Exterior & Living Spaces
A family found themselves at a crossroads. With two growing daughters and a lifestyle that demanded more from their home, they explored Carmel’s housing market in search of a property that could meet their evolving needs. But as they toured potential new homes, they realized that their existing lot and location still held unmatched value. What if, instead of moving, they could reimagine their current home to better suit their lifestyle?
The family’s journey began with an architect, who sketched out ways to transform their home into the space they envisioned. The goal was clear: to create a more contemporary and interactive living environment, especially for entertainment. Early plans focused on enhancing the interior with minimal changes to the exterior façade. However, as the project evolved, the team decided to upgrade the front elevation to match the sophistication of the rest of the house.
The overarching design struck a balance between traditional elements and contemporary updates. Clean lines, drywall-wrapped windows, and motorized blinds added modern functionality while seamlessly integrating with the home’s existing style. This mix of transitional and contemporary aesthetics was carried throughout the home, ensuring harmony between the updated/renovated interior and the home’s original traditional exterior.
The heart of the renovation focused on the main living areas. The architectural changes took the great room ceiling from 8’ to 10’, so to save the original fireplace stone we salvaged stone from other parts of the building to blend with some new stone. The mason then took care to select each stone and the mortar to blend seamlessly with the original. The dining area was tucked next to the entry with a stained ceiling tray detail and chandelier and sconces to help define the function of that space.
One of the standout updates was the way the design brought the outdoors in. Floor-to-ceiling windows were added along the back of the house, filling the interior with natural light and offering stunning views of the pool and outdoor spaces. These windows don’t just look amazing—they’re practical too. With automated blinds, the space is both stylish and functional.
By opening up the main level, the spaces now connect effortlessly, making it perfect for entertaining or just enjoying everyday life as a family. Walls came down to create a home that feels open, inviting, and ready for anything. It’s proof that thoughtful design can bring new life to a space while honoring everything that made it special in the first place.
Kitchen & Pantry Spaces
When a family finds themselves outgrowing their home, the temptation to move is strong. But what if moving isn’t the answer? For this family, the decision to stay and reimagine their existing home proved to be the perfect solution.
Working with an architect, the family outlined a plan to update their kitchen. This kitchen became a beautiful spot for transformation. The main work area of this kitchen is the island and cooktop wall, plenty of space to navigate and prepare meals and beautiful details in the marble splash w pot filler, brass hood accents, lighting and mitered edge island top. Traffic will flow while entertaining in this kitchen with the 2 arched opening on either side of the hood into the living room. State-of-the-art appliances, including a built-in coffee maker that makes mornings smoother and easily elevated the space. The kitchen flows into the sunroom with stained beams connecting the spaces, this sunroom features a fireplace and a jewel of the space a built-in bar. A custom high-gloss bar in “Mari Blue” became a standout feature, complete with a metallic glass picket tile backsplash, brass railings, and open shelving for added functionality. The bar’s bold yet elegant design made it an ideal spot for entertainment.
Functionality was a key consideration throughout the redesign since it was for a busy family. Adjacent to the kitchen, a well-organized pantry and mudroom were incorporated to streamline daily routines. This cohesive design carried the neutral and transitional palette throughout the home, ensuring every space felt connected and intentional.
This renovation turned a once-challenging layout into a dream kitchen and pantry area, blending practicality with modern design. For this family, the choice to stay and transform proved to be the ultimate lifestyle upgrade.
Primary Bedroom & Bathroom
When it comes to home renovations, the magic lies in creating spaces that not only look stunning but also cater to the everyday needs of the client. In this home, a complete transformation of the primary suite and children’s bathroom brought a much-needed update for the family.
Their primary suite underwent a dramatic transformation, becoming a balance of elegance and functionality. The bathroom was completely gutted and redesigned, resulting in a luxurious space centered around a large walk-in shower. Featuring multiple showerheads, a built-in bench seat, and a soaking tub that now rests under a new window, the area is bathed in natural light and exudes spa-like energy.
New custom vanities were installed to add closed storage to keep the space clean and clutter-free. One vanity includes a makeup area with a chair, offering peaceful moments for daily routines. Every detail was thoughtfully planned with the client to bring their dream space to life.
The children’s side of the house also saw an impressive makeover. What was once a basic hall bathroom is now a reimagined Jack-and-Jill bathroom shared between two bedrooms. Relocating and redesigning this space provided each bedroom with direct access to the bathroom, making it the perfect shared solution.
In addition to the bathroom upgrade, both bedrooms were expanded to include custom walk-in closets. These changes turned the children’s rooms into stylish and functional spaces that will grow with them. The thoughtful redesign ensures that every square foot is utilized effectively, making daily routines easier for the whole family.
This renovation shows how great design can breathe new life into a home, creating spaces that are both beautiful and tailored to the unique needs of the family as they continue to grow. From the luxurious primary suite to the practical and stylish Jack-and-Jill bathroom, each update has added value and functionality to the home.
Whether you’re considering a similar transformation or just dreaming of your perfect space, these updates remind us that great design isn’t just found in new homes—it can be created in your current one.