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The richly tactile material palette is one of the homeowners’ favorite elements. “Our home is filled with beautiful tile, soft textured fabrics, chrome fixtures, and the main volumes are wrapped—floor, wall and ceiling—in waxed white oak,” says client, Matt.

The bathroom is finished in simple stucco with bent copper plumbing fixtures and oversized terrazzo tile. Niches in the wall accommodate bathing supplies and provide a convenient foothold for leg-shaving.

Choose meaningful embellishments. “Homeowners tend to focus predominantly on the utilitarian components of their kitchen remodels and place less emphasis on decorative elements such as tile, open shelves, visual art pieces,” says Nicole Tysvaer of Galaxy Homes. “The kitchen is the heart of our homes and the most occupied space. I encourage all of our clients to consider meaningful embellishments that add beauty and a personalized touch to their kitchen remodel, such as a display of heirloom teacups, framed photography from family vacations, or decorative wall art.”

Once you figure out the "lead element" in your kitchen's design, Hodges says it's easier to choose a backsplash. For instance, if you want the cabinetry to stand out, then choose a backsplash that will highlight it.

In the bathroom, they kept it simple: the shower was lined with plaster that also wraps around the tub. ”It was really key to get out of the way and let the architecture speak,” says Carine. The area where you step down under the showerhead can also be filled up to act as a tub.

From lighting to plumbing, here’s what you should know before you start your next update.