Design ideas for a craftsman landscaping in Vancouver.

If you look closely, you can still find rare, curb-less, sand-fringed streets in and around Peregian Beach that serve as a reminder of the Sunshine Coast’s past - a time when life moved at a slower pace. Inspired by the humble fibro beach shacks of our history, Lorilet draws from an era when you could arrive home salty and sandy, toss your board aside, and sink into a depth of relaxation rarely achieved in today’s hectic world. Lorilet is defined by the classic, simple geometry of the traditional "fibro shack." Clad in classic panels and punctuated by subtle accents of colour - a nod to vintage mid-century palettes - the home balances a solid structural presence with soft, textured materiality. From the street, the residence presents as a modest two-storey shack, intentionally disguising its true scale by nesting an entire level of function below street level. Upon arrival, a turf-block path guides visitors toward the front gate and into the arrival court - a curated, light-filled space where a tiled pool and private alfresco redefine the coastal threshold. Here, the design intent becomes clear: Lorilet is an exploration of sightlines and seamless spatial flow. The home is configured to open entirely from the front courtyard, through the central core, to frame uninterrupted vistas of the western mountain ranges. One can sit by the pool and watch the sun set deep behind the distant ranges, looking straight through the heart of the home. While the primary open-plan living spaces remain uncluttered and intentionally simple, the hidden lower level steps down the site to accommodate three bedrooms, including a private guest suite that opens onto the rear garden. Tucked deep within this level, a wine cellar takes advantage of the natural thermal stability of the earth, providing the perfect environment for storage. The uppermost level provides a private domain for work and contemplation. A dedicated office yields ocean views - a necessary distraction and a constant reminder of the surf - while the master suite features an integrated ensuite with sweeping views toward the western ranges. Concealed at the highest point of the structure, an elevated viewing platform offers a solitary vantage point to check the morning swell. Through a focus on setting, occupation, and use, Lorilet explores a narrative of deep connection to both coastal history and its immediate natural environment.

This is an example of an asian landscaping in Vancouver.

Timber frame homes offer unique challenges during a remodel. What often makes them beautiful and attractive to most homeowners, also makes them challenging for space requirements. Context: The lovely couple that owned this home were struggling with some interesting floor plan challenges that just didn't work for their family. The loved the beautiful timbers and woodwork of their home, but the dramatically sloping ceilings on the second floor, particularly in the bathroom, just didn't work for this 1 1/2 bath home. Needing to use the skylight to approach the toilet was a less then ideal scenario. Although the bathroom footprint was more then adequate, the sloped ceiling only made half of the space useable. Check out the Before/After post on our blog to see the photos of the house pre-renovation. As much as they loved all the wood features in their home, another challenge they had was light. The wood ceiling made everything inside the house darker, even with a fantastic array of south facing windows, there were spaces in the home that felt dark and small. When they contacted us they wanted to know how could they make their brighter and more inviting, were there solutions to the 2nd floor sloped ceiling issues, and if they were going to do all of this work, how could they make their home more comfortable and efficient. A nagging water leak in the upstairs bathroom spurred them into action and here is how we solved their dilemma. Conclusion: First, we added a little dormer to the rear of the house so we could get full headroom in nearly all of the upstairs bathroom! Then we decided to extend that dormer one more timber bay over to create a walk in closet with natural light and plenty of space. Since we were contemplating energy efficiency, we resolved a nagging issue that is present in a lot of timber frame construction, air tightness. Commonly found in timber frame construction, fiberglass insulation is installed in the rafter bays and board ceilings are installed over top. Unfortunately, board ceilings are anything but air tight, and fiberglass insulation needs to be in an airtight cavity for maximum effectiveness. So we were able to solve two issues at the same time for this homeowner. We removed the board ceiling and fiberglass insulation, we dense packed the rafter bays with cellulose insulation, and installed sheetrock in place of the boards. The boards were salvaged for re-use by the homeowner, and the space and light quality was dramatically improved. Some may think that losing the board ceiling took something away from the space, but what you'll see in the pictures is that it highly accentuates the heavy timbers and really makes them stand out in a beautiful way. Now with this added airtightness, better insulation, and brighter space, the homeowner hardly runs their wood stove, and it's so quiet in the space, an added bonus from changing the insulation. It became necessary to also add a sheetrock ceiling to the living room to hide the plumbing from the new bathroom layout above. Changing this ceiling gave the homeowner some real quality lighting that was lacking in the living room before. The brighter ceiling and new lighting layout completely transforms the living room into a space you want to hang out, even though the layout didn't change at all. When the homeowner saw the finished spaces she said "I can't believe this is my house, I want to live in this house" Energy Efficiency: I touched a little on the efficiency above, but like all projects done with Mottram Architecture, we always want to leave you with a little extra. Timber frame construction with board ceilings and fiberglass insulation are notoriously leaky! If you want to know what we think about fiberglass insulation, check our our blog post on Why Fiberglass Insulation Sucks. By installing cellulose insulation and covering it with sheetrock we were able to greatly reduce the heat flowing out of this home. It not only improves cashflow it improves the comfort level in the space. Who wants to sit in their living room and feel a draft? Let us remind you, we are not saying cellulose insulation is an air barrier, we use the sheetrock to help with that, but it does significantly reduce the air flow over fiberglass insulation. And when we reduce the airflow, we reduce the heat flow. And when we reduce the heat flow, we reduce the need to re-heat that drafty air from outside. When it comes to energy efficiency the first and best place to start is air infiltration. We greatly reduced the air infiltration with the new insulation, but we also added a hat and warm boots. What I mean by that is, we improved the insulation in the roof, and we installed insulation in the basement. Maybe it's a silly analogy, but when you think about keeping warm, we always start with the hat and boots! With sustainability in mind, the next project will be to add a deck to the front of this house with rain catchment barrels from the metal roof. They are planning to plant a garden in the spring and the rain catchment system will help to irrigate the new garden. Builder: East Shore Builders Photographer: Michael Eric Berube

The Victoria's Study is a harmonious blend of classic and modern elements, creating a refined and inviting space. The walls feature elegant wainscoting that adds a touch of sophistication, complemented by the crisp white millwork and walls, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The focal point of the room is a striking black wood desk, accompanied by a plush black suede chair, offering a comfortable and stylish workspace. Adorning the walls are black and white art pieces, adding an artistic flair to the study's decor. A cozy gray carpet covers the floor, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. A beautiful black and white rug further enhances the room's aesthetics, while a white table lamp illuminates the desk area. Completing the setup, a charming wicker bench and table offer a cozy seating nook, perfect for moments of relaxation and contemplation. The Victoria's Study is a captivating space that perfectly balances elegance and comfort, providing a delightful environment for work and leisure.

Design ideas for an eclectic landscaping in Vancouver.

Inspiration for an asian landscaping in Vancouver.

Rustic and refined meet to give a mountaintop home in Portola Valley, California, classic charm. They say the best things in life come to those who wait. So when a Bay Area couple purchased a rare set of adjoining lots overlooking Windy Hill in Portola Valley, they made frequent visits to the site where they absorbed the views while listening to the land as they contemplated building a home there. The intent: to create a home that would celebrate the scenic beauty of the San Mateo County region. Long before the design process began, the couple committed themselves to preserving as many trees on the land as possible. These trees, two majestic, centuries-old Blue Oaks in particular, ultimately became the impetus for the home’s orientation and the inspiration for its design. Detailed discussions and brainstorming sessions led the owners to discover their own unique tastes: “cozy” and “rustic“ while “contemporary, but not minimal.” The result? Sophisticated style comprised of simple, honest materials.

This stylish office offers a perfect blend of functionality and modern design, creating an inspiring environment for work and contemplation. The impressive Gordon 86" Bookcase provides ample display and storage space, adding a touch of architectural interest to the room. The elegant Knobby Three Drawer Accent Chest offers convenient storage with a unique design. For comfortable seating, two Sheridan Swivel Chairs by Hooker Furniture create an inviting area for reading or quiet thought. This thoughtfully curated collection transforms your office into a sophisticated and productive haven. Transform your workspace into a refined and inspiring environment with these beautiful furnishings!

On a quiet street just steps from San Francisco’s beloved Dolores Park, a formerly modest urban structure has been transformed into a luminous vertical residence that quietly redefines contemporary city living. Through a comprehensive remodel and both vertical and horizontal expansion, the project turns a constrained urban footprint into a sequence of serene, art-forward living spaces that unfold upward toward expansive city views. The architecture balances restraint and warmth: crisp contemporary geometry softened by natural materials, artful lighting, and carefully curated interiors. The result is a home that feels simultaneously grounded and elevated—deeply connected to its neighborhood yet remarkably private. Reimagining the Urban Envelope The original building has been almost entirely reconceived. The facade now reads as a disciplined composition of plaster volumes and precisely detailed window openings framed by subtle projecting bands. The geometry references San Francisco’s classic rhythm of bayed facades while stripping the language down to a refined modern expression. Behind this quiet exterior lies a dramatically expanded interior volume. The redesign adds both additional floor area and new vertical circulation, transforming what was once a conventional city house into a multi-level architectural sequence organized around light, art, and views. At the roofline, planted terraces soften the building’s silhouette and create a green crown visible from surrounding hillsides. Interiors as a Sequence of Galleries Inside, the home unfolds as a series of spatial moments connected by a sculptural stair and gallery-like corridors. Wide plank oak floors run throughout, providing continuity and warmth against a palette of plaster walls, dark steel detailing, and natural stone. The hallways function almost as curated galleries, with layered artworks suspended in front of mesh panels that create depth and subtle shadow. Light filters through carefully placed windows and stair openings, transforming circulation spaces into contemplative transitions rather than mere passageways. A Living Room Anchored by Stone and Light The primary living room occupies one of the home’s central floors, where a quiet interplay of texture and geometry defines the space. A monumental fireplace wrapped in dark stone forms the room’s anchor, its mass contrasting with a recessed ceiling plane that seems to float above the seating area. Integrated perimeter lighting creates a soft architectural glow that washes the ceiling and walls. Furniture is sculptural yet understated—rounded lounge chairs in warm ochre velvet, tailored sofas, and a striking marble cocktail table whose expressive veining becomes a focal artwork in itself. Deep blue carpeting grounds the seating arrangement and subtly absorbs light, enhancing the calm atmosphere. Above the fireplace, a delicate projection artwork introduces a moment of visual poetry—an unexpected cinematic gesture that transforms the wall into a quietly animated canvas. Kitchen as Architectural Furniture The kitchen expresses a different register: crisp, tactile, and materially rich. Custom walnut cabinetry spans the wall in a continuous plane, punctuated only by the sculpted hood and integrated appliances. The wood’s depth and warmth are balanced by expanses of pale marble that flow seamlessly from countertop to backsplash. Three dome pendants hover above the island like industrial sculptures, casting pools of warm light onto the stone surface. A row of vivid red stools introduces a controlled burst of color, a small but confident departure from the otherwise restrained palette. Dining With a Living Backdrop Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining room opens toward a glass wall overlooking a vertical garden of climbing ivy. The greenery becomes a constantly changing backdrop—lush and shadowy during the day, atmospheric and cinematic after sunset. A dark wood table anchors the room, surrounded by pale oak chairs whose understated forms echo Scandinavian design traditions. The simplicity of the furniture allows the view and natural light to become the dominant experience. Intimate Spaces and Material Contrast Throughout the home, smaller rooms offer moments of intimacy and material experimentation. The powder room pairs textured wall coverings with a dramatic black marble vanity whose bold veining feels almost geological. A suspended mirror and slender pendant create a sculptural composition against the tactile backdrop. The primary bedroom, by contrast, feels serene and expansive. Floor-to-ceiling glazing frames sweeping views of the city, while soft textiles and warm wood paneling create a cocooning effect. Slender black columns subtly define a sitting area without interrupting the openness of the space. Bathing Above the City In the primary bathroom, a sculptural freestanding tub sits beside a panoramic window overlooking San Francisco’s hills and rooftops. The room’s palette—light oak, grey stone, and matte metals—reinforces the spa-like atmosphere. Floating cabinetry and integrated lighting maintain a sense of visual lightness despite the richness of the materials. Entertaining Above the Park Higher in the house, a lounge and bar area becomes the social heart of the home. Here, dark stone slabs with dramatic veining wrap the bar wall like a piece of monumental art. Open shelving displays glassware and spirits, while integrated wine storage hints at the home’s entertaining ambitions. A soft leather sectional and low glass table create a relaxed setting for conversation, framed by expansive views of the city skyline. Cinema and Retreat The lower level introduces yet another atmosphere: a dedicated media room designed for immersive viewing. Dark walls, plush seating, and soft lighting create a cinematic environment that contrasts intentionally with the airy upper floors. It’s a retreat within the home—intimate, quiet, and removed from the brightness above. Architecture That Balances Discipline and Warmth What makes the project particularly compelling is its balance between architectural discipline and lived warmth. Every element—from the carefully framed views to the restrained material palette—contributes to a cohesive spatial narrative. Yet the home never feels austere. Natural materials, curated art, and layered lighting create a sense of comfort and depth. The result is a house that feels both architecturally rigorous and deeply human. A Contemporary Interpretation of San Francisco Living In a neighborhood defined by historic homes and iconic park views, this transformation offers a contemporary interpretation of San Francisco living. It respects the city’s urban density while embracing openness, light, and vertical living. The home rises quietly above its surroundings, culminating in panoramic vistas that stretch across rooftops, hills, and sky. What began as a conventional structure has become something far more nuanced: a modern urban sanctuary—part gallery, part retreat, and wholly connected to the vibrant city just beyond its walls.

Eclectic patio photo in Vancouver

https://pipafineart.com/pages/california-dreamin-photorealistic-coastal-digital-artwork-prints-and-backgrounds This captivating photorealistic digital artwork, "California Dreamin'," transports you to a vibrant coastal sunset, rendered with breathtaking detail that blurs the line between painting and photograph. The scene is dominated by the expansive ocean, with powerful waves crashing onto a sandy shore in the foreground. The foam of the receding wave nearest to you is particularly striking, catching the golden light of the setting sun and glowing with an ethereal luminescence. The water itself, further out, transitions from a rich turquoise closer to the shore to deeper blues where the waves are building. Dynamic splashes and whitecaps convey the raw energy of the sea, inviting you to almost hear the roar of the surf. The horizon is a dramatic interplay of light and color. The sun, a brilliant orb of intense orange and yellow, is perfectly positioned, casting a dazzling reflection across the water's surface that stretches towards you. Above the horizon, the sky is a masterpiece of atmospheric beauty. Large, voluminous clouds are painted with fiery oranges and deep reds where they catch the direct sunlight, transitioning to soft blues and grays as they stretch towards the upper edges of the frame. This dramatic cloudscape adds immense depth and mood to the artwork, creating a sense of both grandeur and peacefulness. The meticulous attention to light, from the shimmering reflections on the water to the radiant glow filtering through the clouds, is a hallmark of this digital artwork's photorealistic quality. The overall composition balances the dynamic motion of the waves with the serene beauty of the sunset, creating a visually rich and emotionally evocative piece. "California Dreamin'" is exceptionally versatile and would enhance a variety of decorating styles. Its natural subject matter and vibrant yet calming color palette make it an ideal fit for Coastal or Beach House decor, instantly transforming a room into a serene seaside retreat. For Bohemian interiors, its dramatic colors and natural theme resonate with an adventurous spirit and eclectic charm. In Modern or Contemporary settings, the artwork's clean lines and striking visual impact can serve as a powerful focal point, adding a burst of color and organic form. Even in Transitional or Eclectic spaces, it provides a beautiful balance, blending classic beauty with a contemporary feel. The artwork's ability to evoke relaxation and wonder makes it a fantastic addition to numerous rooms. It would be a magnificent centerpiece in a Living Room, particularly over a sofa or fireplace, where its expansive view could invite conversation and contemplation. In a Bedroom, its tranquil yet dynamic energy could foster a sense of peace and inspiration, perfect for unwinding. For a Home Office or Study, "California Dreamin'" offers a captivating visual escape, providing a refreshing backdrop that promotes calm and creativity. It could also make a striking first impression in a Hallway or Entryway, welcoming guests with its breathtaking beauty.

Welcome to the Garden of Tranquility, a serene retreat where nature and tranquility harmoniously coexist. Nestled within this sanctuary, you will discover a captivating Zen garden, an oasis of serenity and peace. The Zen garden, meticulously designed and carefully curated, immerses you in a realm of simplicity and balance. Smooth gravel ripples like waves, symbolizing tranquility, while meticulously placed stones create a sense of harmony and order. The garden invites you to stroll along meandering pathways, inviting contemplation and mindfulness with every step.

The goal of this project was to craft clean lines, gentle flows, and seasonal texture within an established woodland setting. Challenges arose from dappled light and deer pressure, along with the need for minimal irrigation. These conditions inspired us to create a woodland meadow enriched with understory birches, flowering shrubs, part-shade perennials, and spring bulbs. The inclusion of woodland ephemerals, stepping-stone paths and strategically-placed boulders enhanced the opportunity for quiet contemplation and wildlife observation. The crisp, curved edges of the tightly-jointed walks invite you into the garden while clearly defining maintenance areas. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

A cozy corner for contemplation. Photo by Barry Calhoun
Inspiration for a contemporary open concept dark wood floor living room remodel in Vancouver

The foundation of every remarkable project lies in purposeful design. Our team embarked on a journey to infuse functionality and aesthetic allure into this modest outdoor canvas. The result is a symphony of lines and spaces that coalesce seamlessly, enhancing the perception of space and utility. Maximizing every inch was pivotal in this endeavor. We can't stress enough how crucial it is to think about the flow of the space. Every inch was carefully considered to ensure smooth movement from the pool area to the cozy lounging spots and the lush garden corners. It's like a dance - effortless and inviting! In the world of making awesome designs happen, challenges are invitations for innovation. The constricted canvas of a compact backyard ignited our creativity, resulting in an oasis that exemplifies elegance in limitations. If you're contemplating what your space can become, let this project be your inspiration - a testament that exceptional design knows no bounds.

A serene moment of indoor-outdoor living, showcasing a cozy bed positioned directly against a large, slanted window. The contrast between the warm, earthen tones of the bedding and the cool, lush greenery of the forest creates a sense of tranquil seclusion. By framing the dense woods and distant hills as a living backdrop, the scene emphasizes a harmonious connection with nature and the luxury of quiet contemplation. Ultimately, this home serves to evoke the peaceful atmosphere of a modern wilderness retreat in Franklin, NC designed for rest and observation.

In this natural backyard oasis, a serene bronze Buddha statue takes center stage, enveloped by the majestic presence of natural mountains, lush trees, and vibrant plants. The atmosphere exudes tranquility and spirituality, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As you step into this enchanting space, the sight of the bronze Buddha amidst the surrounding beauty immediately soothes the soul. The statue stands as a symbol of peace and enlightenment, inviting contemplation and introspection. Embracing the scene are awe-inspiring natural mountains that rise in the distance, commanding a sense of grandeur and wonder. Their presence instills a feeling of being one with nature, fostering a deep connection to the earth. Amidst the verdant surroundings, an inviting seating area awaits with light brown chairs, designed for relaxation and appreciation of the breathtaking scenery. Here, you can unwind and immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of nature, allowing the mind to find solace and serenity. Every corner of this natural haven boasts an abundance of greenery, with trees and plants in a harmonious dance of life. The foliage provides a refreshing respite, filling the air with the invigorating scents of the outdoors. As the sun sets, the backyard transforms into a magical retreat. The bronze Buddha, nestled amidst the natural landscape, seems to glow with an ethereal radiance. The play of light and shadows enhances the sense of tranquility, enveloping the space in a calming aura. This backyard sanctuary is a place where one can reconnect with oneself and find inner peace. It celebrates the beauty of nature, the wisdom of the Buddha, and the essence of life's simplicity. It's a place to unwind, meditate, and savor the wonders of the natural world, providing a sanctuary to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.

Bill Gregory
Craftsman exterior home idea in Los Angeles