Photo: Shelley Zatsky © 2016 Houzz
Inspiration for a contemporary home office remodel in Boston

The Watonga residence was commissioned by a woman with a big heart for animal fostering. She wanted a house that felt private from the street but visually and physically connected to the backyard. The house needed to consider the typology and scale of the existing neighborhood, and it needed durable materials to accommodate little paws. Finally, it had to support an environmentally conscientious life. The house was intentionally placed on the short end of an irregularly shaped lot, allowing the living spaces to open up to a large native landscape and adjacent lot containing a significant tree grove. This siting allowed for a passive orientation where window walls face north and exposure to the south and west is minimal. The interior is light-filled, capturing expansive landscape views of an established oak grove to the North and bayou views to the East. A carefully choreographed entry vestibule and screen shield create interior privacy from the street. A two-story volume fills the center of the home with warm, southern light. A palette of tile, Texas stone, and concrete are used for budget friendly durability. The house is derived from a simple diagram with utilitarian functions placed in the stone box and living in a minimal gabled roof that supports solar panel orientation and rainwater collection. At its core, this home is designed for family, foster dogs, well-curated music, and Aggie game days.

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.

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.

Photo credit: Mirage Ceramiche Koru is an Italian-produced porcelain tile used for walls and floors that interprets wood found in fruit trees. The name Koru derives from a Maori word and symbol representing new life, growth and peach. The colors of Koru are clean and crisp, creating a final look that creates a peaceful living space. Tileshop 1005 Harrison Street Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 525-4312 Other California locations: San Jose and Van Nuys (Los Angeles)

Photo credit: Mirage Ceramiche Koru is an Italian-produced porcelain tile used for walls and floors that interprets wood found in fruit trees. The name Koru derives from a Maori word and symbol representing new life, growth and peach. The colors of Koru are clean and crisp, creating a final look that creates a peaceful living space. Tileshop 1005 Harrison Street Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 525-4312 Other California locations: San Jose and Van Nuys (Los Angeles)

Example of a mid-sized transitional freestanding desk dark wood floor and brown floor study room design in New York with beige walls and no fireplace

Inspiration for a large timeless u-shaped travertine floor and beige floor wet bar remodel with flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, granite countertops and an undermount sink

Photo credit: Mirage Ceramiche Koru is an Italian-produced porcelain tile used for walls and floors that interprets wood found in fruit trees. The name Koru derives from a Maori word and symbol representing new life, growth and peach. The colors of Koru are clean and crisp, creating a final look that creates a peaceful living space. Tileshop 1005 Harrison Street Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 525-4312 Other California locations: San Jose and Van Nuys (Los Angeles)

In early 2002 Vetter Denk Architects undertook the challenge to create a highly designed affordable home. Working within the constraints of a narrow lake site, the Aperture House utilizes a regimented four-foot grid and factory prefabricated panels. Construction was completed on the home in the Fall of 2002. The Aperture House derives its name from the expansive walls of glass at each end framing specific outdoor views – much like the aperture of a camera. It was featured in the March 2003 issue of Milwaukee Magazine and received a 2003 Honor Award from the Wisconsin Chapter of the AIA. Vetter Denk Architects is pleased to present the Aperture House – an award-winning home of refined elegance at an affordable price. Overview Moose Lake Size 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, recreation room Completion Date 2004 Services Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture

When full-time Massachusetts residents contemplate building a second home in Telluride, Colorado the question immediately arises; does it make most sense to hire a regionally based Rocky Mountain architect or a sea level architect conveniently located for all of the rigorous collaboration required for successful bespoke home design. Determined to prove the latter true, Siemasko + Verbridge accompanied the potential client as they scoured the undulating Telluride landscape in search of the perfect house site. The selected site’s harmonious balance of untouched meadow rising up to meet the edge of an aspen grove and the opposing 180 degree view of Wilson’s Range spoke to everyone. A plateau just beyond a fork in the meadow provided a natural flatland, requiring little excavation and yet the right amount of upland slope to capture the views. The intrinsic character of the site was only enriched by an elk trail and snake-rail fence. Establishing the expanse of Wilson’s range would be best served by rejecting the notion of selected views, the central sweeping curve of the roof inverts a small saddle in the range with which it is perfectly aligned. The soaring wave of custom windows and the open floor plan make the relatively modest house feel sizable despite its footprint of just under 2,000 square feet. Officially a two bedroom home, the bunk room and loft allow the home to comfortably sleep ten, encouraging large gatherings of family and friends. The home is completely off the grid in response to the unique and fragile qualities of the landscape. Great care was taken to respect the regions vernacular through the use of mostly native materials and a palette derived from the terrain found at 9,820 feet above sea level. Photographer: Gibeon Photography

Prim and proper with a dash of masculine charm. Designed to float in a room or use as pairs in front of the fire, Inter-Woven offers eye-catching details from every angle. A handsome mix of materials gives this sleek and slender sofa its masculine sensibilities. Brass brackets define the corners of the burled walnut frame and brass ferrules cap the slender legs. The sofa derives its name from the intricately woven leather strapping that weaves in and out of brass bars along the sofa’s back and sides. Upholstered in an incredibly soft, textured, diagonal chenille, this sofa is a prime spot for relaxing and casual entertaining. Dimensions: 78W x 35.5D x 30.25H Seat Height: 21.5 Arm Height: 30.25 Features: Woven Leather Side and Back Panels, Brass Accents and Dowels, Loose Seat and Back Cushions Construction: Ultra Plush Down Cushion, 8-Way Hand Tied Sea

"Relativity" (left) - The law of conservation of momentum can be derived from Newton's second law of motion (force equals mass times acceleration, or F=ma). This concept was the inspiration for Relativity. Simple and clean in its design, yet portraying the concept of action and reaction...this piece is calming, yet inspiring. An ultra-modern new build was the original inspiration for this design. It's fun to be given an opportunity to paint pictures for a brand new home that is like a gallery. I wanted to honor the theme of a mid-century revival home in the designs I made. A king size bed in a spacious master bedroom allowed for art that was dramatic and inspirational. I ended up making three pieces of the same design. One piece can stand alone, or multiples can be grouped together to cover a large area and create impact. 24"x48", Acrylic on Canvas with Fabric Trim.

Duo contrasting cabinets perfectly designed and laid out for this log cabin kitchen remodel. Choosing natural wood cabinets for the island with contrasting stark white cabinets for the perimeter of the kitchen is stunning! First, client came to showroom looking to make their kitchen more function. Being a log cabin and prior remodels made this a bit tricky from the previous owners. Next, we began working around support beams with the client. However, a solution from owner was derived to make the space more functional by bringing the wall out further. This allotted more space for the wall cabinets and made the space more appealing. Cabinet selection and designing was next in process. Island selection is natural hickory cabinets with a liquid toffee glaze. Which added richness to the island bringing warmth into the kitchen. Tying in the woods from the ceiling and various walls. Additionally, the painted alder cabinets with a glaze along the perimeter brighten up the cozy kitchen. Finally, adding beautiful desert beach granite countertops tops off the project. This kitchen will be enjoyable for years to come.

Photo credit: Mirage Ceramiche Koru is an Italian-produced porcelain tile used for walls and floors that interprets wood found in fruit trees. The name Koru derives from a Maori word and symbol representing new life, growth and peach. The colors of Koru are clean and crisp, creating a final look that creates a peaceful living space. Tileshop 1005 Harrison Street Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 525-4312 Other California locations: San Jose and Van Nuys (Los Angeles)

Photo credit: Mirage Ceramiche Koru is an Italian-produced porcelain tile used for walls and floors that interprets wood found in fruit trees. The name Koru derives from a Maori word and symbol representing new life, growth and peach. The colors of Koru are clean and crisp, creating a final look that creates a peaceful living space. Tileshop 1005 Harrison Street Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 525-4312 Other California locations: San Jose and Van Nuys (Los Angeles)

Duo contrasting cabinets perfectly designed and laid out for this log cabin kitchen remodel. Choosing natural wood cabinets for the island with contrasting stark white cabinets for the perimeter of the kitchen is stunning! First, client came to showroom looking to make their kitchen more function. Being a log cabin and prior remodels made this a bit tricky from the previous owners. Next, we began working around support beams with the client. However, a solution from owner was derived to make the space more functional by bringing the wall out further. This allotted more space for the wall cabinets and made the space more appealing. Cabinet selection and designing was next in process. Island selection is natural hickory cabinets with a liquid toffee glaze. Which added richness to the island bringing warmth into the kitchen. Tying in the woods from the ceiling and various walls. Additionally, the painted alder cabinets with a glaze along the perimeter brighten up the cozy kitchen. Finally, adding beautiful desert beach granite countertops tops off the project. This kitchen will be enjoyable for years to come.

Duo contrasting cabinets perfectly designed and laid out for this log cabin kitchen remodel. Choosing natural wood cabinets for the island with contrasting stark white cabinets for the perimeter of the kitchen is stunning! First, client came to showroom looking to make their kitchen more function. Being a log cabin and prior remodels made this a bit tricky from the previous owners. Next, we began working around support beams with the client. However, a solution from owner was derived to make the space more functional by bringing the wall out further. This allotted more space for the wall cabinets and made the space more appealing. Cabinet selection and designing was next in process. Island selection is natural hickory cabinets with a liquid toffee glaze. Which added richness to the island bringing warmth into the kitchen. Tying in the woods from the ceiling and various walls. Additionally, the painted alder cabinets with a glaze along the perimeter brighten up the cozy kitchen. Finally, adding beautiful desert beach granite countertops tops off the project. This kitchen will be enjoyable for years to come.

Modernity derived from reinterpretation of timeless refinement is the predominant character of the Matisse Contemporary Upholstered Bed. Designed by Marzia Fortuzzi for Cattelan Italia and manufactured in Italy, Matisse Platform Bed expresses enigmatic elegance through the creative use of essential shapes, curvatures and luxurious materials.