Nestled in an undeveloped thicket between two homes on Monmouth road, the Eastern corner of this client’s lot plunges ten feet downward into a city-designated stormwater collection ravine. Our client challenged us to design a home, referencing the Scandinavian modern style, that would account for this lot’s unique terrain and vegetation. Through iterative design, we produced four house forms angled to allow rainwater to naturally flow off of the roof and into a gravel-lined runoff area that drains into the ravine. Completely foregoing downspouts and gutters, the chosen design reflects the site’s topography, its mass changing in concert with the slope of the land. This two-story home is oriented around a central stacked staircase that descends into the basement and ascends to a second floor master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. The main entrance—a triangular form subtracted from this home’s rectangular plan—opens to a kitchen and living space anchored with an oversized kitchen island. On the far side of the living space, a solid void form projects towards the backyard, referencing the entryway without mirroring it. Ground floor amenities include a bedroom, full bathroom, laundry area, office and attached garage. Among Architecture Office’s most conceptually rigorous projects, exterior windows are isolated to opportunities where natural light and a connection to the outdoors is desired. The Monmouth home is clad in black corrugated metal, its exposed foundations extending from the earth to highlight its form. Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2020.

Most of our projects are completed in residential areas ranging from rural to suburban, but we occasionally have an opportunity to do work in the heart of a metropolitan space. This project represents one such opportunity. Sunspace Design was tasked with the construction of a gorgeous, private greenhouse in the center of Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, and we’re thrilled to show you the results. The project required the introduction of a brick greenhouse foundation and granite cap. The structure was framed on top of this in black, powder-coated aluminum, and eventually outfitted with large glass panes. An additional ridge crest gives the Victorian structure provides an amazing silhouette. A number of great features warrant mentioning. The project includes motorized, thermostatically controlled ridge vents and a full HVAC split system to ensure top thermal performance. The client’s ease of operation was also addressed via the installation of remote controlled shades. Smoked privacy glass in the rear of the structure offers some solitude, and a mirage window wall with accordion doors at the front of the structure blend beauty and functionality.

Large elegant backyard stone shade patio photo for summer with a fire pit

A tiny Cambridge garden was a blank slate after renovation of the house which needed foundation overhaul, leaving the site barren and criss-crossed with utilities, easements, and constraints. The client needed basement access, trash and bike storage, utility access, a private sitting area in the rear with access to the kitchen, and temporary parking which needed to be partially hidden from the road per neighborhood guidelines. We employed several small space strategies to shoehorn this complex program into a very small city lot, proving once again that there are no small projects. Columnar trees provide a scrim that brings the tall house into scale with the narrow walkway to the rear neighbor. Tight hedging provides a low privacy screen for the sitting area. Small statured evergreens for the corner of the lot and to screen utilities but ensure that mature growth will not overtake the space. A layered corner planting provides year round interest and seasonal color. Dry shade perennials keep water use down and protect the basement from foundation planting overwatering. A team of skilled artisans helped with various aspects of the job, including stonework by Christophe Peter Stonework, planting by ZEN Associates, Inc., Fence and carpentry by McDonough Fence, trash enclosure by The Carpentry Shop Co., General Contracting by Jonny Clifford of White Sands Construction Company, outside paint color and house light fixtures by Phillip Miller, Metal work by Joseph Mirabile, Maintenance by ZEN Associates, Inc.

Sunday, June 28, 3:30 to 5:00pm | Potomac, MD Family Retreat by Lila Fendrick and Doug Stookey of Lila Fendrick Landscape Architecture and Garden Design The landscape architects incorporated an adjoining lot to create this delightful family retreat where the clients spend time with their two sons growing vegetables, swimming, playing in splash pools, soaking in the hot tub, hiding in a below-grade fort, and running through a maze of paths formed by towering shrubs. The height differential between the owner’s house and the crest of the new lot presented opportunities for linking the two lots. The landscape architect designed dramatic lawn steps up to the new pool and pool house complex, designing tiers of waterfalls around a sunken spa, terracing the site with playfully hidden paths, and concealing a lower level parking area and garage. The project uses locally sourced Western Maryland stone on the pool house/guest house and Delaware River Jacks for the pebble paving. Utah-sourced quartzite-sandstone boulders reflect the clients’ appreciation for rugged western American landscapes. The variety of materials, linked by color and texture, and the unusual programming create a place of retreat and fun that feels far from the typical Washington, DC, area backyard. Photo by Gordon Beall

Most of our projects are completed in residential areas ranging from rural to suburban, but we occasionally have an opportunity to do work in the heart of a metropolitan space. This project represents one such opportunity. Sunspace Design was tasked with the construction of a gorgeous, private greenhouse in the center of Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, and we’re thrilled to show you the results. The project required the introduction of a brick greenhouse foundation and granite cap. The structure was framed on top of this in black, powder-coated aluminum, and eventually outfitted with large glass panes. An additional ridge crest gives the Victorian structure provides an amazing silhouette. A number of great features warrant mentioning. The project includes motorized, thermostatically controlled ridge vents and a full HVAC split system to ensure top thermal performance. The client’s ease of operation was also addressed via the installation of remote controlled shades. Smoked privacy glass in the rear of the structure offers some solitude, and a mirage window wall with accordion doors at the front of the structure blend beauty and functionality.

Sunday, June 28, 3:30 to 5:00pm | Potomac, MD Family Retreat by Lila Fendrick and Doug Stookey of Lila Fendrick Landscape Architecture and Garden Design The landscape architects incorporated an adjoining lot to create this delightful family retreat where the clients spend time with their two sons growing vegetables, swimming, playing in splash pools, soaking in the hot tub, hiding in a below-grade fort, and running through a maze of paths formed by towering shrubs. The height differential between the owner’s house and the crest of the new lot presented opportunities for linking the two lots. The landscape architect designed dramatic lawn steps up to the new pool and pool house complex, designing tiers of waterfalls around a sunken spa, terracing the site with playfully hidden paths, and concealing a lower level parking area and garage. The project uses locally sourced Western Maryland stone on the pool house/guest house and Delaware River Jacks for the pebble paving. Utah-sourced quartzite-sandstone boulders reflect the clients’ appreciation for rugged western American landscapes. The variety of materials, linked by color and texture, and the unusual programming create a place of retreat and fun that feels far from the typical Washington, DC, area backyard. Photo by Gordon Beall

Natural, calm, family-centered. This client knew what she wanted and just needed some assistance getting there. Susan helped her out with imagery and product research, a first floor furniture plan and several working meetings to nail down the built-in functionality and look in the dining-room-turned-office/family drop-zone. Cork floors installed throughout give the home a warm and eco-friendly foundation. Pine-cones, tree trunk cookies, plants and lots of unstained wood make the family's focus on nature clear. The result: a beautiful and light-filled but relaxed and practical family space. Carpenter/Contractor: Sam Dennis From the client: We hired Susan to assist with a downstairs remodel. She brings a personalization that feels like getting advice from a family member at the same time adding helpful details of her industry knowledge. Her flexibly in work style allows her to come with plans fully researched and developed or to advise, plan and draw on the spot. She has been willing to do as much as we needed or to let us roll with our own ideas and time frame and consult with her as needed.

Our clients already had a cottage on Torch Lake that they loved to visit. It was a 1960s ranch that worked just fine for their needs. However, the lower level walkout became entirely unusable due to water issues. After purchasing the lot next door, they hired us to design a new cottage. Our first task was to situate the home in the center of the two parcels to maximize the view of the lake while also accommodating a yard area. Our second task was to take particular care to divert any future water issues. We took necessary precautions with design specifications to water proof properly, establish foundation and landscape drain tiles / stones, set the proper elevation of the home per ground water height and direct the water flow around the home from natural grade / drive. Our final task was to make appealing, comfortable, living spaces with future planning at the forefront. An example of this planning is placing a master suite on both the main level and the upper level. The ultimate goal of this home is for it to one day be at least a 3/4 of the year home and designed to be a multi-generational heirloom. - Jacqueline Southby Photography

Sunday, June 28, 3:30 to 5:00pm | Potomac, MD Family Retreat by Lila Fendrick and Doug Stookey of Lila Fendrick Landscape Architecture and Garden Design The landscape architects incorporated an adjoining lot to create this delightful family retreat where the clients spend time with their two sons growing vegetables, swimming, playing in splash pools, soaking in the hot tub, hiding in a below-grade fort, and running through a maze of paths formed by towering shrubs. The height differential between the owner’s house and the crest of the new lot presented opportunities for linking the two lots. The landscape architect designed dramatic lawn steps up to the new pool and pool house complex, designing tiers of waterfalls around a sunken spa, terracing the site with playfully hidden paths, and concealing a lower level parking area and garage. The project uses locally sourced Western Maryland stone on the pool house/guest house and Delaware River Jacks for the pebble paving. Utah-sourced quartzite-sandstone boulders reflect the clients’ appreciation for rugged western American landscapes. The variety of materials, linked by color and texture, and the unusual programming create a place of retreat and fun that feels far from the typical Washington, DC, area backyard. Photo by Gordon Beall

Specializing in Kitchen and Bath Renovations, Basement Re-modelling and General Construction and Design, Goldenline Remodeling has the expertise to get the job done right the first time. There are many good contractors in and around LA; however, there are few that share the same passion as we do when it comes to our customers. In fact, it’s our value added service that’s been the foundation for our growth in this industry and continues to make us stand out against our competition. Whether you are looking at a major renovation or just updating your home or rental property, Goldenline Remodeling has the expertise to help make your next project a success. We are top tradespeople, meticulously trained to be extremely customer-focused and ensuring that each contractor is able to provide the highest level of service and expertise to clients. When you hire Goldenline Remodeling for your renovation project, you can rest assured our commitment to quality, integrity and service will be reflected in our work.

This South Shore of Boston client approached the team of Renovisions to remodel her existing basement bathroom. This bath, with an outdated fiberglass shower stall was cracked and leaking into the concrete floor below. The room had inadequate storage, was dark and did not boost this home’s overall market value. It was definitely time for a Renovision and the client was excited to get started! She was looking forward to sharing the new space with guests that stay at her home and use the bathroom often. Working alongside this client was fun and productive as great design and product choices were selected together. In the design process, Renovisions presented a unique idea; using the basement foundation ledge for a shelf that ran into the shower area, gaining extra space for shampoos and soaps, eliminating the need for a niche. Another great idea was to implement a Grohe Smart Control valve which brings this shower experience to another level; they can choose ways to spray with the right degree of warmth. The stunning stream-lined shower trims in brushed nickel finish match the style and finish on the single-lever vanity faucet. The contrasting dark grey, large format porcelain floor tile’s texture resembles a linen-look pattern the client requested while complimenting the darker veining in the quartz curb, shelf and vanity countertop. The Carrera-look porcelain shower wall tiles boast no-maintenance and provides a clean, brighter appeal seen through the beautiful custom shower glass enclosure. We lightened up the bath with a light blue paint color which added a fresh look, giving the illusion of a bigger space. As you can see, with the right colors, textures and accessories, we transformed this basement bath from Drab to Fab. The client was thrilled with her basement Renovision, a true Breath of Fresh Flair’!

We love it when a home becomes a family compound with wonderful history. That is exactly what this home on Mullet Lake is. The original cottage was built by our client’s father and enjoyed by the family for years. It finally came to the point that there was simply not enough room and it lacked some of the efficiencies and luxuries enjoyed in permanent residences. The cottage is utilized by several families and space was needed to allow for summer and holiday enjoyment. The focus was on creating additional space on the second level, increasing views of the lake, moving interior spaces and the need to increase the ceiling heights on the main level. All these changes led for the need to start over or at least keep what we could and add to it. The home had an excellent foundation, in more ways than one, so we started from there. It was important to our client to create a northern Michigan cottage using low maintenance exterior finishes. The interior look and feel moved to more timber beam with pine paneling to keep the warmth and appeal of our area. The home features 2 master suites, one on the main level and one on the 2nd level with a balcony. There are 4 additional bedrooms with one also serving as an office. The bunkroom provides plenty of sleeping space for the grandchildren. The great room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of seating and a stone fireplace with vast windows toward the lake. The kitchen and dining are open to each other and enjoy the view. The beach entry provides access to storage, the 3/4 bath, and laundry. The sunroom off the dining area is a great extension of the home with 180 degrees of view. This allows a wonderful morning escape to enjoy your coffee. The covered timber entry porch provides a direct view of the lake upon entering the home. The garage also features a timber bracketed shed roof system which adds wonderful detail to garage doors. The home’s footprint was extended in a few areas to allow for the interior spaces to work with the needs of the family. Plenty of living spaces for all to enjoy as well as bedrooms to rest their heads after a busy day on the lake. This will be enjoyed by generations to come.

My clients wanted a kitchen where they could gather together, prepare meals, and catch up on the latest news of the day. They had two children that wanted a space to do homework while grabbing a snack to eat. The scope of the project included a facelift for the cabinets, new dining table, chairs, countertop, backsplash, island, flooring, appliances, installing a range hood, lighting and barstools. My challenge was designing a kitchen that was functional, efficient and aesthetically pleasing while addressing the specific needs of my clients. We had a good foundation to work with but, the original kitchen was dated and needed an upgrade. We addressed the cabinets, floors, island and lighting first. We wanted to keep with the overall floorplan of the kitchen. The color palette we choose was a cool gray color scheme with warm wood accents. The custom island is a one-of-a-kind feature with an exotic granite slab. The island provides the best way to maximize the kitchen efficiency and storage capacity. Technology was also important addition in the kitchen so we installed smart technology and USB cable outlets. Lighting was another factor—under the counter lighting and in cabinet lighting was installed. In the end, my clients were very happy with the kitchen we designed for them.

Sunday, June 28, 3:30 to 5:00pm | Potomac, MD Family Retreat by Lila Fendrick and Doug Stookey of Lila Fendrick Landscape Architecture and Garden Design The landscape architects incorporated an adjoining lot to create this delightful family retreat where the clients spend time with their two sons growing vegetables, swimming, playing in splash pools, soaking in the hot tub, hiding in a below-grade fort, and running through a maze of paths formed by towering shrubs. The height differential between the owner’s house and the crest of the new lot presented opportunities for linking the two lots. The landscape architect designed dramatic lawn steps up to the new pool and pool house complex, designing tiers of waterfalls around a sunken spa, terracing the site with playfully hidden paths, and concealing a lower level parking area and garage. The project uses locally sourced Western Maryland stone on the pool house/guest house and Delaware River Jacks for the pebble paving. Utah-sourced quartzite-sandstone boulders reflect the clients’ appreciation for rugged western American landscapes. The variety of materials, linked by color and texture, and the unusual programming create a place of retreat and fun that feels far from the typical Washington, DC, area backyard. Photo by Gordon Beall

This formal dining room was in desperate need of an overall design plan. Our client wanted something unique and special. A round live edge dining table with a custom designed metal base was the foundation of the design. We were able to show our client the 3D concept renderings which enabled them to see the full vision of the room…sparking their love for the overall design. Beautiful gold upholstered chairs with acrylic legs surround the dining table. Acrylic accents continue in the drapery hardware, chandelier and buffet lamps to provide a soft modern feel. Original custom art pieces are the finishing touches for this luxurious space. This sleek formal dining room was photographed by Michael Hunter Photography

Sunday, June 28, 3:30 to 5:00pm | Potomac, MD Family Retreat by Lila Fendrick and Doug Stookey of Lila Fendrick Landscape Architecture and Garden Design The landscape architects incorporated an adjoining lot to create this delightful family retreat where the clients spend time with their two sons growing vegetables, swimming, playing in splash pools, soaking in the hot tub, hiding in a below-grade fort, and running through a maze of paths formed by towering shrubs. The height differential between the owner’s house and the crest of the new lot presented opportunities for linking the two lots. The landscape architect designed dramatic lawn steps up to the new pool and pool house complex, designing tiers of waterfalls around a sunken spa, terracing the site with playfully hidden paths, and concealing a lower level parking area and garage. The project uses locally sourced Western Maryland stone on the pool house/guest house and Delaware River Jacks for the pebble paving. Utah-sourced quartzite-sandstone boulders reflect the clients’ appreciation for rugged western American landscapes. The variety of materials, linked by color and texture, and the unusual programming create a place of retreat and fun that feels far from the typical Washington, DC, area backyard. Photo by Gordon Beall

Most of our projects are completed in residential areas ranging from rural to suburban, but we occasionally have an opportunity to do work in the heart of a metropolitan space. This project represents one such opportunity. Sunspace Design was tasked with the construction of a gorgeous, private greenhouse in the center of Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, and we’re thrilled to show you the results. The project required the introduction of a brick greenhouse foundation and granite cap. The structure was framed on top of this in black, powder-coated aluminum, and eventually outfitted with large glass panes. An additional ridge crest gives the Victorian structure provides an amazing silhouette. A number of great features warrant mentioning. The project includes motorized, thermostatically controlled ridge vents and a full HVAC split system to ensure top thermal performance. The client’s ease of operation was also addressed via the installation of remote controlled shades. Smoked privacy glass in the rear of the structure offers some solitude, and a mirage window wall with accordion doors at the front of the structure blend beauty and functionality.

design: Studio TOOP, 2011 location: Amersfoort, NL status: built in 2011, Tuinvreugd in combination with the client photos: Jolanthe Lalkens, 2014 When our clients bought this property the garden was filled with outbuildings that served as storage and cooling when the house once was a milk shop. Their first step was to tear down several of the buildings. The new deck is situated on the former foundation of one of the larger buildings. This space forms the heart of the garden. The benches that nearly surround it offer lots and lots of places to sit, so you can move as the sun and mood suit you. On the far side of the deck is raised bed that functions as a veggie garden. Situated 10 cm lower than the deck fine gravel (Nobre Cal) is used to make paths and seating areas surrounded by organically formed beds full of bright colored flowers. In the loose corner in the back of the garden there is a fire pit surrounded by low brick walls for seating. photos: Jolanthe Lalkens