As far as the onset of great renovation stories go, it’s the opening line to end opening lines: “All we were going to do was knock out this one wall.” But then, it’s 5 p.m. on a beautiful summer afternoon, and you’re sitting with Susie Fandos before a reclaimed-wood wall treatment that’s tonality perfectly complements burnt-orange terra-cotta tiles and the Old World, European-inspired color palette of the now-open kitchen and exceptionally furnished dining room. And – amid all that glorious enterprise – only one thought comes to mind: Must have been one hell of a wall.

When purchasing his condo in May 2014, Steve Toedebusch was surprised he chose the first-floor unit in the Clayton high rise. After years of living in the Central West End, the Clayton location was convenient, and the building, built in the mid-1970s, featured 9-foot ceilings, great security and its own dog park where he could take his dog Edie. Even better, the condo serves as a pied-a-terre between St. Louis and his residence in Palm Springs. “This place is so convenient because I can close the door and not worry when I am away,” Toedebusch says.

Remodeling is on the rise in 2015 as more and more homeowners are taking the steps to improve one, if not several, spaces in their homes. Careful planning, sticking to a budget and enlisting the help of an interior design, architect and/or remodeling professional will ensure a successful end result. If you are considering embarking on a remodeling project, we want you to be inspired. This special before-and-after section highlights innovation and clever design at its finest.

For our September Before/After issue, we asked local designers and builders if high ceilings are here to stay. Here’s what the professionals had to say.

Classic
“Classic. I don't think 8-foot ceilings will ever be a craze again. I do believe 9-foot ceilings will continue to be classic, mainly considering budget. If the budget can warrant the 10-foot to 12-foot ceiling, I feel they will always be the choice.” Pamela Calvert, Creative Director, ASID.

If you have limited space in the bath, a pedestal sink is an ideal option. The freestanding sinks come in a wide variety of styles and materials for a sleek design statement.

Veneto pedestal sink, by Stone Forest, available at Immerse by ATLAS, Henry Plumbing Kitchen & Bath Galleries and Ferguson.

Create depth and visual interest in your bathroom with geometric tiles.

one: Entourage felicity in vintage mint, by American Olean, available at The Gallery at ISC Surfaces.

two: Devotion lotus in transcend blend, by Oceanside Glasstile, available at The Gallery at ISC Surfaces.

three: Cento "H" of Euro Collection, available at Trends in Tile.