Home renovation projects don’t happen overnight—they evolve over time. Ideas come from myriad influences. Life happens. Plans shift.
In 2016, I met the lighting designer Brooke Silber-Carter of BR&A Consulting Engineers when she gave a presentation about LEDs at Sacco Carpet. We stayed in touch, and years later, she reached out for help redesigning key spaces in her family’s home.
Over time, their home had become cluttered and inefficient, lacking a natural flow.
The objective was to bring some luxury into the every day.
Home Entryway
This is a VERY active family! They travel, hike, ski, cycle, play tennis, entertain…you name it. But with all that activity came a challenge that greeted you right away: no dedicated storage.
Space Planning
To match their evolving lifestyle, we started with space planning.
We relocated the entrance and created a dedicated mudroom. Level Home Improvements built custom closets, incorporating a ski rack, boot dryer and ample storage for their personal belongings (some of which remain out of sight).
Multi-Purpose Seating Area
Just beyond the mudroom was a seating area that had become an impromptu workspace. This makeshift moment – when kitchen tables became work areas- defined 2020 and 2021 for so many families.
We transformed this space into a casual farmhouse aesthetic using the wife’s favorite color green. Sherwin Williams Coastal Plain (SW 6192) became the star of the show!
A modern metal cone pendant now crowns the table, where the family can gather, share meals, or work. The new design seamlessly connects to the kitchen, inviting guests to flow naturally between spaces.
Photography by Andrew Frasz.
Redefining the Heart of the Home
This kitchen makeover is all about light, flow and personality. The transformation started with saying goodbye to decades-old wallpaper.
Moving from an island to a peninsula was proposed in order to improve functionality while creating an inviting gathering space.
A new, oversized window floods the kitchen with natural light, elevating everyday moments. Open shelving adds a curated charm while keeping essentials within reach.
Say goodbye to white kitchens and hello to personality!
This kitchen feels like it has always belonged to them – modern, personal and filled with warmth. The soft green hue adds a fresh, calming energy while embracing the trend of colorful kitchens in 2025.
Mosaics, Modern Moments, and Moroccan Bone Inlay
Featuring SICIS mosaic tiles in a color palette inspired by the surrounding nature preserve. Mr Remodels executed the reverse-set installation beautifully.
Thoughtful details bring the design together – from the handcrafted backsplash to the curated accents.
This kitchen is proof that bold color choices and biophilic design can transform any space into a welcoming, stylish haven.
The mosaic theme continues into the guest bathroom, but this time, we took a different approach with color. The contrast between black and white and use of mosaics is striking yet seamless, detailed yet timeless. Moreland Tile Co. did the tiling for the bathroom in these spaces.
Value Engineered Project Management
White tile may seem simple, but finding the perfect one at the right price is an art. When the numbers didn’t align, we had to rethink the specifications. The original plan featured a unique triangular white tile to echo the mosaic details. The process of value engineering isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about making every decision count while maintaining the design’s integrity. We were able to figure out a solutions across the project that made best use of the client’s budget.
Spa-Inspired Bathroom
The client had a bold vision for a sauna bathroom where there was previously a storage area. The family wanted more space to be able to relax and restore their energy.
While a full sauna turned out not to be feasible, we embraced the spa-like feel through materials and lighting. Wood-look porcelain tile from TileBar sets the tone, creating depth and texture without the limitations of real wood in a wet environment.Signature Hardware’s deep soaking tub anchors the space, offering a moment of relaxation. A Lutron Electronics system shifts effortlessly between bright, functional light and a soft, spa-like glow, enhancing the ambiance.
A floating vanity and integrated backlit mirror embody modern elegance.
While a unique illuminated feature wall adds depth and tranquility. Thoughtful storage solutions keep the space streamlined and functional.
Sometimes, limitations aren’t roadblocks—they’re invitations to think differently and come up with creative solutions.
And in this case? The result offers more everyday luxury than the original sauna plan ever could.
This project was a wonderful example of how interior design can bring more than renovation; it’s a reinvention of home. From the homeowner to the contractor (Brian Artinger of Artinger and Sons) everyone contributed in ways that inspire me. I hope you feel the same way!
For more project photos, view the portfolio link for the NJ luxury home renovation.
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