The Kitchen Master

Jun 2014

This Hinsdale home was a classic example of a great room size that was underutilized. A small and crowded kitchen L with a large desk / pantry area did not provide an adequate work triangle, countertop prep zones, storage needs, or entertaining ability. By moving the sink to a large custom island, we were able to make better use of the original L, create an expanded work triangle with double the countertop / storage space, and reformat the desk / pantry wall into a decorative dry bar area with oversized pantries. Mixed finishes, open storage, glass doors, and a custom wood hood highlight the focal points.

Hinsdale, IL

Mar 2014

Improved storage, an expanded shower, a free standing tub, and a simplified color pallet were all goals for this Naperville master bathroom project. The vanities were redesigned to remove seating spaces and add tower / pantry storage. This change also allowed for the sinks to be centered for a balanced look that maximized function. The shower and tub locations were reversed to allow for an enlarged custom shower with seating and a focal location to display the freestanding tub. Removing the wall paper and small tiles allowed us to simplify the space with a cool paint tone, large format tiles in inviting patterns, and clean vanity finishes.

Naperville, IL

Mar 2014

This Naperville project was focused on improved focal points, function, storage, and appliances. We were able to increase the overall cabinet storage by using taller cabinets with improved storage systems. A crucial change to the design that created the desired focal points was the change from a double oven / cooktop design to a professional grade range with wood hood. This transition made the cooking area an anchor to the room from all directions. The removal of a large double oven cabinet also created an additional prep area for entertaining options. The placement of a built-in refrigerator, improved island layout in a mixed finish, farm sink, and a dry bar with glass doors and a beverage refrigerator allowed us to accomplish all goals.

Naperville, IL

Jan 2014

These Naperville clients were struggling with a cramped kitchen and a dining room that was rarely used. After the interview process, we decided to pursue removing the dining room wall for an expanded kitchen that would accomplish their goal of creating a gathering center to the home. It was easy for them to fall in love with the idea of multiple focal points, entertaining options, and twice the storage / countertop space. Design highlights include two sinks, two islands, a recessed niche behind the range, mixed cabinet finishes, exotic granite counters, and a custom dry bar.

Naperville, IL

Jan 2014

This Orland Park master bath had multiple design challenges; most pressing was the poor lighting and that almost half the room was dedicated to an oversized tub platform. This platform limited the rest of the bath to a small vanity and shower space with poor access. By reclaiming the tub deck area, we were able to design a balanced room with a custom shower, expanded double vanity, and traditional size tub. The limited lighting was addressed with multiple sconces throughout and light beige tile surfaces. Custom walnut cabinets were used in the vanity area to add warmth to an otherwise clean lined design.

Orland Park, IL

Jul 2013

The goals for this Naperville kitchen renovation were clear from the first meeting; expand the room to make the house feel more open, design a large island for entertaining, and help convert the home to a contemporary design. By removing the wall between the kitchen and the seldom used dining room, we were able to have the desired space to investigate multiple routes for the kitchen layout. A clean lined island with slab walnut doors and a large quartz countertop were selected as the foundation to the room. Professional grade appliances, dark wide frame cabinet doors, a different quartz countertop color, and open shelf storage were used to finish off the modern feel and clean appearance.

Naperville, IL

Nov 2012

The main goal of the clients and designer in this multi-room remodeling was to transform the old stark white kitchen with its unattractive drywall pantry and massive soffits and incorporate the hearth area and breakfast nook into a warm and open rustic space with Old World charm. The beautiful result was achieved by building and installing hand-distressed ceiling beams, aged and glazed cherry cabinets, a new stone fireplace surround, a stone and plaster arched hood and a matching window arch. Unique details are found throughout-from the antique bronze mesh drawer fronts, tile wall accents to the natural slate island counter. The clients also wanted to update their appliances, create additional storage and have a more functional layout. To do this, the refrigerator was moved to the side wall with new cabinet pantries and the cooktop was moved from the island to the back wall allowing the large island to be used for food prep, ample seating and serving guests.

Naperville, IL

Jun 2012

Personal touches and enhanced storage features transformed a poorly planned and needlessly divided room into a beautiful kitchen enjoyed by family and friends. The requirements were to design a warm, inviting space that would give their active family a central gathering place, and also provide room to entertain friends. The refrigerator was relocated and a long plumbing wall was removed to open the room into a larger more attractive space. A large island with seating coupled with a wine reserve, warming drawer, multifunctional ovens and pantry storage make meal preparation and entertaining easier and more enjoyable. The lighted cubicles for the clients Murano vase collection and the carved stone fireplace surround complete this elegant traditional transformation.

Darien, IL

Jun 2012

This very private and warm master bath spa retreat was created by relocating all the plumbing fixtures, removing the existing closets, and building a large walk-in closet above the garage attic. Warm tones with contrasting fixtures, a curb-less shower, a contemporary free standing tub, and suspended cabinets modernize an outdated bathroom. Contributing to the relaxing atmosphere, built in speakers, TV, and a beverage center were added. A variety of convenient storage solutions, such as a concealed makeup mirror, pull out hampers and a trash bin, were incorporated within the cabinet design.

Naperville, IL