Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard stone patio remodel in San Francisco with a fire pit and no cover

Inspiration for a large mediterranean full sun courtyard stone garden path in San Francisco.

Jim Brady Architectural Photography
Entryway - cottage entryway idea in San Diego

Huge minimalist white three-story gable roof photo in DC Metro

When a world class sailing champion approached us to design a Newport home for his family, with lodging for his sailing crew, we set out to create a clean, light-filled modern home that would integrate with the natural surroundings of the waterfront property, and respect the character of the historic district. Our approach was to make the marine landscape an integral feature throughout the home. One hundred eighty degree views of the ocean from the top floors are the result of the pinwheel massing. The home is designed as an extension of the curvilinear approach to the property through the woods and reflects the gentle undulating waterline of the adjacent saltwater marsh. Floodplain regulations dictated that the primary occupied spaces be located significantly above grade; accordingly, we designed the first and second floors on a stone “plinth” above a walk-out basement with ample storage for sailing equipment. The curved stone base slopes to grade and houses the shallow entry stair, while the same stone clads the interior’s vertical core to the roof, along which the wood, glass and stainless steel stair ascends to the upper level. One critical programmatic requirement was enough sleeping space for the sailing crew, and informal party spaces for the end of race-day gatherings. The private master suite is situated on one side of the public central volume, giving the homeowners views of approaching visitors. A “bedroom bar,” designed to accommodate a full house of guests, emerges from the other side of the central volume, and serves as a backdrop for the infinity pool and the cove beyond. Also essential to the design process was ecological sensitivity and stewardship. The wetlands of the adjacent saltwater marsh were designed to be restored; an extensive geo-thermal heating and cooling system was implemented; low carbon footprint materials and permeable surfaces were used where possible. Native and non-invasive plant species were utilized in the landscape. The abundance of windows and glass railings maximize views of the landscape, and, in deference to the adjacent bird sanctuary, bird-friendly glazing was used throughout. Photo: Michael Moran/OTTO Photography

Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC
Design ideas for a small traditional full sun and drought-tolerant front yard stone and wood fence garden path in Boston for summer.

Large arts and crafts backyard deck photo in Seattle with a roof extension

Greg Premru
Beach style dark wood floor open concept kitchen photo in Boston with glass-front cabinets, white cabinets, a farmhouse sink, wood countertops, stainless steel appliances and no island

Allison Cartwright
Example of a trendy white two-story gable roof design in Austin

Check out this new house proposed in Caledon. This is currently in the building permit stage, starting construction in the spring. This house is 4,159 sq.ft., includes a 2 storey foyer and great room, boardwalk, curved stair case, 4 bedrooms and a large covered deck with outdoor fireplace.

Living room - traditional formal living room idea in Philadelphia with a standard fireplace

Pool - contemporary concrete and round pool idea in Los Angeles

Previously renovated with a two-story addition in the 80’s, the home’s square footage had been increased, but the current homeowners struggled to integrate the old with the new. An oversized fireplace and awkward jogged walls added to the challenges on the main floor, along with dated finishes. While on the second floor, a poorly configured layout was not functional for this expanding family. From the front entrance, we can see the fireplace was removed between the living room and dining rooms, creating greater sight lines and allowing for more traditional archways between rooms. At the back of the home, we created a new mudroom area, and updated the kitchen with custom two-tone millwork, countertops and finishes. These main floor changes work together to create a home more reflective of the homeowners’ tastes. On the second floor, the master suite was relocated and now features a beautiful custom ensuite, walk-in closet and convenient adjacency to the new laundry room. Gordon King Photography

Check out this new house proposed in Caledon. This is currently in the building permit stage, starting construction in the spring. This house is 4,159 sq.ft., includes a 2 storey foyer and great room, boardwalk, curved stair case, 4 bedrooms and a large covered deck with outdoor fireplace.

Example of a huge classic formal and open concept medium tone wood floor living room design in Charlotte with beige walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv

An open house lot is like a blank canvas. When Mathew first visited the wooded lot where this home would ultimately be built, the landscape spoke to him clearly. Standing with the homeowner, it took Mathew only twenty minutes to produce an initial color sketch that captured his vision - a long, circular driveway and a home with many gables set at a picturesque angle that complemented the contours of the lot perfectly. The interior was designed using a modern mix of architectural styles – a dash of craftsman combined with some colonial elements – to create a sophisticated yet truly comfortable home that would never look or feel ostentatious. Features include a bright, open study off the entry. This office space is flanked on two sides by walls of expansive windows and provides a view out to the driveway and the woods beyond. There is also a contemporary, two-story great room with a see-through fireplace. This space is the heart of the home and provides a gracious transition, through two sets of double French doors, to a four-season porch located in the landscape of the rear yard. This home offers the best in modern amenities and design sensibilities while still maintaining an approachable sense of warmth and ease. Photo by Eric Roth

Brady Architectural Photography
Patio - large contemporary backyard stone patio idea in San Diego with a fire pit and no cover

This modern lake house is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The residence overlooks a mountain lake with expansive mountain views beyond. The design ties the home to its surroundings and enhances the ability to experience both home and nature together. The entry level serves as the primary living space and is situated into three groupings; the Great Room, the Guest Suite and the Master Suite. A glass connector links the Master Suite, providing privacy and the opportunity for terrace and garden areas. Won a 2013 AIANC Design Award. Featured in the Austrian magazine, More Than Design. Featured in Carolina Home and Garden, Summer 2015.

Example of a cottage gray two-story vinyl gable roof design in Wilmington with a metal roof