This one-acre property now features a trio of homes on three lots where previously there was only a single home on one lot. Surrounded by other single family homes in a neighborhood where vacant parcels are virtually unheard of, this project created the rare opportunity of constructing not one, but two new homes. The owners purchased the property as a retirement investment with the goal of relocating from the East Coast to live in one of the new homes and sell the other two. The original home - designed by the distinguished architectural firm of Edwards & Plunkett in the 1930's - underwent a complete remodel both inside and out. While respecting the original architecture, this 2,089 sq. ft., two bedroom, two bath home features new interior and exterior finishes, reclaimed wood ceilings, custom light fixtures, stained glass windows, and a new three-car garage. The two new homes on the lot reflect the style of the original home, only grander. Neighborhood design standards required Spanish Colonial details – classic red tile roofs and stucco exteriors. Both new three-bedroom homes with additional study were designed with aging in place in mind and equipped with elevator systems, fireplaces, balconies, and other custom amenities including open beam ceilings, hand-painted tiles, and dark hardwood floors. Photographer: Santa Barbara Real Estate Photography

Phil and Rocio, little did you know how perfect your timing was when you came to us and asked for a “small but perfect home”. Fertile ground indeed as we thought about working on something like a precious gem, or what we’re calling a NEW Jewel. So many of our clients now are building smaller homes because they simply don’t need a bigger one. Seems smart for many reasons: less vacuuming, less heating and cooling, less taxes. And for many, less strain on the finances as we get to the point where retirement shines bright and hopeful. For the jewel of a home we wanted to start with 1,000 square feet. Enough room for a pleasant common area, a couple of away rooms for bed and work, a couple of bathrooms and yes to a mudroom and pantry. (For Phil and Rocio’s, we ended up with 1,140 square feet.) The Jewel would not compromise on design intent, envelope or craft intensity. This is the big benefit of the smaller footprint, of course. By using a pure and simple form for the house volume, a true jewel would have enough money in the budget for the highest quality materials, net-zero levels of insulation, triple pane windows, and a high-efficiency heat pump. Additionally, the doors would be handcrafted, the cabinets solid wood, the finishes exquisite, and craftsmanship shudderingly excellent. Our many thanks to Phil and Rocio for including us in their dream home project. It is truly a Jewel! From the homeowners (read their full note here): “It is quite difficult to express the deep sense of gratitude we feel towards everyone that contributed to the Jewel…many of which I don’t have the ability to send this to, or even be able to name. The artistic, creative flair combined with real-life practicality is a major component of our place we will love for many years to come. Please pass on our thanks to everyone that was involved. We look forward to visits from any and all as time goes by." –Phil and Rocio Read more about the first steps for this Jewel on our blog. Reclaimed Wood, Kitchen Cabinetry, Bedroom Door: Pioneer Millworks Entry door: NEWwoodworks Professional Photos: Loren Nelson Photography

Eagerly awaiting retirement, a New England-based client acquired a property in a former office building in central Lisbon. Artfully refurbished by Frederico Valsassina Arquitectos, the façade is composed of geometric strata of medium-gray panels alternating with weathered vertical staves. Our studio’s brief was to furnish and equip the interior of the vacation home to converse with the architecture, so family and friends visiting Lisbon would stay in an elegant, private setting, filled with locally-made and designer items. Upon entering, a small shelf and mirror function as a welcome valet. The corridor opens to a cozy living room with lambent afternoon light let in by large sliding doors. Just outside, the balcony sports a café table and chairs set for an aperitivo. An enveloping sofa, produced in Portugal, and an organic recliner, create an intimate lounge area facing a classic, modular media cabinet. An artisan-made wool ottoman adds a beat of color; the lights speak in plump opaline glass and thin black metal rods. The glass top of the dining table fades into the space, leaving its sculptural, marine blue base; in a play of textures, the upholstery of the dining chairs coordinates elegantly with the smoked glass. Tile, oak, and stainless steel come together in a custom kitchen island, with additional counter space and convenient storage. As the interior is replete with oiled oak in the floors, baseboards, doors, and cabinetry, matching wood furniture warms the bedrooms. The vertical spindles of the beds recall the pattern of the exterior façade. Laptop work is accommodated by a small console desk with a chair clothed in burgundy. Acorn-shaped pendants, inviting bed linens and rugs, and undulating curtains, all in the warm white of the walls, form a nest for relaxation.

After recently retiring and spending more time at home, Mercer Island resident, Kathy, was ready to say goodbye to her home’s country kitchen and outdated rooms of 15 years. She was ready to enjoy a reinvigorated kitchen update! We replaced the island with a custom-built island to match the perimeter cabinets’ style and we added a new beverage center near the kitchen’s entryway. The new, stunning, maple countertop on the island immediately grabs your attention and the new, quartz countertop and a subway tile backsplash of the surrounding cabinets provides the perfect complement. In addition, there is now herringbone accent tiling located over the range and new plumbing with stainless steel sinks and matching faucets nearby. After some reconfiguration, the existing cabinets received a fresh coat of paint and new hardware to complete the kitchen upgrade.

This thoughtfully-designed, newly-constructed, 1,600 square foot cottage blends timeless Modern Craftsman aesthetics with practical functionality, offering a spacious, light-filled retreat perfect for both day-to-day retirement living and entertaining friends and family. The home features an open-concept layout with a seamless flow between the great room, dining area, and kitchen, creating a welcoming and connected atmosphere. At the heart of the design is a large, covered screened room with a cozy stone fireplace, providing a comfortable indoor-outdoor living space year-round. Adjacent to the screened room is a generous waterside deck, ideal for outdoor entertaining. The deck is complete with a stone-surround outdoor fireplace and ample space for guests, making it the perfect spot to gather while enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the water. The layout includes a private primary bedroom and a second bedroom, both located on the main level for ease of living. The large, functional laundry and mudroom is conveniently situated with exterior access, helping to keep the home organized. It features a walk-in closet adjacent to the oversized two-car garage, providing additional storage and utility. This Modern Craftsman bungalow is designed to blend craftsmanship, comfort, and contemporary living, offering a beautiful and functional space for a modern lifestyle in a serene, natural setting.

Our clients had recently become empty nesters and downsized from a large home to a smaller retirement community. After replacing the floor tile in their bathroom, we chose a paint color for the entire interior. They were unsure how to make the best use of their new floor plan, particularly the entry, which lacked function. To solve this, we removed an extra bookshelf from their spare room and relocated it to the front entry. We then fabricated a custom quartz top for the bookshelf, transforming it into an entertaining space for guests and parties. In the spare room, where the shelves had been removed, we installed a Murphy bed to provide additional guest accommodations. For the living room, we sourced a hand-knotted rug that set the foundation for the room by adding warmth, texture, and a sense of grounding. Its subtle pattern tied in perfectly with the color palette we envisioned. To complement it, we custom-designed both the sofa and the swivel chair, ensuring the proportions, fabrics, and finishes aligned seamlessly with the rug and the overall style of the home. The client did not like the existing pendants that hung over the kitchen counter so we replaced them with hand-blown glass lighting. In the Master Bedroom, we took advantage of the high ceilings by installing an ethereal wallpaper from one of my favorite designers, Candice Olson. We designed a custom bed as the focal point of the room, complemented by Hand forged Wall sconces and a custom dresser.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.

The homeowners sought to turn their “weekend home” into their future “retirement home,” so in addition to aesthetic updating, this thoughtful renovation looked for options to help them age in place. Goals included improving functionality by extending the kitchen footprint, adding considerable storage and modernizing the look, feel and function of both the main-floor living space and primary suite in the loft. A minimalist design across the home embraces neutral coastal colours and materials to create an inviting, relaxing setting without overwhelming the compact space.

A couple retiring early to a Lake District property asked us to modernise their kitchen and utility space. They wanted to keep the areas separate, with the utility serving as their working space for laundry and for storing their walking boots after long walks in the fells. For their kitchen, they chose a handleless Keller Bronx Kitchen in Wild Oak, finished in an Ultra Matt Mist light grey colour. This was beautifully paired with 20mm quartz worktops, featuring an undermounted sink and matching splashback panels. We aimed to give the room character while maintaining a modern appeal. The clients love the new drawer systems, finding everything easily accessible. The kitchen is visually pleasing and simple to keep clean. The clean design created plenty of clear worktop space, complemented by a Quooker tap for instant boiling water, adding a touch of luxury. Modern Siemens appliances, including an inductAir vented hob, were seamlessly integrated into the layout to ensure an efficient kitchen workflow. Through the door, the utility room features matching furniture but with handled doors, prioritising practicality. It includes a stainless steel sink with a pull-down spray tap, while compact laminate worktops and splashbacks proved an excellent choice for this space. An integrated utility unit for cleaning products and laundry was a useful addition, with the washer and tumble dryer built-in to keep the room organised. A small boot unit made from the same Keller furniture was designed to sit on when putting boots on, alongside coat hooks for outdoor wear. Both rooms were finished with LVT tile-effect flooring installed by our trusted partner tradesmen. The flooring creating a seamless flow between the rooms. We also added under-wall unit LED lighting in both rooms, complementing the recently updated ceiling lights.

This Seward Park residence was reimagined for a retired architect returning to Seattle, blending bold design with practical function. The remodel retained only the original foundation, reinforcing it to support a brand-new second story. Vaulted ceilings and a glass railing system give the home an airy, open feel filled with natural light. Inside, modern upgrades include a chef’s kitchen with a 48” range, built-in refrigerator, and smart storage throughout. Floating vanities make bathrooms easy to maintain, while thoughtful finishes add everyday convenience. Outside, new retaining walls, pervious pavers, and gravel pits provide stormwater management and off-street parking—all while enhancing curb appeal. The result is a modern, stylish home designed for comfortable living and long-term resilience.

The homeowners sought to turn their “weekend home” into their future “retirement home,” so in addition to aesthetic updating, this thoughtful renovation looked for options to help them age in place. Goals included improving functionality by extending the kitchen footprint, adding considerable storage and modernizing the look, feel and function of both the main-floor living space and primary suite in the loft. A minimalist design across the home embraces neutral coastal colours and materials to create an inviting, relaxing setting without overwhelming the compact space.

Stacy Zarin Goldberg photography
Transitional kitchen photo in DC Metro

Our retired homeowners have a large, beautiful property. With a property this large and a fixed income budget, we decided to prioritize the garden space close to the house. The homeowner’s wish list included a French lavender garden and space to entertain another couple or two, as well as protection from the afternoon sun. We designed a new covered patio space with large format pavers, pulling it away from the house to meet code setbacks, building an expansive patio for both living dining. Hidden automatic electric shades give protection from afternoon sun. With the addition of a fan, shade cloth and heaters, the homeowners have a space to enjoy year-round.

Family room - mediterranean family room idea in Austin

Reclaimed wormy chestnut steals the show in this kitchen remodel. The hand-planed, hand-pegged cabinetry and pantry door provide a warm, authentic backdrop. Our clients, a retired couple who enjoy hosting family gatherings with their grandchildren, longed for a space that would welcome a crown. They desired an open plan to incorporate their bright sunroom that serves as their family room. The light from the sun room would change the existing dark kitchen dramatically. It was important to the couple that the kitchen work zones be tucked away for uninterrupted meal prep and clean up. Their wish list also included the addition of a wet bar area for more storage, home office needs, and entertaining. The white, transitional wet bar cabinetry compliments the chocolate brown chestnut beautifully. The homeowners have a flair for color and were inspired by pieces they collected in their travels leading them to choose red as an accent color along with Tuscan style seating for finishing touches. Matt Villano Photography

Our Clients, a retired couple with a dog, were first time renovators. They approached Sosna to renovate their outdated Shared Bathroom because they were embarrassed for guests to use it. The cluttered layout was difficult to navigate, and it lacked useful storage space. As well, there was no fan for proper ventilation. They were concerned about a renovation being messy, and disrupting their everyday lives, as they would be living in their home during construction. They also had a tight deadline that needed to be met. We completed this project on time, with great care taken so the family would be comfortable during the duration of construction. The Bathroom was given a fresh update with clean, modern tiles on the floor and shower walls, which were complimented with herringbone accent tiles. A glass shower door provided a more open and airy feel to the space. A stylish navy blue navy blue prefabricated vanity adorned with elegant gold hardware and a brushed nickel faucet, as well as a white freestanding cabinet, and wall mounted cabinet provided plenty of useful storage space. The Shared Bathroom was tied together with a blend of gold and brushed nickel hardware used throughout. As a result of the renovation, the couple now enjoys a fresh and modern Shared Bathroom that they take pride in showing to their guests. The addition of extra storage space has eliminated clutter, and everything has its place. The installation of a timer fan ensures proper ventilation. These updates have significantly improved the functionality of the Bathroom, creating a more comfortable and useful space for the family.

Phil and Rocio, little did you know how perfect your timing was when you came to us and asked for a “small but perfect home”. Fertile ground indeed as we thought about working on something like a precious gem, or what we’re calling a NEW Jewel. So many of our clients now are building smaller homes because they simply don’t need a bigger one. Seems smart for many reasons: less vacuuming, less heating and cooling, less taxes. And for many, less strain on the finances as we get to the point where retirement shines bright and hopeful. For the jewel of a home we wanted to start with 1,000 square feet. Enough room for a pleasant common area, a couple of away rooms for bed and work, a couple of bathrooms and yes to a mudroom and pantry. (For Phil and Rocio’s, we ended up with 1,140 square feet.) The Jewel would not compromise on design intent, envelope or craft intensity. This is the big benefit of the smaller footprint, of course. By using a pure and simple form for the house volume, a true jewel would have enough money in the budget for the highest quality materials, net-zero levels of insulation, triple pane windows, and a high-efficiency heat pump. Additionally, the doors would be handcrafted, the cabinets solid wood, the finishes exquisite, and craftsmanship shudderingly excellent. Our many thanks to Phil and Rocio for including us in their dream home project. It is truly a Jewel! From the homeowners (read their full note here): “It is quite difficult to express the deep sense of gratitude we feel towards everyone that contributed to the Jewel…many of which I don’t have the ability to send this to, or even be able to name. The artistic, creative flair combined with real-life practicality is a major component of our place we will love for many years to come. Please pass on our thanks to everyone that was involved. We look forward to visits from any and all as time goes by." –Phil and Rocio Read more about the first steps for this Jewel on our blog. Reclaimed Wood, Kitchen Cabinetry, Bedroom Door: Pioneer Millworks Entry door: NEWwoodworks Professional Photos: Loren Nelson Photography

The homeowners sought to turn their “weekend home” into their future “retirement home,” so in addition to aesthetic updating, this thoughtful renovation looked for options to help them age in place. Goals included improving functionality by extending the kitchen footprint, adding considerable storage and modernizing the look, feel and function of both the main-floor living space and primary suite in the loft. A minimalist design across the home embraces neutral coastal colours and materials to create an inviting, relaxing setting without overwhelming the compact space.

The client approached us as he had a property that benefited from an elevated position and water views over the Georges River. The current home needed a change to the layout, additional bedrooms and living spaces that captured the magnificent views and catering for their retirement. The existing property had a garage, rumpus room and two terrace’s within the front setback along the boundary which needed to remain as part of the proposal as it would not be permissible to reinstate them under the current planning rules. The floor plan of the development is meticulous in providing for the needs of the client. As seniors in their 70’s we were keen to provide easy access on a steep sloping block. The driveway, lift and elevation of the main floor level adjacent to the rear garden has achieved this brilliantly. Enjoyment of the stunning views over the river was of paramount importance and this has been elegantly achieved. There are great views from all three terraces, the entire upper floor, including the master bedroom, the lift, the rear patio and rear garden. The highlight of this home, however, is the enthusiastic manner which, both the client and designer approached the picturesque views. Large double glazed windows and doors optimally located provide wonderful thermal efficiency and a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors whilst ensuring privacy from neighbouring sites. The light and airy feeling in this space is complemented with the natural coastal finishes prevalent throughout the home.