Sunset Heights Renovation This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home. Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design. Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right. The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment. As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either. At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations. Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent. Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!” Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come! Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

Keith & Shari wanted to open things up, while preserving the recently installed laminate floor outside the kitchen. The kitchen was mostly original with the exception of the range and hood, which were recent upgrades. The layout worked fine for them, but capturing more storage and modernizing were priorities. The first thing we did was to remove the top 1/2 of two of the walls to gain visual space. Next, we expanded the cabinetry to fill the unused table space in the kitchen. Since the space is now open, both the living and dining rooms are close enough for comfortable conversation. White painted cabinetry helped to further expand the visual size of the new space. The herringbone layout of the tile floor avoided conflict with the laminate floor in the living room. Quartz countertops, a full height tile splash, LED under-cabinet lighting, and concealed angled plug strips add clean, bright, bullet-proof, and stylish elements to complete the space in a soft, elegant, & timeless manner. Photo by: Warren Smith, CMKBD, CAPS

Keith & Shari wanted to open things up, while preserving the recently installed laminate floor outside the kitchen. The kitchen was mostly original with the exception of the range and hood, which were recent upgrades. The layout worked fine for them, but capturing more storage and modernizing were priorities. The first thing we did was to remove the top 1/2 of two of the walls to gain visual space. Next, we expanded the cabinetry to fill the unused table space in the kitchen. Since the space is now open, both the living and dining rooms are close enough for comfortable conversation. White painted cabinetry helped to further expand the visual size of the new space. The herringbone layout of the tile floor avoided conflict with the laminate floor in the living room. Quartz countertops, a full height tile splash, LED under-cabinet lighting, and concealed angled plug strips add clean, bright, bullet-proof, and stylish elements to complete the space in a soft, elegant, & timeless manner. Photo by: Warren Smith, CMKBD, CAPS

Sunset Heights Renovation This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home. Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design. Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right. The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment. As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either. At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations. Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent. Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!” Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come! Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

Sunset Heights Renovation This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home. Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design. Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right. The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment. As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either. At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations. Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent. Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!” Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come! Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

Sunset Heights Renovation This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home. Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design. Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right. The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment. As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either. At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations. Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent. Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!” Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come! Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

Sunset Heights Renovation This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home. Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design. Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right. The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment. As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either. At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations. Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent. Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!” Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come! Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

Keith & Shari wanted to open things up, while preserving the recently installed laminate floor outside the kitchen. The kitchen was mostly original with the exception of the range and hood, which were recent upgrades. The layout worked fine for them, but capturing more storage and modernizing were priorities. The first thing we did was to remove the top 1/2 of two of the walls to gain visual space. Next, we expanded the cabinetry to fill the unused table space in the kitchen. Since the space is now open, both the living and dining rooms are close enough for comfortable conversation. White painted cabinetry helped to further expand the visual size of the new space. The herringbone layout of the tile floor avoided conflict with the laminate floor in the living room. Quartz countertops, a full height tile splash, LED under-cabinet lighting, and concealed angled plug strips add clean, bright, bullet-proof, and stylish elements to complete the space in a soft, elegant, & timeless manner. Photo by: Warren Smith, CMKBD, CAPS

Sunset Heights Renovation This Victorian style home was beautifully designed from the interior to the exterior. Our clients were looking to update the outdoor space, not only was it not functional, but it did not complement their Victorian home. Although we had a yearlong waiting list for design, our clients were patient and hired us for 3D design. Many times, our clients already have all the components in place, such as a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, pergola etc., but they just don’t feel right. The most important feature of our client’s new space was not only the components, but to be able to have a space that would allow them to create a lifetime of memories. From a visual perspective their existing space seemed limited and confined. Our design team was able to see past this and expanded its space to its full potential which allowed us to create multiple destinations for relaxation, enjoyment and most importantly entertainment. As we began the design process, we were able to take a closer look at the existing space and noticed many safety concerns and how the existing materials did not accentuate the home either. At the completion of their 3D design, we were able to present new ideas and materials that would enhance the value of the home as well as help them visualize the new space created with multiple destinations. Ivory travertine coping & decking was a must as was the Talavera blue highlighted tiles for the newly renovated pool. A new working spa and functional outdoor kitchen with bar were two spaces we are sure they would enjoy while spending time outdoors. We enlarged the existing covered patio to expand the seating area to include chaise lounges, a loveseat and chairs under the pergola shade accent. Newest favorite additions are the gas firepit and cabin play fort which can be highly utilized year-round. Our clients say, “The adults love hanging out in the fort too!” Nestled in the Historic District, our client’s home is now filled with plenty of space and great energy for family gatherings, parties, watching sports, graduations and so much more. Who knows, maybe a future wedding or two! Memories of a lifetime will be made here for years to come! Architecture and lifestyle are always our focus when designing feel good and functional spaces for our clients!

Mike and Michelle of Lake Barrington knew they needed extra space. Their home was becoming too crowded for their family with blossoming teenagers, so a basement renovation offered the perfect solution for more space for the kids and more room to entertain for the adults. “Our project consisted of expanding our laundry room, putting in a first floor wet bar so we had adult space upstairs, while also renovating our basement for a family-friendly and teen-functional area as well,” Michelle says. They found Advance Design Studio through a neighbor who gave a glowing recommendation, giving Michelle and Mike the confidence they needed to move forward with a major home renovation. They felt like they knew Advance Design before they even worked together. When they met with the owner Todd Jurs and designer Nicole Ryan, Mike and Michelle knew they were getting a trustworthy, dependable team that could create the project they had been dreaming about for 7 years. Having virtually no natural light to work with, one of the biggest design challenges was creating a basement that did not feel dark and depressing. The Advance team got to work creating architectural archways and custom detailed dry-stack stone columns artfully designed into the space, adding a dramatic element that made the space feel less like a basement or more like a relaxing family room. Color 3D renderings were created to portray what the space would look like so Mike and Michelle could visualize the space in advance. Detailed trim and crown moldings grace the built in buffet and wet bar making for an amazingly functional space that lacks nothing in style and visual interest. Cherry wood cabinetry by Dura Supreme is featured in the space with a “Cocoa Brown” finish and includes beautiful mirrored glass doors embellished with unique elliptical mullion details. A built-in microwave, dishwasher and mini fridge add practicality to the ample entertainment mecca. An under mounted sink finishes the space joined with a intricate mosaic tile backsplash and “Ventisca Polished” quartz countertops. The basement is absolutely perfect for hosting friends and family with expertly designed key areas such as a game space for the kids, a movie area for the family, an ample workout room with luxurious full bath, and even built in wine storage. The family absolutely loves the new basement living space, and has already enjoyed numerous family movie nights and sleep-overs with friends. While custom cabinets made by Dura Supreme were used to create unique spaces that lived up to Mike and Michelle’s expectations., heated flooring under the 16”x16” “Mongolian Spring” tile was installed giving all tiled areas of the basement a much cozier feel, eliminating that cold hard surface most of us hate in our basements! The new basement must-have requirement list included a new bath space, which was incorporated adjacent to the work out room. The sleek shower door and cabinets in the new bathroom make guests and family feel like they are in an elegant hotel. The new guest bath features 4”x36” “Silver Screen” honed marble tile in a brick pattern on the shower walls and 2”x2” “Chenille” limestone tile in a hexagon mosaic pattern on the shower floor. “I came in with very specific requirements for our three project areas,” Michelle says. “There was not one time that I felt like I was asking for something that was not going to turn out how I anticipated.” Tying in multiple rooms during a renovation if you have can do it makes a lot of sense and saves money in the long run. A fully functional laundry room as well was a must on this family’s wish list. Michelle wanted to add space to the existing cramped and awkward laundry room, and Mike wanted to make sure they could still park a car in the garage. Reconfiguring interior walls required borrowing unused space cleverly from the garage in order to enlarge the laundry room space. Drawers under the stairs added beautiful hidden storage created almost magically out of dead space. White painted Dura Supreme cabinets bring additional light into the small space; while the 16”x16” cleft slate tile flooring provides excellent contrast and the naturally earthy feel Michelle wanted. Quartz countertops with a 3”x12” “Debut Dew” subway tile backsplash add elegance to the now upliftingly bright laundry room. The extra space makes doing laundry much more pleasurable and the added storage is a great for all those little things like winter hats and gloves, umbrellas and the like. “The Advance Design project team was phenomenal to work with,” Michelle says. “They came in, shared the plans with us and walked us through the expectations. We always knew what was coming next.” Converting an existing closet space, the wet bar upstairs was challenging because they wanted a functional area that didn’t look or feel like cabinets just sticking out of a closet. So the Advance team transformed this ordinary closet space into a stunning wet bar that architecturally appears as if it’s always been there. Traditional, elegant hand carved custom molding matching the adjacent fireplace ties the new entertainment bar area in nicely with the existing family room and kitchen area. Featuring a built in wine refrigerator, Dura Supreme cabinetry in deep cherry wood elegantly displays wine bottles and etched glass mullion doors that fill with soft light in the evening hours. Cambria “Windermere” quartz countertops with a sophisticated hammered copper sink and a glimmering backsplash round out the stunning wet bar. Hosting parties and family functions has become much more enjoyable now that they have a dedicated beverage serving area large enough to include hors devours. All three projects were designed and constructed together at the same time, making for a cohesive project that was administered smoothly and easily both for the design team and for the family. Disruption to the home was minimal as each phase was completed in each project conclusively, and design and meeting time for the homeowner was efficient and organized making for an enjoyable process. “Advance Design was great to work with,” Michelle says. “I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a home improvement project. They took the time at the beginning to understand our needs, our budget, and our vision for our home. The field team was great, attentive, on time, cleaned up each day and made the overall experience very positive. We couldn't be happier with the finished product.” With the help of our talented, award winning design team you can create the basement, laundry room, or any other home renovation that you have been dreaming of. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating you home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-836-2600 or schedule an appointment to talk with us about that kitchen remodeling project. Joe Nowak

Like the Manhattan, the Expanded plan is an elegant, open ranch with great visual appeal. Ceilings are over ten feet in the entry and family room, and over nine feet in the dining room, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room. Two optional fireplace locations are offered in the family room, and triple windows with transoms overlook the rear yard. The master bedroom includes a deep tray ceiling detail, and bedroom #3 has vaulted ceilings and a plant shelf above the closet. The master suite has a very spacious closet, a garden tub and separate shower, linen storage in the master bath, and other luxury bath options. The dining room is defined by columns and a dropped tray ceiling, but remains otherwise open to the other living areas. A butler's pantry off the kitchen and formal dining room adds a nice luxury touch, as does a bay window in the breakfast area. A nicely-sized utility/mudroom combination includes a built-in folding counter. Several front elevations are available, all with the plan's signature high hip roof and a variety of feature window and porch designs. This expanded version of the Manhattan plan offers a 3' plan width extension and a Bedroom 3 bumpout extension that add 165sf to the home. The additional space is reflected in of all bedrooms, as well as the master bath, family room, dining room, and garage. Three mull windows with transoms above line the rear wall of the family room. Two single garage doors are part of the standard plan.

Like the Manhattan, the Expanded plan is an elegant, open ranch with great visual appeal. Ceilings are over ten feet in the entry and family room, and over nine feet in the dining room, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room. Two optional fireplace locations are offered in the family room, and triple windows with transoms overlook the rear yard. The master bedroom includes a deep tray ceiling detail, and bedroom #3 has vaulted ceilings and a plant shelf above the closet. The master suite has a very spacious closet, a garden tub and separate shower, linen storage in the master bath, and other luxury bath options. The dining room is defined by columns and a dropped tray ceiling, but remains otherwise open to the other living areas. A butler's pantry off the kitchen and formal dining room adds a nice luxury touch, as does a bay window in the breakfast area. A nicely-sized utility/mudroom combination includes a built-in folding counter. Several front elevations are available, all with the plan's signature high hip roof and a variety of feature window and porch designs. This expanded version of the Manhattan plan offers a 3' plan width extension and a Bedroom 3 bumpout extension that add 165sf to the home. The additional space is reflected in of all bedrooms, as well as the master bath, family room, dining room, and garage. Three mull windows with transoms above line the rear wall of the family room. Two single garage doors are part of the standard plan.

Like the Manhattan, the Expanded plan is an elegant, open ranch with great visual appeal. Ceilings are over ten feet in the entry and family room, and over nine feet in the dining room, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room. Two optional fireplace locations are offered in the family room, and triple windows with transoms overlook the rear yard. The master bedroom includes a deep tray ceiling detail, and bedroom #3 has vaulted ceilings and a plant shelf above the closet. The master suite has a very spacious closet, a garden tub and separate shower, linen storage in the master bath, and other luxury bath options. The dining room is defined by columns and a dropped tray ceiling, but remains otherwise open to the other living areas. A butler's pantry off the kitchen and formal dining room adds a nice luxury touch, as does a bay window in the breakfast area. A nicely-sized utility/mudroom combination includes a built-in folding counter. Several front elevations are available, all with the plan's signature high hip roof and a variety of feature window and porch designs. This expanded version of the Manhattan plan offers a 3' plan width extension and a Bedroom 3 bumpout extension that add 165sf to the home. The additional space is reflected in of all bedrooms, as well as the master bath, family room, dining room, and garage. Three mull windows with transoms above line the rear wall of the family room. Two single garage doors are part of the standard plan.

When deciding to either keep a tub and shower or take out the tub and expand the shower in the master bathroom is solely dependent on a homeowner's preference. Although having a tub in the master bathroom is still a desired feature for home buyer's, especially for those who have or are excepting children, there's no definitive proof that having a tub is going to guarantee a higher rate of return on the investment. This chic and modern shower is easily accessible. The expanded room provides the ability to move around freely without constraint and makes showering more welcoming and relaxing. This shower is a great addition and can be highly beneficial in the future to any individuals who are elderly, wheelchair bound or have mobility impairments. Fixtures and furnishings such as the grab bar, a bench and hand shower also makes the shower more user friendly. The decision to take out the tub and make the shower larger has visually transformed this master bathroom and created a spacious feel. The shower is a wonderful upgrade and has added value and style to our client's beautiful home. Check out the before and after photographs as well as the video! Here are some of the materials that were used for this transformation: 12x24 Porcelain Lara Dark Grey 6" Shower band of Keystone Interlocking Mosaic Tile Delta fixtures throughout Ranier Quartz vanity countertops

Like the Manhattan, the Expanded plan is an elegant, open ranch with great visual appeal. Ceilings are over ten feet in the entry and family room, and over nine feet in the dining room, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room. Two optional fireplace locations are offered in the family room, and triple windows with transoms overlook the rear yard. The master bedroom includes a deep tray ceiling detail, and bedroom #3 has vaulted ceilings and a plant shelf above the closet. The master suite has a very spacious closet, a garden tub and separate shower, linen storage in the master bath, and other luxury bath options. The dining room is defined by columns and a dropped tray ceiling, but remains otherwise open to the other living areas. A butler's pantry off the kitchen and formal dining room adds a nice luxury touch, as does a bay window in the breakfast area. A nicely-sized utility/mudroom combination includes a built-in folding counter. Several front elevations are available, all with the plan's signature high hip roof and a variety of feature window and porch designs. This expanded version of the Manhattan plan offers a 3' plan width extension and a Bedroom 3 bumpout extension that add 165sf to the home. The additional space is reflected in of all bedrooms, as well as the master bath, family room, dining room, and garage. Three mull windows with transoms above line the rear wall of the family room. Two single garage doors are part of the standard plan.

When deciding to either keep a tub and shower or take out the tub and expand the shower in the master bathroom is solely dependent on a homeowner's preference. Although having a tub in the master bathroom is still a desired feature for home buyer's, especially for those who have or are excepting children, there's no definitive proof that having a tub is going to guarantee a higher rate of return on the investment. This chic and modern shower is easily accessible. The expanded room provides the ability to move around freely without constraint and makes showering more welcoming and relaxing. This shower is a great addition and can be highly beneficial in the future to any individuals who are elderly, wheelchair bound or have mobility impairments. Fixtures and furnishings such as the grab bar, a bench and hand shower also makes the shower more user friendly. The decision to take out the tub and make the shower larger has visually transformed this master bathroom and created a spacious feel. The shower is a wonderful upgrade and has added value and style to our client's beautiful home. Check out the before and after photographs as well as the video! Here are some of the materials that were used for this transformation: 12x24 Porcelain Lara Dark Grey 6" Shower band of Keystone Interlocking Mosaic Tile Delta fixtures throughout Ranier Quartz vanity countertops

Like the Manhattan, the Expanded plan is an elegant, open ranch with great visual appeal. Ceilings are over ten feet in the entry and family room, and over nine feet in the dining room, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room. Two optional fireplace locations are offered in the family room, and triple windows with transoms overlook the rear yard. The master bedroom includes a deep tray ceiling detail, and bedroom #3 has vaulted ceilings and a plant shelf above the closet. The master suite has a very spacious closet, a garden tub and separate shower, linen storage in the master bath, and other luxury bath options. The dining room is defined by columns and a dropped tray ceiling, but remains otherwise open to the other living areas. A butler's pantry off the kitchen and formal dining room adds a nice luxury touch, as does a bay window in the breakfast area. A nicely-sized utility/mudroom combination includes a built-in folding counter. Several front elevations are available, all with the plan's signature high hip roof and a variety of feature window and porch designs. This expanded version of the Manhattan plan offers a 3' plan width extension and a Bedroom 3 bumpout extension that add 165sf to the home. The additional space is reflected in of all bedrooms, as well as the master bath, family room, dining room, and garage. Three mull windows with transoms above line the rear wall of the family room. Two single garage doors are part of the standard plan.

Like the Manhattan, the Expanded plan is an elegant, open ranch with great visual appeal. Ceilings are over ten feet in the entry and family room, and over nine feet in the dining room, kitchen, breakfast area, and utility room. Two optional fireplace locations are offered in the family room, and triple windows with transoms overlook the rear yard. The master bedroom includes a deep tray ceiling detail, and bedroom #3 has vaulted ceilings and a plant shelf above the closet. The master suite has a very spacious closet, a garden tub and separate shower, linen storage in the master bath, and other luxury bath options. The dining room is defined by columns and a dropped tray ceiling, but remains otherwise open to the other living areas. A butler's pantry off the kitchen and formal dining room adds a nice luxury touch, as does a bay window in the breakfast area. A nicely-sized utility/mudroom combination includes a built-in folding counter. Several front elevations are available, all with the plan's signature high hip roof and a variety of feature window and porch designs. This expanded version of the Manhattan plan offers a 3' plan width extension and a Bedroom 3 bumpout extension that add 165sf to the home. The additional space is reflected in of all bedrooms, as well as the master bath, family room, dining room, and garage. Three mull windows with transoms above line the rear wall of the family room. Two single garage doors are part of the standard plan.

When deciding to either keep a tub and shower or take out the tub and expand the shower in the master bathroom is solely dependent on a homeowner's preference. Although having a tub in the master bathroom is still a desired feature for home buyer's, especially for those who have or are excepting children, there's no definitive proof that having a tub is going to guarantee a higher rate of return on the investment. This chic and modern shower is easily accessible. The expanded room provides the ability to move around freely without constraint and makes showering more welcoming and relaxing. This shower is a great addition and can be highly beneficial in the future to any individuals who are elderly, wheelchair bound or have mobility impairments. Fixtures and furnishings such as the grab bar, a bench and hand shower also makes the shower more user friendly. The decision to take out the tub and make the shower larger has visually transformed this master bathroom and created a spacious feel. The shower is a wonderful upgrade and has added value and style to our client's beautiful home. Check out the before and after photographs as well as the video! Here are some of the materials that were used for this transformation: 12x24 Porcelain Lara Dark Grey 6" Shower band of Keystone Interlocking Mosaic Tile Delta fixtures throughout Ranier Quartz vanity countertops