Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

A rustic approach to the shaker style, the exterior of the Dandridge home combines cedar shakes, logs, stonework, and metal roofing. This beautifully proportioned design is simultaneously inviting and rich in appearance. The main level of the home flows naturally from the foyer through to the open living room. Surrounded by windows, the spacious combined kitchen and dining area provides easy access to a wrap-around deck. The master bedroom suite is also located on the main level, offering a luxurious bathroom and walk-in closet, as well as a private den and deck. The upper level features two full bed and bath suites, a loft area, and a bunkroom, giving homeowners ample space for kids and guests. An additional guest suite is located on the lower level. This, along with an exercise room, dual kitchenettes, billiards, and a family entertainment center, all walk out to more outdoor living space and the home’s backyard. Photographer: William Hebert

This is an example of a modern concrete paver landscaping in San Diego.

A modern and clean approach to kitchen design. White flat-panel cabinets create a modern and minimalist style while the wood grain accent adds warmth and interest to the kitchen. The large island in a durable white quartz finish accommodates social gatherings as well as providing a space for cooking and eating.

Wall-spanning shelves showcase photos and art and make arranging and rearranging a breeze.
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional enclosed medium tone wood floor living room remodel in Charlotte with gray walls, no fireplace and no tv

Welcome to the Evergreen Avenue Kitchen Design project, a stunning example of AJX Design Co.'s expertise in material selection for kitchen design. The client approached us for assistance with cabinet color and style, as well as with selecting the perfect backsplash and countertop for their new home. Our team worked closely with the client to bring their vision to life, resulting in a beautiful and functional kitchen that perfectly complements their new home.

Welcome to the Evergreen Avenue Kitchen Design project, a stunning example of AJX Design Co.'s expertise in material selection for kitchen design. The client approached us for assistance with cabinet color and style, as well as with selecting the perfect backsplash and countertop for their new home. Our team worked closely with the client to bring their vision to life, resulting in a beautiful and functional kitchen that perfectly complements their new home.

As a contractor, our approach to preparing a home for sale involves a comprehensive scope of work aimed at maximizing the property's value and appeal. We prepare by assessing and addressing structural and cosmetic issues, conducting repairs, and performing various upgrades such as painting, flooring, and kitchen/bathroom renovations, and multiple cost-effective home improvements & automation. Our objective is to present well-maintained, visually appealing properties that can fetch competitive prices in the real estate market.

In this whole-house renovation we transformed a dark ‘50s ranch house into a bright, open, contemporary home with a breathtaking 180-degree view. The owner sought a peaceful, sanctuary-like environment where she could relax and work from home, as well as an easy place to entertain guests. Following these fundamental criteria, we approached the project with a simple design and select palette of natural materials. Photography by Kurt Manley. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/vista-adobe/

Welcome to the Evergreen Avenue Kitchen Design project, a stunning example of AJX Design Co.'s expertise in material selection for kitchen design. The client approached us for assistance with cabinet color and style, as well as with selecting the perfect backsplash and countertop for their new home. Our team worked closely with the client to bring their vision to life, resulting in a beautiful and functional kitchen that perfectly complements their new home.

Welcome to the Evergreen Avenue Kitchen Design project, a stunning example of AJX Design Co.'s expertise in material selection for kitchen design. The client approached us for assistance with cabinet color and style, as well as with selecting the perfect backsplash and countertop for their new home. Our team worked closely with the client to bring their vision to life, resulting in a beautiful and functional kitchen that perfectly complements their new home.

Welcome to the Evergreen Avenue Kitchen Design project, a stunning example of AJX Design Co.'s expertise in material selection for kitchen design. The client approached us for assistance with cabinet color and style, as well as with selecting the perfect backsplash and countertop for their new home. Our team worked closely with the client to bring their vision to life, resulting in a beautiful and functional kitchen that perfectly complements their new home.

In this whole-house renovation we transformed a dark ‘50s ranch house into a bright, open, contemporary home with a breathtaking 180-degree view. The owner sought a peaceful, sanctuary-like environment where she could relax and work from home, as well as an easy place to entertain guests. Following these fundamental criteria, we approached the project with a simple design and select palette of natural materials. Photography by Kurt Manley. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/vista-adobe/

This historic building in Stouffville is over 70 years old. The older bricks has become soft over time and the brickwork at bottom of wheelchair ramp were deteriorating. We replaced the bricks with a concrete brick in matching white. It was a very tricky repair as walls were not constructed the same way they are today. We used an underpinning approach as safety was a concern. The job looks fabulous and will blend very well.

The design intent for this graceful contemporary home was an approach toward minimalism, yet ensuring that the practical needs of day-to-day life could still be satisfied. Project Architect: Lisa Wang. Wang Architecture Landscape Architect: Paul Leffingwell. Leffingwell and Associates Interior Design: Karen Goldberg. Studio G Design Structural Engineer: John Yadegar. JYASF Builder: Shahram Ghodsian. Trush Construction Company Photography: Jason Wells, Golden Gate Creative

This family of four approached me to create a flex space, both TV viewing area for family and craft area for creative sisters. The goal was a bright, joyful and organized space with a transitional/modern vibe. We removed an old sink and cabinet, created built-ins for art and sound system, painted the dark room to lighten it up. Affordable art was scouted for the project, as well as brand new furniture, including a very comfortable sectional.

Design ideas for a traditional landscaping in Seattle.

This historic building in Stouffville is over 70 years old. The older bricks has become soft over time and the brickwork at bottom of wheelchair ramp were deteriorating. We replaced the bricks with a concrete brick in matching white. It was a very tricky repair as walls were not constructed the same way they are today. We used an underpinning approach as safety was a concern. The job looks fabulous and will blend very well.

A new-renovation of a Beacon Hill townhouse gets a new look. It was clear from the beginning we needed to seamlessly meld old and new to bring a fresh approach to the interiors of this new home for a young family. Our client owned beautiful antiques and some well-loved, but worn pieces that had the right lines but needed a style upgrade. With a wonderful, engaged client we artfully edited, re-covered and added many new pieces to create a cohesive style with classic forms. The new home is a perfect mixture of beautiful fabrics, functional custom millwork, unique decorative lighting and elegant wall coverings, carpets, and window treatments. Eric Roth Photography