Modern Roots Design + Build

The big dig is taking shape from the bottom up. Every project requires a solid foundation.

Happy Friday and welcome to the deluxe front porch & lounge ☀️✨

By day, it’s the perfect sunny south-facing spot to sip a cappuccino, relax with a book, or even get a little work done in the glow of natural light.

By night, the rich tones and layered lighting transform the space — full of depth, warmth, and mood. 🍷

Designed for comfort in every season, this porch features a heated tiled floor, built-in electric fireplace, custom wood paneling, new energy-efficient low-E windows and door, added insulation, and all-new light fixtures to set just the right vibe. There’s even a setup for a portable A/C unit to keep things cool in the summer.

This is a space made for living — 365 days a year.

We’re excited to share a glimpse into this recently completed basement transformation in Iowa City.

Once cold and utilitarian, the space has become clean, modern, and warmly inviting. Fully remodeled from floor to ceiling, it features refined lighting, a rehabilitated staircase with custom metal railing, and a new bathroom with a tiled shower, heated floors, and thoughtfully selected finishes.

Inspired by the owners’ love of art and design, the painting studio practice guided the palette and accents throughout. We are happy we could help refocus and rehab this space into a creative retreat built with purpose.

We had a fun time building a new stage for ! Just finished up today. Looking forward to some amazing performances.

Just finishing up this project and we wanted to share a few process photos. The kitchen area features cabinets that are constructed from white oak with an ultra flat (no sheen) finish. This finish completely seals the wood with minimal color changes and no gloss. The counters are quartz with integrated backsplash. Also included are a few photos of the mudroom and bathroom areas. More to come!

We are excited to share this recently completed basement and bathroom remodel. In the lower level the bar/kitchenette area was updated and the bathroom was fully renovated with a new tile shower. New flooring, painting, and lighting updates throughout. In the living area a new fireplace and tile surround with white oak shelving brings warmth and comfort to the space and brings everything together. On the 2nd floor the hall bath was updated with new tile, counters, flooring, painting and other improvements.

Sneak preview as we finish up this recent project. Things are looking good!

This primary suite bathroom was overdue for an update. All new tile, fixtures, and finishes throughout help to create a relaxing space with a view of Hancher from the bathtub!

It has been a while since we’ve posted. We’ve been very busy this year! Excited to start sharing some of our recent work beginning with this primary bathroom remodel completed in back in May. For this project the bathroom and closet walls were shifted around to create more closet space and eliminate the tub. Featuring a built in wall of white oak linen cabinets with integrated WC door, custom vanity cabinet, and dressing table, this bathroom is designed for comfort and elegance. Custom tile accents with textural and tonal variations coordinate the space and highlight Olga’s design choices.

Got the full Modern Roots family together for a recharging night out last Friday in Iowa City. Dinner at St. Burch and the BoDeans concert at The Englert. Good times!