Open concept great room (kitchen, living room, dining room). Kitchen and dining room are located to the left of the living room in this picture.

Designer: Tracy Rasor, Allied ASID Design Firm: Dallas Design Group, Interiors Photographer: Dan Piassick

The design approach for each room was to compliment the existing traditional setting by introducing contemporary focal elements. The family room and kitchen are highlighted by an Ochre chandelier with reclaimed wood armoire and console by CFC and Nepalese rug from Lapchi Atelier. The office sconces by Remains Lighting accent the room’s dark reds similarly to the Century chairs in the dining room. Drapery throughout the house was fabricated and installed by Deco Home, who also fabricated the master bed and bench from custom designs by SO|DA.

Traditional Kitchen and Family Room, Benvenuti and Stein, Design Build Chicago North Shore

Elegant family room for a private residence. Mix of soothing neutrals, bling and natural material. Black built-ins with grasscloth wallcovering, arched fireplace, brown wall, oil painting, wooden bench, blue velvet sofas, blue accent pillows, mixing patterns, ottomans, lounge chairs, and black coffee table, Allentown PA

Rich materials and strong geometries match the resolve of the brick. Cast concrete countertops and stainless steel cabinetry create a contemporary cooking space. The curved teak and stainless steel island has two tiers: one for the prep area and appliances, and a higher level for bar stool seating with direct views to a large, flat-screen television. Photography Gus Cantavero

Basement Over $100,000 (John Kraemer and Sons)

This living room, which opens to the kitchen, has everything you need. Plenty of built-ins to display and store treasures, a gas fireplace to add warmth on a cool evening and easy access to the beautifully landscaped yard. Damianos Photography

Photography: davidduncanlivingston.com

Study, watch tv and play with the kids all in one space.

A backyard retreat in Dallas, Texas that features a wonderful outdoor living area and luxury swimming pool. This private oasis features a custom designed covered outdoor living pavilion with exposed timber beams and stone columns. The pavilion also features an BBQ grill, outdoor kitchen and seating area for entertaining the entire family. The luxury swimming pool features a travertine terrace and limestone coping. A backdrop fountain feature with decorative spouts, urns and tile which provides a focal feature and relaxing background noise.

Gregory Storm / LA Home Photography

Jim Schmid Photography