This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

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

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The continuous red oak handrail is what holds this multistory staircase together. It flows uninterrupted from floor to floor, guiding the hand and the eye in equal measure. Round metal balusters rise in clean rhythm beneath it, their slender profiles keeping the composition open. Red oak treads with nosing carry the warmth of the handrail through every step, grounded by crisp white painted risers that reflect the natural light flooding the space. Modern in feel, considered in every detail. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Overlooking the iconic Bosphorus Strait, this Istanbul condominium blends contemporary comfort with panoramic sea and city views. Furnished by LAZZONI, the living room and bedroom reflect a refined approach to modern living, inspired by the calming principles of Japandi design—a fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality. Natural textures, muted tones, and clean-lined furniture bring warmth and simplicity to the space. In the living area, soft upholstery and sleek surfaces emphasize light and openness, while the bedroom offers a peaceful, uncluttered retreat. Every detail—from layout to materials—was chosen to embody balance, intentionality, and a sense of grounded tranquility. This project captures LAZZONI’s vision of design-led serenity, where elevated interiors connect with both natural surroundings and everyday function. In the living space, a clean-lined modular sofa anchors the room, complemented by sleek accent pieces that reflect natural light and enhance the open layout. The bedroom continues the theme of minimal comfort, with soft textures, warm tones, and space-maximizing elements ideal for high-rise living. This project reflects LAZZONI’s vision of modern luxury, where every piece is tailored to elevate daily life while staying rooted in simplicity and function—all set against one of the most captivating backdrops in the world.

Our client is a huge cook and wanted the kitchen to continue in the theme of being designed for guests. Renowned Renovation built the owner’s dream kitchen in a relatively small, yet highly efficient, space. As you can see in the photos, the kitchen is open to the living room, making sure the cook is still in the mix of the company. A large quartzite countertop was designed to also double as a banquet-style serving area for parties. The client choose Renowned Cabinetry and Grant and his team designed the kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, wet-bar, and a hutch on the lower-level. This kitchen was custom-designed with all high-end appliances. From the 36” Thermador refrigerator with a touch-to-close door to a Miele built-in coffee maker—functionality and comfort pave the way for the best in luxury kitchen renovation. We also choose a Miele Steam Oven, for a top-of-the-line innovation for a home cooking experience. “The unique external steam generation in the form of Miele MultiSteam technology ensures perfect results,” for all cooking needs. The Kitchen lighting was impressively designed. There are recessed down and recessed directional lighting with independent switches. We installed Lutron Caseta lighting, a high-end Smart controlled system. By having more control over the lighting you will always be sure to be able to set the mood. This system also allows you to control your lights from an app so you’re able to turn on lights in the house when you’re nowhere near it. The kitchen design is beautifully enhanced by the premium Quartzite countertops and backsplash. This is a silver macabus quartzite stone that has a natural shine and durability. One end of the countertop is a waterfall edge. This provides a clean vertical drop down the side of the counter. The effect is a modern look that eliminates the separation from the counter to cabinets. The backsplash is the same quartzite countertops. It’s a separate piece but it appears as one continuous stone that lines up to meet the hand-crafted line of Renowned Cabinetry. Many designers will suggest elaborate and decorative backsplashes as a feature to a kitchen renovation. In this home, and for a modern and minimalistic look, the goal is to use the same materials. The look is elegant, beautiful and simplistic. It’s not sticking out or catching anyone’s eye.

A new multifunctional island creates additional seating, storage, and workspace while connecting the kitchen to the open living area. Beyond the french doors, a flexible bonus room serves as a dedicated home office and easily converts into comfortable guest accommodations with a Murphy bed. New quartz countertops, restored cabinetry, continuous luxury vinyl plank flooring, and custom wallcoverings tie the spaces together in this thoughtfully updated Denver high-rise condominium.

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

Overlooking the iconic Bosphorus Strait, this Istanbul condominium blends contemporary comfort with panoramic sea and city views. Furnished by LAZZONI, the living room and bedroom reflect a refined approach to modern living, inspired by the calming principles of Japandi design—a fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality. Natural textures, muted tones, and clean-lined furniture bring warmth and simplicity to the space. In the living area, soft upholstery and sleek surfaces emphasize light and openness, while the bedroom offers a peaceful, uncluttered retreat. Every detail—from layout to materials—was chosen to embody balance, intentionality, and a sense of grounded tranquility. This project captures LAZZONI’s vision of design-led serenity, where elevated interiors connect with both natural surroundings and everyday function. In the living space, a clean-lined modular sofa anchors the room, complemented by sleek accent pieces that reflect natural light and enhance the open layout. The bedroom continues the theme of minimal comfort, with soft textures, warm tones, and space-maximizing elements ideal for high-rise living. This project reflects LAZZONI’s vision of modern luxury, where every piece is tailored to elevate daily life while staying rooted in simplicity and function—all set against one of the most captivating backdrops in the world.

The continuous red oak handrail is what holds this multistory staircase together. It flows uninterrupted from floor to floor, guiding the hand and the eye in equal measure. Round metal balusters rise in clean rhythm beneath it, their slender profiles keeping the composition open. Red oak treads with nosing carry the warmth of the handrail through every step, grounded by crisp white painted risers that reflect the natural light flooding the space. Modern in feel, considered in every detail. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The continuous red oak handrail is what holds this multistory staircase together. It flows uninterrupted from floor to floor, guiding the hand and the eye in equal measure. Round metal balusters rise in clean rhythm beneath it, their slender profiles keeping the composition open. Red oak treads with nosing carry the warmth of the handrail through every step, grounded by crisp white painted risers that reflect the natural light flooding the space. Modern in feel, considered in every detail. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Our client is a huge cook and wanted the kitchen to continue in the theme of being designed for guests. Renowned Renovation built the owner’s dream kitchen in a relatively small, yet highly efficient, space. As you can see in the photos, the kitchen is open to the living room, making sure the cook is still in the mix of the company. A large quartzite countertop was designed to also double as a banquet-style serving area for parties. The client choose Renowned Cabinetry and Grant and his team designed the kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, wet-bar, and a hutch on the lower-level. This kitchen was custom-designed with all high-end appliances. From the 36” Thermador refrigerator with a touch-to-close door to a Miele built-in coffee maker—functionality and comfort pave the way for the best in luxury kitchen renovation. We also choose a Miele Steam Oven, for a top-of-the-line innovation for a home cooking experience. “The unique external steam generation in the form of Miele MultiSteam technology ensures perfect results,” for all cooking needs. The Kitchen lighting was impressively designed. There are recessed down and recessed directional lighting with independent switches. We installed Lutron Caseta lighting, a high-end Smart controlled system. By having more control over the lighting you will always be sure to be able to set the mood. This system also allows you to control your lights from an app so you’re able to turn on lights in the house when you’re nowhere near it. The kitchen design is beautifully enhanced by the premium Quartzite countertops and backsplash. This is a silver macabus quartzite stone that has a natural shine and durability. One end of the countertop is a waterfall edge. This provides a clean vertical drop down the side of the counter. The effect is a modern look that eliminates the separation from the counter to cabinets. The backsplash is the same quartzite countertops. It’s a separate piece but it appears as one continuous stone that lines up to meet the hand-crafted line of Renowned Cabinetry. Many designers will suggest elaborate and decorative backsplashes as a feature to a kitchen renovation. In this home, and for a modern and minimalistic look, the goal is to use the same materials. The look is elegant, beautiful and simplistic. It’s not sticking out or catching anyone’s eye.

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This monumental floating staircase rises three full levels in front of a massive window wall. Thick oak treads are supported by double, black stringers that rise from the floor, creating a bold architectural statement. The open-riser design allows natural light from the expansive windows to flood through all levels, illuminating the surrounding interior spaces. Vertical metal balusters complete the modern aesthetic, maintaining transparency while providing safety. The U-shaped configuration and cantilevered construction transform what could be a simple vertical connection into a dramatic focal point that celebrates both structure and light. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The continuous red oak handrail is what holds this multistory staircase together. It flows uninterrupted from floor to floor, guiding the hand and the eye in equal measure. Round metal balusters rise in clean rhythm beneath it, their slender profiles keeping the composition open. Red oak treads with nosing carry the warmth of the handrail through every step, grounded by crisp white painted risers that reflect the natural light flooding the space. Modern in feel, considered in every detail. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company