Cramped kitchen be gone! That was the project motto and top priority. The goal was to transform the current layout from multiple smaller spaces into a connected whole that would activate the main level for our clients, a young family of four. The biggest obstacle was the wall dividing the kitchen and the dining room. Removing this wall was central to opening up and integrating the main living spaces, but the existing ductwork that ran right through the center of the wall posed a design challenge, er design opportunity. The resulting design solution features a central pantry that captures the ductwork and provides valuable storage- especially when compared to the original kitchen's 18" wide pantry cabinet. The pantry also anchors the kitchen island and serves as a visual separation of space between the kitchen and homework area. Through our design development process, we learned the formal living room was of no service to their lifestyle and therefore space they rarely spent time in. With that in mind, we proposed to eliminate the unused living room and make it the new dining room. Relocating the dining room to this space inherently felt right given the soaring ceiling and ample room for holiday dinners and celebrations. The new dining room was spacious enough for us to incorporate a conversational seating area in the warm, south-facing window alcove. Now what to do with the old dining room?! To answer that question we took inspiration from our clients' shared profession in education and developed a craft area/homework station for both of their boys. The semi-custom cabinetry of the desk area carries over to the adjacent wall and forms window bench base with storage that we topped with butcher block for a touch of warmth. While the boys are young, the bench drawers are the perfect place for a stash of toys close to the kitchen. The kitchen begins just beyond the window seat with their refrigerator enclosure. Opposite the refrigerator is the new pantry with twenty linear feet of shelving and space for brooms and a stick vacuum. Extending from the backside of the pantry the kitchen island design incorporates counter seating on the family room side and a cabinetry configuration on the kitchen side with drawer storage, a trashcan center, farmhouse sink, and dishwasher. We took careful time in design and execution to align the range and sink because while it might seem like a small detail, it plays an important role in supporting the symmetrical configuration of the back wall of the kitchen. The rear wall design utilizes an appliance garage mirrors the visual impact of the refrigerator enclosure and helps keep the now open kitchen tidy. Between the appliance garage and refrigerator enclosure is the cooking zone with 30" of cabinetry and work surface on either side of the range, a chimney style vent hood, and a bold graphic tile backsplash. The backsplash is just one of many personal touches we added to the space to reflect our client's modern eclectic style and love of color. Swooping lines of the mid-mod style barstools compliment the pendants and backsplash pattern. A pop of vibrant green on the frame of the pantry door adds a fresh wash of color to an otherwise neutral space. The big show stopper is the custom charcoal gray and copper chevron wall installation in the dining room. This was an idea our clients softly suggested, and we excitedly embraced the opportunity. It is also a kickass solution to the head-scratching design dilemma of how to fill a large and lofty wall. We are so grateful to bring this design to life for our clients and now dear friends.

This home renovation project transformed unused, unfinished spaces into vibrant living areas. Each exudes elegance and sophistication, offering personalized design for unforgettable family moments. The upstairs landing area exudes sophistication with its elegant staircase railings, complemented by a serene beige palette. A grand wall clock adds a timeless touch to this refined space. Project completed by Wendy Langston's Everything Home interior design firm, which serves Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, and Indianapolis. For more about Everything Home, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://everythinghomedesigns.com/portfolio/fishers-chic-family-home-renovation/

This condo remodel consisted of redoing the kitchen layout and design to maximize the small space, while adding built-in storage throughout the home for added functionality. The kitchen was inspired by art-deco design elements mixed with classic style. The white painted custom cabinetry against the darker granite and butcher block split top counters creates a multi-layer visual interest in this refreshed kitchen. The history of the condo was honored with elements like the parquet flooring, arched doorways, and picture crown molding. Specially curated apartment sized appliances were added to economize the space while still matching our clients style. In other areas of the home, unused small closets and shelving were replaced with custom built-ins that added need storage but also beautiful design elements, matching the rest of the remodel. The final result was a new space that modernized the home and added functionality for our clients, while respecting the previous historic design of the original condo.

We turned this drab unusable basement space into an oasis fit for the in-laws. We underpinned this space and created a one bedroom, one bathroom apartment with a bright living space, a fully functioning kitchen and it's own separate entrance.

Wondering what to do with that extra space? Once deemed only for trusses and construction material, we can transform an unused space into a usable bonus room such as a bunkroom, exercise room, man cave, or office.

This kitchen now sits where an un-used dining room used to be. Gilmore Building Co., Inc. and J. Salmon Design Inc. worked together to make this kitchen function for a busy family. New kitchen included a farmhouse sink, large working island, induction cooktop and lots of room to heat and cook meals. Custom hood and tile work.

This elegant remodel included transformation of a dated space with an unused corner tub and a very cramped acrylic corner shower. With this renovation, we were able to incorporate a large vanity, expanded shower, new spa-like soaker tub, glass and quartz niche accents, dark custom cabinetry, heated tile floors, vessel sinks and bold modern colors for a modern look that's both functional & opulent.

The goal of this Carmichael kitchen transformation was to encapsulate the harmonious blend of the client's modern design aesthetic with the enduring charm and character of the original ranch architecture. By retaining the existing red oak floors and pairing them with dark walnut cabinets, the space achieves a striking contrast that highlights the natural beauty of the materials. Modern slab cabinetry, a sleek vent hood, and contemporary backsplash elements are complemented by transitional hardware and lighting, creating a cohesive style that integrates seamlessly with the rest of the home. Functionality took center stage in this project without altering the kitchen’s footprint. Smart upgrades included custom kitchen organizers, a pull-up mixer stand for the resident baker, and relocating the prep sink to the opposite side of the island to improve workflow. By eliminating unused appliances, we also created room for a larger refrigerator and additional storage. The result is a kitchen that is both stylish and practical, perfectly suited to the client’s needs and lifestyle.

Revamping this under-stair space into a stylish corner with a sideboard adorned with a lamp and accessories not only maximized functionality but also added an elegant touch to an otherwise unused space.

Formal Backyard Garden Showcases the Beauty of Natural Gray Concrete This Pacific Northwest project called for a total backyard transformation that required a significant reduction in lawn space, most of which was saturated and mossy. Emily of Emily Russell Landscape Architecture designed this formal backyard garden which was installed by Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC. Previously unused space was organized through the creation of a courtyard patio which functions as an extension of the house that the homeowner can use for family gatherings, entertaining, or reflection. Budgetary concerns led her to opt for concrete rather than a mortared flagstone patio. “I always let homeowners know that we can do either for them, but to me, going with concrete is an easy choice to make because of the cost savings,” says Colby Brand, President of Northwest of Construction & Landscape, LLC. Ashlar slate stamped concrete was suggested by Colby to mimic the pattern used in Emily’s conceptual design. The final plan featured natural gray, ashlar slate stamped concrete with antique coloring for texture. Colby and his team poured the steps first. Substantial in size – the rise is 4’ with a run of 5,’ and includes a 4’ landing on top – the steps allow an easy and fluid transition from inside to outside. After the steps were completed, the curved walkway on the side of the house was poured, connecting the backyard to the front yard. Instead of a conventional, rectangular shape for the 647 sf courtyard patio area, the formality of the plan called for sections of the concrete to bump out into the garden beds against the back side of the house, tying the contrasting elements together. Granite urns and curved, concrete benches purchased by the homeowner rest atop the rounded portion of the concrete and provide a space for sitting and an inviting view from the house. Regarding the final product, Emily Russell states, “My client and I are extremely happy with the finished patio. It's such an inviting space that is well loved and used on a regular basis.”

visit GDALandscape.com and discover how you can turn your unused space into something extraordinary
Inspiration for a contemporary backyard second story deck remodel in Los Angeles

Our clients already had a cottage on Torch Lake that they loved to visit. It was a 1960s ranch that worked just fine for their needs. However, the lower level walkout became entirely unusable due to water issues. After purchasing the lot next door, they hired us to design a new cottage. Our first task was to situate the home in the center of the two parcels to maximize the view of the lake while also accommodating a yard area. Our second task was to take particular care to divert any future water issues. We took necessary precautions with design specifications to water proof properly, establish foundation and landscape drain tiles / stones, set the proper elevation of the home per ground water height and direct the water flow around the home from natural grade / drive. Our final task was to make appealing, comfortable, living spaces with future planning at the forefront. An example of this planning is placing a master suite on both the main level and the upper level. The ultimate goal of this home is for it to one day be at least a 3/4 of the year home and designed to be a multi-generational heirloom. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

A shaded and unused balcony terrace transformed into a lush new outdoor room for the family.
Mountain style balcony photo in New York

Efficient storage space is always crucial in old homes. It helps to keep the rest of your kitchen tidy. We transformed half of a unused enclosed porch to a beautiful butler's pantry.

DR french doors open out to patio bar and grille area. Custom printed silk stripe fabric made into working drapes and box pleated valances with self covered buttons. Working sheers behind panels close over curved space when weather is bad or when the home is unused in the winter.

Exterior home photo in Singapore

This old and outdated kitchen was transformed into an open, inviting, modern and functioning space that everyone wants to gather and hang out in. This was achieved by reconfiguring the space, eliminating walls and adding and incorporating the unused dining space. The new kitchen cabinets were done in the Manhattan door from the Kitchen Solvers Classic Collection line in an Alabaster color while the island was done in a black tea color. We next installed a Cambria Quartz countertop in Carrick around the kitchen while the island was done in Minuet. To finish the new look we added a Ceramic white with marble veining backsplash around the kitchen, while around the hood they went with a gray glass backsplash. The two-toned cabinets topped with two beautiful different Cambria quartz and backsplash gave it the added sophistication.

A homeowner who we’d worked with previously (a bathroom we’d remodeled for him was named ‘Bathroom of the Year’ by Boston Globe Magazine in 2007.) contacted us with a new project in mind. Following a divorce and second marriage, he and his family had moved into mid-sized home that felt too cramped for two adults and four children. Working within its existing frame, we set to work creating a more functional and pleasant living experience. The family’s main gathering area is the kitchen. We began improving the space by absorbing square footage from what had been a mudroom/laundry area behind the kitchen. This allowed us to introduce an island, creating a focal point for meal prep, cooking, and socializing. New custom cabinetry increased storage. We added a homework nook for the kids. Wider openings to the foyer and the dining room made flow between spaces easier. At the home’s entry, we re-treaded and re-finished the staircase, adding new railings and newell post. An orange fiberglass exterior door contrasts playfully with the home’s deep blue exterior. Finishing the basement allowed the introduction of a new laundry area, a cozy family room/kids play space, and a workshop. In this last space we reconfigured some kitchen items that had been ordered but were unusable due to a last-minute change in plans, including a cabinet now used for tool storage and a wall panel that became a workbench. On the home’s second floor, one bedroom had been accessible only by passing through another bedroom. The family’s two teenage children had been enduring this arrangement via solutions that included placing duct tape along the floor to mark passage boundaries. We were able to give each child much-desired private space by borrowing square-footage from a closet and carving out a hallway with separate entries for each room. Another bedroom on the second floor was refreshed with a new coat of paint. Photo by Shelly Harrison

J Designs Created this turnkey ski chalet located in Vail Colorado is a house full of primary colors and unique custom pieces. The house is laid out over five stories with a vertical feel and a central staircase connecting everything. To break up the thoroughfare we added a funky striped runner that leads you through the spaces and adds a unique pop of texture and color. Throughout the house each space is full of custom designed furniture pieces by J Designs, mixed with an extensive art collection and a stunning view. + The original architecture and finishes of the chalet were by Interior Design Hall of Fame member Orlando Diaz-Azcuy. J Designs worked to create spaces that were full of color but also played nicely with the white oak paneled walls and the slate floors. + The great room was transformed into the heart of the house, with lounging, dining and a nice area for playing games and relaxing on a custom curving bench, the perfect place for watching skiers come down the mountain through the full height windows overlooking Vail Mountain. + I was inspired by the colors of the bathrooms which helped to create cohesiveness in the bedrooms and to determine the color palette for each room. + In the lower level we transformed an unused workout room into a movie room that has a big enough sofa for the whole family with extra floor cushions for any guests.