Photos: Jess Isaac, Design: Emily Henderson
Example of a transitional bathroom design in San Francisco

Example of a mid-sized transitional master white floor, double-sink and wallpaper bathroom design in Atlanta with turquoise cabinets, an undermount sink, marble countertops, a hinged shower door, white countertops, a freestanding vanity and recessed-panel cabinets

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Irving Place Residence. New York, NY. Photography by Biz Jones.
Inspiration for a mid-century modern freestanding desk home office remodel in New York with white walls

Set in a downtown Kirkland neighborhood, the 1st Street project captures the best of suburban living. The open floor plan brings kitchen, dining, and living space within reach, and rich wood beams, shiplap, and stone accents add timeless texture with a modern twist. Four bedrooms and a sprawling daylight basement create distinct spaces for family life, and the finished covered patio invites residents to breathe in the best of Pacific Northwest summers.

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional 3/4 white tile and subway tile brown floor alcove shower remodel in DC Metro with recessed-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, a two-piece toilet, white walls, an undermount sink, a hinged shower door, white countertops and quartz countertops

SCOTT PETERSEN
Family room - rustic family room idea in Salt Lake City

The Home The Sequoia is making its official debut! This beautiful two-story, main level master suite home offers luxurious and energy efficient living that appeals to all. The open floor plan is a perfect fit for those who love to entertain, enjoy having family and friends visit or stay, or are seeking multi-generational living. This home exudes grandeur and elegance with its high ceilings, entry overlook, and two-story great room. The foyer beckons you to an expansive great room with an abundance of windows to view those beautiful Colorado sunsets. Adjoining is a spacious dining area and beautiful chef’s kitchen featuring designer cabinetry, wall ovens and gas range that are perfect for lovers of culinary – offering plenty of space to prepare all things food! Elegant arches, crisp colors in fixtures and finishes, granite and quartz, stunning wood floors and sophisticated design pull this masterpiece together. The finished basement welcomes many activities such as kids’ homework and play-time, family movie nights, watch parties for The Big Game and so much more! The Sequoia offers the ability to have two master suites for added space. The main-level location offers you a sanctuary of peace while adjoining to a luxurious bathroom area that includes two walk-in closets. The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious sitting area and five-piece bath, giving you that spa-like experience from your own home. The vibrant and unique architecture of this multigenerational home is composed of elegant touches and craftsmanship from the inside and out! With views of Pikes Peak, tree-lined sidewalks, and one of the best locations in eastern Colorado Springs, the premier neighborhood of Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch is the perfect frosting for this home. Don’t forget that all of our homes are HERS rated! Our Meridian Ranch homesites located in Stonebridge have convenient access to the newest neighborhood parks and amenities. Running and walking trails, access to the private lodge, and plentiful open spaces make Stonebridge a premier community in the region! Covington Homes at Stonebridge in Meridian Ranch is a smart choice for anyone seeking to live the ‘Good Life.’ The Builder Doing the right things, the right way - that is who we are. Creating a better way of living – that is what we do. Covington Homes is a local and family owned business committed to creating community. The Covington team continues to bring beautiful and exceptionally well-built homes and communities to eastern Colorado Springs and El Paso County with the hard work and dedication of our awardwinning team. As a result, our homes stand the test of time. At Covington Homes, we are focused on creating community. We are known as the builder with the highest level of customer care that can be found. Our homes are well thought out, fully planned and exceptionally executed. Covington Homes is currently building in District 20 at Wolf Ranch, in District 49 at Banning Lewis Ranch, in Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch and our newest community in North Carefree, the Gardens. The Interior Design The Sequoia is simple and understated luxury, topped off with modern farmhouse appeal. Designed with form, function and livability in mind, this amazing layout appeals to all. In a world that is ever-changing and hectic (social media, technology and increased demands), this home is designed to calm and sooth the soul once you step inside. Designer Grace Covington (GC Luxury Homes) brings eclectic farmhouse and modern design elements together to create a refined yet relaxed environment. The use of current colors, textiles, finishes and products blended with decor that reminds one of their favorite family memories, bring personality and warmth to this home. Meridian Ranch is a beautiful setting with amazing views of the mountains and Pikes Peak, so particular care was taken to select finishes and decor reminiscent of a peaceful country life. Muted tones of greige with surprising pops of color, creative use of woods, sleek lighting and bath fixtures, modern tile-work and the sprinkling of cottage textures throughout- this home is gorgeous! Tranquil luxury in a beautiful and vibrant community - the Sequoia is the perfect home!

For over 70 years, Simonton’s lasting commitment to quality and product excellence has built an award-winning legacy and customer satisfaction. Recognized by pros and homeowners alike, every Simonton built window and door is tested to the demanding AAMA Gold Label Certification program and offers an industry-leading Lifetime Limited Warranty making them a lasting, quality investment for your home.

Neil Landino
Example of a large transitional home design design in New York

BEOVISION AVANT BeoVision Avant is a state-of-the-art TV featuring Ultra-High Definition (4K) images, a powerful 3-channel speaker system and total flexibility in terms of placement options. Precision tuned to Bang & Olufsen's most demanding standards, BeoVision Avant redefines the audio impact a TV can deliver. The 3-channel speaker system harnesses three dedicated tweeters, three midrange units and two powerful bass drivers. The result is a combination of clarity and power that truly embodies Bang & Olufsen's commitment to ultimate sound.

For over 70 years, Simonton’s lasting commitment to quality and product excellence has built an award-winning legacy and customer satisfaction. Recognized by pros and homeowners alike, every Simonton built window and door is tested to the demanding AAMA Gold Label Certification program and offers an industry-leading Lifetime Limited Warranty making them a lasting, quality investment for your home.

The rustic copper-colored range hood demands attention in this luxury kitchen. Hardwood floors and upper cabinet lighting add warmth to this espresso, white, and grey kitchen.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed garage remodeling project in Elmhurst, IL. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to transforming spaces, we have turned an ordinary garage into an exceptional area that combines functionality, organization, and aesthetic appeal. Our team of skilled professionals worked diligently to deliver outstanding results that surpass expectations. The finished garage stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and creating dream spaces. Upon entering the remodeled garage, you will be greeted by a space that has been completely transformed. Every aspect of the design has been thoughtfully executed to optimize functionality and enhance visual appeal. From organization solutions to exquisite finishes, our goal was to create a garage that is both practical and visually stunning. In addition to functionality, the aesthetics of the garage have been elevated to create a visually pleasing environment. Thoughtfully chosen flooring materials add a touch of sophistication, while modern lighting fixtures illuminate the space and enhance visibility. The garage now exudes a sense of style and elegance, making it a pleasant extension of your home. Make a Dream Home's commitment to quality is reflected in every aspect of the project. Our team utilized high-quality materials and employed expert craftsmanship to ensure durability and longevity. The finished garage is not only visually impressive but also built to withstand the demands of everyday use. With this completed garage remodeling project in Elmhurst, IL, Make a Dream Home has proven to be a trusted partner in creating exceptional spaces. Whether you seek a garage renovation, organization solutions, or a complete makeover, our team is dedicated to turning your vision into reality. Experience the joy and convenience of a beautifully remodeled garage that perfectly aligns with your needs and surpasses your expectations. Choose Make a Dream Home for your next garage remodeling project and let us bring your dream space to life.

BEOVISION AVANT BeoVision Avant is a state-of-the-art TV featuring Ultra-High Definition (4K) images, a powerful 3-channel speaker system and total flexibility in terms of placement options. Precision tuned to Bang & Olufsen's most demanding standards, BeoVision Avant redefines the audio impact a TV can deliver. The 3-channel speaker system harnesses three dedicated tweeters, three midrange units and two powerful bass drivers. The result is a combination of clarity and power that truly embodies Bang & Olufsen's commitment to ultimate sound.

The Home The Sequoia is making its official debut! This beautiful two-story, main level master suite home offers luxurious and energy efficient living that appeals to all. The open floor plan is a perfect fit for those who love to entertain, enjoy having family and friends visit or stay, or are seeking multi-generational living. This home exudes grandeur and elegance with its high ceilings, entry overlook, and two-story great room. The foyer beckons you to an expansive great room with an abundance of windows to view those beautiful Colorado sunsets. Adjoining is a spacious dining area and beautiful chef’s kitchen featuring designer cabinetry, wall ovens and gas range that are perfect for lovers of culinary – offering plenty of space to prepare all things food! Elegant arches, crisp colors in fixtures and finishes, granite and quartz, stunning wood floors and sophisticated design pull this masterpiece together. The finished basement welcomes many activities such as kids’ homework and play-time, family movie nights, watch parties for The Big Game and so much more! The Sequoia offers the ability to have two master suites for added space. The main-level location offers you a sanctuary of peace while adjoining to a luxurious bathroom area that includes two walk-in closets. The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious sitting area and five-piece bath, giving you that spa-like experience from your own home. The vibrant and unique architecture of this multigenerational home is composed of elegant touches and craftsmanship from the inside and out! With views of Pikes Peak, tree-lined sidewalks, and one of the best locations in eastern Colorado Springs, the premier neighborhood of Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch is the perfect frosting for this home. Don’t forget that all of our homes are HERS rated! Our Meridian Ranch homesites located in Stonebridge have convenient access to the newest neighborhood parks and amenities. Running and walking trails, access to the private lodge, and plentiful open spaces make Stonebridge a premier community in the region! Covington Homes at Stonebridge in Meridian Ranch is a smart choice for anyone seeking to live the ‘Good Life.’ The Builder Doing the right things, the right way - that is who we are. Creating a better way of living – that is what we do. Covington Homes is a local and family owned business committed to creating community. The Covington team continues to bring beautiful and exceptionally well-built homes and communities to eastern Colorado Springs and El Paso County with the hard work and dedication of our awardwinning team. As a result, our homes stand the test of time. At Covington Homes, we are focused on creating community. We are known as the builder with the highest level of customer care that can be found. Our homes are well thought out, fully planned and exceptionally executed. Covington Homes is currently building in District 20 at Wolf Ranch, in District 49 at Banning Lewis Ranch, in Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch and our newest community in North Carefree, the Gardens. The Interior Design The Sequoia is simple and understated luxury, topped off with modern farmhouse appeal. Designed with form, function and livability in mind, this amazing layout appeals to all. In a world that is ever-changing and hectic (social media, technology and increased demands), this home is designed to calm and sooth the soul once you step inside. Designer Grace Covington (GC Luxury Homes) brings eclectic farmhouse and modern design elements together to create a refined yet relaxed environment. The use of current colors, textiles, finishes and products blended with decor that reminds one of their favorite family memories, bring personality and warmth to this home. Meridian Ranch is a beautiful setting with amazing views of the mountains and Pikes Peak, so particular care was taken to select finishes and decor reminiscent of a peaceful country life. Muted tones of greige with surprising pops of color, creative use of woods, sleek lighting and bath fixtures, modern tile-work and the sprinkling of cottage textures throughout- this home is gorgeous! Tranquil luxury in a beautiful and vibrant community - the Sequoia is the perfect home!

The Home The Sequoia is making its official debut! This beautiful two-story, main level master suite home offers luxurious and energy efficient living that appeals to all. The open floor plan is a perfect fit for those who love to entertain, enjoy having family and friends visit or stay, or are seeking multi-generational living. This home exudes grandeur and elegance with its high ceilings, entry overlook, and two-story great room. The foyer beckons you to an expansive great room with an abundance of windows to view those beautiful Colorado sunsets. Adjoining is a spacious dining area and beautiful chef’s kitchen featuring designer cabinetry, wall ovens and gas range that are perfect for lovers of culinary – offering plenty of space to prepare all things food! Elegant arches, crisp colors in fixtures and finishes, granite and quartz, stunning wood floors and sophisticated design pull this masterpiece together. The finished basement welcomes many activities such as kids’ homework and play-time, family movie nights, watch parties for The Big Game and so much more! The Sequoia offers the ability to have two master suites for added space. The main-level location offers you a sanctuary of peace while adjoining to a luxurious bathroom area that includes two walk-in closets. The upper-level master retreat offers a spacious sitting area and five-piece bath, giving you that spa-like experience from your own home. The vibrant and unique architecture of this multigenerational home is composed of elegant touches and craftsmanship from the inside and out! With views of Pikes Peak, tree-lined sidewalks, and one of the best locations in eastern Colorado Springs, the premier neighborhood of Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch is the perfect frosting for this home. Don’t forget that all of our homes are HERS rated! Our Meridian Ranch homesites located in Stonebridge have convenient access to the newest neighborhood parks and amenities. Running and walking trails, access to the private lodge, and plentiful open spaces make Stonebridge a premier community in the region! Covington Homes at Stonebridge in Meridian Ranch is a smart choice for anyone seeking to live the ‘Good Life.’ The Builder Doing the right things, the right way - that is who we are. Creating a better way of living – that is what we do. Covington Homes is a local and family owned business committed to creating community. The Covington team continues to bring beautiful and exceptionally well-built homes and communities to eastern Colorado Springs and El Paso County with the hard work and dedication of our awardwinning team. As a result, our homes stand the test of time. At Covington Homes, we are focused on creating community. We are known as the builder with the highest level of customer care that can be found. Our homes are well thought out, fully planned and exceptionally executed. Covington Homes is currently building in District 20 at Wolf Ranch, in District 49 at Banning Lewis Ranch, in Stonebridge at Meridian Ranch and our newest community in North Carefree, the Gardens. The Interior Design The Sequoia is simple and understated luxury, topped off with modern farmhouse appeal. Designed with form, function and livability in mind, this amazing layout appeals to all. In a world that is ever-changing and hectic (social media, technology and increased demands), this home is designed to calm and sooth the soul once you step inside. Designer Grace Covington (GC Luxury Homes) brings eclectic farmhouse and modern design elements together to create a refined yet relaxed environment. The use of current colors, textiles, finishes and products blended with decor that reminds one of their favorite family memories, bring personality and warmth to this home. Meridian Ranch is a beautiful setting with amazing views of the mountains and Pikes Peak, so particular care was taken to select finishes and decor reminiscent of a peaceful country life. Muted tones of greige with surprising pops of color, creative use of woods, sleek lighting and bath fixtures, modern tile-work and the sprinkling of cottage textures throughout- this home is gorgeous! Tranquil luxury in a beautiful and vibrant community - the Sequoia is the perfect home!

For over 70 years, Simonton’s lasting commitment to quality and product excellence has built an award-winning legacy and customer satisfaction. Recognized by pros and homeowners alike, every Simonton built window and door is tested to the demanding AAMA Gold Label Certification program and offers an industry-leading Lifetime Limited Warranty making them a lasting, quality investment for your home.

Photography by Natalie Marotta Bungalows are lovable homes, but how can they be better? Along with many of our clients, we find that older (early 20th c.) homes have a lot of character and a comfortable scale, but are leaky, damp (especially in the basement), have fair to poor air quality, and use unconscionable amounts of fossil fuels to heat. The owners of this bungalow were ready to change that, and wanted to do so with minimal upfront carbon emissions as well. The gut renovation included replacing the basement slab and providing capillary breaks and insulation continuously below grade. The brick structure was treated with a fluid-applied air and water barrier from the interior and insulated entirely with cellulose, a carbon-storing insulation. The roof used HFO-blown spray foam to provide sufficient insulation while allowing headroom for bedrooms, bathrooms, and laundry. One great benefit of a full renovation is the possibility of reconfiguring spaces to suit the family’s lifestyle, and to make the best of indoor-outdoor connections. We opened up the main rooms on the first floor, creating a family gathering spot with a view to the back yard, and a spacious kitchen that supports the family’s commitment to cooking for healthy eating. The stair uses a north-facing skylight to bring light from above into the middle of the home, where it was previously dark. As a decarbonization retrofit, the inefficient furnace was replaced with two small ducted heat pump systems, water heating and clothes drying are powered by air-source heat pumps, and cooking uses an induction cooktop plus electric ovens. Energy recovery ventilation provides filtered fresh air continuous exhaust from the kitchen, baths, and laundry, and supplies fresh, highly filtered air to bedrooms and living spaces. The Better Bungalow now makes sense for the 21st century–it now fits the owners’ life-patterns, is super comfortable, has great air quality, and uses a fraction of the energy it did before, greatly lowering the demand on the utility grid. In the near future, when solar PV is installed, it can achieve net zero or near net zero emissions, and with battery backup, can provide great resilience in the event of power outages.