How to Strategically Place Bathroom Windows

Windows in a bathroom are really important! Why? They create light, feel and fresh air. They must be balanced with privacy. Because I live in downtown Portsmouth, I can sit at my kitchen island and see in 3 different bathroom windows. Honestly, it’s not good. My neighbors all laugh about it but it makes me very… Continue reading How to Strategically Place Bathroom Windows

Backsplash 101

Are you working on a kitchen renovation? If so, you are probably working out what to do with your backsplash. Fundamentally, you need a backsplash to keep water and other spills from ruining the drywall behind your counter. You have two choices: A standard 4” backsplash that is the same material as your countertop. This… Continue reading Backsplash 101

How to Transform Your Home with a Truss Roof

Does your home need a significant renovation? When I was hired for this “Ranch Renovation” the existing 1952 home was in desperate need of updating! To begin, the ceiling height was very low at only 7’6” high, which meant that the height of the windows were hung too low. All the windows were single pane… Continue reading How to Transform Your Home with a Truss Roof

Where Old Meets New

We do a lot of additions and renovations! And they are fun! Why…? I love the renovation challenge and no two homes are alike. I love taking an old home with old floor / ceiling joists and pushing the design to adjust to modern dimensions and building codes. Existing foundations and stair codes are rarely met… Continue reading Where Old Meets New

The Benefits of a “Whole Home Design” Approach

Why a holistic strategy delivers the best in architecture, interior design, and landscape for a connected whole home design When I’m starting a new whole home design project it feels like Christmas Eve – every time I am SO excited! There are so many possibilities, each more thrilling than the next. These beginnings are always… Continue reading The Benefits of a “Whole Home Design” Approach

Say “Yes, Please!” to a Kitchen Pantry

Say “Yes, Please!” to a Kitchen Pantry, and Create Unexpected Space-Efficiency, Flexibility & Flow There is no doubt a pantry in the kitchen can provide excellent functional storage. But if you have limited square footage to work with in your overall design – is it worth giving up space in the kitchen to create a… Continue reading Say “Yes, Please!” to a Kitchen Pantry

How to Create a “Forever Home”

Are you tired of moving? Are you looking for the opportunity to design your “last” home? Ironically, I have two of these projects on my boards right now. Life is life and is, of course, very unpredictable. But while you can’t control the circumstances and outcomes of life, we still owe it to ourselves to… Continue reading How to Create a “Forever Home”

The Design Process

Are you looking for a designer for a future project? I thought I would fill you in on a few key aspects of the design process at amy dutton Home. We work in phases throughout the project: Discovery, Schematic, and Construction Drawings. At the end of each of these phases, I work with one or… Continue reading The Design Process

How to Choose that Perfect Rug

Are you looking for that perfect rug? A lot more care and thought goes into the final purchase of a rug than one would think, so let us help you! Recently, I helped a client who was moving into a new house select and purchase all new rugs. So, I thought I would provide you… Continue reading How to Choose that Perfect Rug