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The modern design era has redefined how we think about space, aesthetics, and functionality. From clean lines to open layouts, the principles of modern design emphasize simplicity and practicality, making it a timeless choice for homes and workspaces alike. If you're considering a modern look for your next project, here are some key elements and inspirations from the modern design era to guide you: 

Minimalism

At the heart of the modern design era is minimalism. This approach focuses on stripping away unnecessary details to create clean, clutter-free spaces. The idea is to make every item functional, allowing each piece to serve a purpose. Open shelving, streamlined furniture, and built-in storage are all great ways to bring minimalism into your space. Minimalist design also encourages fewer decorative pieces, making the most of natural light and open layouts. 

Natural Materials

Modern design emphasizes using natural materials like wood, stone, and glass to bring warmth and texture to interiors. These elements add an organic feel that balances the clean lines of modern aesthetics. Materials like polished concrete, walnut wood, and brushed metal are especially popular in modern spaces, contributing to a seamless blend of industrial and natural vibes. Try incorporating a stone accent wall or wooden furniture to add that authentic, grounded feel. 

Neutral Color Palettes

Neutral tones like white, gray, beige, and black are foundational in modern design. These colors create a calm and sophisticated atmosphere, serving as the perfect backdrop for art and accent pieces. A neutral palette can make a space feel open and airy, while also allowing pops of color to stand out. If you want to add a touch of personality, consider introducing small accents in bold colors like deep blue or olive green, but keep it balanced to maintain the modern aesthetic. 

Open Floor Plans

The modern design era celebrates open floor plans that allow for flexible, multifunctional spaces. Removing unnecessary walls creates a seamless flow between living, dining, and kitchen areas, which is ideal for both everyday life and entertaining. Open layouts also maximize natural light, making spaces feel larger and more inviting. Consider integrating a central island in your kitchen that transitions smoothly into the dining or living room for a more cohesive space. 

Geometric Shapes and Clean Lines

Geometric shapes and defined lines are defining elements of modern design. From square-edged furniture to angular light fixtures, these shapes create a visually striking effect without overwhelming the space. Think about adding statement pieces like a geometric rug, sleek pendant lighting, or furniture with clean, angular lines to give your space that unmistakable modern edge. 

The modern design era offers a beautiful blend of simplicity, functionality, and elegance. By incorporating these key elements—minimalism, natural materials, neutral colors, open layouts, and geometric shapes—you can create a timeless space that feels both stylish and practical. 

Interested in a remodel in the Northern Virginia area?  Reach out to MOSS Building & Design today to inquire!   

The homeowners worked closely with our consultants to create a scope of work and budget for an extensive remodel of their kitchen, master bathroom, laundry room, and loft space, turning these key areas into spaces that embody both luxury and practicality. 

Vision 

The homeowners wanted a home that would better reflect their lifestyle and provide improved functionality. They desired a more open kitchen for entertaining, a master bathroom that felt like a private spa, and upgraded laundry and loft spaces that would enhance daily living. We collaborated closely to bring these ideas to life, balancing aesthetics with usability. 

Scope  

Our team undertook an ambitious scope that involved installing new cabinetry, countertops, a spacious island, and updated lighting to create a warm, open space ideal for both cooking and hosting. 

In addition, we added high-end finishes, including a soaking tub, a walk-in shower with ceramic tile, dual sinks, and custom cabinetry. 

In the laundry and loft, we upgraded the laundry room with cabinetry, countertops, and efficient storage solutions; in the loft, we installed new carpet and modern lighting. 

Each area received thoughtful upgrades designed to enhance the look and feel of the home while also meeting the client’s practical needs. 

Budget 

Our team helped the homeowners determine a final overall investment and facilitated the financing of the project.  They also determine the final scope for the work to provide the largest impact on living space.   

Timeline 

With our project plan in place, we were able to transform the home within an efficient timeline. By coordinating design, engineering, and construction stages closely, we ensured that work was completed smoothly. Our team worked with precision to stay on schedule, while allowing time to address any necessary adjustments along the way. 

The Master Plan 

Achieving a seamless remodel required a comprehensive approach. Our master plan included the following key elements: 

Engineering and Structural Support: To open up the kitchen layout, we removed a load-bearing wall between the kitchen and dining room and installed flush beams for structural integrity. We also reinforced basement beams and added new posts as needed. 

Architectural and Design Services: Our architects developed a tailored plan that maximized space in the kitchen, bath, and laundry areas, optimizing layouts and ensuring a cohesive design across each room. 

Customized Finishes and Details: We worked closely with the homeowners on material selection, incorporating their style preferences to ensure that every detail—from cabinet finishes to tile and lighting—aligned with their vision. 

Kitchen 

The kitchen now serves as the vibrant heart of the home, with a layout designed for cooking and gathering: 

Cabinetry and Island: New wall and base cabinets, along with a spacious island, add ample storage and preparation space. 

Enhanced Lighting and Appliances: Recessed and under-cabinet lighting, along with modern appliances, create a functional yet inviting space. The addition of a custom backsplash adds personality and style. 

Open Layout with Structural Support: A flush beam was installed to open the flow between the kitchen and dining room, creating a seamless, expansive feel. 

Master Bathroom 

The redesigned master bathroom offers a spa-like experience, with high-end features for relaxation and convenience: 

Luxurious Shower and Soaking Tub: The bathroom now includes a Wedi system shower with ceramic tile, dual shower heads, and a freestanding soaking tub. 

Double Vanity and Storage: With dual sinks and custom cabinetry, the vanity area provides both style and functionality. 

Sophisticated Finishes: From the semi-frameless shower enclosure to ceramic tile floors and marble thresholds, each finish was chosen to enhance the bathroom’s elegance. 

Laundry Room and Loft 

The remodel also brought significant improvements to the home’s laundry room and loft: 

Laundry Room Efficiency: New cabinetry, countertops, and a prep sink make this space both stylish and practical, providing ample storage and work space. 

Cozy Loft with Updated Flooring and Lighting: New carpeting and modern lighting in the loft create a welcoming environment, perfect for relaxation or work. 

Complexity 

This remodel was completed during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, which caused significant challenges with social distancing, access to materials, and keeping an accelerated timeline. 

Interested in a basement remodel in the Northern Virginia area?  Reach out to MOSS Building & Design today to inquire!  

Choosing the right colors can transform a basement from a dark, underutilized area into a vibrant, welcoming extension of your home. The 2024 color trends bring in fresh shades that can brighten and elevate your basement, whether you’re looking for a cozy retreat or a modern hangout spot. Here are the top basement colors for 2024 to inspire your next remodel:

1. Warm Neutrals

Warm neutrals like taupe, beige, and creamy whites are making a comeback in 2024. These shades provide a soft, inviting feel that’s perfect for basements. Warm neutrals also reflect light, which helps brighten up a space that might not have much natural lighting. Pair these colors with natural wood accents or metallic finishes to create a relaxed, comfortable environment.

2. Dusty Blues

Dusty blue shades, with their calming effect, are ideal for basements used as relaxation spaces or home theaters. This muted color brings a sense of tranquility and pairs well with neutrals like gray or white for a cohesive look. Consider using dusty blue on an accent wall or in a home office setup to enhance focus and create a serene atmosphere.

3. Deep Greens

A deep, rich green adds a touch of luxury and depth to your basement. This color is perfect for creating a cozy vibe and works well with modern and rustic decor alike. Paired with dark woods or leather furniture, deep green creates a sophisticated look. It's ideal for basements that serve as bar areas, lounges, or dens, giving the space an inviting, upscale feel.

4. Soft Pastels

Soft pastel shades, like light lavender, mint green, and blush pink, are trending for 2024. These colors add subtle personality without overwhelming the space. Soft pastels work wonderfully in family-friendly basements, playrooms, or guest suites, creating an airy and uplifting ambiance. You can pair them with white trim or light gray accents to keep the look fresh and balanced.

5. Charcoal Gray

For those wanting a bolder, modern look, charcoal gray offers a sophisticated, edgy vibe. This color works beautifully as an accent wall or even a full-room color in a well-lit basement. Charcoal gray pairs well with lighter neutrals or wood accents, creating a striking contrast. This shade is ideal for basements that serve as entertainment zones, creating a sleek and modern feel.

Choosing the right colors can completely transform your basement, making it a space that feels as warm and inviting as the rest of your home. From calming blues to luxurious greens, these 2024 color trends bring life and personality to any basement design.

The homeowners worked closely with our consultants to create a scope of work and budget for a fully remodeled kitchen and laundry room.  There were clear allowances within the contract so our customers knew exactly the range of budget that was included and could be worked within. 

Vision 

The homeowners wanted to completely renovate their existing kitchen, as well as their existing laundry room to modernize the kitchen (including appliances, cabinetry, and flooring) and to make the laundry room more accessible and functional. 

Scope 

The entire kitchen had to be demolished, including removing framing, cabinetry, lighting, and flooring.  All cabinets and trim within the laundry room were also disposed.  Framing for the new kitchen was installed.  Plumbing and gas lines were run, as well as electrical lights for appliances and lighting.  The new kitchen had insulation and drywall hung, and then the interior trim was added.  All new cabinetry and countertops were installed, and lastly the entire new area was painted and hardwood flooring was installed. 

Budget 

Our team helped the homeowners determine a final overall investment and facilitated the financing of the project.  They also determine the final scope for the work to provide the largest impact on living space.   

Timeline 

This was a relatively quick job, with the entire process taking about a month.  The pre-construction meeting started in April of 2020, and the remodel was finished by the end of May, 2020. 

Master Plan 

We took the time to understand the exact needs of the homeowner.  Their big picture plan was a complete remodel of their kitchen and laundry room. 

Kitchen 

The entire kitchen was demolished, including framing walls, drywall, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and lights.  After demolition, the walls were framed for the new dimensions of the kitchen.  Rough-in plumbing was added for the kitchen sink, faucet, hot water dispenser, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and refrigerator.  Circuitry for all electrical outlets was installed, as well as for multiple lights, including 12 LED recessed lights and LED under cabinet lights. 

Next, insulation and drywall were hung in the kitchen.  Interior trim, including around windows and doors, was added, and cabinets and granite countertops were installed as well.  Lastly, the new kitchen was painted, and Oak hardwood flooring was installed throughout. 

Laundry Room 

In the laundry room, all cabinets, flooring, and trim were disposed of.  New cabinets and trim were added, and finally luxury vinyl tile was installed. 

Complexity 

Even though this was a relatively small scope of work, the project was completed during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic which caused significant changes to communication strategy. 

Are you looking to transform your basement into a functional and stylish living space? Basement remodeling offers endless possibilities for enhancing both the value and comfort of your home. Whether you need additional living areas or want to create the ultimate entertainment hub, MOSS Building & Design is here for all your basement remodeling needs.  Here are some basement remodeling ideas to inspire you: 

Home Theater 

Imagine transforming your basement into a state-of-the-art movie theater. With plush, reclining seats, surround sound, and a high-definition projector, your family can enjoy the cinema experience from the comfort of home. Install blackout curtains or use a dark paint scheme to create that theater-like ambiance. Add a snack station or mini-fridge to keep movie treats handy, and don’t forget to include acoustic treatments for sound quality. This is a perfect option for movie buffs or families who love hosting movie nights. 

Guest Suite 

A basement guest suite provides the perfect mix of comfort and privacy for visitors. You can transform a portion of your basement into a fully functional living space, complete with a bedroom, a full bathroom, and even a kitchenette. This not only gives your guests their own space but also adds a touch of luxury. Consider adding storage options like a wardrobe or built-in shelves to ensure your guests have everything they need. A guest suite can also serve as a future in-law suite or even a rental unit, making it a flexible remodeling option. 

Home Office 

With more people working from home, converting a basement into a quiet, professional space is a smart move. A basement office gives you the seclusion needed to focus without distractions. Install proper lighting—both natural and artificial—since basements tend to lack windows. Soundproofing can ensure calls and meetings aren’t interrupted by household noise. Personalize the space with modern ergonomic furniture, shelves for books, and a dedicated area for computer equipment. With the right setup, you can create a workspace that enhances productivity and comfort. 

Playroom 

Parents know the struggle of keeping toys and games organized. A basement playroom is a great solution, providing a dedicated space where kids can let their imaginations run wild. You can design the room with durable flooring, such as carpet or rubber mats, for safety. Bright, playful colors on the walls and storage cubbies or shelves for easy organization will make it both functional and fun. Add a craft station, reading nook, or small climbing structure to keep kids engaged and active. It’s a great way to keep the main living areas clutter-free. 

Bar & Entertainment Area 

A basement bar is the ultimate spot for social gatherings, whether it’s family game night or hosting friends for a party. Custom cabinetry, a wine fridge, and stylish bar stools can create an elegant but functional space. Add a flat-screen TV and cozy seating for watching sports or movies, and even consider a pool table or foosball for extra entertainment. With the right design, your basement can become the go-to spot for all your social events, providing a laid-back, fun atmosphere for guests. 

Basement remodeling is a great way to add extra square footage and create a personalized space that fits your needs. Whether your style is modern, rustic, or something in between, there’s a perfect remodeling idea for you!  Interested in a basement remodel in the Northern Virginia area?  Reach out to MOSS Building & Design today to inquire! 

The homeowners worked closely with our consultants to create a scope of work and budget for a first-floor renovation and second-story addition, which included a new master suite, multiple spare bedrooms, and a laundry room.   There were clear allowances within the contract so our customers knew exactly the range of budget that was included and could be worked within. 

Vision 

The homeowners wanted to remodel their kitchen on the first floor, as well as create an entire second-story addition that created much more living space, including a new master suite, as well as three additional bedrooms for their children.  In addition, two additional bathrooms were needed, and the laundry room was relocated to the upstairs addition. 

Scope 

Significant demolition was needed in order to renovate the first floor and add a second-story addition.  The entire kitchen was removed, including framing, doors, flooring, lighting, and appliances.  After demolition was complete, significant framing and other structural work was needed.  Walls, door frames, flooring, and the roof were all framed, and the exterior needed windows, doors, and siding.  Two new HVAC systems were also installed. 

On the inside, water and gas lines were run where applicable, and all the electrical wires were installed as well.  Next, the new and renovated areas were insulated, and drywall was hung.  Interior trim, doors, and shelving were added where appropriate, and new appliances were installed in the kitchen and in each of the bathrooms.  Lastly, new flooring was laid where requested, and the entire house was painted. 

Budget 

Our team helped the homeowners determine a final overall investment and facilitated the financing of the project.  They also determine the final scope for the work to provide the largest impact on living space.   

Timeline 

Pre-construction started in September of 2020, right during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.  This part of the process only took a month, as excavation started in October.  By the end of the year, the structural and framing process was finished.  The interior work began in early 2021, and the project was completed at the end of May, 2021, with a turn-around time of about eight months. 

Master Plan 

We took the time to understand the exact needs of the homeowner.  Their big picture plan was a kitchen renovation and a second-story addition that included a new master suite, three additional children's bedrooms, and a relocation of the laundry room. 

Kitchen 

The existing kitchen had to be completely demolished, including framing and walls, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring.  Next, the new dimensions of the kitchen were framed, and exterior windows were added where necessary.  A door to a proposed future deck was also installed. 

Next, all utility lines were run.  In the kitchen, rough-in plumbing was added for hot and/or cold water lines for the sink, faucet, dishwasher, and refrigerator.  Electrical wires were also run, including for the garbage disposal and for multiple types of lights. 

After all the utility lines were installed, insulation and drywall were hung in the new kitchen.  Multiple internal doors were installed, and trim was added.  Next, the kitchen cabinet structures were installed, along with new countertops and appliances, which included a sink, faucet, and garbage disposal, dishwasher, oven, and refrigerator.  Lastly, the entire kitchen was painted and red oak hardwood floor was installed. 

Master Suite 

Since the master suite was a brand-new addition, the old roof had to be demolished to create room for the addition.  After demolition, the entire second-story addition was framed.  Exterior windows were added to allow plenty of natural light to enter into the suite.  Water lines were run in the master bathroom, including rough-in plumbing for multiple sinks, faucets, a shower, tub, and toilet.  Next, electrical lines were installed for vanity lights throughout the master suite.   

The next step was installing insulation and drywall.  Interior doors were added where necessary, and shelving was added in the walk-in closet.  Trim was also added throughout the new addition.  In the master bathroom, all appliances and features were installed, including a Wedi shower system, vanity cabinets, countertops, two sinks, a toilet, a mirror, and a glass shower enclosure.  Lastly, the entire suite was painted, and flooring was added (tile in the bathroom and carpet throughout the rest of the suite). 

Additional Bedrooms 

Three additional bedrooms were also included in the second-story addition.  After the necessary demolition, the bedrooms were framed.  Exterior windows were installed, and electrical lines were run throughout each bedroom.  Next, all three bedrooms had insulation and drywall installed, and interior doors and trim were added.  Lastly, the bedrooms were painted, and carpet was installed. 

Complexity 

There were multiple complexities associated with this project.  First, this project was completed during the Covid-19 pandemic which caused multiple complications.  Next, some structural work was needed for the house in general, and lastly the homeowners had already hired an architect, which added another voice to the project. 

Interested in an addition in Arlington?  Reach out to MOSS Building & Design today to inquire!

The homeowners worked closely with our consultants to create a scope of work and budget for a “pop top” addition above the garage, that included an entire new master suite and covered deck area.  There were clear allowances within the contract so our customers knew exactly the range of budget that was included and could be worked within. 

Vision 

The homeowners wanted to create an additional master suite on top of their existing garage.  This addition included a master bedroom, master bathroom, and walk-in closet, as well as a covered deck area in the backyard. 

Scope 

The project first required demolition of the roof and drywall ceiling above the garage.  Next, the entire new addition area was framed, and roofing, gutters, and downspouts were added.  Windows and a new garage door were installed, and exterior finish and trim, including vinyl siding, shutters, soffit, and fascia were added.  A new HVAC system was installed and then attention was turned to interior work. 

Water supply lines were run for the new bathroom, as well as rough-in plumbing.  All electrical wires were run, including lighting, AV cables, and new smoke detectors.  The entire new addition had insulation and drywall installed, and interior trim, doors, and shelving were added where appropriate.  All the bathroom appliances were installed, and then the entire master suite was painted.  Lastly, flooring was added in the master suite. 

Budget 

Our team helped the homeowners determine a final overall investment and facilitated the financing of the project.  They also determine the final scope for the work to provide the largest impact on living space.   

Timeline 

Pre-project planning commenced in late July of 2019.  Everything was finalized for construction to begin at the beginning of 2020.  Construction started shortly thereafter in January of 2020, and final walkthrough occurred in late March of 2020.   

Master Plan 

We took the time to understand the exact needs of the homeowner.  Their big picture plan was a “pop top” addition above the garage, that included a new master suite, as well as a new roof for the back covered deck. 

Master Bedroom 

The new master bedroom was framed and insulated, and drywall was hung and primed for painting.  Interior doors were added where necessary, including the entrance to the master bedroom, to the closet, and to the master bathroom.  Trim was added to the doors, windows, and base of the bedroom.  Shelving was installed in the closet.  Lastly, the walls were painted and padding and carpet were laid down for the flooring. 

Master Bathroom 

The new master bathroom was also framed and insulated, and drywall was hung and primed for painting.  The door to the bathroom was installed, and trim was added throughout the area.  A Wedi shower system was installed, which included one shower faucet and one shower head.  Vanity cabinets, two countertops, and two undermount sinks and sink faucets were installed.  A toilet and two mirrors were installed, and lastly, ceramic tile flooring and trim were installed throughout. 

Covered Deck 

While part of the covered deck was already in place, the homeowners added an addendum to the contract for a new roof structure in the backyard (among other minor additions).  This process included building new pier structures for the back deck and removing and replacing the existing pavers.  The new structure was framed with posts and beams, and vinyl siding and decorative gable trim were installed.   

Complexity 

There were multiple complexities for this project.  First, an addendum to the contract added additional work that needed to be completed, including working around the existing back porch structure.  In addition, this project was completed during the uncertainty of the global Covid-19 pandemic, which complicated facilitating the last few weeks of construction. 

Interested in an addition to your Herndon home?  Contact MOSS Building & Design today!

Flooring is an integral part of any home remodeling project.  It is part of the bones of the house; an area that is constantly walked on and a place where furniture and other household items will sit for many years.  For this reason, it is extremely important to select the best flooring options for your Northern Virginia home.  The area of the house will depend on what type of flooring is best – some areas are best suited for hardwood, others are best suited for carpet, and epoxy is an option for certain areas as well.  Below are the best flooring options for those types of materials. 

Hardwood  

Hardwood is a sought-after luxury in many homes.  It is sophisticated, yet it also serves a very tangible function – it is much easier to clean than carpet.  Let’s be honest – children, pets, houseguests – they all make messes over time, and when a spill happens, hardwood is a surface that can easily be wiped clean.  The most common areas of the home where hardwood makes sense are the living areas, hallways, and steps.  Below are some of the best types of hardwood: 

• Bamboo – sturdy and eco-friendly 

• Cypress – unique and strong 

• Birch – versatile and affordable 

• Mahogany – exotic and luxurious 

The type of hardwood depends on many factors, including price per square inch, color, and availability.  Your dedicated MOSS team will be happy to walk through all the options for your hardwood flooring. 

Carpet 

Carpet may not be as desirable as some of the other flooring options, but it is extremely functional and serves a variety of purposes.  First, carpet is a soft surface that is more comfortable to walk on in bare feet.  It also has better temperature control, so it will not heat up or cool down depending on the weather outside like some flooring material will. In addition, it is relatively inexpensive and is a more affordable option to cover homes with a larger surface area.  Lastly, carpet is readily available and easy to acquire, meaning that there will be no logistical issues that might push back your remodel project timeline. 

Epoxy 

Epoxy is another great flooring option, especially for harder surface areas such as garages or unfinished basements.  Epoxy technically isn’t a standalone flooring – rather, it is a type of synthetic resin that is laid on top of concrete to create a protective film.  It can also be used to “spruce up” the look of the concrete floor.  Garages and unfinished basements aren’t exactly luxurious areas, but with an epoxy floor, those areas are more functional and more aesthetically pleasing. 

Interested in new flooring in your Northern Virginia home?  Reach out to Moss Building and Design today to inquire! 

Home accessibility is becoming more of a consideration during home renovations in Loudoun County.  Many of our Loudoun County clients want to be able to age in place in their current residence, so including accessibility considerations in renovation discussions is something MOSS is prepared to do.  At MOSS, we believe every homeowner deserves to love their house, and we want to ensure that clients who may need accessibility upgrades can continue to love their house as they age.  Below are three ways to make your home more accessible in Loudoun County. 

Outdoor Ramps 

Stairs can be a challenge for small children, older people, and anyone in between.  Falls on stairs are common and can result in significant injury.  Building an outdoor ramp on the porch can help to mitigate issues with concrete steps going up to the front door.  While ramps on the front porch are common, ramps can always be placed in the garage or on a back deck.  All stairs have the potential to be dangerous, but outdoor stairs are made from concrete or wood and cannot be cushioned with carpet.  By installing ramps, the chances of a devastating fall outside are minimalized. 

Shower Benches 

Another amazing way to make the house more accessible is to add a shower bench into the master bath.  Stairs aren’t the only place where falls are common.  Showers are another area where falls are common and can result in significant injury.  With a shower bench, our older clients will be able to shower/bath in comfort without worrying about trying to balance in a slippery shower. 

Shower benches aren’t necessarily just for our older clients!  Shower benches can offer more benefits than just minimizing the potential for falls in the shower.  They can be combined with a massaging showerhead to create a hydromassage experience.  They are also aesthetically pleasing and raise the value of the house.  Anyone can benefit from a shower bench being installed in the bathroom. 

Smart Appliances 

Last but certainly not least, installing as many smart appliances as possible will help make the home much more accessible.  Instead of having to constantly get up and turn lights on and off, start and stop the oven, or go to your outlet of choice to turn music on and off, smart appliances can utilize your voice to do all of that.  Imagine being able to sit in a recliner, and instead of getting up to do various tedious activities, you could preheat the oven, turn on your favorite music, and brighten the lights without ever having to get up.  With MOSS-installed smart appliances, that dream can become a reality. 

Accessibility is not about being lazy.  It is about making your home more comfortable to live in as you gracefully age with it.  Implementing the above renovations will make your life safer and more enjoyable, so you can enjoy your Golden Years in the comfort of your beloved home. 

Interested in making your home more accessible in the Loudoun County area?  Reach out to MOSS Building & Design today to inquire!