This contemporary four-story interior design project in Alexandria, Virginia, blends luxurious comfort with modern functionality. On the rooftop, a fully furnished entertainment space invites relaxation and social gatherings with its outdoor-grade furniture upholstered in durable Sunbrella fabrics. A gas firepit serves as a cozy centerpiece, while a retractable outdoor-grade umbrella offers shade during the day. The space is perfect for lounging or evening gatherings, making it a stunning rooftop retreat. The inner loft is an intimate yet vibrant area, featuring a striking star ceiling and a stacked stone wall that adds both texture and elegance. A custom bar with pub tables and chairs creates the ideal space for games and fun, blending an industrial vibe with modern comfort. On the third level, the guest bedroom is thoughtfully designed with a rich brown leather tufted headboard and matching ottoman, complemented by custom framed Basquiat prints that add a splash of artistic flair. The primary bedroom mirrors this elegance with a tufted headboard and leather ottoman, highlighted by white accents and monochromatic framed prints, creating a serene and sophisticated retreat. On the main level, the open-concept living and dining areas feature a combination of wood and leather, including a sleek dining table paired with leather chairs. Modern lighting fixtures enhance the ambiance, and a sculptural wood art piece elevates the dining space. A chrome bar cart adds a stylish touch to the kitchen, perfectly complemented by white and chrome bar stools. The living room features custom-built shelving made of natural oak veneer, large wall art, and curated accents like vases and custom throw pillows. Outside, the patio continues the design theme with outdoor-grade furnishings and throw pillows, making every corner of this home thoughtfully designed for both beauty and comfort.

Primary bathroom renovation. Navy, gray, and black are balanced by crisp whites and light wood tones. Eclectic mix of geometric shapes and organic patterns. Featuring 3D porcelain tile from Italy, hand-carved geometric tribal pattern in vanity's cabinet doors, hand-finished industrial-style navy/charcoal 24x24" wall tiles, and oversized 24x48" porcelain HD printed marble patterned wall tiles. Flooring in waterproof LVP, continued from bedroom into bathroom and closet. Brushed gold faucets and shower fixtures. Authentic, hand-pierced Moroccan globe light over tub for beautiful shadows for relaxing and romantic soaks in the tub. Vanity pendant lights with handmade glass, hand-finished gold and silver tones layers organic design over geometric tile backdrop. Open, glass panel all-tile shower with 48x48" window (glass frosted after photos were taken). Shower pan tile pattern matches 3D tile pattern. Arched medicine cabinet from West Elm. Separate toilet room with sound dampening built-in wall treatment for enhanced privacy. Frosted glass doors throughout. Vent fan with integrated heat option. Tall storage cabinet for additional space to store body care products and other bathroom essentials. Original bathroom plumbed for two sinks, but current homeowner has only one user for this bathroom, so we capped one side, which can easily be reopened in future if homeowner wants to return to a double-sink setup. Expanded closet size and completely redesigned closet built-in storage. Please see separate album of closet photos for more photos and details on this.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”

Designer Janet Villafane of Villafane Design, LLC of Chester, New Jersey designed and executed this contemporary kitchen with Aston Smith of Bilotta Kitchens of New York. According to Villafane, “from the moment you meet this family you understand their priority in life is family and friends. We were looking for a design that, first and foremost, emphasized the occupants’ request to have a home that was inviting to all that entered. We continued to focus on that request throughout the design phase.” In addition, the design team needed to satisfy the needs of a disabled family member. They wanted him to be able to flow through all areas of the space and feel as if he could comfortably use the open kitchen and family room without any hindrance. The clients were inspired by clean lines and simplicity. When they spoke about their modern Florida home, one could hear and see their enthusiasm and excitement to bring that simplicity into their new home. It became evident early on that their new space should be contemporary but the home’s exterior, as well as the neighboring community, had an old world, traditional charm. The goal was to avoid competing aesthetics while respecting both looks. The resulting interior design incorporated slab doors with both semi-gloss white lacquer and grey stain on horizontal grained oak. The rich dark oak base cabinets perfectly balanced the ceiling beams. The use of a stainless channel system, in place of traditional hardware, and the stainless toe kick completed the design. The Bertazzoni cooktop and wall ovens in stainless steel, Sub-Zero refrigeration paneled in white semi-gloss, and a stainless steel chimney hood enhanced the clean, uninterrupted lines. The island countertop is Thunder White granite in a leathered finish; the perimeter is Super White Quartz; and the nook table is Virginia Mist honed granite. The backsplash is a frosted glass tile. The clients hope for quality, simplicity and functionality were beautifully achieved by the designers. Closed, solid front cabinets provide a “home” for everything in the kitchen. A seating nook with a large screen TV, as well as additional TVs visible throughout the kitchen and family room, satisfied the demand of watching multiple sporting events at one time. To finish it all off decorative lighting was carefully selected to make a “wow” statement. Designer: Janet Villafane of Villafane Design LLC Bilotta Designer: Aston Smith Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

Primary bathroom renovation. Navy, gray, and black are balanced by crisp whites and light wood tones. Eclectic mix of geometric shapes and organic patterns. Featuring 3D porcelain tile from Italy, hand-carved geometric tribal pattern in vanity's cabinet doors, hand-finished industrial-style navy/charcoal 24x24" wall tiles, and oversized 24x48" porcelain HD printed marble patterned wall tiles. Flooring in waterproof LVP, continued from bedroom into bathroom and closet. Brushed gold faucets and shower fixtures. Authentic, hand-pierced Moroccan globe light over tub for beautiful shadows for relaxing and romantic soaks in the tub. Vanity pendant lights with handmade glass, hand-finished gold and silver tones layers organic design over geometric tile backdrop. Open, glass panel all-tile shower with 48x48" window (glass frosted after photos were taken). Shower pan tile pattern matches 3D tile pattern. Arched medicine cabinet from West Elm. Separate toilet room with sound dampening built-in wall treatment for enhanced privacy. Frosted glass doors throughout. Vent fan with integrated heat option. Tall storage cabinet for additional space to store body care products and other bathroom essentials. Original bathroom plumbed for two sinks, but current homeowner has only one user for this bathroom, so we capped one side, which can easily be reopened in future if homeowner wants to return to a double-sink setup. Expanded closet size and completely redesigned closet built-in storage. Please see separate album of closet photos for more photos and details on this.

Klopf Architecture, Outer Space Landscape Architects, Sezen & Moon Structural Engineer and Flegels Construction updated a classic Eichler open, indoor-outdoor home. Everyone loved the classic, original bones of this house, but it was in need of a major facelift both inside and out. The owners also wanted to remove the barriers between the kitchen and great room, and increase the size of the master bathroom as well as make other layout changes. No addition to the house was contemplated. The owners worked with Klopf Architecture in part because of Klopf’s extensive mid-century modern / Eichler design portfolio, and in part because one of their neighbors who had worked with Klopf on their Eichler home remodel referred them. The Klopf team knew how to update the worn finishes to make a more sophisticated, higher quality home that both looks better and functions better. In conjunction with the atrium and the landscaped rear yard / patio, the glassy living room feels open on both sides and allows an indoor / outdoor flow throughout. The new, natural wood exterior siding runs through the house from inside to outside to inside again, updating one of the classic design features of the Eichler homes. Picking up on the wood siding, walnut vanities and cabinets offset the white walls. Gray porcelain tiles evoke the concrete slab floors and flow from interior to exterior to make the spaces appear to flow together. Similarly the ceiling decking has the same white-washed finish from inside to out. The continuity of materials and space enhances the sense of flow. The large kitchen, perfect for entertaining, has a wall of built-ins and an oversized island. There’s plenty of storage and space for the whole group to prep and cook together. One unique approach to the master bedroom is the bed wall. The head of the bed is tucked within a line of built-in wardrobes with a high window above. Replacing the master closet with this wall of wardrobes allowed for both a larger bathroom and a larger bedroom. This 1,953 square foot, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom Double Gable Eichler remodeled single-family house is located in Mountain View in the heart of the Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, and Yegvenia Torres-Zavala Landscape Architect: Outer Space Landscape Architects Structural Engineer: Sezen & Moon Contractor: Flegels Construction Landscape Contractor: Roco's Gardening & Arroyo Vista Landscaping, Inc. Photography ©2016 Mariko Reed Location: Mountain View, CA Year completed: 2015

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”

Primary bathroom renovation. Navy, gray, and black are balanced by crisp whites and light wood tones. Eclectic mix of geometric shapes and organic patterns. Featuring 3D porcelain tile from Italy, hand-carved geometric tribal pattern in vanity's cabinet doors, hand-finished industrial-style navy/charcoal 24x24" wall tiles, and oversized 24x48" porcelain HD printed marble patterned wall tiles. Flooring in waterproof LVP, continued from bedroom into bathroom and closet. Brushed gold faucets and shower fixtures. Authentic, hand-pierced Moroccan globe light over tub for beautiful shadows for relaxing and romantic soaks in the tub. Vanity pendant lights with handmade glass, hand-finished gold and silver tones layers organic design over geometric tile backdrop. Open, glass panel all-tile shower with 48x48" window (glass frosted after photos were taken). Shower pan tile pattern matches 3D tile pattern. Arched medicine cabinet from West Elm. Separate toilet room with sound dampening built-in wall treatment for enhanced privacy. Frosted glass doors throughout. Vent fan with integrated heat option. Tall storage cabinet for additional space to store body care products and other bathroom essentials. Original bathroom plumbed for two sinks, but current homeowner has only one user for this bathroom, so we capped one side, which can easily be reopened in future if homeowner wants to return to a double-sink setup. Expanded closet size and completely redesigned closet built-in storage. Please see separate album of closet photos for more photos and details on this.

With a desire to stay close to friends and family, the owners of this 1984 home spent several years searching for property near their neighborhood to build a new, more modern, energy-conscious home tailored to their empty-nest lifestyle. They eventually concluded that their current site was the perfect location for them, but the home needed to be updated and reorganized to create fresh, open, unified spaces to comfortably welcome gatherings of family, friends, and guests. Before renovation, the floor plan included small rooms, dedicated hallways, a step-down living room, a heavy and dark corner fireplace, and limited opportunities for natural light and visual connections from space to space. Exterior deck areas were narrow, long, and used infrequently. Primary goals of this project included accessibility of space, more natural light, better connectivity between spaces, and a focus on sustainable performance. The updated main floor plan included the selective removal of walls to reallocate dedicated hall space to usable, open living area. The step-down living room was leveled for full accessibility, safety, furniture flexibility and overall space use. The removal of a half-height wall between the living area and the kitchen created continuity between the spaces. Reorganizing the primary entry and stair and eliminating walls between the entry and dining room created new visual connections between the kitchen and the entry. The new central concrete hearth and fireplace provides a strong, modern focal point for the living area. Large sliding glass doors on each side of the fireplace allow the TV area beyond to be separated from the living area as needed. In several strategic locations, the footprint of the house was expanded to enhance function and flow at the kitchen, dining room, and mudroom. The new outdoor deck area is now large and singular and includes a grille area, dining space and open seating overlooking the newly landscaped pool below. The exterior envelope of the house includes new insulation, siding, and energy-efficient windows, as well as two large roof-mounted solar arrays, to increase thermal performance and to offset energy costs. Inside, the new HVAC system maximizes energy efficiency while using a fraction of its former footprint. As a result, a portion of the former mechanical space was added back to the lower level family room area and expands into a cozy library nook. MMA partnered with the owner’s interior designer and kitchen designer to achieve a softer, contemporary palette of finishes that complement this newly configured, light-filled home.

With a desire to stay close to friends and family, the owners of this 1984 home spent several years searching for property near their neighborhood to build a new, more modern, energy-conscious home tailored to their empty-nest lifestyle. They eventually concluded that their current site was the perfect location for them, but the home needed to be updated and reorganized to create fresh, open, unified spaces to comfortably welcome gatherings of family, friends, and guests. Before renovation, the floor plan included small rooms, dedicated hallways, a step-down living room, a heavy and dark corner fireplace, and limited opportunities for natural light and visual connections from space to space. Exterior deck areas were narrow, long, and used infrequently. Primary goals of this project included accessibility of space, more natural light, better connectivity between spaces, and a focus on sustainable performance. The updated main floor plan included the selective removal of walls to reallocate dedicated hall space to usable, open living area. The step-down living room was leveled for full accessibility, safety, furniture flexibility and overall space use. The removal of a half-height wall between the living area and the kitchen created continuity between the spaces. Reorganizing the primary entry and stair and eliminating walls between the entry and dining room created new visual connections between the kitchen and the entry. The new central concrete hearth and fireplace provides a strong, modern focal point for the living area. Large sliding glass doors on each side of the fireplace allow the TV area beyond to be separated from the living area as needed. In several strategic locations, the footprint of the house was expanded to enhance function and flow at the kitchen, dining room, and mudroom. The new outdoor deck area is now large and singular and includes a grille area, dining space and open seating overlooking the newly landscaped pool below. The exterior envelope of the house includes new insulation, siding, and energy-efficient windows, as well as two large roof-mounted solar arrays, to increase thermal performance and to offset energy costs. Inside, the new HVAC system maximizes energy efficiency while using a fraction of its former footprint. As a result, a portion of the former mechanical space was added back to the lower level family room area and expands into a cozy library nook. MMA partnered with the owner’s interior designer and kitchen designer to achieve a softer, contemporary palette of finishes that complement this newly configured, light-filled home.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”

Designer Janet Villafane of Villafane Design, LLC of Chester, New Jersey designed and executed this contemporary kitchen with Aston Smith of Bilotta Kitchens of New York. According to Villafane, “from the moment you meet this family you understand their priority in life is family and friends. We were looking for a design that, first and foremost, emphasized the occupants’ request to have a home that was inviting to all that entered. We continued to focus on that request throughout the design phase.” In addition, the design team needed to satisfy the needs of a disabled family member. They wanted him to be able to flow through all areas of the space and feel as if he could comfortably use the open kitchen and family room without any hindrance. The clients were inspired by clean lines and simplicity. When they spoke about their modern Florida home, one could hear and see their enthusiasm and excitement to bring that simplicity into their new home. It became evident early on that their new space should be contemporary but the home’s exterior, as well as the neighboring community, had an old world, traditional charm. The goal was to avoid competing aesthetics while respecting both looks. The resulting interior design incorporated slab doors with both semi-gloss white lacquer and grey stain on horizontal grained oak. The rich dark oak base cabinets perfectly balanced the ceiling beams. The use of a stainless channel system, in place of traditional hardware, and the stainless toe kick completed the design. The Bertazzoni cooktop and wall ovens in stainless steel, Sub-Zero refrigeration paneled in white semi-gloss, and a stainless steel chimney hood enhanced the clean, uninterrupted lines. The island countertop is Thunder White granite in a leathered finish; the perimeter is Super White Quartz; and the nook table is Virginia Mist honed granite. The backsplash is a frosted glass tile. The clients hope for quality, simplicity and functionality were beautifully achieved by the designers. Closed, solid front cabinets provide a “home” for everything in the kitchen. A seating nook with a large screen TV, as well as additional TVs visible throughout the kitchen and family room, satisfied the demand of watching multiple sporting events at one time. To finish it all off decorative lighting was carefully selected to make a “wow” statement. Designer: Janet Villafane of Villafane Design LLC Bilotta Designer: Aston Smith Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

With a desire to stay close to friends and family, the owners of this 1984 home spent several years searching for property near their neighborhood to build a new, more modern, energy-conscious home tailored to their empty-nest lifestyle. They eventually concluded that their current site was the perfect location for them, but the home needed to be updated and reorganized to create fresh, open, unified spaces to comfortably welcome gatherings of family, friends, and guests. Before renovation, the floor plan included small rooms, dedicated hallways, a step-down living room, a heavy and dark corner fireplace, and limited opportunities for natural light and visual connections from space to space. Exterior deck areas were narrow, long, and used infrequently. Primary goals of this project included accessibility of space, more natural light, better connectivity between spaces, and a focus on sustainable performance. The updated main floor plan included the selective removal of walls to reallocate dedicated hall space to usable, open living area. The step-down living room was leveled for full accessibility, safety, furniture flexibility and overall space use. The removal of a half-height wall between the living area and the kitchen created continuity between the spaces. Reorganizing the primary entry and stair and eliminating walls between the entry and dining room created new visual connections between the kitchen and the entry. The new central concrete hearth and fireplace provides a strong, modern focal point for the living area. Large sliding glass doors on each side of the fireplace allow the TV area beyond to be separated from the living area as needed. In several strategic locations, the footprint of the house was expanded to enhance function and flow at the kitchen, dining room, and mudroom. The new outdoor deck area is now large and singular and includes a grille area, dining space and open seating overlooking the newly landscaped pool below. The exterior envelope of the house includes new insulation, siding, and energy-efficient windows, as well as two large roof-mounted solar arrays, to increase thermal performance and to offset energy costs. Inside, the new HVAC system maximizes energy efficiency while using a fraction of its former footprint. As a result, a portion of the former mechanical space was added back to the lower level family room area and expands into a cozy library nook. MMA partnered with the owner’s interior designer and kitchen designer to achieve a softer, contemporary palette of finishes that complement this newly configured, light-filled home.

Condos are often a challenge – can’t move water, venting has to remain connected to existing ducting and recessed cans may not be an option. In this project, we had an added challenge – we could not lower the ceiling on the exterior wall due to a continual leak issue that the HOA has put off due to the multi-million-dollar expense. DESIGN PHILOSOPHY: Work Centers: prep, baking, clean up, message, beverage and entertaining. Vignette Design: avoid wall to wall cabinets, enhance the work center philosophy Geometry: create a more exciting and natural flow ANGLES: the baking center features a Miele wall oven and Liebherr Freezer, the countertop is 36” deep (allowing for an extra deep appliance garage with stainless tambour). CURVES: the island, desk and ceiling is curved to create a more natural flow. A raised drink counter in Sapele allows for “bellying up to the bar” CIRCLES: the 60” table (seating for 6) is supported by a steel plate and a custom column (used also to support the end of the curved desk – not shown) ISLAND CHALLENGE: To install recessed cans and connect to the existing ducting – we dropped the ceiling 6”. The dropped ceiling curves at the end of the island to the existing ceiling height at the pantry/desk area of the kitchen. The stainless steel column at the end of the island is an electrical chase (the ceiling is concrete, which we were not allowed to puncture) for the island Cabinets: Sapele – Vertical Grain Island Cabinets: Metro LM 98 – Horizontal Grain Laminate Countertop Granite: Purple Dunes Wood – maple Drink Counter: Sapele Appliances: Refrigerator and Freezer: Liebherr Induction CT, DW, Wall and Steam Oven: Miele Hood: Best Range Hoods – Cirrus Wine Refrigerator: Perlick Flooring: Cork Tile Backsplash: Artistic Tile Steppes – Negro Marquina Lighting: Tom Dixon NW Architectural Photography

Condos are often a challenge – can’t move water, venting has to remain connected to existing ducting and recessed cans may not be an option. In this project, we had an added challenge – we could not lower the ceiling on the exterior wall due to a continual leak issue that the HOA has put off due to the multi-million-dollar expense. DESIGN PHILOSOPHY: Work Centers: prep, baking, clean up, message, beverage and entertaining. Vignette Design: avoid wall to wall cabinets, enhance the work center philosophy Geometry: create a more exciting and natural flow ANGLES: the baking center features a Miele wall oven and Liebherr Freezer, the countertop is 36” deep (allowing for an extra deep appliance garage with stainless tambour). CURVES: the island, desk and ceiling is curved to create a more natural flow. A raised drink counter in Sapele allows for “bellying up to the bar” CIRCLES: the 60” table (seating for 6) is supported by a steel plate and a custom column (used also to support the end of the curved desk – not shown) ISLAND CHALLENGE: To install recessed cans and connect to the existing ducting – we dropped the ceiling 6”. The dropped ceiling curves at the end of the island to the existing ceiling height at the pantry/desk area of the kitchen. The stainless steel column at the end of the island is an electrical chase (the ceiling is concrete, which we were not allowed to puncture) for the island Cabinets: Sapele – Vertical Grain Island Cabinets: Metro LM 98 – Horizontal Grain Laminate Countertop Granite: Purple Dunes Wood – maple Drink Counter: Sapele Appliances: Refrigerator and Freezer: Liebherr Induction CT, DW, Wall and Steam Oven: Miele Hood: Best Range Hoods – Cirrus Wine Refrigerator: Perlick Flooring: Cork Tile Backsplash: Artistic Tile Steppes – Negro Marquina Lighting: Tom Dixon NW Architectural Photography

Created as a sanctuary for a family of six, this beautifully renovated lake home in a private gated community serves as a calming respite from the hustle and bustle of this family's everyday lives. Soaring views of the wooded lake area beyond are brought indoors with the dining area chandelier's gilded branches, while watery blue hues in the artwork and furnishings reflect the water and sky. Warm woods and earthy charcoals also help reinforce the nod to nature. To brighten the open concept living area, lighter finishes were introduced to reflect the natural light, streaming in through the two-story windows. Layered artificial lighting also helps lighten up the rooms. To highlight key design elements, darker hues were repeated on the fireplace, stove, hood, backs of the shelves, and the windows. Accent lighting on the shelves and underneath the floating cabinet also add a warm ambiance. The rich walnut stain on the floating cabinet and shelves contrasts boldly with the stacked stone fireplace creating a strong focal point in the hearth room area. A dark hued stove hood contrasts sharply with the quartz backsplash in the kitchen creates another strong focal point enhanced by a contrasting color island, bold chandeliers, and contrasting counter stools. The wood hood and island warm up the white wall of kitchen cabinets. The kitchen boasts multiple zones for family and friends. from a large island for gatherings and a lit up hidden coffee bar with a water spigot to swivel chairs for watching the fire or falling snow. The abstract painting in the dining area draws the eye up to show off the two-story room, while the centerpiece feels like someone just crafted it from the clay outdoors. The laundry room was enlarged so it could also serve as a mudroom with cubbies and a butler's pantry where laundry becomes a joy instead of a chore. The guest bath continues the nurturing theme of livable luxury with a focus on calming blues and texture over pattern.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”

With a desire to stay close to friends and family, the owners of this 1984 home spent several years searching for property near their neighborhood to build a new, more modern, energy-conscious home tailored to their empty-nest lifestyle. They eventually concluded that their current site was the perfect location for them, but the home needed to be updated and reorganized to create fresh, open, unified spaces to comfortably welcome gatherings of family, friends, and guests. Before renovation, the floor plan included small rooms, dedicated hallways, a step-down living room, a heavy and dark corner fireplace, and limited opportunities for natural light and visual connections from space to space. Exterior deck areas were narrow, long, and used infrequently. Primary goals of this project included accessibility of space, more natural light, better connectivity between spaces, and a focus on sustainable performance. The updated main floor plan included the selective removal of walls to reallocate dedicated hall space to usable, open living area. The step-down living room was leveled for full accessibility, safety, furniture flexibility and overall space use. The removal of a half-height wall between the living area and the kitchen created continuity between the spaces. Reorganizing the primary entry and stair and eliminating walls between the entry and dining room created new visual connections between the kitchen and the entry. The new central concrete hearth and fireplace provides a strong, modern focal point for the living area. Large sliding glass doors on each side of the fireplace allow the TV area beyond to be separated from the living area as needed. In several strategic locations, the footprint of the house was expanded to enhance function and flow at the kitchen, dining room, and mudroom. The new outdoor deck area is now large and singular and includes a grille area, dining space and open seating overlooking the newly landscaped pool below. The exterior envelope of the house includes new insulation, siding, and energy-efficient windows, as well as two large roof-mounted solar arrays, to increase thermal performance and to offset energy costs. Inside, the new HVAC system maximizes energy efficiency while using a fraction of its former footprint. As a result, a portion of the former mechanical space was added back to the lower level family room area and expands into a cozy library nook. MMA partnered with the owner’s interior designer and kitchen designer to achieve a softer, contemporary palette of finishes that complement this newly configured, light-filled home.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”