A couple was desperately seeking a brighter, more functional kitchen (see "Before" and "After" photos). Function first - a convenient doorway was created from the kitchen to the pantry, previously accessible only via the dining room. A peninsula was replaced with an island with room to gather. The refrigerator was relocated to an unused corner that in turn opened wall space for original art. Aging cupboards were replaced with soft white cabinetry, teamed with marble backsplash tile and honed Taj Mahal granite countertops. Professional appliances were a must for this true, working kitchen with personal charm that exceeds the needs and wishes of this family.

camilleriparismode projects and design team were approached to rethink a previously unused double height room in a wonderful villa. the lower part of the room was planned as a sitting and dining area, the sub level above as a tv den and games room. as the occupants enjoy their time together as a family, as well as their shared love of books, a floor-to-ceiling library was an ideal way of using and linking the large volume. the large library covers one wall of the room spilling into the den area above. it is given a sense of movement by the differing sizes of the verticals and shelves, broken up by randomly placed closed cupboards. the floating marble fireplace at the base of the library unit helps achieve a feeling of lightness despite it being a complex structure, while offering a cosy atmosphere to the family area below. the split-level den is reached via a solid oak staircase, below which is a custom made wine room. the staircase is concealed from the dining area by a high wall, painted in a bold colour on which a collection of paintings is displayed. photos by: brian grech

A graphic Schumacher grasscloth wraps a previously unused office space in a rich blue palette. With a piece of art from the homeowner’s collection and a red sconce by Hwang Bishop above a vintage desk, this space welcomes a quiet moment more than ever.

Mediterranean remodel in upper Rockridge: We wanted to give this soulful down-to-earth client the modern conveniences she desired while remaining inspired by and harmonizing with the elegant curves of her home’s historic architecture. Fun, personalized features included the hidden pantry, the slim-Shaker walnut wood cabinets, a new coffee bar area with separate sink (which also extended the reach of the kitchen into a formerly-unused nook), a hydraulic-lift television housed in its own custom-built cabinet in an alcove, and a cat cubby. Our design integrates clean, contemporary architectural elements with styling selections that emphasize materials that are natural and handmade. The result is a welcoming feeling of warmth married with a modern sensibility, a perfect update for the heart of the house. Building Contractor: Ryan Stone, Stone Home Building Cabinetry: Wilson & Sons Painting Contractor: José Gutiérrez, Gutiérrez Painting Company Photos: Mo Saito

Edict Inc - Completely remodeled and expanded kitchen from smaller galley style kitchen. Expanded into unused bedroom, added windows at end of kitchen to visually expand the space.

This galley kitchen was opened up to the dining room and extended back into an unused breakfast nook to create more space. Shallow cabinets supporting the hood, alongside range, have spice storage

Tucked into Hollywood Hill, this 1980’s built home has been re-designed to enlarge the kitchen by taking over the formal dining room and to re-purpose the unused formal living room into the new spacious dining room. Painted cabinets with herringbone tile and quartz countertops throughout. We have a unique double island design and have incorporated a favorite family cobblers block from the 1800’s into this kitchen. The project focused on the kitchen, dining and formal living room.

The laundry was given a face lift during the remodel. The washer/dryer units originally blocked the sink and the sink cabinet making the space almost unusable. The original cabinets were painted and the washer and dryer were stacked to provide additional space. The flooring was updated to Cavalier porcelain in Nero.

THE SETUP Senior Designer Diana Burton’s client loved her sixties-era home – it just needed some work. The cozy galley kitchen was narrow and mostly closed off from the family room. A pass-through window served as a limited pipeline for treats and chatter. The appliances were failing, too. It was simply time for an overhaul. Design Objectives: Remove load bearing wall and open kitchen to the family room Omit large unused fireplace in family room Increase work surfaces and overall storage solutions Dedicated small countertop appliance storage Seating for 3 or 4 at island Add pantry storage Offer solution for lack of mudroom Upgrade all appliances THE REMODEL Design Challenges: Finding a location to hide structural support for new beam Reworking awkward configuration of existing walls Adding a walk-in pantry Creating mudroom storage Allowing room for large sectional in family room Design Solutions: Add a discreet column by the fridge to hide essential support Flush out wall by bath to be even with the range wall, where the new walk in pantry exists Use void space behind new wall for large appliance garage Create combination walk in pantry/mudroom by adding bench with shoe storage and hooks Maintain island depth for comfortable seating without infringing on space for the sectional THE RENEWED SPACE This cramped, dated kitchen has a new lease on life! Opening it to the family room dramatically transformed the space. Diana’s client now has plenty of storage, a big island for food prep, and an open-concept space that’s perfect for entertaining and hanging out with friends and family.

The day the owner closed on the house, we tore out the shower to expand it and update the tile. In the close up / unused space we added the bench seat and niches. the shower was also made 3 inches wider. The shower panel has body sprays, rain shower and wand.

This yard used to be unused lawn. Now the whole space can be used for entertaining!

This project focused on creating a clean, ultra low maintenance outdoor environment that seamlessly builds upon the home’s recent remodel. The rear yard was thoughtfully expanded by incorporating a previously unused and vacated easement area, allowing us to extend the usable space by nearly ten feet and significantly improve overall flow and functionality. The design emphasizes simple lines, durable materials, and low water plantings for long term ease of care. In the front yard, we refreshed the landscape with new planting and replaced inconsistent lawn areas with a stable rock ground cover, creating a more polished look with greater durability and reduced upkeep.

This unused secondary bedroom, located next to the primary suite, was transformed into a private dressing room. We closed off the hallway entry and created a new access point directly from the primary bedroom for a more seamless and functional flow.

THE SETUP When we first encountered this basement for a family with three boys, we saw a space with untapped potential. Though previously remodeled, it lacked a cohesive design strategy. The expansive area housed various entertainment pieces (a shuffleboard table, air hockey, foosball, etc.) scattered haphazardly throughout the space. While the basement included a workout room and a rudimentary kitchen area, it lacked a dedicated game room or proper bar. Excessive storage closets along the back wall consumed valuable real estate that could be repurposed for more engaging uses. In essence, the basement was spacious but disjointed—functional for family use but falling short as an entertainment hub. It didn’t align with the sophistication of the rest of the home. Our clients envisioned a transformation: a fresh, organized space that would not only serve their family’s needs but also shine as an inviting arena for entertaining friends and hosting gatherings – especially sports-focused gatherings! Design Objectives: Reimagine the basement layout, creating distinct zones for varied activities. Expand the workout area to accommodate new equipment, including a Smith machine. Implement a multi-screen setup inspired by high-end sports bars, allowing guests to follow multiple games while socializing. Enhance existing features while developing new areas: Optimize a workout space for all equipment needs Establish a dedicated children’s space with guest room capabilities Create an integrated bar and entertainment area Retain and incorporate the existing projector setup Design Challenges: Navigate layout constraints in the new workout room due to fixed utility areas. Carve out a distinct space for kids within the open plan. Revitalize an underutilized section of the basement. Elevate the existing big screen area with purposeful design elements. Develop a full-fledged bar area while maintaining kitchen functions applicable for hangout snacking. Work around immovable structural elements (soffits, load-bearing support columns) THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Install a stylish barn door for the utility area of the new workout space, improving aesthetics and accessibility. Repurpose the former workout room into a dedicated game room for kids, utilizing couches with pull-out beds so the area can double as overflow guest accommodations. Transform the unused area into a vibrant pub-style area for card and table games. Enhance the big screen area with elegant wainscoting and ambient theatre-style lighting. Design a multi-functional wet bar area featuring varied seating, prep areas, and a microwave. Base the bar sink area width off the soffit above it. In the big screen area, use the soffit to inform the width of a wainscoting section. For the immovable support columns, dress one up to match the wainscoting of the nearby big screen wall. Hide the other one in a new wall. Final Thoughts: The reimagined basement has exceeded our clients’ expectations, evolving into the ultimate entertainment hub. With seven strategically placed screens, it’s perfect for gatherings focused on major sporting events and casual gatherings, as well. The space strikes a balance between adult sophistication and family-friendly functionality, featuring distinct zones for various activities. The new design not only maximizes functionality for modern, multi-screen entertainment but also elevates the aesthetic appeal. It integrates flawlessly with the rest of the home’s transitional style while allowing each basement section to maintain its unique character. The result is a versatile space that caters to both intimate family time and large-scale entertaining.

The Craftsman's style inspiration derived from the Gamble House. The fireplace wall was decreased in size for an open-concept spacious grand room. The custom stained cabinetry graciously flows from the kitchen, laundry room, hall, and primary bathroom. Two new hutches were added to the dining room area for extra storage. The sizeable wet island serves as an entertaining hub. We spared no unused space to accommodate the families' needs. Two-tone quartz countertops provide a transitional design. The quartz white countertops serve as a grout-free backsplash.

The client had an unused slab of cypress wood in his garage. We added legs and created a custom cypress dining table with real Wow. The gray-green wall paint is almost identical to the kitchen's subway tiles.

A fresh update for a dated bathroom layout. This lovely couple wanted to remove the unused corner soaker tub and replace it with open space. We converted from a standard shower pan to a much larger curbless shower. Heated floors throughout. Featuring Durasupreme Cabinetry, Moen and Kohler Components. Vicostone Quartz, Color Botticino. Photography by Fly by Chicago-Dan Barker Photography

A favorite blast from the past for us. We still love the story behind this kitchen and 7 bathrooms! The client's #1 thing she kept saying was I'm so glad I hired you, otherwise I'd have 7 bathrooms that all look exactly the same! :0 We loved the challenge this home brought us as we were first getting our team together. The kitchen which started with red countertops, no breakfast nook- just a sea of unused cabinetry, it was dark, dated and just needed some love and creativity. We gave it just that and loved every minute of working with this adorable family.

The existing deck fell victim to a very damp environment in a wooded area. It was in a state of disrepair and the wood had succumbed to rot in various places, making it unstable and unusable. The homeowner opted for Trex composite decking material with a pressure treated rail and stairs. The final product is moisture resistant, can be pressure washed and has a 25-Year Limited Residential Warranty. The homeowner can rest assured that his backyard investment is well protected for years to come.