Completed in partnership with Elkins Interiors, this Fall 2025 renovation transformed the main floor of a South Park home with a beautifully redesigned kitchen, dining area, and custom bar space. The goal was to create a more functional, inviting, and cohesive environment for everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen was completely reimagined with improved workflow, custom cabinetry, premium finishes, and thoughtful design details that blend style and practicality. Adjacent dining spaces were updated to encourage gathering and connection, while the custom bar area provides the perfect setting for hosting family and friends. By carefully integrating each space, the renovation created a seamless flow throughout the main floor, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The result is a sophisticated and welcoming home that reflects the homeowners' lifestyle while offering timeless appeal and exceptional craftsmanship.

Designing a luxury kitchen means tailoring the space to the people who use it every day. Because the homeowners are shorter in stature, ergonomics played an important role in the design process. While the perimeter countertops remained at standard height to accommodate appliances without the expense of custom-sized models, every opportunity was taken to improve comfort, accessibility, and workflow. The center island was intentionally designed 4 inches lower than the perimeter countertops, creating a more ergonomic work surface for food preparation, baking, and everyday kitchen tasks while enhancing the kitchen's custom character. Material selection was equally thoughtful. The perimeter countertops feature natural soapstone, prized for its rich patina, soft matte finish, and timeless appearance that complements the home's historic Federal-style architecture. As a naturally nonporous stone, soapstone is highly resistant to bacteria and staining, making it an exceptionally durable and hygienic choice for a hardworking luxury kitchen. Over time, it develops a distinctive patina that enhances its authentic, vintage appeal. The lowered center island is topped with a premium walnut butcher block, introducing warmth, texture, and natural beauty to the heart of the kitchen. The rich walnut surface provides an ideal workspace for chopping, rolling dough, and serving guests, while its lower height improves comfort and usability for the homeowners. Together, the soapstone perimeter and walnut butcher block island create a harmonious blend of historic authenticity, artisan craftsmanship, ergonomic design, and everyday functionality—demonstrating how personalized design solutions can elevate both the beauty and livability of a luxury kitchen.

Minimalist Slab Cabinetry & Integrated Functionality This kitchen exemplifies modern, minimalist design paired with highly functional planning. The space is anchored by cool-toned slab door cabinetry, creating a clean, seamless look that feels refined and timeless. The flat-panel profile allows the cabinetry to read as smooth architectural surfaces, keeping visual clutter to a minimum. To maintain the streamlined aesthetic, the cabinets are detailed with integrated pull-tab handles, eliminating protruding hardware while still offering comfortable, intuitive use. This subtle detail reinforces the kitchen’s contemporary feel and enhances everyday ergonomics. A key functional highlight is the integrated pull-out waste and recycling system, strategically located beside the sink. This placement improves workflow during cooking and cleanup while keeping waste discreetly hidden — a practical solution that supports both efficiency and a polished appearance. Designed as part of a full-home transformation, this kitchen balances clean design, smart storage, and durability, reflecting Cedarstone Group Inc.’s approach to building kitchens that are not only visually striking but purpose-built for daily living.

Alban Gega Photography
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized traditional l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Boston with a double-bowl sink, raised-panel cabinets, yellow cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Featured here is the kitchen with the focus being the island. The kitchen provides an efficient workflow by having the stove, microwave, and dishwasher all separate yet close.

This kitchen, obviously, has been properly planned with the correct workflow from cleaning to preparation and cooking.
Kitchen - transitional kitchen idea in Singapore

This luxury modern kitchen remodel in West Palm Beach, FL was designed to deliver a bold, elegant, and highly functional space. The project features high-gloss black flat panel cabinets that create a sleek, contemporary look, paired with a stunning waterfall quartz island with dramatic veining that becomes the centerpiece of the kitchen. We optimized the layout to enhance workflow and storage while integrating modern appliances and clean lines throughout the design. The contrast between dark cabinetry and light quartz surfaces creates a sophisticated and visually striking environment. The result is a high-end modern kitchen that combines luxury finishes, functionality, and a strong architectural presence, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.

Take a peek at our 2022 project for Edgehill Music Publishing, located in the heart of Nashville’s 12th South district. This 2,500 sq. ft. commercial facility was meticulously designed to accommodate up to seven writers’ rooms and production suites—each capable of operating simultaneously without interruption, with four of the rooms built for mixing capabilities. With seamless audio integration throughout, the space ensures intuitive connectivity no matter where you are on the property. The aesthetic palette, paired with a loud and quirky speakeasy vibe, creates a fun atmosphere that reflects the owners’ personalities. The result is not just a studio that feels effortless—it’s an inspiring environment where writing, mixing, and production can happen with minimal sound transmission. Behind the walls, the architectural acoustics are second to none. The design emphasizes a true “plug-and-play” workflow: each control room, both isolation booths, and all common areas are acoustically isolated with extraordinary attention to detail. Each suite is equipped with dedicated, silent 1:1 HVAC systems. Eight independent floating-floor systems support the suites, while tailored sound-reducing wall assemblies and intentional treatments in the main suites deliver clarity and precision for mixing. Full-lite doors, combined with the fact that no suite is mechanically bonded, allow all rooms to operate simultaneously with minimal sound transfer. Design, Build & Audio by NILES. Start your studio journey at niles.co

"From the very beginning, it was obvious that Kerry Taylor is a creative, calm, solution oriented person who deals with challenges extremely well. His professionalism, knowledge, and work ethic are exemplary and his crew mirrors every one of those qualities. From structural problems that required immediate resolution to working around other contractors (flooring, windows), to everyday cleanup and protection of our surroundings, they did it all. Kerry designed and built special structures to support the cabinet crown moldings that we had purchased and which turned out not to be as we expected. We hadn't decided on everything ahead of time and the necessary resulting change orders were very decently priced and well documented in his invoices and receipts. He came in absolutely on budget and on time because he knows how to efficiently manage a project so that the workflow is smooth. We will absolutely call on him for future projects." ~ Avis D, Client Single bowl sink, double faucets, under cabinet led lighting, TV center, key cabinet, spice rack pull out, toe kick drawer, rollouts, stainless steel hood, pendant, solar tube, appliance garage. Photo by: Kerry W. Taylor

The goal for this 1939 Tudor-style story-and-a-half home was to create a kitchen that offered the conveniences, storage, and performance of a modern workspace while preserving the warmth, craftsmanship, and vintage charm that made the home special. The client, an avid home cook, wanted the room to feel as though it had always belonged to the house, with thoughtful upgrades that respected the original architecture rather than competing with it. Just as important, she needed a more efficient layout with enough storage for small appliances, so everyday cooking would no longer require carrying items up from the lower level. Several existing conditions shaped the design approach. The kitchen retained original, amber-stained birch woodwork that the client wished to keep, and the compact footprint was interrupted by six doorways and two windows, none of which were to be moved, altered, or replaced. A previous flooring update had left the door casings undercut too short, creating visible gaps where the casing met the floor. The existing vintage 40-inch range also lacked proper ventilation, yet the client wished to accommodate a refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop, double ovens, built-in microwave, and effective venting above the cooktop into the new kitchen layout. To honor the original millwork, beaded inset-style cherry cabinetry was selected in a soft, hand-rubbed finish that will deepen over time and develop a natural patina. Charcoal-gray soapstone countertops complement the cabinetry while reinforcing the historic character of the home with an organic, timeworn texture. The former breakfast nook was transformed into a butler’s pantry, adding valuable base cabinet storage and expanded work surfaces for frequently used small appliances. Also in the butler’s pantry, a single upper cabinet was paired with open shelves to give an open, airy feeling while adding character and practical storage. A classic single-bowl apron-front workstation sink contributes both period-appropriate character and practical prep and cleanup function. Because the home’s openings were such a defining feature, the design worked within the existing architecture instead of altering it. Custom plinth blocks were created for each doorway to extend the original casing gracefully down to the new natural red oak flooring, resolving the earlier construction issue while adding a detail that feels authentic to the age of the house. Despite the number of door and window openings, the new layout provides a significantly more functional, built-in kitchen with an improved work triangle for serious cooking. Appliance placement was carefully planned to deliver the requested performance without overwhelming the small room. Three cooking functions (double ovens & microwave) were consolidated into one location with a GE Café double oven featuring Advantium Technology, while the client’s compact 31-inch refrigerator was reused to preserve space. A sleek 30-inch induction cooktop provides efficient cooking, and a Vent-A-Hood ARS ductless vent hood supplies needed ventilation without requiring a duct run to the exterior. The finish palette balances richness, texture, and historical sensitivity. A deeply textured navy backsplash tile adds depth and dramatic shadow play against the soapstone, while wallpaper in the back entry echoes the tile’s geometric pattern to visually connect the adjoining spaces. Oil-rubbed bronze cabinet hardware and light fixtures enhance the warmth of the cherry cabinetry and complete the antique-inspired feel. Lighting was layered to make the compact kitchen brighter, more useful, and more inviting. Vintage-style semi-flush ceiling fixtures establish the overall tone, while dimmable puck lights highlight select areas and undercabinet task lighting keeps work surfaces well illuminated. The completed kitchen now feels both highly functional and deeply rooted in the home’s history. Rich cherry cabinetry, velvety soapstone, natural red oak flooring, navy tile, bronze accents, and carefully preserved birch trim work together to create a warm, cohesive space that celebrates timeless craftsmanship. By increasing storage, improving workflow, integrating modern appliances, and respecting the Tudor home’s original character, the design achieves the client’s vision: a kitchen that feels personal, practical, historically appropriate, and as though it has always been there.

After opening up the space and redirecting the functional workflow, importance was placed on creating a focal point, which became the range wall with Ann Saks hand cut marble tile, a narrow mantle custom flared hood, open shelving, and soft brass accents. Oversized stainless steel appliances and a beautiful soft blue island complete the look, resulting in a finished space that feels bright and cheery.

This stair designed by KITE Architects was constructed to unify two floors of a rapidly expanding tech company, in the heart of downtown Providence, Rhode Island. It is constructed of painted steel stringers, tubing and plate, and features industrial vulcanized rubber treads and stainless cable railings. Concentric fabricated and installed this stair from start to finish, working alongside MPM properties, ensuring that there was no disruption to the daily workflow of the tech company that remained in residence throughout the renovation.

At Kitchen Solvers of Grayslake, we're excited to unveil the stunning transformation of the Lake Villa Homeowners' kitchen space! Witness the remarkable journey from tired oak cabinets and grease-covered surfaces to a warm and inviting culinary oasis. Check out the before-and-after shots of this incredible transformation. Our expert team meticulously crafted custom Legacy Collection cabinets from our Kitchen Solvers line, featuring the Marquette door in Natural Hickory. The double arched raised panel design perfectly complements the traditional style preferred by the homeowners. The kitchen now exudes timeless charm with natural hickory wood cabinets and Cambria Quartz countertops in the stunning Montgomery design. The full backsplash in the same material creates a seamless flow and adds a touch of sophistication to the space. The main focus of this kitchen design was functionality and storage. We combined large drawers and rollouts, including a custom pantry split with rollouts and shelves. Filler spice pullouts on both sides of the hood add convenience and organization to the cooking space. To brighten up the room and enhance functionality, we installed a combination of recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, and a center ceiling fan. This lighting design not only illuminates the space but also creates a welcoming ambiance for cooking and gathering. Every detail was meticulously planned and executed to meet the Lake Villa Homeowners' specific functional requirements. As avid cooks, they now have a kitchen that accommodates all their needs, with ample storage, efficient workflow, and designated prep areas for their culinary endeavors. Ready to turn your kitchen dreams into reality? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward your dream kitchen.

The new kitchen layout has a great workflow and extends along the entire wall where the door to the central hallway was previously located. The wall between the former dining room and the kitchen has been removed at the rear of the space and now opens into a newly created breakfast room. Chad Polk

Spices have a perfect place, accessible and visible. The remodel had significant changes. The revised design delivers enhanced workflow, expanded storage, added seating, and greater counterspace for cooking activities. The renovation involved removing a wall, an outdated garden window, and a peninsula. Finishes feature blue-gray and walnut tones, with hexagon tiles outlining the room.

After six years of living in their Huntley IL home, Chris and Meghan were tired of their dark, dingy, outdated kitchen and it was finally time for a long-anticipated change. “The kitchen is the place where we live, it’s where we do everything,” Meghan said. “It was important that it be a space where we wanted to be.” Meghan loves cooking and enjoys including their girls in healthy meal prepping, this led them to want a brighter, more enjoyable kitchen with increased functionality and improved storage. For Chris especially, the laundry room was an entirely dysfunctional eyesore. “We had a washer and a dryer, but it was all kind-of cobbled together!” Chris said. “There were always laundry piles everywhere, we weren’t really sure what we wanted to do in there, but it was time for us to make a change.” The mess of the space was stressful every time they walked in the door from the garage each day. Kids’ backpacks and shoes piled up haphazardly in the makeshift boot-bench closet left the family feeling disorganized and stressed. They needed space for folding clothes and locker cubbies to help keep the family organized. Having known Christine and Todd in the Huntley community for years, Chris and Meghan were familiar with their work. “We already trusted them personally and having seen their projects for years we knew they did top notch work. After we reviewed the initial round of designs, we knew that hiring them was definitely the right choice,” Meghan and Chris said. Although Chris had done a lot of work in their home himself, the kitchen and laundry room renovation was such a large undertaking that he didn’t want to steal time away from his family to spend what would surely be many long weekends doing the job himself. “That would not have been a wise choice for us,” Chris laughed. “Our designer, Michelle was very, very, easy to work with; anything we wanted to see or weren’t sure about, she went above and beyond to make this easy for us. She was easy to get hold of and always quick to respond,” the couple said. Michelle pulled ideas that mirrored the couple’s taste and style and was adept at directing the couple to limited choices that didn’t overwhelm them and kept the process moving. “I have a hard time making decisions. Michelle made the decision-making process so easy. I loved how she listened to what I liked and then presented three great options for me to choose from,” Meghan said. The main objectives for the kitchen were better storage solutions, they wanted the space to reflect their lifestyle and taste, and they wanted it to last for years with low maintenance. One of the first steps in creating a more functional kitchen was relocating the refrigerator, creating an improved workflow for the busy family. “We didn’t know that we could even move the refrigerator to a new location where it is now, that was something that we never would have thought of,” Chris said. “The new refrigerator location makes the kitchen feel so much bigger. We didn’t add any space, but our whole kitchen with the new design just seems like it’s so much larger than before!” Meghan said. The perimeter mist colored cabinets helped warm and brighten the entire room, while the graphite colored cabinets on the island added contrast. Using this fresh, clean color palette satisfied the couple’s desire for a bright space that was the exact opposite of what they had before. Organization accessories were also added to the cabinets such as a spice drawer tray and roll outs to create hidden convenience. “I absolutely love the hidden spices – it makes cooking so much more enjoyable!” Chris said. “And all the pull outs, and the double trash bin, who would think you could get so excited about organization!” the couple said in unison. One thing they hated in their original kitchen was how dark the space felt. Added lighting on the ceiling with the new light fixtures combined with the lighter cabinetry colors throughout solved this problem. “Our new kitchen has this warm, almost cozy feeling that our old kitchen never had, it’s just a space that I love spending my time in now,” Meghan said. The light airy feeling was accentuated with the use of floating white shelves on either side of the decorative range hood. “We have so much cabinetry space, the new design is amazing we actually have more storage space than we will ever need,” Meghan said. The island was extended to create more work surface and added space for stool seating. “The new island changes how we live. Now the kids can be in the kitchen with us, doing homework, eating breakfast, and the three of us have special dinners there when Chris is working late,” Meghan said. The Carrara Marmi Quartz countertops were chosen because they are, not only beautiful, but are made from hard-working material that doesn’t require maintenance. The white subway tile backsplash that wraps to the ceiling behind the focal point cooktop range/hood compliments the crisp white countertops perfectly, while brushed brass hardware and light fixtures keep the design fresh and new. The couple had a few fears at the beginning of the project, as most homeowners do. Their biggest fear was being out of their kitchen and laundry room for an extended time. The crew made it very easy for the family to work in a limited space keeping the washer and dryer hooked up the majority of the time, and also getting appliances working with minimal downtime. “They above and beyond accommodated us to get us through the process,” Meghan said. “They did a great job making sure we were as comfortable as possible throughout the process,” Chris added. “Our project manager DJ did a great job. He was very good at updating us on schedule changes, getting guys in as quickly as possible. Everyone that stepped in the house was nice and did great work,” said Chris. They thought Advance’s carpenter was phenomenal and were impressed when he took a conceptual idea from a photograph and worked with designer Michelle to create a one of a kind range/hood that has become the topic of conversation with friends and family who visit the new kitchen. “He was in our house literally every day for several weeks. He was easy to work with and good at what he did,” Meghan and Chris said. The focal point of the kitchen; a hand-crafted, custom-built ventilation hood was clad with handpicked reclaimed barnwood. Advance Design’s carpenter built the framework and the cladding to create a one-of-a-kind design element that the couple loves. “I think it was especially fun for him to create something unique from scratch, showcasing his talent in this area,” Meghan said. “I love that my kitchen is not like everyone else’s. I got to pick out the wood on my hood and watch it being built and was able to choose what pieces of wood went where on it. It’s totally unique.” Red Oak flooring was toothed-in throughout the kitchen and the rest of the first floor anywhere changes were made. Then the whole floor was refinished to tone down the orange undertones in the existing floor stain, ultimately changing the color complexion of the entire first floor. The result is a completely new feeling to the entire home. Renovating the laundry room was extremely important to Meghan and Chris, but they had trouble visualizing what the possibilities were for the seemingly small space. Michelle produced beautiful 3D illustrations that helped them envision the space in a whole new way. “I must have told Michelle 100 times that I am a visual person, seeing the designs in 3D made it so easy to make decisions and see what we could really do with our space,” Meghan said. A dividing wall and doorway were removed between the existing laundry room and hallway formerly containing a coat closet, providing space to design specialized graphite colored cabinetry matching the kitchen island to house custom storage cubbies for each family member. Adding the tall utility cabinetry in the new laundry area helped solve the storage issue, tucking away cleaning supplies, household items, and even the cat got its own cubby. “I love how everything is now hidden in its own space. I can’t tell you how much I hated coming home and seeing everything sitting around on counters,” Chris said. Electrical outlets were planned for the inside of utility cabinets, so devices could charge in hidden locations. Stacking the washer and dryer allowed for wider countertop space to provide a folding area and a special space for clothes to hang. “The way I do laundry has been completely transformed! I can actually fold clothes and hang them now right out of the washer and dryer,” Meghan said. “The end result in the kitchen and the laundry/mud room was an updated light and bright space, with a smarter work flow that better meets the needs of this family,” Michelle said. “I would totally recommend Advance Design,” Meghan said. “Sometimes I sit and just look at my kitchen and laundry room and think ‘Wow, I can’t believe I get to live here!’ It’s an understatement to say we love our new space.”

This kitchen remodel was designed to bring together functionality, brightness, and modern elegance. We installed custom white shaker cabinetry to maximize storage while keeping the space open and timeless. The cabinets are paired with brushed gold hardware, adding a subtle touch of warmth and sophistication. The kitchen features quartz countertops with bold natural veining, providing both durability and a striking visual contrast. A teal subway tile backsplash adds personality and depth, making this kitchen truly stand out while still feeling cohesive and refined. We completed the space with stainless steel appliances, a custom range hood, under-cabinet lighting, and natural hardwood flooring to enhance flow and comfort. The layout was thoughtfully designed to improve workflow, lighting, and everyday usability.

Photo credits: Fauzi Anuar of http://www.zeeandmarina.com
Mid-sized beach style u-shaped eat-in kitchen photo in Singapore with flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, no island, stainless steel appliances, an undermount sink and white backsplash

In this extensive three-floor home renovation, every aspect of the residence was thoughtfully transformed to create a cohesive and inviting space. Starting with the entryway, a new front door and a well-placed staircase immediately set the tone for the home. The interior design was unified with a Coastal theme, updating all the furniture and decor throughout. In the front room and dining area, the removal of unnecessary, outdated columns and bulky shelf space modernized and maximized the functionality of the space. The kitchen underwent a complete overhaul with new appliances, cabinetry, and a spacious island, complete with organizational accessories to enhance workflow. Undercabinet lighting and a custom hood added both practicality and aesthetic appeal. In the living room, a stunning blue tile update to the fireplace and the addition of floating shelves created an eye-catching focal point. The powder bathroom was made more inviting through the use of wallpaper and new accents. Upstairs, the master suite was elegantly updated with Coastal-themed materials and a luxurious freestanding bathtub in the bathroom. The addition of modern accents to the vanity area elevated its appearance. Downstairs, the basement kitchenette was transformed from a dark and outdated space into a bright and clean area. The basement bathroom was updated to match the luxurious style of the upstairs bathroom. Overall, this extensive renovation has breathed new life into the entire house, creating a fresh, modern, and cohesive space that the family will enjoy for years to come.