Studio A & C

We're thrilled to share this recent kitchen transformation that honors our clients' love for their home's classic details while boldly updating the space.

The homeowners made the daring choice to swap the kitchen and formal dining room locations. This move, coupled with widening the opening to the family room, created a more open, flowing space perfect for both daily life and entertaining.

The star of the new kitchen? Sleek black cabinets that add sophisticated depth to the kitchen. We love this choice! For balance, we minimized upper cabinets, opting for glass-front units that flank a stunning brass sink and faucet.

Soapstone countertops offer a beautiful contrast, pairing perfectly with brass accents throughout. White tile walls bring in a touch of classic charm, creating a space that feels both fresh and timeless. It's a delicate balance - cozy and inviting, yet undeniably elegant. The result is a kitchen that could be from a 1920s film set, but with all the modern functionality today's homeowners need. We're particularly proud of how we maintained the home's character while creating a distinctly modern space.

Swipe to see the before and after. We'd love to hear which elements catch your eye!

At Studio A&C, we believe a successful remodel hinges on great teamwork and strong connections. We are fortunate to collaborate with some of the best in the West Michigan industry, and our latest kitchen renovation showcases what we achieve together. Make sure you swipe all the way through to see the before photos!

For this project, we partnered with:
Interior Design: – Sara Dupin & Becky Miedema
Builder: Built by JS Garrett
Cabinetry: .greenfieldcabinetry

This cohesive team effort resulted in a beautifully reconfigured space. By removing the bay window in the dining area, we extended cabinetry storage along the entire wall, allowing us to rotate and expand the island for additional seating and entertaining space. The existing Butler’s pantry was transformed into a walk-in pantry, custom bar, and a drop zone off the family entryway.

Among the many custom features in this kitchen are sliding doors in the quartz backsplash behind the range, revealing walnut spice shelves, a metal range hood designed to integrate with the room’s central wood beam, natural walnut cabinet interiors, and seven built-in appliances with custom cabinet panels, including a fridge and freezer with metal inserts and a built-in dishwasher drawer in the island.

We are proud of the seamless collaboration and the stunning results we achieved with our trusted partners. Each project is a new adventure, and we’re grateful to share these experiences with such talented professionals. Here’s to many more successful projects together!

View the full project here ➡ https://studioaandc.com/san-jose-kitchen-bar-drop-zone/

Our most recent transformation project truly speaks volumes when you see the before-and-after photos 👀- be sure to swipe! The kitchen had a choppy, non-functional layout, while its brown tones failed to capitalize on the abundant natural light pouring in through the windows. The space was tight, with unique features like a hanging ceiling hood fan and a peninsula that disrupted the workflow. As for the design, the client wanted to blend classic design elements with a modern twist. With some creative planning and the interior design expertise of Amanda Millwood Designs, we were able to bring their vision to life!

Here's what we did:
🔹 Removed the peninsula and added a stylish island with seating to create a natural flow to the dining room.
🔹 Built-in fridge, pantry, and smart storage for small appliances.
🔹 Made the beautiful red range the stunning focal point.

Ready to fall in love with your kitchen again? Let Studio A&C work its magic on your cabinet space!

We recently had the pleasure of working with clients who moved to Michigan and wanted to update their kitchen and master bath to make their new house feel more like home. We significantly brightened and modernized their spaces without altering the floor plan or windows.

Kitchen Update: Keeping the original layout to accommodate the existing floors, we focused on lightening the space with sleek cabinetry and black hardware that complements the home's existing fixtures. Quartz countertops and a white tile backsplash added brightness, while a granite buffet became a unique focal point. The buffet k***s, made from Petosky stones collected by the clients, add a personal and nature-inspired touch.

Master Bath Expansion: By adding just two feet to the master bath, we greatly enhanced its functionality and aesthetic. The addition allowed for a second sink, a larger linen cabinet, and a makeup vanity. Replacing the old tub with a tile shower and a glass door and updating the fixtures to warm matte brass made the bathroom feel more spacious and inviting. The use of LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring further contributed to the room's light and airy feel.

The choice of colors and materials throughout both spaces played a crucial role in achieving a brighter, more welcoming environment that reflects the client's love for a calm, natural look and feel.

Swipe to see the transformation and how strategic design choices can make all the difference in lighting up a home.

Studio A&C teamed up with some truly remarkable folks to breathe new life into a home that really needed to break free from its outdated, closed-off self. We had the pleasure of working with the incredibly skilled team at Built by JS Garrett, the visionary Carolle Spence, who truly is a designer extraordinaire, and our friends at Siteline Cabinetry and Greenfield Cabinetry.

The main goal was transforming a compartmentalized main floor into a space where natural light and a growing family could flow freely. Removing a wall between the kitchen and dining area unlocked more usable square footage and opened up the staircase, giving a fresh and inviting feel to the entire main level.

In the kitchen, we introduced sleek, slab-front cabinets that transformed the area into a modern, functional space. As for the mudroom – often the unsung hero for any family – we installed custom-built functional storage and benches. The perfect area for muddy boots and school bags, streamlining daily routines and making life a bit easier for the family.

This renovation reminds us that we're not confined by the current layout of our homes. With vision, creativity, and collaboration, any space can be transformed into a place that not only looks beautiful but also works beautifully for you and your family.

A huge shoutout to the entire team for making this project a resounding success. From the initial sketches to the final touches, it's been a whole lot of fun! Swipe to see the stunning transformation.

Built by JS Garrett

Siteline Cabinetry
Greenfield Cabinetry

Our clients found the perfect "Up North Getaway" with an incredible location and that inherent Michigan charm. But like many older homes, this property required a whole lot of creativity and vision to marry its cozy, rustic charm with an updated and livable redesign. The owners wanted a space that blended functionality with a welcoming, open feel - perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

Open Floor Plan: We knocked down walls between the kitchen & living area and the kitchen & fireplace area. The result? A seamless, airy space that invites conversation and togetherness.

Kitchen Double Islands: Functionality meets style with two islands - one dedicated to culinary prep and the other as a hub for guests to gather around.

Master Bath Overhaul: A complete transformation with a freestanding tub, expansive shower, and a sleek dual vanity. A true spa-like retreat.

Efficient Main Floor Bath: Even though we smartly borrowed a foot from the bathroom to expand the dining room, by reconfiguring the space, we were able to include a dual-sink vanity, perfect for hosting.

Powder Bath Update: Compact yet stylish with a wall-hung sink and clever storage solutions.

With a mix of wood and textures, this "Up-North Getaway" now exudes warmth, modernity, and style. 📸 Swipe to see the stunning transformation!

Featuring and .greenfieldcabinetry

When space is tight, you just need a little extra lift! 💪

The finishing touch on this gorgeous midcentury modern galley kitchen included a base cabinet lift system for their KitchenAid mixer. In addition to freeing up counter space, the lift system is a back saver (those mixers are heavy!). And best of all, there is storage underneath the mixer platform for your accessories. Your kitchen only looks as good as it's easy to use. And details like space-saving, user-focused accessories make all the difference!

♻️ Eco-friendly products are trending in home building and design. There are several options for stylish and functional materials, from cabinets to countertops. For example, bamboo and other sustainable woods are now widely available for cabinetry and flooring. Recycled materials like glass and paper can be used for countertops and backsplashes. Low-VOC paints, and natural cleaning products are now readily available, making creating a healthier, more sustainable kitchen easier than ever.

🌳Ready to join the green home revolution? We can help you design a kitchen or bath that meets your function, style, and sustainability needs. Visit us at www.studioaandc.com to get in touch!

Welcome to your mud room. A place for all of day to day clutter - coats, bags, shoes, mail, and piles of odds and ends.

Creating a mud room or a cabinetry area near the main doorway in your home is a practical way to keep your entryway organized and prevent dirt and grime from spreading throughout your house. It's a designated space where you can store your outdoor gear and keep it out of the way until you're ready to head out again. If you already have a mud room, there are several simple upgrades, like cabinet organizers and accessories, that give you more space and order.

Not only does a mud room make your life easier, but it can also add some extra style to your home. With a little bit of creativity, you can transform your mud room into a stylish and functional space that you and your family will love.

Proof that cabinetry is not just meant for kitchens & baths! We LOVE to be creative! 😍

As we soak up the sunshine and gather with loved ones this Memorial Day weekend, let's take a moment to remember and honor the men and women who gave their lives for our country. Their courage and sacrifice are why we enjoy the freedoms we hold dear. 🇺🇸

We love the touch of natural elements in a kitchen or bath. Textures like unpainted wood, stone, and basket weave add depth and warmth to your space without being overbearing. Natural materials can be used in various ways - either as the focal point of your entire design or as accents throughout.

What do you think about the natural element trend? Drop your take in the comments.

With property nestled in the trees above the Thornapple River in Cascade, this homeowner wanted to bring more of the outside in. The original kitchen lacked natural light, had a large, oddly shaped island with an awkwardly placed sink, and the space was cramped and disconnected. The client has a deep love of nature and desired a kitchen where they could enjoy their view of the river, woods, and wildlife.

To open the space and add more light, we reoriented the kitchen, opening the room and letting more light in through the existing main window. This also allowed us to add another window over the new kitchen sink area. The final layout included a large, rectangular island, providing usable workspace and room for bar seating. The dining table was able to move to a more central area rather than being wedged in a corner. The natural light is enhanced by a lighter color palette with wood elements that tie the design aesthetic together. This kitchen renovation is a true testament to utilizing space more efficiently.

Swipe to see the before and afters!

View more > https://studioaandc.com/gallery/

The work triangle, wall space, and islands... oh my! 😳

When planning your kitchen renovation, it's important to consider how you'll use your kitchen daily.

Are you a chef extraordinaire who needs room for gourmet gadgets, or do you use your kitchen to store wine and takeout menus?

Knowing how you'll use your space will help guide your renovation decisions, from the layout and appliances to the storage and overall design. After all, you don't want to end up with a fancy kitchen too small for your massive family Thanksgiving feast or a spacious kitchen cluttered with appliances you'll never use. So take some time to think about how you'll really use your kitchen and plan accordingly. Your future self (and your stomach) will thank you!

For more kitchen layout ideas, check out this article from Homes & Gardens magazine ➡
https://www.homesandgardens.com/kitchens/kitchen-layout-mistakes

Are you ready to tackle a kitchen renovation or remodel?

Whether you're looking to upgrade your space or just itching for a change, embarking on a kitchen renovation can be both exciting and stressful. But fear not - we've got some tips to help you survive the process with your sanity intact! Here are a few things you can do to make your kitchen renovation or remodel less stressful and more enjoyable:

1. Plan ahead: Start by making a detailed plan for your renovation, including a timeline, budget, and a list of things you may want or need along the way.

2. Acknowledge the Mess: There's no way around it. A renovation is going to get messy and noisy. And it can get frustrating. Even the freest of spirits still love their coffee maker in its correct spot. It's time to channel your inner Elsa and Let it Go. This might be a great time to use that massage gift card you've been holding on to or even schedule a short trip away. Whatever you can do to relax - and know the chaos will be over soon.

3. Set up a temporary kitchen: While your kitchen is under construction, set up a temporary kitchen in another room of your home. This could include a mini-fridge, microwave, and a small countertop or table to use as a prep area. This way, you can still prepare meals and snacks without having to eat out every day.

4. Stay flexible: Despite your best efforts to plan ahead, unexpected issues or delays may arise during your renovation. Try to stay flexible, keep a positive attitude, and remember that the end result will be worth it.

5. Work with an experienced design team: We're here to help you every step of the way! We make sure the lines of communication stay open with our clients, and don't hesitate to ask us questions. Working with the right design team can make all the difference - especially a team that puts your needs first.

Check out more tips from Houzz magazine > https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-survive-a-kitchen-remodel-stsetivw-vs~113026919

How to Survive a Kitchen Remodel Washing mugs in the tub and getting hooked on Pop-Tarts. Here’s what to expect if you stay at home during construction

Should kitchen countertops be light or dark?

Light countertops make the space bright, offer a fresh look, and are versatile. But sometimes, they can be too bright, boring, and hard to clean.

Dark countertops are striking, warm up a kitchen, and are easier to maintain. Depending on the material, they can look dirty (hello, fingerprints!) and make a space feel small.

Homes and Gardens breaks down the pros and cons of both light and dark countertops and what you should consider when making a decision that works for your design aesthetic and lifestyle.

https://www.homesandgardens.com/kitchens/should-kitchen-countertops-be-light-or-dark

Should kitchen countertops be light or dark? Designers explain the pros and cons Not sure if your kitchen countertops should be light or dark? These are the benefits and downsides of each from the experts

What a week at the KBIS Show! We can't wait to provide West Michigan homeowners with the latest and greatest kitchen, bath, and cabinet space design options. 2023 is going to be a fantastic year of innovative and functional designs. Thanks, Las Vegas, for the unforgettable KBB experience.

Looking to renovate your space in 2023? Let's talk!
https://studioaandc.com/

The final touch on a Green Lake, Michigan home renovation was the master bathroom. The goal was to create a more functional and accessible space for a retired couple. They also wanted to brighten the bathroom and have the design aesthetic match the rest of their newly updated home.

Creating a better use of the space was most important. The outdated bathtub not only took up a considerable amount of usable space in the bathroom but getting into and out of the tub was a challenge. So, we chose a free-standing tub that was easier to use. We also expanded the shower, added a shower seat, removed the step into the shower, and added more vanity space, including storage. In addition to opening up the space, a lighter paint color and new light fixtures helped to brighten the room further.

When seeing their finished master bath, the client commented, "It looks so much bigger! But it's not any bigger!". Even with a larger shower, more vanity space and storage, and including a tub in the final design, the room feels bigger. We're so glad we were able to meet the client's needs for a more accessible space without compromising the features that were important to them.

View the complete gallery here > https://studioaandc.com/green-lake-master-bath/

✅Material
✅Drain location
✅Number of bowls
✅Finish
✅Price
✅Accessories

Did you know there were so many choices when it comes to your kitchen sink and faucet? The kitchen sink is likely the most used object in your kitchen, yet it can easily get overlooked. While functionality ranks supreme in what people want from their kitchen sink, the many color, materials, and faucet styles bring an added design element. And today's kitchen sinks are smarter than ever, with coordinating accessories like cutting boards, prep bowls, strainers, and more.

Check out this article from KBB magazine for a deeper dive into the current kitchen sink and faucet trends.

https://www.kbbonline.com/news/business/kbb-closeup-experts-weigh-in-on-kitchen-sinks-and-faucets/

KBB Closeup: Experts Weigh In on Kitchen Sinks and Faucets Although kitchen sinks and faucets may not be the big revenue generators in today’s projects, they are still an important aspect to consider.

Here in Michigan, we're into the darkest months of the year. And while the light is increasing daily, once the holidays' hustle, bustle, and glow pass, January and February days feel short and dark.

Introducing more natural light into your home maximizes our natural light, even on overcast or cloudy days. Wren Kitchens offers these suggestions:

✅ Use bright, light colors
✅ Use a glossy paint
✅ Choose reflective surfaces
✅ Polished floors
✅ Bright or colorful accessories
✅ Install glass panels or blocks

You can also use LED lighting with brighter color temperatures to mimic natural daylight. Smart LED lights even allow you to program lighting to change throughout the day and mirror how the sunlight changes throughout the day - from warm sunrises and sunsets to bright midday light.

Read the full article here > https://www.wrenkitchens.com/blog/how-to-increase-natural-light-in-your-kitchen

We'd love to help you brighten your kitchen or bathroom this year. Click here to start a conversation ➡️ https://studioaandc.com/contact/

Cheers to 2023!🥂

We're excited to celebrate our first full year of business as Studio A&C. Thank you to our clients, friends, and family for the ongoing support. We're grateful to do the work we love every day, and we wouldn't be here without you.

We look forward to a fantastic 2023 and beyond. Happy New Year!🎉

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 🎄🎅

The finishing touch. The final detail that completes or enhances a piece of work. We leave a custom-designed butcher block cutting board, thoughtfully made by Tara's husband, as our finishing touch for each client. It's our way of saying "thank you." And we hope it adds a final element of functionality to a kitchen they'll love for years to come.

Here's your sign that we're hard at work!

Check out these awesome new yard signs. If you see one, you'll know a neighbor is getting an amazing kitchen, bathroom, or mudroom renovation. They should probably invite you over soon to see it! 😜*wink wink*

Why is it that everyone gathers in the kitchen? It could be proximity to food and drinks. Or the comfortable, casual vibe. Whatever it is, if you're hosting for the holidays, or any time of year, there are design elements to consider for a host (and guest) friendly kitchen.

- A kitchen island with seating
- Easy-to-clean surfaces
- Versatile lighting
- Conveniences such as a wine fridge, bar sink, or double ovens

The most important thing to remember is that your kitchen is functional - especially if you're hosting while cooking. You want a layout that allows you to move efficiently throughout the kitchen but is still a comfortable place for guests to hang-out - out of the cook's way.

What features do you think make a kitchen perfect for hosting?

Wishing you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving! ❤🦃
- Paula and Tara

"There's a lot that goes into kitchen design. And one of the most important aspects is that your kitchen is functional. We've got that part covered. But to really bring your kitchen to life, you need to stock it with cooking tools.

And there's no better excuse for new kitchen gadgets than Thanksgiving. The team at Food Network put together this list of items to have on hand so you're prepared for anything Thanksgiving dinner throws your way (except when Great Aunt Marge has too much wine, there isn't a tool for that).

https://www.foodnetwork.com/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-how-tos/thanksgiving-dinner-tools

Happy Thanksgiving!

This Is Every Tool You Need to Make Thanksgiving Dinner Once you’ve checked off these items, you'll be prepared for anything Thanksgiving dinner throws your way. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.

As the saying goes, it's what's on the inside that really counts. That's certainly true when it comes to cabinet accessories. What a lovely surprise when you open a cupboard door and find a spice rack, a silverware tray, or a pots and pans holder. It makes us giddy with organizational delight!

Options for built-in cabinet organizers include:
- Dish drawers
- Cookware racks
- Vertical pan storage
- Drawer in drawer organizers
- Cutting board rack
- Roll-out drawers
- Spice racks
- Utensil bin base organizers
- Base cabinet organizers and fillers
- And more!

We can't promise a Tupperware lid will never go missing again. But we can ensure you that a few added organization accessories in your cabinets maximize your space and make for a more user-friendly kitchen.

View our Pinterest page for more cabinet accessories and organization ideas! https://www.pinterest.com/studioaandcdesign/

"Whether you're ready to renovate your existing kitchen or design your kitchen as part of a new build, there is a lot to think about, from setting a budget to layout and colors. But the most important is that your finished space reflects you and how you intend to use it.

Homes & Gardens magazine has a thorough guide to planning your perfect kitchen. With an emphasis on "you."

Check out the guide below or hit the link in our stories.
https://www.homesandgardens.com/advice/how-to-design-a-kitchen

Studio A&C considers your lifestyle and design aesthetic to create a beautifully functional result. Our personalized approach guides you through the process of the kitchen, bath, and cabinetry area design from start to finish. Together, we'll create a more welcoming and liveable space. Learn more > https://studioaandc.com/

A fresh paint job makes a big impact on your space.

1. It can change the entire mood of a room
2. It adds value to your home without a large investment
3. It protects your walls from wear and tear, can improve air quality, and protect your walls from moisture - especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms

Real Simple magazine summed up some simple (pun intended) paint ideas to easily makeover your space.

Want to explore more simple updates you could make to your kitchen, bathroom, or mud room areas - let's talk!

5 Stunning Paint Colors Spotted in the Real Simple Home From the dreamiest navy to a trendy shade of olive green, here are the hues we'll be borrowing.