Search results for "Continually enhancing" in Home Design Ideas

This client of ours loves to entertain. We were commissioned to completely redesign his backyard space to include a Pavilion, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit area. Preparation for this work included demolishing existing deteriorated concrete and a non-functioning Koi pond.
We decided on a 12′ x 14′ layout for the Cedar Pavilion. Sconce lighting, infrared heating, and a ceiling fan were added to the scope of the Pavilion project to maximize the space’s usability. For the outdoor kitchen, we chose a 38″ Delta Heat unit for the grill with matching access doors, a 20K BTU Hestan Side Burner, and a Hestan Refrigerator. We chose soapstone for the countertop and backsplash, and we veneered the kitchen structure with natural San Miguel cobblestone.
The construction of the fire pit area required engineering measures to prevent damage to the nearby pine trees’ root systems from the planned improvements. This was accomplished by designing a sophisticated ventilation system installed under the patio and seat wall to allow the tree roots to continue breathing.
The firepit and surrounding seat wall were constructed of CMU block and veneered with natural San Miguel stone from Telluride. Light fixtures from Unique Lighting were discreetly tucked under the seat wall cap to enhance the area’s nighttime ambiance. Large decorative mossback landscape boulders were imported to create visual interest in the setting. The plant selection for the project included ‘Panchito’ Manzanita, Dwarf Burning Bush, ‘Isanti’ Dogwood, ‘White Bud’ Mugo Pine, Japanese Astilbe, ‘Blue Giant’ Hosta, and Variegated Iris.

These bespoke fitted alcove TV, display and storage cabinets were handcrafted by Claude Clémaron for a period property in southwest London. The green-painted oak cabinetry provides a variety of open and concealed storage. Tall bifold doors are designed to hide the large black TV screen when it’s not in use and maintain the aesthetic of the living space.
The made to measure, floor to ceiling cabinets have been made in natural oak and painted green, in a deep, heritage shade. The spray painted matt finish retains the beautiful appearance of the oak wood’s grain and texture. The painted finish is Green Smoke no 47 by Farrow and Ball, a smoky green, popular in late 19th century interiors. LED lights enhance the units with a subtle glow, while also illuminating the items on display.
Timeless craftsmanship for classic interiors
The classic bespoke built-in cabinetry features fluted pilasters, decorative elements resembling a column and the mark of fine craftsmanship. Flutes are vertical concave grooves carved into the surface of the pilaster, adding texture and visual interest to the pilaster and bringing a luxuriously elegant look to the cabinetry. The lower cupboards feature soft closing, push to open doors, handle-free doors. This has the effect of a panelled look without the distraction of extra hardware.
Bespoke solid oak library ladder
The beautifully crafted library ladder enables the user to reach the upper shelves of the cabinets. The ladder hooks on to the handmade aged black steel rails incorporated onto the cabinets. Made in solid oak for strength, stability and style, the ladder will last for decades.
Built in fire surround with mantle
We created a simple built in integrated fire surround with a shallow decorative mantle for the existing wood burner stove. The fake chimneybreast for the fireplace has a distinctive panel design and visually connects the two alcove cabinets to appear as one continuous wall fitment.

Castaway
An Oceanfront Residence
Clearwater, Florida
This breathtaking ocean-front family vacation retreat is positioned between the beach and harbor, an idyllic haven offering panoramic sunset views that will leave you in awe. Our mission was simple yet profound: to let the natural beauty of the surroundings shine while infusing the interior with elements that evoke the tranquility of the ocean.
Drawing inspiration from the sandy shores, we embraced white-washed wood veneers and wood-look porcelain tile flooring, chosen for their practicality and resilience, especially for a space frequented by energetic grandkids. To add a twist of creativity, we installed the tiles in a unique pattern, inviting you to "walk along the plank" towards the mesmerizing vistas.
The dining room serves as a tribute to the couple's engagement in Santorini, adorned with canvas prints of photos taken during these cherished memories. In the dining room and master bedroom, we meticulously selected the perfect "Santorini blue" tones for the accent walls to continue to narrate their story.
Crafted with Treefrog veneers, the custom millwork combines elegance with durability, while the bathrooms exude a spa-like serenity with their natural textures and sandy hues, enhanced by thoughtful lighting.
For the kids' room, we embraced vibrant colors and durable materials, ensuring a space where creativity knows no bounds. Meanwhile, the guest bedroom invites tropical relaxation with its palm leaf motifs and organic accents.
Overall, our design ethos revolves around a light and airy color palette, inspired by the tranquil hues of sand and sea. Strategic pops of color breathe life and vibrancy into the space, creating the perfect atmosphere for a dreamy vacation home experience. Join us as we embark on a journey to transform your space into a coastal paradise!
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Situated within the exclusive enclave of Tuhaye, this magnificent guest home stands as a testament to bespoke luxury and innovative design. This cozy hideaway home exudes understated luxury in an efficient layout that maximizes the functionality and elevates the property into an estate home.
Upon entry, one is immediately struck by a custom metal inlaid staircase, not merely a means of transit but a work of art that marries form with function. This staircase, with its intricate metalwork, ascends through the home, guiding one's gaze across the bespoke details that define each space.
The architectural journey continues into the salon with soaring high, tongue and groove clad ceilings that amplify the sense of space and luxury, drawing the eye out to the commanding views of the majestic surrounding mountains. The interior exudes a refined elegance, where every element has been custom-crafted to perfection. Custom vanities in each bathroom are not just functional but art pieces, showcasing the finest materials and craftsmanship.
The secret speakeasy-style golf suite is a luxurious retreat hidden behind an unassuming space in the home, where guests can enjoy a personalized golfing experience after a morning on the slopes. This unique feature is complemented by a compact kitchen, tailored to the highest standards with state-of-the-art appliances and finishes that cater to the most discerning tastes.
The seamless indoor-outdoor living experience is enhanced by the thoughtful design that allows the natural beauty of the landscape to become an integral part of the home’s ambiance. The use of natural materials, combined with the panoramic views, fosters an environment where luxury and nature harmoniously coexist, providing a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Modern Luxe Bathroom
*A concealed toilette room door*
A harmonious blend of modern minimalism and refined luxury, this spa-inspired bathroom was designed to evoke a sense of serenity and sophistication. Wrapped in exquisite marble, every surface seamlessly flows, enhancing the sense of continuity and elegance.
The floating vanity, framed with natural stone and featuring under-cabinet lighting, creates a soft, ambient glow, adding to the airy and weightless aesthetic. A sculptural freestanding tub serves as the room’s centerpiece, reinforcing the spa-like atmosphere.
Thoughtfully integrated built-in shelving ensures functionality without disrupting the clean, streamlined design, while custom glass sconces add warmth and a touch of timeless elegance. The result is a sanctuary of relaxation and contemporary refinement, where every detail is meticulously curated for both beauty and practicality.
Bringing visions to life. ✨
This stunning project began with the plans of the renowned architect Philip Hazan, and I had the honor of turning those plans into reality by managing the project and handling the interior design.
It started with guiding the clients through selecting the perfect stone, materials, color palette, plumbing fixtures, and other essential elements. I worked closely to tweak the cabinetry and millwork designs to reflect their unique style while ensuring functionality.
For this ensuite transformation, I began by meticulously planning the execution—creating a detailed budget, timeline, and schedule—and selecting the best skilled teams to deliver an upscale result. From complete demolition to rebuilding from the skeleton, I was on-site every single day, ensuring every design detail was executed to perfection.

Situated within the exclusive enclave of Tuhaye, this magnificent guest home stands as a testament to bespoke luxury and innovative design. This cozy hideaway home exudes understated luxury in an efficient layout that maximizes the functionality and elevates the property into an estate home.
Upon entry, one is immediately struck by a custom metal inlaid staircase, not merely a means of transit but a work of art that marries form with function. This staircase, with its intricate metalwork, ascends through the home, guiding one's gaze across the bespoke details that define each space.
The architectural journey continues into the salon with soaring high, tongue and groove clad ceilings that amplify the sense of space and luxury, drawing the eye out to the commanding views of the majestic surrounding mountains. The interior exudes a refined elegance, where every element has been custom-crafted to perfection. Custom vanities in each bathroom are not just functional but art pieces, showcasing the finest materials and craftsmanship.
The secret speakeasy-style golf suite is a luxurious retreat hidden behind an unassuming space in the home, where guests can enjoy a personalized golfing experience after a morning on the slopes. This unique feature is complemented by a compact kitchen, tailored to the highest standards with state-of-the-art appliances and finishes that cater to the most discerning tastes.
The seamless indoor-outdoor living experience is enhanced by the thoughtful design that allows the natural beauty of the landscape to become an integral part of the home’s ambiance. The use of natural materials, combined with the panoramic views, fosters an environment where luxury and nature harmoniously coexist, providing a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Situated within the exclusive enclave of Tuhaye, this magnificent guest home stands as a testament to bespoke luxury and innovative design. This cozy hideaway home exudes understated luxury in an efficient layout that maximizes the functionality and elevates the property into an estate home.
Upon entry, one is immediately struck by a custom metal inlaid staircase, not merely a means of transit but a work of art that marries form with function. This staircase, with its intricate metalwork, ascends through the home, guiding one's gaze across the bespoke details that define each space.
The architectural journey continues into the salon with soaring high, tongue and groove clad ceilings that amplify the sense of space and luxury, drawing the eye out to the commanding views of the majestic surrounding mountains. The interior exudes a refined elegance, where every element has been custom-crafted to perfection. Custom vanities in each bathroom are not just functional but art pieces, showcasing the finest materials and craftsmanship.
The secret speakeasy-style golf suite is a luxurious retreat hidden behind an unassuming space in the home, where guests can enjoy a personalized golfing experience after a morning on the slopes. This unique feature is complemented by a compact kitchen, tailored to the highest standards with state-of-the-art appliances and finishes that cater to the most discerning tastes.
The seamless indoor-outdoor living experience is enhanced by the thoughtful design that allows the natural beauty of the landscape to become an integral part of the home’s ambiance. The use of natural materials, combined with the panoramic views, fosters an environment where luxury and nature harmoniously coexist, providing a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Modern Luxe Bathroom
A harmonious blend of modern minimalism and refined luxury, this spa-inspired bathroom was designed to evoke a sense of serenity and sophistication. Wrapped in exquisite marble, every surface seamlessly flows, enhancing the sense of continuity and elegance.
The floating vanity, framed with natural stone and featuring under-cabinet lighting, creates a soft, ambient glow, adding to the airy and weightless aesthetic. A sculptural freestanding tub serves as the room’s centerpiece, reinforcing the spa-like atmosphere.
Thoughtfully integrated built-in shelving ensures functionality without disrupting the clean, streamlined design, while custom glass sconces add warmth and a touch of timeless elegance. The result is a sanctuary of relaxation and contemporary refinement, where every detail is meticulously curated for both beauty and practicality.
Bringing visions to life. ✨
This stunning project began with the plans of the renowned architect Philip Hazan, and I had the honor of turning those plans into reality by managing the project and handling the interior design.
It started with guiding the clients through selecting the perfect stone, materials, color palette, plumbing fixtures, and other essential elements. I worked closely to tweak the cabinetry and millwork designs to reflect their unique style while ensuring functionality.
For this ensuite transformation, I began by meticulously planning the execution—creating a detailed budget, timeline, and schedule—and selecting the best skilled teams to deliver an upscale result. From complete demolition to rebuilding from the skeleton, I was on-site every single day, ensuring every design detail was executed to perfection.

This inviting Colorado home underwent a stunning transformation that blends eclectic charm with timeless design. The remodeled layout enhances natural light and flow, uniting living, dining, and kitchen spaces with effortless style.
The living area is anchored by a freshly whitewashed brick fireplace and warm wood mantel, surrounded by plush textures, curated vintage finds, and pops of color from layered rugs and artwork. Vaulted ceilings and skylights create an airy atmosphere while maintaining cozy intimacy.
The open-concept kitchen is a standout with its dramatic navy blue cabinetry, statement brass pendants, and crisp quartz countertops. A generous island adds both prep space and casual seating, ideal for everyday living and entertaining.
The adjacent dining room continues the home’s playful elegance, featuring blush velvet chairs, a modern globe chandelier, and vibrant art that adds personality and warmth.
Each bathroom showcases custom tile work, brushed brass fixtures, and soft, neutral palettes. The primary bath includes a freestanding soaking tub and spacious glass shower, while a secondary bath features patterned tile flooring and a long double vanity with modern globe lighting.
This whole-home remodel celebrates comfort, functionality, and personality—proving that thoughtful design can truly reflect the people who live in it.

This modern tropical backyard remodel is a vibrant and stylish retreat, perfectly designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The sleek polished concrete floors of the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe. Lush green planters made from formed concrete and wrapped in artificial wood planks are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, infusing the design with nature and enhancing the tropical atmosphere.
The pool, framed with elegant white stone coping, is the centerpiece of the backyard, surrounded by bold accents of orange, green, and deep blue. It offers a refreshing escape, perfect for unwinding or cooling off. Just beside the pool, a tiki bar room addition invites guests to indulge in drinks and conversation, blending playful charm with refined design. The warm orange tones of the bar complement the surrounding deep blue and green hues, creating an inviting and vibrant ambiance.
The design flows effortlessly from the outdoor space into the newly constructed ADU, an architectural gem that stands on its own. Inside, polished concrete floors continue the modern aesthetic, while the striking orange kitchen cabinets serve as an eye-catching focal point in the open-concept space. Light blue doors bring a refreshing touch, adding to the laid-back, tropical vibe throughout. This remodel combines practicality with playful luxury, making it the perfect sanctuary for both everyday living and entertaining guests.

This client of ours loves to entertain. We were commissioned to completely redesign his backyard space to include a Pavilion, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit area. Preparation for this work included demolishing existing deteriorated concrete and a non-functioning Koi pond.
We decided on a 12′ x 14′ layout for the Cedar Pavilion. Sconce lighting, infrared heating, and a ceiling fan were added to the scope of the Pavilion project to maximize the space’s usability. For the outdoor kitchen, we chose a 38″ Delta Heat unit for the grill with matching access doors, a 20K BTU Hestan Side Burner, and a Hestan Refrigerator. We chose soapstone for the countertop and backsplash, and we veneered the kitchen structure with natural San Miguel cobblestone.
The construction of the fire pit area required engineering measures to prevent damage to the nearby pine trees’ root systems from the planned improvements. This was accomplished by designing a sophisticated ventilation system installed under the patio and seat wall to allow the tree roots to continue breathing.
The firepit and surrounding seat wall were constructed of CMU block and veneered with natural San Miguel stone from Telluride. Light fixtures from Unique Lighting were discreetly tucked under the seat wall cap to enhance the area’s nighttime ambiance. Large decorative mossback landscape boulders were imported to create visual interest in the setting. The plant selection for the project included ‘Panchito’ Manzanita, Dwarf Burning Bush, ‘Isanti’ Dogwood, ‘White Bud’ Mugo Pine, Japanese Astilbe, ‘Blue Giant’ Hosta, and Variegated Iris.

This modern tropical backyard remodel is a vibrant and stylish retreat, perfectly designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The sleek polished concrete floors of the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe. Lush green planters made from formed concrete and wrapped in artificial wood planks are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, infusing the design with nature and enhancing the tropical atmosphere.
The pool, framed with elegant white stone coping, is the centerpiece of the backyard, surrounded by bold accents of orange, green, and deep blue. It offers a refreshing escape, perfect for unwinding or cooling off. Just beside the pool, a tiki bar room addition invites guests to indulge in drinks and conversation, blending playful charm with refined design. The warm orange tones of the bar complement the surrounding deep blue and green hues, creating an inviting and vibrant ambiance.
The design flows effortlessly from the outdoor space into the newly constructed ADU, an architectural gem that stands on its own. Inside, polished concrete floors continue the modern aesthetic, while the striking orange kitchen cabinets serve as an eye-catching focal point in the open-concept space. Light blue doors bring a refreshing touch, adding to the laid-back, tropical vibe throughout. This remodel combines practicality with playful luxury, making it the perfect sanctuary for both everyday living and entertaining guests.

Castaway
An Oceanfront Residence
Clearwater, Florida
This breathtaking ocean-front family vacation retreat is positioned between the beach and harbor, an idyllic haven offering panoramic sunset views that will leave you in awe. Our mission was simple yet profound: to let the natural beauty of the surroundings shine while infusing the interior with elements that evoke the tranquility of the ocean.
Drawing inspiration from the sandy shores, we embraced white-washed wood veneers and wood-look porcelain tile flooring, chosen for their practicality and resilience, especially for a space frequented by energetic grandkids. To add a twist of creativity, we installed the tiles in a unique pattern, inviting you to "walk along the plank" towards the mesmerizing vistas.
The dining room serves as a tribute to the couple's engagement in Santorini, adorned with canvas prints of photos taken during these cherished memories. In the dining room and master bedroom, we meticulously selected the perfect "Santorini blue" tones for the accent walls to continue to narrate their story.
Crafted with Treefrog veneers, the custom millwork combines elegance with durability, while the bathrooms exude a spa-like serenity with their natural textures and sandy hues, enhanced by thoughtful lighting.
For the kids' room, we embraced vibrant colors and durable materials, ensuring a space where creativity knows no bounds. Meanwhile, the guest bedroom invites tropical relaxation with its palm leaf motifs and organic accents.
Overall, our design ethos revolves around a light and airy color palette, inspired by the tranquil hues of sand and sea. Strategic pops of color breathe life and vibrancy into the space, creating the perfect atmosphere for a dreamy vacation home experience. Join us as we embark on a journey to transform your space into a coastal paradise!

Situated within the exclusive enclave of Tuhaye, this magnificent guest home stands as a testament to bespoke luxury and innovative design. This cozy hideaway home exudes understated luxury in an efficient layout that maximizes the functionality and elevates the property into an estate home.
Upon entry, one is immediately struck by a custom metal inlaid staircase, not merely a means of transit but a work of art that marries form with function. This staircase, with its intricate metalwork, ascends through the home, guiding one's gaze across the bespoke details that define each space.
The architectural journey continues into the salon with soaring high, tongue and groove clad ceilings that amplify the sense of space and luxury, drawing the eye out to the commanding views of the majestic surrounding mountains. The interior exudes a refined elegance, where every element has been custom-crafted to perfection. Custom vanities in each bathroom are not just functional but art pieces, showcasing the finest materials and craftsmanship.
The secret speakeasy-style golf suite is a luxurious retreat hidden behind an unassuming space in the home, where guests can enjoy a personalized golfing experience after a morning on the slopes. This unique feature is complemented by a compact kitchen, tailored to the highest standards with state-of-the-art appliances and finishes that cater to the most discerning tastes.
The seamless indoor-outdoor living experience is enhanced by the thoughtful design that allows the natural beauty of the landscape to become an integral part of the home’s ambiance. The use of natural materials, combined with the panoramic views, fosters an environment where luxury and nature harmoniously coexist, providing a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

This modern tropical backyard remodel is a vibrant and stylish retreat, perfectly designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The sleek polished concrete floors of the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe. Lush green planters made from formed concrete and wrapped in artificial wood planks are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, infusing the design with nature and enhancing the tropical atmosphere.
The pool, framed with elegant white stone coping, is the centerpiece of the backyard, surrounded by bold accents of orange, green, and deep blue. It offers a refreshing escape, perfect for unwinding or cooling off. Just beside the pool, a tiki bar room addition invites guests to indulge in drinks and conversation, blending playful charm with refined design. The warm orange tones of the bar complement the surrounding deep blue and green hues, creating an inviting and vibrant ambiance.
The design flows effortlessly from the outdoor space into the newly constructed ADU, an architectural gem that stands on its own. Inside, polished concrete floors continue the modern aesthetic, while the striking orange kitchen cabinets serve as an eye-catching focal point in the open-concept space. Light blue doors bring a refreshing touch, adding to the laid-back, tropical vibe throughout. This remodel combines practicality with playful luxury, making it the perfect sanctuary for both everyday living and entertaining guests.

These bespoke fitted alcove TV, display and storage cabinets were handcrafted by Claude Clémaron for a period property in southwest London. The green-painted oak cabinetry provides a variety of open and concealed storage. Tall bifold doors are designed to hide the large black TV screen when it’s not in use and maintain the aesthetic of the living space.
The made to measure, floor to ceiling cabinets have been made in natural oak and painted green, in a deep, heritage shade. The spray painted matt finish retains the beautiful appearance of the oak wood’s grain and texture. The painted finish is Green Smoke no 47 by Farrow and Ball, a smoky green, popular in late 19th century interiors. LED lights enhance the units with a subtle glow, while also illuminating the items on display.
Timeless craftsmanship for classic interiors
The classic bespoke built-in cabinetry features fluted pilasters, decorative elements resembling a column and the mark of fine craftsmanship. Flutes are vertical concave grooves carved into the surface of the pilaster, adding texture and visual interest to the pilaster and bringing a luxuriously elegant look to the cabinetry. The lower cupboards feature soft closing, push to open doors, handle-free doors. This has the effect of a panelled look without the distraction of extra hardware.
Bespoke solid oak library ladder
The beautifully crafted library ladder enables the user to reach the upper shelves of the cabinets. The ladder hooks on to the handmade aged black steel rails incorporated onto the cabinets. Made in solid oak for strength, stability and style, the ladder will last for decades.
Built in fire surround with mantle
We created a simple built in integrated fire surround with a shallow decorative mantle for the existing wood burner stove. The fake chimneybreast for the fireplace has a distinctive panel design and visually connects the two alcove cabinets to appear as one continuous wall fitment.

This inviting Colorado home underwent a stunning transformation that blends eclectic charm with timeless design. The remodeled layout enhances natural light and flow, uniting living, dining, and kitchen spaces with effortless style.
The living area is anchored by a freshly whitewashed brick fireplace and warm wood mantel, surrounded by plush textures, curated vintage finds, and pops of color from layered rugs and artwork. Vaulted ceilings and skylights create an airy atmosphere while maintaining cozy intimacy.
The open-concept kitchen is a standout with its dramatic navy blue cabinetry, statement brass pendants, and crisp quartz countertops. A generous island adds both prep space and casual seating, ideal for everyday living and entertaining.
The adjacent dining room continues the home’s playful elegance, featuring blush velvet chairs, a modern globe chandelier, and vibrant art that adds personality and warmth.
Each bathroom showcases custom tile work, brushed brass fixtures, and soft, neutral palettes. The primary bath includes a freestanding soaking tub and spacious glass shower, while a secondary bath features patterned tile flooring and a long double vanity with modern globe lighting.
This whole-home remodel celebrates comfort, functionality, and personality—proving that thoughtful design can truly reflect the people who live in it.

This modern tropical backyard remodel is a vibrant and stylish retreat, perfectly designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The sleek polished concrete floors of the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe. Lush green planters made from formed concrete and wrapped in artificial wood planks are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, infusing the design with nature and enhancing the tropical atmosphere.
The pool, framed with elegant white stone coping, is the centerpiece of the backyard, surrounded by bold accents of orange, green, and deep blue. It offers a refreshing escape, perfect for unwinding or cooling off. Just beside the pool, a tiki bar room addition invites guests to indulge in drinks and conversation, blending playful charm with refined design. The warm orange tones of the bar complement the surrounding deep blue and green hues, creating an inviting and vibrant ambiance.
The design flows effortlessly from the outdoor space into the newly constructed ADU, an architectural gem that stands on its own. Inside, polished concrete floors continue the modern aesthetic, while the striking orange kitchen cabinets serve as an eye-catching focal point in the open-concept space. Light blue doors bring a refreshing touch, adding to the laid-back, tropical vibe throughout. This remodel combines practicality with playful luxury, making it the perfect sanctuary for both everyday living and entertaining guests.
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