Transitional kitchen photo in San Francisco

This project was designed, and developed by Rhodes Architecture + Light while Josh Meharry was a team member. Nestled into a sloping site, the bridge residence is entered by a series of bridges which span over an entrance light well before meandering into and over an interior double height entry space. This entry space is flooded with natural light from the skylight above, and serves to create a buffer between the common living areas and the bedrooms/ office on the upper level, and between the master suite and the kids bedrooms below; a separation that was desirable to this three generation household. The main living spaces are screened from the entry with a vertical wood screen, and the space can be completely opened up to the large western deck with views of a grove of trees below. An exterior chimney ties the two levels together visually and provides fireplaces for warmth at both the upper and lower covered outdoor spaces. Nearly all of the spaces along the west spill out onto either the upper decks or lower continuous terrace, to facilitate a connection with the site and natural environment throughout the seasons. The exterior roof forms are a modern take on traditional shed roofs with large overhangs, often used in the Pacific Northwest for their ability to shed rain and provide covered areas outdoors. Exterior materials were selected for their durability, with muted dark panels accented by brighter colors and natural wood.

This Tudor style custom home design exudes a distinct touch of heritage and is now nestled within the heart of Town and Country, Missouri. The client wanted a modern open floor plan layout for their family with the ability to entertain formally and informally. They also appreciate privacy and wanted to enjoy views of the rear yard and pool from different vantage points from within the home. The shape of the house was designed to provide needed privacy for the family from neighboring homes, but also allows for an abundance of glass at the rear of the house; maintaining a connection between indoors and out. A combination of stone, brick and stucco completes the home’s exterior. The kitchen and great room were designed to create an open yet warm invitation with cathedral ceiling and exposed beams. The living room is bright and clean with a coffered ceiling and fireplace eloquently situated between dual arched entries. This alluring room also steps out onto a courtyard, connecting the pool deck and covered porch. The large covered porch has an eating area and lounge with TV to watch the game or to enjoy a relaxing fire from the outdoor fireplace. An outdoor bar / kitchen was placed at the far edge of the covered porch and provides a direct link to the pool and pool deck. The home’s dining room was designed with a stone fireplace, large recessed wall niche and crown molding detail to add a feeling of warmth and serenity. The master bedroom is a retreat from the main floor level and also has direct access to the pool and patio. A private study was also incorporated with a direct connection to the master bedroom suite. Each secondary bedroom is a suite with walk in closets and private bathrooms. Over the living room, we placed the kids play room / hang-out space with TV. The lower level has a 2500 bottle wine room, a guest bedroom suite, a bar / entertainment / game room area and an exercise room. Photography by Elizabeth Ann Photography.

This Tudor style custom home design exudes a distinct touch of heritage and is now nestled within the heart of Town and Country, Missouri. The client wanted a modern open floor plan layout for their family with the ability to entertain formally and informally. They also appreciate privacy and wanted to enjoy views of the rear yard and pool from different vantage points from within the home. The shape of the house was designed to provide needed privacy for the family from neighboring homes, but also allows for an abundance of glass at the rear of the house; maintaining a connection between indoors and out. A combination of stone, brick and stucco completes the home’s exterior. The kitchen and great room were designed to create an open yet warm invitation with cathedral ceiling and exposed beams. The living room is bright and clean with a coffered ceiling and fireplace eloquently situated between dual arched entries. This alluring room also steps out onto a courtyard, connecting the pool deck and covered porch. The large covered porch has an eating area and lounge with TV to watch the game or to enjoy a relaxing fire from the outdoor fireplace. An outdoor bar / kitchen was placed at the far edge of the covered porch and provides a direct link to the pool and pool deck. The home’s dining room was designed with a stone fireplace, large recessed wall niche and crown molding detail to add a feeling of warmth and serenity. The master bedroom is a retreat from the main floor level and also has direct access to the pool and patio. A private study was also incorporated with a direct connection to the master bedroom suite. Each secondary bedroom is a suite with walk in closets and private bathrooms. Over the living room, we placed the kids play room / hang-out space with TV. The lower level has a 2500 bottle wine room, a guest bedroom suite, a bar / entertainment / game room area and an exercise room. Photography by Elizabeth Ann Photography.

This Tudor style custom home design exudes a distinct touch of heritage and is now nestled within the heart of Town and Country, Missouri. The client wanted a modern open floor plan layout for their family with the ability to entertain formally and informally. They also appreciate privacy and wanted to enjoy views of the rear yard and pool from different vantage points from within the home. The shape of the house was designed to provide needed privacy for the family from neighboring homes, but also allows for an abundance of glass at the rear of the house; maintaining a connection between indoors and out. A combination of stone, brick and stucco completes the home’s exterior. The kitchen and great room were designed to create an open yet warm invitation with cathedral ceiling and exposed beams. The living room is bright and clean with a coffered ceiling and fireplace eloquently situated between dual arched entries. This alluring room also steps out onto a courtyard, connecting the pool deck and covered porch. The large covered porch has an eating area and lounge with TV to watch the game or to enjoy a relaxing fire from the outdoor fireplace. An outdoor bar / kitchen was placed at the far edge of the covered porch and provides a direct link to the pool and pool deck. The home’s dining room was designed with a stone fireplace, large recessed wall niche and crown molding detail to add a feeling of warmth and serenity. The master bedroom is a retreat from the main floor level and also has direct access to the pool and patio. A private study was also incorporated with a direct connection to the master bedroom suite. Each secondary bedroom is a suite with walk in closets and private bathrooms. Over the living room, we placed the kids play room / hang-out space with TV. The lower level has a 2500 bottle wine room, a guest bedroom suite, a bar / entertainment / game room area and an exercise room. Photography by Elizabeth Ann Photography.

This Tudor style custom home design exudes a distinct touch of heritage and is now nestled within the heart of Town and Country, Missouri. The client wanted a modern open floor plan layout for their family with the ability to entertain formally and informally. They also appreciate privacy and wanted to enjoy views of the rear yard and pool from different vantage points from within the home. The shape of the house was designed to provide needed privacy for the family from neighboring homes, but also allows for an abundance of glass at the rear of the house; maintaining a connection between indoors and out. A combination of stone, brick and stucco completes the home’s exterior. The kitchen and great room were designed to create an open yet warm invitation with cathedral ceiling and exposed beams. The living room is bright and clean with a coffered ceiling and fireplace eloquently situated between dual arched entries. This alluring room also steps out onto a courtyard, connecting the pool deck and covered porch. The large covered porch has an eating area and lounge with TV to watch the game or to enjoy a relaxing fire from the outdoor fireplace. An outdoor bar / kitchen was placed at the far edge of the covered porch and provides a direct link to the pool and pool deck. The home’s dining room was designed with a stone fireplace, large recessed wall niche and crown molding detail to add a feeling of warmth and serenity. The master bedroom is a retreat from the main floor level and also has direct access to the pool and patio. A private study was also incorporated with a direct connection to the master bedroom suite. Each secondary bedroom is a suite with walk in closets and private bathrooms. Over the living room, we placed the kids play room / hang-out space with TV. The lower level has a 2500 bottle wine room, a guest bedroom suite, a bar / entertainment / game room area and an exercise room. Photography by Elizabeth Ann Photography. Interiors by Design Expressions.

This project was designed, and developed by Rhodes Architecture + Light while Josh Meharry was a team member. Constructed within a rare five acre plot of forested land in Bothell, this house design stemmed from an interest in both creating connections to the surrounding environment as well as carving out an area for communal gathering for this family of 6 to come together with their extended family, friends and community. In response to this desire, the main residence was broken into three separate structures arranged roughly into a “C” confirguration, which formed an inner courtyard where communal gatherings could take place that was adjacent to but felt distinct from the surrounding forest. All three structures support different uses for the residence, but all have views toward and open onto this inner court. Since the residence was located at the low point of a shallow ravine that runs through the site, the two side structures were built into the surrounding hillsides with boardformed concrete retaining walls that are exposed at both the interior and exterior of the house. The central structure that houses the main interior living spaces, bridges over a small stream that flows during the wet season, allowing the site’s natural drainage patterns to remain intact. The spanning portion of this central structure is supported off of two cast in place board-formed concrete chimneys, which also act to define the edges of the main interior spaces and include large double sided fireplaces. This central structure was designed to be very transparent to be as inviting as possible and provide views through the structure to the inner courtyard and into the forest beyond. The simple gabled forms are typical of traditional Pacific Northwest homes and cabins found in forested settings like this, and are preferred for their structural efficiency, and their ability to shed rain, snow and tree debris. The roof forms are vaulted at the interior as well, creating an increased sense of spaciousness. The exterior materials used are extremely durable and will remain maintenance free for many years, with corten standing seam metal roofs, corrugated pre-finished siding, exposed board-formed concrete and powder coated steel.

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

This Tudor style custom home design exudes a distinct touch of heritage and is now nestled within the heart of Town and Country, Missouri. The client wanted a modern open floor plan layout for their family with the ability to entertain formally and informally. They also appreciate privacy and wanted to enjoy views of the rear yard and pool from different vantage points from within the home. The shape of the house was designed to provide needed privacy for the family from neighboring homes, but also allows for an abundance of glass at the rear of the house; maintaining a connection between indoors and out. A combination of stone, brick and stucco completes the home’s exterior. The kitchen and great room were designed to create an open yet warm invitation with cathedral ceiling and exposed beams. The living room is bright and clean with a coffered ceiling and fireplace eloquently situated between dual arched entries. This alluring room also steps out onto a courtyard, connecting the pool deck and covered porch. The large covered porch has an eating area and lounge with TV to watch the game or to enjoy a relaxing fire from the outdoor fireplace. An outdoor bar / kitchen was placed at the far edge of the covered porch and provides a direct link to the pool and pool deck. The home’s dining room was designed with a stone fireplace, large recessed wall niche and crown molding detail to add a feeling of warmth and serenity. The master bedroom is a retreat from the main floor level and also has direct access to the pool and patio. A private study was also incorporated with a direct connection to the master bedroom suite. Each secondary bedroom is a suite with walk in closets and private bathrooms. Over the living room, we placed the kids play room / hang-out space with TV. The lower level has a 2500 bottle wine room, a guest bedroom suite, a bar / entertainment / game room area and an exercise room. Photography by Elizabeth Ann Photography.

Architect: Portuondo Perotti Architects Photography: Carlos Domenech “This is well detailed and consistent inside and out. It is a classic Mediterranean Revival in the Floridian tradition of Mizner.” This single-family residential home in Gables Estates, Coral Gables, Florida, successfully pays respect to the architecture of the Mediterranean and Renaissance Italian styles. From the use of courtyards to the high level of detailing, this project emphasizes the most picturesque and expressive qualities of these styles. The residence reflects the visions of two of Coral Gables’ first architects, who designed beautiful and timeless architecture in this garden city to become a lasting piece in the landscape. This project not only captures the breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, but with timeless style and lush landscaping, it creates a centerpiece for the view from the bay to Coral Gables. The home is designed as a long gallery, with spaces connected by courtyards and public realms. Another large inspiration for this project was the idea of the garden and landscape. With Coral Gables as a garden city, landscape became an integral part of the conception and design. The durability of Marvin products, their ability to stand up to the South Florida climate, as well as the Marvin attention to detail and proportion, made them the perfect choice to employ in a project of such high standards. The range of products allowed the freedom of design to explore all possibilities and turn visions into reality. The result was a lasting piece of architecture that would reflect a level of detail in every part of its structure. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Round Top Window Marvin Ultimate Arch Top French Door Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door Marvin Ultimate Venting Picture Window Marvin Casemaster

For many, professional interior design is a luxury. Whether your home’s design project is large or small, having the ability to transform your house, apartment or condo into a beautiful, unique space is a wonderful opportunity for self-expression. Even if it is a just simple accent wall painted in a color that speaks to you, or a complete renovation of your cabinets to achieve the kitchen of your dreams, interior design allows you to create an environment that is both personal and comfortable. That is exactly how interior designer and founder of Design Exchange Sean Carlson Perry feels about what he does for a living. “The reason that I love designing spaces, and value the impact of space design on people, is the way the spaces make us feel, the visceral appeal of good design. Good design should stimulate the senses and generate an emotionally engaging experience. As a designer, I get to massage and sculpt people’s experience of space!” Perry shared with us. In late 2017, the Paintzen team connected with Perry regarding a very special design project he was working on. Design Exchange was renovating, redesigning and re-furnishing The Ali Forney Center. The Ali Forney Center, based in New York City, is the largest and most comprehensive organization dedicated to housing homeless LGBTQ youth. Nearly 40% of the homeless youth population is LGBTQ. Homeless LGBTQ youth are eight times more likely to experience violence, discrimination, and suicide. AFC houses 124 youths each night and provides services to over 1,400 homeless young people per year. Although the organization does an incredible job to provide safety and shelter to homeless youth, Perry and his team felt the space itself could use some updating and could feel more welcoming. Rooms were dark, cold, and lacked proper storage. Furniture was in poor shape and didn’t work. The rooms were being under-utilized; overall, there was so much more that could be done within the walls of the AFC that could be improved using interior design & paint! We at Paintzen were excited to partner with Design Exchange to do our part in this transformation. The dark, paneled walls were re-painted white. This entirely opened up the space, making it brighter, warmer and more welcoming. The white walls also served as a much better backdrop for smart lighting, as well as for the furniture, wall decor, and new flooring. Beyond painting, Perry and his team used FLOR carpet tiles for durability in a bright Fuchsia shade for a pop of color. They created a more functional layout to maximize the space and make better use of its architectural details and added new furniture including lamps, tables, throws, a sofa, a TV and a Roku to make the space beautiful, and even fun. “Design increases connection and community,” Perry told us. “When we revamp a shelter space, history tells us that the residents spend more time in the space, more time with their peers, building connections and community; a greater sense of home.” Perry’s goal was to create an environment that set its residents up for success by improving their quality of life, outlook and self-esteem. “This isn’t extreme home makeover (although I wish I had that budget!). It’s about improving the aesthetics of the space to create a better environment and experience for people who are going through challenging times. I’ve been lucky enough to have an amount of work that allows me to donate a portion of profits to Design Exchange Projects.” Sean Carlson Perry founded Design Exchange as a way to use his talent, passion, and skills to help those who are struggling, or in a place of immediate need. He was searching to bring deeper meaning and a humanitarian component to his work. Perry has worked with clients in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. “Good design—functionally, aesthetically and ergonomically—promotes a better quality of life.” This is a mantra that describes why Perry does what he does through Design Exchange, working to help the underserved of New York City and other cities across the country. “I grew up gay in Nebraska, and have gone through some hard times when I was younger, but I can’t imagine going through what these kids go through – rejection from family, being kicked out of the house for being who they are, homeless and having nowhere else to turn,” said Perry. “Luckily, there is The Ali Forney Center. Doing these projects for AFC strikes close to home for me, so they are extra special and close to my heart.”

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Lakefront property in the northwest suburbs of Chicago is hard to come by, so when we were hired by this young family with exactly that, we were immediately inspired by not just the unusually large footprint of this 1950’s colonial revival but also the lovely views of the manmade lake it was sited on. The large 5-bedroom home was solidly stuck in the 1980’s, but we saw tons of potential. We started out by updating the existing staircase with a fresh coat of paint and adding new herringbone slate to the entry hall. The powder room off the entryway also got a refresh - new flooring, new cabinets and fixtures. We ran the new slate right through into this space for some consistency. A fun wallpaper and shiplap trim add a welcoming feel and set the tone for the home. Next, we tackled the kitchen. Located away from the rest of the first floor, the kitchen felt a little isolated, so we immediately began planning for how to better connect it to the rest of the first floor. We landed on removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room and designed a modified galley style space with separate cooking and clean up zones. The cooking zone consists of the refrigerator, prep sink and cooktop, along with a nice long run of prep space at the island. The cleanup side of the kitchen consists of the main sink and dishwasher. Both areas are situated so that the user can view the lake during prep work and cleanup! One of the home’s main puzzles was how to incorporate the mudroom and area in front of the patio doors at the back of the house. We already had a breakfast table area, so the space by the patio doors was a bit of a no man’s land. We decided to separate the kitchen proper from what became the new mudroom with a large set of barn doors. That way you can quickly hide any mudroom messes but have easy access to the light coming in through the patio doors as well as the outdoor grilling station. We also love the impact the barn doors add to the overall space. The homeowners’ first words to us were “it’s time to ditch the brown,” so we did! We chose a lovely blue pallet that reflects the home’s location on the lake which is also vibrant yet easy on the eye. Countertops are white quartz, and the natural oak floor works well with the other honey accents. The breakfast table was given a refresh with new chairs, chandelier and window treatments that frame the gorgeous views of the lake out the back. We coordinated the slate mudroom flooring with that used in the home’s main entrance for a consistent feel. The storage area consists of open and closed storage to allow for some clutter control as needed. Next on our “to do” list was revamping the dated brown bar area in the neighboring dining room. We eliminated the clutter by adding some closed cabinets and did some easy updates to help the space feel more current. One snag we ran into here was the discovery of a beam above the existing open shelving that had to be modified with a smaller structural beam to allow for our new design to work. This was an unexpected surprise, but in the end we think it was well worth it! We kept the colors here a bit more muted to blend with the homeowner’s existing furnishings. Open shelving and polished nickel hardware add some simple detail to the new entertainment zone which also looks out onto the lake! Next we tackled the upstairs starting with the homeowner’s son’s bath. The bath originally had both a tub shower and a separate shower, so we decided to swap out the shower for a new laundry area. This freed up some space downstairs in what used to be the mudroom/laundry room and is much more convenient for daily laundry needs. We continued the blue palette here with navy cabinetry and the navy tile in the shower. Porcelain floor tile and chrome fixtures keep maintenance to a minimum while matte black mirrors and lighting add some depth the design. A low maintenance runner adds some warmth underfoot and ties the whole space together. We added a pocket door to the bathroom to minimize interference with the door swings. The left door of the laundry closet is on a 180 degree hinge to allow for easy full access to the machines. Next we tackled the master bath which is an en suite arrangement. The original was typical of the 1980’s with the vanity outside of the bathroom, situated near the master closet. And the brown theme continued here with multiple shades of brown. Our first move was to segment off the bath and the closet from the master bedroom. We created a short hall from the bedroom to the bathroom with his and hers walk-in closets on the left and right as well as a separate toilet closet outside of the main bathroom for privacy and flexibility. The original bathroom had a giant soaking tub with steps (dangerous!) as well as a small shower that did not work well for our homeowner who is 6’3”. With other bathtubs in the home, they decided to eliminate the tub and create an oversized shower which takes up the space where the old tub was located. The double vanity is on the opposite wall and a bench is located under the window for morning conversations and a place to set a couple of towels. The pallet in here is light and airy with a mix of blond wood, creamy porcelain and marble tile, and brass accents. A simple roman shade adds some texture and it’s top-down mechanism allows for light and privacy. This large whole house remodel gave our homeowners not only the ability to maximize the potential of their home but also created a lovely new frame from which to view their fabulous lake views. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

John Kraemer and Sons, Inc. Artisan Home Tour 2016

This expansive first floor takes luxury to the next level. A once dreary and dark kitchen, lacking in function, takes on a new look. Natural light floods through the kitchen with wall-to-wall windows, highlighting the gorgeous wood texture from the rift sawn white oak and walnut inset cabinets. A french La Corneau range provides a beautiful focal point, paired with layered designer lighting and various stones. A host’s dream space for entertaining with a hidden pantry, fully stocked with a chefs sink, dishwasher, and wall oven with ample storage for dry goods and small appliances. A morning brew or 5'oclock cocktail can be found in the fully loaded wet bar stocked with an integrated espresso maker, ice maker, refrigerator, freezer, wine cooler, and spirits collected from traveling the globe. Cheers!

For the past several years, Buffum Homes has proudly featured Parade Homes within our own developments, and each year they have been a tremendous success. The Spring 2026 Parade of Homes was no exception. This year, we showcased our Sydney floor plan, one of Buffum Homes’ most popular 1.5-story home designs. Time and time again, homeowners are drawn to this plan because of its thoughtful layout, functional design, and ability to be customized to fit a variety of lifestyles. From the moment visitors arrived, this home made a statement. Its striking modern exterior immediately stood out within the development and offered exceptional curb appeal. The design team selected beautiful masonry accents that perfectly complemented the home’s color palette, creating a sophisticated and welcoming first impression. Every exterior detail was intentionally chosen to enhance the architecture and showcase the home’s unique character. Upon entry to this home, guests are welcomed through impressive double front doors that lead into a warm and inviting foyer. Immediately beyond, the stunning two-story great room creates a grand first impression. An overlooking loft from the second floor enhances the open feel of the space while allowing an abundance of natural daylight to pour throughout the home. A beautiful masonry fireplace chase serves as the focal point of the room, adding warmth, texture, and character to the heart of the home. Just off the foyer is a private office featuring a thoughtfully designed custom built-in, creating the perfect space for working from home, studying, or staying organized. The attention to detail found throughout this space is a great example of the craftsmanship that Buffum Homes is known for. Tucked away off the main living area is the primary suite, a comfortable retreat designed with both beauty and functionality in mind. The bedroom features a stunning tray ceiling accented with white oak detailing, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The primary bathroom includes a custom tiled shower, private water closet, dual-sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. Every element was carefully considered to maximize both comfort and everyday convenience. Buffum Homes has become known for incorporating unique trim details throughout our homes, and this Parade Home was certainly no exception. From feature walls and ceiling treatments to custom built-ins and carefully crafted millwork, thoughtful details can be found around every corner. The great room flows seamlessly into the dining area and spacious U-shaped kitchen, creating an ideal layout for entertaining and everyday living. This updated version of the Sydney floor plan features a massive walk-in pantry with abundant shelving and countertop space, providing exceptional storage and organization. Within the kitchen, a stunning custom hood vent serves as a beautiful statement piece while built-in nooks offer convenient storage for cooking oils, spices, and other kitchen essentials. Just beyond the kitchen, the mudroom provides a practical transition space from the garage into the home. Complete with custom built-in lockers, a convenient half bath, and a large laundry room, this area was designed to keep daily life organized and efficient. The home also features a spacious three-stall garage, offering plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and recreational equipment. Spanning roughly 1,500 square feet, the main floor was thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality while maintaining an open and inviting feel. Every space serves a purpose while still providing the custom details and architectural features that make this home stand out. Ascending to the second floor, homeowners are welcomed by a spacious open loft overlooking the great room below. This versatile area provides additional living space and can be customized to fit a variety of needs. Whether used as a play area for children or grandchildren, a reading nook, a homework station, or simply a secondary gathering space, the loft adds both functionality and character to the home while maintaining a connection to the main living areas below. Also located on the second floor are three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing plenty of room for family members and guests. The thoughtful layout allows for privacy while still keeping everyone connected through the open loft space. With approximately 1,000 square feet on the upper level, the second floor complements the main level perfectly while adding flexibility for growing families and changing needs over time. The lower level offers just under 1,100 square feet of future finish potential, providing homeowners with the flexibility to expand their living space as their needs evolve. Thoughtfully designed and well laid out, the basement is ready to accommodate a variety of future uses while maintaining excellent flow and functionality. The available space is ideal for adding two future bedrooms, a spacious family room, and a future full bathroom, making it perfect for growing families, hosting guests, or creating additional recreational space. Even with these future living areas, there is still plenty of room remaining for storage, ensuring homeowners have ample space for seasonal items, hobbies, and household essentials. One of the greatest advantages of the Sydney floor plan is its ability to grow alongside its homeowners. While the home already offers approximately 2,500 square feet of beautifully finished above-grade living space, completing the lower level would bring the total finished living area to over 3,600 square feet. This creates a truly expansive home that provides exceptional flexibility, comfort, and long-term value. In its current configuration, this home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,500 square feet above grade. With a future lower level finish, homeowners have the opportunity to expand to 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 3,600 square feet of finished living space. The flexibility built into this design is one of the many reasons the Sydney continues to be one of our most requested floor plans. This home was filled with thoughtful details and custom touches throughout. From the carefully selected finishes and trim work to the intentional layout decisions, every aspect of the home was designed to maximize space, natural light, and everyday functionality. The result is a home that not only looks beautiful but also lives exceptionally well for years to come. It was a pleasure featuring this home in the Parade of Homes and welcoming so many visitors through its doors. We always enjoy the opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail while sharing the quality that Buffum Homes brings to every project throughout West Michigan. As you browse through the photos below, we hope you’ll find inspiration for your own future home and discover ideas that fit your lifestyle and vision. Whether it is a favorite finish, layout feature, built-in detail, or design element, this home is a great example of how personalized a Buffum Home can be. When you’re ready to begin your custom home journey, we’d love to help create a customized version of the Sydney floor plan tailored specifically to your family’s needs, style, and goals. We can’t wait to help bring your dream home to life.

Mid-sized elegant gray two-story gable roof photo in Boston with a shingle roof

Architect: Portuondo Perotti Architects Photography: Carlos Domenech “This is well detailed and consistent inside and out. It is a classic Mediterranean Revival in the Floridian tradition of Mizner.” This single-family residential home in Gables Estates, Coral Gables, Florida, successfully pays respect to the architecture of the Mediterranean and Renaissance Italian styles. From the use of courtyards to the high level of detailing, this project emphasizes the most picturesque and expressive qualities of these styles. The residence reflects the visions of two of Coral Gables’ first architects, who designed beautiful and timeless architecture in this garden city to become a lasting piece in the landscape. This project not only captures the breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, but with timeless style and lush landscaping, it creates a centerpiece for the view from the bay to Coral Gables. The home is designed as a long gallery, with spaces connected by courtyards and public realms. Another large inspiration for this project was the idea of the garden and landscape. With Coral Gables as a garden city, landscape became an integral part of the conception and design. The durability of Marvin products, their ability to stand up to the South Florida climate, as well as the Marvin attention to detail and proportion, made them the perfect choice to employ in a project of such high standards. The range of products allowed the freedom of design to explore all possibilities and turn visions into reality. The result was a lasting piece of architecture that would reflect a level of detail in every part of its structure. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Round Top Window Marvin Ultimate Arch Top French Door Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door Marvin Ultimate Venting Picture Window Marvin Casemaster

"Sun-Kissed Sanctuary" reimagines the traditional dining room as a versatile haven, perfect for year-round conversation and creating a lasting first impression. This project catered to the client's desire for a space that seamlessly blends casual elegance with organic elements. The design team employed a calming palette of soft whites and airy blues, setting the stage for a serene escape. Textural harmony was achieved through a layered approach: radial plush linen chairs provided sumptuous comfort, while woven pillows and a shagreen-wrapped coffee table added a touch of rustic charm. A lush fiddle fig leaf plant, strategically placed in the space, injected a dose of life and echoed the organic design theme. Respectful of the existing foundation, we integrated the client's existing rug, a statement chandelier, and a captivating wall thread hanging into the new design. To elevate the space further, we introduced custom elements that instilled a sense of unique character. Hand-crafted wood beams and wall trim, reminiscent of a sun-drenched porch, added warmth and architectural interest. Oyster-hued wallpaper on the foyer ceiling provided a bold textural contrast and a touch of coastal sophistication. The added white trim was accentuated, drawing the eye upwards and creating a sense of verticality. The "Sun-Kissed Sanctuary" transcends the limitations of a traditional front room, offering a versatile space that invites relaxation and connection. This project exemplifies our ability to curate a space that is both elegant and inviting, perfectly reflecting the client's personality and lifestyle.