Home & Style

Ask a Remodeler: Case Design’s Lisa Magee on Kitchens and Baths

The pro renovator answers our design questions.

A kitchen design by Lisa Magee.

Case Design’s Lisa Magee has been a mainstay of the remodeling biz for 12 years, and in 2013 she was honored as one of the professional remodeling industry’s “40 Under 40.” Here, she tells us her opinion on form versus function—and her favorite place to splurge.

What’s one small trick that makes a big impact?

Knobs and pulls! Want your personality to show in your home? Replace those old drab pulls with something you love.

Best source for a high-design bargain?

Room & Board. If you’re looking for home furnishings but don’t want to take out a loan, you’ll be sure to find what you need here.

When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, which matters more: form or function?

This depends on what type of use it gets. If your parties are catered and you prefer dining out over cooking, your options for high design in your kitchen will be far greater. A handcrafted vessel sink that would never work in your kid’s bath might work wonders in the powder room.

What’s the one design element you always like to splurge on?

The kitchen sink. This is something you use several times a day and will appreciate spending more on.

Name your favorite:

Lamp: Hubbardton Forge.

Countertop material: Cambria Quartz.

Appliance: Thermador Pro Series Range.

Paint color: Benjamin Moore Pearl Gray. Pairs well with every accent color.