Klopf Architecture and Outer space Landscape Architects designed a new warm, modern, open, indoor-outdoor home in Los Altos, California. Inspired by mid-century modern homes but looking for something completely new and custom, the owners, a couple with two children, bought an older ranch style home with the intention of replacing it. Created on a grid, the house is designed to be at rest with differentiated spaces for activities; living, playing, cooking, dining and a piano space. The low-sloping gable roof over the great room brings a grand feeling to the space. The clerestory windows at the high sloping roof make the grand space light and airy. Upon entering the house, an open atrium entry in the middle of the house provides light and nature to the great room. The Heath tile wall at the back of the atrium blocks direct view of the rear yard from the entry door for privacy. The bedrooms, bathrooms, play room and the sitting room are under flat wing-like roofs that balance on either side of the low sloping gable roof of the main space. Large sliding glass panels and pocketing glass doors foster openness to the front and back yards. In the front there is a fenced-in play space connected to the play room, creating an indoor-outdoor play space that could change in use over the years. The play room can also be closed off from the great room with a large pocketing door. In the rear, everything opens up to a deck overlooking a pool where the family can come together outdoors. Wood siding travels from exterior to interior, accentuating the indoor-outdoor nature of the house. Where the exterior siding doesn’t come inside, a palette of white oak floors, white walls, walnut cabinetry, and dark window frames ties all the spaces together to create a uniform feeling and flow throughout the house. The custom cabinetry matches the minimal joinery of the rest of the house, a trim-less, minimal appearance. Wood siding was mitered in the corners, including where siding meets the interior drywall. Wall materials were held up off the floor with a minimal reveal. This tight detailing gives a sense of cleanliness to the house. The garage door of the house is completely flush and of the same material as the garage wall, de-emphasizing the garage door and making the street presentation of the house kinder to the neighborhood. The house is akin to a custom, modern-day Eichler home in many ways. Inspired by mid-century modern homes with today’s materials, approaches, standards, and technologies. The goals were to create an indoor-outdoor home that was energy-efficient, light and flexible for young children to grow. This 3,000 square foot, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom new house is located in Los Altos in the heart of the Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, and Chuang-Ming Liu 
Landscape Architect: Outer space Landscape Architects 
Structural Engineer: ZFA Structural Engineers 
Staging: Da Lusso Design 
Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed 
Location: Los Altos, CA
 Year completed: 2017

Jennifer and Dan have lived in their Deer Park Illinois home for 15 years, slowly making minor fixes like painting and decorating; but they had a new plan for their kitchen the entire time. An awkwardly placed garage door, and an island cooktop with a terrible downdraft made a full-scale kitchen remodel an absolute must. Jennifer had many ideas in mind and wanted to work with a company that could provide high-end work, while partnering with a designer that would tailor the kitchen to her ideas. She was intrigued by the phrase “Common Sense Remodeling” in Advance Design’s feature she discovered while perusing an issue of the community’s Quintessential Barrington Magazine. Doing further research on the company’s website, as she looked through project profiles and read about Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” philosophy, she promptly scheduled an appointment to see if the people and ideas she read about were truly who they said they were. The more she read, the more she knew that the “Common Sense” approach to remodeling they described was exactly the type of company she was looking for. The partnership was sealed after an initial consultation with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Michelle Lecinski. They displayed a combination of friendliness, professionalism and respect that was unmatched by any of the other companies Jennifer talked to. She knew that with Advance Design, she would be able to retain the vision that she had in mind with high-quality craftsmanship. “I reached out to Advance Design because of the ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ tagline,” Jennifer said. “That’s what lingered for me”. “Advance Design was the most respectful- of the house and of my design ideas, and the most professional of the handful of companies that looked at my project”. Soon after the meeting Jennifer began working with Michelle on the project design. They quickly developed chemistry. Jennifer loved how Michelle researched and located every detail that Jennifer wanted for the kitchen. Between the two of them, every concept and idea was worked through and perfected. “Jennifer had definite ideas about what she wanted the new kitchen to look like, she just didn’t know how to bring it all together. We worked together really well to make her ideas into the practical reality necessary for a well-functioning kitchen, with the look and feel that she had envisioned”, says Michelle. “Michelle was wonderful in using the CAD system she would show me new drawings every time we changed the layout while working through the design,” Jennifer said. “She was a really wonderful partner in execution, she made sure everything happened quickly and easily.” The finished design drew out elements of Jennifer’s style and personality. The pair call the look “sophisticated farmhouse” to describe the kitchen renovation to family and friends. The result was a beautifully crafted, authentic-feeling space that satisfied Jennifer’s dreams 15 years in the making. The whole project consisted of a kitchen remodel, mudroom upgrade with powder room, and garage entry relocation. “The projects I personally like the best, are the ones that put the client’s dreams on display,” Project Designer Michelle said. “And this is one of those projects.” The main focal point of the kitchen is custom zinc and brass ventilation hood with a vintage sheen, which was hand made to order by a small company in Indiana named Vogler Metalworking. “It’s like sculpture, a true work of art”, says Jennifer. Your eye is immediately drawn towards this elegant yet practical hood that eliminated the home’s downdraft problem and added a striking conversation piece at the same time. The carpenters had to use special gloves when transporting and installing it, so they didn’t smudge it with fingerprints. The beautiful hood centers proudly over the stunning black enamel and brass LaCornue Range. “I had a friend who had a LaCornue range and after learning how easy it was to cook perfect meals, I was convinced I wanted to have one”, says Jennifer. This unique, breathtaking combination anchors the entire kitchen and is apparent immediately as you walk into the great room the surrounds the space. DuraSupreme Crestwood cabinets with a Kendall Panel add function and sophistication. A custom gray paint color paired with a storm blue was developed so that the new kitchen looked like it belonged to the existing space. Unlacquered brass faucets and hardware were important to Jennifer because she wanted the living finishes to age over time. Remarkable brass diamond mesh cabinet door inserts imported from the UK continue to add this one-of-a-kind kitchen renovation; giving it a “you won’t see this everywhere” quality. The use of old railcar flooring for the coffee bar countertop and reclaimed oak for the open shelving gives an authenticity to the space uncommon in kitchens today. Jennifer and Michelle fell in love with the Limestone Grey Stone while they were investigating unique island countertop ideas. They liked the fact that the limestone as a living finish will age and change over time. Calcutta Miel Quartz countertops made for an excellent pairing around the perimeter, as it’s durable and perfect for cooking preparations. A textured white subway tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling keeps your eye moving towards the open shelving, and to the main focal point of the stunning range hood combination. “The kitchen functions beautifully, and it’s gorgeous,” beams Jennifer as she gestures with both hands while smiling ear to ear. “The most important thing was I wanted a kitchen that had a wonderful flow, cooked beautiful meals and was a great gathering place for family and friends, and this space does that perfectly! Beauty wise, it turned out exactly how I had envisioned. I felt the function part was the hardest part, and that was nailed”! Relocating the garage entry to the new mudroom was a huge priority and has finally separated the family’s arriving home functions from their kitchen. Now coats and shoes and bags have their own area for dropping once members arrive home. Matching gray DuraSupreme cabinetry helped create gorgeous, purposeful lockers for the family. A reclaimed vintage sink and custom wall paper were added to the tiny powder room to beautify the once previously only functional space. Advance Design was even able to create a custom space for their dog to sleep while the family is away. “It was unbelievable that a project of this size was completed in such a short time, and I think that’s because of the large amount of planning and preparation that went into it,” Jennifer marveled, “When we started, we were ready, and everything was prepared”. When it came to execution, Project Manager Justin Davis and his crew were quick, accessible, and organized. Projects like this kitchen are typically completed in as little as 8-10 weeks. Jennifer’s kitchen however despite the relocation of some challenging HVAC in a soffit and moving of an exterior door was completed remarkably fast in part because the team was working with an existing tile floor that ran throughout the first floor that the client really loved. “You get to know these people really well because they’re living in your house while you’re living in your house. They were so fast and really good, it didn’t take as long as even planned” reported Jennifer. “I would text Justin and he always responded almost immediately. I got to know all the guys who were working in our house and they were all wonderful people”. Details in a customized kitchen like this one require skill and care from the people who install it. “All the guys on the job were skilled at what the did. I wanted small details like little feet to look like furniture, that is where their carpentry skill came in to make these all perfect”, said Jennifer. “The tile guys were wonderful. They even let me determine how I wanted the texture with the grout to appear for a salt and pepper look; now that is a very skilled trade person making it custom”. In Jennifer’s interview, she continued to reference Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling”, so I took a minute to ask her exactly what that phrase meant to her and how it played out in her experience with her project and the Advance Design team. Here is what she said: “I was intrigued about Common Sense Remodeling and in my head that there would be clear costs and prices, great communication between the design team, the execution team and me”, said Jennifer. They did deliver on that, it was so clear about the cost breakdown, what I could expect from everyone who came to my house, and everything that we had ordered. That to me is the Common Sense”! It’s great to see a client take literally our assertion that a well-planned remodeling project is simply “Common Sense”! She anticipated each step of the way would be clear, concise, and predictable, all the while protecting the outcome due to the careful upfront planning. “Advance Design delivered on their ‘Common Sense Remodeling’ promise,” Jennifer said. “From the design team, to the execution team - everything was straight forward like I imagined. The project turned out exactly how I envisioned, I enjoyed this process and absolutely would recommend Advance Design Studio to anyone.”

An outdated 1960’s home with smaller rooms typical of this period was completely transformed into a timeless lakefront retreat that embraces the client’s traditions and memories. Anchoring it firmly in the present are modern appliances, extensive use of natural light, and a restructured floor plan that appears both spacious and intimate.

Rift-sawn white oak cabinetry was carried all the way to the 10-foot ceilings, maximizing storage while adding natural texture. A large island anchors the kitchen, while small appliances are tucked neatly behind pocket doors in a concealed appliance garage. Paneled refrigeration and dishwashing units maintain an uninterrupted flow of material, making the space appear larger, and Taj Mahal quartzite countertops extend seamlessly up the wall as a backsplash. A subtle shadow line detail on the island countertop adds modern refinement.

Lagoon-side property in the Bel Marin Keys, Novato, CA. Entertaining and enjoying the views were a primary design goal for this project. The project includes a large camaru deck with built-in seating. The concrete steps and pavers lead down to the water's edge. I included a sunken patio on one side and a beautiful Buddha statue on the other, surrounded by succulents and other low-water, contemporary plantings. Elfin thyme planted between the pavers along with shiny Mexican pebbles. Blue Oak Grass adds a strong contrast. This project was just completed. More photos will be included in Spring when the plantings fill in. Photos: © Eileen Kelly, Landscape Designer, Dig Your Garden Landscape Design.

Photograph © Ken Gutmaker • Interior Designer: Jennifer Ott Design • Architect: Studio Sarah Willmer Architecture • Builder: Blair Burke General Contractors, Inc.

A home In harmony with nature.
Example of a minimalist one-story flat roof design in New York

Gorgeous primary bathroom features warm tones, organic materials and a splash of glam.
Huge transitional master white tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile, beige floor and double-sink bathroom photo in San Diego with shaker cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink, a hinged shower door, white countertops, a niche, a built-in vanity and dark wood cabinets

A very handsome porte-cochere addition to this beautiful home. This addition also includes a breezeway to the house.
Porte cochere - craftsman two-car porte cochere idea in Nashville

Whistle Hill Lot 2 residence stands as one of the most architecturally ambitious homes in the development, a striking example of RWH Architect’s commitment to elevating modern design. Defined by its dramatic butterfly roof and a façade composed of clean horizontal cladding, vertical accents, and expansive window groupings, the home captures a sculptural presence rarely seen in the region. This is a residence designed to open itself to its surroundings, embracing light, volume, and long views in a way that signals a new era of contemporary architecture. The home features an attached three-car garage with an adjacent storage area, creating a practical yet visually streamlined entry sequence. Inside, the first floor is designed around livability and connection to the landscape. The foyer opens into a private office and then flows toward the main living areas. The master suite is intentionally tucked into a quiet corner on the first floor, positioned to overlook the backyard and shaped to allow morning light to filter softly into the space. Adjacent to the master suite is the laundry room, placed strategically for convenience. A secondary bedroom on the first floor includes a walk-in closet, and a nearby three-quarter bath offers flexibility for guests or extended family. The kitchen serves as the central gathering point of the home, anchored by a large island and complemented by a walk-in pantry. It overlooks an expansive wraparound deck that transitions seamlessly to a lower patio, creating layered outdoor living spaces. Both the dining room and the great room open directly to the deck, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The sunken great room is one of the home’s signature moments, featuring a floating fireplace that appears to hover within the space and accentuates the dramatic ceiling height created by the butterfly roof. The result is a room filled with daylight and volume, a contemporary living environment with an architectural presence that feels both bold and welcoming. Upstairs, the second floor includes two additional bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a full bathroom designed with modern simplicity. From the upper level, the design allows for open views extending back toward the dining room, creating visual connectivity between floors and emphasizing the vertical openness of the home. This intentional play of volume heightens the spatial experience and enhances the sense of modern airiness throughout the interior. This residence presented several unique design challenges that ultimately helped refine and elevate the final architectural expression. The sweeping butterfly roof created structural complexities due to its dramatic angles and its role in defining the home’s entire visual identity. RWH addressed this by carefully coordinating structural supports and framing patterns that allowed the roof to appear effortless while maintaining its sculptural form. Another significant challenge was balancing the extensive glazing with the need to preserve privacy and energy performance. RWH solved this by thoughtfully arranging high windows, angled openings, and varied window groupings that capture natural light without compromising comfort. Integrating a sunken great room with a floating fireplace required a precise approach to grading, floor transitions, and structural anchoring. Through detailed modeling and coordination, RWH ensured that the fireplace would appear weightless while remaining fully functional and safe. Creating uninterrupted views from the second floor to the dining room also required creative alignment of floor systems and rail detailing, which RWH resolved by designing sleek, integrated guardrails that preserve openness while meeting safety requirements. Whistle Hill Lot 2 stands as a bold architectural statement and a defining example of the evolving design language within the development. Through innovative forms, expansive volumes, and carefully orchestrated transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, RWH Architect has created a home that reflects the future of contemporary living in the area—forward-thinking, refined, and undeniably modern.

Sleeping Porch Sam Oberter Photography
This is an example of a large traditional screened-in back porch design in New York with decking and a roof extension.

Double shower in bay window. The bench is cantilevered out over the exterior wall below. Design, color scheme, lighting, and installation by Addhouse. Photo by Monkeyboy Productions

Photography by Studio H Landscape Architecture. Post processing by Isabella Li.
Design ideas for a small contemporary drought-tolerant and partial sun side yard stone garden path in Orange County.

Designed as a private sanctuary, Ventana House is a place to retreat and reflect. Located on a steep hillside overlooking the urban sprawl, the residence feels worlds away from the city below. Its cast-in-place concrete walls anchor the structure into the rugged terrain, grounding the architecture within the landscape. This mass is contrasted by a delicate scrim that appears to float above the living spaces, all tucked safely beneath the deep shadows of a large cowboy hat roof—an essential shield against the desert sun.

Rift-sawn white oak cabinetry was carried all the way to the 10-foot ceilings, maximizing storage while adding natural texture. A large island anchors the kitchen, while small appliances are tucked neatly behind pocket doors in a concealed appliance garage. Paneled refrigeration and dishwashing units maintain an uninterrupted flow of material, making the space appear larger, and Taj Mahal quartzite countertops extend seamlessly up the wall as a backsplash. A subtle shadow line detail on the island countertop adds modern refinement.

3 BU No 122 Small Truck with 2 inch stem casters Photo Credit: Amy Gerber/Brown Eyes Plus Blue (www.browneyesplusblue.com)
Inspiration for a timeless u-shaped dedicated laundry room remodel in Boston with a drop-in sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, a stacked washer/dryer and beige countertops

Farmhouse family room photo in Salt Lake City

This modern kitchen proves that black and white does not have to be boring, but can truly be BOLD! The wire brushed oak cabinets were painted black and white add texture while the aluminum trim gives it undeniably modern look. Don't let appearances fool you this kitchen was built for cooks, featuring all Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances including a retractable down draft vent hood.

Designed as a private sanctuary, Ventana House is a place to retreat and reflect. Located on a steep hillside overlooking the urban sprawl, the residence feels worlds away from the city below. Its cast-in-place concrete walls anchor the structure into the rugged terrain, grounding the architecture within the landscape. This mass is contrasted by a delicate scrim that appears to float above the living spaces, all tucked safely beneath the deep shadows of a large cowboy hat roof—an essential shield against the desert sun.