Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Cool, open-planned remodel of condominium kitchen. IKEA cabinets and economic design enabled this frugal remodel which features custom designed eating area over peninsula island.

Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Spectrum Construction & Development, based out of Roxbury Twp., New Jersey is the recipient of the 2016 Awards of Excellence presented by the Metropolitan Builders & Contractors Association of New Jersey in the Custom Single-Family Home Category ($1,000,000 - $2,000,000) The homeowners moved to Morris County, New Jersey to be closer to their grown children and their families. They found a mid-century style home on a beautiful tree-lined street less than a mile away from their children's homes. Although the location was ideal and the corner lot perfectly situated for the homeowners, it was in disrepair and did not offer them the space, design features and finishes they wanted. Spectrum Construction arranged for the original home to be deconstructed with any salvageable material sold to the public for reuse or re-purposing. The custom 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home that Spectrum Construction designed and built in its place combines country charm with modern elegance. This new home incorporates many unique features including the “drive through” two-car garage that allows the homeowners access to the converging streets. The massive first-floor master bedroom suite consists of a marble surround fireplace, 2 sizeable walk-in-closets as well as his and her luxurious master bathrooms. Two home offices provide the homeowners with ample room to take care of business. An elevator was installed to enable the homeowners and aging guests to easily and safely access the second floor. Abundant storage areas throughout the home, including the cavernous full basement, offer plenty of space to stow extra belongings. The second story was designed with the homeowners’ grandchildren in mind. The additional bedrooms, playroom and upstairs den make room for both daytime visits and overnight stays. Space for entertaining adult guests was also considered. The first floor includes a spacious great room with floor to ceiling stone fireplace which opens to a covered, screened-in back porch with a second stone fireplace. The stylish kitchen, containing two counter seating areas and an eat-in nook, along with the formal dining room give the homeowners plenty of room to accommodate large gatherings.

The kitchen is defined by a large double sided plastered fireplace. The cabinets are all horizontal grain flat panel with light upper cabinets and dark lower cabinets. The Quartzite countertops provide beauty and function. Appliances are all Thermador including the 48" range and 60" fridge. A large butler's pantry comes off the kitchen enabling all appliances to stay off the main kitchen counters. Floating wood ceilings also clearly define the space. A 5' built-in turtle aquarium was also put in at the request of the buyer. -Mike Larson Estate Photography

Now client's daughter’s room, this room had been functioning as a second guest bedroom and was ready for a makeover, starting with the wall covering. We were able to keep the existing drapes, and repurpose the giant mirror by painting the frame; thus creating a savings in the budget and enabling the client to choose to indulge in a new high-quality chair, a gorgeous, unique, high-end fabric for the ottoman, by Katie Ridder — and the biggest investment, the custom-designed and hand-built bunk bed by Randall Wilson and Sons. The rose-colored hand-knotted oriental rug, sourced via PAK is another high-quality piece that had originally been purchased for the daughter’s nursery and transitioned easily to her new room. A lot of love and time went into designing that custom bed. Especially the detailed railing, the drawer handles, incorporating the bookshelf into the headboard, and the choosing the contrasting wood for the ladder. The bed will hold its own long into teenage-hood — because sleepovers. Photo credit: Mo Saito

Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Built on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, this residence appears to emerge from the landscape. The project brief called for an artful house that promotes wellness and outdoor living. Rugged beauty and four-season adventure drew the owners to the area but presented challenges, including wildfire risk. The site needed a durable shelter that responsibly integrates with the environment. Clad in sand-colored stucco, the house will intentionally be obscured by grasses and junipers over time. Outdoor spaces are layered to match the undulating topography. A steel superstructure enables an ultra-thin roof with overhangs for passive solar design that withstand gale-force winds and heavy snow loads. A crushed-granite courtyard offers refuge on windy days. This space is enclosed by operable Cor-Ten panels that rotate open to reveal dune views or close for a cloistered experience. The courtyard is further defined by a deconstructed roof with an aperture that frames sky views. Expansive glazing and porcelain flooring unites interior and exterior, evoking a sense of inhabiting an infinity house. A screen porch, concealed by louvers, is a contemporary interpretation of a time-honored lake house vernacular. ​Layers of light and an edited palette of materials unify the interior and evoke a laid-back feeling of beach towns. On both levels, bronze glass walls artfully define rooms while preserving views.

Looking for revitalized perspective in their own backyard, our clients chose to stay in their neighborhood and renovate bottom to top, enlisting Moore Design Group to reimagine and transform their average home into an inspiring and restorative sanctuary. Stairs and unwanted soffits were removed, walls reconfigured, fireplaces and their surrounds re-invented, and architectural elements redefined. Beautiful hardwoods were featured in custom designed cabinetry and niches. Wide plank European oak replaced carpet, newly fabricated porcelain countertops were installed throughout, and sculptural light fixtures were hung in cavernous spaces, highlighting new outlooks. Our client’s preference for simple yet sophisticated style enabled us to set the tone by creating an elegant backdrop for a new collection of fine art and sculpture, which quietly takes center stage. More than just a surface renovation, our scope ensured that our clients’ environmental sensitivities were the driving force behind all decisions to reduce and eliminate known allergens and protect indoor air quality. Zero-VOC paints were used, a nontoxic, water-based finish was applied to natural wood cabinetry and floors, and custom upholstery was made from fire-retardant-free foams and FSC-certified woods, eliminating harmful chemicals from the home without sacrificing a trace of design.

Julian Hodges - Featured Project of the Month by Truitt & White This month featured project brings you beautifully crafted gates and entryways from local craftsman Julian Hodges. For over 35 years, Mr. Hodges has been designing and crafting custom wooden gates in Berkeley and the greater Bay Area. His projects mainly feature old growth, vertical grained redwood or western red cedar which is air or kiln dried. The gates are fully mortised and tenoned (male / female joints) and a very powerful epoxy is used to glue the parts together. Wherever a floating panel rides in a dado, drainage is provided in the form of several holes that are out of sight that allow any rain water to be ushered out at the bottom of the gate enabling the gate to dry itself rather than staying damp which otherwise could lead to long term decomposition of the wood. Adding to the unique feel of each gate, Julian creates his own custom hardware from heavy gauge steel, which also provides a pleasing solid sound as it operates. All gates are then finished in a penetrating oil seal which optimizes the longevity and good appearance of the gates. For more information on Julian Hodges' work, visit www.julianhodges.com.

Photos by: Ledyard Homes This is a new custom luxury home built by Ledyard Homes in Utah – This is the Juniper model at the Lookout Ridge Promontory community features Panda’s thermally broken technology in their 12′ high doors. These custom thermally broken luxury doors were needed at this palatial rural home and Ledyard Homes selected Panda Windows and Doors to supply their thermally broken TS.19 in order for the future residents to fully enjoy their outdoor atmosphere from the comfort of their living space. While closed the thermal brake technology engineered into the TS.19 produces an air tight seal which enables the home to save energy and keep the great room interior space comfortable in both winter and summer and during harsh weather conditions. In addition to the energy and thermal benefits the doors also greatly reduce outdoor sound producing a serene environment inside the living space.

Looking for revitalized perspective in their own backyard, our clients chose to stay in their neighborhood and renovate bottom to top, enlisting Moore Design Group to reimagine and transform their average home into an inspiring and restorative sanctuary. Stairs and unwanted soffits were removed, walls reconfigured, fireplaces and their surrounds re-invented, and architectural elements redefined. Beautiful hardwoods were featured in custom designed cabinetry and niches. Wide plank European oak replaced carpet, newly fabricated porcelain countertops were installed throughout, and sculptural light fixtures were hung in cavernous spaces, highlighting new outlooks. Our client’s preference for simple yet sophisticated style enabled us to set the tone by creating an elegant backdrop for a new collection of fine art and sculpture, which quietly takes center stage. More than just a surface renovation, our scope ensured that our clients’ environmental sensitivities were the driving force behind all decisions to reduce and eliminate known allergens and protect indoor air quality. Zero-VOC paints were used, a nontoxic, water-based finish was applied to natural wood cabinetry and floors, and custom upholstery was made from fire-retardant-free foams and FSC-certified woods, eliminating harmful chemicals from the home without sacrificing a trace of design.

Julian Hodges - Featured Project of the Month by Truitt & White This month featured project brings you beautifully crafted gates and entryways from local craftsman Julian Hodges. For over 35 years, Mr. Hodges has been designing and crafting custom wooden gates in Berkeley and the greater Bay Area. His projects mainly feature old growth, vertical grained redwood or western red cedar which is air or kiln dried. The gates are fully mortised and tenoned (male / female joints) and a very powerful epoxy is used to glue the parts together. Wherever a floating panel rides in a dado, drainage is provided in the form of several holes that are out of sight that allow any rain water to be ushered out at the bottom of the gate enabling the gate to dry itself rather than staying damp which otherwise could lead to long term decomposition of the wood. Adding to the unique feel of each gate, Julian creates his own custom hardware from heavy gauge steel, which also provides a pleasing solid sound as it operates. All gates are then finished in a penetrating oil seal which optimizes the longevity and good appearance of the gates. For more information on Julian Hodges' work, visit www.julianhodges.com.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Jamul, this small rural home exudes the quiet charm and tranquility of the surrounding California landscape. Designed as a peaceful retreat from the day-to-day, it reflects its owner’s deep connection to nature and her beloved menagerie of horses, chickens, sheep, ducks, and dogs. Warm, rich materials and handcrafted details define the home’s aesthetic and bring a sense of enduring comfort. The kitchen features handcrafted Hallmark cabinetry in warm-stained alder paired with ivory-painted finishes, creating a timeless and inviting palette. Quartz countertops offer easy maintenance, their golden veining harmonizing with buttery yellow Pratt & Larson handcrafted tile, where delicate bees and dragonfly relief provide a playful nod to the farm’s natural beauty. Copper accents add artisanal warmth, including a Stoll copper range hood with a custom patina finish and copper tin inlay at the island. These same materials and craftsmanship extend to the home’s fireplace surrounds. The warm-stained alder continues here, enriched with traditional dentil molding just below the mantel. Surrounding the fireboxes, artisan ceramic tile appears in a deep, rich burgundy hue, while small glass mosaic introduces a subtle interplay of soft yellows, rich browns, and creams to weave the home’s cohesive palette together. Every finish, tone, and texture — from cabinetry to fireplace — speaks a unified language of warmth and handcrafted detail. Functionality and lifestyle are equally prioritized. Now, upon entering through the new Dutch door — a favorite perch for the dogs — guests are greeted by an open, welcoming space. By removing a wall and raising a dropped ceiling, the vaulted plank and beam detailing now spans the entire space, creating a light filled, open plan that naturally connects the kitchen and living room. New high-end appliances and thoughtful features like a pull-out pantry enable the homeowner to cook and entertain with ease. Given the home’s rural setting, fire-resistant materials and durable wood-look tile flooring were selected to ensure long-term resilience, accommodating the daily rhythms of animals and outdoor living while maintaining the refined yet cozy aesthetic of a true country haven. Ultimately, this project captures the spirit of California’s rolling landscape — warm, enduring, and full of heart — creating a home that is both a sanctuary and a celebration of the life lived within and beyond its walls.

Full Bathroom Remodel with Modern Elegance and Functionality BMR Belmax Remodeling recently completed an exceptional full bathroom remodel, transforming a dated space into a luxurious retreat that combines style, function, and elegance. This Richboro-based project showcases our team’s dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and efficiency, with the entire remodel completed in just 12 days. From large-format tiles to a new walk-in shower and freestanding bathtub, every detail was carefully selected and executed to meet the client’s vision and lifestyle. Project Details: Elegant Modern Touches The remodel started with a complete demolition of the existing bathroom, allowing us to design and rebuild the space from scratch. This fresh start enabled our designers to create a seamless flow between key features, maximizing both space and functionality. Large-format tiles were chosen for the floors and walls, creating a sleek, sophisticated look while minimizing grout lines for easier maintenance. The neutral tones of the tiles bring warmth and elegance, setting a relaxing ambiance for the entire bathroom. Walk-In Shower and Freestanding Bathtub One of the primary highlights of this remodel is the new walk-in shower, designed with clean lines and glass doors that enhance the spacious feel of the bathroom. Equipped with a modern rain showerhead and stylish matte black fixtures, the shower provides a luxurious, spa-like experience. Adjacent to the shower, a freestanding bathtub adds a touch of modern sophistication. Its elegant design serves as a focal point, offering a perfect spot for relaxation after a long day, enhanced by the striking black finish on all fixtures. Custom Vanity and Lighting The client wanted both style and storage in their vanity, so we installed a custom-built vanity with ample drawer space and a sleek countertop. The vanity’s design complements the bathroom’s overall aesthetic, blending seamlessly with the large-format tiles and matte black fixtures. Above the vanity, new lighting fixtures were installed to provide soft, even illumination, perfect for daily routines. The strategically placed lights not only add to the bathroom’s functionality but also enhance the room’s calming, inviting atmosphere. Updated Plumbing Fixtures and High-Quality Materials Throughout the remodel, our team used only high-quality materials, ensuring the bathroom is built to last. The updated plumbing fixtures, finished in matte black, add a contemporary edge to the space. This finish not only complements the neutral tones of the large-format tiles but also contributes a modern sophistication to the bathroom. Every element, from the large tiles to the smallest fixtures, was selected for its durability, function, and style. A Smooth and Efficient Remodel One of the most remarkable aspects of this project was its timeline—completed in just 12 days. BMR Belmax Remodeling’s skilled team managed each phase meticulously, from demolition to final touches, ensuring a seamless process. The client was thrilled with both the efficiency and the high-quality finish, expressing delight in the transformation of their bathroom into a functional, beautiful retreat. In this project, BMR Belmax Remodeling delivered a bathroom that is not only visually stunning but also optimized for comfort and convenience. Our commitment to quality and client satisfaction is evident in every detail, making this Richboro bathroom remodel a proud addition to our portfolio.

A fully custom sauna with ambient LED lighting and Wi-Fi–enabled controls that manage temperature, lighting, speakers, and ventilation with ease.
Minimalist wood wall basement photo in Milwaukee