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.

Shapiro & Company was pleased to be asked to design the 2019 Vesta Home for Johnny Williams. The Vesta Home is the most popular show home in the Memphis area and attracted more than 40,000 visitors. The home was designed in a similar fashion to a custom home where we design to accommodate the family that might live here. As with many properties that are 1/3 of an acre, homes are in fairly close proximity and therefore this house was designed to focus the majority of the views into a private courtyard with a pool as its accent. The home’s style was derived from English Cottage traditions that were transformed for modern taste. Interior Designers: Garrick Ealy - Conrad Designs Kim Williams - KSW Interiors Landscaper: Bud Gurley - Gurley’s Azalea Garden Photographer: Carroll Hoselton - Memphis Media Company

This airy living room was conceived around the homeowners love of art and nature. A palette derived from sea and sand, natural elements were brought in both literally and figuratively. Warm wood and earthen accents are countered by sleek, modern accent chairs. The embroidered linen draperies draw the eye up and serve as a dramatic backdrop to the serene conversation area. Oversized mirrors transfer the ambient light throughout the room. The centerpiece of the room is a silk and copper aerial sculpture by artist Jan R. Carson (www.janrcarson.com) that is accented by a halogen spotlight. The lighting casts an ever-changing shadow, creating life and whimsy to the room. The homeowners have even been known to move the furniture back, spotlight the mobile, and use the room as a salsa dance floor! A reclaimed hand-carved door was repurposed as a coffee table. Modern elements such as the lucite "Ghost" chair, the Gus rocker, and impressionist original oil painting balance out the rustic elements of the room. Julie Austin Photography

This residential compound includes a primary residence, guesthouse, barn, dining pavilion and entry gate. The distinctive form of the architecture is derived from the Teton Range extending to the south. To respond to this phenomenon, the ridge of the gable roof is angled to allow the north wall to gently rise toward the west, mimicking the line of the mountains. The south wall naturally rises to the east capturing the preferred morning light. The materials - wood, rusted steel, copper panels, and stone - form a monochromatic palette to reinforce the sculptural energy of each building. A.I.A. Western Mountain Region Design Award of Citation 2005 A.I.A. Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Honor 2004 Project Year: Pre-2005

The name "Himmeli" is derived from the Swedish term for sky or heaven, but it was the Finns who brought the term into notoriety with their geometric Christmas decorations. True to form, the constellation-like pattern of this Himmeli Matelassé bedroom will have you starry eyed as you prepare to rest your eyes. Crafted of 100% cotton in cool gray, it's as elegantly mellow as a night of stargazing. Time to get your wish on.

The Residence, located on a birch covered mountain in Western Maine, is a response to the natural surroundings. Utilizing a rough palette of Deer Island Granite monoliths, local black slate, Red Cedar, and Eastern White Pine, the spaces derive directly from the local geology and woods. The movement of the sun throughout the seasons and day guide the orientation of the cabin, and the intricate placement of windows on the various exterior faces. The cabin is a vessel for light, crafted of natural materials, with a bright interior volume diffusing the sun's rays throughout the space.

Take a look at the image of the living/dining space with doors opening to a pool beyond. This is an elegant, finely-appointed room with aged, hand-hewn beams, dormered clerestory windows, and radiant-heated limestone floors. But the real power of the space derives less from these handsome details and more from the wide opening centered on the pool. The occupants of the room feel like they’re poolside, even while inside. When they’re entertaining, it matters little whether guests are on the terrace or in the living room; it all feels like one great space. The four-wide bank of doors is designed so that the central two are hinged directly to the flanking ones. Thus, when opened, they are precisely aligned, it seems as if there are somehow only two doors, and the assembly appears less cluttered. A mechanized, roll-down screen descends from above to completely secure the opening against insects. When the screen is in use, the doors at the far ends are used for passage (a word of advice: make sure to devise a screening solution in any multi-door design). Two images from a seasonal lakefront cottage in East Haddam combine to make an even bolder statement. This three-story building has a master suite occupying the entire third floor.

Ligne Roset Backpack Outdoor Lounge Chair softsquare.com The Backpack armchair derives its distinctive personality from the slim, elegant structure/base which is the perfect foil for the perfectly-designed silhouette of its welcomingly thick and ergonomically curved seat/back cushion. At the top of the back, the cushion rolls over on itself and is held in place by a strap on its back (red or black) which is evocative of the kind of backpack used by the explorers of yesteryear. Moving the Backpack seating is child's play: one is surprised by their lightness, which is not only visual but also real.

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.

This bay side bathrooms elegance is a derivative of light grey cabinet and tile tones, light blue wall color, expresso vanity, and oil rubbed bronze plumbing fixtures. A linen cabinet wall was also incorporated for useful storage of additional toiletries. New porcelain tile to gives the look of marble at a fraction of the cost. We included lighting in every section of the bathroom including above the bathtub, above the toilet, and the unique pendants above the double marble vanity.

The exterior of the home was designed to feel as though it was a summer lodge from the 1930s or 1940s with the idea that it would feel like it's always been there. Careful attention was paid to the detailing of the exterior and the material and color pallet. Water oaks found on the site were inspirational to the color pallet. So the stain for the shingle siding was derived from the bark on the tree. Paint colors for the trim and shutters and doors were all developed from that pallet, including the dark mossy bronze green. Sarah Rossi, Photographer

Casual yet elegant, the Etra Collection by Modern Outdoor offers a modern aesthetic that is constructed for outdoor use while being suitable for indoor settings. Etra’s visual inspiration is derived from its architectural-based frame system. Designed using structural angle steel that is mitered and ground, a clean and seamless surface gives Etra its pure appeal. Frame Options: • 304 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished • marine-grade 316 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished for use within one mile of salt air, available for an upcharge • powder coated carbon steel in our standard silver finish • custom powder coat colors, available for an upcharge Surface Options: • sustainably harvested ipe – a beautiful South American hardwood that is three times as dense as teak — naturally resistant to rot, insects, UV exposure, ice, salt, abrasion and splintering – all without the need for toxic chemicals — considered a 25+ year wood • marine-grade polyboard – a UV stabilized high-density polyethylene material that is non-corrosive and chip resistant – available in six colors for expanded design choices Fabric Options: • six standard colors of 100% solution dyed acrylic treated for outdoor use are offered • custom fabrics and COM service are also available Cushion Options: • our standard foam cushions are made from outdoor appropriate high-resiliency (HR) foam • for clients that prefer less maintenance, a flow-through foam that allows water and moisture to escape the cushion is also available for an upcharge Etra is a full-breadth line with dining, bar height, lounge, cafe, patio and pool setting pieces included. The pieces are readily customizable for individual client needs.

Nestled in a secluded mountaintop location is the captivating Contemporary Mountaintop Escape. Complementing its natural surroundings, the 2,955 square foot, four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence captures the panoramic view of the skyline and offers high-quality finishes with modern interior design. The exterior features a timber frame porch, standing seam metal roof, custom chimney cap, Barnwood siding, and a glass garage door. Reclaimed timber derived from the homeowner’s family farmhouse is incorporated throughout the structure. It is decoratively used on the exterior as well as on the interior accent walls and ceiling beams. Other central interior elements include recessed lighting, flush baseboards, and caseless windows and doors. Hickory engineered flooring is displayed upstairs, and exposed concrete slab and foundation walls complement the downstairs decor. The rustic and luxurious great room offers a wood-burning fireplace with an onsite extricated boulder hearth, reclaimed timber ceiling beams, a full reclaimed accent wall, and a charming stucco chimney. The main floor also exhibits a reclaimed, sliding barn door to enclose the in-home office space. The kitchen is situated near the great room and is defined by stainless steel appliances that include a Thermador refrigerator/freezer, an induction range, and a coordinating farmhouse sink. Other standout features are leathered granite countertops, floating reclaimed timber shelves, and stunning ebony-colored drawers. The home’s lower level provides ideal accommodations for hosting family and friends. It features a spacious living area with access to a multi-purpose mudroom complete with a kitchen. This level also includes two guest bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. All bedrooms, including the master bedroom, have caseless windows and doors, floating reclaimed shelves, and flush baseboards. The master bathroom showcases a modern floating vanity with boulder vessel sinks, wall-mounted faucets, and large format floor tile.

The warm tones mixed with all the different materials throughout this space makes it all that more inviting. Featuring custom cabinetry by Gaco Custom Furniture and a beautiful stone front fireplace, this cozy great room will allow anyone to feel at peace after a long day. The two rows of elongated windows mixed with the ceiling height really helps this space stay bright and light without deriving your attention from that main focal point, the fireplace.

The pool pavilion was constructed as a wood frame structure sheathed and roofed with cedar shake shingles. It was conceived as a new outbuilding to complement the existing structures on the property. Formal design cues were derived from a variety of sources; the existing New England shingle style main house, a Caribbean hut and the ubiquitous Connecticut tobacco barn.

David Morello
This is an example of a traditional landscaping in Houston.

Photography Robin Hill & Chance Stillman The renovation of this contemporary residence and garden is deeply inspired by its subtropical context, utilizing horizontal lines to ground the home and connect its occupants to nature. When considering how to make the most impactful intervention, the design team focused mainly on horizontal roof planes, subtropical landscaping and an abundance of clerestory windows that would all contribute to the home’s integration with its site. In contrast to the tropes of a Palm Beach traditional vernacular, this home seeks to re-establish itself within nature as a place for a young family. Architectural strategies included dematerializing the surrounding walls and expanding the roof eaves to connect the interior spaces with the surrounding gardens of the home. The site plan is organized around four main pavilions: A bedroom pavilion to the south, a cabana pavilion to the west, a garage pavilion to the north, and a central living pavilion. Each of the three pavilions engage with the central living space while still allowing nature to flow between them. The pavilions are organized around the pool deck, equipped with zero-edge detailing and layered subtropical landscaping. In this way the swimming pool doubles as a recreational component to the program but also as a mirror to expand views and reflect the surrounding landscape. A glass bridge serves as the garden threshold between the garage and the home. The renovated home and garden departs from its former Bahamian style and stands out within the community as a symbol for the future of architecture and landscape architecture within this quiet, ocean-front community. A residence derived from, and in response to, its user and environmental context; thus, re-establishing it with place. Scale 1 ACRE Scope HARDSCAPE, SWIMMING POOL + PLANTING DESIGN Year 2022 Architecture KODA Landscape Architecture LandFluent General Contractor PB Built Landscape Contractor Rood Landscape

The Magpies are delighted! This stunning project is nestled in the South Australian country township of Willunga, whose name is derived from the Aboriginal word meaning “The locality of green trees”. During the course of the renovations a family of 11 magpies swooped in and now call this abundantly treed property ‘Home’. The clever design frames the natural views to the north, uninhibited by the alfresco structure. Passive solar design methodology is employed by utilising optimal eaves overhang allowing warming winter sun to penetrate into the interior of the building, whilst excluding the harsh rays during summer. A blending of the old and new help to keep a sense of history whilst combining a modern, natural feel with a semi industrial working space. Bringing the outdoors in by maximising the views of the abundant vegetation and birdlife is a feature of this addition. Well known local identities, and the owners of this spectacular building, are now enjoying their lifestyle passion for preparing food and entertaining in this enlarged, purpose built space…. As are their fine feathered friends.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”