Search results for "Briefing" in Home Design Ideas

This amazing remodel by J.S. Brown & Co. in the River Forest neighborhood in Dublin, Ohio was designed with sunshine in mind! By removing an interior wall, the kitchen was completely opened to the adjacent sunroom for maximum views of the spectacular back yard. Also on the mission brief from the homeowners was shady place to enjoy their yard outdoors. A large roof over a paver patio was just the ticket for watching the grandkids run around in cool comfort.

Client: Private Residence In South London
Brief: To supply & install silk simulant carpet from Natural Elements to stairs
Staircase - mid-sized transitional carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase idea in London with carpeted risers
Staircase - mid-sized transitional carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase idea in London with carpeted risers

Introducing our modern Mt Eden beauty.
The brief for this elegant character home, featuring split-level open-plan living, was to brighten and modernise the space with clean lines while improving functionality and flow, especially around the cooking zone.
To achieve this, we relocated the rangehood, hob and oven to the back wall, opening sightlines into the living area. We also specified modern luxuries, including an instant hot water tap, combi oven, warming drawer and matte glass induction cooktop, giving the enthusiastic home cooks everything they need for entertaining friends and family.
A large bifold-door pantry with an internal benchtop and dedicated breakfast zone creates a practical space for busy mornings, along with generous storage for pantry staples.
White cabinetry, shark-nose profiles, classic Primestone Calacatta Gold benchtops and chrome tapware complete the sleek design, delivering timeless appeal transforming the home for modern living.
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Client: Private Residence In Central London
Brief: To supply and install wooden stairs
Staircase - mid-sized transitional wooden u-shaped wood railing staircase idea in London with wooden risers
Staircase - mid-sized transitional wooden u-shaped wood railing staircase idea in London with wooden risers

The client’s brief was to create a space reminiscent of their beloved downtown Chicago industrial loft, in a rural farm setting, while incorporating their unique collection of vintage and architectural salvage. The result is a custom designed space that blends life on the farm with an industrial sensibility.
The new house is located on approximately the same footprint as the original farm house on the property. Barely visible from the road due to the protection of conifer trees and a long driveway, the house sits on the edge of a field with views of the neighbouring 60 acre farm and creek that runs along the length of the property.
The main level open living space is conceived as a transparent social hub for viewing the landscape. Large sliding glass doors create strong visual connections with an adjacent barn on one end and a mature black walnut tree on the other.
The house is situated to optimize views, while at the same time protecting occupants from blazing summer sun and stiff winter winds. The wall to wall sliding doors on the south side of the main living space provide expansive views to the creek, and allow for breezes to flow throughout. The wrap around aluminum louvered sun shade tempers the sun.
The subdued exterior material palette is defined by horizontal wood siding, standing seam metal roofing and large format polished concrete blocks.
The interiors were driven by the owners’ desire to have a home that would properly feature their unique vintage collection, and yet have a modern open layout. Polished concrete floors and steel beams on the main level set the industrial tone and are paired with a stainless steel island counter top, backsplash and industrial range hood in the kitchen. An old drinking fountain is built-in to the mudroom millwork, carefully restored bi-parting doors frame the library entrance, and a vibrant antique stained glass panel is set into the foyer wall allowing diffused coloured light to spill into the hallway. Upstairs, refurbished claw foot tubs are situated to view the landscape.
The double height library with mezzanine serves as a prominent feature and quiet retreat for the residents. The white oak millwork exquisitely displays the homeowners’ vast collection of books and manuscripts. The material palette is complemented by steel counter tops, stainless steel ladder hardware and matte black metal mezzanine guards. The stairs carry the same language, with white oak open risers and stainless steel woven wire mesh panels set into a matte black steel frame.
The overall effect is a truly sublime blend of an industrial modern aesthetic punctuated by personal elements of the owners’ storied life.
Photography: James Brittain

Client: Private Residence In North London
Brief: To supply & install brown carpet as a runner to stairs
Mid-sized transitional carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase photo in London with carpeted risers
Mid-sized transitional carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase photo in London with carpeted risers

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

Client: Private Residence In East London
Brief: To supply & install black carpet to stairs as a runner with border
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase remodel in London
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase remodel in London

Scandi-crafted Home Interiors in Dynasty Court
Tucked away atop of the Victoria Peak behind Hong Kong's unrelenting hustle and bustle, the residences found along Old Peak Road have been known to offer an oasis just within reach of the city. Set at the western point of Hong Kong Island, this panoramic neighbourhood boasts beautiful views over the town, hiking trails galore, and some of the city's priciest homes. Given its regarded status, it's of little surprise that those who live atop of The Peak chose to renovate rather than relocate as the years go by.
Having worked with Clifton, ten years prior, the homeowner of the Dynasty Court Residence believed it to be time for his 1,794sq.ft three-bedroom apartment to be given a complete and total facelift. Built back in the '90s, the residence had been updated once before through Clifton's services, but with a new chapter of retirement drawing nearer, the desire for a modern touch presented itself once again – this time with inspiration from Scandinavian interiors.
Given the instructions to keep the prior design of architectural and office feel but update everything, CLDW took on the role of refurbisher to their repeat client, this time however with a more curved and coloured approach than the boxey one before it.
With the brief of out with the old, in with the new underway, Clifton and his team set out to deploy a modern feel to the apartment with updates to everything from the floors, walls, doors and even the appliances – prioritizing functionality and simplicity. As the kitchen had been left out of the past retouch, this time around with retirement underway in was more important to give the couple a contemporary space to explore their culinary skills. Rounded chairs and tables complement the more square-like feel of the room, with washed grey tiles and soft tan cabinets.
Meanwhile, the living room and dining room were under the instructions to be void of paintings and wall decorations – with the exception of the past CD changer – as the focal point of the rooms was to remain the spectacular view which looks down upon Hong Kong's Central district all the way to the Kowloon harbourside. Again, curvey furniture can be seen among the interiors, with rounded sofas, chairs and even the coffee table. The furniture – much like the interiors – remains minimalist, as the homeowners require little to no storage space, a rare thing indeed for Hong Kong.
Inside the master bedroom, the updated lighting remains concealed within the walls as another finely executed play on curves from Clifton, which ensures minimalism. Over to the guest bedroom/study, more brown tones can be seen for an Earthy feel for guests, and the Mrs of the house to do her exercises.
With Scandinavian design and minimalism being one of the most popular trends of modern interior design, it takes a true professional to understand its principals of warm and natural palettes, while not too overpowering and bright. Ever present in the Dynasty Court home is the maximization of natural light, which gives it an airy environment a house at the Peak most certainly deserves.

Client: Private Residence In South London
Brief: To supply & install Amtico flooring
Inspiration for a contemporary living room remodel in London
Inspiration for a contemporary living room remodel in London

Client: Private Residence In North London
Brief: To supply & install black & white striped carpet runner to stairs
Mid-sized transitional carpeted straight wood railing staircase photo in London with carpeted risers
Mid-sized transitional carpeted straight wood railing staircase photo in London with carpeted risers

Client: Private Residence In Marylebone
Brief: To supply & install Xylo R54 wood flooring to premises
Example of a trendy living room design in London
Example of a trendy living room design in London

Client: Private Residence In East London
Brief: To supply & install grey herringbone carpet with whipped black edges to stairs and areas
Trendy hallway photo in London
Trendy hallway photo in London

Client: Private Residence In South London
Brief: To supply & install Quirky carpet runner to stairs
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase remodel in London with carpeted risers
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase remodel in London with carpeted risers

A fun vibrant project for an amazing family in Fort Worth. The brief was to create a bright and cohesive color scheme for the whole house for a young family of 5.
Attention to detail, traffic patterns and the optimal use of space were all taken into consideration here. The end result was a gorgeous home that could be enjoyed by all members of the family and also by their guests when entertaining.

Client: Private Residence In South London
Brief: To supply & install brown carpet to stairs
Staircase - mid-sized traditional carpeted u-shaped staircase idea in London with carpeted risers
Staircase - mid-sized traditional carpeted u-shaped staircase idea in London with carpeted risers

Client: Private Residence In South London
Brief: To supply & install Amtico flooring
Example of a trendy living room design in London
Example of a trendy living room design in London

Client: Private Residence In North London
Brief: To supply & install brown carpet as a runner with brown edgings to stairs
Mid-sized transitional carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase photo in London with carpeted risers
Mid-sized transitional carpeted u-shaped wood railing staircase photo in London with carpeted risers

The apartment is located in a dreamy Chaillot area near Passy Water reservoirs and Arc de Triomphe in Paris XVI. The property is filled with lots of natural light and offers magnificent views straight to the water. We can even spot the Eiffel Tower.
The brief was to create a welcoming, modern yet cozy space filled with original art, modern and vintage timeless furniture and collectibles, mixing them with some already client’s owned furniture and art. The most important task was to source an exceptional dining table for 13 people to make family and friends’ jaws drop and make client’s heart jump from excitement. The client wanted to feel herself at home for the next several years of living at this rented property and wanted this interior to be her own reflection.
AUTHENTIC INTERIOR design studio also sourced unique, interesting pieces of art as well as furniture. What is the most exciting about sourcing hand-made, vintage or designer pieces is to learn their origin and the “why” – the real meaning of the design.
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful”. – William Morris

Client: Private Residence In Central London
Brief: To supply & install wood floor
Living room - contemporary living room idea in London
Living room - contemporary living room idea in London
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