In the heart of Des Moines, a turn-of-the-century home has undergone a transformation, culminating in a kitchen that blends its historic charm with modern updates. This successful remodel began with understanding the homeowners' goals: to create a large, functional space with plentiful storage and ample room for entertaining family and friends. To achieve this, we combined the existing kitchen with an adjacent pantry/storage space. From thoughtfully chosen finishes that nod to the past to smart, updated appliances, this kitchen is a testament to timeless design, honoring the home's history while creating a vibrant space perfect for modern living.

We partnered with the design team at Texturious Designs who honored existing finishes, like original trim and hardwood floors, while imagining the heart of the home in an updated space that inspires creativity.  The remodeled kitchen brings a fresh aspect with design elements like crown molding, natural wood tones, the range hood and pendant lighting that tie into the origins of the space.

A favorite design feature in the kitchen is the statement range hood. One of the first selections made by the homeowners, the hood was the inspiration for additional decisions to create a subtle space for the hood to really stand out, including the use of open shelving. In areas with open shelving, we're able to take the tile all the way to the ceiling, turning it into a stunning backdrop. Open shelving also allows homeowners to showcase a few curated pieces to bring warmth and personality into the space.

To keep the kitchen light and fresh, the design team presented a palette of lighter, soft colors and warm wood stains. White perimeter cabinets and the stained island are tied together with counters that pull both white and warmth for the perfect blend. The glossy backsplash tile is a favorite touch because it's subtle and natural enough that you can layer onto it, but it also draws the eye in.

This new kitchen was a combination of two smaller spaces. The large island helped make the new layout make sense, creating balance and symmetry. Functionally, the island provides seating for family and guests to gather, space for cooking and baking, storage for pots, pans and larger baking sheets, as well as an extra-large work space for hobbies and other projects.

The kitchen was designed to maximize space and storage for the family. In addition to the large drawers in the island, there is also a hidden, walk-in pantry. To enhance the flow of the kitchen, frequently used items are stored in the island and perimeter cabinetry, while less used, larger extra items are stored in the hidden pantry. This was a game-changer for the family who transitioned from a smaller kitchen to one that is double the size.

There's also a small drop zone off the kitchen that creates space for shoe and coat storage. A bench with hooks and storage was important to include because it's the clients' main point of entry. Now they have a functional area where they can shed outwear and bags before entering the kitchen.

Inspired by this kitchen transformation? It takes just one call to be on the road to loving YOUR home. Reach out here, or attend one of our free remodeling seminars.

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When it comes to home design, every detail counts. While the house is the star of the show, a well-designed garage can elevate an entire property's curb appeal. This beautiful brick home with its perfectly matched garage is a masterclass in creating a cohesive and polished look. What truly makes this property stand out is how the 2025 detached garage complements the 1929 home so seamlessly.

We worked with the homeowners on a lower-level basement finish and remodel, and were excited to work with them to complete this project as well. The existing garage looked nice enough, but the finish, scale and inside left a lot of room for improvement. The garage was tight quarters for two cars and all the gear that comes with home ownership. The space ended up being used primarily for storage while the family's cars sat outside. The garage was uninsulated and had a floor that needed repair.

Visual harmony and curb appeal was just part of the equation as we worked with these Des Moines homeowners on their new garage. A functional and organized interior was also important. In addition to comfortably housing the family's two cars, the garage needs to accommodate household tools, lawn and garden care items, recreational belongings as well as toys for the youngest family member. This strategic use of vertical space ensures that valuable floor space remains clear and usable.

The main level of this garage is a organized space with a place for every tool, every piece of equipment, and every sports item. But the true genius of this design lies in what's hidden just above. Take a peek up the stairs, and you'll find the secret to keeping the garage floor so clear: a massive second-story storage space. Generous, high-ceilinged and dedicated entirely to storage, this isn't your average crawl-space attic. This garage is a testament to how smart storage solutions can transform a typically underutilized space into an efficient and organized asset to any home.

If you're considering a new garage or an update to your existing one, take a page from this book. Think about the materials, colors and architectural features of your main house. By echoing these elements in your garage design, you can create a truly stunning and cohesive property that will stand the test of time.

How can we help you love your home? Attend one of our free kitchen and bath remodeling seminars or reach out for a free design-build consultation.

“What’s it going to cost?” is hands down the most common question we’re asked about remodeling. The true answer is … it depends.

Think about it this way: how much is a new car? You can buy smaller new cars for around $30,000. On the other hand, you can buy a luxury car for $120,000+. So what’s the price of a new car? It really depends on many factors and the same holds true for remodeling. Here are some of the major factors that affect the price of a remodeling project.

Goals – Know your goals so that your remodeler can offer suggestions for getting there. If your goal is to create a spacious, open kitchen, you may need to do an addition. You may also be able to achieve your goal by combining an existing kitchen and a dining room that’s rarely used.

Your Home – Any remodeled space should be commensurate with the rest of your home. If you have a builder grade home, then doing a builder grade basement, for example, is probably ok. If, on the other hand, your home is higher end, you probably want to extend that level of finish throughout the space you are remodeling.

Age of the Home – Older homes, with all their charm, can also increase remodeling costs. Building codes change over time. Homes built prior to 1978 must be remodeled following strict lead-safe procedures. Electrical panels must be brought to code. Older homes are also more likely to reveal “surprises” that can lead to unexpected costs. For example, asbestos containing materials that will be disturbed must be safely removed.

Existing Conditions – Just like no two people are the same, neither are two houses. Some homes are built and maintained better than others and lend themselves more readily to remodeling.

Scope of Work – Are you doing a cosmetic or a custom remodel? Will the remodel be contained to a single area, or will flooring extend throughout an entire floor to create a consistent flow? An addition and a small bath remodel require very different levels of planning and project management, not to mention materials and infrastructure, all of which affect the cost of the project.

Materials – It seems quite logical that higher end materials increase the cost of remodeling, and they do, but it’s incremental. Regardless of the level of materials, two remodeling projects - similar except for the level of materials - still require planning, design, electrical, plumbing, hvac, general labor and project management. Don’t think you’ll spend half as much by using average materials.

You – How close will you stay to your budget? If you have a firm budget, stick with it throughout the planning process (and make sure that your remodeler is sticking with it as well). Beware of the “well if we’re going to do this, then we might as well do that” mentality. A series of seemingly small changes can add up quickly!

Before you even begin meeting with contractors, you can investigate average costs for common remodeling projects in the Des Moines area at costvsvalue.com. Curious about a specific project for your home? Just reach out for a complementary consultation. We’ll help you Love Your Home!

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