When the townhouse was designed and built in the mid-1970s, it won awards using state-of-the-art for materials and technology. One of the features got lots of media attention: a custom skylight that slid back over the roof to expose the sky and act as a natural chimney on hot days. But new owners wanted to update it to fit their needs for a European contemporary environment.

PROBLEMS: The original Mexican paver tiles were dark, and the color scheme was earth tones, accentuated by rough-sawn cedar ceiling planks and cedar trusses that had aged to an ugly orange. The original fireplace didn’t function well.

CREATIVE SOLUTIONS: The color scheme was changed to a soft gray. The ceiling and beams were sanded and re-stained to blend with the gray tones. The homeowners chose limestone tiles for the floors. A new fireplace was installed, with a custom gray and yellow marble surround, mantel, and hearth. New dimmable lighting was installed to enhance the remodeled living room and dining room.

TESTIMONIAL: Diane and I spent two weeks shopping for all of the products for our new home before I went back to Germany. She made it possible to work with my husband and me over long distance. Her communication skills and attention to all of the details helped us achieve the unique transformation we wanted in every room of our new home. She worked with the contractor to make everything ready for us, with no problems.