After purchasing an outmoded, circa-1980s home in Ashburn, Virginia, the owners hired Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes for a remodel. They envisioned more upscale interiors with increased functionality and a clean, modern sensibility. “Almost every inch of the house was transformed in one way or another,” recalls principal Sonny Nazemian. The project overhauled the kitchen, razed walls to create better flow and installed high-end finishes throughout.

The previous kitchen was cramped, dark and dated. The design team replaced a walk-in pantry with cabinetry, freeing up space for a center island. Removing a wall between the kitchen and adjacent sunroom brought in natural light, and windows were added that flank the hood; a slab of black quartz turned the range wall into a focal point. The mudroom/laundry room was revamped to encompass a butler’s pantry. 

A marble floor makes a statement in the double-height foyer, where two facing staircases now boast wrought-iron railings; wide-plank, dark-stained maple floors clad the rest of the main level. Other improvements include a linear fireplace in the family room with a two-story surround made of polished porcelain tile; widened casements between the foyer and dining room, where a decorative ceiling was added; and coffered ceilings supporting large-scale chandeliers. 

Award: Finalist for Residential Interior $250,000 to $500,000. Renovation Design & Contracting: Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, Fairfax, Virginia.