This sleek staircase serves as both functional element and architectural centerpiece in this home. Black steel stringers create bold visual lines against crisp white walls, while thick red oak treads add natural warmth and texture. Minimalist metal vertical balusters open up the stair system. The clean lines and mixed materials complement the home's contemporary aesthetic, creating visual interest from every angle. The thoughtful integration of wood and steel demonstrates how contrasting materials can work in harmony to define a modern interior. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The overall vision for the kitchen is a modern, slightly edgy space that is still warm and inviting. As a designer, I like to push people out of their comfort zones. We’ve done that a few ways with this kitchen – Ebony and matte gray cabinets, mixing cabinet and countertop materials, and mixing metals. We’ve all seen and done the white kitchen for the last 10 years. I wanted to demonstrate that a black kitchen is functional and dramatic and not the dark cave everyone fears. To soften the black, we’ve incorporated organic elements like natural woods, handmade backsplash tiles, brass and the flowing, organic patterns of the fabrics.

This thoughtfully designed luxury primary bedroom blends refined materials with calming tones to create a serene, elevated retreat. A custom statement wallpaper in soft blue and gray hues adds depth and visual interest, transforming the feature wall into a sophisticated focal point. The layered pattern introduces texture while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere—perfect for a restful master suite. An upholstered bed with plush, tailored bedding enhances comfort, while custom nightstands with sleek hardware provide both function and elegance. Integrated modern wall sconces offer ambient bedside lighting, ideal for reading and creating a warm, inviting glow. Carefully curated styling elements—including decorative accessories, layered textiles, and balanced proportions—reflect a cohesive, high-end interior design approach. From finish selections to lighting placement, every detail was thoughtfully considered to create a custom primary bedroom design that feels timeless, serene, and luxurious. Ideal for homeowners seeking primary suite renovations, custom bedroom interiors, or luxury home design, this space demonstrates how elevated materials, statement wallpaper, and tailored furnishings can transform a bedroom into a sophisticated personal retreat.

Refined simplicity defines this clean, contemporary staircase. Dark solid oak treads contrast beautifully with crisp white risers, square balusters, and newels, creating a striking visual rhythm. The design includes a thoughtful landing that doubles as a reading nook, transforming a transitional space into a destination. White railing runs the full length of the stairwell, maintaining the home's bright, minimalist aesthetic while providing safety and structure. Every element was precisely crafted to meet the architect and builder's exacting vision, demonstrating how attention to detail and modern machining capabilities can bring refined designs to life. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

A dramatic vertical backdrop of black marble with white inclusions frames this unique freestanding staircase in an open-concept home. As the staircase descends into the naturally lit area below, white oak treads appear to float against the striking marble wall. The handrail is crafted from the same black marble as the backdrop, demonstrating how thoughtful material choices create true luxury. A glass panel railing system completes the design, creating an unexpected focal point that pairs organic warmth with luxurious stone. The interplay between natural wood, transparent glass, and dramatic marble proves that a staircase can be both functional architecture and sculptural art. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Kane Remodeling transformed this dated bathroom into a stunning modern retreat. The remodel features elegant marble-look tiles on the walls, perfectly complemented by the bold green herringbone accent wall in the shower. A freestanding soaking tub serves as the centerpiece, offering both style and relaxation. Black matte fixtures add a touch of sophistication, while the custom frameless glass enclosure creates a seamless, open feel. The vanity, with its intricate carved wood design, brings warmth and texture to the space, enhanced by double mirrors and modern lighting. This project demonstrates Kane Remodeling's commitment to quality craftsmanship and functional design.

This sleek staircase serves as both functional element and architectural centerpiece in this home. Black steel stringers create bold visual lines against crisp white walls, while thick red oak treads add natural warmth and texture. Minimalist metal vertical balusters open up the stair system. The clean lines and mixed materials complement the home's contemporary aesthetic, creating visual interest from every angle. The thoughtful integration of wood and steel demonstrates how contrasting materials can work in harmony to define a modern interior. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

We believe Alaskans deserve the best and should be able to find it here. For over 30 years we have been providing the finest home furnishings, design, and customer service in Alaska. In our showroom we carry only the highest quality furniture available from companies like Stickley, Hancock & Moore, and Marge Carson among others. Find that piece you have been looking for or let us custom order it for you! Look through our large selection of hand knotted designer and collector rugs from all over the world. Choose that perfect fabric for your window coverings or watch a demonstration of Q-Motion remote controlled window shades. Whatever your design needs may be, our staff at Elaine S. Baker & Associates has over 60 years of combined experience to help you turn your house into a home.

Demonstration Cooking Island
Inspiration for a transitional kitchen remodel in Atlanta

For this HouseHome project, we transformed the main floor of a classic 1940s home into a luxury living space that balances historical integrity with contemporary refinement. The renovation emphasizes ornate detailing and timeless architectural elements, celebrating the precision and craftsmanship of mid-century design while introducing modern functionality. The design aesthetic is rooted in discipline, subtlety, and quality, using a subdued color palette that enhances the home’s architectural features and highlights the care put into every detail. Custom fine millwork and meticulously crafted trim elevate the spaces, adding depth, elegance, and a sense of permanence that only true artisanal work can achieve. This luxury main floor renovation in Colorado demonstrates HouseHome’s signature approach: blending historical inspiration, refined materials, and thoughtful design to create spaces that feel sophisticated, intentional, and timeless. Every element—from layout to finishes—reflects a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty...just the way the client likes it, and what we love to deliver at HouseHome.

Eastlawn Addition includes 632 sf of new living space. The Master Bedroom in the addition features a vaulted ceiling with clerestory windows. The Master Bath features a shower surround glass doors and noce travertine. Cork flooring and carpet throughout. The exterior shows an integrated roofline with demonstrates the thoughtful design used in this project.

Designed and built by Living Stone Design + Build in 2022, the Scanlon Residence's transitional deck creates a sophisticated outdoor living space that harmonizes with Western North Carolina's mountain setting. This premium outdoor extension demonstrates the builder's expertise in crafting high-performance luxury homes with seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.

This bright and inviting breakfast nook is the perfect complement to the remodeled kitchen, creating a cozy yet sophisticated space for casual meals and morning gatherings. Large windows fill the nook with natural light, highlighting the soft, neutral color palette and carefully selected finishes that make the space feel open and airy. Custom seating and a bespoke table provide a warm, functional gathering area, while subtle architectural details — including trim, built-in storage, and thoughtfully chosen lighting — add depth and elegance without overwhelming the space. The breakfast nook seamlessly connects to the kitchen, offering a practical layout for daily living while maintaining a stylish, comfortable atmosphere. Whether it’s a quiet morning coffee or family brunch, this area demonstrates how luxury materials, natural light, and custom design can transform a simple dining spot into a standout feature of the home.

This custom powder room was designed to make a lasting impression through a thoughtful combination of luxurious materials, bold color, and refined detailing. A custom white oak vanity brings warmth and natural texture to the space, while a marble countertop with an integrated sink introduces timeless elegance. Brushed brass plumbing fixtures and decorative hardware provide a sophisticated contrast, creating a cohesive palette that feels both modern and enduring. The rich mauve textured wallcovering transforms the room into a jewel box, adding depth and warmth while complementing the natural wood tones. A custom brass-framed mirror and sculptural glass pendant lights elevate the space, layering light and architectural interest while creating a welcoming ambiance. Every detail—from the carefully selected finishes to the tailored proportions—was designed to turn this compact room into a memorable design moment. This powder room demonstrates how thoughtful material selections, custom millwork, and layered lighting can transform a small space into one of the most elegant and impactful rooms in the home.

This elegant, curved staircase creates a striking first impression in a Classic Homes model home. Black-painted red oak treads pair seamlessly with black metal balusters, creating dramatic monochromatic appeal that commands attention. A custom-designed curved handrail follows the graceful arc of the staircase with precision, flowing smoothly all the way to the upper overlook. The result is a cohesive design that demonstrates how bold color choices and expert craftsmanship can transform a traditional curved form into a contemporary statement piece. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This stunning project by Casa Utopia Builders in Fremont, California showcases a full custom home remodel and addition, blending modern design with warm natural finishes to create a sophisticated and functional space. The transformation included a 530 sq. ft. home addition, expanded living areas, a new open-concept kitchen, and multiple modern bathroom remodels, as well as a full upgrade to the flooring, lighting, and finishes throughout the home. Key Highlights: Vaulted ceilings with LED recessed lighting and new skylights Contemporary floating staircase with glass railing and custom oak hardwood flooring Elegant floor-to-ceiling fireplace with tile surround and built-in lighting Chef-style kitchen with custom cabinetry, waterfall-edge island, and under-cabinet lighting Spa-like bathrooms with floating vanities, modern tilework, LED mirrors, and frameless glass showers Smart home upgrades including EV charging station and solar-ready panel Complete exterior stucco and paint, new doors/windows, and a custom outdoor gazebo rebuild This project demonstrates our full-scope capabilities—from foundation and framing to the final interior finishes. It reflects our commitment to design excellence, high-end craftsmanship, and client-focused project management. ? Project Location: Fremont, CA ? Scope: Full Home Remodel + 530 SQFT Addition ? Style Tags: Contemporary | Modern | Warm Minimalism | Luxury Remodel

Challenge: This prestigious Bridle Path kitchen suffered from poor lighting and functionality issues that prevented it from reaching its full potential. Our clients desired a luxury kitchen that would serve as both a functional workspace and an elegant entertaining hub, requiring us to address the lighting deficiencies while creating a sophisticated aesthetic worthy of this upscale neighborhood. Solution: We transformed this space into a luxury kitchen that balances exceptional functionality with breathtaking beauty. The design centers around the stunning Taj Mahal quartzite, whose naturally elegant patterns became the foundation for all other design decisions. By addressing the lighting challenges and incorporating warm finishes throughout, we created a space that feels both inviting and sophisticated. Highlights: • Taj Mahal quartzite countertops and backsplash - the jewel of the space with naturally beautiful and elegant patterns • Custom millwork cabinetry designed for both beauty and optimal functionality • High-end appliances seamlessly integrated into the sophisticated design • Warm finishes throughout that complement the quartzite's natural beauty • Expert craftsmanship by skilled local fabricators ensuring flawless installation Results: The transformed kitchen now serves as a stunning centerpiece of this Bridle Path home, where the Taj Mahal quartzite's natural elegance takes center stage. This project demonstrates our ability to solve functional challenges while creating luxury spaces that celebrate exceptional materials, proving that sometimes the most beautiful design solutions let natural beauty shine without unnecessary embellishment.

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today. A Remodel That Balances Past and Present What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form. Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner. A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it. Navigating Challenges With Precision The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved. Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly. Details That Respect the Eichler DNA The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness. At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence. The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving. Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process. The Value of Evolving Scope As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun. The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA. Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa. Contractor: Golden Cove Construction Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2024 Location: Sunnyvale, CA

Showcasing the custom detail of the exposed beams demonstrating collar ties, king post, and faux decorative beams. Photos by Imagesmith Photo
Family room - mid-sized cottage loft-style family room idea in Albuquerque with a standard fireplace and a stone fireplace