As the end of the year nears, it naturally prompts reflection, rejoicing over the year’s wins and looking back with gratitude on the lessons learned. This year, we opened two new showrooms to expand our reach across Central Illinois, and we are so grateful for that. We continued to work with incredible clients, learning new ways to solve design challenges creatively. As we think over some of our favorite projects from the year, we also want to reflect on what we learned from them and share those takeaways with you!

1. Bathroom Blues

This bathroom project went a little viral on our social media, primarily because of the size of that walk-in shower! However, the shower wasn’t the only feature that stole the show- the backsplash tile also garnered attention! The multi-tonal marble herringbone tile was well-loved and arguably set the mood for this bathroom design.

One takeaway from this project is not to be afraid to have some fun with tile! Play with color, shape, and material and lean on your designer to help ensure all your selections will coordinate.

Favorite Features:

• Large walk-in shower
• Use of various tiles
• Custom wood stain
• Plenty of vanity storage
• Gold fixtures throughout

2. Refreshing Remodel

Tying together not two, but three cabinet finishes, this playful kitchen design is full of fun details that go beyond the visuals. This kitchen remodel added plenty of storage and functionality to serve this family better. We removed an outdated desk area and replaced it with a large pantry storage unit with roll-out shelves for easy access. Other custom cabinet features included a roll-out trash, a built-in microwave, a utensil pullout, spice storage, and a deep drawer next to the range for storing pots and pans. Stylistically, the homeowners wanted to go all-in with their quartz selection, extending it to the backsplash and adding a drop-miter edge to the island.

Advice from this project would be to first consider how you need your kitchen to function, but don’t forget to add in style choices that make you happy! Make a must-have list, then a would-like-to-have list, so you can prioritize features and make your budget go as far as possible.

Favorite Features:

• Mixed cabinet finishes
• Custom storage solutions
• Drop-miter quartz edge
• Custom island legs
• Maximized functionality

3. Breathtaking Built-ins

Right after entering, this new construction boasts beautiful built-ins, creating a gorgeous focal point for onlookers. With black slanted paneling framing the fireplace, the grand nature of this space draws your eye in, carrying it up the stone to the vaulted ceilings. As you get in closer, you’ll see the natural texture of the wood, mixed metals on the cabinet pulls, and, of course, the personal touches that decorate each shelf.

Something to note from this project is that you can add bold, striking features while still keeping your color palette neutral. Black can be a great alternative to adding a striking paint color without straying from neutrals. You can also play with patterns, scale, and finishes to create a dynamic design.

Favorite Features:

• Stained wood cabinetry
• Black paneling
• Grand fireplace with vaulted ceilings
• Neutral, high-contrast color palette
• Symmetrical, dynamic design

4. White & Wood

Two-toned cabinetry blends fresh white with warm woods for a balanced, timeless kitchen design. Gold fixtures are consistent throughout, adding touches of elegance on cabinetry, appliances, plumbing and light fixtures. The inset cabinetry gives off a sleek, put-together feel in a commonly high-traffic area. In this kitchen layout, the fridge is tucked away in the adjacent walk-in pantry along with a mix of open and closed storage for dry goods and cookware.

For those designing a custom kitchen, remember that sometimes the more unconventional layout actually makes sense. It’s okay to break from “the norm” to achieve the look and functionality you want. Put that fridge in the pantry if that’s where you like it!

Favorite Features:

• Intentional placement of stained cabinetry
• Glass door fronts
• Multi-tonal square tile backsplash
• Customized pantry storage
• Open shelving

5. Moody Makeover

This bathroom is known for its dark features, primarily the black quartz tops, black wall paint, and black shower tile. The high-contrast style exudes luxury, with intentional material selections throughout. A mix of black and gold is used for hardware finishes, thoughtfully chosen for each placement. This space features a double vanity and a separate makeup vanity, as well as a walk-in shower with glass doors, bench seating, and even a window!

Let this project remind you to make the most of the square footage your home offers. That small nook could be room for a makeup vanity, or that extra space could be an opportunity to extend your shower and add a bench. You don’t have to stick to the same footprint as before. Maximize that space!

Favorite Features:

• Mixed hardware finishes on the vanity
• Patterned tile shower
• Maximized layout
• Dark quartz color
• Custom storage roll-outs in the vanity

6. Organic Oasis

A beloved project from 2025, this kitchen remodel is nothing short of spectacular, with every detail well thought out for both beauty and functionality. The rounded island is arguably the most noticeable feature of this kitchen, complete with fluted panels that add a gorgeous texture to the already interesting cabinetry. The texture continues with a fluted sink front and reeded glass on the corner cabinet. The natural quartzite stone sits atop the lower cabinetry and extends up the wall as the backsplash, stopped by a ledge under the range hood. Aside from these dreamy details, this kitchen features custom storage solutions at every turn, making it both functional and visually captivating.

This project was long-awaited by the homeowner, patiently planning to get the most out of this redesign. Our advice here would be that some things are worth the wait, even if that means saving a little longer to get the upgrades you’re dreaming of, or to ensure that the custom island you want can be built exactly how you like it. If you’re already doing the remodel, you may as well try to get the most out of it!

Favorite Features:

• Textured details
• Natural quartzite with backsplash shelf
• Paneled appliances
• Rounded island shape
• Hidden storage features

7. Splendid Sage

It’s hard to say if the green cabinetry or checkered floors take the cake for the most defining feature of this project, which is perhaps what makes this kitchen design so memorable. From those design details to the hidden walk-in pantry and adjacent beverage bar, this kitchen is anything but average. With no shortage on storage, plenty of seating, and topped off with beautiful quartz counters, this kitchen has it all.

If you want to take a design risk but are nervous about how it will turn out, this is your sign to go for it! Before committing, however, we recommend viewing a 3D rendering of the design to ensure it meets your expectations. If you like the rendering, you’ll likely like the end result!

Favorite Features:

• Cabinet color (Dried Thyme by Sherwin-Williams)
• Tile flooring
• Inset cabinetry
• Beverage station with ice maker and mini fridge
• Hidden pantry entrance

8. Opulent Office

This project started with an idea and a dream, and we are so happy it came to fruition! This deeply moody home office is covered head to toe in black paint, extending to the trim, ceiling, doors, and, of course, the built-ins. Gold hardware and light fixtures pop against the black backdrop, creating a striking, glamorous contrast. While functioning as a work desk, it also provides ample storage, leaving room for some personal decor. Right off the entryway, this home office is sure to be a talking point as guests catch a glimpse.

The concept of color drenching continues to gain popularity in interiors, and even though it may be nerve-racking, the result can be so worth it! This design wouldn’t be as impactful without the total commitment to the black paint color.

Favorite Features:

• Dark color drenching
• Mix of open and closed storage
• Pendant lighting
• Wood countertops
• Textured hardware

9. Custom Cookery

Originally drawn up as a kitchen with a closed walk-in pantry, we opted to open up the layout while keeping a designated storage/prep space. The “pantry” cabinetry houses multiple custom storage solutions, including an appliance lift, sheet-pan storage, a Super Susan corner cabinet, and tray roll-outs for dry goods. The custom storage continues throughout the rest of the kitchen, including a coffee cabinet dimensioned to fit a coffee pot and add-ins on the bottom, with shelves for mugs and glassware above. Stylistically, this kitchen gives a nod to industrial design with the metal range hood, made from aluminum. The goal was to bring in a moody paint color for the main wall of cabinetry, while contrasting it with bright white quartz to keep it from being too dark overall.

This project should encourage anyone designing their own custom kitchen to use the custom capabilities to the fullest extent! If you have a mug collection that you want near the coffee pot, measure your tallest one and plan a shelf specifically to house them. Do you plan to bake often? Create a prep space with custom storage solutions for all your favorite baking utensils. You likely already know how you want to use your kitchen, so make sure your design caters to that as much as possible!

Favorite Features:

• Metal range hood
• Custom storage features
• Deep green cabinetry
• Custom island shelving
• Intentional layout

10. Pink Paradise

Pretty in pink, this bathroom design will be remembered for its adorable charm, catered perfectly to the young sisters who will be sharing it! Beautiful pink florals fill the vanity wall, complemented by gold fixtures for a touch of glam. The edging on the quartz backsplash, along with the reeded drawers, gives this vanity an unequivocally custom look. Entering the shower room, you are greeted by an unforgettable multitone tile that keeps the fun going.

What we hope you take away from this project is to consider who you are designing for. How can you add personality to your home to reflect yourself, your family, or your client (if you’re a designer)? Not everything has to be neutral if that’s not your style. Your home is your sanctuary, don’t be afraid to fill it with joy!

Favorite Features:

• Floral wallpaper
• Pink tile
• Mixed use of door styles on the vanity
• Pendant lights
• Detailed quartz edge

As we move into the new year, we hope you can use these takeaways to inspire your 2026 projects. There are so many more projects from 2025 that we loved, so make sure you’re following us on Instagram or Facebook so that you don’t miss any! Ready to get started on your 2026 project? Start planning now! Please email us at info@gravellanedesign.com to tell us about your home goals. We’d love to hear from you!