Spacecrafting Photography
Mountain style exterior home photo in Minneapolis

When we first stepped into this contemporary loft, we felt the energy of the space – and of the homeowners. They loves to cook, entertain, and unwind together. Right away, we knew our design direction had to feel moody, upscale, and a little industrial – but warm and grounded too. We took inspiration from the exposed beams and ductwork, letting those architectural elements guide our material palette and layout.

John Benford
Pool - transitional pool idea in Portland Maine

Built for the Bluff, A Sea Ranch Home is Remade from the Inside Out The house had always been grounded, on an ocean bluff at The Sea Ranch. It sits unencumbered, adjacent to one of the most dramatic stretches of the Sonoma coast with protected commons meadow to the east, uninterrupted Pacific views to the west, and a bluff trail running alongside. What it lacked was the feeling of home, one that could hold up its own against the natural landscape. The owners are entrepreneurs with deep involvement across tech, real estate, and development and they know how things are built. The Sea Ranch house had been in their lives for years, a second residence and a place for family to gather. Built for a different time, it felt more compromising than comfortable. Sitting in a closed off nook, the kitchen fit one cook at a time and turned its back on the rest of the house. The entry was dim and compressed, divided by a structural column that presented itself at exactly the wrong moment. The primary suite was small relative to the view outside it. A large rear bedroom sat behind a lowered ceiling with a bathroom that had never been added. The house was certainly worth the trouble of doing it right. What followed was not one project but four, each with its own design challenge, each addressed over a period of time. Where the House Meets the Ocean The most complex piece of the project, in both structural and spatial terms, was the kitchen expansion. The existing room was a single-person galley squeezed in as an afterthought with no meaningful connection to the dining room, the living space, or the deck outside. To make it useful for a family that cooks and gathers, it needed to grow outward into an existing patio and flow into the rooms around it. A big challenge was the roofline. Several planes at different pitches and angles converged directly where additional volume was needed. A new form had to join that geometry without reading as a correction. The solution found the simplest possible connection between the existing angles, a roofline that from outside the structure, appears entirely original. From the bluff trail where the addition is visible, there is no discernible seam. Inside, the kitchen is now open to the living and dining rooms without interruption. A large sliding glass door connects the space onto the rear deck. The deck itself was expanded and oriented so that the body of the house shields it from the coastal wind which is a common consideration that determines whether outdoor space at The Sea Ranch actually gets used. The result is a room that works for large family gatherings where no one feels cutoff, and one that makes the boundary between being inside and outside easy to ignore. Welcoming Light A structural column stood at the convergence of eight distinct roof planes in the entry. It was load-bearing, but it was also the reason the entry had always felt like a hallway rather than a welcoming arrival. With the structural engineer, a custom steel connector was designed to receive beams from six separate directions, redistributing the load through a single new continuous beam. The column was surgically removed. Three triangular skylights were then cut into the roof above, their shapes drawn from the existing geometry of the planes around them. The entry is now bright and open. The skylights feel native to the structure because they follow the logic already present in the roof. Two Suites, Two Views At opposite ends of the house, the two bedroom suites were each reconfigured, and each found a different way to introduce more of the landscape into the room. An addition to the primary suite extended the structure outward to create a wraparound plan with a loop from the bedroom through bath and closet that had not been possible before. The expansion opened a slot view from the tub and shower toward the ocean. The view is precise and private. The ocean view is present and deliberate. The rear bedroom absorbed an adjacent storage room to transform it into a full second suite with a vaulted ceiling, a large bathroom with a tub, a shower, and a sauna. A private fenced garden courtyard sits just beyond the glass bringing the outdoors inside. The tub was placed so that, looking past the courtyard and through the bedroom beyond, the ocean is visible at the far end. It is a long view and it makes the room feel larger and more settled than its footprint would suggest. Glass on Four Sides, Fire at the Center The main living and gathering room had always been caught between two competing facts: glass on four sides meant exceptional views but at The Sea Ranch, it also meant a cold room. A 360-degree cylindrical fireplace was added at the center on a raised stone base, providing radiant heat in every direction and giving the room a focal point around which a group naturally orients itself, whether that means two people at the end of the day or the whole family after dinner. Owners Who Picked Up the Tools The owner was not a passive client. they came with construction knowledge, specific ideas, and the desire to be an active part of the process, a dynamic that other architects may had found difficult, which Klopf Architecture accepted as an asset. They took it upon themselves to complete some of the work during construction, including the installation of a new radiant heating system beneath the floors. The radiant system added to the older and less-desirable forced-air setup. At The Sea Ranch, that change matters as the house sits close enough to the ocean and moving air competes with the sound of it, where radiant heat does not. Solar panels were added to the roof as part of the new system. Insulation was upgraded throughout the walls, roof, and crawl space. The house that had always had the right setting now holds warmth the way a house on the bluff should. They were also deeply involved in the design and selections throughout, and the finished house reflects both of them in ways that are specific rather than generic. The process took longer and moved through more iterations than a more arms-length relationship might have allowed. The result is more defined and personal because of it. The Landscape Holds Priority Every exterior decision was shaped by The Sea Ranch Design Standards, which require that buildings defer to the landscape around them rather than compete with it. Because this house sits on the bluff and is visible from the public trail, the additions faced a close review. Existing materials were matched. Geometries were resolved. The additions had to become indistinguishable from the original building. From the trail, the house reads exactly as it always has — low, cedar-clad, secondary to the meadow and the water. The setting holds priority. Inside, the house has been remade. Klopf Architecture Project Team: Geoff Campen and Trenton Jewett
Contractor: Shawn Bettega Construction
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023
Location: The Sea Ranch, CA

Framed by mature trees and nestled within Sarasota’s historic McClellan Park, Sunset Place is a home shaped by a deep understanding of, and sensibility for, its setting—reflecting the charm of the neighborhood, the rhythm of downtown living, and the client’s vision of entertaining, connection, and family life. Every decision—from site strategy to spatial flow—was made with intention: to support a lifestyle centered on warmth, community, and a strong sense of place. At its core, the project is a masterclass in leveraging zoning and code to unlock the full potential of a complex site. Though landlocked, the home lives like waterfront—offering openness, privacy, and expansive sunset views. Placing the pool in the front yard, within the 25-foot setback, redefines the entry experience. It captures the western light and sets a relaxed, resort-like tone from the very first step inside the gate. Paired with a rear-loaded garage, accessed discreetly via the side setback, the layout transforms the site’s limitations into its greatest assets. Architecture and landscape take center stage, while the full buildable envelope is maximized without compromise. A natural rise of eight feet from front to back—rare in Sarasota—was embraced as an opportunity. Site walls function as both retaining structures and architectural elements, elevating the pool terrace and entry by over four feet to align with the main interior floor level. The result is a fluid connection between indoors and out: kitchen, dining, and living spaces unfold onto the terrace, blurring boundaries and enhancing everyday rituals as well as social gatherings. Architecturally, the home is coastal contemporary: open yet composed, airy yet grounded. Clarity in the massing tells a story of the inhabitants from the first glance, while the interior planning offers spatial generosity and ease. The interiors echo this sensibility with a palette that is soft, natural, and tactile—serene without being neutral. The landscape design provides a lush tropical frame, softening edges and reinforcing privacy through layered plantings rather than enclosure. Ultimately, Sunset Place is not defined by any single gesture, but by the way the home reflects its owners. Their gracious, family-centered nature informed every layer of design—resulting in a space that feels deeply personal, tailored for connection and ease, and perfectly suited for gathering, unwinding, and watching the sun slip behind the trees from the comfort of home.

Nestled against the serene backdrop of Lake Sammamish, this mid-century modern house has undergone a breathtaking architectural renovation that blends warm design with contemporary elegance. The heart of the home is a stunning custom plaster wall, its soft texture and warm hues creating an inviting focal point that beautifully contrasts with the clean lines and expansive windows. The natural light floods the living spaces, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the entire renovation. Every angle reveals the tranquil lake, with views that seem to stretch infinitely, inviting the outdoors in and creating a seamless connection with nature. The kitchen stands as a testament to modern luxury, featuring rift-sawn white oak cabinets that evoke warmth and sophistication. Their intricate grain patterns add depth, while the smooth quartz countertops provide both durability and a sleek aesthetic. The custom cabinetry showcases innovative storage solutions, making it not only a visual delight but also an incredibly functional space for family gatherings. Each detail was thoughtfully considered, with the architect and builder collaborating closely to ensure that the design met the unique needs of the family, resulting in a kitchen that is as joyful to cook in as it is beautiful to behold. The renovation also shines with elegant ceramic white light fixtures that gracefully offset the stunning views of Lake Sammamish. These fixtures not only illuminate the spaces but also serve as sculptural accents that enhance the home’s mid-century modern aesthetic. Their soft glow complements the natural light, casting a warm ambiance throughout the day and evening. In the heart of the kitchen, a custom breakfast nook beckons, designed with furniture thoughtfully selected by the architect to create an intimate gathering space. Here, the family can savor their morning coffee while soaking in the breathtaking vistas, turning each breakfast into a cherished communion with the tranquil beauty of the lake. This cozy corner not only fosters connection but also encapsulates the spirit of the home, where every meal becomes a celebration of nature and togetherness. In the primary bathroom, exquisite glass tiles shimmer like jewels, transforming the space into a serene retreat. The careful selection of materials reflects a commitment to quality and style, with each element harmonizing to create a luxurious yet comfortable environment. Throughout the home, the architect’s vision is complemented by the builder’s expertise, ensuring that every feature—from the placement of windows to the flow of rooms—enhances the family’s experience. The result is a haven of happiness, where each room invites creativity, connection, and tranquility, making this residence not just a house, but a cherished home.

Inspiration for a transitional l-shaped vaulted ceiling kitchen remodel in Minneapolis with white cabinets, an island and white countertops

Nestled against the serene backdrop of Lake Sammamish, this mid-century modern house has undergone a breathtaking architectural renovation that blends warm design with contemporary elegance. The heart of the home is a stunning custom plaster wall, its soft texture and warm hues creating an inviting focal point that beautifully contrasts with the clean lines and expansive windows. The natural light floods the living spaces, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the entire renovation. Every angle reveals the tranquil lake, with views that seem to stretch infinitely, inviting the outdoors in and creating a seamless connection with nature. The kitchen stands as a testament to modern luxury, featuring rift-sawn white oak cabinets that evoke warmth and sophistication. Their intricate grain patterns add depth, while the smooth quartz countertops provide both durability and a sleek aesthetic. The custom cabinetry showcases innovative storage solutions, making it not only a visual delight but also an incredibly functional space for family gatherings. Each detail was thoughtfully considered, with the architect and builder collaborating closely to ensure that the design met the unique needs of the family, resulting in a kitchen that is as joyful to cook in as it is beautiful to behold. The renovation also shines with elegant ceramic white light fixtures that gracefully offset the stunning views of Lake Sammamish. These fixtures not only illuminate the spaces but also serve as sculptural accents that enhance the home’s mid-century modern aesthetic. Their soft glow complements the natural light, casting a warm ambiance throughout the day and evening. In the heart of the kitchen, a custom breakfast nook beckons, designed with furniture thoughtfully selected by the architect to create an intimate gathering space. Here, the family can savor their morning coffee while soaking in the breathtaking vistas, turning each breakfast into a cherished communion with the tranquil beauty of the lake. This cozy corner not only fosters connection but also encapsulates the spirit of the home, where every meal becomes a celebration of nature and togetherness. In the primary bathroom, exquisite glass tiles shimmer like jewels, transforming the space into a serene retreat. The careful selection of materials reflects a commitment to quality and style, with each element harmonizing to create a luxurious yet comfortable environment. Throughout the home, the architect’s vision is complemented by the builder’s expertise, ensuring that every feature—from the placement of windows to the flow of rooms—enhances the family’s experience. The result is a haven of happiness, where each room invites creativity, connection, and tranquility, making this residence not just a house, but a cherished home.

This spacious entertainer's kitchen is part of a whole house remodel and 2-story addition. Our clients' goal was to create a larger, more functional kitchen with a strong connection to the outdoors. The unique flip up window allows for a complete connection to the outdoor covered space. No expense was spared in this design as the clients' desire for all natural materials drove the selections. The quartzite island in Opus White provides a textural and colorful element that grounds the space and complements the soapstone perimeter counters. The flip out window is a unique feature that bridges indoor and outdoor, and provides unique entertaining element. The focal point of the kitchen are the large windows looking into their greenspace, in order to preserve the view there were very few upper cabinets planned. To compensate with this direction, the lower cabinets were outfitted with top-of-the line interior accessories to provide the most functional and efficient storage. High-end, Wolf and Sub Zero appliance and the addition of a walk-in pantry completed the wish list! Steel beams were the solution to creating the large open connection between existing structure and new kitchen addition. We had to incorporate a shallow steel beam spanning the whole width of the kitchen to not impede the existing 8' ceiling height, yet allow for the master bedroom addition directly above the new kitchen addition. In order to bridge interior and exterior spaces, a custom, flip-out window was selected. This sits on the finished counter slab, which extended into the adjacent covered entertaining patio. This allowed no room for error, all the components had to fit together exactly to insure the extended countertop would function as the sill. The value provided our clients was in helping select high quality materials and install them with exceptional quality. Our team did an outstanding job of keeping our client on track and avoiding costly mistakes. This project was not delivered within the original budget due to several client driven change orders.

Perched on a ridge at the edge of a wooded expanse, this mid-century modern home was designed to embrace both the intimate connection to the forest and the expansive valley views beyond. The site—carefully chosen from the family’s 52-acre homestead in western Wisconsin—balances privacy and openness, placing the home at the meeting point of dense trees and rolling fields. The approach winds through the forest, offering only glimpses of the structure. Upon arrival, the parking area is subtly positioned below the main level, reinforcing the sense of discovery. As one ascends the entry walk, the house unfolds, revealing a dramatic view through the two-story living space, anchored by a brick fireplace that extends from floor to ceiling. The asymmetrical roofline lifts upward, accentuating the openness and maximizing natural light. Inside, warm materials define the interiors. Wood ceilings and floors, complemented by concrete-look tile, establish a natural, grounded aesthetic. Black wood-clad beams provide scale and structure, subtly delineating spaces within the open-plan layout. A wood lattice screen partially conceals the dining area from the foyer, offering both openness and privacy. The kitchen—designed for gathering—features a large island, a dedicated baking station, and a breakfast counter that catches morning light while serving as a pass-through to the adjacent patio. Two textured glass sliding panels allow the kitchen to be closed off when needed. Just beyond, a hidden gem: the home’s personal Tiki room, complete with a vintage mug collection and a full bar. To the east, the central fireplace marks the transition to more intimate spaces. A wide stair, integrated with the hearth, leads to the lower level, while a library with a corner window creates a quiet retreat, perfect for reading and taking in the valley beyond. The primary suite extends off this wing, featuring a spa-like bath with a textured tile walk-in shower, a soaking tub positioned for dramatic views, and a private balcony overlooking the landscape. The lower level is designed for family gatherings and extended stays. A secondary fireplace, echoing the materials of the main level, anchors a cozy living area with an adjacent kitchenette. Additional bedrooms and baths provide ample accommodations, while a hidden playhouse under the stair and a dedicated bunk room add playful touches for visiting grandchildren. The home is a balance of openness and enclosure, modernity and warmth—designed not only as a retreat but as a multigenerational gathering place, deeply connected to the land.

Nestled in the treetops overlooking Lake Sarah, this second-story addition was designed as both a retreat and an extension of home. Elevated above the shoreline, the new spaces immerse the homeowners in the beauty of their surroundings while supporting the rhythm of daily life. The addition introduces a private guest en-suite for visiting family and friends, a quiet office for focused work, a cozy lounge for gathering, a dedicated ceramic studio for making, and an outdoor patio that connects seamlessly to views of the lake and woods. Every space reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle—places where creativity can flourish, where moments of reflection are possible, and where memories with friends and family can be made. Natural light, framed views, and a strong connection to the outdoors guided the design, ensuring that each room feels both purposeful and restorative. Outside, durable cement board siding, anodized aluminum Marvin windows, and composite decking ensure lasting performance. Inside, walnut flooring and custom millwork bring warmth and texture, balancing comfort with modern practicality This project goes beyond adding square footage. It creates a sanctuary—an elevated experience of home where living, creating, and connecting come together in the treetops.

Perched on a ridge at the edge of a wooded expanse, this mid-century modern home was designed to embrace both the intimate connection to the forest and the expansive valley views beyond. The site—carefully chosen from the family’s 52-acre homestead in western Wisconsin—balances privacy and openness, placing the home at the meeting point of dense trees and rolling fields. The approach winds through the forest, offering only glimpses of the structure. Upon arrival, the parking area is subtly positioned below the main level, reinforcing the sense of discovery. As one ascends the entry walk, the house unfolds, revealing a dramatic view through the two-story living space, anchored by a brick fireplace that extends from floor to ceiling. The asymmetrical roofline lifts upward, accentuating the openness and maximizing natural light. Inside, warm materials define the interiors. Wood ceilings and floors, complemented by concrete-look tile, establish a natural, grounded aesthetic. Black wood-clad beams provide scale and structure, subtly delineating spaces within the open-plan layout. A wood lattice screen partially conceals the dining area from the foyer, offering both openness and privacy. The kitchen—designed for gathering—features a large island, a dedicated baking station, and a breakfast counter that catches morning light while serving as a pass-through to the adjacent patio. Two textured glass sliding panels allow the kitchen to be closed off when needed. Just beyond, a hidden gem: the home’s personal Tiki room, complete with a vintage mug collection and a full bar. To the east, the central fireplace marks the transition to more intimate spaces. A wide stair, integrated with the hearth, leads to the lower level, while a library with a corner window creates a quiet retreat, perfect for reading and taking in the valley beyond. The primary suite extends off this wing, featuring a spa-like bath with a textured tile walk-in shower, a soaking tub positioned for dramatic views, and a private balcony overlooking the landscape. The lower level is designed for family gatherings and extended stays. A secondary fireplace, echoing the materials of the main level, anchors a cozy living area with an adjacent kitchenette. Additional bedrooms and baths provide ample accommodations, while a hidden playhouse under the stair and a dedicated bunk room add playful touches for visiting grandchildren. The home is a balance of openness and enclosure, modernity and warmth—designed not only as a retreat but as a multigenerational gathering place, deeply connected to the land.

Spacecrafting Photography
Mountain style dining room photo in Minneapolis

The original kitchen in this midcentury Ann Arbor home was only a fraction of the size it is today. We removed walls to open up the main floor and create a brighter, more connected space that fits the way this family lives. The existing hardwood floors were blended and refinished for a seamless transition between old and new, tying the whole space together. Storage and function were at the top of the list. We added dedicated spaces for spices, a mixer, corner pullouts, and small appliances to keep the counters clear and organized. Full-size column refrigerator and freezer units now provide plenty of food storage without sacrificing style. We also improved the light and flow of the space. A small window that faced a brick wall and a non-functioning door were both removed, replaced by a new sliding door that brings in natural light and connects the kitchen to the backyard. The new design combines navy and white cabinetry with brass and orange accents for a look that feels modern but still connected to the home’s midcentury roots. The result is a kitchen that works as beautifully as it looks, filled with smart storage and thoughtful details. Contractor: MAV Design + Build Stylist: Jill Fagan Interiors Photographer: Jacob Hawkins Photography

Spacecrafting Photography
Inspiration for a rustic home gym remodel in Minneapolis

Inspiration for a coastal powder room remodel in Minneapolis

Thoughtfully curated by Lauren Miles Interiors, this family-friendly living room blends comfort, durability, and timeless style.
Example of a mid-sized transitional open concept medium tone wood floor living room design in Burlington with beige walls, a corner fireplace, a wood fireplace surround and a wall-mounted tv

Nestled in the treetops overlooking Lake Sarah, this second-story addition was designed as both a retreat and an extension of home. Elevated above the shoreline, the new spaces immerse the homeowners in the beauty of their surroundings while supporting the rhythm of daily life. The addition introduces a private guest en-suite for visiting family and friends, a quiet office for focused work, a cozy lounge for gathering, a dedicated ceramic studio for making, and an outdoor patio that connects seamlessly to views of the lake and woods. Every space reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle—places where creativity can flourish, where moments of reflection are possible, and where memories with friends and family can be made. Natural light, framed views, and a strong connection to the outdoors guided the design, ensuring that each room feels both purposeful and restorative. Outside, durable cement board siding, anodized aluminum Marvin windows, and composite decking ensure lasting performance. Inside, walnut flooring and custom millwork bring warmth and texture, balancing comfort with modern practicality This project goes beyond adding square footage. It creates a sanctuary—an elevated experience of home where living, creating, and connecting come together in the treetops.

Inspiration for a contemporary kids' room remodel in Los Angeles