Chip and Joanna took on the challenge of reconfiguring and remodeling a nondescript early-90s home, turning it into a showplace with the rustic Italian feel their clients were in search of.

Standard Fare. The dated home had been on the market for a while and was aesthetically less-than-spectacular. But it came with four bedrooms, 3500 square feet and a generous amount of land. It was built in 1992, and the list price was $319,000. "I don't see 'rustic' or 'Italian'", Chip told Joanna, "but the land is sweet, and I can't wait for you to work your magic." The clients' $425,000 budget left more than $100,000 for renovations, which was plenty for Chip and Joanna to work with.

Zesty Italian. The freshened up exterior, with new stone on the chimney and columns, and contrasting wood elements, hint at some of the European influences that would be incorporated inside.

The interior entryway, prior to the renovation, was as plain and uninteresting as the exterior.