We all know the importance of having a place to feel at home—especially during times of crisis. For families with critically ill children in need of shelter, Stanford's Ronald McDonald House has long been a necessary retreat. But with limitied capacity, the group has been forced to turn away dozens of families each night. Now, thanks to a $3 million expansion and renovation by the San Francisco Design Center, the Stanford House is opening its doors to even more families in need.

Open to the public for tours now through the end of February, Standford's Ronald McDonald house feels more like home than ever due to the gracious pro bono efforts of 48 of the Bay Area's most talented interior designers and artists (even artist Zio Ziegler contributed an awesome mural).

Lead by Elizabeth Martin, Geoffrey de Sousa, and SFDC marketing VP Rhonda Hirata, the refurbished 52,000-square-foot, 67-room sanctuary was designed to create an environment of hope, love, and tranquility for families facing devastating circumstances. During the yearlong project, each piece of furniture, fixture, and creature comfort was carefully selected, the color of the walls thoughtfully considered. The designers provided their materials, as well as their time, at no cost.

“Families that come [here] are in crisis and don’t have a lot of time to think about what’s going on. They’re really worried and scared," says Annette Eros, CEO of Ronald McDonald House at Stanford. "The environment that has been created in this new house is so welcoming and comforting, it’s an instant relief for the families.”

The expansion also makes the dwelling at Stanford one of the largest among the 357 Ronald McDonald houses in the world, providing shelter, support, and community to families whose critically ill children being treated at nearby hospitals.

“One of my fears was that it would feel more like a hotel than a home away from home," Eros admits. "But this partnership was the answer to creating this space of warmth, a place that provides TLC. It’s so evident in every space you walk through that the people who designed these spaces really care about our families who stay here. I think that level of care is going to positively affect every family.”

Get a sneak peek at Stanford's beautifully revamped Ronald McDonald House in our slideshow above, but do also make the drive south for an in-person tour. Ticket sales will benefit the foundation.  //   Through Feb. 28, Thursdays through Mondays; tickets are $35 for adults; for children under 12, a donation of $10 is encouraged. Ronald McDonald House, 510 Sand Hill Road (Stanford),RMHStanford.org; sfdesigncenter.com