Portfolio

Sunrise Drive Kitchen | Warm Modern Remodel in Catalina Foothills

This Catalina Foothills kitchen wasn’t working for the way this family lives. Low ceilings, poor lighting and limited storage made it a space they actively avoided. Before the renovation, the kitchen felt cramped and underutilized despite its location with beautiful views of the mountains.

The goal was to create a kitchen that felt open, functional and easy to live in—somewhere family and friends could naturally gather. It also needed to feel personal and specific to them, not like a generic remodel.

We started by rethinking storage. Working closely with a custom cabinet maker, we redesigned every cabinet to maximize function within a relatively compact footprint. A narrow pantry closet was transformed into full-height pull-out shelving, dramatically improving both access and capacity. Corner storage, vertical tray dividers, and dedicated zones for small appliances make the kitchen genuinely usable day to day.

The design also reflects how this family actually lives. We incorporated a coffee bar, planned for the supplies for two large dogs and made space for practical needs like a printer and utility storage.  These details are often overlooked but make a big difference.

Material choices ground the space while keeping it light. Natural walnut cabinetry adds warmth, paired with a soft desert green for contrast. A teal handmade tile backsplash brings texture and a sense of personality. White quartz countertops keep the main workspace bright and durable, while a darker soapstone-look surface at the coffee bar adds depth.

Extending the island created seating that allows people to gather comfortably, turning the kitchen into the center of the home rather than a pass-through space.

Now, instead of avoiding the kitchen, this family spends time in it—cooking, talking and enjoying everyday life together with a view of the Catalina Mountains.

La Paloma Primary Suite Remodel | Catalina Foothills Tucson

This Tucson primary suite was reimagined as a calm, highly functional retreat—designed around how the homeowners actually live day to day. What began as a stressful situation (water leak and mold) became an opportunity to completely reimagine the space into something calm, functional and deeply personal.

The project included a full redesign of the bedroom, bathroom and storage spaces, with an emphasis on creating a cohesive experience from one area to the next. From the beginning, the focus was on making smart, early decisions—aligning layout, materials and detailing so the entire suite feels intentional rather than pieced together. One of the guiding priorities was to preserve the integrity of the original architecture while thoughtfully enhancing it.

A new window and door package maximizes the views and brings in natural light, while integrated electronic blinds allow for effortless light control throughout the day. These updates fundamentally changed how the space feels and functions, connecting the interior more directly to the surrounding desert landscape.

Custom cabinetry plays a central role throughout. In the bedroom, a wall of integrated wardrobes provides concealed storage while maintaining a clean architectural presence. The adjacent closet was fully tailored with adjustable shelving, dedicated hanging space and detailed drawer inserts designed for visibility and ease—so everything has a place without adding visual noise.

In the bathroom, the design centers on a long double vanity topped with a dramatic natural stone slab. The movement in the stone introduces depth and contrast against a backdrop of soft blue tile, while warm brass hardware adds a layer of refinement. Every selection was made to feel elevated but not overstated.

The bathing area was designed as a quiet, spa-like zone within the home. A large, integrated plaster bathtub—designed specifically for this project—anchors the space, complemented by a built-in stone bench and a custom mosaic feature wall that brings subtle artistry and texture while maintaining a restrained, calming palette.

Throughout the suite, materials were chosen for both beauty and longevity—natural stone, warm wood tones and timeless finishes that will age well over time. Careful attention was also given to aging-in-place considerations, ensuring the space will continue to support the homeowners comfortably and safely over time without compromising the design.

Storage was approached with the same level of intention as the larger design moves, supporting daily routines while keeping the overall space uncluttered and intentional.

The result is a modern desert primary suite that feels quietly luxurious—highly functional, carefully detailed and deeply connected to the way the homeowners use their space every day.

As the client shared after completion,
“What was a nightmarish burden turned into a joyful adventure where my fondest dreams became realities.”

Dove Mountain Kitchen Remodel & Great Room Furnishings | Marana AZ

This Dove Mountain renovation in Marana, Arizona began with a kitchen that simply didn’t work. The layout was defined by awkward angles, limited circulation and harsh, ineffective lighting, making it difficult for two people to cook comfortably or gather and entertain.

By reclaiming underutilized space from an adjacent garage storage area, the footprint was reconfigured to create a true cook’s kitchen. Working within the constraints of a post-tension foundation, the layout was carefully planned to deliver a highly functional island-centered workspace without relocating the sink.

Custom cabinetry was designed down to the inch to maximize accessibility and storage. A striking quartzite island anchors the space and informed the overall palette, balancing soft white perimeter cabinetry with muted blue accents and warm wood tones.

Material choices bring warmth and a strong sense of place. A mesquite-accented vent hood, hand-painted ceramic knobs and subtle industrial lighting details are layered into a Scandinavian-inspired foundation that feels clean and intentional rather than stark.

Following the kitchen renovation, the project expanded into the adjoining dining, living and entry spaces. The dining area is bright and grounded, with natural materials and desert-inspired textiles that connect it to the surrounding landscape.

Furnishings throughout the great room were selected for comfort, durability and proper scale, particularly important for both the volume of the space and the height of the homeowners. A new electric fireplace with a volcanic stone surround creates a strong focal point in the living room, while layered lighting, vintage elements and varied textures make the space feel welcoming and livable.

The result is a cohesive home that feels grounded, highly functional and inviting—equally suited to everyday living and hosting extended family.

Rincon View

Full interior remodel, furnishings, window replacement and window coverings

Los Altos

Rillito River furnishings

I worked with these clients to furnish their dream retirement home. Inspired by their beloved art, my design focused on comfort and timeless design. They were not afraid of color and invested in quality semi-custom furnishings.  Floor planning for optimal function was a key element of this very successful design.
(CREDIT for kitchen & cabinetry: Southwest Kitchen & Bath)

Black Surrey

The homeowners wanted colors inspired by the desert and furnishings that felt like home.  We started by simply removing the curtain panels from the bedroom windows and the room instantly brightened.  Changing the paint from grey to a warm sandstone elevated the primary suite.  A muted yet colorful rug grounded the bedroom.  Then I sourced all original art and added lamps and faux plants for warmth.  The bathroom needed an update, so I recommended painting the vanity and adding fun hardware & lighting.  The recessed, lighted medicine cabinets upped their storage space considerably.

Ashling Lane kitchen

Ashling Lane kitchen & bathrooms

McKenzie Wash Rd

Interior and patio design and furnishings

Best of Houzz 2026

Best of Houzz 2026 - Client Satisfaction

Best of Houzz 2025

Best of Houzz 2025 - Client Satisfaction

Best of Houzz 2024

Best of Houzz 2024 - Client Satisfaction

Houzz Pro Software User

Houzz Barometer

Houzz Industry Research - Barometer

Recommended on Houzz

25 Ideabook Saves

header

center

<p>Alison River Interiors is a full-service interior design studio serving Tucson, Vail, Oro Valley, and the greater Pima County area of Arizona.</p>

footer

Home

About

BLOG

Contact

FAQs

Privacy Policy

Services

Testimonials

Project Highlight Video

Floor plan preview

Is this your business? <t1>Log In</t1> to your account on Houzz Pro to reactivate your profile.

Houzz Pro Account Suspended

We will get back to you by email as soon as possible.

We have received your inquiry!

Map for {location}

Privacy Policy for this Site

This website stores cookies on your device and handles your information in accordance with the <t1>Houzz Privacy Policy</t1> and <t2>this website privacy policy</t2>. Select your preferences below. When you click “{ACCEPT_ALL}” this website can give you the best possible user experience.

This Website Uses Cookies

Your privacy is important. You can select your cookie preferences as described below. You can modify your preferences at any time.

Read more about the <t1>Houzz Privacy Policy link</t1> and <t2>this website privacy policy</t2> for more information about how these cookies are used.

This website uses cookies and similar technologies. Strictly necessary cookies are necessary for our website to function properly. If you consent to the use of other cookies, we use them to personalize your experience, serve you relevant content, and improve our products and services.

PORTFOLIO

Get in Touch