How can I make my home look bigger, brighter and better?

Without either adding on or adding up and without “clear-cutting” the interior walls? Yes, possible, and desirable in many cases in order to convert a drafty, outdated and sometimes dark home into a comfortable, modern residence. Bigger, by selectively opening spaces to one another yet providing subtle spatial definitions like ceiling-height changes, bookcases and even columns. Better, by updating systems to EarthCraft House and Energy Star levels and sealing/insulating the home thoroughly and by thoughtfully designing multiuse spaces. Brighter, by bringing in natural light where possible as well as providing an energy-efficient and well-designed lighting plan and by multiplying light with the appropriate wall, floor and ceiling surfaces and color palette.

—William Fadul, MOSAIC Group [Architects and Remodelers]