Our clients, a vibrant young family with two energetic kids and a playful dog, were feeling the constraints of their outdated, cramped house. The Main Floor was divided by walls, fragmenting the Kitchen, Dining Room, and living areas, making family time and entertaining a bit of a struggle. The Kitchen was small and dim, lacking counter space and storage. The kids' study/play table was squeezed into a tight corner, emphasizing the lack of space. The dark hardwood floors were scratched and worn, and the foyer felt cramped and uninviting. The powder room was also The idea of a major renovation brought both excitement and a bit of anxiety. The couple was unsure about design decisions and worried about the challenges of dealing with structural columns and beams. Collaborating with Sosna designer Camila, the family embarked on a journey to transform their outdated house into a bright, functional home. To open up the space, walls were removed, creating a seamless flow between the foyer, living room, dining room, and kitchen. The kitchen was relocated and expanded to include generous counter space and a large island, providing the ideal spot for the kids to help prepare meals—a task they’ve come to enjoy since the renovation—or work on their homework. Additionally, the addition of a cozy window bench offers extra seating for hanging out with the family. It’s also the perfect place to curl up with a good book. The once dark and gloomy powder room was completely refreshed with new fixtures, a white oak vanity, and beautiful floor tiles, which significantly brightened it up. Additionally, the dark hardwood floors were replaced with a lighter, more modern option, brightening the entire main floor. The renovation wasn't without its hiccups. A mix-up with the hardwood flooring led to a last-minute scramble for a replacement. But in the end, the family fell in love with the new flooring, proving that sometimes unexpected changes can lead to even better outcomes. The renovation completely transformed the home. What was once a cramped and segmented main floor is now a bright, open space perfectly suited to the family's lifestyle. The new kitchen island became the heart of the home, providing a place for the kids to do homework while their parents cooked, fostering a sense of togetherness. The open layout also made hosting gatherings effortless. Throughout the renovation, the kids and their dog brought a playful energy to the construction site, forming a special bond with the crew. Despite the challenges of living through a renovation, the family managed to maintain a sense of normalcy, working from home when possible and appreciating the crew's efforts to keep things tidy. What started as a simple update turned into a full-scale transformation that reflects the family’s needs and personal style. Their willingness to embrace bold design choices, such as blush pink tiles and bright floral patterns, adds a unique touch to the space. And that hardwood flooring mix-up? It turned out to be a happy accident, resulting in a floor they love even more. In the end, this renovation was more than just a home makeover; it was about creating a space that truly feels like home, nurturing family connections, and bringing joy to everyday life.

Perched in the rolling landscape of Alta, Wyoming, this legacy home was thoughtfully designed to belong to the land, not dominate it. Nestled into the hillside with sweeping views of the elk migration path and the Teton Range, every decision was made with future generations in mind. Led by Julie Cavanaugh, this project reflects her passion for designing legacy homes...places that honor family history, respect the land, and are built to be passed down for generations. With roots on this property dating back to the late 1800s, the homeowners envisioned a home that would tell their family’s story well into the future. As featured in the latest edition of Mountain Living Magazine, this home is more than a retreat, it’s a promise to the past and a gift to generations to come. With 70 acres of land, this timber framed home totals 5,752 sf. - 4 bed, 4.5 bath

This is a perfect example of how we work, and why our clients choose to work with us once they meet us. Kitchen remodel is not only about buying Cabinets. It’s much, much more than that. It’s finding the right people who can think on the fly/outside the box. Who can design/re-design and execute the details even when they have to make delicate and complicated decisions in the field to help keep the project on time. White solid Wood Cabinets, double crown moldings, Drawer microwave, pot filler, and large 30” undermount stainless steel sink with a tall faucet to anchor it. Bold backsplash tiles, elegant 36” professional hood, light rail moldings, pull out Drawers and organizers inside of the cabinets, LED lighting on dimmer switches all combined with new matching wood flooring made this kitchen stand out in this space. Cabinets, Countertop and design were provided by RAJ team, along with other collaborative team work between our recommended General Contractor and our client. The entire team was awesome and the project was beautifully executed!

Dining Room in West Trail Drive | Moody Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Full home remodel and furnishings | Project Name: West Trail Drive Residence | Key Feature: A moody, modern aesthetic built from the ground up through renovation and furnishings, where every finish, fixture, and piece of furniture was selected to work as a cohesive whole rather than a collection of separate decisions. Challenge: The home had good bones but felt generic. The clients wanted something that reflected a specific point of view, not a safe Scottsdale palette. The risk with moody, dark interiors is that they can feel heavy or disconnected if the layering isn't right. Solution: Living with Lolo led both the remodel and the furnishings, which meant the design intent carried through from the walls and floors all the way to how the room actually lives. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, there was no handoff between designer and contractor. That single point of accountability kept the vision intact and the project on track. Materials: Custom cabinetry, natural stone surfaces, designer lighting, curated furniture and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $150,000 to $400,000 | Timeline: 4 to 8 months.

Bathroom in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Perched in the rolling landscape of Alta, Wyoming, this legacy home was thoughtfully designed to belong to the land, not dominate it. Nestled into the hillside with sweeping views of the elk migration path and the Teton Range, every decision was made with future generations in mind. Led by Julie Cavanaugh, this project reflects her passion for designing legacy homes...places that honor family history, respect the land, and are built to be passed down for generations. With roots on this property dating back to the late 1800s, the homeowners envisioned a home that would tell their family’s story well into the future. As featured in the latest edition of Mountain Living Magazine, this home is more than a retreat, it’s a promise to the past and a gift to generations to come. With 70 acres of land, this timber framed home totals 5,752 sf. - 4 bed, 4.5 bath

​​The kitchen conversion was a complete reconfiguration to include a scullery/laundry room. The small spaces required intentional decisions to preserve the necessary function of the Kitchen, while providing opportunities for displaying art and heirloom pieces. The soft palate blends warm and cool tones of grey with walnut introduced on the island, hood and the interior of the glass cabinetry to seamlessly unify the space.

This is a perfect example of how we work, and why our clients choose to work with us once they meet us. Kitchen remodel is not only about buying Cabinets. It’s much, much more than that. It’s finding the right people who can think on the fly/outside the box. Who can design/re-design and execute the details even when they have to make delicate and complicated decisions in the field to help keep the project on time. White solid Wood Cabinets, double crown moldings, Drawer microwave, pot filler, and large 30” undermount stainless steel sink with a tall faucet to anchor it. Bold backsplash tiles, elegant 36” professional hood, light rail moldings, pull out Drawers and organizers inside of the cabinets, LED lighting on dimmer switches all combined with new matching wood flooring made this kitchen stand out in this space. Cabinets, Countertop and design were provided by RAJ team, along with other collaborative team work between our recommended General Contractor and our client. The entire team was awesome and the project was beautifully executed!

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Bathroom in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

“Remodel for the Neighbors” Judkins Park Project featured on “Renovation Nation” television show Description House lift and wholesale remodel of a structure that everyone called a teardown. This is one of four homes built in 1908, in an area where townhomes are on the march, and cottages on the way out. Challenge Everything in the house was ruined. On the outside the asbestos siding was crumbling, and the back addition was turning into a nurse log. There were rickety wooden stairs to get down to the back yard, disconnecting the main living space from the yard. Inside the kitchen floor was extremely weak and rainwater was sheeting down one wall. Inspiration We loved the history of the house and wanted to preserve the fabric of the neighborhood. There was great proportion to house. It had great structural bones with a box ceiling and beautiful inlaid floor. This was a move that you make from the heart, and it drove our decisions. Solution + Innovation We honored the spirit of the historic house, but added modern elements that fit the character, kept the relationship to the street, and the integrity to the other houses in the row. We lifted the house and built a full-height ICF insulated concrete form basement, then set it back down. We built an addition to achieve an interior staircase to connect the upstairs living space with the back yard which only added 8.5 feet in length to the house. We also created a hydronic heating system in the wood floor, making this a low load hydronic house. How is it sustainable? We didn’t tear down the house and instead made the best of what we had to work with. We recycled wood and used forest salvaged wood for the cabinets. We repurposed a laboratory sink as a bath tub, and made stairs out of Garfield High School bleachers that we salvaged from another project. The overall energy usage is exceptional. We skinned the outside with insulation before the new siding went back on. We added solar, best in class windows, and LED lighting throughout. The entire 2200 square foot house uses one 50-gallon water tank, and the house is heated with this one tank.

The design approach focused on updating the kitchen while honoring the home’s original character. Rather than introducing a completely different aesthetic, the goal was to reinterpret the existing warmth, texture, and craftsmanship in a fresh way. A key decision was selecting cabinetry that could reflect the richness of the original bamboo. This led to a custom walnut finish that felt authentic to the home yet elevated in its execution. Eclectic materials were thoughtfully layered to create interest and personality, but carefully balanced so the space felt curated, cohesive, and enduring. The updated design includes slate flooring, Plato Cabinetry in a custom walnut finish, and 3 cm soapstone countertops that add depth and natural character. High-performance Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances—including a Sub-Zero refrigerator and beverage center, along with a Wolf speed oven and hood—bring modern functionality to this artfully composed space.

Bathroom in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

The major kitchen renovation of this old country farmhouse was a task of love, one that had been planned for many years by these Barrington seasoned homeowners. After interviewing no less than five companies, the homeowners chose the design team at Advance Design Studio to make the transformation they had long planned for. “They had an understanding of the right design for the space almost from the instant they walked in the room”, says Sharon Scott of the design team of Nicole Ryan at Todd Jurs at Advance Design Studio. “They were the only designers who laid out ideas in the first meeting at the house that we really loved”, she says. “It was obvious that they understood the house, and understood us - and from then on the decision to hire them literally made itself”. The original kitchen had a dividing “wall” of cabinetry…that made the rather large space seem very small, and cut off the kitchen from the eating area that has a beautiful garden view completely hidden from the main kitchen. Circulation was poor, leaving family members on top of one another when entertaining family and friends. The new kitchen design nearly doubles the kitchen size within the original space; opening it up completely and enjoying an expansive island containing a new Kohler Whitehaven Smart Divide farm sink, a dishwasher, and pull out double trash receptacle. The great new gathering space accommodates four pull out stools beckoning grandchildren and friends alike. Removing the range from the island and relocating it to create a dramatic “feature” wall, completely out of the way of guests; it is now crowned with a beautiful completely customized wood hood designed to ventilate much more efficiently than the original island range containing a limited downdraft system. The much more efficient use of the space after removing a pantry closet made way for a fully functional “tall wall” housing a double oven and refrigerator, out of the way of guests. Removing the restrictive cabinetry wall now allowed for an expansive floor to ceiling pantry cabinet with full extension pull out shelving, and an elegant display area complete with a beautiful furniture detailed buffet. Fitting perfectly into the farmhouse charm of the old estate, Medallion Silver Lancaster cabinetry was chosen in a soft white Maple Divinity paint finish lining the perimeter. The stunning island hints to this old home’s past with Medallion Gold’s Maple Devonshire style graced with a Carriage Black Heirloom painted finish. The rubbed off black paint finish reveals the soft wood tones beneath, mimicking furniture you’d see in your grandmother’s home that has lovingly been polished for years to reveal a soft, subtly rubbed-off sheen. Counter tops reverse contrast with perimeter tops of black “Raven” granite possessing a subtle honed finish, and a shift to Quartz Difinity Viareggio - resembling white Carrera marble on the island. A simple herringbone detail completes the decorative range wall, and subtle porcelain subway tiles grace the backsplash throughout. The design is finished off with crisp Thermador and Bosch stainless steel appliances, and bright brushed cup pull and handle combination hardware. A pull down Kohler Bellaria faucet makes cleanup a breeze, and soft under-cabinet LED lighting throughout makes every work surface shine softly, and highlights the cabinetry display area with grace. One special detail was created to make the dramatic ceiling transition to a vaulted area above the breakfast nook extra special. A tongue and groove solid wood ceiling was hung above, and a subtle greenish-grey distressed paint finish was hand developed on site by the talented crew, complementing the new kitchen with a completely unique surface that appears as if it’s been there for many, many years. It’s just one standout feature in the amazing new space that is sure to be in every conversation as newcomers enjoy the newest best hangout in this old home renewed! After 30 years of renovating homes, this now content homeowner sips a cup of tea enjoying her new garden view, and reminisces projects of past – and lastly reports their experience with Advance Design Studio culminating with their amazing new kitchen to be the most enjoyable and satisfying home experience yet. Designer: Nicole Ryan Photographer: Joe Nowak

Bathroom in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Kitchen in Ironwood Drive | Warm Modern Home in Scottsdale, AZ | Room Type: Whole Home Remodel and Furnishings | Project Name: Ironwood Drive Residence | Key Feature: A Tuscan home transformed into a warm modern interior through a full remodel and furnishings, highlighted by a custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, and a new fireplace clad in basalt black stone that anchors the living space with drama and elegance. Challenge: Tuscan homes in Scottsdale are everywhere, and the design language that defined them, heavy wood, ornate details, dark iron, and rustic stone, does not transition gracefully on its own. The goal was to shed that Old World weight and move the home into something warmer and more current without losing the character that makes a remodeled home feel intentional rather than generic. Solution: Living with Lolo led the full remodel and furnishings as a single integrated project, which meant every decision from the custom cabinetry to the final throw pillow was made in service of the same design vision. The hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash brought artisan character into the kitchen in a way that felt fresh rather than Tuscan, and the basalt black stone fireplace gave the living space a bold focal point that reads as distinctly modern. Because Lauren holds both an interior design credential and an active Arizona ROC general contractor license, the construction and design were managed under one roof with no gap between the two. Materials: Custom hand-painted terracotta tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, basalt black stone fireplace, curated warm modern furnishings and textiles sourced through Living with Lolo's trade relationships. Budget: $250,000 to $550,000 | Timeline: Approximately 5 to 9 months from design through completion.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

Our client who we created this zen-like theater for was on a strict budget, but still wanted a space to enjoy a theater experience in a small group setting. We turned an unfinished space into a gorgeous, complete theater, included art and accessories, and did not have to sacrifice quality! Wise decisions when we designed the project - including creating detailed columns with drywall and moldings, selecting stylish light fixtures and substituting built-in cabinets with a one of a kind chest - led to us coming in right at our client's budget. Needless to say, our client was thrilled!