Reimagining an Urban Classic Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods. The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views. Architecture that Frames the View At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape. A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors. Warm Modern Interiors Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture. The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home. The Social Heart of the Home The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate. A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm. Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond. Private Retreats Above the City Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day. The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility. Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness. Spaces for Entertaining Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts. These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape. Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city. A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

The project involved a spacious 900 sq. ft. master suite addition, complemented by an expanded kitchen and dining area. What began as a simple addition evolved into a complete home remodel, including a guest bathroom and adjacent his-and-her offices. The design vision centered on clean, modern lines combined with warm, earthy tones and natural materials. In the kitchen, the absence of upper cabinets creates a minimalist feel, with sleek floating shelves illuminated by built-in LED lights. The hood was integrated into the ceiling/wall, finished with drywall and plaster to seamlessly blend into the space, making it almost invisible. A semi-transparent barn door conceals the bar and laundry area, which were thoughtfully incorporated into the kitchen design. The master suite features a spacious bathroom with custom details, including a floating vanity designed to exact specifications. The 4” thick waterfall countertop wraps around the vanity for a refined look. The mirrors, also functional as storage, feature hidden medicine cabinets built directly into the wall. The bathroom floor is lined with warm beige tiles, complemented by 3D peach-colored tiles in the shower and vanity wall, adding texture and warmth to the space. An elegant architectural light fixture, positioned between the two mirrors, enhances the overall ambiance.

The primary bathroom combines modern finishes with warm rustic details to create a serene and highly functional retreat. Soft blue-gray walls, rich wood-look flooring, and dark stained trim establish a calming palette that flows seamlessly from the adjoining primary suite. Custom cabinetry with granite countertops provides ample storage while matte black fixtures and hardware add contrast and contemporary character throughout the space. A dedicated makeup vanity with an illuminated mirror creates a practical and elegant getting-ready area, enhancing both convenience and daily functionality. The sliding barn door introduces a custom architectural feature that complements the home’s mountain-inspired aesthetic while maximizing usable floor space. The walk-in shower serves as a striking focal point with textured wave-pattern tile walls, pebble-style flooring, and a frameless glass enclosure that keeps the room feeling open and bright. A horizontal window positioned within the shower allows natural light to filter into the space while maintaining privacy and framing views of the surrounding woods. Thoughtful material selections, layered textures, and clean lines work together to create a spa-like atmosphere that feels both modern and inviting.

This staircase breathes traditional elegance into the home with classic design elements. Dark-stained treads and handrail create rich contrast against crisp white risers, newels, and vertical balusters. Wainscoting runs alongside the staircase, adding another layer of traditional detail that enhances the home's refined character. Centrally positioned, the staircase features a second-story balcony that wraps two sides above the main floor. This thoughtful design allows natural light to flow freely throughout the home while creating visual connection between levels. The result is a staircase that honors traditional craftsmanship while serving the functional needs of contemporary living. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This kitchen remodel was designed to make a statement—balancing bold character with refined craftsmanship to create a space that’s both highly functional and visually unforgettable. At the heart of the design is a striking contrast palette. Crisp white perimeter cabinetry keeps the space bright and open, while rich black lower cabinets and a substantial island ground the room with depth and sophistication. The oversized island serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering point, topped with a dramatic stone surface that adds movement and texture. The flooring plays a defining role in the overall aesthetic. A custom black-and-white patterned tile layout introduces energy and personality, transforming the kitchen into a true design centerpiece while maintaining a timeless appeal. This bold foundation is thoughtfully balanced by clean lines, classic shaker cabinetry, and elegant hardware selections. Functionality was a key driver throughout the project. The layout maximizes workflow efficiency with dedicated zones for cooking, prep, and cleanup. A professional-grade range anchors the island, while the farmhouse sink positioned beneath large windows brings in natural light and enhances the everyday experience. Custom storage solutions—including extended cabinetry, integrated dish storage, and built-in appliance areas—ensure everything has its place without compromising the clean aesthetic. Lighting was carefully layered to elevate both form and function. Statement pendant fixtures above the island add architectural interest, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination throughout the space. The result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and livable—where bold design choices meet practical everyday use. It’s a space designed not just to cook in, but to gather, entertain, and truly enjoy.

Luxury Spa-Like Bathroom Remodel | Artesa Build & Design Step into a tranquil retreat with this beautifully remodeled modern spa-inspired bathroom. Designed with natural tones and warm textures, this space combines elegance and relaxation for the ultimate sanctuary. ✨ Freestanding Soaking Tub – Positioned by a large frosted window, this tub offers both privacy and natural light, creating a peaceful space to unwind. ? Seamless Walk-In Shower – Featuring a frameless glass enclosure, built-in shower niches for storage, and gold fixtures, this shower is both functional and luxurious. ? Earthy, Neutral Tones – The floor-to-ceiling stone tile in warm beige hues enhances the natural spa aesthetic, giving the space a seamless and calming flow. ? Elegant Lighting Choices – A modern chandelier above the tub, sleek sconces by the mirror, and recessed ceiling lights provide layers of lighting to create the perfect ambiance. ? Floating Vanity with Warm Wood Finishes – This custom vanity with gold hardware brings warmth and contrast to the neutral tones, offering ample storage while maintaining a clean, modern look. This bathroom remodel embodies modern luxury and relaxation, perfect for those seeking a spa-like escape in their own home. ? Save this for inspiration & contact us to bring your dream bathroom to life!

Positioned as the centerpiece of this home, this grand white oak staircase anchors the space. Warm white oak treads provide a natural foundation, complemented by intricate iron balusters that add traditional elegance. The combination of organic wood warmth and detailed metalwork creates a timeless aesthetic that suits the home's luxurious character. The staircase connects levels while serving as a refined focal point that enhances the overall ambiance. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Upon entering, you're greeted by the breathtaking beauty of black and white marble floor tiles that not only pave the way to relaxation but also climb gracefully halfway up the walls, creating a harmonious blend of modernity and timeless grace. This bold choice in flooring sets a dramatic tone, perfectly complementing the minimalist color palette and enhancing the overall contemporary feel of the space. The heart of this bathroom is the massive walk-in shower, designed for the ultimate showering experience. Encased in glass, it offers an unobstructed view of the intricate marble work that continues within, providing a seamless aesthetic flow. Equipped with the latest in shower technology, including rainfall showerheads and body jets, it promises a spa-like experience, making every shower a luxurious escape. Positioned to capture the beauty of the outdoors, the huge area dedicated to the freestanding bathtub is a highlight of this renovation. Bathed in natural light, it offers an unspoiled view outside, ensuring privacy while inviting the tranquility of nature into this serene retreat. This meticulously chosen spot for the bathtub not only maximizes the bathing experience but also serves as a focal point, blending effortlessly with the contemporary theme. **Designed for Relaxation and Style** Every element in this bathroom renovation has been carefully selected to create a cohesive and inviting space. From the strategically placed lighting that accentuates the luxurious textures and surfaces, to the sleek bathroom fixtures that add a touch of modernity, this bathroom is a masterpiece of design. The thoughtful layout maximizes space, ensuring that each area is both functional and visually appealing. **A Contemporary Sanctuary** This bathroom renovation is more than just a space—it's a contemporary sanctuary designed for relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration. Whether it's starting the day with an invigorating shower or ending it with a peaceful soak in the freestanding bathtub, this bathroom offers an unparalleled experience in luxury living. Ideal for those who cherish modern elegance and sophisticated design, this bathroom is a testament to the beauty of contemporary renovation, promising an oasis of comfort and style in your home.

Sandhurst Bulli — Modern Coastal Living with Breathtaking Views Perched in the heart of Bulli on the NSW South Coast, Sandhurst Bulli is a stunning architectural home that redefines luxury coastal living. Designed and built by CKS Projects, this residence captures the essence of the Illawarra lifestyle—bold, contemporary, and connected to nature. Every element of the home was crafted to embrace its incredible position between the ocean and the escarpment. With polished concrete floors, warm timber feature ceilings, and expansive glass walls, the home opens seamlessly to panoramic coastal and mountain views. Built over three levels, the design thoughtfully accommodates a growing family, balancing private retreats with open communal spaces. The northeast orientation maximises natural light, while the flowing indoor–outdoor connection enhances the sense of space and calm. From the bespoke detailing to the high-end finishes, Sandhurst Bulli embodies the CKS Projects commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless coastal design.

The Home The Cahill exudes traditional charm with horizontal siding, barn shutters and rocking chair front porch, while the family-focused floorplan offers plenty of room for a growing family with multiple entertaining spaces. At centerstage, an open-concept design connects the kitchen with large a island to the adjoining dining and family rooms. A corner fireplace in the family room adds appeal without diminishing the sense of space, while well-placed windows allow for plenty of natural light. Excellent use of space continues upstairs with the owner’s retreat separated from two secondary bedrooms by a large walk-in closet and conveniently positioned utility room. An upstairs retreat offers another informal family gathering area with the flexibility to create distinct spaces like a playroom, media room and more. Ideal for growing families, The Cahill also boasts an unfinished basement, prime for a fifth bedroom, third full bathroom and spacious game room. The Builder Founded in 1976, David Weekley Homes is the nation’s second largest privately-held home builder. Headquartered in Houston, TX, the company operates in 20 cities, including three communities in Colorado Springs. ​ David Weekley Homes was the first builder in the United States to be awarded the Triple Crown of American Home Building, an honor which includes “America’s Best Builder,” “National Housing Quality Award” and “National Builder of the Year.” Nationwide, the company has received more than 1,300 product design and service awards, a reflection of the company’s commitment to Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives for more than 100,000 homebuyers. By utilizing buyer demographic information and incorporating the latest trends, Kathy Andrews Interiors (KAI) serves as the creative force behind the builder’s model homes where buyers can see and touch the quality craftsmanship. KAI also selects finishes like flooring and furnishings to create one-of-a-kind homes for buyers! The Interior Design The Cahill’s façade sets the tone for the interior color palette with traditional charm and neutral hues. The cozy feel begins with popular soft brown, laminate, wood-like flooring throughout the main living areas that offer a contrast to off-white walls. Soft gray kitchen cabinets are highlighted by white, brick-laid tile for visual interest against the sleek, quartz countertops. Warm wooden tables and furnishings with clean lines create an inviting space with hints of a trendy farmhouse design. This cozy feeling continues on the upper and lower levels with warm, neutral, marled carpet to soften the spaces. A real memory point can be found in the Super Shower of the owner’s retreat bathroom with white tile in a diagonal diamond pattern, lending an air of cleanliness and tranquility to the space. The pure, clean perfection of this home provides a blank canvas for homeowner’s artwork and accents.

Although less common than projects from our other product lines, a Sunspace Design pool enclosure is one of the most visually impressive products we offer. This custom pool enclosure was constructed on a beautiful four acre parcel in Carlisle, Massachusetts. It is the third major project Sunspace Design has designed and constructed on this property. We had previously designed and built an orangery as a dining area off the kitchen in the main house. Our use of a mahogany wood frame and insulated glass ceiling became a focal point and ultimately a beloved space for the owners and their children to enjoy. This positive experience led to an ongoing relationship with Sunspace. We were called in some years later as the clients were considering building an indoor swimming pool on their property. They wanted to include wood and glass in the ceiling in the same fashion as the orangery we had completed for them years earlier. Working closely with the clients, their structural engineer, and their mechanical engineer, we developed the elevations and glass roof system, steel superstructure, and a very sophisticated environment control system to properly heat, cool, and regulate humidity within the enclosure. Further enhancements included a full bath, laundry area, and a sitting area adjacent to the pool complete with a fireplace and wall-mounted television. The magnificent interior finishes included a bluestone floor. We were especially happy to deliver this project to the client, and we believe that many years of enjoyment will be had by their friends and family in this new space.

This staircase breathes traditional elegance into the home with classic design elements. Dark-stained treads and handrail create rich contrast against crisp white risers, newels, and vertical balusters. Wainscoting runs alongside the staircase, adding another layer of traditional detail that enhances the home's refined character. Centrally positioned, the staircase features a second-story balcony that wraps two sides above the main floor. This thoughtful design allows natural light to flow freely throughout the home while creating visual connection between levels. The result is a staircase that honors traditional craftsmanship while serving the functional needs of contemporary living. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

These clients wanted a good deal more than an outdoor pool and patio; they wanted a wide range of resort-style amenities to enhance their already existing majestic views of Long Island Sound. One such amenity was a vinyl-lined vanishing edge, or "infinity" pool that brings the view of the shoreline right up to their backyard patio. In addition, we included a spectacular custom spa, also perfectly positioned to enjoy the "vanishing edge" views. (Sunset photo of this project follows.) www.deckandpatio.com

Oakley Home Builders is a custom home builder and remodeling company in the Chicago suburbs that has integrated distinctive home designs into surrounding communities, neighborhoods and coveted residential landscapes. Positioned as a flourishing Chicago western suburbs home builder, Oakley Home Builders demonstrates a passionate pursuit of detail-rich, value-driven design and efficient construction that provides homebuyers with a masterfully planned and executed living environment. Whether building on your site or one of our many available lots, Oakley Home Builders is recognized among Chicago western suburbs home builders for its excellent build-to-suit program. Guiding homebuyers through a simple, step-by-step process, we enhance the building experience by providing practical advice, flexible accommodations, and educational insight. But while we are mainly a home builder in Chicago suburbs, we also build luxurious beach homes in Naples, FL and along the shores of Lake Michigan in Indiana and Michigan's Harbor Country. In addition we serve as an expert suburban Chicago remodeling company catering to the communities of Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, LaGrange, Western Springs, Elmhurst, and other west suburban locations.

THE SETUP Originally an empty front living room, this space offered a blank canvas for transformation. Alicia’s client — a financial wealth management professional facing a career shift towards more home-based work — was excited to make it her new office. Capitalizing on the space’s abundant natural light, perfect for on-camera meetings, Alicia helped convert the area into a primary workspace. Design Objectives: - Create a functional and professional home office Cultivate an aesthetic that is both comfortable and feminine - Optimize the office for the space’s ideal lighting and provide an appealing background for virtual meetings Design Challenges: - Transforming a large, undefined space into a structured, functional office - Selecting a color palette that enhances focus and professionalism, balanced with a feminine touch - Strategically placing the desk to maximize functionality and aesthetics within the large area Incorporating solutions for effective real-time stock trade tracking and analog task management THE RENEWED SPACE Design Solutions: Workspace Configuration: Centered the desk to utilize indirect light, ideal for video calls, while providing a commanding view of the office, the outdoors and the entrance. A floor-installed power outlet under the desk ensures a clean, cord-free setup. Aesthetic and Palette: Anchored by a striking wallpaper chosen by the client, Alicia developed a soft, neutral color scheme that complements the room’s black window frames and maintains a feminine touch. Digital Integration: Included a screen dedicated to monitoring daily stock trends, positioned for easy viewing. The energy efficient monitor doubles as artwork when not in use, seamlessly blending functionality with style. Organizational Features: Implemented dual large bulletin boards for task and project tracking, integrating them aesthetically with custom cabinetry and interesting, yet subdued, fabric backing. Our client is thrilled with her new home office, which not only meets her professional needs but also adds comfort and style to her daily work routine. The space is highly functional for both solo work and client appointments, providing a perfect blend of business professionalism and personal comfort. It embodies the essence of a #girlboss, combining a professional atmosphere with feminine elegance, making every workday enjoyable and productive.

Sandhurst Bulli — Modern Coastal Living with Breathtaking Views Perched in the heart of Bulli on the NSW South Coast, Sandhurst Bulli is a stunning architectural home that redefines luxury coastal living. Designed and built by CKS Projects, this residence captures the essence of the Illawarra lifestyle—bold, contemporary, and connected to nature. Every element of the home was crafted to embrace its incredible position between the ocean and the escarpment. With polished concrete floors, warm timber feature ceilings, and expansive glass walls, the home opens seamlessly to panoramic coastal and mountain views. Built over three levels, the design thoughtfully accommodates a growing family, balancing private retreats with open communal spaces. The northeast orientation maximises natural light, while the flowing indoor–outdoor connection enhances the sense of space and calm. From the bespoke detailing to the high-end finishes, Sandhurst Bulli embodies the CKS Projects commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless coastal design.

This bathroom remodel blends timeless design with carefully considered details to create a space that feels both refined and highly functional. A clean, neutral foundation is paired with bold accents—most notably the deep blue custom cabinetry, which adds depth and contrast while maintaining a classic appeal. The double vanity offers ample storage and symmetry, complemented by warm brass fixtures and soft lighting that create a balanced, inviting atmosphere. Large mirrors and layered lighting enhance brightness and openness throughout the space. A standout feature is the custom shower, finished with textured tile that adds visual interest without overwhelming the design. The freestanding tub, positioned near expansive windows, brings in natural light and creates a calm, spa-like focal point. Every element—from layout to material selection—was chosen to ensure long-term durability, comfort, and everyday usability. The result is a bathroom that feels elevated, cohesive, and built to stand the test of time.

Palmer Windows Features Beveled exterior master frame enhances aesthetics Dedicated pocket sill design with triple weather stripping prevents air and water infiltration Sliding window operating sash removes easily from the inside for convenient cleaning Integral contour pull rail provides rigidity and ease of operation Fusion welded frame and sash construction creates superior strength Multi-chambered, slim-line extrusion design for maximum strength and viewing area Brass roller system allows ease of operation Positive interlock system, structural metal reinforcement, and dual action cam locks at the meeting rail provide resistance to outside elements and forced entry. Neat® naturally clean glass. It harnesses the sun’s UV rays to loosen dirt so water can rinse it away, leaving windows virtually spotless. Your windows will stay cleaner longer and will clean easier! Photo by Jeremy Sharrock

This kitchen remodel was designed to make a statement—balancing bold character with refined craftsmanship to create a space that’s both highly functional and visually unforgettable. At the heart of the design is a striking contrast palette. Crisp white perimeter cabinetry keeps the space bright and open, while rich black lower cabinets and a substantial island ground the room with depth and sophistication. The oversized island serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering point, topped with a dramatic stone surface that adds movement and texture. The flooring plays a defining role in the overall aesthetic. A custom black-and-white patterned tile layout introduces energy and personality, transforming the kitchen into a true design centerpiece while maintaining a timeless appeal. This bold foundation is thoughtfully balanced by clean lines, classic shaker cabinetry, and elegant hardware selections. Functionality was a key driver throughout the project. The layout maximizes workflow efficiency with dedicated zones for cooking, prep, and cleanup. A professional-grade range anchors the island, while the farmhouse sink positioned beneath large windows brings in natural light and enhances the everyday experience. Custom storage solutions—including extended cabinetry, integrated dish storage, and built-in appliance areas—ensure everything has its place without compromising the clean aesthetic. Lighting was carefully layered to elevate both form and function. Statement pendant fixtures above the island add architectural interest, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination throughout the space. The result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and livable—where bold design choices meet practical everyday use. It’s a space designed not just to cook in, but to gather, entertain, and truly enjoy.