Search results for "Utilized vibrant" in Home Design Ideas

Southwest brown floor living room photo in Phoenix with white walls and a standard fireplace

Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment.
The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends.
In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality.
Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone.
The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch.
The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment.
Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design
Photography by: Emily Keeney

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

A family that spends a lot of time in and around their beautiful saltwater pool, did not have a place in their home that provided them a visual or physical connection. They also lacked any storage for all their pool “stuff”. With small children and a love for entertaining, they needed a room that served and supported their watery lifestyle. We took over an empty and unused notch along the back of the house adjacent to the pool patio to create a new bright and airy pool house.
The new out building attempts to unify 4 areas; an existing deck, an upper master bedroom balcony, a lower lawn, and the pool itself, and provide the missing storage. By locating the pool house at the juxtaposition of these areas, the new room was able to provide a new expanded rooftop balcony for the master, anchor and define the dining and barbeque deck, extend and connect to the pool and patio, and create a new access to integrate the lower lawn – and carve out the much needed storage for the variety of pool toys and equipment.
The building itself is 400 sf with bath, laundry, storage, mechanical, kitchen, and living. A single new secure connection is made into the house through the existing mudroom. Clad with crisply detailed ship lap cedar, it draws on the existing material palate of the house and nods to the boat aesthetic in expression and efficiency. With pocketing glass walls the pool house is both the utility building needed, and an expansion of the vibrant pool scene itself, inside and outside, along the poolside.
Photographer: Brandon Stengelwww.farmkidstudios.com
Location: Edina, MN
Completed: 2013
Project Team:
Ben Awes AIA, Principal-In-Charge
Bob Ganser AIA
Christian Dean AIA
Nate Dodge

Our clients were living in a Northwood Hills home in Dallas that was built in 1968. Some updates had been done but none really to the main living areas in the front of the house. They love to entertain and do so frequently but the layout of their house wasn’t very functional. There was a galley kitchen, which was mostly shut off to the rest of the home. They were not using the formal living and dining room in front of your house, so they wanted to see how this space could be better utilized. They wanted to create a more open and updated kitchen space that fits their lifestyle. One idea was to turn part of this space into an office, utilizing the bay window with the view out of the front of the house. Storage was also a necessity, as they entertain often and need space for storing those items they use for entertaining. They would also like to incorporate a wet bar somewhere!
We demoed the brick and paneling from all of the existing walls and put up drywall. The openings on either side of the fireplace and through the entryway were widened and the kitchen was completely opened up. The fireplace surround is changed to a modern Emser Esplanade Trail tile, versus the chunky rock it was previously. The ceiling was raised and leveled out and the beams were removed throughout the entire area. Beautiful Olympus quartzite countertops were installed throughout the kitchen and butler’s pantry with white Chandler cabinets and Grace 4”x12” Bianco tile backsplash. A large two level island with bar seating for guests was built to create a little separation between the kitchen and dining room. Contrasting black Chandler cabinets were used for the island, as well as for the bar area, all with the same 6” Emtek Alexander pulls. A Blanco low divide metallic gray kitchen sink was placed in the center of the island with a Kohler Bellera kitchen faucet in vibrant stainless. To finish off the look three Iconic Classic Globe Small Pendants in Antiqued Nickel pendant lights were hung above the island. Black Supreme granite countertops with a cool leathered finish were installed in the wet bar, The backsplash is Choice Fawn gloss 4x12” tile, which created a little different look than in the kitchen. A hammered copper Hayden square sink was installed in the bar, giving it that cool bar feel with the black Chandler cabinets. Off the kitchen was a laundry room and powder bath that were also updated. They wanted to have a little fun with these spaces, so the clients chose a geometric black and white Bella Mori 9x9” porcelain tile. Coordinating black and white polka dot wallpaper was installed in the laundry room and a fun floral black and white wallpaper in the powder bath. A dark bronze Metal Mirror with a shelf was installed above the porcelain pedestal sink with simple floating black shelves for storage.
Their butlers pantry, the added storage space, and the overall functionality has made entertaining so much easier and keeps unwanted things out of sight, whether the guests are sitting at the island or at the wet bar! The clients absolutely love their new space and the way in which has transformed their lives and really love entertaining even more now!

The primary bath represents the ultimate intersection of quietude and the city’s kinetic energy. Anchored by a monolithic, book-matched marble tub, the space is designed around a singular, breathtaking view that serves as an ever-changing mural of New York City.
The aesthetic remains lean and architectural, utilizing a palette of crisp whites and soft greys to let the skyline take center stage. Every element—from the integrated shelving to the minimalist fixtures- is stripped of excess, creating a pure, meditative environment. It is a sanctuary of restoration, offering a rare moment of stillness where the owners can soak in the horizon and reflect on the vibrant world they’ve built below.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Inspiration for a transitional black floor and wallpaper powder room remodel in Chicago with blue walls, a vessel sink and black countertops

A family that spends a lot of time in and around their beautiful saltwater pool, did not have a place in their home that provided them a visual or physical connection. They also lacked any storage for all their pool “stuff”. With small children and a love for entertaining, they needed a room that served and supported their watery lifestyle. We took over an empty and unused notch along the back of the house adjacent to the pool patio to create a new bright and airy pool house.
The new out building attempts to unify 4 areas; an existing deck, an upper master bedroom balcony, a lower lawn, and the pool itself, and provide the missing storage. By locating the pool house at the juxtaposition of these areas, the new room was able to provide a new expanded rooftop balcony for the master, anchor and define the dining and barbeque deck, extend and connect to the pool and patio, and create a new access to integrate the lower lawn – and carve out the much needed storage for the variety of pool toys and equipment.
The building itself is 400 sf with bath, laundry, storage, mechanical, kitchen, and living. A single new secure connection is made into the house through the existing mudroom. Clad with crisply detailed ship lap cedar, it draws on the existing material palate of the house and nods to the boat aesthetic in expression and efficiency. With pocketing glass walls the pool house is both the utility building needed, and an expansion of the vibrant pool scene itself, inside and outside, along the poolside.
Photographer: Brandon Stengelwww.farmkidstudios.com
Location: Edina, MN
Completed: 2013
Project Team:
Ben Awes AIA, Principal-In-Charge
Bob Ganser AIA
Christian Dean AIA
Nate Dodge

Images by Nic LeHoux
Designed as a home and studio for a photographer and his young family, Lightbox is located on a peninsula that extends south from British Columbia across the border to Point Roberts. The densely forested site lies beside a 180-acre park that overlooks the Strait of Georgia, the San Juan Islands and the Puget Sound.
Having experienced the world from under a black focusing cloth and large format camera lens, the photographer has a special fondness for simplicity and an appreciation of unique, genuine and well-crafted details.
The home was made decidedly modest, in size and means, with a building skin utilizing simple materials in a straightforward yet innovative configuration. The result is a structure crafted from affordable and common materials such as exposed wood two-bys that form the structural frame and directly support a prefabricated aluminum window system of standard glazing units uniformly sized to reduce the complexity and overall cost.
Accessed from the west on a sloped boardwalk that bisects its two contrasting forms, the house sits lightly on the land above the forest floor.
A south facing two-story glassy cage for living captures the sun and view as it celebrates the interplay of light and shadow in the forest. To the north, stairs are contained in a thin wooden box stained black with a traditional Finnish pine tar coating. Narrow apertures in the otherwise solid dark wooden wall sharply focus the vibrant cropped views of the old growth fir trees at the edge of the deep forest.
Lightbox is an uncomplicated yet powerful gesture that enables one to view the subtlety and beauty of the site while providing comfort and pleasure in the constantly changing light of the forest.

Stoneunlimited Kitchen and Bath can help you design and renovate your bathroom into a seaside oasis that will hold you over until the next time you're able to feel sand between your toes and salty water in your hair. Our Client's desire for their master bathroom was to create a beachy feel that they could enjoy year round and we were more than happy to facilitate the transformation.
The Alaskan White Granite tops mimic the look of wet sand providing contrast to the Waypoint Shaker Style cabinets and storage tower. 3"x17" Porcelain Planks in Vintage Gray add a wood component that is key to any coastal bathroom design and resemble the color of aged board walks and fishing piers. Pebbles in the tub surround, shower accent band and shower floor are similar to ones that can be found on many popular beaches. The decorative details that our client selected for the room such as mermaid dispensers, shells, and beautiful vibrant art work were the perfect touch.
Ample storage space and some privacy to the exposed toilet were needed. The 12" deep tower provides two cabinet pull outs for toiletries and other necessities as well as an 18"x18" cabinet on the top with crown molding finishes and an additional pull out cabinet at the bottom of the tower. Partial privacy for the lavatory was achieved by installing a 45"x29" glass panel.
Here are the items that were utilized in this Stoneunlimited Bathroom Remodel:
Countertops: 3CM Alaskan White Granit with Roman Ogee Edge
Cabinets: WayPoint Living Spaces Door Style: 540F, Maple with painted Pewter Glazed
Cabinet Hardware: Aberdeen Pulls
Sinks: 20"x15" white porcelain rectangular
Tub: 60" Kohler
Tile: 3" x 17" Porcelain Planks in Vintage Gray on the floor
12" x 24 Porcelain Nexus Ice for the shower and tub walls
Island Flat /Stacked Pebbles in the shower and tub surround
Fixtures: Delta in Brushed Nickel Finish
Glass Shower Enclosure: 3/8" Tempered Glass 75" Frameless with standard hinges and D style handle
Mirrors: ¼'" thick topped off with crown molding trim to match the trim finishes on the storage tower

A bright, vibrant, rustic, and minimalist interior is showcased throughout this one-of-a-kind 3D home. We opted for reds, oranges, bold patterns, natural textiles, and ample greenery throughout. The goal was to represent the energetic and rustic tones of El Salvador, since that is where the first village will be printed. We love the way the design turned out as well as how we were able to utilize the style, color palette, and materials of the El Salvadoran region!
Designed by Sara Barney’s BANDD DESIGN, who are based in Austin, Texas and serving throughout Round Rock, Lake Travis, West Lake Hills, and Tarrytown.
For more about BANDD DESIGN, click here: https://bandddesign.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://bandddesign.com/americas-first-3d-printed-house/

This scullery kitchen is located near the garage entrance to the home and the utility room. It is one of two kitchens in the home. The more formal entertaining kitchen is open to the formal living area. This kitchen provides an area for the bulk of the cooking and dish washing. It can also serve as a staging area for caterers when needed.
Counters: Viatera by LG - Minuet
Brick Back Splash and Floor: General Shale, Culpepper brick veneer
Light Fixture/Pot Rack: Troy - Brunswick, F3798, Aged Pewter finish
Cabinets, Shelves, Island Counter: Grandeur Cellars
Shelf Brackets: Rejuvenation Hardware, Portland shelf bracket, 10"
Cabinet Hardware: Emtek, Trinity, Flat Black finish
Barn Door Hardware: Register Dixon Custom Homes
Barn Door: Register Dixon Custom Homes
Wall and Ceiling Paint: Sherwin Williams - 7015 Repose Gray
Cabinet Paint: Sherwin Williams - 7019 Gauntlet Gray
Refrigerator: Electrolux - Icon Series
Dishwasher: Bosch 500 Series Bar Handle Dishwasher
Sink: Proflo - PFUS308, single bowl, under mount, stainless
Faucet: Kohler - Bellera, K-560, pull down spray, vibrant stainless finish
Stove: Bertazzoni 36" Dual Fuel Range with 5 burners
Vent Hood: Bertazzoni Heritage Series
Tre Dunham with Fine Focus Photography

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

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

Behind a glazed pocket door, the mudroom features a chic flower arranging room with crimson shelving and cabinetry, stone countertops, a nickel sink with hammered finish, and a traditional gantry pulldown faucet. Woodruff Brown Photography

This dark, claustrophobic kitchen was transformed into an open, vibrant space where the homeowner could showcase her original artwork while enjoying a fluid and well-designed space. Custom cabinetry materials include gray-washed white oak to compliment the new flooring, along with white gloss uppers and tall, bright blue cabinets. Details include a chef-style sink, quartz counters, motorized assist for heavy drawers and various cabinetry organizers. Jewelry-like artisan pulls are repeated throughout to bring it all together. The leather cabinet finish on the wet bar and display area is one of our favorite custom details. The coat closet was ‘concealed' by installing concealed hinges, touch-latch hardware, and painting it the color of the walls. Next to it, at the stair ledge, a recessed cubby was installed to utilize the otherwise unused space and create extra kitchen storage.
The condo association had very strict guidelines stating no work could be done outside the hours of 9am-4:30pm, and no work on weekends or holidays. The elevator was required to be fully padded before transporting materials, and floor coverings needed to be placed in the hallways every morning and removed every afternoon. The condo association needed to be notified at least 5 days in advance if there was going to be loud noises due to construction. Work trucks were not allowed in the parking structure, and the city issued only two parking permits for on-street parking. These guidelines required detailed planning and execution in order to complete the project on schedule. Kraft took on all these challenges with ease and respect, completing the project complaint-free!
HONORS
2018 Pacific Northwest Remodeling Achievement Award for Residential Kitchen $100,000-$150,000 category

 
Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW
 
Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall.
The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home.
Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup!
One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space.
The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back.
We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed.
Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it!
We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake!
Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs.
We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together.
We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown.
Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility.
The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels.
The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy.
This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Photography by: Michael Kaskel
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Inspired by the architecture of the prestigious Regent Street in London, the exterior of this city home has an elegant and refined street presence. A thoughtful floor plan cleverly utilizes the project’s narrow site to provide an open, but defined light-filled interior. Custom detailing paired with colorful finishes, create an inviting and vibrant family home.
View more of this home through #BBARegentStreetTownhome on Instagram.

This laundry room remodel by Blue Cypress Design Build Firm combines vibrant color with functional design. The space features bold blue cabinetry with black hardware, providing ample storage and open shelving for organization. A colorful, patterned backsplash adds a touch of personality, complemented by sleek black countertops. The stacked washer and dryer maximize space, while the black-and-white checkered flooring brings a classic, retro feel. Thoughtful details like a small utility sink and designated storage for laundry essentials create a highly efficient and stylish space perfect for modern laundry needs.
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