Search results for "Unusable" in Home Design Ideas

In the hills of San Anselmo in Marin County, this 5,000 square foot existing multi-story home was enlarged to 6,000 square feet with a new dance studio addition with new master bedroom suite and sitting room for evening entertainment and morning coffee. Sited on a steep hillside one acre lot, the back yard was unusable. New concrete retaining walls and planters were designed to create outdoor play and lounging areas with stairs that cascade down the hill forming a wrap-around walkway. The goal was to make the new addition integrate the disparate design elements of the house and calm it down visually. The scope was not to change everything, just the rear façade and some of the side facades.
The new addition is a long rectangular space inserted into the rear of the building with new up-swooping roof that ties everything together. Clad in red cedar, the exterior reflects the relaxed nature of the one acre wooded hillside site. Fleetwood windows and wood patterned tile complete the exterior color material palate.
The sitting room overlooks a new patio area off of the children’s playroom and features a butt glazed corner window providing views filtered through a grove of bay laurel trees. Inside is a television viewing area with wetbar off to the side that can be closed off with a concealed pocket door to the master bedroom. The bedroom was situated to take advantage of these views of the rear yard and the bed faces a stone tile wall with recessed skylight above. The master bath, a driving force for the project, is large enough to allow both of them to occupy and use at the same time.
The new dance studio and gym was inspired for their two daughters and has become a facility for the whole family. All glass, mirrors and space with cushioned wood sports flooring, views to the new level outdoor area and tree covered side yard make for a dramatic turnaround for a home with little play or usable outdoor space previously.
Photo Credit: Paul Dyer Photography.

A builder grade bathroom gets a major upgrade. The client was amazing as she did this remodel while having a torn Achilles tendon while she was in a boot before and after surgery all while her husband was out of town for work. This prompted the request for a large, curbless shower with a barn door. We removed the dated unused corner tub to expand the shower and added a bench under the window for additional storage. The vanity got a functional make-over with better storage for toiletries. His and hers pull-outs and drawers provided ample space. The traditional fixtures blend with the more contemporary tile and color pallet giving the bathroom an elegant soothing feel.

These are Before, During, and After photos of a recent project we completed in Point Loma. The front yard was a sloped lawn and unusable. We terraced the yard with Keystone Country Manor and installed a concrete walkway to the front door.
Find the right local pro for your project

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 living space features luxurious furnishings, a cozy fireplace, and statement lighting. Balanced decor and a touch of greenery add warmth and sophistication, creating a haven of comfort and style.
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/

Our Seattle studio designed this stunning 5,000+ square foot Snohomish home to make it comfortable and fun for a wonderful family of six.
On the main level, our clients wanted a mudroom. So we removed an unused hall closet and converted the large full bathroom into a powder room. This allowed for a nice landing space off the garage entrance. We also decided to close off the formal dining room and convert it into a hidden butler's pantry. In the beautiful kitchen, we created a bright, airy, lively vibe with beautiful tones of blue, white, and wood. Elegant backsplash tiles, stunning lighting, and sleek countertops complete the lively atmosphere in this kitchen.
On the second level, we created stunning bedrooms for each member of the family. In the primary bedroom, we used neutral grasscloth wallpaper that adds texture, warmth, and a bit of sophistication to the space creating a relaxing retreat for the couple. We used rustic wood shiplap and deep navy tones to define the boys' rooms, while soft pinks, peaches, and purples were used to make a pretty, idyllic little girls' room.
In the basement, we added a large entertainment area with a show-stopping wet bar, a large plush sectional, and beautifully painted built-ins. We also managed to squeeze in an additional bedroom and a full bathroom to create the perfect retreat for overnight guests.
For the decor, we blended in some farmhouse elements to feel connected to the beautiful Snohomish landscape. We achieved this by using a muted earth-tone color palette, warm wood tones, and modern elements. The home is reminiscent of its spectacular views – tones of blue in the kitchen, primary bathroom, boys' rooms, and basement; eucalyptus green in the kids' flex space; and accents of browns and rust throughout.

Originally built in 1859 by Justice William J. Robertson and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1999, this home has elements of both the Italianate and Gothic Revival styles which were taken into consideration during the design process.
The project consisted of three main components: a basement renovation, a new screened in porch and a new two car garage.
For the basement renovation we removed the original brick floor which was causing moisture issues and replaced them with an insulated, colored concrete slab. The end result: a previously unusable space was transformed into a family room with a complete guest suite and an exercise room.
In the guest bedroom, low ceilings due to existing duct work were strategically wrapped with stained pine tongue and groove creating a cozy sleeping nook. In the bathroom, subway tiles and lightly stained wood are the background to a livelier tile accent in the shower and around the vanity.
The family room features floor to ceiling millwork piece that has several storage cubbies; some with doors to conceal and others open for display.
The screened porch is located at the back of the house overlooking a new stone patio at the lower level yard. The new porch takes cues from the existing sun room by matching materials, colors, and proportion. The new porch off the living room allows the clients to sit and relax while staying close to their children when inside or playing in the yard.
The garage was built using the same material palette and style of the house but set back so as to not to detract from the main house. With large sliding barn doors on the back, it opens up to a manicured lawn allowing the garage to double as a pavilion for outdoor entertaining and yard parties. Alloy worked with Water Street Studio, a local architectural landscaping firm, to create more inviting and usable spaces for the children and adults to enjoy.
Andrea Hubbel Photography

This beautiful outdoor space was designed to replace a shady, largely unused space in our client's backyard. We transformed a small, exposed aggregate patio into an expansive covered outdoor room complete with a gas fireplace and an elaborate outdoor kitchen and bar seating area. The additional open patio space takes advantage of views out to a waterfall and greenery beyond.
William Wright Photography

Whether crafting is a hobby or a full-time occupation, it requires space and organization. Any space in your home can be transformed into a fun and functional craft room – whether it’s a guest room, empty basement, laundry room or small niche. Replete with built-in cabinets and desks, or islands for sewing centers, you’re no longer relegated to whatever empty room is available for your creative crafting space. An ideal outlet to spark your creativity, a well-designed craft room will provide you with access to all of your tools and supplies as well as a place to spread out and work comfortably. Designed to cleverly fit into any unused space, a custom craft room is the perfect place for scrapbooking, sewing, and painting for everyone.

This project created a great outdoor living space that had been previously unusable. This ranch style farm house was in a valley that had a lot of sun and the wind would blow every afternoon. We installed our solar white cover to knock down the heat of the afternoon sun and the wind wall created a great place to peacefully relax and dine. The dogs love it too. Photo by Doug Woodside, Decks and Patio Covers

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 living space features luxurious furnishings, a cozy fireplace, and statement lighting. Balanced decor and a touch of greenery add warmth and sophistication, creating a haven of comfort and style.
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/

Jackie and Sean loved the Algonquin neighborhood they lived in with the peaceful neighborhood and the close proximity to work and school. What they didn’t love was how outdated their home had become. With a cramped kitchen and an unused dining room, they decided a remodel was the perfect solution to their problem. They would be able to continue to live in the area they loved, while at the same time they could have the dream home they envisioned.
After a thorough search, Jackie came across Advance Design Studio. She was impressed by all of the positive reviews she saw on the internet and saw herself identifying with all of the project stories she saw on the website. Once they met with designer Scott Christensen and owner Todd Jurs, they knew Advance Design was the right company to make their dreams a reality.
The project consisted of four main areas: the kitchen/dining/powder room, the laundry room, the master bathroom, and the kid’s bathroom. They wanted to expand the kitchen into the seldom used dining room and add a large island for hosting parties and family gatherings. They also wanted new hardwood flooring throughout the first level. The laundry room needed to be more functional, and all three bathrooms were in dire need of updating.
The closed off kitchen was opened up to create a sweeping space between the new eating area and the much larger kitchen. A handsome dry bar complete with a beverage refrigerator and lighted glass door cabinetry makes an elegant transition across from a peninsula area filled with storage. An additional decorative cabinet lighting up elegant dishware through the mullioned glass sits directly across from the drybar.
An expansive island was critical to the kitchen plans. Jackie, Sean and Scott worked closely together to create just the right details for their design. They wanted the island to be functional in addition to being the centerpiece of the room. Added storage for the kid’s school supplies was hidden behind cabinet doors so the children could do their schoolwork right at the island, and a microwave drawer glides open with the touch of a finger hidden inconspicuously within the island space. The easy to care for Cambria Britannica Quartz island top with its sweeping grey and white marble look perched atop hand-carved Craftsman corbels was absolutely what they were hoping for, blending both beauty and function perfectly.
Adding a nice contrast to the brightness of the quartz and the white cabinetry, Kodiak - Leather granite countertops were used to balance the light and dark tones of the space. Dura Supreme Classic White painted cabinets grace the perimeter, while Maple Poppy Seed stained cabinets with a beautiful soft grey woodgrain were used in the beverage center and island. The two tones compliment the large space balancing it out nicely creating interest and elegance with the simple Craftsman style full overlay doors.
A deep warm Barnwood White Oak flooring was added throughout the lower level. The new floor brings additional contrast to the bright kitchen and provides unity with the now open floorplan as it rolls in to the foyer and family room. Final details like the show-stopping lunar like duo light fixtures complete the space and intermix expertly with crisscross details of the glass door mullions, the island bar seating and even accessories in the space.
The small cluttered laundry room needed more space and more storage. With a busy family it seemed to overflow daily and did not have anywhere to hide the families “in and out stuff.” Scott designed the new space with a stackable washer and dryer and much more efficiently organized cabinetry. Doing laundry is now (almost!) a pleasure and keeping everyone’s “stuff” hidden, but readily accessible is now a snap.
The master bath was not a place where the couple enjoyed spending time getting ready for their day. The tub almost never was used, so removing it made it possible to build an extra-large shower, replacing the small cramped cube of the previous shower they hated. Clean, horizontal lines softly draw your eye around the space with porcelain tile called Driftwood Sea spray. Full overlay cabinetry in a soft white vanity with double sinks makes getting ready for the day much more convenient for the busy couple.
Long floor planks made of porcelain tile mimic real hardwood floors in a soft grey to compliment the shower, but with the ease and care of a tile surface. Cambrian Black Granite counters with a matte finish and under mount porcelain sinks with handsome brushed chrome hardware complete the handsome space. A real bonus in any master bath; a custom built in storage nook was tucked in the corner of the space for linens and heavenly storage.
The kid’s bath was in sad shape because it was original to the house. To keep the budget in control, the tub which was in great condition was retained, but focus was on the new large brick style porcelain charcoal tile on the floor, crisp white new Craftsman style cabinetry with pretty furniture details on the corner base, a striking granite top with white under mount porcelain sinks and fresh hardware and faucets. Some beautiful soft grey wood mirrors to match mom and dads were custom sized and placed under new lighting, and 4 hooks were smartly arranged down the wall for kids’ towels.
This couple was determined not to move, and made their house their dream home. Not only does their home function greatly now, but Jackie says, “When the neighbors come to visit, they’re asking if they can “steal” the design”! The added functionality, elegance, and open floor plan were exactly what this family needed in order to stay.
Advance Design Studio, Joe Nowak

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

The renovation design opened the interior for improved connectivity between rooms. On the main level, the solution removed interior partitions, an unused fireplace, and an awkward set of basement stairs to integrate the living room, dining area, and kitchen. Oval Saarinen dining table in gray satin marble by Eero Saarinen (via Knoll); Modern Rail chandelier by Tech Lighting; Louis Ghost chairs by Philippe Starck.

Intimate Spaces turns unusable area into functional and beautiful spaces.
Over 380 landscape timbers were used on this project.
Retaining walls don't have to be ugly!

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

Adjustable shoe shelves provide the maximum versatility for shoe storage. If you incorporate higher heels or boots into your wardrobe, it’s easy to adjust the shelves to accommodate your newest acquisitions!
Kara Lashuay

These homeowners decided to turn their ski home into a full-time home only to find that what was perfect as a vacation home, didn't function well for year-round living. In the master bathroom an unused tub was removed to make room for a larger vanity with storage. Using the same large format tiles on the floor and the walls provide the desired spa-like feel to the space. Floor to ceiling cabinets provide loads of storage for this kosher kitchen. Two dishwashers, two utensil drawers, a divided sink and two ovens are also included so that meat and dairy could be kept separated.

APD was hired to update the kitchen, living room, primary bathroom and bedroom, and laundry room in this suburban townhome. The design brought an aesthetic that incorporated a fresh updated and current take on traditional while remaining timeless and classic. The kitchen layout moved cooking to the exterior wall providing a beautiful range and hood moment. Removing an existing peninsula and re-orienting the island orientation provided a functional floorplan while adding extra storage in the same square footage. A specific design request from the client was bar cabinetry integrated into the stair railing, and we could not be more thrilled with how it came together!
The primary bathroom experienced a major overhaul by relocating both the shower and double vanities and removing an un-used soaker tub. The design added linen storage and seated beauty vanity while expanding the shower to a luxurious size. Dimensional tile at the shower accent wall relates to the dimensional tile at the kitchen backsplash without matching the two spaces to each other while tones of cream, taupe, and warm woods with touches of gray are a cohesive thread throughout.

Pineapple House maximized storage in the large island via drawers and compartments. They incorporated shelves with baskets that are accessible to the family's small children. These baskets allow the little ones access to their own their plates and utensils, which gives them a sense of responsibility in the kitchen when it is time to set the table and put away dishes. Good habits can start early! Beyond the island, the glimmering tiles of the backsplash are not hindered by cabinetry, and they are a strong focal point in the room. You will see in the following pictures that the dark walls that flank the tiled walls are both shallow cabinets that serve to hold spices.
Scott Moore Photography

Whether crafting is a hobby or a full-time occupation, it requires space and organization. Any space in your home can be transformed into a fun and functional craft room – whether it’s a guest room, empty basement, laundry room or small niche. Replete with built-in cabinets and desks, or islands for sewing centers, you’re no longer relegated to whatever empty room is available for your creative crafting space. An ideal outlet to spark your creativity, a well-designed craft room will provide you with access to all of your tools and supplies as well as a place to spread out and work comfortably. Designed to cleverly fit into any unused space, a custom craft room is the perfect place for scrapbooking, sewing, and painting for everyone.
78