A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

When the decision was made to add onto this house, our designer was able to give this family additional space to enjoy each other’s company. The existing part of basement had lower ceilings, but our team was able to add additional height to the addition. This not only opened up the space but also provided ample room for innovative design ideas. Sometimes, the layout of a space becomes apparent through practical considerations. We carefully selected the position of the TV and ping-pong table based on the layout, ensuring that the window placement wouldn’t interfere with the blue stone patio above. This thoughtfully crafted layout optimizes the functionality and flow of the space. With the challenge of a long, narrow space, we discovered the perfect solution – a dedicated ping-pong area. It’s amazing how a game can bring the family together and add a fun and dynamic element to the lower level. To create a visually appealing atmosphere, we incorporated a range of design elements. The colored cement floor adds a touch of uniqueness and is not only stylish but also durable. Two different tones of grass cloth wallpaper enhance the textured look of the walls, while the pine tongue and groove ceiling, combined with exposed beams, infuse warmth into the space. The six hanging pendant light fixtures serve as functional and decorative elements, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. This lower level addition is a testament to our ability to adapt to the unique challenges of a project and create a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It’s a wonderful example of how creative solutions can transform even the most challenging spaces into areas of style and purpose. At Crystal Kitchen, we’re committed to turning your vision into reality, whether it’s a basement, kitchen, home office, or any other area of your home. If you’re looking to create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle, get in touch with us today, and let’s make your dream a reality. Your home should be a reflection of you, and we’re here to bring your dreams to life.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

When the decision was made to add onto this house, our designer was able to give this family additional space to enjoy each other’s company. The existing part of basement had lower ceilings, but our team was able to add additional height to the addition. This not only opened up the space but also provided ample room for innovative design ideas. Sometimes, the layout of a space becomes apparent through practical considerations. We carefully selected the position of the TV and ping-pong table based on the layout, ensuring that the window placement wouldn’t interfere with the blue stone patio above. This thoughtfully crafted layout optimizes the functionality and flow of the space. With the challenge of a long, narrow space, we discovered the perfect solution – a dedicated ping-pong area. It’s amazing how a game can bring the family together and add a fun and dynamic element to the lower level. To create a visually appealing atmosphere, we incorporated a range of design elements. The colored cement floor adds a touch of uniqueness and is not only stylish but also durable. Two different tones of grass cloth wallpaper enhance the textured look of the walls, while the pine tongue and groove ceiling, combined with exposed beams, infuse warmth into the space. The six hanging pendant light fixtures serve as functional and decorative elements, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. This lower level addition is a testament to our ability to adapt to the unique challenges of a project and create a space that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It’s a wonderful example of how creative solutions can transform even the most challenging spaces into areas of style and purpose. At Crystal Kitchen, we’re committed to turning your vision into reality, whether it’s a basement, kitchen, home office, or any other area of your home. If you’re looking to create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle, get in touch with us today, and let’s make your dream a reality. Your home should be a reflection of you, and we’re here to bring your dreams to life.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

Demarcation between the BLUE BOX and the original pared-down Living. Photography by Beton Brut.
Inspiration for a kitchen remodel in Singapore

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

This three-storey 19th-century building was originally a dairy. In the 1980s it was vertically subdivided into three narrow townhouse units. To expand the apparent width of the second-floor living area, we replaced the existing enclosed stair with a new stair behind transparent floor-to-ceiling glass panels. View facing east through second-floor living area, with reclaimed wide board white oak flooring and cherry wall framing.

A true challenge...This property had fallen out of escrow several times before it became our residence. Apparently, know one knew what to do with this 1954 California ranch. After several months, my former partner and I decided to blend my favorite "craftsman" and his "clean modern" elements together. Always listen to the home, consider it a type of architectural dance and the home will lead you. Strong use of horizontal warm native redwoods contrasting smooth exterior stucco. Water elements that greet you at the entrance and reappear in the geometrically inspired rear garden. This was personally, one of my favorite projects.

The unique design concept of A139 is rooted in the basic geometric idea of two interlocking rectangles. This distinctive feature, along with the incorporation of rectangular geometries into the natural environment, sets it apart. The deliberate placement of a few windows in the front enhances privacy, while the addition of wooded and water elements to the facade creates a sober and elegant aesthetic. The project maintains a common language in its materiality: apparent concrete, steel, and wood. The three materials are presented sincerely from the outside of the house and continue on a constant journey through the interior. A139 is adjacent to the spring forest, privileged in its geographical position. We considered that the project’s purpose was that from any point of the house, we would have panoramic views that would serve as ambiance for itself and thus generate “natural pictures.” Our design philosophy for A139 was to seamlessly integrate the forest into the house. To achieve this, we created interior courtyards and spaces, blurring the boundary between the exterior and the interior. This approach not only enhances the living experience but also fosters a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings. The house’s program is characterized by its social areas on the first floor, which can be combined to generate larger spaces if necessary. On the first floor are four bedrooms, each with a dressing room, bathroom, and terraces overlooking the spring forest. Casa A139 speaks for itself and presents itself honestly, subtly setting the views and ample spaces in the hierarchy by the natural textures of the materials.

We are delighted to have completed the radical transformation of a tired detached property in South Croydon. When they appointed Granit, our clients were living in the property which had previously been divided into a number of flats. The historic sub-division had resulted in an extremely poor use of space with redundant staircases, kitchens and bathrooms throughout. Our clients sought to reconfigure the property back into a single dwelling for his growing family. Our client had an eye for design and was keen to balance contemporary design whilst maintaining as much of the character of the original house. Maximising natural light, space and establishing a visual and physical connection were also key drivers for the design. Owing to the size of the property, it became apparent that reconfiguration rather than extension provided the solution to meet the brief. A metal clad ‘intervention’ was introduced to the rear facade. This created a strong horizontal element creating a visual balance with the vertical nature of the three storey gable. The metal cladding specified echoed the colour of the red brick string courses tying old with new. Slender frame sliding doors provide access and views of the large garden. The central circulation space was transformed by the introduction of a double height glazed slot wrapping up the rear facade and onto the roof. This allows daylight to permeate into the heart of the otherwise dark deep floor plan. The staircase was reconfigured into a series of landings looking down over the main void space below and out towards the tree canopies at the rear of the garden. The introduction of double pocket doors throughout the ground floor creates a series of interconnected spaces and the whitewashed Larch flooring flows seamlessly from room to room. A bold palette of colours and materials lends character and texture throughout the property. The end result is a spacious yet cosy environment for the family to inhabit for years to come.

We are delighted to have completed the radical transformation of a tired detached property in South Croydon. When they appointed Granit, our clients were living in the property which had previously been divided into a number of flats. The historic sub-division had resulted in an extremely poor use of space with redundant staircases, kitchens and bathrooms throughout. Our clients sought to reconfigure the property back into a single dwelling for his growing family. Our client had an eye for design and was keen to balance contemporary design whilst maintaining as much of the character of the original house. Maximising natural light, space and establishing a visual and physical connection were also key drivers for the design. Owing to the size of the property, it became apparent that reconfiguration rather than extension provided the solution to meet the brief. A metal clad ‘intervention’ was introduced to the rear facade. This created a strong horizontal element creating a visual balance with the vertical nature of the three storey gable. The metal cladding specified echoed the colour of the red brick string courses tying old with new. Slender frame sliding doors provide access and views of the large garden. The central circulation space was transformed by the introduction of a double height glazed slot wrapping up the rear facade and onto the roof. This allows daylight to permeate into the heart of the otherwise dark deep floor plan. The staircase was reconfigured into a series of landings looking down over the main void space below and out towards the tree canopies at the rear of the garden. The introduction of double pocket doors throughout the ground floor creates a series of interconnected spaces and the whitewashed Larch flooring flows seamlessly from room to room. A bold palette of colours and materials lends character and texture throughout the property. The end result is a spacious yet cosy environment for the family to inhabit for years to come.

The unique design concept of A139 is rooted in the basic geometric idea of two interlocking rectangles. This distinctive feature, along with the incorporation of rectangular geometries into the natural environment, sets it apart. The deliberate placement of a few windows in the front enhances privacy, while the addition of wooded and water elements to the facade creates a sober and elegant aesthetic. The project maintains a common language in its materiality: apparent concrete, steel, and wood. The three materials are presented sincerely from the outside of the house and continue on a constant journey through the interior. A139 is adjacent to the spring forest, privileged in its geographical position. We considered that the project’s purpose was that from any point of the house, we would have panoramic views that would serve as ambiance for itself and thus generate “natural pictures.” Our design philosophy for A139 was to seamlessly integrate the forest into the house. To achieve this, we created interior courtyards and spaces, blurring the boundary between the exterior and the interior. This approach not only enhances the living experience but also fosters a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings. The house’s program is characterized by its social areas on the first floor, which can be combined to generate larger spaces if necessary. On the first floor are four bedrooms, each with a dressing room, bathroom, and terraces overlooking the spring forest. Casa A139 speaks for itself and presents itself honestly, subtly setting the views and ample spaces in the hierarchy by the natural textures of the materials.

On the shores belonging to the Sea of Cortez in the Querencia development, Casa Querencia 56 is located perched on a cliff with a difference of 36 meters in height from the highest point to the lowest point of the land, blessed with one of the best views of the Sea of Cortez and San Jose del Cabo. Casa Querencia 56 is a unique concept that seamlessly integrates luxury living with the rugged beauty of Los Cabos. Its design, using regional materials such as stone, wood, and inked apparent concrete, creates a symbiotic relationship between the house and its natural surroundings. The design of Casa Querencia 56 is not just about aesthetics but also functionality. The project’s volumetry, based on elements on posts and staggered to create elongated forms, ensures that each space has a view of the sea and provides natural lighting and ventilation in every area. Casa Querencia 56 is divided into three main blocks. The first is the private area, which includes five bedrooms with respective dressing rooms and bathrooms and private terraces with contemplative spaces. The second is the social area, which is on one floor and has a 28-meter infinity pool. The third is the social and recreational area, which has a cinema, Candy bar, indoor and outdoor gym, spa, firepit, indoor and outdoor game room, and a guest casita with two extra rooms. Casa Querencia 56 balances luxury architecture and the natural context of the place without having more hierarchy than the incredible views. It enjoys generous spaces and exquisite amenities, preserving the principles of architecture.