High on our client’s wish list was eliminating upper cabinets and keeping the countertops clear of clutter and small appliances. In order to achieve this, we needed to ensure there was ample room in the new base cabinets and walk-through pantry. The reconfigured pantry accommodates a variety of uses from storage to microwaving. A wall of cubbies, shelves and hooks on the opposite serves as mudroom.

Inspiration for a large coastal white two-story concrete fiberboard house exterior remodel in Miami with a hip roof and a metal roof

Gane Perspective Photography
Tropical three-story gable roof idea in Orlando

Photo: Angela Flournoy © 2013 Houzz
Inspiration for an eclectic medium tone wood floor bedroom remodel in Dallas with white walls

Photography by Barry Goldman and David Ross
Example of a trendy rectangular pool design with decking

This is the side that faces the pasture. The tower acts as a pivot point for the two facades that are at 90 degree angles to one another. It led to the unique character of the plan and elevations.

Beach style l-shaped medium tone wood floor kitchen photo in Charleston with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, multicolored backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Jessica White
Large transitional open concept medium tone wood floor family room photo in Salt Lake City with gray walls, a standard fireplace, a concrete fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

David Agnello

The tan/brown shading of the main tilwork is accented with a stylish vertical-striped inlay tilework. Close-up of vertical striped glass accent tile.
Bathroom - mid-sized contemporary brown tile and glass tile bathroom idea in Atlanta with beige walls and glass countertops

The homeowners were very concerned about over-improving their modest split-level home built in 1961. They liked the “mid-century modern” feel and wanted to enhance that vibe. Top on their wish list was to replace the portable dishwasher with a built-in and add a peninsula for seating and workspace. To keep the labor cost down, the soffits and existing ceiling lighting was left intact. The first option was to keep the existing cabinets; however, the original layout did not allow adequate counter space on either side of the cooktop. After considered the price of new cabinets, they realized the value of having a brand new kitchen. The fun begins in the design phase. We chose the horizontal grain laminate to blend with the color of the existing woodwork in the home. The textured rhomboid shaped tile steals the show when accented with contrasting grout. The kitchen is a little mod and a little hip. And fits in perfectly as today’s “mid-century modern” home.

Bathroom.
Example of a cottage master concrete floor freestanding bathtub design in Santa Barbara with an undermount sink, medium tone wood cabinets, beige walls and flat-panel cabinets

Mid-sized transitional u-shaped light wood floor and beige floor eat-in kitchen photo in Orange County with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, stone slab backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and white countertops

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional kids' ceramic tile, white floor, double-sink and shiplap wall tub/shower combo remodel in Los Angeles with shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, a drop-in sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops and a freestanding vanity

Landmark Photography
Inspiration for a coastal built-in desk light wood floor study room remodel in Minneapolis with blue walls

THE SETUP “You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'” The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place. THE REMODEL The objectives were: Enlarge and open the space Find a classic look that incorporates blues Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances Hide an office space within the space Ample storage for dishes Design challenges: Uneven window alignment on the back wall Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header Large island that seats six easily Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way. “In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

SpaceCrafting Real Estate Photography
Kids' bedroom - bedroom transitional girl dark wood floor kids' bedroom idea in Minneapolis with multicolored walls

Building Design, Plans, and Interior Finishes by: Fluidesign Studio I Builder: Structural Dimensions Inc. I Photographer: Seth Benn Photography
Mid-sized elegant white tile and subway tile slate floor alcove bathtub photo in Minneapolis with green cabinets, a two-piece toilet, beige walls, an undermount sink, marble countertops and raised-panel cabinets

This home was featured in the July 2011 issue of “Log Cabin Homes.” It proves efficiency doesn’t have to be sacrificed when designing grand elegance. Even with its cathedral ceilings and many windows it earned a 5 Star Plus Energy Star® rating. http://www.coventryloghomes.com/ourDesigns/craftsmanSeries/BearRock/model.html Roger Wade