Two Kitchens, One Home Designer: Gladys Shanstra, AKBD T h e   S e t u p From the very beginning, this new-construction project was conceived not as a kitchen with a supporting space, but as two fully realized kitchens working in tandem. The homeowners envisioned a home where entertaining, everyday

Mid-Century Modern Duo: A Bathroom Designed for Two Designer: Emily Kreber, AKBD T h e   S e t u p What was once a dated and inefficient bathroom — filled with beige tones and chrome fixtures — was transformed into a sleek, modern space that reflects the couple’s unique

Organized Oasis T h e   S e t u p While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance.

Custom Home Bar with Character T h e   S e t u p Situated between the front kitchen and the home’s primary living spaces, this bar was originally conceived as a modest bistro-style nook – a place to sit, watch TV, and enjoy a drink. As the design process

Tailored and Functional Laundry Room T h e   S e t u p Before Gladys undertook a comprehensive renovation of this Chicago high-rise apartment, it featured a European-style kitchen with a seamlessly integrated washer/dryer. As the kitchen’s washing niche transformed into an essential pantry, the superfluous powder room was

Collected Elegance Kitchen T h e   S e t u p The homeowners had spent years thoughtfully collecting artwork, antiques and whimsical heirlooms that gave their home a distinctive personality. Their original kitchen, however, never felt like part of that collection. While rich in storage, the decades-old space was

Modern Jewel Box Powder Room T h e   S e t u p The smallest rooms in a home often create the biggest impressions. Located adjacent to a newly remodeled mudroom, this powder room was transformed from a functional but understated space into a striking design feature that reflects the

Natural Warmth Kitchen T h e   S e t u p When this young family purchased their new home, they saw potential everywhere — but they also knew nearly every major space needed updating before move-in day. With three young children and a move planned from out of state,

Calm, Contemporary Primary Bath T h e   S e t u p As part of a larger whole-home renovation for a young family relocating from out of state, this primary bathroom remodel focused on transforming a cramped, outdated space into something calmer, brighter, and far more functional for everyday

Spa-Worthy Primary Bath T h e   S e t u p These homeowners found themselves facing a different decision. Their family loved the neighborhood, loved the home, and had no real desire to move. Yet several spaces throughout the house still reflected an earlier renovation that never felt quite