This artistic and design-forward family approached us at the beginning of the pandemic with a design prompt to blend their love of midcentury modern design with their Caribbean roots. With her parents originating from Trinidad & Tobago and his parents from Jamaica, they wanted their home to be an authentic representation of their heritage, with a midcentury modern twist. We found inspiration from a colorful Trinidad & Tobago tourism poster that they already owned and carried the tropical colors throughout the house — rich blues in the main bathroom, deep greens and oranges in the powder bathroom, mustard yellow in the dining room and guest bathroom, and sage green in the kitchen. This project was featured on Dwell in January 2022.

This renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income. DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request. MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic. RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income. ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them. URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances. OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values. Eric Roth Photo

Farm Kid Studios
Bathroom - mid-sized contemporary master porcelain tile and beige tile porcelain tile bathroom idea in Minneapolis with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, an undermount sink and gray walls

H2D Architecture + Design developed a comprehensive vision for the renovation of this Bellevue residence, creating a cohesive master plan that can be implemented in phased construction to align with the homeowners' priorities, budget, and timeline. The first phase reimagined the primary suite, including a redesigned bathroom, reconfigured closet and bedroom. Strategic space planning enhanced the functionality and flow of each space while creating a serene, spa-inspired retreat tailored to the homeowners' lifestyle. Future phases will transform the home's main living areas through a complete reconfiguration of the kitchen, dining room, entry, and living room. The design will improve circulation, increase functionality, and create light-filled, beautifully connected spaces. Architecture: H2D Architecture + Design www.h2darchitects.com Interiors: Kat Lawton Interiors Photos by: John Granen

Layered in timeless blues, soft greens, and warm creams, this space balances tradition with everyday comfort. Thoughtfully designed with family in mind, the room invites both connection and quiet moments—ample seating encourages gathering, while a dedicated game table sets the stage for friendly competition and shared memories. A traditional secretary desk adds a functional, collected touch, perfect for homework, correspondence, or simply keeping life organized. Comfortable, classic, and meant to be lived in—this is a living room where style and family life coexist beautifully.

Master primary bathroom and closet renovation featuring blue subway tile, walnut wood and brass accents
Bathroom - large transitional master blue tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile, double-sink and wood ceiling bathroom idea in Dallas with beaded inset cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a drop-in sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops and a built-in vanity

Multiple projects have been completed in and around this small house including the creation of a master suite, implementation of 2 gardens, an exterior A/V system that allows the owner to project movies on the back of his house, a stainless steel kitchen, new dining room and a converted garage into home office renovation.

Remodeling the master bath provided many design challenges. The long and narrow space was visually expanded by removing an impeding large linen closet from the space. The additional space allowed for two sinks where there was previously only one. In addition, the long and narrow window in the bath provided amazing natural light, but made it difficult to incorporate vanity mirrors that were tall enough. The designer solved this issue by incorporating pivoting mirrors that mounted just below the long window. Finally, a custom walnut vanity was designed to utilize every inch of space. The vanity front steps in and out on the ends to make access by the toilet area more functional and spacious. A large shower with a built in quartz shower seat and hand held shower wand provide touch of luxury. Finally, the ceramic floor tile design provides a mid century punch without overpowering the tranquil space.

James Maynard, Vantage Imagery
Inspiration for a contemporary master gray tile bathroom remodel in Denver

Modern Farmhouse designed for entertainment and gatherings. French doors leading into the main part of the home and trim details everywhere. Shiplap, board and batten, tray ceiling details, custom barrel tables are all part of this modern farmhouse design. ​ Half bath with a custom vanity. Clean modern windows. Living room has a fireplace with custom cabinets and custom barn beam mantel with ship lap above. The Master Bath has a beautiful tub for soaking and a spacious walk in shower. Front entry has a beautiful custom ceiling treatment.

When a world class sailing champion approached us to design a Newport home for his family, with lodging for his sailing crew, we set out to create a clean, light-filled modern home that would integrate with the natural surroundings of the waterfront property, and respect the character of the historic district. Our approach was to make the marine landscape an integral feature throughout the home. One hundred eighty degree views of the ocean from the top floors are the result of the pinwheel massing. The home is designed as an extension of the curvilinear approach to the property through the woods and reflects the gentle undulating waterline of the adjacent saltwater marsh. Floodplain regulations dictated that the primary occupied spaces be located significantly above grade; accordingly, we designed the first and second floors on a stone “plinth” above a walk-out basement with ample storage for sailing equipment. The curved stone base slopes to grade and houses the shallow entry stair, while the same stone clads the interior’s vertical core to the roof, along which the wood, glass and stainless steel stair ascends to the upper level. One critical programmatic requirement was enough sleeping space for the sailing crew, and informal party spaces for the end of race-day gatherings. The private master suite is situated on one side of the public central volume, giving the homeowners views of approaching visitors. A “bedroom bar,” designed to accommodate a full house of guests, emerges from the other side of the central volume, and serves as a backdrop for the infinity pool and the cove beyond. Also essential to the design process was ecological sensitivity and stewardship. The wetlands of the adjacent saltwater marsh were designed to be restored; an extensive geo-thermal heating and cooling system was implemented; low carbon footprint materials and permeable surfaces were used where possible. Native and non-invasive plant species were utilized in the landscape. The abundance of windows and glass railings maximize views of the landscape, and, in deference to the adjacent bird sanctuary, bird-friendly glazing was used throughout. Photo: Michael Moran/OTTO Photography

Beth Therriault Photography, LLC www.bethtphotos.com This glorious master bedroom overlooks the lake on three sides thanks to the well placed, floor to ceiling windows and side windows. Baby blue walls bring the sky indoors while the dark wood furnishings keep the space cozy and warm.

Palm Springs house remodel by H3K Design. Photo by Patrick Ketchum
Inspiration for a 1950s white tile double shower remodel in Los Angeles with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets and dark wood cabinets

Client Testimonial from project: John just completed my master bathroom gut as well as refinishing my hardwood floors and powder bath remodel. I can't say enough about John and his team. He is quick to respond, trustworthy, organized, timely, and does beautiful work. I'm an interior designer, so I know exactly how I want the finished project to look and John delivered exactly what I wanted down to the tiniest detail. My master bath was a complicated project with lots of custom details and he came up with creative ways to implement such a design. It was nice to leave on several week long vacations and not only trust that my house and belongings were safe and watched after, but also to be able to see the progress that he documented daily with photos and notes on BuilderTrend - a website that he uses to communicate with clients. I will most certainly use Ammirato Construction in the future, and well as recommend them to clients and friends. Virtual Imagery 360 Photography

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW A tired primary bathroom, with varying ceiling heights and a beige-on-beige color scheme, was screaming for love. Squaring the room and adding natural materials erased the memory of the lack luster space and converted it to a bright and welcoming spa oasis. The home was a new build in 2005 and it looked like all the builder’s material choices remained. The client was clear on their design direction but were challenged by the differing ceiling heights and were looking to hire a design-build firm that could resolve that issue. This local Glen Ellyn couple found us on Instagram (@kitchenstudioge, follow us ?). They loved our designs and felt like we fit their style. They requested a full primary bath renovation to include a large shower, soaking tub, double vanity with storage options, and heated floors. The wife also really wanted a separate make-up vanity. The biggest challenge presented to us was to architecturally marry the various ceiling heights and deliver a streamlined design. The existing layout worked well for the couple, so we kept everything in place, except we enlarged the shower and replaced the built-in tub with a lovely free-standing model. We also added a sitting make-up vanity. We were able to eliminate the awkward ceiling lines by extending all the walls to the highest level. Then, to accommodate the sprinklers and HVAC, lowered the ceiling height over the entrance and shower area which then opens to the 2-story vanity and tub area. Very dramatic! This high-end home deserved high-end fixtures. The homeowners also quickly realized they loved the look of natural marble and wanted to use as much of it as possible in their new bath. They chose a marble slab from the stone yard for the countertops and back splash, and we found complimentary marble tile for the shower. The homeowners also liked the idea of mixing metals in their new posh bathroom and loved the look of black, gold, and chrome. Although our clients were very clear on their style, they were having a difficult time pulling it all together and envisioning the final product. As interior designers it is our job to translate and elevate our clients’ ideas into a deliverable design. We presented the homeowners with mood boards and 3D renderings of our modern, clean, white marble design. Since the color scheme was relatively neutral, at the homeowner’s request, we decided to add of interest with the patterns and shapes in the room. We were first inspired by the shower floor tile with its circular/linear motif. We designed the cabinetry, floor and wall tiles, mirrors, cabinet pulls, and wainscoting to have a square or rectangular shape, and then to create interest we added perfectly placed circles to contrast with the rectangular shapes. The globe shaped chandelier against the square wall trim is a delightful yet subtle juxtaposition. The clients were overjoyed with our interpretation of their vision and impressed with the level of detail we brought to the project. It’s one thing to know how you want a space to look, but it takes a special set of skills to create the design and see it thorough to implementation. Could hiring The Kitchen Studio be the first step to making your home dreams come to life?

2010 NARI CAPITAL COTY GRAND AWARD WINNER The homeowner wanted to add square footage and implement an aging-in-place strategy that will enable her to live out her days in residence with dignified self-sufficiency. Specifically, she was seeking an updated family room and larger master bedroom suite. Additionally, she wanted to maintain the original intent of the Cape Cod style. A 28’ x 29’ addition was split between the new family room and the new master suite. First, every doorway into the master suite was redone for better accessibility. The suite itself features a cathedral ceiling, skylights and recessed lighting. The master suite bathroom has features a whirlpool bath, walk-in shower and double vanity. Grab bars and other handicap-accessible features are incorporated for aging in place living. A double-sided fireplace connects the master suite and the family room.

Home Bar Design Pendants by Dounia Home, Mishal Silver Ball PendantBarstools by Canadel, Custom Dining Stools This 15,000 square foot home is a ground up classic Mediterranean Villa in Los Altos Hills, designed with a nod to a more elevated contemporary interior design. Our client is a High Level VC who hoped to limit time away from his young family. The scope of the project was to design a family-friendly home, while including all of the high style and high-tech amenities and conveniences expected in a Silicon Valley estate. Designing with these requirements in mind, our team created functional spaces for family life while maintaining business requirements in one space. This balance between comfort and professionalism was implemented through masterful layout and design including a private gathering room that can host up to 100 guests, which was intentionally designed to entertain business meetings, lessening the need for travel, and allowing for a more balanced lifestyle. Other features include a Screening Room, Bar and Wine Tasting Area, Private Library and Executive office, and Grand Dining Room.

Andrea Rugg Photography
Example of a small classic kids' black and white tile and ceramic tile marble floor and gray floor corner shower design in Minneapolis with blue cabinets, a two-piece toilet, blue walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops and shaker cabinets

Compact master bath remodel, with hair accessories plug ins, Swiss Alps Photography
Inspiration for a small timeless master beige tile and travertine tile travertine floor and multicolored floor walk-in shower remodel in Portland with raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a wall-mount toilet, beige walls, an undermount sink, quartz countertops and a hinged shower door