On a quiet cul-de-sac not too far from downtown San Luis Obispo lies the contemporary craftsman styled Clausen Residence. The challenges that accompanied this project were what, in the end, made it so interesting. The buildable area of the site is very small due to the fact that almost half of the property is occupied by a biological open space easement, established to protect the creek that runs behind the lot. In addition to this, the site is incredibly steep, which lent itself well to a stair stepped 3-story floor plan. Strict height restrictions set by the local jurisdiction governed the decision to bury the garage in the hill, and set the main living space on top of it, accompanied by the children’s bedrooms and game room further back on the site. The 3rd floor is occupied fully by the master suite, which looks down on the back yard below. Off of the great room is a vast deck, with built in barbecue, fire place and heaters, ideal for outdoor entertaining year round. The house, adorned in lap siding and true craftsman details is flanked by gorgeous oak trees and the creek beyond.

In Sioux Falls, homeowners sought to establish a versatile poolside patio area, capable of maximizing the summer season's enjoyment while offering protection against winter weather and precipitation. Azenco, renowned for its expertise, collaborated with its regional dealer, Concrete Outdoor Living, to conceive a sophisticated patio design. This design incorporates an elegant pergola system equipped with an adjustable roof mechanism. This innovative feature allows for the creation of shade during the warmer months, effective rain shielding, and the capacity to withstand winter snow. The Concrete Outdoor Living team carefully selected and incorporated robust concrete patio furniture designed to endure for an extended period, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the inclusion of a gas fire feature not only adds to the evening ambiance but also provides additional warmth in colder weather, making the space enjoyable throughout the year. This well-rounded design approach ensures that the patio serves as a delightful and adaptable outdoor living space.

This thoughtfully composed addition creates a luminous contemporary counterpoint to the existing dark-clad residence, drawing inspiration from the familiar silhouette of a rural barn while expressing it through a refined, modern architectural language. A steeply pitched gable frames an expansive steel-and-glass façade, bringing abundant natural light into the interior and establishing a strong visual connection to the surrounding wooded landscape. Textured stone piers anchor the transparent volume and introduce warmth and permanence, while charcoal-black framing and siding create a restrained palette that allows the autumn landscape and softly illuminated interior to become the focus. Inside, warm wood furnishings, neutral textiles, white walls, and carefully selected artwork soften the crisp architectural geometry. As daylight fades, the glazing transforms the addition into a glowing lantern within the landscape, creating a mood that is simultaneously intimate, serene, and dramatic. The overall design blends contemporary residential architecture with modern farmhouse and vernacular influences, balancing transparency and solidity, old and new, and the character of the existing home with a distinctly modern intervention.

In Sioux Falls, homeowners sought to establish a versatile poolside patio area, capable of maximizing the summer season's enjoyment while offering protection against winter weather and precipitation. Azenco, renowned for its expertise, collaborated with its regional dealer, Concrete Outdoor Living, to conceive a sophisticated patio design. This design incorporates an elegant pergola system equipped with an adjustable roof mechanism. This innovative feature allows for the creation of shade during the warmer months, effective rain shielding, and the capacity to withstand winter snow. The Concrete Outdoor Living team carefully selected and incorporated robust concrete patio furniture designed to endure for an extended period, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the inclusion of a gas fire feature not only adds to the evening ambiance but also provides additional warmth in colder weather, making the space enjoyable throughout the year. This well-rounded design approach ensures that the patio serves as a delightful and adaptable outdoor living space.

In Sioux Falls, homeowners sought to establish a versatile poolside patio area, capable of maximizing the summer season's enjoyment while offering protection against winter weather and precipitation. Azenco, renowned for its expertise, collaborated with its regional dealer, Concrete Outdoor Living, to conceive a sophisticated patio design. This design incorporates an elegant pergola system equipped with an adjustable roof mechanism. This innovative feature allows for the creation of shade during the warmer months, effective rain shielding, and the capacity to withstand winter snow. The Concrete Outdoor Living team carefully selected and incorporated robust concrete patio furniture designed to endure for an extended period, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the inclusion of a gas fire feature not only adds to the evening ambiance but also provides additional warmth in colder weather, making the space enjoyable throughout the year. This well-rounded design approach ensures that the patio serves as a delightful and adaptable outdoor living space.

The entry was transformed into a striking first impression through the thoughtful layering of custom millwork, statement wallcoverings, and carefully curated finishes. What was once a simple builder-grade foyer now feels rich with character and architectural presence, setting the tone for the entire home. The addition of custom detailing, elevated lighting, and warm textures creates an inviting arrival experience, while the cohesive design elements carried throughout the residence establish a sense of elegance, sophistication, and intentionality from the moment guests walk through the door.

Photo by Alexandre Kühl Oliveira The rehabilitation project of the apartment is located in Lisbon, at Pascoal de Melo street, part of a mid-twentieth century building, in reasonable condition. The goal was to be able to feel the spaces always differently, in the way of use (cooking, sleeping, relaxing) and their interaction. The entire apartment has been designed taking into account the many sensorial appreciations. A set of points of view and volumes were established from the same space, reinforced by the chosen materials. On the kitchen, the project takes advantage of natural lighting, replacing the existing furniture for higher span, brighter and higher furniture and light-colored finishes that are great reflectors. In addition, the functional kitchen organization was re-designed in order to concentrate tall furniture at the entrance, freeing the area by the window to allow more light involvement. Three separate areas have been established: the cooking set with two countertops drawn from the wall to the floor, the kitchen sink closely resembles the high furniture of the kitchen and the dinning area by the window, which is more sheltered. The space once again aims to different points of view and the concept of voyeur is implicit.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

The entry was transformed into a striking first impression through the thoughtful layering of custom millwork, statement wallcoverings, and carefully curated finishes. What was once a simple builder-grade foyer now feels rich with character and architectural presence, setting the tone for the entire home. The addition of custom detailing, elevated lighting, and warm textures creates an inviting arrival experience, while the cohesive design elements carried throughout the residence establish a sense of elegance, sophistication, and intentionality from the moment guests walk through the door.

Wild Geranium / Geranium maculatum

This L-shaped kitchen is thoughtfully planned to support an efficient workflow, with a central island providing additional workspace and counter-height seating. White upper and lower cabinetry establishes a clean, cohesive backdrop, while stainless steel appliances are seamlessly incorporated for durability and performance. Black hardware and lighting fixtures provide subtle contrast and accent throughout the space.

Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia) makes a beautiful hedge and is great on slopes. It is so hearty, it's been called "nearly indestructible once established." It's leaves hold hydration in drought and high heat, making it an excellent addition to fire wise gardens.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.