Search results for "Upon center" in Home Design Ideas

River Homes
Civic, Pedestrian, and Personal Scale
Our urban design strategy to create a modern, traditional neighborhood centered around three distinct yet connected levels of scale – civic, pedestrian, and personal.
The civic connection with the city, the Milwaukee River and the adjacent Kilbourn Park was addressed via the main thoroughfare, street extensions and the River Walk. The relationship to pedestrian scale was achieved by fronting each building to its corresponding street or river edge. Utilizing elevated entries and main living levels provides a non-intimidating distinction between public and private. The open, loft-like qualities of each individual living unit, coupled with the historical context of the tract supports the personal scale of the design.
The Beerline “mini-block” – patterned after a typical city block - is configured to allow for each individual building to address its respective street or river edge while creating an internal alley or “auto court”. The river-facing units, each with four levels of living space, incorporate rooftop garden terraces which serve as natural, sunlit pavilions in an urban setting.
In an effort to integrate our typical urban neighborhood with the context of an industrial corridor, we relied upon thoughtful connections to materials such as brick, stucco, and fine woods, thus creating a feeling of refined elegance in balance with the “sculpture” of the historic warehouses across the Milwaukee River.
Urban Diversity
The Beerline River Homes provide a walkable connection to the city, the beautiful Milwaukee River, and the surrounding environs. The diversity of these custom homes is evident not only in the unique association of the units to the specific “edges” each one addresses, but also in the diverse range of pricing from the accessible to the high-end. This project has elevated a typically developer-driven market into a striking urban design product.

Upon purchasing the home, our clients, desired to update the entire main level of the home. Prior to the main level remodel, the kitchen, cabinets, footprint and trim were outdated housed with oak. The kitchen was completely gutted and re-designed with a fresh new layout, custom built white enamel cabinets, new center island, granite countertops, recessed lighting and new stainless steel appliances. The dining room with a walkway to the kitchen was walled off which created a pantry for the kitchen. The living room and family room once open, was closed off to create a home office. The fireplace was completely refaced with stone and new mantel created. There was essentially no mudroom, with extra space in the garage a large mudroom was created. The entire main level was refaced with all white enamel trim. Additionally, new dark hard wood floors were installed, popcorn ceilings were scrapped off, new carpet and recessed lights throughout were added. The remodel, superb quality of finishes, attention to detail and final design into this project were achieved.

Arcadia is home to many great ranch homes. Many of these homes were built with many small rooms and areas divided by walls, doors and hallways.
In this project we took it upon ourselves to eliminate all these small compartments to create a great room in the center of the home.
In addition, we constructed a room-addition to include a parent’s suite on the opposite side of the great room so it will have the privacy our clients wished to have.
As part of the structural changes, we found that we need to completely redesign the back portion of the roof line to be higher and more unformal.
This gave us an opportunity to create a 10' ceiling for the proposed kitchen.
The extra space allowed us to build a second row of upper cabinets with some glass doors for showcasing our clients china collection.
The design is very traditional / traditional in nature.
Lots of neutral colors with white tones dominating the space.
The main contrast and addition of warmth were the hickory floors that added the much-needed contrast to the quick and cooler white tones.
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For the past several years, Buffum Homes has proudly featured Parade Homes within our own developments, and each year they have been a tremendous success. The Spring 2026 Parade of Homes was no exception. This year, we showcased our Sydney floor plan, one of Buffum Homes’ most popular 1.5-story home designs. Time and time again, homeowners are drawn to this plan because of its thoughtful layout, functional design, and ability to be customized to fit a variety of lifestyles.
From the moment visitors arrived, this home made a statement. Its striking modern exterior immediately stood out within the development and offered exceptional curb appeal. The design team selected beautiful masonry accents that perfectly complemented the home’s color palette, creating a sophisticated and welcoming first impression. Every exterior detail was intentionally chosen to enhance the architecture and showcase the home’s unique character.
Upon entry to this home, guests are welcomed through impressive double front doors that lead into a warm and inviting foyer. Immediately beyond, the stunning two-story great room creates a grand first impression. An overlooking loft from the second floor enhances the open feel of the space while allowing an abundance of natural daylight to pour throughout the home. A beautiful masonry fireplace chase serves as the focal point of the room, adding warmth, texture, and character to the heart of the home.
Just off the foyer is a private office featuring a thoughtfully designed custom built-in, creating the perfect space for working from home, studying, or staying organized. The attention to detail found throughout this space is a great example of the craftsmanship that Buffum Homes is known for.
Tucked away off the main living area is the primary suite, a comfortable retreat designed with both beauty and functionality in mind. The bedroom features a stunning tray ceiling accented with white oak detailing, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The primary bathroom includes a custom tiled shower, private water closet, dual-sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. Every element was carefully considered to maximize both comfort and everyday convenience.
Buffum Homes has become known for incorporating unique trim details throughout our homes, and this Parade Home was certainly no exception. From feature walls and ceiling treatments to custom built-ins and carefully crafted millwork, thoughtful details can be found around every corner.
The great room flows seamlessly into the dining area and spacious U-shaped kitchen, creating an ideal layout for entertaining and everyday living. This updated version of the Sydney floor plan features a massive walk-in pantry with abundant shelving and countertop space, providing exceptional storage and organization. Within the kitchen, a stunning custom hood vent serves as a beautiful statement piece while built-in nooks offer convenient storage for cooking oils, spices, and other kitchen essentials.
Just beyond the kitchen, the mudroom provides a practical transition space from the garage into the home. Complete with custom built-in lockers, a convenient half bath, and a large laundry room, this area was designed to keep daily life organized and efficient. The home also features a spacious three-stall garage, offering plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and recreational equipment.
Spanning roughly 1,500 square feet, the main floor was thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality while maintaining an open and inviting feel. Every space serves a purpose while still providing the custom details and architectural features that make this home stand out.
Ascending to the second floor, homeowners are welcomed by a spacious open loft overlooking the great room below. This versatile area provides additional living space and can be customized to fit a variety of needs. Whether used as a play area for children or grandchildren, a reading nook, a homework station, or simply a secondary gathering space, the loft adds both functionality and character to the home while maintaining a connection to the main living areas below.
Also located on the second floor are three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing plenty of room for family members and guests. The thoughtful layout allows for privacy while still keeping everyone connected through the open loft space.
With approximately 1,000 square feet on the upper level, the second floor complements the main level perfectly while adding flexibility for growing families and changing needs over time.
The lower level offers just under 1,100 square feet of future finish potential, providing homeowners with the flexibility to expand their living space as their needs evolve. Thoughtfully designed and well laid out, the basement is ready to accommodate a variety of future uses while maintaining excellent flow and functionality.
The available space is ideal for adding two future bedrooms, a spacious family room, and a future full bathroom, making it perfect for growing families, hosting guests, or creating additional recreational space. Even with these future living areas, there is still plenty of room remaining for storage, ensuring homeowners have ample space for seasonal items, hobbies, and household essentials.
One of the greatest advantages of the Sydney floor plan is its ability to grow alongside its homeowners. While the home already offers approximately 2,500 square feet of beautifully finished above-grade living space, completing the lower level would bring the total finished living area to over 3,600 square feet. This creates a truly expansive home that provides exceptional flexibility, comfort, and long-term value.
In its current configuration, this home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,500 square feet above grade. With a future lower level finish, homeowners have the opportunity to expand to 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 3,600 square feet of finished living space. The flexibility built into this design is one of the many reasons the Sydney continues to be one of our most requested floor plans.
This home was filled with thoughtful details and custom touches throughout. From the carefully selected finishes and trim work to the intentional layout decisions, every aspect of the home was designed to maximize space, natural light, and everyday functionality. The result is a home that not only looks beautiful but also lives exceptionally well for years to come.
It was a pleasure featuring this home in the Parade of Homes and welcoming so many visitors through its doors. We always enjoy the opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail while sharing the quality that Buffum Homes brings to every project throughout West Michigan.
As you browse through the photos below, we hope you’ll find inspiration for your own future home and discover ideas that fit your lifestyle and vision. Whether it is a favorite finish, layout feature, built-in detail, or design element, this home is a great example of how personalized a Buffum Home can be.
When you’re ready to begin your custom home journey, we’d love to help create a customized version of the Sydney floor plan tailored specifically to your family’s needs, style, and goals. We can’t wait to help bring your dream home to life.

Immaculately situated behind an exclusive private gate lies this absolutely epic estate of your dreams. A beautiful long driveway leads you to 1.6 acres of entertainer’s paradise featuring the grand main house, detached guest house, 3 car garage, full North/South Tennis & Basketball court, tennis pavilion, wine cellar, pool & spa with water slide, firepit, outdoor kitchen, hiking trail, and more. The striking exterior of this home exceeds all modern farmhouse architectural expectations with curated contrasting colors and warm stone elements meticulously combined to create timeless luxury. Upon entry, soaring ceilings, flooding natural light, and designer finishes welcome you to an exceptionally appointed open floor plan. The glamorous custom chef’s kitchen features top of the line Miele appliances, built in coffee maker, professional walk in pantry & butler’s pantry, massive center island with bar seating, and additional dining space for informal meals. Expansive family room with fireplace keeps a versatile vibe with just an open or close of glass sliding pocket doors revealing the backyard oasis. Covered lounging space leads out to the resort-like backyard surrounded by towering lush greenery. Astounding pool features a water slide, waterfalls, baja shelf, and grotto. Crafted for the aspiring athlete, is a gym located on the right wing of the house with direct access to the full sized sports court equipped for tennis & basketball. Adjacent, is a covered tennis pavilion with a bathroom and wet bar, perfectly designed to entertain and watch games. The second level welcomes you to an additional family room, oversized ensuite bedrooms, and laundry room. The romantic master retreat boasts refined luxury with beamed ceilings, a stunning fireplace, extensive balcony, dual walk in closets, and a sophisticated bathroom with separate sinks, vanity area, soaking tub, and walk in shower. Additional world class amenities include a home theater, main floor ensuite bedroom, smart home system, security system, extra long driveway with room to park multiple cars, boats, etc., and more. This unmatched trophy estate was built with unparalleled levels of execution for the most discerning clientele.

This active family with two young boys wanted a place to grow food, lounge in the front yard with friends and have blooms upon blooms of midwestern flowers to enjoy. Custom tuteurs, vegetable beds and benches frame the center of the garden, surrounded by low maintenance flowering shrubs, trees and perennials. Evergreen grasses form the understory of the borders. A bulb layer will be installed summer of 2017. Photo credit: Naomi Goodman

We transformed an awkward bowling alley into an elegant and gracious kitchen that works for a couple or a grand occasion. The high ceilings are highlighted by an exquisite and silent hood by Ventahood set on a wall of marble mosaic. The lighting helps to define the space while not impeding sight lines. The new picture window centers upon a beautiful mature tree and offers views to their outdoor fireplace. The Peninsula offers casual dining and a staging place for dessert/appetizers out of the work zone.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Immaculately situated behind an exclusive private gate lies this absolutely epic estate of your dreams. A beautiful long driveway leads you to 1.6 acres of entertainer’s paradise featuring the grand main house, detached guest house, 3 car garage, full North/South Tennis & Basketball court, tennis pavilion, wine cellar, pool & spa with water slide, firepit, outdoor kitchen, hiking trail, and more. The striking exterior of this home exceeds all modern farmhouse architectural expectations with curated contrasting colors and warm stone elements meticulously combined to create timeless luxury. Upon entry, soaring ceilings, flooding natural light, and designer finishes welcome you to an exceptionally appointed open floor plan. The glamorous custom chef’s kitchen features top of the line Miele appliances, built in coffee maker, professional walk in pantry & butler’s pantry, massive center island with bar seating, and additional dining space for informal meals. Expansive family room with fireplace keeps a versatile vibe with just an open or close of glass sliding pocket doors revealing the backyard oasis. Covered lounging space leads out to the resort-like backyard surrounded by towering lush greenery. Astounding pool features a water slide, waterfalls, baja shelf, and grotto. Crafted for the aspiring athlete, is a gym located on the right wing of the house with direct access to the full sized sports court equipped for tennis & basketball. Adjacent, is a covered tennis pavilion with a bathroom and wet bar, perfectly designed to entertain and watch games. The second level welcomes you to an additional family room, oversized ensuite bedrooms, and laundry room. The romantic master retreat boasts refined luxury with beamed ceilings, a stunning fireplace, extensive balcony, dual walk in closets, and a sophisticated bathroom with separate sinks, vanity area, soaking tub, and walk in shower. Additional world class amenities include a home theater, main floor ensuite bedroom, smart home system, security system, extra long driveway with room to park multiple cars, boats, etc., and more. This unmatched trophy estate was built with unparalleled levels of execution for the most discerning clientele.

Shingle details and handsome stone accents give this traditional carriage house the look of days gone by while maintaining all of the convenience of today. The goal for this home was to maximize the views of the lake and this three-story home does just that. With multi-level porches and an abundance of windows facing the water. The exterior reflects character, timelessness, and architectural details to create a traditional waterfront home.
The exterior details include curved gable rooflines, crown molding, limestone accents, cedar shingles, arched limestone head garage doors, corbels, and an arched covered porch. Objectives of this home were open living and abundant natural light. This waterfront home provides space to accommodate entertaining, while still living comfortably for two. The interior of the home is distinguished as well as comfortable.
Graceful pillars at the covered entry lead into the lower foyer. The ground level features a bonus room, full bath, walk-in closet, and garage. Upon entering the main level, the south-facing wall is filled with numerous windows to provide the entire space with lake views and natural light. The hearth room with a coffered ceiling and covered terrace opens to the kitchen and dining area.
The best views were saved on the upper level for the master suite. Third-floor of this traditional carriage house is a sanctuary featuring an arched opening covered porch, two walk-in closets, and an en suite bathroom with a tub and shower.
Round Lake carriage house is located in Charlevoix, Michigan. Round lake is the best natural harbor on Lake Michigan. Surrounded by the City of Charlevoix, it is uniquely situated in an urban center, but with access to thousands of acres of the beautiful waters of northwest Michigan. The lake sits between Lake Michigan to the west and Lake Charlevoix to the east.

Shingle details and handsome stone accents give this traditional carriage house the look of days gone by while maintaining all of the convenience of today. The goal for this home was to maximize the views of the lake and this three-story home does just that. With multi-level porches and an abundance of windows facing the water. The exterior reflects character, timelessness, and architectural details to create a traditional waterfront home.
The exterior details include curved gable rooflines, crown molding, limestone accents, cedar shingles, arched limestone head garage doors, corbels, and an arched covered porch. Objectives of this home were open living and abundant natural light. This waterfront home provides space to accommodate entertaining, while still living comfortably for two. The interior of the home is distinguished as well as comfortable.
Graceful pillars at the covered entry lead into the lower foyer. The ground level features a bonus room, full bath, walk-in closet, and garage. Upon entering the main level, the south-facing wall is filled with numerous windows to provide the entire space with lake views and natural light. The hearth room with a coffered ceiling and covered terrace opens to the kitchen and dining area.
The best views were saved on the upper level for the master suite. Third-floor of this traditional carriage house is a sanctuary featuring an arched opening covered porch, two walk-in closets, and an en suite bathroom with a tub and shower.
Round Lake carriage house is located in Charlevoix, Michigan. Round lake is the best natural harbor on Lake Michigan. Surrounded by the City of Charlevoix, it is uniquely situated in an urban center, but with access to thousands of acres of the beautiful waters of northwest Michigan. The lake sits between Lake Michigan to the west and Lake Charlevoix to the east.

Shingle details and handsome stone accents give this traditional carriage house the look of days gone by while maintaining all of the convenience of today. The goal for this home was to maximize the views of the lake and this three-story home does just that. With multi-level porches and an abundance of windows facing the water. The exterior reflects character, timelessness, and architectural details to create a traditional waterfront home.
The exterior details include curved gable rooflines, crown molding, limestone accents, cedar shingles, arched limestone head garage doors, corbels, and an arched covered porch. Objectives of this home were open living and abundant natural light. This waterfront home provides space to accommodate entertaining, while still living comfortably for two. The interior of the home is distinguished as well as comfortable.
Graceful pillars at the covered entry lead into the lower foyer. The ground level features a bonus room, full bath, walk-in closet, and garage. Upon entering the main level, the south-facing wall is filled with numerous windows to provide the entire space with lake views and natural light. The hearth room with a coffered ceiling and covered terrace opens to the kitchen and dining area.
The best views were saved on the upper level for the master suite. Third-floor of this traditional carriage house is a sanctuary featuring an arched opening covered porch, two walk-in closets, and an en suite bathroom with a tub and shower.
Round Lake carriage house is located in Charlevoix, Michigan. Round lake is the best natural harbor on Lake Michigan. Surrounded by the City of Charlevoix, it is uniquely situated in an urban center, but with access to thousands of acres of the beautiful waters of northwest Michigan. The lake sits between Lake Michigan to the west and Lake Charlevoix to the east.

The dining room became a study which can be used for occasional entertaining, centered upon the Empire round table the clients brought from Colorado. Chairs are from a 1930s ocean liner. Meant to be flexible, the table may be set up as a dining table, buffet, or bar. At right, a portiere in Kravet’s double-sided “Interweave” fabric marks the separation from the bedroom.

Our firm is currently undertaking a full-home interior renovation that reimagines the residence with elevated materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and modern luxury throughout. The transformation begins with a completely redesigned primary bathroom suite featuring elegant marble flooring, large-format porcelain wall tile, and new brass plumbing fixtures. The space is centered around a deep soaking tub with a 43-inch television mounted above, complemented by integrated surround sound to create a spa-like retreat that balances comfort and sophistication.
Adjacent to the suite, the primary bedroom sitting area has been refreshed with new engineered wood flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the upper levels of the home. The space incorporates sculptural glass wall sconces, premium built-in cabinetry, a 63-inch television, and an entirely new furniture layout designed to enhance both relaxation and functionality. Two additional bathrooms on the top floor echo the home’s cohesive design language, utilizing porcelain floor and shower tile, newly installed cabinetry, and warm bronze hardware to create timeless yet durable spaces.
Moving downstairs, the foyer makes an immediate statement with a six-foot grand chandelier composed of crystal and polished nickel, establishing a dramatic focal point upon entry. Just off the foyer, the powder room introduces a more intimate and layered design, featuring stone elements, darker wall tones, decorative wallpaper, and a custom wall-mounted marble sink. The space is further elevated with a smart toilet and a custom semi-coffered ceiling that adds architectural interest.
The kitchen serves as the heart of the home and has been fully reimagined with semi-custom cabinetry, professional-grade appliances, and distinctive gold welded wire mesh featured in many of the upper cabinet doors. Undercabinet LED lighting enhances both functionality and ambiance, while brass footrails invite guests to comfortably gather in the space. Quartz countertops and a full-height quartz backsplash complete the design, while thoughtful hidden features—such as pullout trash cans, a mixer lift, cutlery dividers, and other integrated storage solutions—ensure everyday convenience.
Engineered wood flooring runs throughout the kitchen and upper two levels, tying the home together with warmth and continuity. Most walls across these floors have been painted in Benjamin Moore 983 “Smokey Taupe,” while many of the ceilings feature “Silhouette” in a flat finish, adding subtle contrast and depth to the interiors.
Stay tuned for more reveals from this project, including the fully designed basement level, which will feature a private gym, bar, and theater space. Finished photography of this remarkable home will be coming soon.

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

Arcadia is home to many great ranch homes. Many of these homes were built with many small rooms and areas divided by walls, doors and hallways.
In this project we took it upon ourselves to eliminate all these small compartments to create a great room in the center of the home.
In addition, we constructed a room-addition to include a parent’s suite on the opposite side of the great room so it will have the privacy our clients wished to have.
As part of the structural changes, we found that we need to completely redesign the back portion of the roof line to be higher and more unformal.
This gave us an opportunity to create a 10' ceiling for the proposed kitchen.
The extra space allowed us to build a second row of upper cabinets with some glass doors for showcasing our clients china collection.
The design is very traditional / traditional in nature.
Lots of neutral colors with white tones dominating the space.
The main contrast and addition of warmth were the hickory floors that added the much-needed contrast to the quick and cooler white tones.

Step into a world where nature's beauty takes center stage, captivating your senses and welcoming you home to a symphony of serenity. Our Whidbey Island Oasis embraces your senses with a mesmerizing front yard pond, cascading waterfall, and an enchanting bridge that intertwine to create a picturesque retreat visible from both within and outside your abode.
Nestled on the captivating landscape of Whidbey Island, this oasis transcends the ordinary, transporting you to a haven of tranquility. The front yard pond sparkles as the heart of this retreat, reflecting the ever-changing sky and inviting the surrounding greenery to dance upon its surface.
A gentle waterfall completes this scene, where water gracefully descends, whispering tales of nature's elegance as it joins the pond below. The soothing sound of flowing water becomes the backdrop of your everyday life, a constant reminder of the beauty that surrounds you.
Spanning the water, an enchanting bridge connects the realms of your front yard oasis. Designed not just for functionality, but also for aesthetics, the bridge offers an artistic touch that draws the eye and beckons you to cross into a space where time seems to slow down.
Imagine arriving home to this natural sanctuary, greeted by the sight of water dancing, sunlight glinting off the pond, and the bridge inviting you to explore. From the inside, every glance out the window reveals a living tableau of serenity that evolves with the passing moments.
Key Highlights:
Front Yard Paradise: A captivating front yard pond becomes the centerpiece of your outdoor haven.
Cascading Elegance: A gentle waterfall adds motion and grace to the landscape.
Bridge to Tranquility: An enchanting bridge connects your senses to nature's beauty.
Nature-Infused Living: The oasis is viewable from indoors, enhancing your daily life.
Indulge in the embrace of nature's elegance as you cross the bridge between the everyday and the extraordinary. The Whidbey Island Oasis is more than just a landscape design; it's an invitation to rediscover the harmony between your home and the natural world.
Experience Everyday Enchantment. Elevate Your Whidbey Island Lifestyle.

Our firm is currently undertaking a full-home interior renovation that reimagines the residence with elevated materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and modern luxury throughout. The transformation begins with a completely redesigned primary bathroom suite featuring elegant marble flooring, large-format porcelain wall tile, and new brass plumbing fixtures. The space is centered around a deep soaking tub with a 43-inch television mounted above, complemented by integrated surround sound to create a spa-like retreat that balances comfort and sophistication.
Adjacent to the suite, the primary bedroom sitting area has been refreshed with new engineered wood flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the upper levels of the home. The space incorporates sculptural glass wall sconces, premium built-in cabinetry, a 63-inch television, and an entirely new furniture layout designed to enhance both relaxation and functionality. Two additional bathrooms on the top floor echo the home’s cohesive design language, utilizing porcelain floor and shower tile, newly installed cabinetry, and warm bronze hardware to create timeless yet durable spaces.
Moving downstairs, the foyer makes an immediate statement with a six-foot grand chandelier composed of crystal and polished nickel, establishing a dramatic focal point upon entry. Just off the foyer, the powder room introduces a more intimate and layered design, featuring stone elements, darker wall tones, decorative wallpaper, and a custom wall-mounted marble sink. The space is further elevated with a smart toilet and a custom semi-coffered ceiling that adds architectural interest.
The kitchen serves as the heart of the home and has been fully reimagined with semi-custom cabinetry, professional-grade appliances, and distinctive gold welded wire mesh featured in many of the upper cabinet doors. Undercabinet LED lighting enhances both functionality and ambiance, while brass footrails invite guests to comfortably gather in the space. Quartz countertops and a full-height quartz backsplash complete the design, while thoughtful hidden features—such as pullout trash cans, a mixer lift, cutlery dividers, and other integrated storage solutions—ensure everyday convenience.
Engineered wood flooring runs throughout the kitchen and upper two levels, tying the home together with warmth and continuity. Most walls across these floors have been painted in Benjamin Moore 983 “Smokey Taupe,” while many of the ceilings feature “Silhouette” in a flat finish, adding subtle contrast and depth to the interiors.
Stay tuned for more reveals from this project, including the fully designed basement level, which will feature a private gym, bar, and theater space. Finished photography of this remarkable home will be coming soon.

This active family with two young boys wanted a place to grow food, lounge in the front yard with friends and have blooms upon blooms of midwestern flowers to enjoy. Custom tuteurs, vegetable beds and benches frame the center of the garden, surrounded by low maintenance flowering shrubs, trees and perennials. Evergreen grasses form the understory of the borders. A bulb layer will be installed summer of 2017. Photo credit: Naomi Goodman

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

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.

This home for a family of four in Houston Heights nods to the neighborhood’s historic bungalows with oversized 'clapboard' siding and a gable roof form with a distinctly modern reinterpretation. Two mature live oak trees at the front of the site provide a shaded canopy upon entry. The volume of the building tapers slightly from the peak at the center of the site to the primary bedroom at the front of the home where a large window at the foot of the bed frames a view of the tree canopy.
Spaces are carved away from the overall volume in order to bring outdoor space into the interior of the home. In addition to the porches at the front and back of the house that are typical to most homes, each bedroom also opens to a generous private patio recessed within the building’s volume. An interior atrium brings vegetation and natural light into the kitchen and dining spaces while a deep canopy provides shade to a broad opening just outside the living room. At the peak of the gabled roof, a skylight brings daylight into a lofted reading space.
The family’s penchant for puzzles inspired the details within the home. Throughout the house, irregularly shaped millwork door panels overlap with adjacent cabinet boxes to create interlocking planes. Staggered gaps in cabinet doors and drawers serve as handles, creating playful patterns. In the Puzzle Room, a custom designed table allows for puzzles in progress to be stored internally until homework is completed.

A gorgeous, well-planned family home offering three roomy bedrooms and an owner's suite with a private bath, double bowl vanity, and spacious closet. A flex space room and dining room flank the foyer upon entering this stately home. The large family room with optional gas fireplace flows comfortably into the sunlit breakfast area with sliding door access to the patio. The open kitchen has an optional center island for even more working space. (Pricing may reflect limited-time savings/incentives. See Community Sales Manager for details.)
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