Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners came to us looking to update the kitchen in their historic 1897 home. The home had gone through an extensive renovation several years earlier that added a master bedroom suite and updates to the front façade. The kitchen however was not part of that update and a prior 1990’s update had left much to be desired. The client is an avid cook, and it was just not very functional for the family. The original kitchen was very choppy and included a large eat in area that took up more than its fair share of the space. On the wish list was a place where the family could comfortably congregate, that was easy and to cook in, that feels lived in and in check with the rest of the home’s décor. They also wanted a space that was not cluttered and dark – a happy, light and airy room. A small powder room off the space also needed some attention so we set out to include that in the remodel as well. See that arch in the neighboring dining room? The homeowner really wanted to make the opening to the dining room an arch to match, so we incorporated that into the design. Another unfortunate eyesore was the state of the ceiling and soffits. Turns out it was just a series of shortcuts from the prior renovation, and we were surprised and delighted that we were easily able to flatten out almost the entire ceiling with a couple of little reworks. Other changes we made were to add new windows that were appropriate to the new design, which included moving the sink window over slightly to give the work zone more breathing room. We also adjusted the height of the windows in what was previously the eat-in area that were too low for a countertop to work. We tried to keep an old island in the plan since it was a well-loved vintage find, but the tradeoff for the function of the new island was not worth it in the end. We hope the old found a new home, perhaps as a potting table. 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

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This project started out as a kitchen remodel but ended up as so much more. As the original plan started to take shape, some water damage provided the impetus to remodel a small upstairs hall bath. Once this bath was complete, the homeowners enjoyed the result so much that they decided to set aside the kitchen and complete a large master bath remodel. Once that was completed, we started planning for the kitchen! The original kitchen was just large enough to accommodate an island and a separate pantry but felt a little cramped, especially during the weekends when the couple likes to entertain. The primary goal was to maintain the functionality of the current space, but to add some breathing room as well as to provide a view to the homeowner’s side yard and substantial Hosta garden. The solution was to bump out the space about 10 feet which provided ample room for large pro appliances, a large island for gathering and an upgraded pantry space. It was important to the homeowners to create a space that felt like it belonged in their historic 1866 home. Details such as matching new trim to the existing large custom profiles in the original home and re-purposing an existing door to be used for the new pantry, provided these touches. A large window at the main sink provides that view into the yard and a beautiful focal point for the room. A mix of painted wood and stained cabinetry gives the new kitchen a sense of belonging in the older home, as do the Super White quartzite that has the look of marble, subway tile backsplash, polished nickel lanterns and glass and mirrored doors. The large pantry, filled with custom shelving built to the homeowner’s specifications, stainless steel appliances and the two Galley Workstations – sinks that do double duty as prep space – ensure that not only does the kitchen look great, but also functions in a personalized manner that works perfectly for the occupants. Doing the bump out also allowed the opportunity for a small mudroom and powder room right off the kitchen as well as re-arranging some openings to allow for better traffic flow throughout the entire first floor. The result is a comfortable up-to-date home that feels both steeped in history yet allows for today’s style of living. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This Ranch Hacienda hillside estate boasts well over 13,000 square feet under roof. A loggia serves as the backbone for the design. Each space, both interior and exterior, has a direct response to the linear expression of outdoor space. The exterior materials and detailing are rustic and simple in nature. The mass and scale create drama and correspond to the vast desert skyline and adjacent majestic McDowell mountain views. Features of the house include a motor court with dual garages, a separate guest quarters, and a walk-in cooler. Silverleaf is known for its embodiment of traditional architectural styles, and this house expresses the essence of a hacienda with its communal courtyard spaces and quiet luxury. This was the first project of many designed by Architect C.P. Drewett for construction in Silverleaf, located in north Scottsdale. Project Details: Architecture | C.P. Drewett, AIA, DrewettWorks, Scottsdale, AZ Builder | Sonora West Development, Scottsdale, AZ Photography | Dino Tonn, Scottsdale, AZ

Finding a reputable contractor to design and build your kitchen remodel in Maryland with quality results involves several steps. Here are some general guidelines to help you find the right professional for your project: 1. Ask for Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues who have recently completed kitchen remodels for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a valuable source of trustworthy contractors. 2. Check Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp, Angie's List, and Google Reviews can provide insights into the experiences of previous clients. Look for contractors with consistently positive feedback. 3. Check Credentials: Verify that the contractor has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in Maryland. You can typically check this information on your state's licensing board website. 4. Ask for References: Request references from the contractor and contact previous clients to inquire about their experiences. Visit some of their completed projects if possible. 5. Review Portfolios: Examine the contractor's portfolio of past kitchen remodels. Look for examples of work that match your style and preferences. 6. Check for Permits: Ensure that the contractor will handle any necessary permits and inspections for your remodel. Avoid contractors who suggest bypassing required permits, as this can lead to legal and safety issues. 7. Discuss Communication: Clear communication is crucial throughout the project. Discuss how the contractor will keep you updated on progress and address any concerns or changes during the remodel. 8. Get Everything in Writing: Never rely solely on verbal agreements. Ensure that all project details, warranties, and expectations are documented in a written contract. 9. Check for Red Flags: Be wary of contractors who pressure you into making quick decisions, lack a physical business address, or have a history of disputes or legal issues. 10. Trust Your Instincts: Choose a contractor you feel comfortable working with. Trust your instincts and select someone who listens to your ideas and concerns. 11. Visit Completed Projects: If possible, visit some of the contractors’ completed kitchen remodels to assess the quality of their work in person. Once you've completed your due diligence and gathered all the necessary information, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which contractor to hire for your kitchen remodel in Maryland. Remember that quality results often come from working with experienced, licensed professionals who prioritize clear communication and transparency throughout the project.

Finding a reputable contractor to design and build your kitchen remodel in Maryland with quality results involves several steps. Here are some general guidelines to help you find the right professional for your project: 1. Ask for Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues who have recently completed kitchen remodels for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a valuable source of trustworthy contractors. 2. Check Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp, Angie's List, and Google Reviews can provide insights into the experiences of previous clients. Look for contractors with consistently positive feedback. 3. Check Credentials: Verify that the contractor has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in Maryland. You can typically check this information on your state's licensing board website. 4. Ask for References: Request references from the contractor and contact previous clients to inquire about their experiences. Visit some of their completed projects if possible. 5. Review Portfolios: Examine the contractor's portfolio of past kitchen remodels. Look for examples of work that match your style and preferences. 6. Check for Permits: Ensure that the contractor will handle any necessary permits and inspections for your remodel. Avoid contractors who suggest bypassing required permits, as this can lead to legal and safety issues. 7. Discuss Communication: Clear communication is crucial throughout the project. Discuss how the contractor will keep you updated on progress and address any concerns or changes during the remodel. 8. Get Everything in Writing: Never rely solely on verbal agreements. Ensure that all project details, warranties, and expectations are documented in a written contract. 9. Check for Red Flags: Be wary of contractors who pressure you into making quick decisions, lack a physical business address, or have a history of disputes or legal issues. 10. Trust Your Instincts: Choose a contractor you feel comfortable working with. Trust your instincts and select someone who listens to your ideas and concerns. 11. Visit Completed Projects: If possible, visit some of the contractors’ completed kitchen remodels to assess the quality of their work in person. Once you've completed your due diligence and gathered all the necessary information, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which contractor to hire for your kitchen remodel in Maryland. Remember that quality results often come from working with experienced, licensed professionals who prioritize clear communication and transparency throughout the project.

Finding a reputable contractor to design and build your kitchen remodel in Maryland with quality results involves several steps. Here are some general guidelines to help you find the right professional for your project: 1. Ask for Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues who have recently completed kitchen remodels for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a valuable source of trustworthy contractors. 2. Check Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp, Angie's List, and Google Reviews can provide insights into the experiences of previous clients. Look for contractors with consistently positive feedback. 3. Check Credentials: Verify that the contractor has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in Maryland. You can typically check this information on your state's licensing board website. 4. Ask for References: Request references from the contractor and contact previous clients to inquire about their experiences. Visit some of their completed projects if possible. 5. Review Portfolios: Examine the contractor's portfolio of past kitchen remodels. Look for examples of work that match your style and preferences. 6. Check for Permits: Ensure that the contractor will handle any necessary permits and inspections for your remodel. Avoid contractors who suggest bypassing required permits, as this can lead to legal and safety issues. 7. Discuss Communication: Clear communication is crucial throughout the project. Discuss how the contractor will keep you updated on progress and address any concerns or changes during the remodel. 8. Get Everything in Writing: Never rely solely on verbal agreements. Ensure that all project details, warranties, and expectations are documented in a written contract. 9. Check for Red Flags: Be wary of contractors who pressure you into making quick decisions, lack a physical business address, or have a history of disputes or legal issues. 10. Trust Your Instincts: Choose a contractor you feel comfortable working with. Trust your instincts and select someone who listens to your ideas and concerns. 11. Visit Completed Projects: If possible, visit some of the contractors’ completed kitchen remodels to assess the quality of their work in person. Once you've completed your due diligence and gathered all the necessary information, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which contractor to hire for your kitchen remodel in Maryland. Remember that quality results often come from working with experienced, licensed professionals who prioritize clear communication and transparency throughout the project.

Photo credit: Denise Retallack Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional subway tile and white tile mosaic tile floor bathroom remodel in Other with a pedestal sink, shaker cabinets, dark wood cabinets, marble countertops and blue walls

Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless travertine floor sunroom remodel in Charlotte with a standard ceiling

A beach-front new construction home on Wells Beach. A collaboration with R. Moody and Sons construction. Photographs by James R. Salomon.
Example of a beach style multicolored floor mudroom design in Portland Maine with beige walls

Our clients built their Manhattan dream house years ago, but a couple of decades in, the yellow and green palette seemed stale. We brightened the home with new paint and countertops, white oak flooring and updated carpet, custom fixtures and furniture, and new finishes, window treatments, and accessories. For enhanced functionality, we added built-in storage throughout, reupholstered existing furniture and the breakfast nook in performance fabric, and created a custom dining table that seats a dozen. To keep the dining room coastal and informal, we paired plush head chairs with rattan-backed side chairs and accented with sea-foam and sandy-hued floor and window coverings. The addition of a murphy bed, as well as shelving and file storage, made the office more suited to their growing family’s needs. In the second office, a standing desk, as well as a customized craft desk with built-ins for specific supplies, transformed the area into a completely personalized and effective space. New furniture and a ceiling-length fireplace facade of soft ivory and gray stone transformed the family room into a cozy and welcoming retreat. The overall effect is a home that feels spacious, beachy, and comfortable.

Martha O'Hara Interiors, Interior Design & Photo Styling | Troy Thies, Photography | TreHus Architects + Interior Designers + Builders, Remodeler Please Note: All “related,” “similar,” and “sponsored” products tagged or listed by Houzz are not actual products pictured. They have not been approved by Martha O’Hara Interiors nor any of the professionals credited. For information about our work, please contact design@oharainteriors.com.

Martha O'Hara Interiors, Interior Design & Photo Styling | Corey Gaffer Photography Please Note: All “related,” “similar,” and “sponsored” products tagged or listed by Houzz are not actual products pictured. They have not been approved by Martha O’Hara Interiors nor any of the professionals credited. For information about our work, please contact design@oharainteriors.com.

Egress Window Brick Well
Basement photo in Denver

Traditional kitchen remodel designed by Ron Fisher in Woodbridgde, Connecticut To get more detailed information copy and paste this link into your browser. https://thekitchencompany.com/blog/featured-kitchen-elegant-addition, Photographer, Dennis Carbo

The architect and designer Guy Derwent was approached by his client with a clear and compelling brief: to completely transform a grand Victorian terrace house they were planning to renovate. The client envisioned something far beyond a standard renovation – this was to be a bold and dramatic reimagining of a family home that could grow with them over time. With the property having remained largely untouched for more than fifty years, the architects saw an opportunity to unlock its potential and deliver a contemporary design that would contrast beautifully with its Victorian heritage. The existing layout consisted of a series of small, disconnected rooms to the rear of the house. To respond to the client’s need for openness and flexibility, the architect proposed a radical restructuring of the ground floor: The rear rooms were completely removed Suspended timber floors were lowered by up to two metres to align with the garden Two bold extensions were added The first extension filled in the side return with a London stock brick facade and a glazed roof, while the second – a striking black steel and glass pavilion was glazed on three sides and placed along the garden elevation. This new pavilion redefined the building’s relationship with the garden. Its steel-framed glazing created a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior, offering a sense of immersion in the surrounding landscape. At the heart of the plan sits a dramatic, five-metre-tall dining space that acts as a transition from the original entrance hall into the new addition. A large, circular cast-glass window, framed in steel, provides a visual and spatial link between old and new, allowing light and movement to travel through the depth of the home. Throughout the project, a series of black metal elements were introduced as sculptural interventions – each marking moments of transformation within the house. These included the bespoke steel framed circular window, a custom metal staircase, a cylindrical support column, and the striking steel and glass garden pavilion. Together, they formed a coherent architectural language that underscored the project’s bold intent. Our steel windows and doors played a vital role in delivering the project’s vision. The architects chose steel for its refined sight lines and distinctive material character, which helped bridge the gap between the historical context of the building and the bold new additions. The black steel frames provided a crisp contrast to the pale London stock brick and added definition to the glazed pavilion, reinforcing the sense of architectural precision. In particular, the fine steel profiles of the garden room allowed the extension to feel both lightweight and immersive, blurring the boundary between the house and its garden. The architect drew inspiration from the Bauhaus Movement, particularly the work of Walter Gropius, whose approach to functional beauty and industrial materials informed the design of the garden pavilion. Here, our glazing system was used not just for transparency, but as an expressive architectural element. The carefully proportioned panels help to conceal the roof thickness and reinforce the pavilion’s industrial yet abstract character – a deliberate nod to product design and modernist detailing. Sustainability was an important factor in the selection of materials. Our steel systems, made from 99% recycled content and 100% recyclable, aligned with the project’s broader environmental goals. The architects noted that this commitment to material longevity and circularity was central to their decision to use steel. The durability and recyclability of the windows and doors ensured the project met both aesthetic and ethical criteria. This London terrace house now stands as a celebration of contrast – between heritage and innovation, solidity and transparency, tradition and transformation. Our steel windows and doors were not simply components; they were essential tools in crafting a home that is as bold and expressive as it is functional. The result is a home designed for modern family life, where light, space, and materiality come together in perfect harmony.

Coastal Shingle Style on St. Andrew Bay Private Residence / Panama City Beach, Florida Architect: Eric Watson Builder: McIntosh-Myers Construction For this lovely Coastal Shingle–style home, E. F. San Juan supplied Loewen impact-rated windows and doors, E. F. San Juan Invincia® impact-rated custom mahogany entry doors, exterior board-and-batten siding, exterior shingles, and exterior trim and millwork. We also supplied all the interior doors, stair parts, paneling, mouldings, and millwork. Challenges: At over 10,000 square feet, the sheer size of this home—coupled with the extensive amount of materials we produced and provided—made for a great scheduling challenge. Another significant challenge for the E. F. San Juan team was the homeowner’s desire for an electronic locking system on numerous Invincia® doors we custom manufactured for the home. This was a first-time request for us, but a challenge we gladly accepted! Solution: We worked closely with the builder, Cliff Myers of McIntosh-Myers Construction, as well as the architect, Eric Watson, to ensure the timeliness of decisions as they related to the home’s critical production timeline. We also worked closely with our design engineer and the home’s engineer of record, Allen Barnes of Apex Engineering Group, to provide a solution that allowed for an electronic lock on our custom Invincia® mahogany doors. The completed home is a stunning example of coastal architecture that is as safe and secure as it is beautiful. --- Photography by Jack Gardner

When this 6,000-square-foot vacation home suffered water damage in its family room, the homeowners decided it was time to update the interiors at large. They wanted an elegant, sophisticated, and comfortable style that served their lives but also required a design that would preserve and enhance various existing details. To begin, we focused on the timeless and most interesting aspects of the existing design. Details such as Spanish tile floors in the entry and kitchen were kept, as were the dining room's spirited marine-blue combed walls, which were refinished to add even more depth. A beloved lacquered linen coffee table was also incorporated into the great room's updated design. To modernize the interior, we looked to the home's gorgeous water views, bringing in colors and textures that related to sand, sea, and sky. In the great room, for example, textured wall coverings, nubby linen, woven chairs, and a custom mosaic backsplash all refer to the natural colors and textures just outside. Likewise, a rose garden outside the master bedroom and study informed color selections there. We updated lighting and plumbing fixtures and added a mix of antique and new furnishings. In the great room, seating and tables were specified to fit multiple configurations – the sofa can be moved to a window bay to maximize summer views, for example, but can easily be moved by the fireplace during chillier months. Project designed by Boston interior design Dane Austin Design. Dane serves Boston, Cambridge, Hingham, Cohasset, Newton, Weston, Lexington, Concord, Dover, Andover, Gloucester, as well as surrounding areas. For more about Dane Austin Design, click here: https://daneaustindesign.com/ To learn more about this project, click here: https://daneaustindesign.com/oyster-harbors-estate

This 1930's Barrington Hills farmhouse was in need of some TLC when it was purchased by this southern family of five who planned to make it their new home. The renovation taken on by Advance Design Studio's designer Scott Christensen and master carpenter Justin Davis included a custom porch, custom built in cabinetry in the living room and children's bedrooms, 2 children's on-suite baths, a guest powder room, a fabulous new master bath with custom closet and makeup area, a new upstairs laundry room, a workout basement, a mud room, new flooring and custom wainscot stairs with planked walls and ceilings throughout the home. The home's original mechanicals were in dire need of updating, so HVAC, plumbing and electrical were all replaced with newer materials and equipment. A dramatic change to the exterior took place with the addition of a quaint standing seam metal roofed farmhouse porch perfect for sipping lemonade on a lazy hot summer day. In addition to the changes to the home, a guest house on the property underwent a major transformation as well. Newly outfitted with updated gas and electric, a new stacking washer/dryer space was created along with an updated bath complete with a glass enclosed shower, something the bath did not previously have. A beautiful kitchenette with ample cabinetry space, refrigeration and a sink was transformed as well to provide all the comforts of home for guests visiting at the classic cottage retreat. The biggest design challenge was to keep in line with the charm the old home possessed, all the while giving the family all the convenience and efficiency of modern functioning amenities. One of the most interesting uses of material was the porcelain "wood-looking" tile used in all the baths and most of the home's common areas. All the efficiency of porcelain tile, with the nostalgic look and feel of worn and weathered hardwood floors. The home’s casual entry has an 8" rustic antique barn wood look porcelain tile in a rich brown to create a warm and welcoming first impression. Painted distressed cabinetry in muted shades of gray/green was used in the powder room to bring out the rustic feel of the space which was accentuated with wood planked walls and ceilings. Fresh white painted shaker cabinetry was used throughout the rest of the rooms, accentuated by bright chrome fixtures and muted pastel tones to create a calm and relaxing feeling throughout the home. Custom cabinetry was designed and built by Advance Design specifically for a large 70” TV in the living room, for each of the children’s bedroom’s built in storage, custom closets, and book shelves, and for a mudroom fit with custom niches for each family member by name. The ample master bath was fitted with double vanity areas in white. A generous shower with a bench features classic white subway tiles and light blue/green glass accents, as well as a large free standing soaking tub nestled under a window with double sconces to dim while relaxing in a luxurious bath. A custom classic white bookcase for plush towels greets you as you enter the sanctuary bath.

Martha O'Hara Interiors, Interior Design & Photo Styling | Carl M Hansen Companies, Remodel | Corey Gaffer, Photography Please Note: All “related,” “similar,” and “sponsored” products tagged or listed by Houzz are not actual products pictured. They have not been approved by Martha O’Hara Interiors nor any of the professionals credited. For information about our work, please contact design@oharainteriors.com.