A complete full gut remodel of a 4,000 sq ft two-story penthouse residence, this project featured one of a kind views of the Boston public garden and Beacon Hill. A large central gallery flooded with gorgeous diffused light through two full stories of window glass. Clean linear millwork details compliment the structural glass, steel and walnut balustrades and handrailings that grace the upper gallery, reading nook, and stairs. A bleached walnut wet bar with backlit honey onyx backsplash and floating star fire glass shelves illuminated the lower gallery. It was part of a larger motif, which resonated through each of the unique and separate living spaces, connecting them to the larger design intention. A bleached walnut media room doubles as a fourth bedroom. It features a king size murphy bed seamlessly integrated into the full wall panel. A gracious shower in the adjoining bathroom, cleverly concealed behind an innocuous interior door, created a truly unique formal powder room that can reveal a full bath when the house is full of guests. A blend of warm wood, soft whites, and a palate of golds reflected in the stone (calacatta/onyx) textiles and wall coverings, this project demonstrates the powerful results of a consistent design intention, thoughtful engineering, and best practice construction as executed by our talented team of craftsmen and women. Interior Design - Lewis Interiors Photography - Eric Roth

We always say that a powder room is the “gift” you give to the guests in your home; a special detail here and there, a touch of color added, and the space becomes a delight! This custom beauty, completed in January 2020, was carefully crafted through many construction drawings and meetings. We intentionally created a shallower depth along both sides of the sink area in order to accommodate the location of the door openings. (The right side of the image leads to the foyer, while the left leads to a closet water closet room.) We even had the casing/trim applied after the countertop was installed in order to bring the marble in one piece! Setting the height of the wall faucet and wall outlet for the exposed P-Trap meant careful calculation and precise templating along the way, with plenty of interior construction drawings. But for such detail, it was well worth it. From the book-matched miter on our black and white marble, to the wall mounted faucet in matte black, each design element is chosen to play off of the stacked metallic wall tile and scones. Our homeowners were thrilled with the results, and we think their guests are too!

The scale, massing, texture, and use of materials attempted to compliment the natural environment. The use of pole barn post and beam construction methods intentionally reduced the impact of the built form on the indigenous landscape. The use of galvanized steel, rough sawn fir and cedar, concrete block, and industrial hardware shaped the building form to reference the regional vernacular of south central Montana, and were intended to weather and take on the patina similar to built forms found throughout the area built around the turn of the century. J.K. Lawrence Photography

This stunning master bathroom started with a creative reconfiguration of space, but it’s the wall of shimmering blue dimensional tile that really makes this a “statement” bathroom. The homeowners’, parents of two boys, wanted to add a master bedroom and bath onto the main floor of their classic mid-century home. Their objective was to be close to their kids’ rooms, but still have a quiet and private retreat. To obtain space for the master suite, the construction was designed to add onto the rear of their home. This was done by expanding the interior footprint into their existing outside corner covered patio. To create a sizeable suite, we also utilized the current interior footprint of their existing laundry room, adjacent to the patio. The design also required rebuilding the exterior walls of the kitchen nook which was adjacent to the back porch. Our clients rounded out the updated rear home design by installing all new windows along the back wall of their living and dining rooms. Once the structure was formed, our design team worked with the homeowners to fill in the space with luxurious elements to form their desired retreat with universal design in mind. The selections were intentional, mixing modern-day comfort and amenities with 1955 architecture. The shower was planned to be accessible and easy to use at the couple ages in place. Features include a curb-less, walk-in shower with a wide shower door. We also installed two shower fixtures, a handheld unit and showerhead. To brighten the room without sacrificing privacy, a clearstory window was installed high in the shower and the room is topped off with a skylight. For ultimate comfort, heated floors were installed below the silvery gray wood-plank floor tiles which run throughout the entire room and into the shower! Additional features include custom cabinetry in rich walnut with horizontal grain and white quartz countertops. In the shower, oversized white subway tiles surround a mermaid-like soft-blue tile niche, and at the vanity the mirrors are surrounded by boomerang-shaped ultra-glossy marine blue tiles. These create a dramatic focal point. Serene and spectacular.

This fast pace second level addition in Lakeview has received a lot of attention in this quite neighborhood by neighbors and house visitors. Ana Borden designed the second level addition on this previous one story residence and drew from her experience completing complicated multi-million dollar institutional projects. The overall project, including designing the second level addition included tieing into the existing conditions in order to preserve the remaining exterior lot for a new pool. The Architect constructed a three dimensional model in Revit to convey to the Clients the design intent while adhering to all required building codes. The challenge also included providing roof slopes within the allowable existing chimney distances, stair clearances, desired room sizes and working with the structural engineer to design connections and structural member sizes to fit the constraints listed above. Also, extensive coordination was required for the second addition, including supports designed by the structural engineer in conjunction with the existing pre and post tensioned slab. The Architect’s intent was also to create a seamless addition that appears to have been part of the existing residence while not impacting the remaining lot. Overall, the final construction fulfilled the Client’s goals of adding a bedroom and bathroom as well as additional storage space within their time frame and, of course, budget. Smart Media

This fast pace second level addition in Lakeview has received a lot of attention in this quite neighborhood by neighbors and house visitors. Ana Borden designed the second level addition on this previous one story residence and drew from her experience completing complicated multi-million dollar institutional projects. The overall project, including designing the second level addition included tieing into the existing conditions in order to preserve the remaining exterior lot for a new pool. The Architect constructed a three dimensional model in Revit to convey to the Clients the design intent while adhering to all required building codes. The challenge also included providing roof slopes within the allowable existing chimney distances, stair clearances, desired room sizes and working with the structural engineer to design connections and structural member sizes to fit the constraints listed above. Also, extensive coordination was required for the second addition, including supports designed by the structural engineer in conjunction with the existing pre and post tensioned slab. The Architect’s intent was also to create a seamless addition that appears to have been part of the existing residence while not impacting the remaining lot. Overall, the final construction fulfilled the Client’s goals of adding a bedroom and bathroom as well as additional storage space within their time frame and, of course, budget. Smart Media

This fast pace second level addition in Lakeview has received a lot of attention in this quite neighborhood by neighbors and house visitors. Ana Borden designed the second level addition on this previous one story residence and drew from her experience completing complicated multi-million dollar institutional projects. The overall project, including designing the second level addition included tieing into the existing conditions in order to preserve the remaining exterior lot for a new pool. The Architect constructed a three dimensional model in Revit to convey to the Clients the design intent while adhering to all required building codes. The challenge also included providing roof slopes within the allowable existing chimney distances, stair clearances, desired room sizes and working with the structural engineer to design connections and structural member sizes to fit the constraints listed above. Also, extensive coordination was required for the second addition, including supports designed by the structural engineer in conjunction with the existing pre and post tensioned slab. The Architect’s intent was also to create a seamless addition that appears to have been part of the existing residence while not impacting the remaining lot. Overall, the final construction fulfilled the Client’s goals of adding a bedroom and bathroom as well as additional storage space within their time frame and, of course, budget. Smart Media

This modern primary bedroom combines calm tones and strong architectural details. The dark accent wall and exposed beam create depth, while natural light floods through sliding doors that open to the backyard blending indoor serenity with outdoor connection.

A bold yet calming retreat, this bedroom combines rich, deep blue walls with pale hardwood floors to create a striking contrast that remains serene. The clean lines of the architecture frame a large glass door, opening directly to a private terrace and inviting natural light to soften the richness of the color palette. The choice of blue isn't accidental — it brings a sense of grounded tranquility, perfect for a primary or guest suite. Paired with matte black accents in lighting and hardware, the room's modern aesthetic feels intentional, curated, and elevated. The pale wood underfoot adds warmth, balancing the cool sophistication of the walls and ensuring the space feels inviting rather than austere. In its simplicity, this bedroom becomes a refuge. The restrained materials and colors highlight the home's broader commitment to contemporary design principles, where every element serves both function and beauty.

This fast pace second level addition in Lakeview has received a lot of attention in this quite neighborhood by neighbors and house visitors. Ana Borden designed the second level addition on this previous one story residence and drew from her experience completing complicated multi-million dollar institutional projects. The overall project, including designing the second level addition included tieing into the existing conditions in order to preserve the remaining exterior lot for a new pool. The Architect constructed a three dimensional model in Revit to convey to the Clients the design intent while adhering to all required building codes. The challenge also included providing roof slopes within the allowable existing chimney distances, stair clearances, desired room sizes and working with the structural engineer to design connections and structural member sizes to fit the constraints listed above. Also, extensive coordination was required for the second addition, including supports designed by the structural engineer in conjunction with the existing pre and post tensioned slab. The Architect’s intent was also to create a seamless addition that appears to have been part of the existing residence while not impacting the remaining lot. Overall, the final construction fulfilled the Client’s goals of adding a bedroom and bathroom as well as additional storage space within their time frame and, of course, budget. Smart Media

The Saint Albert The Great, Newman Center project is a multiple phased project that includes the development of a new church and teaching facility. The first phase of the project involved the demolition of housing adjacent to the existing facility. A new chuch is intended to be built on this site. The church design includes a large seating area for visitors with vaulted ceilings and diffused day-lighting. Additional spaces included within the church design are: an entrance lobby with a gift shop and coffee shop, an exterior yard/ colombarium, a marian, a sacrisity, a multi-purpose room, an audio room and a reconciliation room. The overall design intent of the project was to create a modern church facility with traditional aspects that relate to the established image of the Saint Albert the Great Church and the missionary architectural style of the region. The second phase of the project includes the construction of “Ministry” for the campus. This facility houses a mult-purpose teaching space as well as a recreational area for youth. Additionally, the new facility aims to distribute food to the needy through a bodega and a small kitchen. This phase of the project involves some demolition and renovations to the existing Newman Center facility. The final phase of the project includes the construction of the Education Building for the campus. This facility is equipped with multiple teaching and office spaces for the Church’s youth education programs. The design intent for this facility was to appeal to the youth through the use of modern and inviting design elements.

The Roger Lee designed house from 1962 was purchased by the current homeowners in almost original condition, as the previous owners elected to defer most maintenance projects over the years. The clients were able to see beyond the dated materials and finishes, single-paned glass and uninsulated walls and they approached Klopf Architecture to help them expand and update the entire home, one the family could settle into and enjoy for years to come. It was important that the new designs were aligned with Lee's original intent not only because of the client's appreciation for mid-century modern architecture, but also because the house was deemed historical. The Stanford Real Estate Office requires a stringent design review which safeguards the integrity of the community, which Klopf Architecture was happy to oblige going into their updated designs. As with many original mid-century modern homes, the house was scaled to the 1960s lifestyle where rooms were smaller and openings to views were limited and tightly framed. The original conditions defined the direction the family of four would take in updating the house and making it comfortable for their modern lifestyle. Klopf designed a full gut remodel and major addition to bring the house into the 21st century and provide the living area needed for the client's family. The newly expanded house added just about 1,100 sf to create an airy, comfortable and family friendly house, taking full advantage of the beautiful southwestern views that extend out to the hills beyond. The enclosed garage created an additional 240 sf of covered space for long-term storage. A cracked swimming pool created an eyesore taking up a majority of the backyard landscape, so it was one of the first elements to go during the transformation. Working with Outer Space Landscape Architects, the family asked for a mix of relaxing outdoor patio spaces that eventually blend into the native landscaping, extending their views outward toward the natural greenery of the trees beyond their property. Filling in the old pool was a smart way to expand the living spaces outward. The orientation of the house was designed to enjoy the views, but the original architecture provided the first homeowners with mere glimpses of the landscape outside. Klopf was able to broaden those views, continuing and extending on the original architecture to take full advantage of the unobstructed natural views across the rear facade of the house. Small horizontal openings in the primary bedroom and office were replaced with much taller windows that now follow the angled roof line upward, extending across almost all of the facade. We worked with Western Windows, whose designs included an oblique-shaped, operable casement that allowed our design to rise with the slope. A new corner office added to the primary suite, offers a bright and functional work-from-home solution that looks out at the distant views and added natural light from the expanded window configuration that now wraps around the corner. The existing lower level was designed by Lee as a utilitarian space, serving as a wet pool room with a drain in the center of the floor, bathroom, laundry and storage areas. Without the need for a pool room, Klopf was able to convert the area into a much more comfortable and functional living space with a new family room and guest suite. The new spaces enjoy easy access to a new outdoor patio through floor to ceiling, full-width glass sliders. Continuing along the rear facade, a previously exposed deck extending from the living room and hallway provided access to the backyard through a single set of stairs leading toward the side of the house which made sense when the pool was in place. The new deck was re-envisioned as an extension of the main living room and now serves as a second outdoor living room. A new slatted pergola above provides the homeowners welcome relief from the hot afternoon sun. A second set of stairs now creates a better connection to the redesigned lower level. Klopf was able to reconfigure the spaces, extending the living room outward toward the views, where the family now claims it as the heart of the home, spending a large majority of their time outdoors. Back inside, the original wood-burning Malm fireplace was beautifully restored and a gas burner installed to comply with California's strict air standards. It now rests in front of a wall of Heath accent tiles where a dated red brick wall used to stand. A new taller window brings more light and views into the refreshed interior living room. The original glass doors opposite the fireplace were replaced by larger sliders that when fully opened, create a seamless transition to the new outdoor living area so the two spaces feel like one connected space. The original utilitarian kitchen was needlessly tucked into the far back corner and closed-off, out of sight from the living room, so the clients asked Klopf to open it up and expand the kitchen forward so it felt more connected. Today the much larger kitchen is connected to the living area where a short wall with a cutout offers a visual glimpse into the kitchen and a handy pass-through counter for serving guests. A new breakfast nook was also added to create another spot where the family can gather for casual meals. Just outside, a new built-in outdoor grill and prep area extends the kitchen outside and connects to a new outdoor dining spot nestled amongst the trees, taking advantage of the views out back. Klopf was able to expand the other two bedrooms, add a new laundry room and half-bath and convert the carport to an enclosed garage to add more storage areas which was lost when the pool house was converted to the family and guest room. To maintain a historical connection to the original designs, the exterior siding was repeated on all exterior walls, a full-height stained glass window at the front entryway restored, and an interior slatted screen element repeated outside at the exterior entry courtyard and over the new outdoor living room to create a shade trellis. The new house stands proudly and shines against it's new landscaping features, while respecting and expanding on the original intent of Roger Lee's designs epitomizing the comforts of indoor-outdoor living in Northern California. Completion year: 2020 Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane, Noel Andrade Contractor: ORB Construction, Brendan O'Reilly Structural engineer: Sezen and Moon Landscape architect: Outer space Furnishings and decoration: Urbanism Designs Photographer: Mariko Reed

The design intent for this graceful contemporary home was an approach toward minimalism, yet ensuring that the practical needs of day-to-day life could still be satisfied. Situated on a plateau atop a steep hill, the floor plan and glass walls beautifully incorporated the outdoor environment into the primary living spaces. The grounds were carpeted with sage and lavender. Project Architect: Lisa Wang. Wang Architecture Landscape Architect: Paul Leffingwell. Leffingwell and Associates Interior Design: Karen Goldberg. Studio G Design Structural Engineer: John Yadegar. JYASF Builder: Shahram Ghodsian. Trush Construction Company Photography: Jason Wells, Golden Gate Creative

This custom-built floating staircase makes a bold architectural statement at the heart of the home. Designed and built by New Explode Construction, it features sleek black stringers and warm oak treads, anchored by a vertical slatted wood feature wall that adds texture, light control, and sculptural beauty. The open risers enhance visibility and airiness, contributing to the seamless vertical connection between floors. A modern showpiece that reflects both craftsmanship and confidence, this stairway is as functional as it is striking. Contemporary Staircase, Floating Stairs, Slatted Wood Wall, Open Risers, Architectural Stairs, Custom Staircase, Statement Staircase, Boutique Builder, NEC Chicago, Vertical Wood Screen, Wood And Steel Design, Modern Home Feature, Interior Architecture, Lake Forest Homes, Sculptural Staircase, Sleek Interiors, Clean Lines, Elevated Design, Entryway Focal Point, Light Filled Interiors, Oak Treads, Black Stringer, Industrial Modern, Warm Minimalism, Natural Texture, Contemporary Architecture, Tailored Interiors, Vertical Flow, Seamless Living, Modern Design Detail, Stairway Inspiration, High End Renovation, Functional Art, Built With Intention, Stair Goals, Modern Woodwork, Custom Millwork, Refined Interiors, New Explode Construction

Here we had to come up with a creative way to address the fact that the door to the primary ensuite intersected with one of the gambrels. No one really wanted to just cut the corner of the door off so we decided to use a segmented top, playing off the mid century curves to make it look intentional. That also allowed us to reduce the height of this door by 2" relative to the rest of the doors so that the cut casing was less than it othewise would have been.

his executive residence stands apart with striking design elements rarely found elsewhere. From the moment you step inside, you're met with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the home in natural light from morning to night even on the dullest of days. The space is artfully constructed around light, volume, and flow, with four open skylights on the second level pouring light through to the main floor a brilliant and intentional design choice that enhances connection across the homes two storeys.The main floor is a showpiece of sophisticated living and entertaining, anchored by a sleek chefs kitchen featuring a built-in wine rack, ample custom cabinetry, and an inspiring layout. Thoughtful touches like the second-level office nook provide a balance of form and function for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find four generously sized bedrooms, including a serene principal retreat with a spa-inspired ensuite a space designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate.The fully legal lower-level suite offers unmatched versatility and style. With heated floors, oversized windows, a separate entrance and HVAC system, and a walkout to a private sitting area, its an ideal in-law suite, guest retreat, or luxurious mortgage helper perfect for multigenerational families or discerning investors. Located in a warm, established, and community-oriented neighbourhood where families put down roots for generations

his executive residence stands apart with striking design elements rarely found elsewhere. From the moment you step inside, you're met with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the home in natural light from morning to night even on the dullest of days. The space is artfully constructed around light, volume, and flow, with four open skylights on the second level pouring light through to the main floor a brilliant and intentional design choice that enhances connection across the homes two storeys.The main floor is a showpiece of sophisticated living and entertaining, anchored by a sleek chefs kitchen featuring a built-in wine rack, ample custom cabinetry, and an inspiring layout. Thoughtful touches like the second-level office nook provide a balance of form and function for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find four generously sized bedrooms, including a serene principal retreat with a spa-inspired ensuite a space designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate.The fully legal lower-level suite offers unmatched versatility and style. With heated floors, oversized windows, a separate entrance and HVAC system, and a walkout to a private sitting area, its an ideal in-law suite, guest retreat, or luxurious mortgage helper perfect for multigenerational families or discerning investors. Located in a warm, established, and community-oriented neighbourhood where families put down roots for generations

his executive residence stands apart with striking design elements rarely found elsewhere. From the moment you step inside, you're met with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the home in natural light from morning to night even on the dullest of days. The space is artfully constructed around light, volume, and flow, with four open skylights on the second level pouring light through to the main floor a brilliant and intentional design choice that enhances connection across the homes two storeys.The main floor is a showpiece of sophisticated living and entertaining, anchored by a sleek chefs kitchen featuring a built-in wine rack, ample custom cabinetry, and an inspiring layout. Thoughtful touches like the second-level office nook provide a balance of form and function for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find four generously sized bedrooms, including a serene principal retreat with a spa-inspired ensuite a space designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate.The fully legal lower-level suite offers unmatched versatility and style. With heated floors, oversized windows, a separate entrance and HVAC system, and a walkout to a private sitting area, its an ideal in-law suite, guest retreat, or luxurious mortgage helper perfect for multigenerational families or discerning investors. Located in a warm, established, and community-oriented neighbourhood where families put down roots for generations

his executive residence stands apart with striking design elements rarely found elsewhere. From the moment you step inside, you're met with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the home in natural light from morning to night even on the dullest of days. The space is artfully constructed around light, volume, and flow, with four open skylights on the second level pouring light through to the main floor a brilliant and intentional design choice that enhances connection across the homes two storeys.The main floor is a showpiece of sophisticated living and entertaining, anchored by a sleek chefs kitchen featuring a built-in wine rack, ample custom cabinetry, and an inspiring layout. Thoughtful touches like the second-level office nook provide a balance of form and function for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find four generously sized bedrooms, including a serene principal retreat with a spa-inspired ensuite a space designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate.The fully legal lower-level suite offers unmatched versatility and style. With heated floors, oversized windows, a separate entrance and HVAC system, and a walkout to a private sitting area, its an ideal in-law suite, guest retreat, or luxurious mortgage helper perfect for multigenerational families or discerning investors. Located in a warm, established, and community-oriented neighbourhood where families put down roots for generations