This staircase pairs neutrally stained wood with clear glass panels for a refined, contemporary look. Glass balustrades create transparent sightlines that reinforce the open, unobstructed feel throughout multiple levels. The geometric lines of the treads establish a clean modern rhythm, while the cohesive stain across treads, stringers, newels, and handrail unifies the entire structure. Open risers on the upper flights further enhance the light-filled atmosphere, allowing natural light to flow freely through the vertical space. The result is a design that feels both timeless and fresh, with subtle nods to midcentury modern aesthetic. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

The site descends from the street and is privileged with dynamic natural views toward a creek below and beyond. To incorporate the existing landscape into the daily life of the residents, the house steps down to the natural topography. A continuous and jogging retaining wall from outside to inside embeds the structure below natural grade at the front with flush transitions at its rear facade. All indoor spaces open up to a central courtyard which terraces down to the tree canopy, creating a readily visible and occupiable transitional space between man-made and nature. The courtyard scheme is simplified by two wings representing common and private zones - connected by a glass dining “bridge." This transparent volume also visually connects the front yard to the courtyard, clearing for the prospect view, while maintaining a subdued street presence. The staircase acts as a vertical “knuckle,” mediating shifting wing angles while contrasting the predominant horizontality of the house. Crips materiality and detailing, deep roof overhangs, and the one-and-half story wall at the rear further enhance the connection between outdoors and indoors, providing nuanced natural lighting throughout and a meaningful framed procession through the property. Photography Charles Davis Smith

This full-scale gut renovation reimagined the entire home with a balance of luxury and practicality. We installed new black-framed windows throughout, integrated advanced blind and security systems, and incorporated custom glasswork to enhance light and visual continuity. Comprehensive electrical upgrades supported a layered lighting plan — from statement chandeliers to recessed and task lighting — while thoughtful paint finishes and detailed millwork tied the home together with a cohesive, high-end feel. The kitchen was fully remodeled around the family’s needs, and the bathrooms were completely redesigned, including plumbing modifications to accommodate both showers and freestanding tub options. Custom stone slabs were used throughout for a modern, luxurious aesthetic, and we added purpose-built spaces like a fully designed pantry and bespoke cabinetry to ensure every area performs as beautifully as it looks. While the clients were away during construction, we maintained full transparency through regular schedule and photo updates via our project management platforms.

Staircase – Custom Detailed Vertical Connection | Second Floor Addition, Toronto This staircase is a key architectural feature of the home, thoughtfully designed as part of the second floor addition to create a seamless and inviting connection between levels. Rather than feeling enclosed or purely functional, the stair was intentionally planned to remain open, light-filled, and visually integrated with the surrounding spaces. The design showcases a custom railing system, combining glass panels with a continuous oak handrail and black metal detailing, striking a balance between warmth and modern contrast. The transparency of the glass allows natural light to flow freely through the stairwell, enhancing sightlines and preventing the vertical transition from feeling closed off. From a construction standpoint, the staircase required precise structural coordination, framing alignment, and finish integration to ensure safety, code compliance, and long-term durability—especially critical when tying a new second storey into an existing home. As part of the full-home transformation, this staircase reflects Cedarstone Group Inc.’s design-build philosophy: every transition space is an opportunity for thoughtful design, craftsmanship, and cohesion, not an afterthought.

This staircase pairs neutrally stained wood with clear glass panels for a refined, contemporary look. Glass balustrades create transparent sightlines that reinforce the open, unobstructed feel throughout multiple levels. The geometric lines of the treads establish a clean modern rhythm, while the cohesive stain across treads, stringers, newels, and handrail unifies the entire structure. Open risers on the upper flights further enhance the light-filled atmosphere, allowing natural light to flow freely through the vertical space. The result is a design that feels both timeless and fresh, with subtle nods to midcentury modern aesthetic. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

These glass railings celebrate light, enhance space, and maximize transparency. Beautiful stainless steel components create a modern look in this coastal home.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

This contemporary staircase features a frameless glass balustrade that creates an invisible barrier, allowing natural light to flow freely into the living area while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines. The glass panels are held by a grooved top handrail and wide bottom stringer, creating a sleek, modern profile. Thick squared-off oak treads and matching risers provide warmth and substance against the transparency of the glass. The combination of natural wood and frameless glass enhances the home's modern aesthetic, proving that the right balustrade choice can transform how a space feels and functions. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

This staircase pairs neutrally stained wood with clear glass panels for a refined, contemporary look. Glass balustrades create transparent sightlines that reinforce the open, unobstructed feel throughout multiple levels. The geometric lines of the treads establish a clean modern rhythm, while the cohesive stain across treads, stringers, newels, and handrail unifies the entire structure. Open risers on the upper flights further enhance the light-filled atmosphere, allowing natural light to flow freely through the vertical space. The result is a design that feels both timeless and fresh, with subtle nods to midcentury modern aesthetic. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

These glass railings celebrate light, enhance space, and maximize transparency. Beautiful stainless steel components create a modern look in this coastal home.

This full-scale gut renovation reimagined the entire home with a balance of luxury and practicality. We installed new black-framed windows throughout, integrated advanced blind and security systems, and incorporated custom glasswork to enhance light and visual continuity. Comprehensive electrical upgrades supported a layered lighting plan — from statement chandeliers to recessed and task lighting — while thoughtful paint finishes and detailed millwork tied the home together with a cohesive, high-end feel. The kitchen was fully remodeled around the family’s needs, and the bathrooms were completely redesigned, including plumbing modifications to accommodate both showers and freestanding tub options. Custom stone slabs were used throughout for a modern, luxurious aesthetic, and we added purpose-built spaces like a fully designed pantry and bespoke cabinetry to ensure every area performs as beautifully as it looks. While the clients were away during construction, we maintained full transparency through regular schedule and photo updates via our project management platforms.

The footprint of the kitchen was not drastically altered; however it was fully redesigned to seamlessly integrate with the dining and living areas. Walls were removed that framed the existing layout and separated the kitchen from the adjacent rooms. The side of the cabinetry facing the dining room and living room now showcase a dramatic bar and counter seating area clad in steel panels and a 7” thick walnut countertop with hidden storage. The cabinets are white with a twist: rift cut white oak with a semi-transparent paint, allowing the natural color to slightly bleed through thus enhancing its rustic nature. Grey quartz countertops echo the abundant natural rock formations on the property further connecting the kitchen to the home and gorgeous exterior surroundings. Unique details include the steel cladding behind the cooktop and sink to protect the wood countertop, reusing steel for the sleek custom kitchen table support, and a steel backsplash adjacent to the refrigerator. The dining room walls are custom painted in a color-on-color birch tree motif and live edge wood slabs were chosen for both the kitchen and dining tabletops. General lighting was thoughtfully considered and incorporates small aperture, square trimmed LED recessed fixtures throughout. A unique statement chandelier punctuates the dining room table. Photo: Peter Krupenye

Are you in search of a modern kitchen design that combines functionality and style seamlessly? Look no further! Our latest project boasts a perfect fusion of warm wood textures and sleek grey lacquer details. Here’s what you can expect: Design Highlights: Wood and Grey Lacquer Harmony: This modern kitchen design harmoniously blends the warmth of wood with the sophistication of dark grey lacquer. This combination enhances both the coziness and contemporary aesthetics of the space. Glass and Metal Cabinets: The kitchen cabinets feature transparent glass and polished metal surfaces. This not only adds a touch of modern elegance but also allows you to showcase your kitchenware. Custom Display Bar: A standout feature of this kitchen project is the custom-designed display bar. It provides a stylish space for entertaining guests or celebrating special moments. Functionality and Comfort: Beyond aesthetics, this kitchen project prioritizes functionality. Ample countertop space, modern kitchen appliances, and storage options are thoughtfully integrated to make your daily life easier. This modern kitchen design aims to create a space that is both aesthetically stunning and practical. The perfect balance between wood and grey lacquer creates an inviting atmosphere, while the specially crafted display bar adds an element of fun and sophistication to your kitchen experience. Let’s bring style and functionality together with this modern kitchen design. For more information and customization options, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We would be delighted to help you bring the perfect kitchen design to life.

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 Belmont's primary bathroom exudes a sense of sophistication and tranquility with its carefully curated design elements. Gray tiles adorn the walls and floors, creating a sleek and modern backdrop for the space. The glass shower enclosure adds a touch of transparency, allowing natural light to permeate and accentuate the beauty of the shower area. A focal point of luxury, a large freestanding tub stands gracefully in the room, inviting you to indulge in moments of relaxation and serenity. Positioned near large windows, the bathroom is bathed in natural light, enhancing the ambiance and providing a connection to the outdoors. The combination of the gray tiles, glass shower enclosure, and the presence of a freestanding tub creates a harmonious blend of contemporary aesthetics and comfort, making the Belmont's primary bathroom a true retreat within the home.

Kastrop Group is a leading team of residential architects in Redwood City, known for delivering innovative, functional, and client-focused home designs. With over 30 years of experience in the Bay Area, we specialize in custom homes, additions, renovations, and sustainable design solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each homeowner. Our architectural process is collaborative and transparent, ensuring that your vision is at the center of every decision. Whether you're planning a modern rebuild, a classic remodel, or expanding your existing home, our expert team provides creative solutions that balance aesthetics, budget, and practicality. As trusted residential architects in Redwood City, we’re committed to enhancing the quality of life through thoughtful, personalized design. At Kastrop Group, your home is more than just a structure—it’s a reflection of your lifestyle, values, and dreams. Let us help you bring your ideas to life with precision, creativity, and care.

The divider wall display cabinets have reeded glass doors on both sides. The reflectivity and transparency of the glass further enhances the connection between the kitchen and breakfast area.

This contemporary staircase features a frameless glass balustrade that creates an invisible barrier, allowing natural light to flow freely into the living area while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines. The glass panels are held by a grooved top handrail and wide bottom stringer, creating a sleek, modern profile. Thick squared-off oak treads and matching risers provide warmth and substance against the transparency of the glass. The combination of natural wood and frameless glass enhances the home's modern aesthetic, proving that the right balustrade choice can transform how a space feels and functions. 1976-2026 © Century Stair Company