This architecturally designed home in Austinmer blends timeless design with natural, unique materials, perfectly capturing the beauty of its elevated location. CKS Projects was thrilled to bring this family’s dream home to life, maximising both the stunning South Coast ocean views and the leafy Illawarra escarpment.

The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but the dining room is where the family gathers to enjoy special occasions, create and pass on traditions, and savour each other’s company free from distractions. The family behind this particular dining room enjoys doing just that. When they are not traveling the world, Matthew and Anna (names changed) love to cook meals at home with their teenage daughter, entertain family and friends, and live amongst their cherished travel souvenirs and heirlooms. Their dining room, however, was far from the perfect backdrop for these experiences. Before: Dining Room: When Matthew and Anna contacted us, they imagined a space that would comfortably seat 8 to 10 people and incorporate their beautiful inherited dining table and sideboard in a fresh, modern way. Above all, they wanted a dining room that they would feel proud to share. They worked with us to design, lightly renovate, and furnish their dining room and adjacent living space. Now, the room is nothing short of inviting and elevated. Classic Yet Contemporary Dining Room: Viewed from the living area, the dining room is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Matthew and Anna wanted dark blue for the walls, and we couldn’t have been happier to find the perfect shade for them. By leaning darker, this rich blue creates the perception of depth, making the room feel enticing, comfortable and secluded. The previous built-ins were underwhelming and lacked function, so we designed wider, taller, double sided cabinets that integrated the existing bulk-head, and then accessorized the shelves with the family’s travel finds, books, and decor. Topping these units with brass art lights not only blends contemporary and traditional styles, it also draws attention to the dining table’s modern show-stopping chandelier. You can’t miss it. Inside the dining room, the effect is equally impressive: enveloping yet spacious, warm yet cool, classic yet contemporary. We incorporated their heirloom pieces seamlessly into the design thanks to the 1:2 ratio. For every traditional piece, we introduced two more modern or contemporary pieces — clean lines, subtle curves, and lustrous brass hardware. The result is a collected yet updated look. In any room with dark walls, lighting is of the utmost importance. We placed a mirror adjacent to the window to reflect natural light throughout the room, and we kept the trim and ceiling white for brightness. To provide maximum versatility, we provided multiple light sources that can be adjusted to create different levels of light to suit any mood or occasion. These include: pot lights and a chandelier on dimmers, a sculptural trilight lamp on the sideboard, and art lights on the bookcases and above important art pieces. The built-ins have another surprise waiting inside this special dining room: Double-sided built-ins: dining room shelving and living room shelving. Rather than keep them white like we did in the living room, we painted the back wall of the book cases the same dark blue as the walls in the rest of the room. This reduces the contrast with the surrounding walls and emphasizes the white outline of the cabinets. We also love the dark blue walls’ role as a beautiful backdrop for this family’s treasures. The brass accessories and hand-painted vases and bowls feel like part of the experience. Of course, what is beauty without function? It may not look like it, but the base storage is only accessible from the dining room side. The units include deep cabinets for storing serving ware, as well as another delightful surprise: silverware drawers lined in luxurious navy velvet! Lastly, we designed this beautiful nook for their heirloom sideboard. From afar, the wall looks as if it has texture and perhaps a touch of shine. Up close, you will notice that it is actually navy blue wallpaper with tiny golden dots. This unique touch accentuates the brass in the room touches throughout the space.. The room feels curated, contemporary, and full of character. Words of Praise: Anna and Matthew were thrilled with their new dining room and with the design process itself, which is always the highest compliment. They said: “Working with Lori and her team at Simply Home Decorating was a great experience. The design they came up with was both beautiful and practical for our family. Renovations can be stressful but working with Simply Home made the process much more pleasant. “Simply Home's project management and their longstanding relationships with reliable trades meant we could relax, knowing that everything was taken care of. If an issue arose, the entire Simply Home team was quick to address it. They were excellent at communicating with us—we never felt like we didn't know what was going on. We would highly recommend working with Simply Home Decorating.” Thank you, Matthew and Anna! We are honoured to have been part of your journey and wish your family many happy memories in these new spaces. Now, is it your turn? Are you ready to uncover the hidden potential in your home? If so, contact us here to start the conversation or download my guide Uncovering the Hidden Potential in Your Home below to learn more about what we can do for you.

Introduction Welcome to the Anchor Down Renovation, where we take pride in sharing our exceptional projects that bring beauty and functionality to living spaces. In this edition, we are thrilled to showcase a remarkable bathroom remodeling project featuring a stunning natural modern terracotta style with exquisite silver accents and a custom vanity. Join us as we dive into the details of this project, which highlights Anchor Down's commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the creation of exquisite spaces inspired by nature. Celebrating Nature’s Warmth The bathroom, once lacking character and warmth, was ready for a complete transformation. Our client approached Anchor Down with a vision of creating a space that embraces the beauty of nature. Inspired by this vision, our team set out to design a bathroom that combines the modern elements of terracotta with the warmth and authenticity of natural materials. The Timeless Appeal of Terracotta To infuse the bathroom with a natural and modern aesthetic, our design experts recommended a terracotta style as the foundation of this remodel. Terracotta tiles exude a rustic charm that adds character and warmth to any space. Their earthy tones and unique textures create a natural backdrop that sets the tone for a serene and inviting atmosphere. Silver Accents for Contemporary Elegance To enhance the modern appeal of the terracotta style, we incorporated stunning silver accents throughout the bathroom. Silver fixtures, such as faucets, towel bars, and hardware, were thoughtfully chosen to add a touch of contemporary elegance. The silver accents create a harmonious contrast against the terracotta backdrop, elevating the overall design with their sleek and sophisticated appeal. Custom Vanity: Tailored to Perfection In line with our dedication to creating personalized spaces, we designed and installed a custom vanity for this bathroom remodel. The custom vanity not only enhances the functionality of the space but also serves as a statement piece. Incorporating natural wood elements and exquisite craftsmanship, the custom vanity exudes organic beauty while providing ample storage space for a clutter-free environment. Illuminating Serenity Proper lighting is essential in creating a soothing and inviting bathroom atmosphere. In this project, we carefully planned the lighting to highlight the natural beauty of the terracotta tiles and enhance the serene ambiance. Thoughtfully placed fixtures, such as wall sconces, recessed lighting, and accent lights, create a balanced and inviting environment, ensuring a tranquil retreat within the bathroom. Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail At Anchor Down, we are committed to delivering the highest level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. From the precise installation of each terracotta tile to the flawless integration of silver accents and the custom vanity, our skilled craftsmen ensured perfection in every element. We paid meticulous attention to the alignment, grout lines, and finishing touches, creating a bathroom that showcases our unwavering dedication to excellence.

A tiny home on Waiheke Island needed a staircase to access the loft that was not only a space-saving staircase, but also safe for guests to access. Additionally, the owner wanted a balustrade that required craftsmanship with intricate designs and a beach inspired style to match the interior design of this tiny home. The original design included a wooden staircase, however the owner wanted that replaced with steel stairs to save space. A spiral staircase was considered, but was still too big for what she wanted, which led us to design a ladder. Because the owner is an artist, she wanted a more unique balustrade design. This was quite a different style from our usual fabrications, but we welcomed the challenge. We then brought all the pieces to Waiheke Island and completed the installation in a day. The owner was thrilled with the end result and is now renting out the tiny home as holiday rentals.

Heaven Sparkle Lapis - Dark and thrilling, Heaven Sparkle Lapis pattern from MEC’s PIXL range can serve as a bold contrasting abstract backdrop to any environment. Adorn any space of your choice, e.g. powder room or patio with deep blue and black Vertex glass mosaic. *Get any pattern resized or recolored to better fit your unique requirements. MEC offers free customization and alteration on all mosaic patterns. **AddTek mosaic render is visually similar but may have slight variations due to factors like; textural diversity in mosaic tesserae and light conditions.

Archadeck of Austin was thrilled to work with this Northwest Austin homeowner to design and build a spectacular outdoor living space, a combination screened room, patio and deck with an outdoor kitchen. One of the things that is so special about this project is its unique patio with a hot tub and a dramatic fire wall. Read more about this amazing project at https://austinporchandpatio.com/2017/06/10/challenge-us-archadeck-of-austin-designs-a-permeable-patio-to-complete-the-perfect-combination-outdoor-space/. Photos courtesy Archadeck of Austin

When this young couple was ready to move in together, they were excited to start a new life chapter and find a home that they both could love. Cameron's Inspire home ticked off all the major must-haves, and then some. These clients loved the design process and were thrilled to find unique solutions to seamlessly incorporate their preferred appliances into the kitchen layout as well as design a show stopping natural rock fireplace. With its rural surroundings, yet easy access to all of downtown’s amenities, this property provides the best of both the country and city life. Our clients are also major dog people, so access to lots of great parks and trails was a huge must have. With its open feeling and warm and cozy tones, in addition to gorgeous customized finishes at the client’s request, this home has no compromise. It fits this couple’s lifestyle today and will be ready to grow with them into the future.

2011 CAPITAL COTY AWARD GRAND AWARD WINNER Having just purchased this new home, the owners did not like the disconnection between kitchen and breakfast area. The garden window over the sink was in disrepair, the cabinetry was dark and the room’s flow had no rhyme or reason. The kitchen, however, had a lot of potential. A new design was put together which involved reframing the garden window to create panoramic viewing. Two skylights were added which really brightened up the space. All of the previous bulkheads were removed to allow stacked cabinetry and upper display cupboards. A new larger cooking island with angular wings and seating space around it is now the focal point of this kitchen. An additional countertop built on decorative columns offers space for the couple’s children to do their homework or have a snack. Entire kitchen and breakfast area now has a larger porcelain tile floor laid in a pattern to make the place even larger. Honey-colored maple cabinetry with a slightly rubbed chocolate glaze finish gives a classic but sophisticated look to this kitchen. The marriage of faux painting and brick fascia introduced a unique look into the space. The homeowners are so thrilled with the outcome, they are considering remodeling the rest of the home.

The Design Team at The Elements is thrilled to partner with Mark Kiester and Unique Homes to present Home 1 for the Home Show Expo 2017 in The Estates on the Ridge development at Echo Valley in Norwalk. The home’s Arts and Crafts exterior belies an interior rich with a sophisticated mix of styles and textures. The warm finishes make this home instantly comfortable, and the fine craftsmanship mean many years of worry-free enjoyment in this incredible home. Photo by Mary Rose Timko, The Elements at Prairie Trail

This architecturally designed home in Austinmer blends timeless design with natural, unique materials, perfectly capturing the beauty of its elevated location. CKS Projects was thrilled to bring this family’s dream home to life, maximising both the stunning South Coast ocean views and the leafy Illawarra escarpment.

Artcorner offers affordable three-panel wall art for any type of interior wall space. We design each of our wall pieces by mounting beautiful hi-resolution images to high-quality, solid-wood panels. Our decorative wall-art sets are available in three different sizes and can be hung in commercial and office spaces as well as any area of the home. Panels are designed for durability and moisture resistance. Any piece can hang in bathrooms and kitchens without being damaged by heat and moisture. Natural Landscapes Our selections of nature wall decor feature breathtaking beaches and sunsets, vineyards, trees and flowers, mountain and canyon views, cityscape, beach, more! Bestselling Tropical Pier sets the tone for a serene and tranquil living space. Its sparking crystal-clear water and boardwalk extending toward peaceful bungalows create a stunning image that works for any room. Landscape Arch and Sacred Mountain Arch evoke exciting thrills and unlimited possibilities that any adventurist would enjoy. Express yourself and adorn ordinary wall space with our top-of-the-line triptych nature wall décor in black and white or color. If you feel that the size shown here does not fit your desire, the printed canvas can be custom ordered in various sizes, Contact me for more information. Check out our Shops: 1. https://www.artcorner.co 2. https://www.etsy.com/shop/CopiaArt Enter Coupon Code: artcornernew for a 10% off for first time users! Variety of sizes: 8x24, 20x60, and 28x84

Master Bathroom Remodeling Project – Fort Washington, PA BMR Belmax Remodeling recently completed a stunning master bathroom transformation in a single-family home in Fort Washington, PA. The original bathroom, which had remained unchanged for over 30 years, featured an outdated layout with a traditional bathtub that no longer met the homeowners’ needs. Our team executed a complete remodel, introducing modern design elements, upgraded functionality, and a fresh aesthetic that exceeded the client’s expectations. The Vision The goal of the project was to create a modern and functional master bathroom tailored to the homeowner’s preferences. The existing bathtub was removed to accommodate a sleek, walk-in shower, and the overall design was updated with contemporary features and materials to transform the space into a luxurious retreat. Key Updates and Features 1. Walk-In Shower Installation The centerpiece of this remodel is the new walk-in shower. Featuring elegant marble-look tiles with subtle gray veins, the shower exudes a timeless and luxurious feel. We installed high-quality sliding glass shower doors that provide both a seamless look and easy access. The shower also includes updated fixtures for a modern and polished finish. 2. New Double Vanity A spacious double vanity replaced the outdated single-sink unit. This new vanity provides ample storage and workspace while complementing the bathroom’s refreshed design. Finished with a smooth, high-gloss surface and paired with stylish hardware, it enhances both the functionality and the aesthetic of the room. 3. Upgraded Flooring and Fixtures The floor was redone with durable, modern tiles that coordinate beautifully with the marble-look shower tiles. We also installed a new toilet, an efficient exhaust fan, and updated lighting fixtures to enhance both comfort and ventilation. A lighted mirror was added to bring a touch of modern convenience while brightening the space. 4. Elegant Color Palette To complete the transformation, the bathroom was painted in a soft gray shade. This color harmonizes perfectly with the gray veining in the shower tiles, creating a cohesive and serene atmosphere. Customer Feedback The homeowners were thrilled with the results, describing their new master bathroom as “breathtaking” and “functional.” The successful execution of this project led them to immediately book two additional projects with BMR Belmax Remodeling, including a powder room renovation and hallway updates with door installations. Why Choose BMR Belmax Remodeling? At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality craftsmanship and personalized service that meets and exceeds client expectations. This Fort Washington master bathroom project showcases our ability to transform outdated spaces into modern, functional, and visually appealing areas tailored to our clients’ unique tastes. Ready to Transform Your Bathroom? If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom, whether it’s a minor refresh or a complete overhaul, contact BMR Belmax Remodeling today. Let us bring your vision to life with expert design, quality materials, and unmatched attention to detail.

Children’s waiting room interior design project at Princeton University. I was beyond thrilled when contacted by a team of scientists ( psychologists and neurologists ) at Princeton University. This group of professors and graduate students from the Turk-Brown Laboratory are conducting research on the infant’s brain by using functional magnetic resonance imaging (or fMRI), to see how they learn, remember and think. My job was to turn a tiny 7’x10′ windowless study room into an inviting but not too “clinical” waiting room for the mothers or fathers and siblings of the babies being studied. We needed to ensure a comfortable place for parents to rock and feed their babies while waiting their turn to go back to the laboratory, as well as a place to change the babies if needed. We wanted to stock some shelves with good books and while the room looks complete, we’re still sourcing something interactive to mount to the wall to help entertain toddlers who want something more active than reading or building blocks. Since there are no windows, I wanted to bring the outdoors inside. Princeton University‘s colors are orange, gray and black and the history behind those colors is very interesting. It seems there are a lot of squirrels on campus and these colors were selected for the three colors of squirrels often seem scampering around the university grounds. The orange squirrels are now extinct, but the gray and black squirrels are abundant, as I found when touring the campus with my son on installation day. Therefore we wanted to reflect this history in the room and decided to paint silhouettes of squirrels in these three colors throughout the room. While the ceilings are 10′ high in this tiny room, they’re very drab and boring. Given that it’s a drop ceiling, we can’t paint it a fun color as I typically do in my nurseries and kids’ rooms. To distract from the ugly ceiling, I contacted My Custom Creation through their Etsy shop and commissioned them to create a custom butterfly mobile to suspend from the ceiling to create a swath of butterflies moving across the room. Their customer service was impeccable and the end product was exactly what we wanted! The flooring in the space was simply coated concrete so I decided to use Flor carpet tiles to give it warmth and a grass-like appeal. These tiles are super easy to install and can easily be removed without any residual on the floor. I’ll be using them more often for sure! See more photos of our commercial interior design job below and contact us if you need a unique space designed for children. We don’t just design nurseries and bedrooms! We’re game for anything!

At RCID, we were thrilled to design the Briar Hill Residence—a timeless, transitional home that blends warmth, sophistication, and enduring craftsmanship. In collaboration with Altitude Custom Homes and Scalla Designs, every detail was thoughtfully planned to create a residence that feels both refined and inviting. From initial concept to final touches, the design celebrates quality, comfort, and materials that will stand the test of time. The Briar Hill Residence showcases RCID’s dedication to creating homes that unite beauty and livability—crafted for today and built to last.

2011 CAPITAL COTY AWARD GRAND AWARD WINNER Having just purchased this new home, the owners did not like the disconnection between kitchen and breakfast area. The garden window over the sink was in disrepair, the cabinetry was dark and the room’s flow had no rhyme or reason. The kitchen, however, had a lot of potential. A new design was put together which involved reframing the garden window to create panoramic viewing. Two skylights were added which really brightened up the space. All of the previous bulkheads were removed to allow stacked cabinetry and upper display cupboards. A new larger cooking island with angular wings and seating space around it is now the focal point of this kitchen. An additional countertop built on decorative columns offers space for the couple’s children to do their homework or have a snack. Entire kitchen and breakfast area now has a larger porcelain tile floor laid in a pattern to make the place even larger. Honey-colored maple cabinetry with a slightly rubbed chocolate glaze finish gives a classic but sophisticated look to this kitchen. The marriage of faux painting and brick fascia introduced a unique look into the space. The homeowners are so thrilled with the outcome, they are considering remodeling the rest of the home.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Murals in a bedroom by Tom Taylor of Mural Art LLC. The theme for the room was to create the bridge of a star destroyer from Star Wars. Being a huge Star Wars fan myself, I was thrilled to have had the opportunity to create this room. Star Wars themed rooms have been very popular, especially with the new series of movies that Disney has produced. Star Wars art is perfect for any themed room, media room, home theater, office or your children's bedroom. Items featured throughout the room to complete the look: Exploding Death Star Chandelier, bunk bed, Star Wars comforter set, throw pillows, drapes, room darkening shades, table lamps, Star Wars toys and hand painted kids furniture.

These homeowners were anxiously ready to remodel their dated 80’s kitchen and reached out to Renovisions to handle the transformation. In this new undertaking we met to discuss plans to brighten the dark room with custom painted white inset cabinets, adding more functional storage, better task lighting and GE Monogram appliances, new hardwood flooring throughout and creating a better flow into the adjacent family room. In order to open up the space, Renovisions suggested creating an angle at the peninsula. Continuing with this approach we replaced the rear door with a new one-light door that swings out instead of in to accommodate new bar stools and a better flow of traffic in and out to the deck outside. Silestone’s quartz countertops in ‘Merope’ were the perfect choice adding a nice contrast yet truly durable and low maintenance. Creating a beautifully unique subway tile niche in linen color at cooktop area and backsplash added an elegant touch to the overall look and homeowners were thrilled with this refreshing look after the Renovision. Now their newly renovated kitchen is a showcase and nicely outfitted for family and friends.

Master Bathroom Remodeling Project – Fort Washington, PA BMR Belmax Remodeling recently completed a stunning master bathroom transformation in a single-family home in Fort Washington, PA. The original bathroom, which had remained unchanged for over 30 years, featured an outdated layout with a traditional bathtub that no longer met the homeowners’ needs. Our team executed a complete remodel, introducing modern design elements, upgraded functionality, and a fresh aesthetic that exceeded the client’s expectations. The Vision The goal of the project was to create a modern and functional master bathroom tailored to the homeowner’s preferences. The existing bathtub was removed to accommodate a sleek, walk-in shower, and the overall design was updated with contemporary features and materials to transform the space into a luxurious retreat. Key Updates and Features 1. Walk-In Shower Installation The centerpiece of this remodel is the new walk-in shower. Featuring elegant marble-look tiles with subtle gray veins, the shower exudes a timeless and luxurious feel. We installed high-quality sliding glass shower doors that provide both a seamless look and easy access. The shower also includes updated fixtures for a modern and polished finish. 2. New Double Vanity A spacious double vanity replaced the outdated single-sink unit. This new vanity provides ample storage and workspace while complementing the bathroom’s refreshed design. Finished with a smooth, high-gloss surface and paired with stylish hardware, it enhances both the functionality and the aesthetic of the room. 3. Upgraded Flooring and Fixtures The floor was redone with durable, modern tiles that coordinate beautifully with the marble-look shower tiles. We also installed a new toilet, an efficient exhaust fan, and updated lighting fixtures to enhance both comfort and ventilation. A lighted mirror was added to bring a touch of modern convenience while brightening the space. 4. Elegant Color Palette To complete the transformation, the bathroom was painted in a soft gray shade. This color harmonizes perfectly with the gray veining in the shower tiles, creating a cohesive and serene atmosphere. Customer Feedback The homeowners were thrilled with the results, describing their new master bathroom as “breathtaking” and “functional.” The successful execution of this project led them to immediately book two additional projects with BMR Belmax Remodeling, including a powder room renovation and hallway updates with door installations. Why Choose BMR Belmax Remodeling? At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality craftsmanship and personalized service that meets and exceeds client expectations. This Fort Washington master bathroom project showcases our ability to transform outdated spaces into modern, functional, and visually appealing areas tailored to our clients’ unique tastes. Ready to Transform Your Bathroom? If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom, whether it’s a minor refresh or a complete overhaul, contact BMR Belmax Remodeling today. Let us bring your vision to life with expert design, quality materials, and unmatched attention to detail.

This kitchen has tons of storage and counter space now! The homeowner wasn't thrilled with doing "what everyone else was doing" so she opted to go with two-tone cabinets and a unique mosaic backsplash. By moving the range from the sink wall, we created a much larger and more efficient cooking and prep zone. We also made space for a dishwasher which she didn't have before, as well as a double trash cabinet. The pantry cabinet replaced a makeshift pantry she had before, and the rollouts provide great functional storage