Search results for "Upon center" in Home Design Ideas

Built for the Bluff, A Sea Ranch Home is Remade from the Inside Out
The house had always been grounded, on an ocean bluff at The Sea Ranch. It sits unencumbered, adjacent to one of the most dramatic stretches of the Sonoma coast with protected commons meadow to the east, uninterrupted Pacific views to the west, and a bluff trail running alongside. What it lacked was the feeling of home, one that could hold up its own against the natural landscape.
The owners are entrepreneurs with deep involvement across tech, real estate, and development and they know how things are built. The Sea Ranch house had been in their lives for years, a second residence and a place for family to gather. Built for a different time, it felt more compromising than comfortable. Sitting in a closed off nook, the kitchen fit one cook at a time and turned its back on the rest of the house. The entry was dim and compressed, divided by a structural column that presented itself at exactly the wrong moment. The primary suite was small relative to the view outside it. A large rear bedroom sat behind a lowered ceiling with a bathroom that had never been added. The house was certainly worth the trouble of doing it right.
What followed was not one project but four, each with its own design challenge, each addressed over a period of time.
Where the House Meets the Ocean
The most complex piece of the project, in both structural and spatial terms, was the kitchen expansion. The existing room was a single-person galley squeezed in as an afterthought with no meaningful connection to the dining room, the living space, or the deck outside. To make it useful for a family that cooks and gathers, it needed to grow outward into an existing patio and flow into the rooms around it.
A big challenge was the roofline. Several planes at different pitches and angles converged directly where additional volume was needed. A new form had to join that geometry without reading as a correction. The solution found the simplest possible connection between the existing angles, a roofline that from outside the structure, appears entirely original. From the bluff trail where the addition is visible, there is no discernible seam.
Inside, the kitchen is now open to the living and dining rooms without interruption. A large sliding glass door connects the space onto the rear deck. The deck itself was expanded and oriented so that the body of the house shields it from the coastal wind which is a common consideration that determines whether outdoor space at The Sea Ranch actually gets used. The result is a room that works for large family gatherings where no one feels cutoff, and one that makes the boundary between being inside and outside easy to ignore.
Welcoming Light
A structural column stood at the convergence of eight distinct roof planes in the entry. It was load-bearing, but it was also the reason the entry had always felt like a hallway rather than a welcoming arrival.
With the structural engineer, a custom steel connector was designed to receive beams from six separate directions, redistributing the load through a single new continuous beam. The column was surgically removed. Three triangular skylights were then cut into the roof above, their shapes drawn from the
existing geometry of the planes around them. The entry is now bright and open. The skylights feel native to the structure because they follow the logic already present in the roof.
Two Suites, Two Views
At opposite ends of the house, the two bedroom suites were each reconfigured, and each found a different way to introduce more of the landscape into the room.
An addition to the primary suite extended the structure outward to create a wraparound plan with a loop from the bedroom through bath and closet that had not been possible before. The expansion opened a slot view from the tub and shower toward the ocean. The view is precise and private. The ocean view is present and deliberate.
The rear bedroom absorbed an adjacent storage room to transform it into a full second suite with a vaulted ceiling, a large bathroom with a tub, a shower, and a sauna. A private fenced garden courtyard sits just beyond the glass bringing the outdoors inside. The tub was placed so that, looking past the courtyard and through the bedroom beyond, the ocean is visible at the far end. It is a long view and it makes the room feel larger and more settled than its footprint would suggest.
Glass on Four Sides, Fire at the Center
The main living and gathering room had always been caught between two competing facts: glass on four sides meant exceptional views but at The Sea Ranch, it also meant a cold room. A 360-degree cylindrical fireplace was added at the center on a raised stone base, providing radiant heat in every direction and giving the room a focal point around which a group naturally orients itself, whether that means two people at the end of the day or the whole family after dinner.
Owners Who Picked Up the Tools
The owner was not a passive client. they came with construction knowledge, specific ideas, and the desire to be an active part of the process, a dynamic that other architects may had found difficult, which Klopf Architecture accepted as an asset. They took it upon themselves to complete some of the work during construction, including the installation of a new radiant heating system beneath the floors.
The radiant system added to the older and less-desirable forced-air setup. At The Sea Ranch, that change matters as the house sits close enough to the ocean and moving air competes with the sound of it, where radiant heat does not. Solar panels were added to the roof as part of the new system. Insulation was upgraded throughout the walls, roof, and crawl space. The house that had always had the right setting now holds warmth the way a house on the bluff should.
They were also deeply involved in the design and selections throughout, and the finished house reflects both of them in ways that are specific rather than generic. The process took longer and moved through more iterations than a more arms-length relationship might have allowed. The result is more defined and personal because of it.
The Landscape Holds Priority
Every exterior decision was shaped by The Sea Ranch Design Standards, which require that buildings defer to the landscape around them rather than compete with it. Because this house sits on the bluff and is visible from the public trail, the additions faced a close review. Existing materials were matched. Geometries were resolved. The additions had to become indistinguishable from the original building.
From the trail, the house reads exactly as it always has — low, cedar-clad, secondary to the meadow and the water. The setting holds priority. Inside, the house has been remade.
Klopf Architecture Project Team: Geoff Campen and Trenton Jewett
Contractor: Shawn Bettega Construction
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023
Location: The Sea Ranch, CA

The interior design of this living room included wall-mounted, walnut cabinets with a dark grey painted wall to really make the cabinets pop! A hidden TV resides within the centre cabinet in order to not have the television front and centre upon entering the space.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000
A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost.
The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional.
The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven.
The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space.
On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator.
The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired.
The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast.
The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.
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Built for the Bluff, A Sea Ranch Home is Remade from the Inside Out
The house had always been grounded, on an ocean bluff at The Sea Ranch. It sits unencumbered, adjacent to one of the most dramatic stretches of the Sonoma coast with protected commons meadow to the east, uninterrupted Pacific views to the west, and a bluff trail running alongside. What it lacked was the feeling of home, one that could hold up its own against the natural landscape.
The owners are entrepreneurs with deep involvement across tech, real estate, and development and they know how things are built. The Sea Ranch house had been in their lives for years, a second residence and a place for family to gather. Built for a different time, it felt more compromising than comfortable. Sitting in a closed off nook, the kitchen fit one cook at a time and turned its back on the rest of the house. The entry was dim and compressed, divided by a structural column that presented itself at exactly the wrong moment. The primary suite was small relative to the view outside it. A large rear bedroom sat behind a lowered ceiling with a bathroom that had never been added. The house was certainly worth the trouble of doing it right.
What followed was not one project but four, each with its own design challenge, each addressed over a period of time.
Where the House Meets the Ocean
The most complex piece of the project, in both structural and spatial terms, was the kitchen expansion. The existing room was a single-person galley squeezed in as an afterthought with no meaningful connection to the dining room, the living space, or the deck outside. To make it useful for a family that cooks and gathers, it needed to grow outward into an existing patio and flow into the rooms around it.
A big challenge was the roofline. Several planes at different pitches and angles converged directly where additional volume was needed. A new form had to join that geometry without reading as a correction. The solution found the simplest possible connection between the existing angles, a roofline that from outside the structure, appears entirely original. From the bluff trail where the addition is visible, there is no discernible seam.
Inside, the kitchen is now open to the living and dining rooms without interruption. A large sliding glass door connects the space onto the rear deck. The deck itself was expanded and oriented so that the body of the house shields it from the coastal wind which is a common consideration that determines whether outdoor space at The Sea Ranch actually gets used. The result is a room that works for large family gatherings where no one feels cutoff, and one that makes the boundary between being inside and outside easy to ignore.
Welcoming Light
A structural column stood at the convergence of eight distinct roof planes in the entry. It was load-bearing, but it was also the reason the entry had always felt like a hallway rather than a welcoming arrival.
With the structural engineer, a custom steel connector was designed to receive beams from six separate directions, redistributing the load through a single new continuous beam. The column was surgically removed. Three triangular skylights were then cut into the roof above, their shapes drawn from the
existing geometry of the planes around them. The entry is now bright and open. The skylights feel native to the structure because they follow the logic already present in the roof.
Two Suites, Two Views
At opposite ends of the house, the two bedroom suites were each reconfigured, and each found a different way to introduce more of the landscape into the room.
An addition to the primary suite extended the structure outward to create a wraparound plan with a loop from the bedroom through bath and closet that had not been possible before. The expansion opened a slot view from the tub and shower toward the ocean. The view is precise and private. The ocean view is present and deliberate.
The rear bedroom absorbed an adjacent storage room to transform it into a full second suite with a vaulted ceiling, a large bathroom with a tub, a shower, and a sauna. A private fenced garden courtyard sits just beyond the glass bringing the outdoors inside. The tub was placed so that, looking past the courtyard and through the bedroom beyond, the ocean is visible at the far end. It is a long view and it makes the room feel larger and more settled than its footprint would suggest.
Glass on Four Sides, Fire at the Center
The main living and gathering room had always been caught between two competing facts: glass on four sides meant exceptional views but at The Sea Ranch, it also meant a cold room. A 360-degree cylindrical fireplace was added at the center on a raised stone base, providing radiant heat in every direction and giving the room a focal point around which a group naturally orients itself, whether that means two people at the end of the day or the whole family after dinner.
Owners Who Picked Up the Tools
The owner was not a passive client. they came with construction knowledge, specific ideas, and the desire to be an active part of the process, a dynamic that other architects may had found difficult, which Klopf Architecture accepted as an asset. They took it upon themselves to complete some of the work during construction, including the installation of a new radiant heating system beneath the floors.
The radiant system added to the older and less-desirable forced-air setup. At The Sea Ranch, that change matters as the house sits close enough to the ocean and moving air competes with the sound of it, where radiant heat does not. Solar panels were added to the roof as part of the new system. Insulation was upgraded throughout the walls, roof, and crawl space. The house that had always had the right setting now holds warmth the way a house on the bluff should.
They were also deeply involved in the design and selections throughout, and the finished house reflects both of them in ways that are specific rather than generic. The process took longer and moved through more iterations than a more arms-length relationship might have allowed. The result is more defined and personal because of it.
The Landscape Holds Priority
Every exterior decision was shaped by The Sea Ranch Design Standards, which require that buildings defer to the landscape around them rather than compete with it. Because this house sits on the bluff and is visible from the public trail, the additions faced a close review. Existing materials were matched. Geometries were resolved. The additions had to become indistinguishable from the original building.
From the trail, the house reads exactly as it always has — low, cedar-clad, secondary to the meadow and the water. The setting holds priority. Inside, the house has been remade.
Klopf Architecture Project Team: Geoff Campen and Trenton Jewett
Contractor: Shawn Bettega Construction
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023
Location: The Sea Ranch, CA

Recently, Mandy Renfrew collaborated with Gemstone Developments to stage their beautiful newly built modern custom home. Gemstone built this home with an incredible attention to detail. From floor plan to finishes, they demanded perfection each step along the way. Polanco Home Decor’s staging experts continued this high level of thought and consideration into the furniture and decor selection to prepare this house for sale.
“894 Colonel By Dr. was designed to complement urban, sophisticated living in one of the city’s most sought-after locations. This brand new, custom home includes endless high end features
such as a flawlessly crafted master suite, gourmet Irpinia kitchen facing a spacious raised patio, and expansive entertaining spaces all made accessible with a private elevator. ” Josh Zaret, Gemstone Developments http://gemstonecorp.com/portfolio/894-colonel-by-drive/
“While the building is a masterpiece on its own, it also boasts breath-taking views of the scenic Rideau Canal and manicured green space. By spring, enjoy the sights of the Canadian Tulip Festival and in winter participate in the capital’s renowned Winterlude celebrations by taking steps to the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau canal.” Josh Zaret, Gemstone Developments http://gemstonecorp.com/portfolio/894-colonel-by-drive/
Furniture Store Ottawa - Ottawa StagingThis modern open concept home, designed by Barry Hobin, included 10 foot ceilings with gorgeous floor to ceiling windows. It was important to create an inviting atmosphere with the furnishings we chose, creating a space that anyone who enters could envision themselves living in. We wanted to create a distinction between the living and dining room, as the home featured a very open concept space. Polanco’s designers wanted to create the look of a home meant for entertaining, in which you could enjoy a dining experience as well as socialize in the living room area. The breathtaking view of the Rideau Canal seen from all seating areas in the living space accentuated the spacious feeling of the home.
A custom sized Martha sectional from Marcantonio Designs was the perfect choice for this grand open living room. Upholstered in a soft off-white leather, this style with metal legs complements the contemporary style of this home. We paired the sectional with a square fully tufted ottoman in a similar creamy-white leather to complete the seating area. The solid maple Verona sideboard from Handstone Furniture in a vintage silver stain gives buyers a sense of where to position their media centre. Above this piece, in lieu of a TV, we opted to bring some colour into the space with a piece from Celadon Art. To tie the artwork to the rest of the area, beautiful toss cushions in varying tones of blue were placed on the furniture pieces. Two matching Cassandra chairs upholstered in a simple grey linen fabric were selected to complement the neutral tones of the other furniture pieces. White accessories from Torre & Tagus placed on the ottoman are the final element of decor to this gorgeous open concept living space.
We wanted to continue with a light and airy look, and chose to place a custom Albany console from Artage on the wall opposite to the Verona sideboard. We decorated the console with white accessories from Torre & Tagus and a Bangkok mirror from Renwil. This mirror is a Polanco favourite due to its size and versatility – it matches both classic and modern designs. The round shape of the mirror adds softness and complements the wall sconces.
Furniture Store Ottawa - Ottawa Home StagingMoving into the dining room, we selected the Cordova dining table from Handstone Furniture. The functionality of a pedestal table allowed for more seating so buyers could envision how many guests they could seat in this large open space dining room. We chose the same vintage silver stain on the dining room table as well as on the living room sideboard to create consistency from room to room. To contrast with the darker stain of the table, we paired it with white leather Linda chairs from Elite Living. At the head of the table, the Albany bar cart from Artage in a bright chrome finish completes the room with a unique entertaining piece.
Furniture Store Ottawa - Ottawa Home StagingMatching Linda white leather counter stools were used in the kitchen to create continuity from one room to another. In the family area off of the kitchen, we placed the Melynda swivel chair from Marcantonio Designs in a complementary white leather. The swivel feature on the chair allows buyers to envision how the space would function – if you were sitting in this area you could easily swivel your chair to talk to people in the kitchen as well as enjoying the contemporary fireplace. Opposite this chair is the Melrose love seat upholstered in a light grey linen fabric. It was chosen for its low profile look, as it does not obstruct the view of the beautiful terrace at the back of the house. In the centre of both pieces is the Orion coffee table also in a bright chrome finish. The Orion coffee table, light in design, was a strategic choice, making the room appear larger. Patterned toss cushions complement the geometric texture of the tiled fireplace while bringing the design elements of the space and furniture together.
Furniture Store Ottawa - Ottawa Home StagingIn the master bedroom, we selected the stunning Layla king size bed upholstered in a light grey linen fabric. The soft curve of its headboard complements the curved Capricorn chairs placed in the seating area near the window of this room. Crisp, white linens from Cuddle Down Products were chosen to dress the bed, accentuated by Polanco’s own decorative toss cushions in fabrics from Robert Allen Design. On each side of the bed we chose custom wide Brooklyn nightstands painted in Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace and accentuated with decorative glass knobs. Silver accents are continued throughout the room, as shown with the nailheads on the upholstered bed and occasional chairs, cabinet knobs, lamps, and accessories.
The spare bedroom was designed specifically to allow future home buyers to envision their own furniture in the space. We chose the Linea queen bed in a neutral grey fabric for its simple and elegant design and paired it with crisp white linens from Cuddle Down Products. A silver end table from Torre & Tagus and a silver table lamp from Arteriors Home finish the space.
The entranceway was decorated with a large simple 48” round mirror with a decorative upholstered Thomas bench in a contemporary grey velvet fabric. We accented the design of the entrance bench with toss cushions to create an inviting feel upon entering this exquisite home.
Furniture Store Ottawa - Ottawa Home StagingOpen to the entranceway, the large den has magnificent floor to ceiling windows showcasing the view of the gardens along the Rideau Canal. We chose to show this space as a home office, featuring a live edge solid cherry desk from Harden Furniture. We positioned a Wilson chair in blue fabric at the desk, facing towards the breathtaking views of the canal. To complete this office look, a Timeout chair and ottoman were placed in the corner of the room paired with the Funco side table. Artwork was chosen to create interest and add colour, complementing the contemporary wing back desk chair.
It was a pleasure working with Gemstone Developments on this stunning modern home designed by Barry Hobin Architecture. Our goal was to furnish and decorate the home in such a way that potential buyers could envision themselves living in the space, while also accentuating the existing interior design. We are pleased to announce 894 Colonel By Drive was sold just three months after the staging project was completed.

2013 NARI CAPITAL COTY, MERIT AWARD WINNER, RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN UNDER $40,000
A young family expecting a child just bought their first home, a 1964 colonial in Annandale, Virginia. There were many areas they wanted to renovate, but with the woman of the house being a professional chef, the kitchen was first and foremost.
The existing kitchen was dark and dated. Upon entering the room, all of the appliances were aligned on the far wall, near the doorway to the adjacent dining room. While the original kitchen had a lot of open floor space, it had disconnected workspaces, limited counter space to prepare foods, and was generally dysfunctional.
The new owners wished to create a kitchen that would not only serve as a space to efficiently prepare meals, but also as a mini office area where the chef could have access to cookbooks and a desk for recipe writing. Additionally, it needed to be a welcoming, central part of the home where the family could expect to have many informal meals over the years. The chef desired to have more cabinet space while also adding newer, larger and additional appliances to the footprint, such as a second oven.
The addition of a large (approximately 4 feet by 7 feet) center island increased both the form and function of the room. The turned-legs and glass-faced curio cabinets that greet visitors offer a strong statement. The island maximized efficiency and was equipped with cabinetry and accessories on every side (e.g., spice cabinet, microwave cabinet, double trash can holder) and would even include an overhang on the side by the windows to serve as a breakfast bar. The large island is covered with a white macauba granite, creating a beautiful and expansive prep space.
On the far wall, an airy garden window replaced the flat metal-framed sink window. Below the window sits a large white farm-style sink. The dishwasher and double oven were installed to the right. To the left, a large 29 cubic foot French-door, bottom freezer refrigerator.
The selected maple cabinetry is frost white with pewter glazing. Coupled with the island’s espresso black finish, it creates a great yin-yang contrast and balance to the room. The bright cabinetry, garden window, added recess lights, under cabinet lights, embedded lights under the mantle hearth, and inside cabinet lights with dimmer switches enable this room to be as bright as desired.
The Zen flare to this classic French Country kitchen is complete with the addition of the Sumatran black standing pebble backsplash. These easy to clean stones add great texture and stunning contrast.
The homeowners are extremely satisfied with this new kitchen and are now looking forward to getting the rest of the house renovated.

At Buffum Homes, we believe every custom home should be a reflection of the family who lives there, and this Spring 2026 Parade Home in Grandville, Michigan was a perfect example of that philosophy brought to life.
This one-of-a-kind home showcased the incredible customization and craftsmanship that Buffum Homes is known for throughout West Michigan. From the moment visitors arrived, it was clear this home was something special. Featuring stunning architectural details, thoughtful design elements, and statement pieces around every corner, this home left a lasting impression on everyone who toured it during the HBA Spring Parade of Homes.
Upon entering, guests were welcomed into a breathtaking two-story great room highlighted by a dramatic wall of windows that floods the space with natural light. Opposite the windows, a beautiful masonry fireplace chase extends upward, surrounded by custom built-ins that create a stunning focal point for the room. Looking above, the eye is immediately drawn to the intricate tray ceiling detail, a signature design feature that Buffum Homes loves incorporating to add character, dimension, and visual impact.
Just off the entryway, the home features both a private office and a versatile flex room complete with beautiful built-in cabinetry. The flex room offers endless possibilities and can easily function as an additional bedroom, playroom, music room, hobby space, or whatever best suits a family’s lifestyle.
Flowing seamlessly from the great room is a spacious dining area and an expansive custom kitchen designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen is complemented by a large walk-in pantry, providing ample storage and functionality while maintaining the home’s clean and elegant aesthetic.
Natural daylight pours throughout the entire main floor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in every space. Off the dining area, oversized glass doors lead to a massive covered deck that transitions into an open-air deck space, offering the perfect setting for outdoor living, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying beautiful Michigan evenings.
The mudroom is thoughtfully positioned just off the kitchen and serves as a practical everyday entry point. Complete with a convenient half bath and abundant built-in locker storage for coats, shoes, backpacks, and everyday essentials, the space combines functionality with custom design.
Spanning roughly 1,700 square feet, the main floor was carefully designed to maximize both livability and visual impact. Every room was intentionally crafted to blend beauty, comfort, and practicality, creating a welcoming environment that feels both luxurious and functional.
Ascending to the second floor, homeowners are greeted by a thoughtfully designed upper level offering over 1,100 square feet of comfortable and functional living space.
The spacious primary suite serves as a true retreat, featuring a beautiful cathedral ceiling that enhances the room’s open and airy feel. Large windows provide abundant natural light, creating a peaceful space to unwind at the end of the day.
The luxurious primary bathroom was designed with both comfort and style in mind. It features a custom tiled shower, a relaxing soaking tub, a dual-sink vanity, and plenty of room to move about comfortably. Completing the suite is an oversized walk-in closet with ample storage and organization space.
One of the home’s most practical design features is the direct connection between the walk-in closet and the conveniently located laundry room. The laundry room offers dual access, creating a seamless flow that simplifies everyday living and makes laundry tasks more efficient and accessible.
Also located on the second floor are two generously sized children’s bedrooms along with an additional full bathroom, providing plenty of space for family members or guests. The thoughtful layout balances privacy for the primary suite while maintaining easy access to the secondary bedrooms.
Combining functionality, comfort, and custom design, the second floor perfectly complements the home’s stunning main level while providing over 1,100 square feet of well-planned living space for the entire family.
The finished lower level adds over 1,300 square feet of additional living space, making this home as functional as it is beautiful. Designed with both entertaining and everyday living in mind, the basement features a spacious family room anchored by a stunning custom built-in entertainment center, creating the perfect gathering space for movie nights, sporting events, or simply relaxing with family and friends.
This level also includes two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing comfortable accommodations for guests, older children, or multi-generational living. A dedicated exercise room offers a private space for health and wellness, while still allowing flexibility for future use as hobbies and family needs evolve.
One of the standout features of this lower level is the impressive 9-foot ceilings, which create an open and inviting atmosphere rarely found in traditional basements. Combined with thoughtful design and quality finishes throughout, the space feels like a true extension of the main living areas rather than an afterthought.
In addition to its finished living areas, the basement provides abundant storage space, ensuring homeowners have plenty of room for seasonal items, recreational equipment, and household essentials.
In total, this custom home features over 4,100 square feet of finished living space, including approximately 2,800 square feet above grade and over 1,300 square feet in the finished lower level. The home offers 5 bedrooms, or 6 bedrooms when utilizing the main-floor flex room as a bedroom, 3.5 bathrooms, multiple gathering spaces, a dedicated office, exercise room, expansive outdoor living areas, and countless custom details throughout. Every square foot was intentionally designed to maximize functionality, comfort, and beauty while creating a home uniquely tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle.
Not only was this a beautiful home situated on a stunning site, but it was also a beautiful project that truly showcased the endless customization possibilities available with Buffum Homes. From the thoughtfully designed floor plan to the carefully selected finishes and statement features throughout, every detail reflected the homeowners’ vision and personality.
We were honored to feature this home in the HBA Spring Parade of Homes and share it with the thousands of visitors who toured it throughout the event. It served as a true testament to the craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail that define the Buffum Homes experience.
As you scroll through the photos below, we hope you’ll find inspiration for your own future home and see how thoughtful selections, custom features, and intentional design come together to create something truly special. Let these spaces get your creative juices flowing and help bring your dream home vision to life.

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BC&J Architecture designed a floating home that is now located at its permanent location on the Willamette River in Portland. The home was constructed at a Marina an hour from the final home location. Upon completion, the home was floated up the Willamette River to the current site.
The homeowners were looking for a river side, cottage style house well suited to entertaining. At 2,100 square feet, the home has an open floor plan with a large kitchen opening to a dining room and the living room with views onto the river.
Upstairs, the master bedroom extends toward the river under a large centered dormer. On the opposite side of the master bedroom is a bonus room under a symmetrical dormer that will serve as guest quarters when adult children and grandchildren visit.

The entire CRISTAL range forms part of a solution with structural lines, allowing for a clean, linear design. The various compositions are enriched with HANEX work tops. The result of a sophisticated production process, which merges the quality of the acrylic resin and the rock minerals. It is perfectly stable, extremely hard, smooth and resistant to high temperatures. It ensures high levels of hygiene, making it ideal upon contact with food. The complete CRISTAL range welcomes the trend where natural and eco-sustainable materials take centre stage in daily life.
Respect for nature and human well-being has led to the adoption of water-based paint coatings, applied to the gloss glass CRISTAL doors.

This project is more than meets the eye! In a gorgeous neighborhood in Del Mar, San Diego, California, This unique small custom wine cellar truly acts as a showstopper. Originally within this house, the door which now faces outward used to be around the corner in a small hallway, virtually eliminating any visibility into this contemporary walk in custom wine cellar. Upon seeing the location of this space within the house, Gene Walder and the knowledgeable team at Vintage Cellars knew that to really take advantage of the room provided, (which is actually below the stairs), they needed to get rid of the original door and add a brand new one facing the main living space.
Just a small feat in a series of unique custom features within this cellar!
Here at Vintage Cellars, before any design takes shape, it is vital to understand what the clients wants and needs are based on their growing collection of wine. With a good idea of bottle sizes, shapes (some pinot noir bottles, for example have a wider bottom than a typical cabernet sauvignon bottle) and unique features desired, the team of wine cellar designers and wine cellar builders at Vintage Cellars are able to create a very special and desirable wine cellar for each client.
The owners of this beautiful home collaborated heavily with the Vintage Cellars team in the design process of this rustic custom wine cellar - something that we aim to do with every project. The homeowners wanted to showcase some of their favorite Magnum sized bottles in a high reveal horizontal display row, directly on top of another area highlighting the best 750 ml's in their collection.
This small custom wine room fills most of the left wall with single deep, individual bottle storage. Directly below this wine racking is room for wine case / wine bin storage. Centered within this wall is a nice space for opening and decanting wines with a gorgeous dark stone countertop and room for hanging wine glasses above.
The opposite wall is filled floor to ceiling with label revealing horizontal display rows. Again, this type of feature is very desirable in recent years. Homeowners want to be able to showcase the best bottles they own within their custom wine cellars in the most stunning and beautiful ways possible. Additionally, this feature is commonly replicated with metal bars for a more contemporary and modern look and feel.
Within Beach Cities such as Del Mar, La Jolla, Cardiff, Coronado, Rancho Santa Fe, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Newport Beach and Orange County alike, small walk wine cellars are all the rage. Custom Wine Closet s and Under the Stairs Custom Wine Room s are quickly becoming a commonplace feature within modern luxury homes.
Funny enough, because San Diego has become such a hub and mecca for craft beer breweries, luxury homes within communities such as La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Coronado, Cardiff, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, La Costa and Torrey Pines have taken notice and began including space for unique beer storage within their custom wine cellars as well.
This right side wall horizontal display racking does just that. If you look closely, those intricately labeled bottles are craft brews kept at a chill and refreshing 55 Degrees- just waiting to be opened and enjoyed immediately.
Just when you thought the custom wine cellar tour was over, another unique feature catches your eye. You see the back stone wall? Press ever so gently in the top left corner two thirds of the way up and - Voila! - a secret door appears and slowly reveals more room under the stairway for case storage and the like.
The homeowner also decided to add interesting lighting to this cellar. The Custom wine room can turn any color of the rainbow - allowing you to focus on all lights or just one a time, creating that perfect mood lighting for the holidays, springtime, or summer.
This entire custom wine cellar and all wine racking were done in raw black walnut.
Vintage Cellars has built gorgeous custom wine cellars and wine storage rooms across the United States and World for over 25 years. We are your go-to business for anything wine cellar and wine storage related! Whether you're interested in a wine closet, wine racking, custom wine racks, a custom wine cellar door, or a cooling system for your existing space, Vintage Cellars has you covered!
We carry all kinds of wine cellar cooling and refrigeration systems, incuding: Breezaire, CellarCool, WhisperKool, Wine Guardian, CellarPro and Commercial systems.
We also carry many types of Wine Refrigerators, Wine Cabinets, and wine racking types, including La Cache, Marvel, N'Finity, Transtherm, Vinotheque, Vintage Series, Credenza, Walk in wine rooms, Climadiff, Riedel, Fontenay, and VintageView.
Vintage Cellars also does work in many styles, including Contemporary and Modern, Rustic, Farmhouse, Traditional, Craftsman, Industrial, Mediterranean, Mid-Century, Industrial and Eclectic.
Some locations we cover often include: San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Corona Del Mar, Del Mar, La Jolla, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Huntington Beach, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, Orange County, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Bel Air, Los Angeles, Encinitas, Cardiff, Coronado, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, San Marino, Ladera Heights, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Westwood, Hancock Park, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove, Laguna Niguel, Torrey Pines, Thousand Oaks, Coto De Caza, Coronado Island, San Francisco, Danville, Walnut Creek, Marin, Tiburon, Hillsborough, Berkeley, Oakland, Napa, Sonoma, Agoura Hills, Hollywood Hills, Laurel Canyon, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Piedmont, Paso Robles, Carmel, Pebble Beach
Contact Vintage Cellars today with any of your Wine Cellar needs!
(800) 876-8789
Vintage Cellars
904 Rancheros Drive
San Marcos, California 92069
(800) 876-8789

Quinn and Paige, residents of this tired 1960’s tri-level home hated their kitchen. As a matter of fact, prior to making plans to renovate the first floor - they considered selling the home, but were reluctant because of its enviable location near the heart of downtown Barrington which was within walking distance to local stores and all their favorite places. So instead they contacted Advance Design Studio after hearing about them from a neighbor, to rescue their tired home and give it new life.
The very first plan was to remove the constricting walls surrounding the original kitchen, and open the expansive first floor living room and dining area to the new heart of the space; a stunning state of the art coastal designed kitchen. Exposing attractive beams in the vaulted ceiling created an interesting structural detail that suits the open plan and salutes the original architecture of the home, further emphasizing the height of the new space enjoyed now by the family as a great room.
The stage was set for the seaside feel of this kitchen by pairing crisp white painted maple cabinets with Dura Supreme’s one of kind hand weathered finish on the island in soft blue-green finish. But the authentic feeling of being on your favorite beach was supremely achieved by the matching of unique Mt. Claire marble on the island and the specialty Wareham acid washed stone on the perimeter counter tops. Pictures don’t do justice to the feel of this stone under your hand; its water-washed texture reminds instantly of summer vacations collecting rocks softly etched by hundreds of waves.
Stainless steel appliances and satin nickel hardware shine brightly against the backdrop of bright white subway tiles accentuated by subtle grey grout lines contributing to the nautical feel of this comfortable kitchen. Seeded glass door cabinetry reminiscent of beach grasses dress up the space just enough, and a proud 6” stacked crown molding extends above 36” wall cabinets into the expanse of the now taller space; balancing this kitchen nicely within its newly integrated home.
Features in this kitchen include a built in standard depth refrigerator, pull out spice racks, tall tray dividers and wood super Susan with double pull out trash and recycling. A cutlery divider holds sharp knives, and an angled cabinet was customized to hold a secret USB charging station. The bright white Kohler farm sink is graced by an elegant bridge faucet in brushed nickel. This now airy and spacious kitchen has room for guest and family to congregate around the large island, complete with stools and attractive hidden storage for seldom used entertainment pieces.
“I was sold when I saw the drawings. My designer nailed it, down to every last storage idea and coastal detail I envisioned, it was all in there. It was unbelievable how accurate her interpretation was of what was in my head; working with her made my kitchen renovation so easy, it’s as if she literally read my mind”, said Paige enthusiastically.
The woman of the house expressed upon completion not only her love for her fantastic new cooking space, but how renovating her kitchen has given new life to the entire home. Talk of moving has been relegated to the recycling bin, and instead the family is discussing plans to renovate the master bath now that they’ve decided to stay for the long term. Friends who visit the home do a double-take as they recognize the new space’s dramatic transformation from original cramped and closed spaces - to the now amazingly fresh open kitchen that has become the center of every gathering and family meal.
Designer: Nicole Ryan
Photographer: Joe Nowak

The owners of this kitchen had spent the money to upgrade the finishes in their kitchen upon building the home 12 years ago, but after living in the space for several years they realized how nonfunctional the layout really was. The (then) two preschool aged children had grown into busy, hungry teenagers with many friends who also liked to hang out at the house. So the family needed a more functional kitchen with better traffic flow, space for daily activities revolving around the kitchen at different times of day, and a kitchen that could accommodate cooking for and serving large groups. Furthermore, the dark, traditional finishes no longer reflected the homeowners’ style. They requested a brighter, more relaxed, coastal style that reflected their love of the seaside cities they like to visit.
Originally, the kitchen was U-shaped with a narrow island in the middle. The island created narrow aisles that bottle-necked at the dishwasher, refrigerator, and cooktop areas. There was a pass-through from the foyer into the kitchen, but the owners never liked that the pass-through was also located so close to the powder room. The awkward proximity was unappealing and made guests feel uncomfortable.
The kitchen’s storage was made up of lots of narrow cabinets, apothecary drawers, clipped corner units, and very few drawers. It lacked useful storage for the larger items the family used on a daily basis. And the kitchen’s only pantry was small closet that had only builder-grade, narrow shelving with no illumination to be able to see the contents inside.
Overall, the kitchen’s lighting plan was poorly executed. Only six recessed cans illuminated the entire kitchen and nook areas. The under cabinet lighting was not evenly distributed either. In fact, the builder had mis-placed the under cabinet lighting around the decorative pilasters which made for choppy, dark cubbies. Further, the builder didn’t include any lighting over the sink or the bar area, which meant whoever was doing the dishes was always in their own shadow. That, coupled with the steep overhang of the game room above made the bar area feel like a dim, cavernous space that wasn’t inviting or task oriented. The kitchen looked out into the main living space, but the raised bar and a narrow wall (which held the only large cabinet in the kitchen) created more of a barrier than a relationship to the living room or breakfast nook. In fact, one couldn’t even see the breakfast nook from the cooktop or sink areas due to its orientation. The raised bar top was too narrow to comfortably sit to either dine at or chat from due to the lack of knee space. The the homeowners confided that the kitchen felt more like a dark, dirty prison than place where the family, or their guests, wanted to gather and commune.
The clients' needs and desires were:
➢ to create a kitchen that would be a space the family loved to be in; to relate to the adjacent spaces all around, and to have better flow for entertaining large groups
➢ to remove the walls between the breakfast nook and living area and to be able to utilize the natural light from the windows in both those areas
➢ to incorporate a functional chopping block for prepping fresh food for home cooked meals, an island with a large sink and drain board, 2 pull out trash cans, and seating for at least the 2 teens to eat or do homework
➢ to design a kitchen and breakfast nook with an airy, coastal, relaxed vibe that blended with the rest of the house's coastal theme
➢ to integrate a layered lighting plan which would include ample general illumination, specific task lighting, decorative lighting, and lots of illuminated storage
➢ to design a kitchen with not only more storage for all the husband’s kitchen gadgets and collection of oils and spices, but smart storage, including a coffee/breakfast bar and a place to store and conceal the toaster oven and microwave
➢ to find a way to utilize the large open space between the kitchen, pantry area, and breakfast nook
Twelve Stones Designs achieved the owner's goals by:
➢ removing the walls between the kitchen and living room to allow the natural light to filter in from the adjacent rooms and to create a connection between the kitchen, nook, and living spaces for a sense of unity and communion
➢ removing the existing pantry and designing 3 large pantry style cabinets with LED tape lights and rollout drawers to house lots of kitchen appliances, gadgets, and tons of groceries. We also took the cabinets all the way up to the 9’ ceiling for additional storage for seasonal items and bulk storage.
➢ designing 2 islands - 1 with a gorgeous black walnut chopping block that houses a drawer for chopping and carving knives and a custom double pull out trash unit for point of use utilization - and 1 that houses the dishwasher, a large Blanco Gourmet sink with integrated drain board, woven baskets for fresh root vegetables and kitchen towels, plenty of drawer storage for kitchen items, and bar seating for up to 4 diners.
➢ closing off the space between the kitchen and the powder room to create a beautiful new private alcove for the powder room as well as adding some decorative storage. This also gave us space to include more tall storage near the new range for precision placement of the husband’s extensive oil and spice collection as well as a location for a combo-steam oven the wife wanted for baking and cooking healthy meals.
The project is enhanced functionally by:
➢ incorporated USB and standard receptacles for the kids’ laptops and phone charging in the large island
➢ designing the small island to include additional open shelving for items used on a daily basis such as a variety of bowls, plates, and colanders. This set up also works well for the husband who prefers to “plate” his dinners in restaurant-style fashion before presenting them to the table.
➢ the integration of specific storage units, such as double stacked cutlery drawers, a custom spice pull-out, a Kuerig coffee and tea pod drawer, and custom double stacked utensil drawers
➢ moving the refrigerator to the old oven location - this eliminated the bottle neck as well as created a better relationship to the eating table. It also utilizes the floor space between the pantry, nook, and kitchen
➢ creating a banquet style breakfast nook - this banquette seating not only doubles the amount of seating for large gatherings but it better utilizes the odd space between the kitchen and the previous nook area. It also helps to create a distinct pathway from the mudroom room through the pantry area, kitchen, nook, and living room.
➢ the coffee/breakfast bar area which includes the perfect location for the concealed microwave and toaster oven, convenient storage for the coffee pods and tea accoutrements. Roll-out drawers below also house the smoothie maker, hot water kettle, and a plethora of smoothie-making ingredients such as protein powders, smoothie additives, etc. Furthermore, the drawers below the Keurig house measuring utensil, cutlery, baking supplies and tupperware storage.
➢ incorporating lots of wide drawers and pullouts to accommodate large cookware.
➢ utilizing as much vertical space as possible by building storage to the ceiling which accommodates the family’s abundant amount of serving platters, baking sheets, bakeware, casserole dishes, and additional cutting boards.
The project is enhanced aesthetically by:
➢ new 5-piece Versailles pattern porcelain tile that now seamlessly joins the entire down stairs area together creating a bright, cohesiveness feeling instead of choppy separated spaces - it also adds a coastal feeling
➢ designing a cabinet to conceal the microwave and toaster oven
➢ the coastal influenced light fixtures over the nook table and island
➢ the sandy colors of the Langdon Cambria countertops. The swirling pattern and sparkling quartz pieces remind the homeowner of black-and-tan sandy beaches
➢ the striped banquet seating whose creamy white background and blue-green stripes were the inspiration for the cabinet and wall colors.
➢ All the interior doors were painted black to coordinate with the blacks and grays in the backsplash tile and countertop. This also adds a hint of tailored formality to an otherwise casual space.
➢ the use of WAC's Oculux small aperture LED units for the overhead lighting complimented with Diode LED strips for task lighting under the cabinets and inside the pantry and glass wall cabinets. All of the lighting applications are on separate dimmer switches.
Innovative uses of materials or construction methods by Realty Restoration LLC:
➢ Each 1-1/2” x 3” block of reclaimed end-grain black walnut that makes up the center island chopping block was hand milled and built in the shop. It was designed to look substantial and proportional to the surrounding elements, executed by creating the 4 inch tall top with a solid wood chamfered edge band.
➢ The metal doors on either side of the vent hood were also custom designed for this project and built in the Realty Restoration LLC shop. They are made 1x2, 11-gauge mild steel with ribbed glass. Weighing 60 lbs a piece, heavy duty cabinet hinges were added to support the weight of the door and keep them from sagging.
➢ Under-cabinet receptacles were added along the range wall in order to have a clean, uninterrupted backsplash.
Design obstacles to overcome:
➢ Because we were removing the demising walls between the kitchen and living room, we had to find a way to plumb and vent the new island. We did this by tunneling through the slab (the slab had post tension cables which prevented us from just trenching) to run a new wet vent through a nearby structural wall. We pulled the existing hot and cold lines between upper floor joists and ran them down the structural wall as well and up through a conduit in the tunnel.
➢ Since we were converting from wall overs to a gas range it allowed us to utilize the 220 feed for the wall ovens to provide a new sub panel for all the new kitchen circuits
➢ Due to framing deficiencies inherited from the original build there was a 1-1/2” differential in the floor-to-ceiling height over a 20 foot span; by utilizing the process of cutting and furring coupled with the crown moulding details on the cabinet elevations we were able to mask the problem and provide seamless transitions between the cabinet components.
Evidence of superior craftsmanship:
➢ uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind metal “X” end panels on the large island. The end panels were custom made in the Realty Restoration LLC shop and fitted to the exact dimensions of the island. The welding seams are completely indistinguishable - the posts look like they are cut from a single sheet of metal
➢ square metal posts on the small island were also custom made and designed to compliment and carry through the metal element s throughout the kitchen
➢ the beautiful, oversized end panels on the pantry cabinets which give the breakfast nook a tailored look
➢ integrating a large format 5 piece Versailles tile pattern to seamlessly flow from the existing spaces into the new kitchen space
➢ By constructing a custom cabinet that jogged around a corner we could not remodel (housing the entry way coat closet) we were able to camouflage the adjacent wall offset within the upper and lower cabinets. By designing around the existing jog in the structural walls we accomplished a few things: we were able to find the space to house, and hide, the microwave and toaster oven yet still have a clean cohesive appearance from the kitchen side. Additionally, the owners were able to keep their much needed coat closet and we didn’t have to increase the budget with unnecessary structural work.

This project is more than meets the eye! In a gorgeous neighborhood in Del Mar, San Diego, California, This unique small custom wine cellar truly acts as a showstopper. Originally within this house, the door which now faces outward used to be around the corner in a small hallway, virtually eliminating any visibility into this contemporary walk in custom wine cellar. Upon seeing the location of this space within the house, Gene Walder and the knowledgeable team at Vintage Cellars knew that to really take advantage of the room provided, (which is actually below the stairs), they needed to get rid of the original door and add a brand new one facing the main living space.
Just a small feat in a series of unique custom features within this cellar!
Here at Vintage Cellars, before any design takes shape, it is vital to understand what the clients wants and needs are based on their growing collection of wine. With a good idea of bottle sizes, shapes (some pinot noir bottles, for example have a wider bottom than a typical cabernet sauvignon bottle) and unique features desired, the team of wine cellar designers and wine cellar builders at Vintage Cellars are able to create a very special and desirable wine cellar for each client.
The owners of this beautiful home collaborated heavily with the Vintage Cellars team in the design process of this rustic custom wine cellar - something that we aim to do with every project. The homeowners wanted to showcase some of their favorite Magnum sized bottles in a high reveal horizontal display row, directly on top of another area highlighting the best 750 ml's in their collection.
This small custom wine room fills most of the left wall with single deep, individual bottle storage. Directly below this wine racking is room for wine case / wine bin storage. Centered within this wall is a nice space for opening and decanting wines with a gorgeous dark stone countertop and room for hanging wine glasses above.
The opposite wall is filled floor to ceiling with label revealing horizontal display rows. Again, this type of feature is very desirable in recent years. Homeowners want to be able to showcase the best bottles they own within their custom wine cellars in the most stunning and beautiful ways possible. Additionally, this feature is commonly replicated with metal bars for a more contemporary and modern look and feel.
Within Beach Cities such as Del Mar, La Jolla, Cardiff, Coronado, Rancho Santa Fe, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Newport Beach and Orange County alike, small walk wine cellars are all the rage. Custom Wine Closet s and Under the Stairs Custom Wine Room s are quickly becoming a commonplace feature within modern luxury homes.
Funny enough, because San Diego has become such a hub and mecca for craft beer breweries, luxury homes within communities such as La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Coronado, Cardiff, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, La Costa and Torrey Pines have taken notice and began including space for unique beer storage within their custom wine cellars as well.
This right side wall horizontal display racking does just that. If you look closely, those intricately labeled bottles are craft brews kept at a chill and refreshing 55 Degrees- just waiting to be opened and enjoyed immediately.
Just when you thought the custom wine cellar tour was over, another unique feature catches your eye. You see the back stone wall? Press ever so gently in the top left corner two thirds of the way up and - Voila! - a secret door appears and slowly reveals more room under the stairway for case storage and the like.
The homeowner also decided to add interesting lighting to this cellar. The Custom wine room can turn any color of the rainbow - allowing you to focus on all lights or just one a time, creating that perfect mood lighting for the holidays, springtime, or summer.
This entire custom wine cellar and all wine racking were done in raw black walnut.
Vintage Cellars has built gorgeous custom wine cellars and wine storage rooms across the United States and World for over 25 years. We are your go-to business for anything wine cellar and wine storage related! Whether you're interested in a wine closet, wine racking, custom wine racks, a custom wine cellar door, or a cooling system for your existing space, Vintage Cellars has you covered!
We carry all kinds of wine cellar cooling and refrigeration systems, incuding: Breezaire, CellarCool, WhisperKool, Wine Guardian, CellarPro and Commercial systems.
We also carry many types of Wine Refrigerators, Wine Cabinets, and wine racking types, including La Cache, Marvel, N'Finity, Transtherm, Vinotheque, Vintage Series, Credenza, Walk in wine rooms, Climadiff, Riedel, Fontenay, and VintageView.
Vintage Cellars also does work in many styles, including Contemporary and Modern, Rustic, Farmhouse, Traditional, Craftsman, Industrial, Mediterranean, Mid-Century, Industrial and Eclectic.
Some locations we cover often include: San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Corona Del Mar, Del Mar, La Jolla, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Huntington Beach, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, Orange County, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Bel Air, Los Angeles, Encinitas, Cardiff, Coronado, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, San Marino, Ladera Heights, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Westwood, Hancock Park, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove, Laguna Niguel, Torrey Pines, Thousand Oaks, Coto De Caza, Coronado Island, San Francisco, Danville, Walnut Creek, Marin, Tiburon, Hillsborough, Berkeley, Oakland, Napa, Sonoma, Agoura Hills, Hollywood Hills, Laurel Canyon, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Piedmont, Paso Robles, Carmel, Pebble Beach
Contact Vintage Cellars today with any of your Wine Cellar needs!
(800) 876-8789
Vintage Cellars
904 Rancheros Drive
San Marcos, California 92069
(800) 876-8789

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Quinn and Paige, residents of this tired 1960’s tri-level home hated their kitchen. As a matter of fact, prior to making plans to renovate the first floor - they considered selling the home, but were reluctant because of its enviable location near the heart of downtown Barrington which was within walking distance to local stores and all their favorite places. So instead they contacted Advance Design Studio after hearing about them from a neighbor, to rescue their tired home and give it new life.
The very first plan was to remove the constricting walls surrounding the original kitchen, and open the expansive first floor living room and dining area to the new heart of the space; a stunning state of the art coastal designed kitchen. Exposing attractive beams in the vaulted ceiling created an interesting structural detail that suits the open plan and salutes the original architecture of the home, further emphasizing the height of the new space enjoyed now by the family as a great room.
The stage was set for the seaside feel of this kitchen by pairing crisp white painted maple cabinets with Dura Supreme’s one of kind hand weathered finish on the island in soft blue-green finish. But the authentic feeling of being on your favorite beach was supremely achieved by the matching of unique Mt. Claire marble on the island and the specialty Wareham acid washed stone on the perimeter counter tops. Pictures don’t do justice to the feel of this stone under your hand; its water-washed texture reminds instantly of summer vacations collecting rocks softly etched by hundreds of waves.
Stainless steel appliances and satin nickel hardware shine brightly against the backdrop of bright white subway tiles accentuated by subtle grey grout lines contributing to the nautical feel of this comfortable kitchen. Seeded glass door cabinetry reminiscent of beach grasses dress up the space just enough, and a proud 6” stacked crown molding extends above 36” wall cabinets into the expanse of the now taller space; balancing this kitchen nicely within its newly integrated home.
Features in this kitchen include a built in standard depth refrigerator, pull out spice racks, tall tray dividers and wood super Susan with double pull out trash and recycling. A cutlery divider holds sharp knives, and an angled cabinet was customized to hold a secret USB charging station. The bright white Kohler farm sink is graced by an elegant bridge faucet in brushed nickel. This now airy and spacious kitchen has room for guest and family to congregate around the large island, complete with stools and attractive hidden storage for seldom used entertainment pieces.
“I was sold when I saw the drawings. My designer nailed it, down to every last storage idea and coastal detail I envisioned, it was all in there. It was unbelievable how accurate her interpretation was of what was in my head; working with her made my kitchen renovation so easy, it’s as if she literally read my mind”, said Paige enthusiastically.
The woman of the house expressed upon completion not only her love for her fantastic new cooking space, but how renovating her kitchen has given new life to the entire home. Talk of moving has been relegated to the recycling bin, and instead the family is discussing plans to renovate the master bath now that they’ve decided to stay for the long term. Friends who visit the home do a double-take as they recognize the new space’s dramatic transformation from original cramped and closed spaces - to the now amazingly fresh open kitchen that has become the center of every gathering and family meal.
Designer: Nicole Ryan
Photographer: Joe Nowak

With the pending arrival of a beautiful baby girl, the homeowners of this 1928 Minneapolis Tudor wanted a basement that was conducive to a young child, but would still allow a place for family to gather and the occasional house guest. The original basement was typical; cold, lacking natural light with tiny, uncomfortably confined rooms and that “unique” basement smell. The goal was to reverse all of the ill effects of a rarely unappreciated space while increasing the performance of the older home.
The frigid temperatures and wet, mildew odor was remedied by demolishing the entire slab floor and excavating to gain an extra six inches in ceiling height. It also allowed us to insulate to R-15, moisture proof under the new slab, install a drain tile and sump pump. Within the concrete slab is a hydronic, in-floor radiant heating system which further helps to add comfort to the space. Lastly, we also sprayed a closed-cell, expanding urethane foam on the inside of the foundation walls all the way to the first floor.
To help bring more light down to the basement, we started by opening up the staircase on both sides. A curved wall bends light into the lower level while a countertop and cubbies below provide storage space for odds and ends. On the opposite wall, creatively placed cubbies provide places for paintings, ceramics and plants. We also removed the tiny 18” x 34” window on the south wall and installed a full-sized, high-efficiency, triple pane Pella egress window. To let lots of natural light into the window, we expanded the size of the cedar-lined egress well and included a built-in planter at the base to help bring life into an otherwise empty cavity.
Small, unspecified spaces that became storage areas now have purpose. The areas are defined, yet open. Upon descending down the stairs, one is greeted by a large living room with curved walls, custom design media center, built-in daybed and bookshelves. Use of paint was important in the design. Naturally in older homes basements are going to have exposed beams, soffits and a whole gambit of nooks and crannies. Instead of disguising them, we played them up, which created a layer effect with the color. The color also adds a touch of playfulness which anyone, regardless of age, can enjoy.
We scavenged the client’s garage and discovered that the previous homeowner kept the old, full-view glass front entry door in the garage. We re-installed the original glass knob and attached the door to sliding barn door hardware which was attached to the main structural beam of the lower level. On the other side of the door was the homeowners’ combined office and small fitness area. The office floor is a blend of thin strips of different colored cork. A built-in storage cabinet sits across from a site-built desk which forms to the curve of the dividing wall. A small, square hole in the curved wall provides a view to see who is coming down the stairs. Opposite of the office area and directly at the base of the stairs is a place for the homeowner’s treadmill.
Hidden is the mechanical room, which is home to many green and energy efficient products. The washing machine is a low-water consumption unit while the dryer requires less energy to operate than most standard units. Both sit atop a checkerboard pattern of different colored VCT tiles. We also replaced the aging boiler, which only heated the first and second level, with a 95% efficient heat source for the entire house—including the basement.
Behind the curved wall, the bathroom is conveniently located. A large, custom built no-formaldehyde added vanity supports the slab of remnant granite countertop. A piece of eco-resin wall panel, embedded with organic material, contains water in the shower and blends beautifully with the updated colors. Tucked under the stairs, we installed a dual-flush, low-water consumption toilet.
Through creative space planning, we packed a lot of into a rather small space. As a result, we have three very happy homeowners who are enjoying their light, clean and safe lower level of their home—however, they’ve been hard pressed to think of it as a “basement”.
highlights
Moisture management system
Insulated slab
Hydronic in-floor heat
Formaldehyde free cabinetry
MN-made custom cabinets
Ultra-low VOC paints
Wool carpet
Dual-flush toilet
Cork floor
No recessed lights
Cedar egress window well with planter
Re-used door
Eco-resin

This project is more than meets the eye! In a gorgeous neighborhood in Del Mar, San Diego, California, This unique small custom wine cellar truly acts as a showstopper. Originally within this house, the door which now faces outward used to be around the corner in a small hallway, virtually eliminating any visibility into this contemporary walk in custom wine cellar. Upon seeing the location of this space within the house, Gene Walder and the knowledgeable team at Vintage Cellars knew that to really take advantage of the room provided, (which is actually below the stairs), they needed to get rid of the original door and add a brand new one facing the main living space.
Just a small feat in a series of unique custom features within this cellar!
Here at Vintage Cellars, before any design takes shape, it is vital to understand what the clients wants and needs are based on their growing collection of wine. With a good idea of bottle sizes, shapes (some pinot noir bottles, for example have a wider bottom than a typical cabernet sauvignon bottle) and unique features desired, the team of wine cellar designers and wine cellar builders at Vintage Cellars are able to create a very special and desirable wine cellar for each client.
The owners of this beautiful home collaborated heavily with the Vintage Cellars team in the design process of this rustic custom wine cellar - something that we aim to do with every project. The homeowners wanted to showcase some of their favorite Magnum sized bottles in a high reveal horizontal display row, directly on top of another area highlighting the best 750 ml's in their collection.
This small custom wine room fills most of the left wall with single deep, individual bottle storage. Directly below this wine racking is room for wine case / wine bin storage. Centered within this wall is a nice space for opening and decanting wines with a gorgeous dark stone countertop and room for hanging wine glasses above.
The opposite wall is filled floor to ceiling with label revealing horizontal display rows. Again, this type of feature is very desirable in recent years. Homeowners want to be able to showcase the best bottles they own within their custom wine cellars in the most stunning and beautiful ways possible. Additionally, this feature is commonly replicated with metal bars for a more contemporary and modern look and feel.
Within Beach Cities such as Del Mar, La Jolla, Cardiff, Coronado, Rancho Santa Fe, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Newport Beach and Orange County alike, small walk wine cellars are all the rage. Custom Wine Closet s and Under the Stairs Custom Wine Room s are quickly becoming a commonplace feature within modern luxury homes.
Funny enough, because San Diego has become such a hub and mecca for craft beer breweries, luxury homes within communities such as La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Coronado, Cardiff, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, La Costa and Torrey Pines have taken notice and began including space for unique beer storage within their custom wine cellars as well.
This right side wall horizontal display racking does just that. If you look closely, those intricately labeled bottles are craft brews kept at a chill and refreshing 55 Degrees- just waiting to be opened and enjoyed immediately.
Just when you thought the custom wine cellar tour was over, another unique feature catches your eye. You see the back stone wall? Press ever so gently in the top left corner two thirds of the way up and - Voila! - a secret door appears and slowly reveals more room under the stairway for case storage and the like.
The homeowner also decided to add interesting lighting to this cellar. The Custom wine room can turn any color of the rainbow - allowing you to focus on all lights or just one a time, creating that perfect mood lighting for the holidays, springtime, or summer.
This entire custom wine cellar and all wine racking were done in raw black walnut.
Vintage Cellars has built gorgeous custom wine cellars and wine storage rooms across the United States and World for over 25 years. We are your go-to business for anything wine cellar and wine storage related! Whether you're interested in a wine closet, wine racking, custom wine racks, a custom wine cellar door, or a cooling system for your existing space, Vintage Cellars has you covered!
We carry all kinds of wine cellar cooling and refrigeration systems, incuding: Breezaire, CellarCool, WhisperKool, Wine Guardian, CellarPro and Commercial systems.
We also carry many types of Wine Refrigerators, Wine Cabinets, and wine racking types, including La Cache, Marvel, N'Finity, Transtherm, Vinotheque, Vintage Series, Credenza, Walk in wine rooms, Climadiff, Riedel, Fontenay, and VintageView.
Vintage Cellars also does work in many styles, including Contemporary and Modern, Rustic, Farmhouse, Traditional, Craftsman, Industrial, Mediterranean, Mid-Century, Industrial and Eclectic.
Some locations we cover often include: San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Corona Del Mar, Del Mar, La Jolla, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Huntington Beach, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Carlsbad, Orange County, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Bel Air, Los Angeles, Encinitas, Cardiff, Coronado, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, San Marino, Ladera Heights, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Westwood, Hancock Park, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove, Laguna Niguel, Torrey Pines, Thousand Oaks, Coto De Caza, Coronado Island, San Francisco, Danville, Walnut Creek, Marin, Tiburon, Hillsborough, Berkeley, Oakland, Napa, Sonoma, Agoura Hills, Hollywood Hills, Laurel Canyon, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Piedmont, Paso Robles, Carmel, Pebble Beach
Contact Vintage Cellars today with any of your Wine Cellar needs!
(800) 876-8789
Vintage Cellars
904 Rancheros Drive
San Marcos, California 92069
(800) 876-8789

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Trish Takacs Design
Award Winning & Highly Skilled Kitchen & Bath Designer in Columbus

Upon entering the basement, a large refrigeration center was installed to house wines and other beverages for entertaining. The textured stone framing this storage wall accentuates the rustic design of the space through the natural materials and tones while the details of each cabinet showcase the straight vertical and horizontal lines of this contemporary design.

Quinn and Paige, residents of this tired 1960’s tri-level home hated their kitchen. As a matter of fact, prior to making plans to renovate the first floor - they considered selling the home, but were reluctant because of its enviable location near the heart of downtown Barrington which was within walking distance to local stores and all their favorite places. So instead they contacted Advance Design Studio after hearing about them from a neighbor, to rescue their tired home and give it new life.
The very first plan was to remove the constricting walls surrounding the original kitchen, and open the expansive first floor living room and dining area to the new heart of the space; a stunning state of the art coastal designed kitchen. Exposing attractive beams in the vaulted ceiling created an interesting structural detail that suits the open plan and salutes the original architecture of the home, further emphasizing the height of the new space enjoyed now by the family as a great room.
The stage was set for the seaside feel of this kitchen by pairing crisp white painted maple cabinets with Dura Supreme’s one of kind hand weathered finish on the island in soft blue-green finish. But the authentic feeling of being on your favorite beach was supremely achieved by the matching of unique Mt. Claire marble on the island and the specialty Wareham acid washed stone on the perimeter counter tops. Pictures don’t do justice to the feel of this stone under your hand; its water-washed texture reminds instantly of summer vacations collecting rocks softly etched by hundreds of waves.
Stainless steel appliances and satin nickel hardware shine brightly against the backdrop of bright white subway tiles accentuated by subtle grey grout lines contributing to the nautical feel of this comfortable kitchen. Seeded glass door cabinetry reminiscent of beach grasses dress up the space just enough, and a proud 6” stacked crown molding extends above 36” wall cabinets into the expanse of the now taller space; balancing this kitchen nicely within its newly integrated home.
Features in this kitchen include a built in standard depth refrigerator, pull out spice racks, tall tray dividers and wood super Susan with double pull out trash and recycling. A cutlery divider holds sharp knives, and an angled cabinet was customized to hold a secret USB charging station. The bright white Kohler farm sink is graced by an elegant bridge faucet in brushed nickel. This now airy and spacious kitchen has room for guest and family to congregate around the large island, complete with stools and attractive hidden storage for seldom used entertainment pieces.
“I was sold when I saw the drawings. My designer nailed it, down to every last storage idea and coastal detail I envisioned, it was all in there. It was unbelievable how accurate her interpretation was of what was in my head; working with her made my kitchen renovation so easy, it’s as if she literally read my mind”, said Paige enthusiastically.
The woman of the house expressed upon completion not only her love for her fantastic new cooking space, but how renovating her kitchen has given new life to the entire home. Talk of moving has been relegated to the recycling bin, and instead the family is discussing plans to renovate the master bath now that they’ve decided to stay for the long term. Friends who visit the home do a double-take as they recognize the new space’s dramatic transformation from original cramped and closed spaces - to the now amazingly fresh open kitchen that has become the center of every gathering and family meal.
Designer: Nicole Ryan
Photographer: Joe Nowak

This British Colonial theme new residence sits atop the ridgeline on the west end of Sanibel Island overlooking the Gulf. Carefully manicured dune and beach access offer breathtaking views from the main and upper patios of the residence to the beach and the sunset.
A lush, tropical entry runs the length of each side property line from the road, along each side of the house, to the CCCL line and provides a dense privacy barrier from the beach access path along the east property line. Tropical bamboo, white bird of paradise, traveler palms, dwarf leaf clusia and relocated native trees and shrubs make up the dense buffer.
In the front of the residence a specimen multi-stem Sylvester Date Palm anchors the center drive island while stately royal palms, foxtail palms and multi-stem adonidia palms accent the foundation of the residence. Curved coconut palms march down the driveway to the street. Individual theme gardens were created in the side yards which include a Moon Garden, Fruit Garden, Butterfly Garden, Wetland Garden, Tropical Garden and Bamboo Garden.
Architectural garden elements include a Walpole garden gate, arbor and mail box with a custom house name sign attached. As one walks the many different specimen gardens, large concrete garden benches from Curry & Co. offer a place to pause while botanical plant label stakes indicate plant species and origin. A California style espalier wall with confederate jasmine vine softens the back side of the pool wall, which is visible upon the entrance to the garages and espalier on the pool side wall for trellis bougainvillea offer vertical elements to connect the house and the landscape with tropical vegetation and color.
This ideal client had a specific idea for their property which we were able to visualize and bring to reality.
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