Reimagining an Urban Classic Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods. The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views. Architecture that Frames the View At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape. A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors. Warm Modern Interiors Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture. The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home. The Social Heart of the Home The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate. A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm. Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond. Private Retreats Above the City Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day. The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility. Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness. Spaces for Entertaining Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts. These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape. Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city. A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

Reimagining an Urban Classic Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods. The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views. Architecture that Frames the View At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape. A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors. Warm Modern Interiors Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture. The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home. The Social Heart of the Home The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate. A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm. Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond. Private Retreats Above the City Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day. The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility. Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness. Spaces for Entertaining Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts. These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape. Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city. A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

25' Pondless waterfall stream
Inspiration for a large traditional partial sun backyard stone water fountain landscape in Sacramento.

An album of a Georgia home showcasing an elegant, neutral-colored dining room which features pendant lighting, intricately designed place settings, floral arrangements, a variety of dining room chairs that range from traditional to modern, and a monochromatic painting of dancers. Home designed by Atlanta interior design firm, VRA Interiors. They serve the entire Atlanta metropolitan area including Buckhead, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Cobb County, and North Fulton County. For more about VRA Interior Design, click here: https://www.vrainteriors.com/

Photo of a rustic backyard garden path in Atlanta.

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

For this couple, planning to move back to their rambler home in Arlington after living overseas for few years, they were ready to get rid of clutter, clean up their grown-up kids’ boxes, and transform their home into their dream home for their golden years. The old home included a box-like 8 feet x 10 feet kitchen, no family room, three small bedrooms and two back to back small bathrooms. The laundry room was located in a small dark space of the unfinished basement. This home is located in a cul-de-sac, on an uphill lot, of a very secluded neighborhood with lots of new homes just being built around them. The couple consulted an architectural firm in past but never were satisfied with the final plans. They approached Michael Nash Custom Kitchens hoping for fresh ideas. The backyard and side yard are wooded and the existing structure was too close to building restriction lines. We developed design plans and applied for special permits to achieve our client’s goals. The remodel includes a family room, sunroom, breakfast area, home office, large master bedroom suite, large walk-in closet, main level laundry room, lots of windows, front porch, back deck, and most important than all an elevator from lower to upper level given them and their close relative a necessary easier access. The new plan added extra dimensions to this rambler on all four sides. Starting from the front, we excavated to allow a first level entrance, storage, and elevator room. Building just above it, is a 12 feet x 30 feet covered porch with a leading brick staircase. A contemporary cedar rail with horizontal stainless steel cable rail system on both the front porch and the back deck sets off this project from any others in area. A new foyer with double frosted stainless-steel door was added which contains the elevator. The garage door was widened and a solid cedar door was installed to compliment the cedar siding. The left side of this rambler was excavated to allow a storage off the garage and extension of one of the old bedrooms to be converted to a large master bedroom suite, master bathroom suite and walk-in closet. We installed matching brick for a seam-less exterior look. The entire house was furnished with new Italian imported highly custom stainless-steel windows and doors. We removed several brick and block structure walls to put doors and floor to ceiling windows. A full walk in shower with barn style frameless glass doors, double vanities covered with selective stone, floor to ceiling porcelain tile make the master bathroom highly accessible. The other two bedrooms were reconfigured with new closets, wider doorways, new wood floors and wider windows. Just outside of the bedroom, a new laundry room closet was a major upgrade. A second HVAC system was added in the attic for all new areas. The back side of the master bedroom was covered with floor to ceiling windows and a door to step into a new deck covered in trex and cable railing. This addition provides a view to wooded area of the home. By excavating and leveling the backyard, we constructed a two story 15’x 40’ addition that provided the tall ceiling for the family room just adjacent to new deck, a breakfast area a few steps away from the remodeled kitchen. Upscale stainless-steel appliances, floor to ceiling white custom cabinetry and quartz counter top, and fun lighting improved this back section of the house with its increased lighting and available work space. Just below this addition, there is extra space for exercise and storage room. This room has a pair of sliding doors allowing more light inside. The right elevation has a trapezoid shape addition with floor to ceiling windows and space used as a sunroom/in-home office. Wide plank wood floors were installed throughout the main level for continuity. The hall bathroom was gutted and expanded to allow a new soaking tub and large vanity. The basement half bathroom was converted to a full bathroom, new flooring and lighting in the entire basement changed the purpose of the basement for entertainment and spending time with grandkids. Off white and soft tone were used inside and out as the color schemes to make this rambler spacious and illuminated. Final grade and landscaping, by adding a few trees, trimming the old cherry and walnut trees in backyard, saddling the yard, and a new concrete driveway and walkway made this home a unique and charming gem in the neighborhood.

A 1929 urban Bungalow well preserved save for the kitchen. The kitchen had been twice remodeled – most recently in the 1970’s by previous homeowners. Our clients wished to restore the original Craftsman-era charm to their kitchen (which adjoined the dining room and was visible from the front entry). At the same time, our clients were looking to increase the functionality of the kitchen space and create additional seating for frequent dinner guests. Our clients’ tight budget restricted the finish pallet to rather simple options, but that simplicity became the project’s strength. Custom cabinets (using FSC-certified maple) were designed with simple flat panel doors and fabricated using dove-tail joinery as was typical of Bungalow cabinetry. Red oak, stained to match the home’s original millwork was used to construct the cabinet lowers and a new bench to create continuity with the remainder of the home. Carrara marble, authentic to the 1920s period, was used to aesthetically brighten the space. Cabinet uppers were enameled in a historically appropriate cream hue to compliment the countertop stone. The backsplash tile was selected to pay tribute to the home’s original 1929 wall color – found beneath several layers of wallpaper during demolition. Walls were painted a bold, but historically, accurate, copper color (a perfect compliment the red oak cabinetry and trim). Lighting issues in this north-facing kitchen were addressed using hidden over-cabinet lights, task-specific under-cabinet lighting, sink cans and several period fixtures – hand fashioned by a local artisan specializing in historic reproductions to complete the bungalow look and honor the Arts-n-Crafts practice of using local craftsman. Simple and practical…in budget and in period. To solve the seating issue, a new bench (with storage below) was custom built to span the 12’ dining room wall – allowing plenty of room for family and guests alike during dinner. The larger kitchen approach provided room for a new serve-through with counter seating where snacks, homework, and spill-over food prep can occur. No new square footage… six new seats! To solve storage needs, the base cabinets in the kitchen were designed 3” deeper than standard 24” box cabinets and a new 28” deep pantry added allowing some of the wasted space at the center of this square kitchen to be used more efficiently. A tall backsplash capped with a 4” ledge provides a place for all of the inevitable items that clutter valuable counter real estate (cooking timers, seasoning jars, etc …) Specialized, task-specific storage - the highlight of Bungalow kitchens - was incorporated throughout: 1) An angled cabinet, built to accommodate an awkward side door location, now holds a trash can, tin-lined recycling bins, and a knife drawer; 2) A difficult deep corner necessitated by the 28” deep fridge gave rise to open cookbook shelves, an appliance cubby and narrow, and a deep pantry with full-extension roll-out trays; 3) An open pot & pan rack, built-in wall spice cabinet, kid-height microwave (a special request from our clients), customized cell-phone/electronics storage, built-in chalk board message center, and new rear entry coat/backpack storage with cork board complete the net storage gain. No new square footage … lots of new, innovative, high-functioning storage.

B&B Italia Bend sofa and Metropolitan chair Bensen orange U Turn chairs Lapalma Miunn stools Designer Andrea McLean, Andrea McLean Design Office http://www.andreamclean.ca/ Photographer Ema Peter, Ema Peter Photography http://www.emapeter.com/ Styling Laura Melling, Laura Melling Interior Design & Styling http://www.lauramelling.com/ Contractor Michael Macartney, Woodquest Construction http://woodquest.ca/

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Let's face it: times are changing. We're living in an era where technology advances at a fast pace and its developments have a significant impact on the surroundings. The need for environmental solutions has become more urgent with each passing day. While we live and adapt to our immediate environment, it doesn't mean that we have to settle with what's present, especially when our surrounding conditions are becoming detrimental to our wellbeing. This is the reason Singapore architects are looking into eco-friendly approaches when designing residential spaces. Singapore architects are becoming more proactive in integrating eco-friendly principles in their residential projects. Below are some of the standout reasons why: 1. You get to practice energy efficiency. In typical homes, electricity is powered by non-renewable sources. The continuous use of non-renewable energy increases carbon footprint and worsens air pollution, both of which negatively affect the environment. However, there are alternative sources of energy that can be included in your home's architectural design. These include solar panels and wind turbines that produce electricity that can keep the house powered. These methods do not produce toxic compounds or carbon emissions; they are also renewable and do not incur recurring expenses. 2. Eco-friendly architecture brings you closer to a more "natural environment." The emergence of urban landscapes has deprived today's generation of the opportunity to be one with nature. Individuals these days have to travel to the countryside to enjoy nature's beauty and all the amazing benefits it has to offer. Fortunately, eco-friendly architecture provides a route where you can better appreciate many of the benefits nature offers. As a homeowner, you must enjoy a calm, clean, and fresh indoor environment. Eco-friendly approaches to homes aim to provide this kind of atmosphere through the use of local materials, renewable energy sources, and incorporating nature's elements (such as sunlight and air ventilation) on the structural design. 3. You save money for maintenance and upkeep. Eco-friendly architecture is known for its low maintenance costs. At first glance, you may find it expensive to build a "green home." However, since it makes use of renewable energy sources and local resources for upkeep, operational costs become much cheaper compared to living in a conventional home. Also, green homes promote material efficiency. Apart from using local resources, eco-friendly construction involves building processes that generate as little waste as possible. Recycled and reusable materials are preferred in building the home, while the architectural design follows construction techniques that use less energy, water, and raw materials. 4. You enjoy better health. Living in a green home offers a lot of health benefits. For instance, eco-friendly architecture supports the use of natural materials and it discourages having plastic by-products in the building process. At the same time, eco-friendly architectural designs look into utilising vertical space to boost freedom of movement and air circulation. These spatial strategies allow you to breathe better even while indoors and move around the house without feeling cramped. Lastly, utilising vertical space offers more natural light to enter the home. Natural light is essential not just because it illuminates the house during the day, it also regulates the circadian rhythm, which dictates our body's waking and sleeping hours. In a nutshell Eco-friendly homes can help you save money and time, not to mention improve your health dramatically. Moreover, it can also help reduce your environmental footprint significantly. From improving air quality to helping regulate the effects of climate change, eco-friendly homes allow you to live a more sustainable lifestyle.

A 1929 urban Bungalow well preserved save for the kitchen. The kitchen had been twice remodeled – most recently in the 1970’s by previous homeowners. Our clients wished to restore the original Craftsman-era charm to their kitchen (which adjoined the dining room and was visible from the front entry). At the same time, our clients were looking to increase the functionality of the kitchen space and create additional seating for frequent dinner guests. Our clients’ tight budget restricted the finish pallet to rather simple options, but that simplicity became the project’s strength. Custom cabinets (using FSC-certified maple) were designed with simple flat panel doors and fabricated using dove-tail joinery as was typical of Bungalow cabinetry. Red oak, stained to match the home’s original millwork was used to construct the cabinet lowers and a new bench to create continuity with the remainder of the home. Carrara marble, authentic to the 1920s period, was used to aesthetically brighten the space. Cabinet uppers were enameled in a historically appropriate cream hue to compliment the countertop stone. The backsplash tile was selected to pay tribute to the home’s original 1929 wall color – found beneath several layers of wallpaper during demolition. Walls were painted a bold, but historically, accurate, copper color (a perfect compliment the red oak cabinetry and trim). Lighting issues in this north-facing kitchen were addressed using hidden over-cabinet lights, task-specific under-cabinet lighting, sink cans and several period fixtures – hand fashioned by a local artisan specializing in historic reproductions to complete the bungalow look and honor the Arts-n-Crafts practice of using local craftsman. Simple and practical…in budget and in period. To solve the seating issue, a new bench (with storage below) was custom built to span the 12’ dining room wall – allowing plenty of room for family and guests alike during dinner. The larger kitchen approach provided room for a new serve-through with counter seating where snacks, homework, and spill-over food prep can occur. No new square footage… six new seats! To solve storage needs, the base cabinets in the kitchen were designed 3” deeper than standard 24” box cabinets and a new 28” deep pantry added allowing some of the wasted space at the center of this square kitchen to be used more efficiently. A tall backsplash capped with a 4” ledge provides a place for all of the inevitable items that clutter valuable counter real estate (cooking timers, seasoning jars, etc …) Specialized, task-specific storage - the highlight of Bungalow kitchens - was incorporated throughout: 1) An angled cabinet, built to accommodate an awkward side door location, now holds a trash can, tin-lined recycling bins, and a knife drawer; 2) A difficult deep corner necessitated by the 28” deep fridge gave rise to open cookbook shelves, an appliance cubby and narrow, and a deep pantry with full-extension roll-out trays; 3) An open pot & pan rack, built-in wall spice cabinet, kid-height microwave (a special request from our clients), customized cell-phone/electronics storage, built-in chalk board message center, and new rear entry coat/backpack storage with cork board complete the net storage gain. No new square footage … lots of new, innovative, high-functioning storage.

English – Project Description This project involved the complete transformation of a small bedroom in Mexico City, redefining the space through integrated architectural millwork and a clear, cohesive design strategy. Prior to the intervention, the room lacked sufficient storage and contained a mix of unrelated furniture pieces that created visual clutter and inefficient use of space. The design addressed these limitations by replacing all existing furniture with custom-built elements conceived as part of the architectural envelope. Two full-height closets were designed to significantly increase storage capacity and establish visual order. One closet was executed during the initial phase, with the second planned for future implementation to further optimize the space. In addition, a continuous storage volume was integrated above the bed, incorporating concealed compartments and linear integrated lighting that provides soft, indirect illumination. A wood headboard panel was introduced to bring warmth and material balance to the composition, contrasting with the clean, neutral millwork and reinforcing the architectural identity of the space. By consolidating storage into integrated elements and eliminating fragmented furniture, the intervention freed usable floor area, improved circulation, and created a calm, organized, and visually coherent environment. The result is a contemporary bedroom that prioritizes spatial clarity, functional efficiency, and material harmony through precise architectural integration. Español – Descripción del Proyecto Este proyecto consistió en la transformación completa de una recámara pequeña en la Ciudad de México, redefiniendo el espacio mediante carpintería arquitectónica integrada y una estrategia de diseño clara y coherente. Antes de la intervención, la recámara carecía de suficiente espacio de guardado y contenía una mezcla de muebles sin relación entre sí, lo que generaba desorden visual y un uso ineficiente del espacio. El diseño resolvió estas limitaciones reemplazando el mobiliario existente por elementos hechos a medida, concebidos como parte de la arquitectura. Se diseñaron dos closets de altura completa para incrementar significativamente la capacidad de almacenamiento y establecer orden visual. Uno de los closets fue construido en la primera etapa, mientras que el segundo está previsto para una futura implementación, con el fin de optimizar aún más el espacio. Adicionalmente, se integró un volumen continuo de guardado sobre la cama, incorporando compartimentos ocultos e iluminación lineal integrada que proporciona luz indirecta y uniforme. Se introdujo un panel de madera como cabecera para aportar calidez y balance material a la composición, contrastando con la carpintería neutra y reforzando la identidad arquitectónica del espacio. Al consolidar el almacenamiento en elementos integrados y eliminar el mobiliario fragmentado, la intervención liberó superficie útil, mejoró la circulación y creó un ambiente tranquilo, ordenado y visualmente coherente. El resultado es una recámara contemporánea que prioriza la claridad espacial, la eficiencia funcional y la armonía material mediante una integración arquitectónica precisa.

Bar Countertop Materials: Zinc
Large transitional u-shaped dark wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Atlanta with recessed-panel cabinets, distressed cabinets, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

English – Project Description This project involved the complete transformation of a small bedroom in Mexico City, redefining the space through integrated architectural millwork and a clear, cohesive design strategy. Prior to the intervention, the room lacked sufficient storage and contained a mix of unrelated furniture pieces that created visual clutter and inefficient use of space. The design addressed these limitations by replacing all existing furniture with custom-built elements conceived as part of the architectural envelope. Two full-height closets were designed to significantly increase storage capacity and establish visual order. One closet was executed during the initial phase, with the second planned for future implementation to further optimize the space. In addition, a continuous storage volume was integrated above the bed, incorporating concealed compartments and linear integrated lighting that provides soft, indirect illumination. A wood headboard panel was introduced to bring warmth and material balance to the composition, contrasting with the clean, neutral millwork and reinforcing the architectural identity of the space. By consolidating storage into integrated elements and eliminating fragmented furniture, the intervention freed usable floor area, improved circulation, and created a calm, organized, and visually coherent environment. The result is a contemporary bedroom that prioritizes spatial clarity, functional efficiency, and material harmony through precise architectural integration. Español – Descripción del Proyecto Este proyecto consistió en la transformación completa de una recámara pequeña en la Ciudad de México, redefiniendo el espacio mediante carpintería arquitectónica integrada y una estrategia de diseño clara y coherente. Antes de la intervención, la recámara carecía de suficiente espacio de guardado y contenía una mezcla de muebles sin relación entre sí, lo que generaba desorden visual y un uso ineficiente del espacio. El diseño resolvió estas limitaciones reemplazando el mobiliario existente por elementos hechos a medida, concebidos como parte de la arquitectura. Se diseñaron dos closets de altura completa para incrementar significativamente la capacidad de almacenamiento y establecer orden visual. Uno de los closets fue construido en la primera etapa, mientras que el segundo está previsto para una futura implementación, con el fin de optimizar aún más el espacio. Adicionalmente, se integró un volumen continuo de guardado sobre la cama, incorporando compartimentos ocultos e iluminación lineal integrada que proporciona luz indirecta y uniforme. Se introdujo un panel de madera como cabecera para aportar calidez y balance material a la composición, contrastando con la carpintería neutra y reforzando la identidad arquitectónica del espacio. Al consolidar el almacenamiento en elementos integrados y eliminar el mobiliario fragmentado, la intervención liberó superficie útil, mejoró la circulación y creó un ambiente tranquilo, ordenado y visualmente coherente. El resultado es una recámara contemporánea que prioriza la claridad espacial, la eficiencia funcional y la armonía material mediante una integración arquitectónica precisa.

English – Project Description This project involved the complete transformation of a small bedroom in Mexico City, redefining the space through integrated architectural millwork and a clear, cohesive design strategy. Prior to the intervention, the room lacked sufficient storage and contained a mix of unrelated furniture pieces that created visual clutter and inefficient use of space. The design addressed these limitations by replacing all existing furniture with custom-built elements conceived as part of the architectural envelope. Two full-height closets were designed to significantly increase storage capacity and establish visual order. One closet was executed during the initial phase, with the second planned for future implementation to further optimize the space. In addition, a continuous storage volume was integrated above the bed, incorporating concealed compartments and linear integrated lighting that provides soft, indirect illumination. A wood headboard panel was introduced to bring warmth and material balance to the composition, contrasting with the clean, neutral millwork and reinforcing the architectural identity of the space. By consolidating storage into integrated elements and eliminating fragmented furniture, the intervention freed usable floor area, improved circulation, and created a calm, organized, and visually coherent environment. The result is a contemporary bedroom that prioritizes spatial clarity, functional efficiency, and material harmony through precise architectural integration. Español – Descripción del Proyecto Este proyecto consistió en la transformación completa de una recámara pequeña en la Ciudad de México, redefiniendo el espacio mediante carpintería arquitectónica integrada y una estrategia de diseño clara y coherente. Antes de la intervención, la recámara carecía de suficiente espacio de guardado y contenía una mezcla de muebles sin relación entre sí, lo que generaba desorden visual y un uso ineficiente del espacio. El diseño resolvió estas limitaciones reemplazando el mobiliario existente por elementos hechos a medida, concebidos como parte de la arquitectura. Se diseñaron dos closets de altura completa para incrementar significativamente la capacidad de almacenamiento y establecer orden visual. Uno de los closets fue construido en la primera etapa, mientras que el segundo está previsto para una futura implementación, con el fin de optimizar aún más el espacio. Adicionalmente, se integró un volumen continuo de guardado sobre la cama, incorporando compartimentos ocultos e iluminación lineal integrada que proporciona luz indirecta y uniforme. Se introdujo un panel de madera como cabecera para aportar calidez y balance material a la composición, contrastando con la carpintería neutra y reforzando la identidad arquitectónica del espacio. Al consolidar el almacenamiento en elementos integrados y eliminar el mobiliario fragmentado, la intervención liberó superficie útil, mejoró la circulación y creó un ambiente tranquilo, ordenado y visualmente coherente. El resultado es una recámara contemporánea que prioriza la claridad espacial, la eficiencia funcional y la armonía material mediante una integración arquitectónica precisa.

English – Project Description This project involved the complete transformation of a small bedroom in Mexico City, redefining the space through integrated architectural millwork and a clear, cohesive design strategy. Prior to the intervention, the room lacked sufficient storage and contained a mix of unrelated furniture pieces that created visual clutter and inefficient use of space. The design addressed these limitations by replacing all existing furniture with custom-built elements conceived as part of the architectural envelope. Two full-height closets were designed to significantly increase storage capacity and establish visual order. One closet was executed during the initial phase, with the second planned for future implementation to further optimize the space. In addition, a continuous storage volume was integrated above the bed, incorporating concealed compartments and linear integrated lighting that provides soft, indirect illumination. A wood headboard panel was introduced to bring warmth and material balance to the composition, contrasting with the clean, neutral millwork and reinforcing the architectural identity of the space. By consolidating storage into integrated elements and eliminating fragmented furniture, the intervention freed usable floor area, improved circulation, and created a calm, organized, and visually coherent environment. The result is a contemporary bedroom that prioritizes spatial clarity, functional efficiency, and material harmony through precise architectural integration. Español – Descripción del Proyecto Este proyecto consistió en la transformación completa de una recámara pequeña en la Ciudad de México, redefiniendo el espacio mediante carpintería arquitectónica integrada y una estrategia de diseño clara y coherente. Antes de la intervención, la recámara carecía de suficiente espacio de guardado y contenía una mezcla de muebles sin relación entre sí, lo que generaba desorden visual y un uso ineficiente del espacio. El diseño resolvió estas limitaciones reemplazando el mobiliario existente por elementos hechos a medida, concebidos como parte de la arquitectura. Se diseñaron dos closets de altura completa para incrementar significativamente la capacidad de almacenamiento y establecer orden visual. Uno de los closets fue construido en la primera etapa, mientras que el segundo está previsto para una futura implementación, con el fin de optimizar aún más el espacio. Adicionalmente, se integró un volumen continuo de guardado sobre la cama, incorporando compartimentos ocultos e iluminación lineal integrada que proporciona luz indirecta y uniforme. Se introdujo un panel de madera como cabecera para aportar calidez y balance material a la composición, contrastando con la carpintería neutra y reforzando la identidad arquitectónica del espacio. Al consolidar el almacenamiento en elementos integrados y eliminar el mobiliario fragmentado, la intervención liberó superficie útil, mejoró la circulación y creó un ambiente tranquilo, ordenado y visualmente coherente. El resultado es una recámara contemporánea que prioriza la claridad espacial, la eficiencia funcional y la armonía material mediante una integración arquitectónica precisa.

English – Project Description This project involved the complete transformation of a small bedroom in Mexico City, redefining the space through integrated architectural millwork and a clear, cohesive design strategy. Prior to the intervention, the room lacked sufficient storage and contained a mix of unrelated furniture pieces that created visual clutter and inefficient use of space. The design addressed these limitations by replacing all existing furniture with custom-built elements conceived as part of the architectural envelope. Two full-height closets were designed to significantly increase storage capacity and establish visual order. One closet was executed during the initial phase, with the second planned for future implementation to further optimize the space. In addition, a continuous storage volume was integrated above the bed, incorporating concealed compartments and linear integrated lighting that provides soft, indirect illumination. A wood headboard panel was introduced to bring warmth and material balance to the composition, contrasting with the clean, neutral millwork and reinforcing the architectural identity of the space. By consolidating storage into integrated elements and eliminating fragmented furniture, the intervention freed usable floor area, improved circulation, and created a calm, organized, and visually coherent environment. The result is a contemporary bedroom that prioritizes spatial clarity, functional efficiency, and material harmony through precise architectural integration. Español – Descripción del Proyecto Este proyecto consistió en la transformación completa de una recámara pequeña en la Ciudad de México, redefiniendo el espacio mediante carpintería arquitectónica integrada y una estrategia de diseño clara y coherente. Antes de la intervención, la recámara carecía de suficiente espacio de guardado y contenía una mezcla de muebles sin relación entre sí, lo que generaba desorden visual y un uso ineficiente del espacio. El diseño resolvió estas limitaciones reemplazando el mobiliario existente por elementos hechos a medida, concebidos como parte de la arquitectura. Se diseñaron dos closets de altura completa para incrementar significativamente la capacidad de almacenamiento y establecer orden visual. Uno de los closets fue construido en la primera etapa, mientras que el segundo está previsto para una futura implementación, con el fin de optimizar aún más el espacio. Adicionalmente, se integró un volumen continuo de guardado sobre la cama, incorporando compartimentos ocultos e iluminación lineal integrada que proporciona luz indirecta y uniforme. Se introdujo un panel de madera como cabecera para aportar calidez y balance material a la composición, contrastando con la carpintería neutra y reforzando la identidad arquitectónica del espacio. Al consolidar el almacenamiento en elementos integrados y eliminar el mobiliario fragmentado, la intervención liberó superficie útil, mejoró la circulación y creó un ambiente tranquilo, ordenado y visualmente coherente. El resultado es una recámara contemporánea que prioriza la claridad espacial, la eficiencia funcional y la armonía material mediante una integración arquitectónica precisa.