was primarily left in the same configuration, but we were able to make it much more welcoming and efficient. The walk in shower has a small bench for storing large bottles and works as a perch for shaving legs. The entrance is doorless and allows for a nice open experience + the pebbled shower floor. The freestanding tub took the place of a huge built in tub deck creating a prefect space for Peleton next to the vanity. The vanity was freshened up with equal spacing for the dual sinks, a custom corner cabinet to house supplies and a charging station for sonicares and shaver. Lastly, the corner by the closet door was underutilized and we placed a storage chest w/ quartz countertop there.
The overall space included freshening up the paint/millwork in the primary bedroom.
Serving communities in: Clyde Hill, Medina, Beaux Arts, Juanita, Woodinville, Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue, Sammamish, Issaquah, Mercer Island, Mill Creek

For this project the house itself and the garage are the only original features on the property. In the front yard we created massive curb appeal by adding a new brick driveway, framed by lighted brick columns, with an offset parking space. A brick retaining wall and walkway lead visitors to the front door, while a low brick wall and crisp white pergola enhance a previous underutilized patio. Landscaping, sod, and lighting frame the house without distracting from its character.
In the back yard the driveway leads to an updated garage which received a new brick floor and air conditioning. The back of the house changed drastically with the seamless addition of a covered patio framed on one side by a trellis with inset stained glass opposite a brick fireplace. The live-edge cypress mantel provides the perfect place for decor. The travertine patio steps down to a rectangular pool, which features a swim jet and linear glass waterline tile. Again, the space includes all new landscaping, sod, and lighting to extend enjoyment of the space after dusk.
Photo by Craig O'Neal

Our homeowners have a love of all the bands and the music of days past, but they also share a love of new experiences and opportunities, which brings us to this amazing new open concept kitchen space we created for them in their home. This home had the traditional separate kitchen and dining room spaces which in most homes get underutilized. By joining both these spaces into one with the removal of a bearing wall separating the two, both space can now be used on a daily basis while giving the homeowner much more elbow room to entertain and prepare meals! We started with custom Benjamin Moore painted cabinetry and lovely quartz countertop surfaces. Luxury vinyl flooring was used throughout the main floor to add the softness and warmth of wood while maintaining an easy clean surface that does a great job of resisting wear in high traffic areas. A complimentary blue island really makes a statement, while the 3D textured backsplash really finishes things off nicely. Gold accents were also used to make things pop a little as well. The end result is really a beautiful transformation and one our homeowners will enjoy for many years to come!

The bar and dining room was underutilized before and now it is an incredible place for entertaining
Home design - modern home design idea in Other
Home design - modern home design idea in Other

This stunning kitchen remodel features a beautiful coastal blue island and gorgeous stainless steel appliances. The light gray finished cabinets and countertop play a great contrast to the dark flooring and give the space a coastal vibe.
This client wanted to update and enlarge her underutilized kitchen island and unify the great room and guest bath with her home and garden in a "Coastal Zen" theme.
In the kitchen, we added a beverage zone and wine refrigerator enlarged and improved the function and flow around the island. We also updated her fireplace mantle, bar, laundry and guest bath using understated neutrals to reflect her "Zen" mood.
We added a pop of blue at the island to add interest and contrast and to connect all to her coastal style and elements.

Small spaces can be transformed into creative entertainment areas that invite conversation. This Coronado courtyard received a face-lift, transforming an underutilized space into a thriving outdoor living room with a vertical garden. Learn more about vertical gardens here: http://ecomindedsolutions.com/living-walls-garden-san-diego/

Only a few minutes from the project to the Right (Another Minnetonka Finished Basement) this space was just as cluttered, dark, and underutilized.
Done in tandem with Landmark Remodeling, this space had a specific aesthetic: to be warm, with stained cabinetry, a gas fireplace, and a wet bar.
They also have a musically inclined son who needed a place for his drums and piano. We had ample space to accommodate everything they wanted.
We decided to move the existing laundry to another location, which allowed for a true bar space and two-fold, a dedicated laundry room with folding counter and utility closets.
The existing bathroom was one of the scariest we've seen, but we knew we could save it.
Overall the space was a huge transformation!
Photographer- Height Advantages

A classic Portland foursquare, lovingly owned by an active and lively family of four, had undergone some unfortunate previous renovations that were in desperate need of updating. A cramped kitchen layout, lacking countertop work space, non-functional appliance locations (the range was floating on it’s own!), cramped kitchen nook not large enough for eat-in space and therefor left underutilized, and a general lack of storage all needed to be addressed.
To increase functional space, we enclosed a small back porch and re-built the adjacent nook, folding in the square footage to create an expansive kitchen footprint. We relocated the back door and added a back deck while creating space for a mud bench for littles to tuck away their gear! The enlarged kitchen now boasts a extensive natural light thanks to the addition of several windows.
An easy work flow was created within the new kitchen layout featuring an in-island sink with range and hood flanked by matching windows. Custom cabinet accessories make storage a breeze and provide a space for all the necessities to be right at the homeowner’s fingertips. The eat-in kitchen space allows not only for lingering family chats, but homework and craft projects to be done while dinner simmers on the stove. This kitchen truly is the heart of this home!
All of the updates were completed with the home’s original foursquare architecture in mind. with a focus on classic architectural molding styles, traditional window details, and clean-lined classic fixtures. Youthfulness and modernity are infused into the space with the contemporary handmade tile backsplash, rich and timeless green cabinets, and artistic wallpaper with a whimsical floral print and subtle European nod. The custom range in cream and brass is a stunning showstopper and a testament that even the most functional of elements in a kitchen can still be beautiful! Which one is the star of the show? How do we pick just one?!

This primary ensuite transformation converted an underutilized home office into a serene, nature-inspired retreat. Drawing inspiration from the lush forests surrounding the home and the homeowners’ travels through Central American rainforests, the design creates a seamless connection between indoors and out.
A reimagined layout, abundant natural light, and direct access to an outdoor hot tub enhance the spa-like experience. Custom Curly Maple vanities and beam wraps, handcrafted by the homeowner and a master cabinet maker, pair beautifully with striking Rainforest Green marble, green herringbone tile, pebble mosaics, and raw cement sinks. The result is a warm, immersive sanctuary that celebrates craftsmanship, natural materials, and a deep connection to place.

Complete your home by investing in a garage storage design that finally finishes off your much used but under-utilized garage / storage area.
Seen here in Tech-Red Powder Coat, this design will sure to be the envy of even the most discerning neighbors. Wall-to-wall tall cabinetry coupled with a perfectly proportioned work space make for a clean and efficient design. The integrated
"Wire-Wall" shelving system provides additional storage and keeps all the tools you use the most right at your fingertips.
A variety of counter and finish options are available and include stainless steel counters and fully encapsulated powder coated door & drawer face options with a smooth but rugged surface.
Call Today to schedule your free in home consultation, and be sure to ask about our monthly promotions.
Tailored Living® & Premier Garage® Grand Strand / Mount Pleasant
OFFICE: 843-957-3309
EMAIL: jsnash@tailoredliving.com
WEB: tailoredliving.com/myrtlebeach

Our Customer wanted to add an additional bathroom in basement to accommodate her growing family. Basements are often an overlooked and underutilized area of the home. With careful design considerations for a basement remodel, the once cold and dark underground space can go from dark and scary to warm and inviting. Whether you are looking to completely remodel your space or increase your footprint by adding in a bathroom to your basement, there are countless transformation ideas to meet your family needs.
We created a comfort and style bathroom with a rustic feel laundry room in this dark and unfished area of the basement. This new simple basement bathroom was transformed with multi-sides subway tiles in the shower surround, the unique personalized Elongated Hex Moon Gate 1x3 tile shower pan, the reclaimed wood-look tile floors, a modern-rustic feel to the sink area, warm grey-blue paint and a fun Kohler Exhale® B120 2.0 gpm multifunction handshower as a showerhead. Cozy Decorative accents such as the 12x12Gray Blend Waterfall Glass tile in the large wall-to-wall niche and the soft Vibrant Brushed Nickel finishes, created a tranquil vibe to the room. The Optic tempered window and Kohler Fluence Sliding shower door allows natural light in this sunken lair of the house.
Photo Credit: Suzanne Kalmin, Social Bug

Living Room in Alyssa Lane | Key Feature: A complete kitchen + living room transformation designed for a young, growing family who loved their home, but needed it to work harder and reflect their personality. The updated kitchen became the heart of the home, featuring a hidden smoothie station to keep daily essentials out of sight, plus a dedicated cocktail bar setup for entertaining. In the living room, the fireplace wall was fully reimagined by centering the previously cornered fireplace and creating a multifunctional media wall with custom furnishings and a statement chandelier. To top it off, the former formal dining room was transformed into a bar lounge with custom brass shelving, a black grasscloth backdrop, and a bold, elevated vibe perfect for hosting friends and family.
Challenge: This home belonged to a young couple with two small kids and a growing business, and while they loved the house itself, the spaces didn’t support the way they actually lived. The kitchen lacked function and storage, everyday routines (like smoothie-making) created visual clutter, and cocktail entertaining essentials were being shoved into the pantry with no dedicated space. The living room also felt awkward and unfinished due to the cornered fireplace, which made it difficult to create a centered, functional media wall. On top of that, the formal dining room wasn’t being used, leaving valuable square footage underutilized and disconnected from their lifestyle and personality.
Solution: We redesigned the home around how the family truly uses it day-to-day, focusing on function, personality, and elevated livability. In the kitchen, we created a modern, highly organized layout complete with a hidden smoothie station so daily supplies stay accessible but out of sight. For entertaining, we designed a dedicated bar area for Ryan, giving him a more inspired space to make cocktails without relying on pantry storage. In the living room, we centered the fireplace and fully revamped the feature wall into a multifunctional entertainment/media wall, then layered in custom furniture pieces and a statement chandelier to bring warmth and style. Finally, we converted the unused formal dining room into a bar lounge with custom brass shelving, a striking black grasscloth wall, and a sophisticated hangout space perfect for entertaining family and friends.
Budget: $100k-$150k |
Timeline: 4 months

From unfinished and underutilized, to finished and a space for the entire family, this basement project was a true transformation. The basement is now seismic retrofitted, finished, and has reconfigured plumbing and ducting to allow for a more optimized floor plan.

The owners of this 1894 historic farmhouse wanted to restore the original character and charm to their home. To achieve this, the house received a new kitchen and bathrooms, as well as being rewired and replumbed, all with an eye to bringing back the details of this wonderful home.
The home’s large kitchen was underutilized and housed a non-functioning fireplace. The fireplace was removed and the kitchen received new white-painted wood custom cabinets with shaker style doors and beadboard details around the island. To achieve a similar look to soapstone, honed black granite countertops were used to accentuate the period of the home. New wood windows were installed in place of aluminum and a new entry to the kitchen was created using the existing pantry, complete with beadboard paneling and bench seat for shoe storage.
Our highest priority was preserving all of the unique features of the home, and incorporating some new features like the linen closet/pass-through between the Dining Room and Kitchen.

Inspired by the ambiance of a whiskey speakeasy, this Lenexa, Kansas basement remodel was designed for homeowners who love to entertain. The finished basement features a color-drenched bar with deep blue cabinetry and matching tile, panel-ready refrigeration, a dishwasher drawer, and floating shelves with integrated LED lighting to display a curated whiskey collection.
To enhance entertaining, a new door was added to connect the basement directly to the screened-in porch, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow for gatherings. Thoughtfully planned gathering spaces allow guests to move comfortably between the bar, lounge, and outdoor areas. Designed shortly after the homeowners moved into the property, this basement renovation transformed an underutilized lower level into a welcoming destination for hosting friends and family.
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