Inspired by luxury fitness facilities, this home gym is designed for stylish multifunctional use. A slatted wood wall provided a zen-like ambiance, floor to ceiling mirrors created visual openness, and strong graphic architectural details, in a tonal materials palette, enhanced the overall space. A linear lighting plan, custom storage feature, and mylar-backed wallpapers gave dimension and personality. Whether power lifting, meditative yoga, or relaxing in the glass-boxed sauna, this home gym is sure to inspire.

Designed to be a legacy and space where great family memories could be created, OBMI completed the master planning, landscape, interior design, and architecture of the holistic residential Longtail House project. A modern home wrapped in the classic Bermudian style, it’s comprised of 4 bedrooms with in-suite bathrooms including a master suite and a guest apartment. A Great Room combines all family social activity in one space, with an incorporated living room, dining room, and kitchen. Close by is the Library-Music Room, Media Room, Home Office, back of house kitchen support and laundry. Below the Great Room are the Game Room and the wine cellar, which can be observed from above through a glass floor. There is a large garage for vehicles and various sporting items. At the front of the house, overlooking the ocean is the infinity pool, spa, and gardens with endemic shoreline plants. The previous house on the property site was carefully disassembled and recycled as exemplified by the existing cedar wood floors, which were repurposed as entrance ceilings. Even garden plants were recycled where possible. The biggest challenge was during excavation. With a lot of hard rock present, it took several weeks to cut through. Once the foundation level was achieved, all work went smoothly. The house has a strong emphasis on respecting and nurturing the environment, with igloo nests situated at the edge of the cliffs for Longtail seabirds to repose. The layout was set so as to maximize the best sun orientation for the solar panels and for natural cooling from the offshore breezes to occur.

This home blends light, privacy, and views. Designed by The UP Studio, it features a smart, people-first layout and amazing attention to detail. The vision at conception was to create a home with an emphasis on privacy, an abundance of light, building strong connections with the outdoors, and accessing views of the water. "We chose the Marvin Modern windows and doors product line on this project specifically because of the clean and narrow sightlines and Modern’s ability to create huge expanses of glass," Architect John Patrick Winberry says. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Modern Multi-Slide Door Marvin Modern Casement Window Marvin Modern Awning Window Marvin Modern Direct Glaze Window Marvin Ultimate Inswing French Door Architecture Firm: The UP Studio Photography: Alan Tansey

The owners of this property had been away from the Bay Area for many years, and looked forward to returning to an elegant mid-century modern house. The one they bought was anything but that. Faced with a “remuddled” kitchen from one decade, a haphazard bedroom / family room addition from another, and an otherwise disjointed and generally run-down mid-century modern house, the owners asked Klopf Architecture and Envision Landscape Studio to re-imagine this house and property as a unified, flowing, sophisticated, warm, modern indoor / outdoor living space for a family of five. Opening up the spaces internally and from inside to out was the first order of business. The formerly disjointed eat-in kitchen with 7 foot high ceilings were opened up to the living room, re-oriented, and replaced with a spacious cook's kitchen complete with a row of skylights bringing light into the space. Adjacent the living room wall was completely opened up with La Cantina folding door system, connecting the interior living space to a new wood deck that acts as a continuation of the wood floor. People can flow from kitchen to the living / dining room and the deck seamlessly, making the main entertainment space feel at once unified and complete, and at the same time open and limitless. Klopf opened up the bedroom with a large sliding panel, and turned what was once a large walk-in closet into an office area, again with a large sliding panel. The master bathroom has high windows all along one wall to bring in light, and a large wet room area for the shower and tub. The dark, solid roof structure over the patio was replaced with an open trellis that allows plenty of light, brightening the new deck area as well as the interior of the house. All the materials of the house were replaced, apart from the framing and the ceiling boards. This allowed Klopf to unify the materials from space to space, running the same wood flooring throughout, using the same paint colors, and generally creating a consistent look from room to room. Located in Lafayette, CA this remodeled single-family house is 3,363 square foot, 4 bedroom, and 3.5 bathroom. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Jackie Detamore, and Jeffrey Prose Landscape Design: Envision Landscape Studio Structural Engineer: Brian Dotson Consulting Engineers Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography ©2015 Mariko Reed Staging: The Design Shop Location: Lafayette, CA Year completed: 2014

This home blends light, privacy, and views. Designed by The UP Studio, it features a smart, people-first layout and amazing attention to detail. The vision at conception was to create a home with an emphasis on privacy, an abundance of light, building strong connections with the outdoors, and accessing views of the water. "We chose the Marvin Modern windows and doors product line on this project specifically because of the clean and narrow sightlines and Modern’s ability to create huge expanses of glass," Architect John Patrick Winberry says. MARVIN PRODUCTS USED: Marvin Modern Multi-Slide Door Marvin Modern Casement Window Marvin Modern Awning Window Marvin Modern Direct Glaze Window Marvin Ultimate Inswing French Door Architecture Firm: The UP Studio Photography: Alan Tansey

The goal of this project was to expand and create a second floor addition that is sympathetic to the original Mid Century Ranch Architecture and sensitive the the existing traditional buildings in the neighborhood. This remodel of a low slung U-shaped ranch transforms from front to back. One arm of the ‘U’ houses a stacked sleeping wing, and the other houses the communal program; both arms embrace a courtyard in the rear. The wings are connected by the more formal program of dining, living and art gallery. The varied material composition emphasizes the horizontal layering of space, while the large expanse of glass at the front and back create a strong connection between inside and out. The interplay between material softness and bold spatial form are truly a modern approach. ©serrao design/architecture, unless otherwise noted

An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

ASID award winning kitchen with cypress wood cabinetry with carved in handles creating sculptural works of art where form fits function. The kitchen stretches toward floor-to-ceiling black-framed windows with broad marina views. Dark wood cabinetry and a long central island create a strong linear layout, softened by pale plank flooring and a wood-lined ceiling recess. Turquoise glass pendants bring coastal color above the island, while integrated appliances and generous glazing keep the room streamlined. The kitchen combines working space, counter seating and panoramic daylight in an elegant indoor-outdoor setting.

Pianca Furniture draws upon traditional local craft, channelling over 500 years of carpentry along the banks of the Pianca stream. Building on its strong history, Pianca combines experience and innovation to bring the culture of modern design to the world. Plan your space with these modular panels made of wood veneer, lacquered or Upholstered and covered by fabric or leather. They perfectly combine to platorm, bedside Tables, furniture and shelves, by creating geometric designs or much more irregular Fantasies, thanks to the chance to manage their width every ten centimeters. To personalize With pleasure, where and when you need it.

Arches of Rain - designed by Mike Farley. To create a focal point to blend with the Spanish style home but still leaving the view open to the pasture behind was a challenge. Centered on the backyard entrance from the home the golden stucco arches with rainfalls created the solution. The yard slope created multiple opportunities. Steps transition the sight line down to a flush vanishing edge spa. A Bridge of Travertine allows access over the pool to the spa. The spa tile blends with the water color. Symmetrical curves flank the spa to allow transition around the cabana and the slide. Low ground cover softens the upper terrace and adds color. A finger ledge of Travertine or benches provide many resting places around the pool. The precast trim on the arches matches the detail on the home as well as the stucco Finnish and color. The Scabos Travertine field is accented with a square of glass used fromthe spa and provides great backdrop for the Lions Heads. Each of the rain falls are individually controlled to create sound from gentle rain to a strong shower. This space creates a space of tranquility and peace that is enjoyed everyday.

An historic Spanish Colonial residence built in 1925 being redesigned and furnished for a modern-day Southern California family was the challenge. The interiors of the main house needed the backgrounds set and then a timeless collection created for its furnishings. Lifestyle was always a consideration as well as the interiors relating to the strong architecture of the residence. Natural colors such as terra cotta, tans, blues, greens, old red and soft vintage shades were incorporated throughout. Our goal was to maintain the historic character of the residence combining design elements and materials considered classic in Southern California Spanish Colonial architecture. Natural fiber textiles, leathers and woven linens were the predominated upholstery choices. A 7000 square foot basement was added and furnished to provide a gym, Star Wars theater, game areas, spa area and a simulator for indoor golf and other sports. Antiques were selected throughout the world, fine art from major galleries, custom reproductions fabricated in the old-world style. Collectible carpets were selected for the reclaimed hardwood flooring in all the areas. An estancia and garden over the basement were created and furnished with old world designs and materials as reclaimed woods, terra cotta and French limestone flooring.

What Makes an Ocean Wave, Wave? The quintessential New England ocean-front cottage poised for perfection, how could you possibly improve? What was already an amazing property on the shore in Ipswich, MA, gave way to a ‘face lift’. The ocean facing roofline with steep pitch created a blank canvas, our favorite! Constructing an eyebrow shaped dormer transformed the second floor by ‘opening the home’s eyes’, adding a master bedroom suite and reading nook…to die for. Ocean views and natural light were maximized by the strong use of glass and transparent finishes. The dramatic roofline resembles an ocean wave, befitting of the home’s coastal cottage location and style. Photo by Eric Roth

The historic Casa Blanca development in Paradise Valley is home to this bustling Moroccan-inspired home adjacent to an inspiring community cacti garden. The garden spaces utilize mountain views while, simultaneously, the expanded sculptural walls provide privacy and security from the development’s amenities. Strong, clean, earthy elements are key to the overall design parameters, creating a contemporary and balanced garden. A simple palette of unusual succulents and jasmine vines grow up from the raw rusted earth. The layered steel fireplace (also Moroccan-inspired) anchors the space from many vantage points, acting as a welcoming beacon from the interior.

In the course of our design work, we completely re-worked the kitchen layout, designed new cabinetry for the kitchen, bathrooms, and living areas. The new great room layout provides a focal point in the fireplace and creates additional seating without moving walls. On the upper floor, we significantly remodeled all the bathrooms. The color palette was simplified and calmed by using a cool palette of grays, blues, and natural textures. Our aesthetic goal for the project was to assemble a warm, casual, family-friendly palette of materials; linen, leather, natural wood and stone, cozy rugs, and vintage textiles. The reclaimed beam as a mantle and subtle grey walls create a strong graphic element which is balanced and echoed by more delicate textile patterns.

The extreme change in grade across a shallow lot presented challenges for the design of this contemporary home. The solution was found in an unconventional way, by locating the front door on the lower level of the home. This would normally be a problem, but here the floating staircase and interconnected floor levels allow people on main floor to see who is coming to the front door below. The roof shape is a modern approach to the mansard roof, in order to moderate the height and mass of the four-storey elevation. The exterior material palette of synthetic stone, cement panel, and wood creates contrast, and their congenial composition strongly defines the south facade.

The great room area, which includes an open living space, dining area and kitchen theatre, stands as the “heart” of the home. The vast vaulted ceiling with exposed, reclaimed wood beams and eye-catching globe chandelier frame large windows that direct the eyes to the veranda and lake outside. Inside, the designers wished to create a very strong relationship between the interior space and outside; hence all rooms have a visual connection to the lake. Generous plank wood floors with a crisp, weathered look give the sense of a saltwater-worn deck. Complemented by contemporary furnishings and fixtures, and a cool, fresh color palette, the abode feels like a modern, sophisticated beach house. Chandelier by Restoration Hardware.

Popular Scandinavian-style interiors blog 'These Four Walls' has collaborated with Kährs for a scandi-inspired, soft and minimalist living room makeover. Kährs worked with founder Abi Dare to find the perfect hard wearing and stylish floor to work alongside minimalist decor. Kährs' ultra matt 'Oak Sky' engineered wood floor design was the perfect fit. "I was keen on the idea of pale Nordic oak and ordered all sorts of samples, but none seemed quite right – until a package arrived from Swedish brand Kährs, that is. As soon as I took a peek at ‘Oak Sky’ ultra matt lacquered boards I knew they were the right choice – light but not overly so, with a balance of ashen and warmer tones and a beautiful grain. It creates the light, Scandinavian vibe that I love, but it doesn’t look out of place in our Victorian house; it also works brilliantly with the grey walls. I also love the matte finish, which is very hard wearing but has none of the shininess normally associated with lacquer" says Abi. Oak Sky is the lightest oak design from the Kährs Lux collection of one-strip ultra matt lacquer floors. The semi-transparent white stain and light and dark contrasts in the wood makes the floor ideal for a scandi-chic inspired interior. The innovative surface treatment is non-reflective; enhancing the colour of the floor while giving it a silky, yet strong shield against wear and tear. Kährs' Lux collection won 'Best Flooring' at the House Beautiful Awards 2017. Kährs have collaborated with These Four Walls and feature in two blog posts; My soft, minimalist living room makeover reveal and How to choose wooden flooring. All photography by Abi Dare, Founder of These Four Walls

MONTECITO, CA / SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL The Casa de Casey takes its place among the graceful and genteel tradition of Santa Barbara architecture. Located in a secreted area of Montecito, the house is tucked amidst a wooded glen along a riparian creek bed. Carefully sited at the top of a rolling green, the building provides a strong form in the natural landscape. With its reference to historical precedent, the house is both undeniably familiar and tangibly rich. Site sensitivity and pure spatial relationships combine in new ways, showing that what’s old can be new again. An entry courtyard concealed behind a pair of wooden doors of Moorish design begins the entry sequence. The courtyard, wrapped around an existing mature oak tree, creates an outdoor room, which establishes an interplay between interior and exterior spaces, a theme that recurs throughout the house. An exercise in scale and proportion, the 5,000-square-foot residence is imbued with classic detail and richness found in the Spanish Colonial architecture characteristic of George Washington Smith and others. Interior spaces are created through pure and varied geometric volumes, and are elaborated by opened beamed ceilings, groin vaults and Moorish arches.

The original kitchen in this condominium was renovated arising from the need to replace Kitec plumbing. The work triangle remained generally the same, but numerous changes were made to improve the kitchen’s functionality, aesthetics, and lighting. Automation was also introduced. The goal was to design and build a modern contemporary functional kitchen with inspiring colours accented with textured wood features. The functionality was improved with the addition of an under counter microwave, which freed up countertop space. Additional and improved storage was also created by incorporating under cabinet drawers throughout the kitchen, a bar area with open glass shelving above, and open shelving to the right of the seating area. Upper cabinet storage was as well increased with storage above the fridge. Numerous lighting improvements were made including the addition of potlights. This was done by dropping the ceiling in the kitchen, which also created a visual division with the dining area. Automation was introduced as well into the space with HUE under cabinet lighting, and a touch faucet. The under cabinet lights are controlled by the Phillips Hue App that programs routines, scenes, and other settings. The kitchen features painted Shaker cabinets accented by textured wood shelving. The countertop surfaces are quartz with waterfalls on both sides of the island, which is a focal point. Shapes are also strongly identified in the design with the use of triangular tiles in the backsplash along with rectangular upper cabinets, and appliance doors and drawers. The kitchen is made most unique though with the uplifting use of colour in the cabinets that make this a bright and cheerful space. Aristea Photography