Watermark Residence was conceived as a “downsizing” project for Owners looking to transition from the home where they raised their family to a simpler lifestyle. The footprint and exterior massing of the single family condo was prescribed, but MMA wove new details into these constraints and was urged by the Owner to completely reinvent the interior experience. From the exterior, the home sits subtly on a corner lot, referencing the neighborhood in its style, but with a warmth and crispness that speaks also to the interiors. The primary goal of the project was to provide an open, inviting atmosphere of connected spaces that allowed natural light into all areas of the home. Upon entry, there is an immediate involvement in the daily activities with the living and dining rooms being the focal point, and a more intimate kitchen slightly out of view. Throughout the home, the idea of privacy and transparency plays an important role in the organization of spaces and materials chosen. More private corridors lead to intimate bedroom spaces and functional laundry and mudrooms. A two-floor, semi-transparent slat wall shields direct visibility from the street, while also providing connection between the entertaining spaces of the home. Combined with the white oak, open staircase, the movement between levels feels intuitive and inviting. A simple palette of materials, understated in their appearance but detailed in their execution, are threaded throughout the home. Gathering spaces are represented with open slats, grounding brick, white oak, and bright walls. Movement deeper into the house brings refined slat panels with integrated hardware at kitchen millwork, softly painted cabinetry, and warm tones of walnut in furniture elements. The most private spaces of the home further extrude the slat element into fluted panels, painted in deeper colors.

View of the new exterior patio & seating area. The concrete retaining wall was conceived with a niche to preserve the lovely maple tree and frame the homeowner's manicured garden. Alex Hayden, 2013

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

Conceived more similar to a loft type space rather than a traditional single family home, the homeowner was seeking to challenge a normal arrangement of rooms in favor of spaces that are dynamic in all 3 dimensions, interact with the yard, and capture the movement of light and air. As an artist that explores the beauty of natural objects and scenes, she tasked us with creating a building that was not precious - one that explores the essence of its raw building materials and is not afraid of expressing them as finished. We designed opportunities for kinetic fixtures, many built by the homeowner, to allow flexibility and movement. The result is a building that compliments the casual artistic lifestyle of the occupant as part home, part work space, part gallery. The spaces are interactive, contemplative, and fun. More details to come. ​ credits: design: Matthew O. Daby - m.o.daby design / construction: Cellar Ridge Construction / structural engineer: Darla Wall - Willamette Building Solutions / photography: Erin Riddle - KLIK Concepts

Set amongst a splendid display of forty-one oaks, the design for this family residence demanded an intimate knowledge and respectful acceptance of the trees as the indigenous inhabitants of the space. Crafted from this symbiotic relationship, the architecture found natural placement in the beautiful spaces between the forty-one, acknowledging their presence and pedagogy. Conceived as a series of interconnected pavilions, the home hovers slightly above the native grasslands as it settles down amongst the oaks. Broad overhanging flat plate roofs cantilever out, connecting indoor living space to the nature beyond. Large windows are strategically placed to capture views of particularly well-sculptured trees, and enhance the connection of the grove and the home to the valley surround.

The goal for this mid-century home was to exploit the best features of the property, taking advantage of views, the dramatic light, the potential for an incredible indoor-outdoor experience and the mid-century bones of the house. When we first visited the property, I was struck by the potential for a beautiful mountain view that was currently cut off by a low ceiling height in the main living area. Raising the roof of the main living area became the largest gesture in our scope of work. The former chopped-up side entry and tiny kitchen were combined to make a long, generous kitchen and built-in banquette. The original rhombus-shaped pool was kept, restored and lined with Ann Sacks tiles. In the center of the action, we conceived a large floating desk surface suspended from a black metal screen to define the space and allow filtered light and views to pass between. The clients were drawn to clean lines, pared-down details and highly disciplined palettes of white, grey and matte black. We generally opted for deep, muted colors balanced with crisp white, adding textures to create patterns with the shifting daylight throughout the house. This soothing collection of finishes playing with light and shadow would achieve a peaceful and elegant home that would stand the test of time and honor the landscape of the surrounding area. ​ Photography: Douglas Friedman

Jardinier du Roi ®, manufacture French planters designed during the 17th century by André Le Notre, the gardener of King Louis 14th, originally conceived for the orangerie of the “Chateau de Versailles”. These planters are hand made, and made of cast aluminum alloy in combination with steel and the side panels are made of wood.

Sunlit Solace is conceived as a luminous urban retreat — a duplex that balances openness with intimacy, where natural light becomes the primary material and warmth the prevailing feeling. Crisp architecture meets soft textures; expansive windows invite daylight to dance across surfaces, while layered finishes and thoughtful proportions create a home that feels both elevated and welcoming. The result is a sanctuary in the city: modern yet grounded, relaxed yet refined, where everyday rituals are bathed in light and designed for living beautifully.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Perfectly balanced and built with a solid stainless steel frame and 240 meters of textured flag line, this modern industrial beauty upholds the iconic style of the original Danish design. As Hans Wegner conceived the idea for this chair while at the beach, the wide-set and low frame is naturally perfect for an afternoon rest, especially when matched with the cozy comfort of a sheepskin throw and down feather filled headrest.

Conceived in the Moorish Revival Style, the Turkish Parlor is consistent with other masculine, so-called “Smoking Rooms” of late-Victorian grand houses. Photo by Mark Citret

This homeowner’s love of Swedish modern design is evident in the geometry that forms the basis of the composition. Conceived by architect Gert Wingardh of Sweden and executed by VOA Associates, the opaque minimalist façade that is presented to the street contrasts with glassy interior courtyard walls that frame views to a landscaped pond. Crisp detailing enhances the effect. The limited palette of materials and energy-efficient building systems respond to the owners’ desire to live a modern, sustainable lifestyle.

The fact that this home is in a development called Providence now seems perfectly fitting. Chris, the owner, was merely considering the possibility of downsizing from a formal residence outside Atlanta when he happened on the small complex of luxury brownstones under construction in nearby Roswell. “I wandered into The Providence by chance and loved what I saw. The developer, his wife, and the agent were there and discussing how Cantoni was going to finish out one of the units, and so we all started talking,” Chris explains “They asked if I wanted to meet with the designer from Cantoni, and suggested I could customize the home as I saw fit, and that did it for me. I was sold.” Cantoni was originally approached by Mike and Joy Walsh, of Lehigh Homes, to create a contemporary model home to be featured on the Roswell Woman’s Club home tour. “Since Chris bought the brownstone right after we agreed to do the design work,” Lorna Hunter recalls, “we brought him in on the meetings with the architects to help finalize the layout.” From selecting tile and counter tops, to designing the kitchen and baths, to the furniture, art and even linens—Cantoni was involved with every phase of the project. “This home really represents the complete range of design and staging services we offer at Cantoni,” says Lorna. “Rooms were reconfigured to allow for changes Chris found appealing, and every tile and doorknob was thoughtfully chosen to complete the overall look.” Chris found an easy rapport with Lorna. “I have always been drawn to contemporary décor,” he explains, “ so Lorna and I hit it off immediately.” Among the custom design ideas the two conceived for the 2,600 sq. ft. 3/3 brownstone: creating a “wing wall” (open on both sides) to form a sitting area adjacent to the guest room downstairs, removing the elevator to enhance a sense of openness while leaving the 3-story shaft as a unique focal point, and choosing to expand the height of windows on the third level to maximize the flow of natural light. The Providence is ideally located near quaint shops, great restaurants, jogging trails and a scenic river—not to mention it’s just four miles from Chris’ office. The project represents the breadth and depth of Cantoni’s in-house creative resources, and proves again that GREAT DESIGN IS A WAY OF LIFE.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Beverly Hills based clients commissioned a vacation home for their family in Malibu, CA. Together with world renowned interior designer John Cottrell, we conceived a 10,000 sq. ft. Pennsylvania Stone Farm House. The stone was quarried from the Midwest and is complemented by a steep French slate roof. The site is situated on a 2 1/2 acre bluff with a panoramic view stretching from Paradise Cove to Catalina Island. This resplendent retreat immediately relaxes the mind and body as one is lead from the circular drive court through an arched portico with paneled wood gates into a quiet lawned courtyard. The garden and reflective lap pool and spa are sheltered from harsh elements by the two wings of the house. A glass French lite Dutch entrance door is discretely located at the end of an outdoor colonnade. Architect: Ward Jewell Architect, AIA Interior Designer: John Cottrell Landscape Designer: Doug Levy Construction: David Moline Builders

This second floor guest bath is conceived more as a powder room with an alcove for the shower. The floor is mosaic Jerusalem Gold marble in a herringbone pattern. The furniture-like custom vanity is artfully located in front of a bright window with a pedestal mirror on the marble top.

A Whole House Transformation – conceived as a remodel and addition, the final design iteration for this home is uniquely multifaceted. There were structural considerations and the overall floor plan design centered on maximizing the views. Additions to this home totaled over 1,200 square feet. What was once the master suite, on the second floor, is now a teenagers bedroom. The master suite was relocated to the first floor and is now overlooking the pool, pool house and patio with panoramic views of the backyard. The front entrance closet became the new entrance for the master suite, which includes a sprawling bathroom and boutique closet. Underneath this area is the new theater and billiard room located in the lower level. A new front entrance and roof gables were added for a seamless new exterior look on the right side of the house. The new functional home office, gourmet kitchen, wainscot dining room, and laundry on the main level were taken down to the studs. A new traditional style for the home was created with new cabinetry, trim and millwork, space planning and detail. The lower level was gutted and turned into an award winning showpiece with gym, full wet bar and kitchen, wine nook, family room and game room marrying the new addition with theater and billiard area. The entire exterior stucco was taken off the home and pool house replacing it with stone, stone pillars, shakes and board and batten. The small screen deck was torn off making for expansive 3 season living with a new covered stone grill area. The patio was expanded with a stone fireplace overlooking the entire backyard and pool area. Adding to the new design were landscape features with a new concrete driveway, stone address pier light, stamped concrete walkway to the newly created front covered porch and bead board ceiling, creating an amazing first impression.

SDH Studio - Architecture and Design Location: Bal Harbour, Florida, USA Set in a magnificent corner lot in Bal Harbour Village the site is filled with natural light. This contemporary home is conceived as an open floor plan that integrates indoor with outdoor maximizing family living and entertaining.

The project consisted of the design, detailing and construction of a new residence for a private client in the historic district of Ridgefield, Connecticut, on a street of early 20th century 'Summer Homes'. The residence was conceived of as a Shingle Style Revival structure with a prominent entry porch in keeping with both our and the client’s desire for a home that would feel immediately at one with it’s neighbors both in scale and character. AIA Connecticut Alice Washburn Awards Finalist. Barry A. Hyman