Design Studios

630.455.5600 847.291.7701
Request An Appointment

What is Design Build?

See Our Work

Make a Payment

site-logo-mob
630.455.5600 847.291.7701

Make a Payment

Request An Appointment
CLOSE MENU

Let’s get started!

To request an appointment please call 630.455.5600

    Author: Kristina Ferrigan

    The Trend of Arches in Home Remodeling

    Posted on by Kristina Ferrigan

    Winter white kitchen with slab backsplash and cherry stained island and accent cabinetsArches are one of those classic design details that, while subtle, can make a big impact. The iconic shape might fly under the radar, but arches are making their way back into all areas of home remodels.

    “Arches introduce softness into a space, providing relief from the typical, somewhat rigid, rectangular shapes we’ve all become accustomed to,” says Normandy Designer Kathryn O’Donovan. “The classic arching shape is a callback to traditional design, but they integrate well in virtually any style. Arches are one of the rare design details that are truly aesthetic neutral.”

    While arched doorways are common in certain architectural styles of homes, think beyond the doorway. “Whenever you’re defining a space, you have an opportunity to introduce an arch,” notes Kathryn. “We’re seeing arches show up in shower niches, coffee nooks and kitchen cabinetry.” Anything that would otherwise be squared off can be a candidate for an arched top.

    The elegant curves of an arch may fit nearly every design style, but they can exert some pressure on your budget.

    Black coffee bar in an arch top alcove near the kitchen accented with a black subway tile backsplash“Incorporating an arch in a doorway can be an added cost for your remodel, as it will require additional framing,” says Kathryn. Likewise, arched nooks and niches will also require curved framing, potentially additional finishing materials, and a properly skilled craftsman to execute them beautifully.

    Outside of doorways and niches, cabinetry is a common component to upgrade with an arch.

    “Cabinetry costs will increase as you introduce arched doors to a standard rectangular cabinet,” shares Kathryn. “But if you want the entire cabinet curved, not just the door, that can be a more expensive selection overall.”

    No matter where or how you choose to integrate arches into your home remodel, the result will be a long-lasting design element that can endure any style evolutions your home may go through over the years.

    Do you have a vision for an updated look to your home? Set up a time to talk with Kathryn to discuss your ideas for a transformation in any space, from kitchens to bathrooms. To get regular design ideas and tips, subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, Pinterest or LinkedIn.

    Arched shower niche in beige zellige tile   French doors in a small office with wood ceiling . winter white pantry cabinet in the kitchen

    Ivory painted kitchen cabinets with stained walnut island

    Modern traditional kitchen features winter white cabinetry and contrasting arch top cherry cabinets on either side of the cooktop  Clawfoot tub with chandelier in tiled barrel ceiling

     

    How to Blend Your Kitchen Design with Your Living Space

    Posted on by Kristina Ferrigan

    Ivory painted kitchen cabinets with stained walnut island, bar with floating shelvesHaving the kitchen connected to a living area has its benefits, such as interacting with guests and family while cooking or keeping an eye on the kids while doing the dishes. But one of the challenges can be — how do you make the rooms feel distinct but still complementary? Here are some tips on how to successfully blend your kitchen design with your living space.

    “Whether you’re choosing a more open-concept approach to improve traffic flow as part of your remodel, or updating an existing layout, the goal is to make the spaces feel separate yet connected aesthetically,” says Normandy Designer Kathryn O’Donovan.

    Using similar materials, styles and colors is a simple place to start. For instance, consider choosing cabinets and furnishings with similar lines and features.Ivory kitchen with stainless steel appliances “Statement pieces like your kitchen island can be customized with details like cabinet feet that complement your living space style, whether that’s traditional or modern,” Kathryn says.

    The nuance comes in the details, Kathryn points out.

    “For example, open shelves are a great way to tie two rooms together,” Kathryn says. “They allow for some continuity, but the items you put on the shelves can also help distinguish the individual spaces. Similar materials, different styling.”

    In a recent project, Kathryn redesigned an existing kitchen peninsula to add shelving to the side facing the living area. The couple then populated the shelves with art items and books that catered more to the feeling of their living space. “By taking the paneling off that side of the peninsula and doing open shelves, it created more of a formal vibe,” Kathryn says. “The peninsula now has one character, but two personalities.”

    Another way to blend your kitchen design with your living space is to add a separate element like a bar, with similar aesthetics, which acts as a transition between spaces both conceptually and visually.

    Do you have a vision for an updated kitchen and living space with flow and continuity? Set up a time to talk with Kathryn to discuss your ideas for a kitchen transformation. To get regular design ideas and tips, subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, Pinterest or LinkedIn.

    Modern off-white kitchen with island and peninsula

    Explore More

    Schedule an Appointment