Search results for "Creating engaging" in Home Design Ideas

Urban Family Retreat at Gampaha | A Vision of Seamless Flow
In the heart of Gampaha, an extraordinary residential project has emerged—a refined family retreat that balances modern design with comfort and functionality. The "Pass By Spaces" concept, central to this architectural vision, ensures that each area of the home flows seamlessly into the next. This thoughtful design approach creates a sense of unity and connection throughout the home, offering a sophisticated yet tranquil living experience for its residents.
The Design Concept: "Pass By Spaces"
The underlying philosophy of the project centers on the concept of “Pass By Spaces”—a circulation strategy that serves as the spine of the home. By utilizing this continuous circulation, the design allows the different spaces to interact with one another naturally. From the family living room to the study, guest areas, and private bedrooms, each function flows into the next through this unified circulation, creating a harmonious journey through the home. This approach not only enhances spatial connectivity but also fosters a sense of movement, encouraging ease and fluidity in daily living.
Architectural Team & Project Details
• Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage contact | 076 869 0315
• Junior Architects | Sewwandi Nayanathara / Isuri Hettiarachchi
• Structural Engineer | Mr. Mahinda Rathnasiri
• Contractor | Mr. Lal Anura | Lal Construction
• Interior Architecture | Tharanga Hewage Chartered Architect
• Interior design and Contractor | Monara Creations
• Furniture | Singhe Furniture
• Window Fashion | Dilshan Drapers
• Wall Arts | Chakad Creation
• Land Extent | 25.01 perches
• Total Floor Area | 5059 sqft
• Ground Floor | 2802 sqft
• First Floor | 1878 sqft
• Roof Slab & Terraces | 379 sqft
• Photography | Ganidu Balasuriya photography
• Videography | Neyomal Rangeeth
Key Features of the Residence
Exterior and Car Porch:
The home’s exterior is marked by a sleek, modern design that complements its surroundings. A two-vehicle car porch provides ample space and easy access, while maintaining an elegant, minimalistic aesthetic.
Main Circulation:
The hallmark of this design is its single-spine circulation, which connects all key areas of the home. This circulation serves as the backbone of the house, facilitating smooth transitions between private and social spaces. The careful placement of rooms ensures that the flow is intuitive and unobtrusive, allowing each space to remain distinct while still being interconnected.
Interior Layout:
• Bedrooms: The home features five generously sized bedrooms, each designed to offer privacy and comfort. Some bedrooms include private terraces, providing residents with an intimate outdoor space.
• Family & Guest Areas: The expansive family living room is a central gathering space, complemented by a mini pantry for convenience. A dedicated guest living and dining area ensures that visitors enjoy a separate, comfortable space.
• Work & Study: A tranquil study room offers a quiet area for focus and reflection, while a flexible meeting room is perfect for professional engagements or personal gatherings.
• Private Spaces: In addition to the main living areas, the home includes a maid’s room, a laundry room, and four well-appointed bathrooms, including a powder room for guests.
• Storage & Utility: Thoughtful planning includes a generator room and ample storage space to meet the needs of modern living.
Design Considerations
A primary focus of the design is to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the home. The strategic placement of windows, terraces, and open spaces ensures that every room benefits from an abundance of daylight and fresh air, creating an airy and welcoming environment.
Sustainability also plays a key role in this design. Eco-friendly materials are incorporated to ensure energy efficiency, while landscaping is carefully integrated to maintain harmony between the indoors and the surrounding environment. These design elements allow the home to feel like a serene retreat amidst the urban landscape of Gampaha.
Conclusion
The “Pass By Spaces” design concept not only elevates the architectural experience but also fosters a sense of connection and tranquility for the residents of this urban family retreat. With a seamless flow between spaces, thoughtful use of materials, and an emphasis on sustainability, this home exemplifies a modern approach to residential design that prioritizes both style and functionality. For prospective homeowners looking to create a space that embodies both beauty and practicality, this project serves as a testament to what can be achieved through innovative design and meticulous attention to detail.
Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage
contact | 076 869 0315
Website | Design portfolio
https://www.tharangahewage.com/
https://www.behance.net/tharangaon71a4
Facebook Page | Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/Archt.tharangahewage
https://www.instagram.com/architect_tharanga_hewage/
YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZLpclw5H62sOfvBz94XFOA
Linkedin
http://www.linkedin.com/.../archt-tharanga-hewage-aia-sl...
Copyright © 2025 | Archt. Tharanga Sandaruwan Hewage, B.Arch. (Hons), AIA(SL). All Rights Reserved.

Located on a marsh in the upper reaches of the Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, the existing house was well-sited and well-built, but the design failed to exploit the views and more importantly was a confused combination of contemporary and traditional elements. The new homeowners, a successful businesswoman and an accomplished artist and photographer, were interested in creating a fully-contemporary environment to open up space, connect indoors with outdoors, display artwork and showcase the husband’s distinctive photographs.
One glaring deficiency was the curb appeal and approach sequence: the grade sloped down and the path to the house followed, but this led to an uncomfortable dip and abrupt rise to the front door. By creating a virtual “moat,” occupied by a grid of raised-bed grasses contained in aluminum-clad boxes, and spanning the moat with an ipe bridge, the approach becomes level and engaging. The façade of the existing house was blank and bland, and with no cover. Adding a deep overhang with a wide porch creates a welcoming, covered condition, accentuated by a 6’ wide pivoting front door that feels more like a moving piece of wall.
Another deficiency was the connection to the outdoors. By adding glass to the front and back of the house, and removing interior walls selectively, the house takes on a diaphanous quality that allows one to see through to the marsh beyond, even when in the driveway. The raised-bed grasses act as abstract, geometric versions of the marsh beyond. A large, pyramidal skylight establishes a spatial hierarchy around which the rooms revolve.
The house featured several tray-ceilinged spaces – living room, kitchen, and master bedroom – that were poorly-proportioned and with panels at the top that resembled inset flat panel doors. The solution was to use a different strategy for each: the bedroom turns the ceiling into an eggshell through the use of a creative trim detail; the living room has an oversized sculptural, backlit lighting element; and the kitchen has a collage of painted rectangular forms that support or include lighting pieces.
A palette of concrete, blackened steel, stainless steel and colors carefully chosen by homeowner and architect create an interior and exterior environment punctuated by moments that are as artistic as the featured works in the black-ceilinged gallery.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.
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Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Urban Family Retreat at Gampaha | A Vision of Seamless Flow
In the heart of Gampaha, an extraordinary residential project has emerged—a refined family retreat that balances modern design with comfort and functionality. The "Pass By Spaces" concept, central to this architectural vision, ensures that each area of the home flows seamlessly into the next. This thoughtful design approach creates a sense of unity and connection throughout the home, offering a sophisticated yet tranquil living experience for its residents.
The Design Concept: "Pass By Spaces"
The underlying philosophy of the project centers on the concept of “Pass By Spaces”—a circulation strategy that serves as the spine of the home. By utilizing this continuous circulation, the design allows the different spaces to interact with one another naturally. From the family living room to the study, guest areas, and private bedrooms, each function flows into the next through this unified circulation, creating a harmonious journey through the home. This approach not only enhances spatial connectivity but also fosters a sense of movement, encouraging ease and fluidity in daily living.
Architectural Team & Project Details
• Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage contact | 076 869 0315
• Junior Architects | Sewwandi Nayanathara / Isuri Hettiarachchi
• Structural Engineer | Mr. Mahinda Rathnasiri
• Contractor | Mr. Lal Anura | Lal Construction
• Interior Architecture | Tharanga Hewage Chartered Architect
• Interior design and Contractor | Monara Creations
• Furniture | Singhe Furniture
• Window Fashion | Dilshan Drapers
• Wall Arts | Chakad Creation
• Land Extent | 25.01 perches
• Total Floor Area | 5059 sqft
• Ground Floor | 2802 sqft
• First Floor | 1878 sqft
• Roof Slab & Terraces | 379 sqft
• Photography | Ganidu Balasuriya photography
• Videography | Neyomal Rangeeth
Key Features of the Residence
Exterior and Car Porch:
The home’s exterior is marked by a sleek, modern design that complements its surroundings. A two-vehicle car porch provides ample space and easy access, while maintaining an elegant, minimalistic aesthetic.
Main Circulation:
The hallmark of this design is its single-spine circulation, which connects all key areas of the home. This circulation serves as the backbone of the house, facilitating smooth transitions between private and social spaces. The careful placement of rooms ensures that the flow is intuitive and unobtrusive, allowing each space to remain distinct while still being interconnected.
Interior Layout:
• Bedrooms: The home features five generously sized bedrooms, each designed to offer privacy and comfort. Some bedrooms include private terraces, providing residents with an intimate outdoor space.
• Family & Guest Areas: The expansive family living room is a central gathering space, complemented by a mini pantry for convenience. A dedicated guest living and dining area ensures that visitors enjoy a separate, comfortable space.
• Work & Study: A tranquil study room offers a quiet area for focus and reflection, while a flexible meeting room is perfect for professional engagements or personal gatherings.
• Private Spaces: In addition to the main living areas, the home includes a maid’s room, a laundry room, and four well-appointed bathrooms, including a powder room for guests.
• Storage & Utility: Thoughtful planning includes a generator room and ample storage space to meet the needs of modern living.
Design Considerations
A primary focus of the design is to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the home. The strategic placement of windows, terraces, and open spaces ensures that every room benefits from an abundance of daylight and fresh air, creating an airy and welcoming environment.
Sustainability also plays a key role in this design. Eco-friendly materials are incorporated to ensure energy efficiency, while landscaping is carefully integrated to maintain harmony between the indoors and the surrounding environment. These design elements allow the home to feel like a serene retreat amidst the urban landscape of Gampaha.
Conclusion
The “Pass By Spaces” design concept not only elevates the architectural experience but also fosters a sense of connection and tranquility for the residents of this urban family retreat. With a seamless flow between spaces, thoughtful use of materials, and an emphasis on sustainability, this home exemplifies a modern approach to residential design that prioritizes both style and functionality. For prospective homeowners looking to create a space that embodies both beauty and practicality, this project serves as a testament to what can be achieved through innovative design and meticulous attention to detail.
Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage
contact | 076 869 0315
Website | Design portfolio
https://www.tharangahewage.com/
https://www.behance.net/tharangaon71a4
Facebook Page | Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/Archt.tharangahewage
https://www.instagram.com/architect_tharanga_hewage/
YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZLpclw5H62sOfvBz94XFOA
Linkedin
http://www.linkedin.com/.../archt-tharanga-hewage-aia-sl...
Copyright © 2025 | Archt. Tharanga Sandaruwan Hewage, B.Arch. (Hons), AIA(SL). All Rights Reserved.

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Kandinsky modern pillow cover composition cushion cover-Knowing that Kandinsky portrayed the soul as concentric circles, we see in this pillow cover, perhaps the eye of the soul or seeds and ovum. Gorgeous color swathes the cushion cover, a fusion of the hand-dyed Kashmiri wool and the expert needlework. The hand worked modern pillow cover is of the finest chainstitch, the stitch of an accomplished artisan, finer than crewel. The kaleidoscopic design deserves to be seen and experienced. This cover will be an attention-getter no matter where you put it. The Kashmir wool thread makes it soft to the touch, and the raised-swirl texture of the embroidery delights the senses.
Composition: 70% Wool, 30% Cotton
Size: 18' x 18' (45 cms x 45 cms)
Pillow Insert not Included (Only Cover is on Sale)
Hand embroidered in Village Cottage Units
Backing: Canvas (See the Last Picture)
A close-up view of this abstract pillow cover allows you to see the amazing chain-stitch embroidery work of master artisans who have practiced this art their entire lives.This abstract decorative pillow cover could grace the cabin of your boat or the chair in your solarium and yet be equally as comfortable in your den. The eye-popping color and pattern of this modern throw pillow are just what the designer ordered to create a fiery focal point in your decor. Perfect wherever you need a splash of color, this artwork pillow creation is as durable as it is beautiful. Easy to care for, this cushion cover could spark up an old throw pillow or grace a new pillow form.
Kandinsky conveyed profound spirituality and inner human emotion through a visual language of abstract forms and colors that transcended cultural and physical boundaries. He used interrelation between color and form to create an aesthetic experience that engaged the sight, sound, and emotions of the viewer. Kandinsky viewed music as the most transcendent form of non-objective art musicians could evoke images in listeners‚ minds merely with sounds.
He crafted spiritually rich paintings that alluded to sounds and emotions through sensations. Modern Artist Wassily Kandinsky used the form of concentric circles to portray the soul. Rendered here as chain stitch embroidery in wool, this cushion cover can create a new personality for any room in which you choose to use it.
The eye-popping color and pattern of this modern throw pillow are just what the designer ordered to create a fiery focal point in your decor. Perfect wherever you need a splash of color, this artwork pillow creation is as durable as it is beautiful. Easy to care for, this cushion cover could spark up an old throw pillow or grace a new pillow form.

There are not many things better than a room full of your favourite people. As you gather you smell dinner cooking in the kitchen and music playing in the background, as joyful conversation and laughter fill the room. I feel so grateful that we are inching our way back to these days. How about you?
The project I’m sharing with you today has beautiful moments like these at its heart. Spaces that invite people in, foster connection, and make everyday living so simple that it’s impossible not to enjoy...
Meet our Delightful Clients:
The family behind this 1950s North Vancouver home transformation enjoy entertaining friends just as much as cosying up to watch a movie together. A professional couple (I'll call them Jon and Anna) with two elementary school-aged sons, Anna and Jon approached us with the task of furnishing the main floor living spaces and the basement of their family home.
Anna is a busy lawyer who is now working almost full time from home, and Jon works in the film industry. With full careers, two active boys, and a love of gathering, they craved a home that could support their everyday lifestyle.
Design and Lifestyle Goals:
Our central goal for this project was simple: to uncover the hidden potential in their home and create a family-friendly space that functioned well and flowed seamlessly.
On the main floor, our clients tasked us with creating an area for the family to relax and entertain, along with crafting a work and play space for the boys. They also dreamed of a more functional and bright basement, which they envisioned as a dual purpose family room and home office for Anna.
Reveal: Comfortable and Welcoming Entryway & Living Room:
Imagine you are coming home, and you walk through a bright, sunny front door like this one. You are met by this entryway of calming earth and sea tones, paired with warm, natural wood flooring. You feel instantly welcomed and eager to venture further inside... The same is now true for our clients!
The simple details in their entryway are thoughtfully arranged with clean lines and colourful art as the focal point, achieving a timeless and friendly aesthetic. Dried wheat brings movement into the space and plays up the beauty of nature, while the vibrant yet warm colours and textures evoke feelings of comfort and homecoming.
The entry flows seamlessly into this connected living area, which is adorned with ample seating strategically arranged to host and accommodate joyful conversations. With the fireplace and wood mantel as the focal point, these natural elements and hues warm up the room to make it feel beautifully lived-in (not like an untouchable museum).
Another colourful work of art graces the space above Jon’s and Anna’s sofa, and we used decorative pillows and a throw blanket to tempt those colours into the rest of the room. A simply styled coffee table keeps the space feeling open and engaged. Reading material, anyone?
Just beyond this living area, you get a glimpse of the second space our clients requested on their main floor...
A Collected Space for Children to Work + Play:
When Jon and Anna realised that their formal dining area wasn’t being used to its full potential, they imagined creating a work and play space for their boys instead. We came up with a plan to create a shared desk area with plentiful storage.
This timeless natural wood desk was the perfect way to maximise surface area and give the boys plenty of space to do homework during the school year, or spend time crafting or building LEGOs during the summers. The drawers provide storage for all the wonderful items that fuel their productivity or creativity. Or both.
I also love how the white floating shelves display a collection of nostalgic toys, providing just the right amount of childhood endearment to this sophisticated and functional space. This workspace now has endless possibilities for the boys, and it helps Jon and Anna keep their minds and spaces clear, too. Which brings us to...
Basement Family Room & Home Office:
In general, we knew we had to maximise surface area in this ‘50s home, and this was especially true for our clients’ basement. I’m happy to say that we designed an effortlessly comfortable space that focuses on family and makes it simple to settle in and work… or leave the workday behind.
Welcome to this dual-function office and family room. Toward the back of the room, we strategically positioned Anna’s wraparound desk facing out into the room and gave her a wallpaper-and-art backdrop for stunning Zoom calls (she has already received glowing compliments). There is plenty of storage for easy organization including a space to store the family’s shared printer near the door… so they don’t have to interrupt “Mom” to get to it.
Anna also wanted the freedom to be able to relax in this space with her family and turn her back on the work day — quite literally! The sofa is perfectly positioned backing onto the desk allowing her to do just that.
We relocated an existing mustard yellow chair and used pops of the same colour to integrate it into the overall scheme. The wood armrests on this modular sectional provide surfaces for snacks and drinks where there was no room for an end table. The walnut finish carries the theme of natural comfort from the upstairs spaces down into the family room.
The view from the sectional is less business and more pleasure, featuring cosy seating and throw pillows in cheerful colours and patterns.
The highlight of this space? A wallpapered accent wall where we were able to achieve the high-end feel of custom built-in shelving with a simple IKEA hack. The shelves and cabinetry around the television offer plenty of much needed storage space to house family games and movies at a budget price point.
This fun room is the perfect balance of work and play, accommodating and supporting our clients’ daily family adventures.
What Our Clients Had to Say...
Our clients could not be happier with their warm yet functional new rooms. With thoughtful consideration and a plan of action, we were able to transform two areas of their home into spaces that function well and feel good. In fact, they had this to say:
“Lori and her team were everything we were looking for: great listeners, wonderfully creative and highly professional. We couldn't be happier with our interior makeover.” — Clients
That is why we do what we do. If you're ready to start your redesign project, we would love to help. Reach out to us here, and let's get to know more about each other.

Urban Family Retreat at Gampaha | A Vision of Seamless Flow
In the heart of Gampaha, an extraordinary residential project has emerged—a refined family retreat that balances modern design with comfort and functionality. The "Pass By Spaces" concept, central to this architectural vision, ensures that each area of the home flows seamlessly into the next. This thoughtful design approach creates a sense of unity and connection throughout the home, offering a sophisticated yet tranquil living experience for its residents.
The Design Concept: "Pass By Spaces"
The underlying philosophy of the project centers on the concept of “Pass By Spaces”—a circulation strategy that serves as the spine of the home. By utilizing this continuous circulation, the design allows the different spaces to interact with one another naturally. From the family living room to the study, guest areas, and private bedrooms, each function flows into the next through this unified circulation, creating a harmonious journey through the home. This approach not only enhances spatial connectivity but also fosters a sense of movement, encouraging ease and fluidity in daily living.
Architectural Team & Project Details
• Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage contact | 076 869 0315
• Junior Architects | Sewwandi Nayanathara / Isuri Hettiarachchi
• Structural Engineer | Mr. Mahinda Rathnasiri
• Contractor | Mr. Lal Anura | Lal Construction
• Interior Architecture | Tharanga Hewage Chartered Architect
• Interior design and Contractor | Monara Creations
• Furniture | Singhe Furniture
• Window Fashion | Dilshan Drapers
• Wall Arts | Chakad Creation
• Land Extent | 25.01 perches
• Total Floor Area | 5059 sqft
• Ground Floor | 2802 sqft
• First Floor | 1878 sqft
• Roof Slab & Terraces | 379 sqft
• Photography | Ganidu Balasuriya photography
• Videography | Neyomal Rangeeth
Key Features of the Residence
Exterior and Car Porch:
The home’s exterior is marked by a sleek, modern design that complements its surroundings. A two-vehicle car porch provides ample space and easy access, while maintaining an elegant, minimalistic aesthetic.
Main Circulation:
The hallmark of this design is its single-spine circulation, which connects all key areas of the home. This circulation serves as the backbone of the house, facilitating smooth transitions between private and social spaces. The careful placement of rooms ensures that the flow is intuitive and unobtrusive, allowing each space to remain distinct while still being interconnected.
Interior Layout:
• Bedrooms: The home features five generously sized bedrooms, each designed to offer privacy and comfort. Some bedrooms include private terraces, providing residents with an intimate outdoor space.
• Family & Guest Areas: The expansive family living room is a central gathering space, complemented by a mini pantry for convenience. A dedicated guest living and dining area ensures that visitors enjoy a separate, comfortable space.
• Work & Study: A tranquil study room offers a quiet area for focus and reflection, while a flexible meeting room is perfect for professional engagements or personal gatherings.
• Private Spaces: In addition to the main living areas, the home includes a maid’s room, a laundry room, and four well-appointed bathrooms, including a powder room for guests.
• Storage & Utility: Thoughtful planning includes a generator room and ample storage space to meet the needs of modern living.
Design Considerations
A primary focus of the design is to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the home. The strategic placement of windows, terraces, and open spaces ensures that every room benefits from an abundance of daylight and fresh air, creating an airy and welcoming environment.
Sustainability also plays a key role in this design. Eco-friendly materials are incorporated to ensure energy efficiency, while landscaping is carefully integrated to maintain harmony between the indoors and the surrounding environment. These design elements allow the home to feel like a serene retreat amidst the urban landscape of Gampaha.
Conclusion
The “Pass By Spaces” design concept not only elevates the architectural experience but also fosters a sense of connection and tranquility for the residents of this urban family retreat. With a seamless flow between spaces, thoughtful use of materials, and an emphasis on sustainability, this home exemplifies a modern approach to residential design that prioritizes both style and functionality. For prospective homeowners looking to create a space that embodies both beauty and practicality, this project serves as a testament to what can be achieved through innovative design and meticulous attention to detail.
Principal Architect | Archt. Tharanga Hewage
contact | 076 869 0315
Website | Design portfolio
https://www.tharangahewage.com/
https://www.behance.net/tharangaon71a4
Facebook Page | Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/Archt.tharangahewage
https://www.instagram.com/architect_tharanga_hewage/
YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZLpclw5H62sOfvBz94XFOA
Linkedin
http://www.linkedin.com/.../archt-tharanga-hewage-aia-sl...
Copyright © 2025 | Archt. Tharanga Sandaruwan Hewage, B.Arch. (Hons), AIA(SL). All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Located on a marsh in the upper reaches of the Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, the existing house was well-sited and well-built, but the design failed to exploit the views and more importantly was a confused combination of contemporary and traditional elements. The new homeowners, a successful businesswoman and an accomplished artist and photographer, were interested in creating a fully-contemporary environment to open up space, connect indoors with outdoors, display artwork and showcase the husband’s distinctive photographs.
One glaring deficiency was the curb appeal and approach sequence: the grade sloped down and the path to the house followed, but this led to an uncomfortable dip and abrupt rise to the front door. By creating a virtual “moat,” occupied by a grid of raised-bed grasses contained in aluminum-clad boxes, and spanning the moat with an ipe bridge, the approach becomes level and engaging. The façade of the existing house was blank and bland, and with no cover. Adding a deep overhang with a wide porch creates a welcoming, covered condition, accentuated by a 6’ wide pivoting front door that feels more like a moving piece of wall.
Another deficiency was the connection to the outdoors. By adding glass to the front and back of the house, and removing interior walls selectively, the house takes on a diaphanous quality that allows one to see through to the marsh beyond, even when in the driveway. The raised-bed grasses act as abstract, geometric versions of the marsh beyond. A large, pyramidal skylight establishes a spatial hierarchy around which the rooms revolve.
The house featured several tray-ceilinged spaces – living room, kitchen, and master bedroom – that were poorly-proportioned and with panels at the top that resembled inset flat panel doors. The solution was to use a different strategy for each: the bedroom turns the ceiling into an eggshell through the use of a creative trim detail; the living room has an oversized sculptural, backlit lighting element; and the kitchen has a collage of painted rectangular forms that support or include lighting pieces.
A palette of concrete, blackened steel, stainless steel and colors carefully chosen by homeowner and architect create an interior and exterior environment punctuated by moments that are as artistic as the featured works in the black-ceilinged gallery.

Located on a marsh in the upper reaches of the Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, the existing house was well-sited and well-built, but the design failed to exploit the views and more importantly was a confused combination of contemporary and traditional elements. The new homeowners, a successful businesswoman and an accomplished artist and photographer, were interested in creating a fully-contemporary environment to open up space, connect indoors with outdoors, display artwork and showcase the husband’s distinctive photographs.
One glaring deficiency was the curb appeal and approach sequence: the grade sloped down and the path to the house followed, but this led to an uncomfortable dip and abrupt rise to the front door. By creating a virtual “moat,” occupied by a grid of raised-bed grasses contained in aluminum-clad boxes, and spanning the moat with an ipe bridge, the approach becomes level and engaging. The façade of the existing house was blank and bland, and with no cover. Adding a deep overhang with a wide porch creates a welcoming, covered condition, accentuated by a 6’ wide pivoting front door that feels more like a moving piece of wall.
Another deficiency was the connection to the outdoors. By adding glass to the front and back of the house, and removing interior walls selectively, the house takes on a diaphanous quality that allows one to see through to the marsh beyond, even when in the driveway. The raised-bed grasses act as abstract, geometric versions of the marsh beyond. A large, pyramidal skylight establishes a spatial hierarchy around which the rooms revolve.
The house featured several tray-ceilinged spaces – living room, kitchen, and master bedroom – that were poorly-proportioned and with panels at the top that resembled inset flat panel doors. The solution was to use a different strategy for each: the bedroom turns the ceiling into an eggshell through the use of a creative trim detail; the living room has an oversized sculptural, backlit lighting element; and the kitchen has a collage of painted rectangular forms that support or include lighting pieces.
A palette of concrete, blackened steel, stainless steel and colors carefully chosen by homeowner and architect create an interior and exterior environment punctuated by moments that are as artistic as the featured works in the black-ceilinged gallery.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Laundry Room Cabinets bright white and beautiful. This large laundry room will be refreshing to walk into for years to come. With a large window adding additional bright light into the room. In addition, hexagon tile lines the floor adding dimension to the room. Perimeter is lined with white painted maple cabinets and Fantasy River marble countertops. A fun retro sink and hardware adds functionality to the laundry room. There is no lack of storage in this laundry room. Furthermore, lining the top of the washer and dryer with marble tops add additional workspace for folding and managing the loads of laundry. Which will be a great help on this busy ranch. White Painted Maple Cabinets and Marble Countertops complete in Client Project Laundry Room New Construction ~ Thank you for sharing! Client Remarks on the BBB “Wonderful company. Easy to work with and best prices in town.” Laundry rooms can feel dark and depressing. When designing your laundry can be just as important as your kitchen and bath. Creating productivity can begin with the overall design elements. Simply creating a space that is bright and refreshing can be the difference in enjoyment and dread. Not only for yourself but for your family. Engagement begins in a space that is fun and exciting to be in. Begin by choosing colors that brighten up the laundry. In addition, to choosing cabinetry that provides adequate storage can make working in your laundry fun and rewarding. Adding floating shelves to support those needed quick access items within reach. With many flooring options available from tile to luxury vinyl tile can create warmth through colors or wood looks. In addition, to brighten the space with bright whites and accents. Finally, purchasing electric floor warming for those bare feet can make your toes happy and content. Creating a workspace for your laundry room that is functional and beautiful can shift the mind into enjoying tasks rather than dreading them. Find your locally owned Home Improvement Store, let one of our designers assist in choosing materials and design your laundry room. Find French Creek Designs, on MeWe or Facebook, and follow us! In addition, read more about our process and read regular updates on client projects and updated materials selections and choices at FCD News a reliable source of information and current trends.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Kandinsky pillow cover - In the flow- Star fragments and enigmatic hieroglyphs artfully stitched in the finest Kashmir wool chainstitch needlework. Cosmic colors like blue, lavender and silver complement earthier tones of terra cotta, harvest green and amber to recreate a design based on the work of influential Russian artist, Wassily Kandinsky.The exciting pattern evokes the thought of a ladder to the stars, a comet‚ s tail,or a star map. This cover could grace the cabin of your boat or the chair in your solarium and yet be equally as comfortable in your den. Durable and easy to clean, this toss pillow will catch the eye of every passerby.
Composition: 70% Wool, 30% Cotton
Size: 18' x 18' (45 cms x 45 cms)
Pillow Insert not Included (Only Cover is on Sale)
Hand embroidered in Village Cottage Units
Backing: Canvas (See the Last Picture)
A close-up view of this abstract pillow cover allows you to see the amazing chain-stitch embroidery work of master artisans who have practiced this art their entire lives.This abstract decorative pillow cover could grace the cabin of your boat or the chair in your solarium and yet be equally as comfortable in your den. The eye-popping color and pattern of this modern throw pillow are just what the designer ordered to create a fiery focal point in your decor. Perfect wherever you need a splash of color, this artwork pillow creation is as durable as it is beautiful. Easy to care for, this cushion cover could spark up an old throw pillow or grace a new pillow form.
Kandinsky conveyed profound spirituality and inner human emotion through a visual language of abstract forms and colors that transcended cultural and physical boundaries. He used interrelation between color and form to create an aesthetic experience that engaged the sight, sound, and emotions of the viewer. Kandinsky viewed music as the most transcendent form of non-objective art musicians could evoke images in listeners‚ minds merely with sounds.
He crafted spiritually rich paintings that alluded to sounds and emotions through sensations. Modern Artist Wassily Kandinsky used the form of concentric circles to portray the soul. Rendered here as chain stitch embroidery in wool, this cushion cover can create a new personality for any room in which you choose to use it.
The eye-popping color and pattern of this modern throw pillow are just what the designer ordered to create a fiery focal point in your decor. Perfect wherever you need a splash of color, this artwork pillow creation is as durable as it is beautiful. Easy to care for, this cushion cover could spark up an old throw pillow or grace a new pillow form.

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Welcome to a striking modern kitchen, a delightful interplay between the rich, natural beauty of slab walnut doors and the contemporary allure of cashmere gloss slab doors. This thoughtfully designed space embodies both warmth and luxury, creating an ambience that is stylish yet welcoming.
Immediately upon entering, one is drawn to the stunning walnut slab doors. Their beautifully organic grain patterns and deep, warm hues introduce a touch of nature into the space, providing an inherent homeliness. The broad, flat surfaces of the slabs accentuate the walnut's unique texture and coloration, creating an appealing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the kitchen's overall design.
Paired with the walnut's earthy tones, the cashmere gloss slab doors present a contemporary elegance. Their soft, neutral shade exudes a sense of serene luxury, akin to the fine texture of cashmere. The high-gloss finish reflects light beautifully, infusing the room with a bright, spacious feel. The slab design keeps the aesthetic clean and modern, subtly mirroring the simple geometry seen throughout the kitchen.
The interplay between the textured walnut and smooth cashmere gloss creates a captivating visual dialogue. The natural warmth and richness of the walnut balance the chic, contemporary vibe of the cashmere gloss, achieving a harmonious blend of styles. The result is a kitchen that feels both cozy and sophisticated, traditional yet cutting-edge.
In this stylish space, integrated state-of-the-art appliances blend seamlessly into the design, their modern lines enhancing the room's minimalist aesthetic. Clever storage solutions within the slab doors ensure the kitchen remains uncluttered, reinforcing its sleek, streamlined look.
This kitchen, with its fusion of slab walnut and cashmere gloss doors, offers an engaging mix of warmth and modernity. Every element of its design, from the choice of materials to the color palette, creates a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't compromise on style or functionality. It's a room that invites you to relax, cook, dine, and celebrate the beauty of contemporary kitchen design.

There are not many things better than a room full of your favourite people. As you gather you smell dinner cooking in the kitchen and music playing in the background, as joyful conversation and laughter fill the room. I feel so grateful that we are inching our way back to these days. How about you?
The project I’m sharing with you today has beautiful moments like these at its heart. Spaces that invite people in, foster connection, and make everyday living so simple that it’s impossible not to enjoy...
Meet our Delightful Clients:
The family behind this 1950s North Vancouver home transformation enjoy entertaining friends just as much as cosying up to watch a movie together. A professional couple (I'll call them Jon and Anna) with two elementary school-aged sons, Anna and Jon approached us with the task of furnishing the main floor living spaces and the basement of their family home.
Anna is a busy lawyer who is now working almost full time from home, and Jon works in the film industry. With full careers, two active boys, and a love of gathering, they craved a home that could support their everyday lifestyle.
Design and Lifestyle Goals:
Our central goal for this project was simple: to uncover the hidden potential in their home and create a family-friendly space that functioned well and flowed seamlessly.
On the main floor, our clients tasked us with creating an area for the family to relax and entertain, along with crafting a work and play space for the boys. They also dreamed of a more functional and bright basement, which they envisioned as a dual purpose family room and home office for Anna.
Reveal: Comfortable and Welcoming Entryway & Living Room:
Imagine you are coming home, and you walk through a bright, sunny front door like this one. You are met by this entryway of calming earth and sea tones, paired with warm, natural wood flooring. You feel instantly welcomed and eager to venture further inside... The same is now true for our clients!
The simple details in their entryway are thoughtfully arranged with clean lines and colourful art as the focal point, achieving a timeless and friendly aesthetic. Dried wheat brings movement into the space and plays up the beauty of nature, while the vibrant yet warm colours and textures evoke feelings of comfort and homecoming.
The entry flows seamlessly into this connected living area, which is adorned with ample seating strategically arranged to host and accommodate joyful conversations. With the fireplace and wood mantel as the focal point, these natural elements and hues warm up the room to make it feel beautifully lived-in (not like an untouchable museum).
Another colourful work of art graces the space above Jon’s and Anna’s sofa, and we used decorative pillows and a throw blanket to tempt those colours into the rest of the room. A simply styled coffee table keeps the space feeling open and engaged. Reading material, anyone?
Just beyond this living area, you get a glimpse of the second space our clients requested on their main floor...
A Collected Space for Children to Work + Play:
When Jon and Anna realised that their formal dining area wasn’t being used to its full potential, they imagined creating a work and play space for their boys instead. We came up with a plan to create a shared desk area with plentiful storage.
This timeless natural wood desk was the perfect way to maximise surface area and give the boys plenty of space to do homework during the school year, or spend time crafting or building LEGOs during the summers. The drawers provide storage for all the wonderful items that fuel their productivity or creativity. Or both.
I also love how the white floating shelves display a collection of nostalgic toys, providing just the right amount of childhood endearment to this sophisticated and functional space. This workspace now has endless possibilities for the boys, and it helps Jon and Anna keep their minds and spaces clear, too. Which brings us to...
Basement Family Room & Home Office:
In general, we knew we had to maximise surface area in this ‘50s home, and this was especially true for our clients’ basement. I’m happy to say that we designed an effortlessly comfortable space that focuses on family and makes it simple to settle in and work… or leave the workday behind.
Welcome to this dual-function office and family room. Toward the back of the room, we strategically positioned Anna’s wraparound desk facing out into the room and gave her a wallpaper-and-art backdrop for stunning Zoom calls (she has already received glowing compliments). There is plenty of storage for easy organization including a space to store the family’s shared printer near the door… so they don’t have to interrupt “Mom” to get to it.
Anna also wanted the freedom to be able to relax in this space with her family and turn her back on the work day — quite literally! The sofa is perfectly positioned backing onto the desk allowing her to do just that.
We relocated an existing mustard yellow chair and used pops of the same colour to integrate it into the overall scheme. The wood armrests on this modular sectional provide surfaces for snacks and drinks where there was no room for an end table. The walnut finish carries the theme of natural comfort from the upstairs spaces down into the family room.
The view from the sectional is less business and more pleasure, featuring cosy seating and throw pillows in cheerful colours and patterns.
The highlight of this space? A wallpapered accent wall where we were able to achieve the high-end feel of custom built-in shelving with a simple IKEA hack. The shelves and cabinetry around the television offer plenty of much needed storage space to house family games and movies at a budget price point.
This fun room is the perfect balance of work and play, accommodating and supporting our clients’ daily family adventures.
What Our Clients Had to Say...
Our clients could not be happier with their warm yet functional new rooms. With thoughtful consideration and a plan of action, we were able to transform two areas of their home into spaces that function well and feel good. In fact, they had this to say:
“Lori and her team were everything we were looking for: great listeners, wonderfully creative and highly professional. We couldn't be happier with our interior makeover.” — Clients
That is why we do what we do. If you're ready to start your redesign project, we would love to help. Reach out to us here, and let's get to know more about each other.

Located on a marsh in the upper reaches of the Lieutenant River in Old Lyme, the existing house was well-sited and well-built, but the design failed to exploit the views and more importantly was a confused combination of contemporary and traditional elements. The new homeowners, a successful businesswoman and an accomplished artist and photographer, were interested in creating a fully-contemporary environment to open up space, connect indoors with outdoors, display artwork and showcase the husband’s distinctive photographs.
One glaring deficiency was the curb appeal and approach sequence: the grade sloped down and the path to the house followed, but this led to an uncomfortable dip and abrupt rise to the front door. By creating a virtual “moat,” occupied by a grid of raised-bed grasses contained in aluminum-clad boxes, and spanning the moat with an ipe bridge, the approach becomes level and engaging. The façade of the existing house was blank and bland, and with no cover. Adding a deep overhang with a wide porch creates a welcoming, covered condition, accentuated by a 6’ wide pivoting front door that feels more like a moving piece of wall.
Another deficiency was the connection to the outdoors. By adding glass to the front and back of the house, and removing interior walls selectively, the house takes on a diaphanous quality that allows one to see through to the marsh beyond, even when in the driveway. The raised-bed grasses act as abstract, geometric versions of the marsh beyond. A large, pyramidal skylight establishes a spatial hierarchy around which the rooms revolve.
The house featured several tray-ceilinged spaces – living room, kitchen, and master bedroom – that were poorly-proportioned and with panels at the top that resembled inset flat panel doors. The solution was to use a different strategy for each: the bedroom turns the ceiling into an eggshell through the use of a creative trim detail; the living room has an oversized sculptural, backlit lighting element; and the kitchen has a collage of painted rectangular forms that support or include lighting pieces.
A palette of concrete, blackened steel, stainless steel and colors carefully chosen by homeowner and architect create an interior and exterior environment punctuated by moments that are as artistic as the featured works in the black-ceilinged gallery.
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