The knock down & rebuild revolution is here to stay. This new modern family home replaces a tired old house that was not designed to capitalise on its location, whereas this new contemporary modern building has been designed to capitalise on the natural environment – natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views, to create a very liveable coastal family home. This new residence with its contemporary coastal styling utilises the natural finishes of modern materials to ground this family home’s context into this locations evolving executive seaside neighbourhood. This buildings design is a balance of form & function with a deliberate consideration of passive solar liveable design techniques, designed to capture the natural sunlight, sea breezes & sea views that this property offers. This new residence has been designed with a variety of indoor & outdoor living areas to capitalise on the natural environment & climate of this property’s location. This house incorporates design elements to allow the house to be comfortable all year round, providing a variety of areas for occupants to utilise, whether it be capturing natural sunlight & warmth in winter, creating cooling cross ventilation from sea breezes in summer & then there is the direct access to a beautifully natural landscaped garden, this new house will provide the occupants with a low maintenance, healthy living environment for years to come.

The view from the north exit into the private community gathering space. The pond is ephemeral and created by roof capture water. Once the pond is full, it overflows into the adjacent rain garden. There are three more rain gardens along the slope to gather overflow until any excess is sent to the city sewer.

The Gun Lake Residence replaces a small, aging, existing house located on a narrow peninsula on Gun Lake, in west Michigan. The peninsula is neatly populated with century-old homes that quietly occupy this uncommon setting. The project site offers extraordinary views of the water in multiple directions and extends to the east with open space, bordering on an historic, 19th-century community ice house. A primary project goal was to reimagine the relationship of the house to its surroundings while remaining sensitive to the communal context of the neighboring properties. The design seed of the new project included rotating the footprint of the existing house 90 degrees to open the long side of the home toward the lake, maximizing views and gaining optimal benefit of the linear site. Drawing inspiration from the traditional lake vernacular of the neighboring houses, the two principal roof forms of the new house reciprocate the setting -- the modern, clean lines of the upper gable roof upholds the clarity and tradition of the neighborhood, while the lower roof mimics the extension of the landscape and invites improvisational use. The horizontal flat roof allows use of the deck in all weather and cantilevers the most used public spaces into the landscape in a band of captured horizontal space. A wood-clad retaining wall refines a cut into the earth and harbors a transitional, outdoor room between the water and the basement. At 2200 finished square feet, the conditioned building envelope is compact. And like the exterior, the interior form responds directly to its use. The upper floor is a monastic repetition of modest sleeping cells and bathrooms with unique directional views, combined with a grand central stair and master bedroom at each corner that captures myriad views of the water, over the trees, in all directions. The main floor utilizes a core of small, functional spaces to shield the adjacent road, and forms a backdrop to the open interior spaces. Aided by the reaching, cedar-bellied roof, the living, dining, and kitchen spaces spill to the outdoors through an unusually porous exterior wall. Three sliding glass doors–including one at 20 feet wide–and a finished, surrounding ground plane cohere the landscape to the main living level. Super-insulated wood-framed walls, triple-paned aluminum-clad wood windows, and a structurally insulated roof panels make-up the core of the building envelope, and additional exterior high-performance design features include geothermal heating/cooling and a green roof. Cementitious lap siding, concrete panels, hardwood decking, cedar soffits, and river rock comprise the exterior finish. In addition to cedar ceilings, interior finishes include porcelain ceramic tile, cork flooring, tight pile wool carpet, and neutral painted walls -- designed in quiet tones to highlight the most important interior ingredient: views outside.

The family purchased the 1950s ranch on Mullet Lake because their daughter dreamed of being married on its shores. The home would be used for the wedding venue and then as a wedding gift to the young couple. We were originally hired in August 2014 to help with a simple renovation of the home that was to be completed well in advance of the August 2015 wedding date. However, thorough investigation revealed significant issues with the original foundation, floor framing and other critical elements of the home’s structure that made that impossible. Based on this information, the family decided to tear down and build again. So now we were tasked with designing a new home that would embody their daughter’s vision of a storybook home – a vision inspired by another one of our projects that she had toured. To capture this aesthetic, traditional cottage materials such as stone and cedar shakes are accentuated by more materials such as reclaimed barn wood siding and corrugated CORTEN steel accent roofs. Inside, interior finishes include hand-hewn timber accents that frame openings and highlight features like the entrance reading nook. Natural materials shine against white walls and simply furnished rooms. While the house has nods to vintage style throughout, the open-plan kitchen and living area allows for both contemporary living and entertaining. We were able to capture their daughter’s vision and the home was completed on time for her big day. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

This natural oak parquet flooring captures timeless elegance and traditional artistry in the home. Skip along the design’s rich honey tones and striking details, captured in petite blocks that can be laid in a variety of patterns. The oak’s texture is defined by careful brushing and the surface enthused with a chic satin sheen that provides long-lasting protection.

The Home The Elbert, named after a Colorado fourteener, is designed in the modern farmhouse style with an open concept that creates a welcoming feeling. The two-story entry light compliments the incredible view of Pikes Peak. The main level includes a gourmet kitchen open to the great room, dining room and study. The master suite is an owner’s delight with a separate seating area that opens to a spa-like master bathroom. Moving up a level will reveal one of JS Homes’ specialties. Utilizing often overlooked space, we bring our East Coast influences to the Colorado Springs market by using the attic for additional living space without adding another floor. This results in higher roof lines and a majestic appearance. Two bedrooms, a bathroom and a bonus room will be a delight for the kids in the family. The ten-foot ceiling in the lower-level was designed with entertaining in mind. Two bedrooms, a shared bath and an exercise room complete the ensemble. Building within Flying Horse North, we were able to incorporate unique materials including stucco, barnwood, stone and pre-finished western red cedar. JS Homes is proud to present The Elbert. The Builder Building homes for over 10 years, Jeff and Sonja Cole have been gifted to create a company that listens to our clients’ needs and desires and strives to capture those visions in their creations. Before becoming a home builder, Jeff was an interior trim carpenter specializing in new custom homes in the Denver and East Coast markets. This gave him a unique perspective on space and design. Jeff stays current with the changing plans and movements in home design by attending national shows and following contemporary design trends. Sonja takes the lead on interior design, plan review and draw coordination, in addition to being the REALTOR® who makes all our transactions possible. We are blessed to have an incredible staff of trade partners and vendors who are willing to spend time on our projects. Without them we would not be JS Homes Inc. The Interior Design This Flying Horse North lot was a perfect setting for The Elbert, a modern farmhouse. From the moment you walk through the front door, your sightline is drawn to the incredible Pikes Peak view. We sought to capture the large space by blending a mix of different materials and textures. Superior craftsmanship incorporates a mixture of materials, from knotty alder and walnut on the main level, to hickory and quarter-sawn oak elsewhere, creating a rich and rewarding feel. Luxe granites complimented by beautiful tile work add depth and movement in many areas of the house — creating a refined feeling. Working with Jessica Brown of La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries, we designed a palette of colors, patterns and rich textures to enhance and compliment the interior finishes. A mixture of grays, blues and whites provides a timeless, fresh and family friendly environment that makes The Elbert a sanctuary for entertaining and relaxing.

Travel is more than just the act of going from one place to another; it’s an exploration of new perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, the journey holds the power to change you in unexpected ways. Exoticca Helps a lot to Travel. 1. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination Too often, we focus on reaching the destination, ticking off items on our travel bucket list. But some of the most memorable moments in travel happen when we slow down and engage with the world around us. Take time to walk through a bustling market, share a meal with a local family, or simply sit on a beach at sunset. These moments allow us to experience the true essence of a place beyond its landmarks. 2. Travel with Purpose In today’s fast-paced world, many travelers are seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences. Whether it’s volunteering in a foreign country, participating in eco-tourism, or learning a new skill, travel can be a gateway to personal growth. Traveling with purpose adds value to your journey and ensures that it impacts not only you but the places you visit. Volunteering in a community, helping preserve nature, or supporting local artisans can leave you with a sense of accomplishment and connection to the world. 3. The Magic of Cultural Immersion One of the best ways to travel is to truly immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting. Skip the tourist traps and spend time in local neighborhoods. Try the street food, learn a few words in the local language, and embrace local traditions. The more you engage with the culture, the richer your experience will be. This immersion leads to a greater understanding and respect for different ways of life, fostering deeper connections between people across the globe. 4. Sustainable Travel: A Responsibility for the Future As travelers, we must recognize the impact our journeys can have on the environment. Sustainable travel practices are becoming more essential than ever before. From reducing plastic usage to supporting eco-friendly accommodations, there are many ways to ensure that our travels leave a positive legacy. Before your trip, research sustainable activities, respect wildlife, and consider how your visit affects local ecosystems. This mindset not only protects the planet but enhances your overall travel experience by aligning it with a purpose. 5. Travel Challenges: Growth Through Adversity It’s not always smooth sailing. Missed flights, language barriers, unexpected weather, or cultural misunderstandings can make travel seem daunting. However, these challenges can also offer some of the most rewarding experiences. Overcoming adversity while traveling encourages adaptability, patience, and resilience. These moments allow you to connect more deeply with yourself and the world, turning what could be a frustrating experience into an unforgettable lesson in growth. 6. Rediscovering Yourself Through Travel The act of leaving behind your daily routine and exploring new places often leads to self-reflection. Away from the distractions of everyday life, you have space to reconnect with yourself. Whether it’s finding peace in nature, discovering a new passion, or challenging your comfort zone, travel is a powerful tool for self-discovery. Many travelers report feeling more energized, inspired, and aware of their true desires after a meaningful journey. 7. Tips for a Seamless Travel Experience To make the most of your travels, planning is key. Here are a few tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey: Research your destination: Learn about the local culture, customs, and etiquette to show respect and avoid misunderstandings. Pack smart: Pack light and include only essentials to keep your travels stress-free. A good travel bag and comfortable shoes are a must! Stay flexible: Sometimes, plans go awry. Stay adaptable and be open to spontaneous adventures. Engage with locals: The best recommendations often come from those who live in the area. Don't be afraid to ask for tips or hidden gems. Capture memories: While it’s important to live in the moment, capturing photos or journaling your experiences can help you relive your journey long after it ends. 8. The Future of Travel: Trends to Watch As we look to the future, the way we travel is evolving. Virtual reality and AI are changing the way we plan and experience destinations, allowing for more personalized and immersive adventures. Moreover, the rise of wellness travel is focusing on mental and physical health, with more travelers seeking destinations that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. Regardless of how travel continues to evolve, the spirit of discovery and connection will always remain at the heart of every journey. Conclusion: Traveling for a Better World Travel is a transformative experience that connects us to the world, broadens our understanding, and enriches our lives. By approaching travel with an open mind, a sense of responsibility, and a desire for authentic experiences, we not only enhance our journeys but contribute to the global community. As you pack your bags for your next adventure, remember that every step you take is an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more interconnected world.

MEDITERRANEAN, TRADITIONAL, CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES, MALIBU, CALABASAS, SANTA MONICA, THOUSAND OAKS, SHERMAN OAKS, WEST HILLS, PACIFIC PALISADES, NORTH RANCH, AGOURA, AGOURA HILLS, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, SUCCULENTS, ECLECTIC, OAK PARK, DECOMPOSED GRANITE, AUSTRALIAN PLANTS, CALIFORNIA NATIVE, CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANTS, SUSTAINABLE, RAIN CAPTURE, SOIL HEALTH, RUSTIC, ENGLISH GARDEN, DROUGHT TOLERANT, DROUGHT RESISTANT, LAWN REMOVAL, WATER CONSERVATION, WATER CONSERVING, WATERWISE, LOW MAINTENANCE, CLIMATE, FRONT YARD, BACK YARD, BACKYARD, PATIO, POOL, SOUTHWESTERN, ASIAN, WALKWAY, SUCCULENT POTS, GRAVEL, EDIBLE, LANDSCAPE, POOL, GARDEN, GARDEN DESIGN, SUCCULENT GARDEN, SUCCULENT POTS, REBATE, SUCCULENT WALL, LIVING WALL, DRAFTING, HARDSCAPE, HARDSCAPING, LIGHTING, FOUNTAIN, WATER FEATURE, LOW WATER, DRIP IRRIGATION, FIRE PIT, SANTA BARBARA, OXNARD, VENTURA,

The owners of this classic mountain home wanted a front door and interior entry doors that captured the sylvan mood of their surroundings while giving their new home personality and softness. We designed and sourced stained glass mountains and outdoors that encapsulate this magnificent home. The montage of imagery captures the imagination as you walk in the front door and leaves you with a feeling of home and wholesomeness as you exit into the outdoors.

Originally built in 1892, this quaint log cabin has undergone a transformative renovation while preserving its charming character. Located near the Little Deschutes River in Central Oregon, within the historic Vandert Homestead, the home now boasts bright, open spaces for everyday living, complete with flexible aluminum clad folding doors. Working alongside contractor Bales Inc., architect Jeff Klein from Klein Architecture led the renovation with the goal of opening the once dark interior to natural light and the surrounding landscape. Central to the design was transforming a deteriorating garage into a new functional sunroom, creating a light-filled space that reorients the cabin design toward the patio and natural environment. Restoring a Historic Cabin with Aluminum Clad Folding Doors outdoor living with aluminum clad folding door A Revamped Cabin Design for Indoor-Outdoor Living The former garage is now a transitional space between the cabin and a natural stone patio. Positioned along the south elevation, the sunroom captures daylight throughout the day while acting as a buffer between the interior and exterior environments. A revised roof assembly was developed to resolve previous drainage failures. Working with framers, the design team incorporated a sloping roof system with a waterproof membrane to direct water away from the structure. This approach not only protected the log walls but also created access to a rooftop deck from the upper level, adding functional outdoor space without expanding the building footprint. “It was also critical to transform the existing dark, segmented interior spaces by physically opening them up to the new sunroom,” says Klein. “NanaWall systems offered the ideal solution for what we were after.” historical homestead interior Improving Spatial Flow, From the Kitchen to the Sunroom The kitchen remained largely intact during the renovation, retaining many of the elements that had defined the cabin’s character for decades. Features such as the farmhouse sink, concrete countertops, butcher-block island, and built-in seating were retained, creating a perfect blend of old and new. What changed was how the kitchen connects to the surrounding rooms. The layout now flows naturally into an adjacent dining area before extending into the newly added sunroom, delivering a seamless transition from the interiors to the outdoors through aluminum clad folding doors. Historic log cabin with clad folding doors and windows A Light-Filled Sunroom Designed for Gatherings with Aluminum Clad Windows and Doors The newly added sunroom became the centerpiece of the cabin design. Designed as a bright, welcoming space, it connects the historic cabin to the natural stone patio beyond. Interior designer Sue Olson helped create the room's atmosphere by choosing finishes and furnishings that complement the cabin's rustic materials while keeping the space open and inviting. The sunroom captures sunlight throughout the day and serves as a flexible space for dining, relaxing, and entertaining. The addition was designed to sit comfortably alongside the existing log structure while introducing expansive glazing and aluminum clad folding doors that draw daylight deep into the home. NanaWall aluminum clad folding doors and windows Aluminum Clad Folding Doors Open the Sunroom to the Patio A NanaWall aluminum clad folding glass door opens the south wall of the sunroom, creating a direct connection to the natural stone patio. Spanning more than thirteen feet wide and nearly eight feet tall, the system allows the entire façade to open when the panels are folded back. Specified with pine wood frames and simulated divided lites, the door complements the cabin’s traditional materials while introducing the flexibility of modern indoor-outdoor living. When closed, the door frames the view while bringing daylight into the sunroom. When open, the space seamlessly flows into the patio. Plus, customized with double glazed panels, these aluminum clad systems offer an insulated barrier that keeps cold weather out and keeps comfortable interiors year-round. “The NanaWall system was the ideal solution for the proposed design,” says Klein. “The result is a seamless connection between the sheltered interior area and the openness of the outdoor environment.” aluminum clad folding windows A Folding Window Creates an Indoor-Outdoor Bar Complementing the folding door and indoor-outdoor cabin design, a NanaWall aluminum clad folding window was installed at bar height along the sunroom wall facing the patio. Stretching more than thirteen feet across and just over four feet in height, the opening transforms the wall into a casual indoor-outdoor serving counter. Specified with matching pine wood frames and simulated divided lites, the system folds away easily, creating an indoor-outdoor bar that encourages interaction between the sunroom and patio. When open, the counter becomes a flexible gathering point for meals, drinks, and conversation, allowing those inside and outside to share the space comfortably. “The NanaWall door and window systems played a pivotal role in achieving our design objectives,” says Klein. “The connection between the indoor and outdoor environment has become seamless.” inoor-outdoor living with clad folding windows and doors The Flexible Design Solution for Every Home Style Beyond creating large openings, the NanaWall aluminum clad folding doors were chosen for how well they integrate with the cabin’s traditional architecture while delivering modern functionality. The wood clad panels, specified with simulated divided lites, reflect the style and charm of classic window detailing, while panels that fold outward maximize usable space inside the cabin. Minimal frames maximize glass area, drawing natural light deeper into the sunroom and adjacent spaces. Paired with higher weather performance sills, the systems are built to withstand the region’s climate while allowing the sunroom to shift easily between a sheltered interior space and an open-air extension of the patio. Additionally, NanaWall aluminum clad systems feature clip-on cladding technology that allows the wood to breathe in environments where temperatures are extremely hot, humid, or cold. This, in turn, aligns with the renovation’s goal of resolving prior drainage and moisture issues. outdoor living with NanaWall aluminum clad systems Final Thoughts: Historic Cabin Design Reimagined for Modern Living Today, the Vandevert Homestead perfectly blends old-time charm with modern living. The renovation maintains the historic character of the original log structure while introducing brighter, more connected spaces that better engage with the surrounding landscape. With the transformation of the garage into a light-filled sunroom and flexible NanaWall aluminum clad folding doors, everyday living now flows naturally between the kitchen, dining area, sunroom, and patio. The result is a cabin that feels both timeless and renewed, where historic craftsmanship remains intact while the home experience is lighter, more open, and closely tied to the natural beauty of Central Oregon.

Willie & Leslie of Barrington Hills loved the location of their home. Its breathtaking views overlooked a wooded backyard and a captivating lake. They didn’t want to move, but they needed more space. But the house was missing that big family room where everyone could gather, relax and converse, and the house was completely cut off visually from the beautiful outdoor view right outside! They knew what they wanted meant building an addition to their home. They began searching the internet and came across Advance Design Studio, and after browsing through project after project and reading one outstanding client review after another, they were sold on Advance Design. Additionally, they loved Advance Design’s “Common Sense Remodeling” process and felt confident that it would allow the Design/Build company to easily coordinate the multiple projects they wanted to complete all at one time. Willie and Leslie immediately set up a meeting with Owner Todd Jurs and Project Designer Claudia Pop. When the meeting ended, they were sure that Advance Design were the right people and the right approach for their project. "Establishing a direction and a budget is always key in project of this size," Todd said. "This house was screaming for a family room and it didn't have one. Ultimately, it's about working together towards the same goal of a beautiful functional addition." The project consisted of a significant family room addition with an extraordinary vaulted ceiling and floor to ceiling fireplace, a guest suite renovation with a luxury bath, a garage addition, and an adjoining outdoor patio renovation complete with a fantastic built in grilling station. The main goal was to add comfort and space to the existing home that would last their lifetime, and finally allow them to capture the amazing view of the backyard and lake that they never could really enjoy previously. Willie, Leslie and Claudia paid special attention to designing the space to make sure that the footprint of the room did not interfere with the views. Floor to ceiling Pella windows were incorporated into a spectacular window wall to provide plenty of natural light. Vaulted ceilings gave the room a bigger feel and the stunning floor to ceiling masonry fireplace was designed giving the room a rustic, comfortable feel of a Colorado Lodge. Barnwood doors and exposed wooden beams accentuate the crackling fireplace and family gathering space. An oversized statement chandelier bathes the space in soft light once the sun sets and compliments the exposed wood and fireplace perfectly. “It simple elegant and beautiful,” Designer Claudia Pop said. “It is a great family room that captures the views perfectly. They love the fireplace, the barndoors and the openness of the space we designed for the whole family now to enjoy.” And when warm weather beckons, the outdoor patio is a terrific place to spend an evening. The family now enjoys fall nights in front of their outdoor fireplace overlooking the quiet lake. Dekton Trillium Quartz counters tops adorn an amazing grilling bar. Nearly indestructible, they are the only manufactured stone product designed exclusively to withstand high heat in summer and extreme cold temperatures in winter. The guest bath renovation makes Willie and Leslie’s friends and family feel like they are staying at a 5-star hotel. Carlisle colored Maple cabinets from Medallion make a roomy dual vanity more than adequate with plenty of space to get ready for the day after a peaceful night’s sleep. Cambria Quartz countertops are durable and elegant, while contrasting the neutral cabinets flawlessly. Heated flooring from Warmly Yours is the cherry on top for this cozy guest bath. All the projects turned out better than they even imagined. Willie and Leslie now have a spacious family room with even better views of the lake and woods, a much larger garage, a fantastic relaxing outdoor patio, and a guest bath that makes it almost impossible to get the guest to leave after their stay. Are you thinking about a remodeling project? Talk to the experts at Advance Design about the renovation of your dreams. Now is the perfect time to renovate. Check out other amazing projects here. With “Common Sense Remodeling”, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-836-2600 or schedule an appointment to talk with us about your kitchen remodeling project, or any other home renovation you are planning. Our talented team can help you design and build the new space you’ve been dreaming about.

This new 1,700 sf two-story single family residence for a young couple required a minimum of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, packaged to fit unobtrusively in an older low-key residential neighborhood. The house is located on a small non-conforming lot. In order to get the maximum out of this small footprint, we virtually eliminated areas such as hallways to capture as much living space. We made the house feel larger by giving the ground floor higher ceilings, provided ample natural lighting, captured elongated sight lines out of view windows, and used outdoor areas as extended living spaces. To help the building be a “good neighbor,” we set back the house on the lot to minimize visual volume, creating a friendly, social semi-public front porch. We designed with multiple step-back levels to create an intimacy in scale. The garage is on one level, the main house is on another higher level. The upper floor is set back even further to reduce visual impact. By designing a single car garage with exterior tandem parking, we minimized the amount of yard space taken up with parking. The landscaping and permeable cobblestone walkway up to the house serves double duty as part of the city required parking space. The final building solution incorporated a variety of significant cost saving features, including a floor plan that made the most of the natural topography of the site and allowed access to utilities’ crawl spaces. We avoided expensive excavation by using slab on grade at the ground floor. Retaining walls also doubled as building walls.

MEDITERRANEAN, TRADITIONAL, CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES, MALIBU, CALABASAS, SANTA MONICA, THOUSAND OAKS, SHERMAN OAKS, WEST HILLS, PACIFIC PALISADES, NORTH RANCH, AGOURA, AGOURA HILLS, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, SUCCULENTS, ECLECTIC, OAK PARK, DECOMPOSED GRANITE, AUSTRALIAN PLANTS, CALIFORNIA NATIVE, CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANTS, SUSTAINABLE, RAIN CAPTURE, SOIL HEALTH, RUSTIC, ENGLISH GARDEN, DROUGHT TOLERANT, DROUGHT RESISTANT, LAWN REMOVAL, WATER CONSERVATION, WATER CONSERVING, WATERWISE, LOW MAINTENANCE, CLIMATE, FRONT YARD, BACK YARD, BACKYARD, PATIO, POOL, SOUTHWESTERN, ASIAN, WALKWAY, SUCCULENT POTS, GRAVEL, EDIBLE, LANDSCAPE, POOL, GARDEN, GARDEN DESIGN, SUCCULENT GARDEN, SUCCULENT POTS, REBATE, SUCCULENT WALL, LIVING WALL, DRAFTING, HARDSCAPE, HARDSCAPING, LIGHTING, FOUNTAIN, WATER FEATURE, LOW WATER, DRIP IRRIGATION, FIRE PIT, SANTA BARBARA, OXNARD, VENTURA,

After returning from a winter trip to discover his house had been flooded by a burst second-floor pipe, this homeowner was ready to address the renovations and additions that he had been pondering for about a decade. It was important to him to respect the original character of the c. +/- 1910 two-bedroom small home that had been in his family for years, while re-imagining the kitchen and flow. In response, KHS proposed a one-story addition, recalling an enclosed porch, which springs from the front roof line and then wraps the house to the north. An informal front dining space, complete with built-in banquette, occupies the east end of the addition behind large double-hung windows sized to match those on the original house, and a new kitchen occupies the west end of the addition behind smaller casement windows at counter height. New French doors to the rear allow the owner greater access to an outdoor room edged by the house to the east, the existing one-car garage to the south, and a rear rock wall to the west. Much of the lot to the north was left open for the owner’s annual summer volley ball party. The first-floor was then reconfigured, capturing additional interior space from a recessed porch on the rear, to create a rear mudroom entrance hall, full bath, and den, which could someday function as a third bedroom if needed. Upstairs, a rear shed dormer was extended to the north and east so that head room could be increased, rendering more of the owner’s office/second bedroom usable. Windows and doors were relocated as necessary to better serve the new plan and to capture more daylight. Having expanded from its original 1100 square feet to approximately 1700 square feet, it’s still a small, sweet house – only freshly updated, and with a hint of porchiness. Photos by Katie Hutchison

Description: In early 1994, the architects began work on the project and while in construction (demolition, grading and foundations) the owner, due to circumstances beyond his control, halted all construction of the project. Seven years later the owner returned to the architects and asked them to complete the partially constructed house. Due to code changes, city ordinances and a wide variety of obstacles it was determined that the house was unable to be completed as originally designed. After much consideration the client asked the architect if it were possible to alter/remodel the partially constructed house, which was a remodel/addition to a 1970’s ranch style house, into a project that fit into current zoning and structural codes. The owner also requested that the house’s footprint and partially constructed foundations remain to avoid the need for further entitlements and delays on an already long overdue and difficult hillside site. The architects’ main challenge was how to alter the design that reflected an outdated philosophical approach to architecture that was nearly a decade old. How could the house be re-conceived reflecting the architect and client’s maturity on a ten-year-old footprint? The answer was to remove almost all of the previously proposed existing interior walls and transform the existing footprint into a pavilion-like structure that allows the site to in a sense “pass through the house”. This allowed the client to take better advantage of a limited and restricted building area while capturing extraordinary panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley and Hollywood Hills. Large 22-foot high custom sliding glass doors allow the interior and exterior to become one. Even the studio is separated from the house and connected only by an exterior bridge. Private spaces are treated as loft-like spaces capturing volume and views while maintaining privacy. Limestone floors extend from inside to outside and into the lap pool that runs the entire length of the house creating a horizon line at the edge of the view. Other natural materials such as board formed concrete, copper, steel and cherry provides softness to the objects that seem to float within the interior volume. By placing objects and materials "outside the frame," a new frame of reference deepens our sense of perception. Art does not reproduce what we see; rather it makes us see.

Boring walls? Not on our watch! At Jessie’s Home, we turn blank spaces into breathtaking scenes with high-quality canvas wall art, perfect for modern homes and stylish spaces. Our specialty? Skyline canvas prints that capture the beauty, energy, and character of iconic cities around the world — especially the one and only New York City. Whether you’re a city lover, a frequent flyer, or just someone who wants your walls to have a little more “wow,” our collection has something for you. Think sweeping skylines, golden sunsets behind skyscrapers, and night scenes that sparkle just right. These aren’t just prints — they’re conversation starters. Why Choose Jessie's Home? At jessieshome.com, we focus entirely on canvas wall art. That means: ✅ Premium quality: Durable canvas, vibrant colors, fade-resistant ink. ✅ Ready to hang: No tools or headaches needed — just unwrap and go. ✅ Stylish variety: From bold and colorful to sleek and minimalist. Our New York City Skyline Canvas is a customer favorite — capturing the city’s iconic skyline in all its glory. Want something calm and moody for your bedroom? Or a dramatic statement piece for your living room or office? We've got you covered. Style That Fits Any Room Canvas wall art is the easiest way to transform a space. A large skyline piece instantly gives your room depth, drama, and personality. Whether you’re decorating a brand-new apartment or just looking to spice things up, a cityscape adds just the right amount of edge and elegance. Simple, Fast & Friendly ? Quick, secure shipping ? Safe, smooth checkout ? Friendly customer support Plus, you’re supporting a passionate small business that puts heart into every order. Let your walls reflect your style, your travels, and your love for design. Shop now at jessieshome.com and bring home the skyline!

The Goldenwood Guest House is the first phase of a larger estate multi-phase project with the clients are moving into the renovated guest house as we start construction on the main house renovation and addition soon. This is a whole-house renovation to an existing 750sf guest cottage settled near the existing main residence. The property is located West of Austin in Driftwood, TX and the cottage strives to capture a sense of refined roughness. The layout maximizes efficiency in the small space with built-in cabinet storage and shelving in the living room and kitchen. Each space is softly day lit and the open floor plan of the Living, Dining, and Kitchen allows the spaces to feel expansive without sacrificing privacy to the bedroom and restroom. Photo by Ryan Farnau. See our video walk-through: The Goldenwood Guest House is the first phase of a larger estate multi-phase project with the clients are moving into the renovated guest house as we start construction on the main house renovation and addition soon. This is a whole-house renovation to an existing 750sf guest cottage settled near the existing main residence. The property is located West of Austin in Driftwood, TX and the cottage strives to capture a sense of refined roughness. The layout maximizes efficiency in the small space with built-in cabinet storage and shelving in the living room and kitchen. Each space is softly day lit and the open floor plan of the Living, Dining, and Kitchen allows the spaces to feel expansive without sacrificing privacy to the bedroom and restroom. Photo by Ryan Farnau. See our video walk-through: http://youtu.be/lx9wTAm7J-8

A modern spa-like basement bathroom captures all of the amenities within a smaller scaled space. Designed to capture all of the features found in a spa, the steam shower, sauna, floor warming, and lighting sets the mood for a relaxing journey right a home.

We designed a “tree house” suspended above the ground on glued-laminated timber columns supporting two stories, forty feet above the forest floor. Suquamish means “place of clear water”. The care of the land that drove this residence included simple strategies for capturing rain and percolating storm water, minimal excavation and removal of soils, low-impact concrete foundations, and a light structure that captures views of the forest, water, and a distant Seattle skyline to the east.