5 Simple Design Elements That Instantly Elevate Any Space

Designing a beautiful space doesn’t always require a major investment in luxury items. Sometimes subtle details can make all the difference. These five elements are some of the ELM Designers’ favorite ways to elevate a design. 

1. Decorative Backsplash Cutout

A backsplash does more than protect your walls—it’s a prime opportunity to infuse character into your kitchen or bathroom. A decorative cutout behind the range or sink adds a tailored moment of detail that sets the tone for the entire space. 

2. Wall Lighting

Swapping overhead lights for thoughtfully placed wall sconces or picture lights can completely change the mood of a space. Wall lighting not only creates soft, ambient glow, but also acts as a design feature in its own right. From flanking a vanity mirror to accenting open shelving, layered lighting brings warmth, depth, and function into every corner.

3. Decorative Toe Kick

This often-overlooked feature adds charm and furniture-like detail to cabinetry. A toe kick valance—especially in a kitchen or primary bath—softens the base of built-ins and gives the whole room a more custom, elevated feel. It’s a simple add-on that brings just the right amount of sophistication

4. Paneled Appliances

For a kitchen that feels cohesive and clean, paneled appliances are a go-to. Covering your refrigerator or dishwasher with cabinet panels allows the entire space to flow seamlessly, without the visual interruption of stainless steel. It’s a small detail, but it instantly signals a higher level of design intention—and keeps the cabinetry as the star of the show.

5. Wallpaper

Wallpaper is the perfect way to instantly add personality to a space! Fun, bright patterns create a statement, while subtle, muted patterns create texture and depth. Even when used in small areas like a powder bath or behind shelving, it creates a thoughtful focal point that personalizes your home.

The Difference Is In the Details

By incorporating custom touches like a backsplash cutout or toe kick valance, and focusing on lighting, paneling, and pattern, your space can feel timeless, layered, and truly elevated. It's the thoughtful details that turn a house into a home.

Outdoor Living: Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Oasis

Outdoor Living spaces are often an extension of the home and central place for gathering with friends and family. Here, we’re breaking down the most important things to consider when planning for your outdoor oasis.

How will you use the space?

The first step to creating your dream outdoor area is thinking about how you want to use it. Is it a place to gather around the TV for a big game? Is it a quiet space to drink coffee and read in the morning? Or will it be a chef’s dream kitchen for grilling out and hosting? Once you define your goals you can start designing with purpose. This will help guide space planning, electrical needs, and finish selections.

Keeping things comfortable

One of the most important aspects of a well-designed outdoor living space—especially in the South—is comfort. While the beauty of the space matters, it won’t get much use if it isn’t enjoyable year-round. Ceiling fans are a must-have- not only for cooling off the space- but also for keeping bugs at bay. On the flip side, heaters are perfect for chilly football season weather and holiday gatherings. Screens also provide another layer of comfort and a barrier against insects. With a screened in porch, these doors can be fully opened on spring or fall day, allowing fresh air inside. Accordion doors blur the lines between indoor and outdoor, creating more square footage for hosting.

Design Elements

Once your vision and the practical features—like layout, structure, and climate considerations—are in place, the fun really begins. This is where your outdoor living space takes on personality and style through thoughtful design selections and finishing touches. Natural stone, brick, or pavers can bring warmth and texture to patios, pathways, and fireplaces. These elements not only add beauty but also withstand the elements for years to come. When it comes to wood accents, think about the visual impact of stained vs painted. One creates an earthy, natural feel, while painted creates a more tailored look. Lighting also plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere of your outdoor space once the sun goes down. Lanterns, sconces, and string lights add a warm, ambient glow that sets the tone for evening relaxation or entertaining.

With a little planning and the right mix of comfort and style, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and easy to enjoy all year long. Ready to bring your backyard vision to life? Our team can help you design a space that checks every box. Let’s get started!

Design Tips for a Timeless Home Interior

Trends come and go, but great design stands the test of time. A timeless home isn’t about following every new style—it’s about choosing elements that feel classic, enduring, and personal. Whether you’re building from the ground up or updating a few key spaces, these design tips will help you create interiors that age gracefully and feel just as beautiful years from now as they do today.

Mix Textures for Depth and Contrast

One of the easiest ways to bring depth and personality into a space is by mixing textures. Instead of using painted cabinets throughout an entire kitchen, consider adding interest with decorative glass doors, a stained island, or reeded drawer fronts. These small changes create a space that feels layered, intentional, and thoughtfully designed.

Natural Elements Transcend Trends

There’s something timeless about natural materials—they bring authenticity, warmth, and character to a home. Think stone tile, natural-finish white oak, marble fireplaces, and polished nickel or aged brass finishes. These materials have been used for centuries and create charm that never goes out of style.

Layered Lighting

Lighting has the power to completely transform a room. Of course, nothing beats natural light, so we always aim to maximize windows whenever possible. But layering in overhead recessed lights, sconces, pendants, and lamps allows for flexibility depending on the task, time of day, or mood. One often-overlooked detail? The color of your bulbs. We always recommend "Soft White"—it strikes the perfect balance between cool and warm tones.

Invest in Quality

When it comes to fixtures and finishes, quality really does matter. While it might be tempting to go with the budget-friendly option, the difference often lies beneath the surface. For example, a faucet from a big-box store may look similar to one from a plumbing supplier, but it’s often made with plastic internal parts instead of brass or stainless steel. Higher-quality materials mean better performance, longer lifespan, and less waste over time.

Blend Old and New

Homes tell stories, and the best way it does that is by combining new finds with older, personal pieces. Whether it’s adding new built-ins around a family heirloom piece, repurposing a tree that had to be cut down in order to build the home, or installing handmade, vintage tile at a bar, these special elements help the space feel collected and anything but ordinary. 

From Concept to Completion: The Design-Build Advantage

Whether you're planning a full-home renovation, building your dream house from the ground up, or refreshing a dated kitchen, one of the first decisions you'll face is how to approach the process. Traditionally, construction projects have involved hiring an architect or designer first, followed by a contractor. But there's a better way: the design-build method.

At its core, design-build brings the entire project—design, estimating, and construction—under one roof. This streamlined approach not only reduces stress but also leads to more efficient timelines, clearer communication, and a final product that feels cohesive and intentional from every angle.

What Is Design-Build?

The design-build model is a collaborative approach where one team handles both the creative and construction sides of a project. Rather than juggling multiple companies, clients work with a single, unified team that includes designers, estimators, and project managers all working together from day one.

This integration allows for seamless communication and thoughtful decision-making throughout the project. Every step—conceptual design, budgeting, scheduling, material selection, and construction—is managed by the same group of professionals, all aligned around the same vision and with the same goals.

Simplifying the Process

One of the biggest challenges in traditional construction is coordination between multiple parties. Miscommunications, delays, and unexpected costs can quickly derail even the best-laid plans. With design-build, that risk is significantly reduced.

Because everyone is on the same team, the process becomes smoother and more predictable:

• One point of contact: Clients don’t have to act as the “middle-man” for designers and builders.

• Clear timelines and budgets: Design decisions are made with construction realities in mind, keeping things on track and on budget from the start.

• Fewer surprises: Collaboration from the onset means fewer change orders- AKA- fewer unexpected costs for you- the client!

Why In-House Design Makes a Difference

One of the key advantages of working with us is our team of three in-house designers, who specialize in every aspect of the design from space planning, construction documents, estimating selections, cabinet layout, to picking paint colors. Our designers are able to easily communicate with other members of our team during the project development and construction phases, carefully considering each detail of the project and how it will impact the overall scope.

A Better Experience for Homeowners

Renovations are deeply personal- and at times, emotional. For homeowners, the design-build process often feels less overwhelming. The ELM team is here to help guide you through the process to deliver beautiful and high-quality results tailored to your specific wants and needs. 

Are you ready to get started? Contact us today, and let’s bring your vision to life!

Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2025 Recap!

Each year, the Annual National Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) provides a glimpse into the future of home design with upcoming products and rising trends. Our Lead Designer, Liz Kennedy, attended KBIS last month and noted that her takeaways were all about texture, color, and customization. 

Texture and Color Take Center Stage

Across lighting, plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, and hardware, texture and color are the dominant themes. Think fluted glass shades, knurled appliance pulls, two-tone faucets, and textured cabinets. Quartz countertops are increasingly becoming one of the top choices for countertops, with more color options, natural veining, and textures becoming readily available and cost-effective.

• Lighting Embraces Variety: Milk glass and unique shapes define the latest lighting trends, adding depth and visual interest to spaces. This makes lighting serve both function and as an artistic element.

• Plumbing Gets Functional and Stylish: Filtered pull-down kitchen faucets are becoming more available, eliminating the need for separate beverage faucets. Diverse finishes, concrete elements, dual finishes, and pull-down options, along with unique tub feet, offer endless customization.

• Appliances Opt for White and Biophilia: White appliances were once the top finish choice before becoming outweighed by stainless steel; however, they are making their way back and better than ever! Biophilia (bringing nature indoors) is also making its way into the kitchen. Textured pulls add a tactile element, and interchangeable pull finishes allow for an easy way to elevate your kitchen!

• Cabinetry Focuses on Customization and Storage: Custom hoods, natural textures, smart storage solutions, and bold colors are key cabinetry trends. Refrigeration, heat, and storage are being integrated seamlessly.

Are you inspired by these trends? We’d love to help incorporate these elements into your next kitchen remodel!

A Dream Home for a Growing Family

As a young family with two energetic boys, this household was bursting at the seams and needed a home that provided space for everyone—including their beloved dog. What began as a cramped 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house was transformed into a spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, complete with a large living area, playroom, and office.

The renovation preserved the foundation and front elevation wall while the rest of the home was demolished to start anew. The homeowners envisioned bright, open spaces, ample storage, and a design that balanced beauty with everyday living.

Kitchen & Mudroom: A Functional Haven

For a busy working mom, a well-organized kitchen was essential. This space needed ample storage and counter space for cooking, entertaining, and after-school activities. Designed for efficiency, the kitchen features accessories such as a trash pullout, cutlery pullout, cutting board storage, and a concealed dishwasher with a panel front to blend seamlessly into the island. Alabaster painted cabinets, quartz countertops, and champagne bronze fixtures add a touch of classic elegance, while statement light fixtures provide just the right mix of modern and traditional.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the mudroom serves as a landing zone for the family. With two little boys, this space needed to be practical yet stylish. A built-in bench with storage cubbies provides a convenient place to put on shoes, while tongue-and-groove paneling enhances the aesthetic. Additional pantry storage was incorporated into this area, ensuring small appliances and everyday essentials remain easily accessible but neatly tucked away.

Living Room: A Space for Gathering

The family had several key requests for their living space: an inviting area to watch football, an open connection to the kitchen, ample windows, and a dedicated spot for their Christmas tree. These elements were carefully considered throughout the design process. The vaulted ceiling, adorned with stained beams, adds warmth and dimension. A brick tile fireplace facade seamlessly integrates with custom built-ins, which echo the cabinetry in the kitchen. Large windows along the rear elevation flood the room with natural light while offering a clear view of the backyard—perfect for keeping an eye on the kids at play.

Powder Room: A Statement Space

The powder room provided an opportunity to introduce bold character without feeling overly feminine. This colorful wallpaper brings a fun and vibrant touch, while a brass and marble console vanity, brass sconces, and a detailed mirror complete the look.

Primary Suite: A Relaxing Retreat

After long days at work, on the golf course, or chasing two energetic boys, the homeowners needed a retreat to unwind. The primary suite delivers just that. The en-suite bathroom features elegant marble hexagon flooring, custom cabinetry, and thoughtful storage solutions—including a built-in pullout for hair tools with an integrated electrical outlet. A cast-iron pedestal tub, set beneath a sunlit window, pairs beautifully with a champagne bronze wall-mounted tub faucet. Marble tile extends across the shower floor and walls, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere.

Upstairs: A Haven for the Boys

The upstairs was designed with the boys in mind. Their bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom, where Evergreen Fog-painted walls complement custom-stained vanities and black fixtures. A large playroom with hardwood flooring provides the perfect space for Legos, trucks, and imaginative play—plus, it’s easy to clean up after inevitable spills.

A hidden bookshelf door at the top of the stairs conceals valuable attic storage while also serving as a unique design element.

A Home with Heart and Thoughtful Details

A key safety feature was the storm-safe room, designed to provide peace of mind for a storm-conscious child. Hidden beneath the stairs, this steel-reinforced space is accessed through a secret door and offers a secure place to wait out bad weather—with plenty of room for snacks and games to keep spirits high.

Another meaningful touch? To make the addition possible, a hickory tree in the backyard had to be removed. Instead of letting it go to waste, the homeowners had it milled and repurposed as ceiling planking for their vaulted back porch—creating a stunning natural feature that ties the home’s design to its roots. Cedar columns and beams further enhance the warm, inviting feel of this outdoor living space.

From the welcoming foyer to the tucked-away home office, every detail of this home was thoughtfully curated to create a functional, stylish, and family-friendly retreat. This transformation truly represents a dream home come to life— and we’d love to help make yours a reality too!

Our Favorite Paint Colors for 2025 (and Beyond)

As a design-build construction company, we know that the right paint color can transform a space. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or just looking to refresh your home, choosing the perfect shade is an essential step in creating a space that reflects your style. Here’s a look at some of our favorite colors for 2025 and beyond!

1. Pale Oak (OC-20)

Combining just the right amount of gray and beige, this versatile shade can be used everywhere from doors and trim to kitchen cabinets. It is perfect for creating a light, airy space while also providing depth.

2. Riviera Azure (BM 822)

This vibrant and refreshing blue brings a bright, coastal feel, with plenty of personality. Pair it with natural wood tones and playful wallpaper for a fun, inviting atmosphere that stands out.

3. Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)

This rich, warm charcoal with bronze undertones is ideal for exteriors and spaces that crave a dramatic elegance. It pairs beautifully with soft neutrals and natural wood tones, adding a modern, grounded feel to any room.

4. Alabaster (SW 7008)

Our favorite white here at ELM! Alabaster is a soft white with a hint of warmth without feeling too creamy or stark. Whether on cabinets, walls, or trim, it creates a sleek, clean look—especially in bathrooms.

5. Chelsea Mauve (SW 0002)

A soft, muted mauve with warm undertones, Chelsea Mauve adds a touch of fun and sophistication to spaces. It’s a beautiful choice for color-drenching a powder room or butler’s pantry-and for a daughter’s bedroom that she can grow into through the years.

6. Desert Twilight (BM 2137-40)

This soft, neutral olive green has a grounding quality that brings peace and balance. Beautiful on cabinets, trim, and paneling, Desert Twilight elevates any room and blends perfectly with natural materials and fabrics.

7. Dove Wing (BM 960)

A creamy off-white with subtle gray undertones, Dove Wing adds a soft elegance to any room. Perfect for matching walls, ceilings, and trim, this color complements both contemporary and traditional spaces. Pair it with rich neutrals and earthy tones to create an inviting, cozy atmosphere.

How to Choose the Right Paint Color

When selecting a paint color, consider:

• Lighting: Observe how lighting affects the room and test samples on the wall. Does the room have a lot of natural light? Do the light fixtures within the room lean more warm or cool toned?

• Existing Elements: Consider your floors and existing furniture. Will it blend the old and new elements, or will you need to replace more than anticipated?

• Mood: Think about the feeling you want to experience in the space. Should it feel relaxing and moody, or bright and cheery when you walk in?

Need Help Deciding?

Our design team is with you every step of the way, guiding you through each design decision—including choosing the perfect paint color! That’s what sets us apart as a design-build company: we make the process seamless for you, the client!

Remodeling your kitchen or bath? Avoid these mistakes

Newly remodeled bathroom with ample storage

A kitchen or bathroom remodel is an exciting opportunity to make your house feel more like home. It gives you the chance to design a space that meets all your unique wants and needs since you are in control.

However, even though most homeowners do tons of research before making major remodeling decisions, some areas tend to get overlooked.

There is no shortage of advice on what you should “do” during a kitchen or bathroom renovation. But not much about what you should avoid.

Here are some things we don’t recommend doing in a kitchen or bathroom remodel.

Don’t put aesthetics above functionality

You have probably scrolled through a billion pins on Pinterest and know what you want design-wise, but your focus should be on creating a more functional space. In the kitchen, your sink, stove, and refrigerator should be close together to make cooking more efficient.

You'll also want to make sure you have easy access to heavier items like a stand mixer or crock pot, so including an appliance garage or appliance lifts should be considered, even if it detracts from the picture-perfect image you have in your mind.

In the bathroom, of course, you want a spacious and luxurious space, but it also needs to be practical. Above anything else, the layout must be considered to optimize space and privacy.

If you don’t have a separate toilet closet, you should make sure your toilet is not the first thing you see as you walk in the door. You could also consider nixing the tub and opting for a larger walk-in shower to maximize floor space.

Under-range storage for pots and pans

Don’t underestimate your storage needs

One of the biggest regrets and complaints we hear from homeowners is that there needs to be more storage space for all of their belongings. This is especially true in the kitchen and bathroom, so don't underestimate your storage needs while you are remodeling.

Installing cabinet drawers in the kitchen is one way to maximize your storage space and can be designed to give you plenty of room for your pots, pans, dishes, and kitchen gadgets. Including a pantry is another great idea to ensure all your food items and extras have a designated home.

Insufficient storage in the bathroom can lead to clutter, which is not what you want to see in what's supposed to be a relaxing spa-like space. Simple storage solutions include floating shelves or a recessed medicine cabinet where you can keep beauty products and other essentials.

You could also include a closet with plenty of shelving for towels and bath items or an oversized vanity with under-sink storage space.

Downdraft ventilation range hood

Don’t ignore ventilation

Ventilation is not exciting, but it is an important health component in the kitchen and bathroom.

A range hood is needed in the kitchen to control odor, smoke, and grease. Without it, your kitchen could feel dirty, and your indoor air quality could be impacted. Fortunately, decorative range hoods are a huge design trend we will be seeing more of, so it should be easy to find one that works with your kitchen design.

Ventilation is just as important in the bathroom since the bathroom is a high-moisture area. Without proper ventilation, you could be faced with mold and mildew, which can damage your home and impact your indoor air quality. Choosing an exhaust fan that is large enough for your space is pretty easy and will make a big difference.

We can help!

If you have an idea of what you'd like in your kitchen or bathroom remodel, we can bring it to life! We will also guide you through the parts that you may have overlooked, like ventilation and storage. Give us a call so we can get started!

Kitchen Design: Add Zones for Style & Function

Kitchens are where families cook, gather, and socialize, so they need to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. Finding that balance can be difficult for many homeowners.

If you’re one of them, here's the secret courtesy of our own designer, Liz Kennedy: Create designated spaces throughout your kitchen!

Kennedy noticed that most traditionally designed kitchens don't have designated spaces. These spaces can help with organization, and with the right design, they can also add character and charm to the kitchen.

These are some of the designated kitchen spaces Kennedy loves to incorporate into a kitchen design.

Appliance garage

The appliance garage is a newer kitchen design trend that we are loving. Basically, it's an additional kitchen cabinet that sits on the countertop where you can store small appliances like the toaster, mixer, and even the microwave.

The appliance garage eliminates the problem of having too much countertop clutter while allowing easy access to frequently used items.

Roll-up, lift-up, or retractable doors provide easy access to the space. They can also have pull-out shelves to make heavy appliances more accessible. They're such a smart solution to kitchen storage without compromising the kitchen's aesthetic.

Wet bar

If you enjoy hosting dinner parties and get-togethers, the wet bar is another designated space to include in your kitchen. A wet bar is an area complete with a sink and storage dedicated to keeping cocktail essentials organized for entertaining guests.

Adding a wet bar to your kitchen design will also add to the space's aesthetic appeal. Using complimentary cabinetry and finishes will allow the wet bar to blend seamlessly with the kitchen design.

However, you could also give the wet bar its own personality. This could include bold accent colors, decorative or metal finishes, antique mirror, decorative tile, or accent lighting to make it a standout feature of your kitchen.

Coffee bar

Most people start their day with a big cup of coffee. Why not create a functional kitchen space just for coffee, dress it up, and make it a focal point of your space? 

Finding a nook in your kitchen can showcase that expensive espresso maker and create a practical and stylish coffee bar.

Kennedy is currently converting a small pantry into a coffee bar in her own kitchen. She noticed that the pantry had a lot of wasted space that could be used in a more meaningful way. Her coffee bar will include a space for everyday items like K-cups, coffee mugs, making her morning routine much easier while freeing up useful countertop space.

The goal in designated spaces is all about function. In today’s society we’re always running to get to the next place, so we really want to make the most of the time we have at home. Whether it’s a busy school morning or family Christmas dinner, zones create an aesthetically pleasing and functional kitchen you can truly enjoy.

If you need help creating designated spaces in your kitchen, give us a call. ELM is an award-winning design/build company based in Vestavia Hills, AL. We would love the opportunity to see how we can work together to create the kitchen you've been dreaming of.

ELM Construction’s Liz Kennedy is a Woman to Watch

At ELM Construction, we are proud that our own Liz Kennedy has been named one of the Birmingham Business Journal’s Women to Watch in 2024.

The goal of the Women to Watch program is to recognize women who are making an impact in their industries and communities. Liz is the perfect example of this, as she brings her leadership, innovation, and dedication to everything she does.

We all know Liz to be a talented designer. The projects she leads have made an impact on countless families in the Birmingham area, providing them with beautiful, elegant homes they can take pride in and enjoy for generations.

She achieves this by working closely with her clients, listening to their needs, and helping to make sure that projects are executed according to their vision. Her work reflects her passion for creating growth opportunities and her commitment to excellence.

Driven by Family and Faith

For Liz, the foundation for her success and perseverance lies in her family and her faith. She has leaned on her faith and the support of her loved ones to push through moments of doubt and adversity.

Her family motivates her to continue striving for excellence, while her faith provides her with the strength and guidance to pursue her goals, both professionally and personally. It is through this powerful combination that she gets the determination to make an impact in her work and in her community.

Leadership and Innovation

Liz has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. Her strategic vision and ability to inspire her team have led to beautiful, inspiring designs that her clients have loved.

With Liz leading our design team, ELM Construction has received recognition at both the local and even the national levels. Her leadership style has helped us foster a culture of collaboration and forward-thinking that serves our clients well.

Liz's approach to leadership is rooted in her belief that innovation is key to staying competitive in today’s fast-paced market. She has implemented strategies that have streamlined processes, improved client relationships, and bolstered our reputation as a market leader.

Championing Women in Business

Liz’s recognition as one of the Women to Watch in 2024 is a result of her professional achievements, and more importantly, her role as a mentor and advocate for women in business. She understands the unique challenges women face in the corporate world and sees it as her responsibility to support the next generation of female leaders.

By creating opportunities for women to thrive and succeed, Liz is helping to level the playing field in construction. Through her mentorship and professional development, she has empowered many women to break barriers and achieve new heights in their careers.

Making a Difference in Birmingham

Outside of work, Liz is passionate about giving back to her community. She has spearheaded several philanthropic initiatives aimed at supporting local organizations and causes. Her dedication to making Birmingham a better place for everyone exemplifies her belief that business leaders have a responsibility to contribute to the communities in which they operate.

Liz does all this because she wants to create a lasting, positive impact. She is always looking for ways to make a difference and trying to inspire others to do the same.

Above all, Liz is humble. So if you work with her on your home renovation, or you see her around town, be sure to say congratulations.

We’re very proud to have her on the ELM Construction team!