Stephanie Barnes-Castro is a full service architectural firm specializing in sustainable design serving Santa Cruz County. Her goal is to design a home to seamlessly tie into the natural environment and be aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient.

This custom home in the spectacular Two Dogs Subdivision is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. Designed by RLA Architects, the home was upgraded by Mantell-Hecathorn Builders to be an ultra-efficient, comfortable and durable home that showcases the beauty of the custom finish selections of the Owner. Built as a family retreat with a large rec room, alcove nooks and extensive custom cabinetry, this home maximizes outdoor livability with an expansive patio and fire pit that are perfect for enjoying the Colorado lifestyle. The owner specified many elegant touches including a beautifully crafted floating juniper countertop in the powder room that is inlaid with turquoise accents. This home achieved a HERS score of 33 without solar panels, making it 67% more efficient than a home built to County Code. Despite the demands of the mountain climate, this beautifully crafted family home earned the ZERO Energy Ready Certification Symbol of Excellence by meeting the rigorous standards set by the Department of Energy. It is also certified under the EPA’s Indoor AirPlus program to ensure a healthier living environment.

Windows reaching a grand 12’ in height fully capture the allurement of the area, bringing the outdoors into each space. Furthermore, the large 16’ multi-paneled doors provide the constant awareness of forest life just beyond. The unique roof lines are mimicked throughout the home with trapezoid transom windows, ensuring optimal daylighting and design interest. A standing-seam metal, clads the multi-tiered shed-roof line. The dark aesthetic of the roof anchors the home and brings a cohesion to the exterior design. The contemporary exterior is comprised of cedar shake, horizontal and vertical wood siding, and aluminum clad panels creating dimension while remaining true to the natural environment. The Glo A5 double pane windows and doors were utilized for their cost-effective durability and efficiency. The A5 Series provides a thermally-broken aluminum frame with multiple air seals, low iron glass, argon filled glazing, and low-e coating. These features create an unparalleled double-pane product equipped for the variant northern temperatures of the region. With u-values as low as 0.280, these windows ensure year-round comfort.

Alan Barley, AIA This soft hill country contemporary family home is nestled in a surrounding live oak sanctuary in Spicewood, Texas. A screened-in porch creates a relaxing and welcoming environment while the large windows flood the house with natural lighting. The large overhangs keep the hot Texas heat at bay. Energy efficient appliances and site specific open house plan allows for a spacious home while taking advantage of the prevailing breezes which decreases energy consumption. screened in porch, austin luxury home, austin custom home, barleypfeiffer architecture, barleypfeiffer, wood floors, sustainable design, soft hill contemporary, sleek design, pro work, modern, low voc paint, live oaks sanctuary, live oaks, interiors and consulting, house ideas, home planning, 5 star energy, hill country, high performance homes, green building, fun design, 5 star applance, find a pro, family home, elegance, efficient, custom-made, comprehensive sustainable architects, barley & pfeiffer architects,

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

The Art of Culinary Precision. Step into a masterclass of minimalist gourmet design, where high-performance functionality meets architectural elegance. These kitchens are meticulously crafted for the modern home, featuring a sophisticated interplay of champagne tones, deep charcoals, and rich wood textures. The space is defined by its monolithic silhouettes and bespoke floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that provides a seamless, clutter-free environment. Signature elements include integrated professional-grade appliances, high-gloss taupe finishes, and monolithic breakfast islands that serve as the heart of the home. Bathed in an intelligent layered lighting scheme—from under-cabinet task glows to hidden cove illumination—each kitchen transitions effortlessly from a high-efficiency workspace to a refined social arena. At Hashtag Design Studio, we believe your kitchen should be more than a utility; it should be a handcrafted environment built for a lifestyle of uncompromising luxury. #KitchenDesign #LuxuryKitchen #GourmetLife #InteriorDesign #HashtagDesignStudio #ModernKitchen #RajkotInteriors #GujaratDesign #ModularKitchen #ChefSpace #BespokeInteriors #DesignerKitchen #KitchenGoals #HighEndHomes #LuxuryLifestyle #InteriorArchitecture #HomeHeart #SleekDesign #KitchenInspiration #ModernSocialSpace #CulinaryLuxury

Embarking on a garage remodeling project is a transformative endeavor that can significantly enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the space. By investing in tailored storage solutions such as cabinets, wall-mounted organizers, and overhead racks, one can efficiently declutter the area and create a more organized storage system. Flooring upgrades, such as epoxy coatings or durable tiles, not only improve the garage's appearance but also provide a resilient surface. Adding custom workbenches or tool storage solutions contributes to a more efficient and user-friendly workspace. Additionally, incorporating proper lighting and ventilation ensures a well-lit and comfortable environment. A remodeled garage not only increases property value but also opens up possibilities for alternative uses, such as a home gym, workshop, or hobby space, making it a worthwhile investment for both practicality and lifestyle improvement.

This custom home in the spectacular Two Dogs Subdivision is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. Designed by RLA Architects, the home was upgraded by Mantell-Hecathorn Builders to be an ultra-efficient, comfortable and durable home that showcases the beauty of the custom finish selections of the Owner. Built as a family retreat with a large rec room, alcove nooks and extensive custom cabinetry, this home maximizes outdoor livability with an expansive patio and fire pit that are perfect for enjoying the Colorado lifestyle. The owner specified many elegant touches including a beautifully crafted floating juniper countertop in the powder room that is inlaid with turquoise accents. This home achieved a HERS score of 33 without solar panels, making it 67% more efficient than a home built to County Code. Despite the demands of the mountain climate, this beautifully crafted family home earned the ZERO Energy Ready Certification Symbol of Excellence by meeting the rigorous standards set by the Department of Energy. It is also certified under the EPA’s Indoor AirPlus program to ensure a healthier living environment.

The Art of Culinary Precision. Step into a masterclass of minimalist gourmet design, where high-performance functionality meets architectural elegance. These kitchens are meticulously crafted for the modern home, featuring a sophisticated interplay of champagne tones, deep charcoals, and rich wood textures. The space is defined by its monolithic silhouettes and bespoke floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that provides a seamless, clutter-free environment. Signature elements include integrated professional-grade appliances, high-gloss taupe finishes, and monolithic breakfast islands that serve as the heart of the home. Bathed in an intelligent layered lighting scheme—from under-cabinet task glows to hidden cove illumination—each kitchen transitions effortlessly from a high-efficiency workspace to a refined social arena. At Hashtag Design Studio, we believe your kitchen should be more than a utility; it should be a handcrafted environment built for a lifestyle of uncompromising luxury. #KitchenDesign #LuxuryKitchen #GourmetLife #InteriorDesign #HashtagDesignStudio #ModernKitchen #RajkotInteriors #GujaratDesign #ModularKitchen #ChefSpace #BespokeInteriors #DesignerKitchen #KitchenGoals #HighEndHomes #LuxuryLifestyle #InteriorArchitecture #HomeHeart #SleekDesign #KitchenInspiration #ModernSocialSpace #CulinaryLuxury

The Art of Culinary Precision. Step into a masterclass of minimalist gourmet design, where high-performance functionality meets architectural elegance. These kitchens are meticulously crafted for the modern home, featuring a sophisticated interplay of champagne tones, deep charcoals, and rich wood textures. The space is defined by its monolithic silhouettes and bespoke floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that provides a seamless, clutter-free environment. Signature elements include integrated professional-grade appliances, high-gloss taupe finishes, and monolithic breakfast islands that serve as the heart of the home. Bathed in an intelligent layered lighting scheme—from under-cabinet task glows to hidden cove illumination—each kitchen transitions effortlessly from a high-efficiency workspace to a refined social arena. At Hashtag Design Studio, we believe your kitchen should be more than a utility; it should be a handcrafted environment built for a lifestyle of uncompromising luxury. #KitchenDesign #LuxuryKitchen #GourmetLife #InteriorDesign #HashtagDesignStudio #ModernKitchen #RajkotInteriors #GujaratDesign #ModularKitchen #ChefSpace #BespokeInteriors #DesignerKitchen #KitchenGoals #HighEndHomes #LuxuryLifestyle #InteriorArchitecture #HomeHeart #SleekDesign #KitchenInspiration #ModernSocialSpace #CulinaryLuxury

This prefabricated 1,800 square foot Certified Passive House is designed and built by The Artisans Group, located in the rugged central highlands of Shaw Island, in the San Juan Islands. It is the first Certified Passive House in the San Juans, and the fourth in Washington State. The home was built for $330 per square foot, while construction costs for residential projects in the San Juan market often exceed $600 per square foot. Passive House measures did not increase this projects’ cost of construction. The clients are retired teachers, and desired a low-maintenance, cost-effective, energy-efficient house in which they could age in place; a restful shelter from clutter, stress and over-stimulation. The circular floor plan centers on the prefabricated pod. Radiating from the pod, cabinetry and a minimum of walls defines functions, with a series of sliding and concealable doors providing flexible privacy to the peripheral spaces. The interior palette consists of wind fallen light maple floors, locally made FSC certified cabinets, stainless steel hardware and neutral tiles in black, gray and white. The exterior materials are painted concrete fiberboard lap siding, Ipe wood slats and galvanized metal. The home sits in stunning contrast to its natural environment with no formal landscaping. Photo Credit: Art Gray

Through its minimal form and glare-free, flat panel LED technology, Cielo enables light to act as its expressive element and defining feature. Its finish palate also works to this end, underscoring the lamp's simple structure and exalting its light. Cielo's classic shape integrates into any environment, regardless of style, and it can be suspended individually, in a series or as a chandelier to provide warm and balanced illumination. The larger the grouping, the bolder the display. Cielo offers a full dimming range and is composed of energy efficient LEDs rated for up to 50K hours. Now available in brand new Hi-Bright model boasting 860 lumens of glare free illumination. Photo credits to Pablo Designs.

The front entry incorporates a custom pivot front door and new bluestone walls. We also designed all of the hardscape and landscape. The beams and boarding are all original.

Perched high above the award-winning Mountain Course Hole #3 in the beautiful private golf community of Glacier Club, this exquisite home is the collaborative masterpiece of Architects Jon Pomeroy & John Courter, and Master Green Builders Greg & Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn. The complexity of the design and the challenging site make this home a striking combination of art, engineering, and high-performance building science. The contemporary design elements and incorporation of warm natural wood throughout the home create a modern and clean, yet comfortable environment for the Homeowner. Meticulously placed lighting, steel and glass accentuates custom details and the unique finishes. Like all homes by M-H Builders, this home was efficiently built using advanced building science techniques, highest quality materials and has undergone significant testing by an Independent, Certified Third-Party Energy Rater. This home achieved an impressive HERS® score of 20, which makes it 80% more efficient than a standard Code-Built home.

DJK Custom Homes
Inspiration for a large transitional gray two-story concrete fiberboard exterior home remodel in Chicago

Perched high above the award-winning Mountain Course Hole #3 in the beautiful private golf community of Glacier Club, this exquisite home is the collaborative masterpiece of Architects Jon Pomeroy & John Courter, and Master Green Builders Greg & Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn. The complexity of the design and the challenging site make this home a striking combination of art, engineering, and high-performance building science. The contemporary design elements and incorporation of warm natural wood throughout the home create a modern and clean, yet comfortable environment for the Homeowner. Meticulously placed lighting, steel and glass accentuates custom details and the unique finishes. Like all homes by M-H Builders, this home was efficiently built using advanced building science techniques, highest quality materials and has undergone significant testing by an Independent, Certified Third-Party Energy Rater. This home achieved an impressive HERS® score of 20, which makes it 80% more efficient than a standard Code-Built home.

Perched high above the award-winning Mountain Course Hole #3 in the beautiful private golf community of Glacier Club, this exquisite home is the collaborative masterpiece of Architects Jon Pomeroy & John Courter, and Master Green Builders Greg & Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn. The complexity of the design and the challenging site make this home a striking combination of art, engineering, and high-performance building science. The contemporary design elements and incorporation of warm natural wood throughout the home create a modern and clean, yet comfortable environment for the Homeowner. Meticulously placed lighting, steel and glass accentuates custom details and the unique finishes. Like all homes by M-H Builders, this home was efficiently built using advanced building science techniques, highest quality materials and has undergone significant testing by an Independent, Certified Third-Party Energy Rater. This home achieved an impressive HERS® score of 20, which makes it 80% more efficient than a standard Code-Built home.

Perched high above the award-winning Mountain Course Hole #3 in the beautiful private golf community of Glacier Club, this exquisite home is the collaborative masterpiece of Architects Jon Pomeroy & John Courter, and Master Green Builders Greg & Hunter Mantell-Hecathorn. The complexity of the design and the challenging site make this home a striking combination of art, engineering, and high-performance building science. The contemporary design elements and incorporation of warm natural wood throughout the home create a modern and clean, yet comfortable environment for the Homeowner. Meticulously placed lighting, steel and glass accentuates custom details and the unique finishes. Like all homes by M-H Builders, this home was efficiently built using advanced building science techniques, highest quality materials and has undergone significant testing by an Independent, Certified Third-Party Energy Rater. This home achieved an impressive HERS® score of 20, which makes it 80% more efficient than a standard Code-Built home.

The Modern Solar Shades are perfect to one, control the amount of light that comes into your room, and two, polish your room to give it a more modern look! The solar shade fabric comes in different colors, made to fit your environment.