Search results for "Enhanced context" in Home Design Ideas

This modern farmhouse landscape project in Cheney, Washington was designed to create a cohesive, durable outdoor environment that complements the architecture while responding to Inland Northwest climate conditions.
Phase One included full site grading, irrigation installation, topsoil placement, and hydroseed to establish a healthy, resilient lawn. Planting areas were thoughtfully designed to provide structure, seasonal interest, and long-term performance while maintaining defensible space principles for improved wildfire resilience. Existing Ponderosa pines were preserved to retain the character and scale of the property, and hardscape materials were selected for durability and low maintenance.
Concrete curbing defines clean transitions between lawn and planting beds, while strategically placed landscape boulders anchor the design within the site’s natural context. Low voltage landscape lighting was integrated to enhance safety, highlight architectural elements, and extend usability into the evening hours.
This project was intentionally designed with future phases in mind, including a detached shop, expanded driveway improvements, additional deciduous tree plantings along the drive, and expanded planting areas. By establishing a strong foundational layout in Phase One, the property can evolve over time while maintaining design cohesion.
The result is a refined farmhouse landscape that feels intentional, regionally appropriate, and built to perform through wind, snow, summer heat, and seasonal change.

Stone Mosaic Tile floors, marble countertops and backsplash and white painted raised panel cabinets in this luxurious master bathroom with freestanding soaking tub in Greenwood Village Colorado.

Photo by Jody Dole
This charming farmhouse sits atop a grassy hill overlooking a serene Connecticut River Estuary. The new design reformulated the first floor plan making it much more functional and visually exciting. It encompassed the reorganization of multiple spaces including the Mudroom, Kitchen, Dining Room, Family Room, Sun Room, Laundry, Bathroom, and Master Closet. The design also added, deleted, and relocated windows and French doors to greatly enhance exterior views, draw in more natural light, and seamlessly upgrade the articulation of exterior elevations. Improvements to the plumbing and mechanical systems were also made. The overall feeling is both sophisticated and yet very much down to earth.
John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation.
We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.
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PEACOCK FANTASY - Custom Designed Peacock Wall Mural in brilliant colors. Notice how it has just the right amount of color | Have a custom mosaic idea? We can help, with our brilliant Italian-trained mosaicists and easy-to-install tiled masterpieces. Worldwide shipping available on the complete range of quality handcrafted marble & glass mosaic products. For inquires and more info, contact us: http://mecartworks.com

Rain water moves within the trough of perforated stainless steel and river rock. Water collects and drips like water through a large strainer, diffusing flow that ultimately collects at the base of the forest escarpment and into an existing bog. Photo Credit :Chipper Hatter

Photo by Jody Dole
This charming farmhouse sits atop a grassy hill overlooking a serene Connecticut River Estuary. The new design reformulated the first floor plan making it much more functional and visually exciting. It encompassed the reorganization of multiple spaces including the Mudroom, Kitchen, Dining Room, Family Room, Sun Room, Laundry, Bathroom, and Master Closet. The design also added, deleted, and relocated windows and French doors to greatly enhance exterior views, draw in more natural light, and seamlessly upgrade the articulation of exterior elevations. Improvements to the plumbing and mechanical systems were also made. The overall feeling is both sophisticated and yet very much down to earth.
John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation.
We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

Photo by Jody Dole
This charming farmhouse sits atop a grassy hill overlooking a serene Connecticut River Estuary. The new design reformulated the first floor plan making it much more functional and visually exciting. It encompassed the reorganization of multiple spaces including the Mudroom, Kitchen, Dining Room, Family Room, Sun Room, Laundry, Bathroom, and Master Closet. The design also added, deleted, and relocated windows and French doors to greatly enhance exterior views, draw in more natural light, and seamlessly upgrade the articulation of exterior elevations. Improvements to the plumbing and mechanical systems were also made. The overall feeling is both sophisticated and yet very much down to earth.
John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation.
We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

Photography by Caryn B. Davis
Located in the Cornfield Point area of Old Saybrook along Long Island Sound, this project brought a classic, yet forgotten beach house back to life. Through a little detective work and some creative ingenuity, we restored and enhanced the exterior to it’s former glory and transformed the interior to a highly efficient and functional home all the while uplifting its quaint cottage charm. On the exterior, we recreated a wonderful, airy front porch with cozy bench seats that look out to the water. The white cedar shingle siding is pre-bleached with a subtle flair at the bottom and a delicate break at mid-elevation. The asphalt shingles are not only beautifully matched with the siding, but offer superior reflective qualities to dissipate the heat of the summer sun. On the interior, we joined the front seasonal porch with the family room to form a larger, open living and dining space with paneled walls and ceilings anchored by the original round stone fireplace. In the rear, we carefully crafted a galley kitchen and laundry space with an adjacent first floor master suite. The diminutive house and property posed multiple practical and regulatory challenges which were overcome by a strong team effort, due diligence, and a commitment to the process.
John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation.
We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

The Azul
Why The Azul…
Azul’s spiritual meaning is said to help people "unravel the knots that prevent us from experiencing love". In this context, azul means "celestial blue", which is said to be the color of the ocean of love.
The Azul epitomizes modern luxury and architectural sophistication, offering calming views of the river leading to celestial blue gulf waters. With over 4,500 square feet of living space, it features expansive open areas ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends. The elegant entrance is highlighted by a grand staircase leading to massive 12-foot iron doors.
Inside, you'll be captivated by soaring ceilings and expansive sliding glass doors that overlook an elevated pool and serene river views. The contemporary design invites natural light from every direction, featuring a two-story great room and a chef’s kitchen complete with a butler’s pantry designed for entertaining.
The primary bedroom suite provides a romantic setting with floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for enjoying the sunrise. The outdoor living space is vast, with several conversational areas, including a cabana equipped with an outdoor kitchen and bar overlooking the pool and river. The custom-designed pool offers a resort-like feel, enhancing the Southwest Florida lifestyle.
All three guest bedrooms include en-suite private bathrooms, and there's a guest loft for relaxation. The third-floor balcony offers unobstructed views of the river, perfect for morning sunrises or evening sunsets. Purposefully designed, the ground floor provides over 2,200 square feet of garage and storage space.

The Azul
Why The Azul…
Azul’s spiritual meaning is said to help people "unravel the knots that prevent us from experiencing love". In this context, azul means "celestial blue", which is said to be the color of the ocean of love.
The Azul epitomizes modern luxury and architectural sophistication, offering calming views of the river leading to celestial blue gulf waters. With over 4,500 square feet of living space, it features expansive open areas ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends. The elegant entrance is highlighted by a grand staircase leading to massive 12-foot iron doors.
Inside, you'll be captivated by soaring ceilings and expansive sliding glass doors that overlook an elevated pool and serene river views. The contemporary design invites natural light from every direction, featuring a two-story great room and a chef’s kitchen complete with a butler’s pantry designed for entertaining.
The primary bedroom suite provides a romantic setting with floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for enjoying the sunrise. The outdoor living space is vast, with several conversational areas, including a cabana equipped with an outdoor kitchen and bar overlooking the pool and river. The custom-designed pool offers a resort-like feel, enhancing the Southwest Florida lifestyle.
All three guest bedrooms include en-suite private bathrooms, and there's a guest loft for relaxation. The third-floor balcony offers unobstructed views of the river, perfect for morning sunrises or evening sunsets. Purposefully designed, the ground floor provides over 2,200 square feet of garage and storage space.

Photography by Caryn B. Davis
Located in the Cornfield Point area of Old Saybrook along Long Island Sound, this project brought a classic, yet forgotten beach house back to life. Through a little detective work and some creative ingenuity, we restored and enhanced the exterior to it’s former glory and transformed the interior to a highly efficient and functional home all the while uplifting its quaint cottage charm. On the exterior, we recreated a wonderful, airy front porch with cozy bench seats that look out to the water. The white cedar shingle siding is pre-bleached with a subtle flair at the bottom and a delicate break at mid-elevation. The asphalt shingles are not only beautifully matched with the siding, but offer superior reflective qualities to dissipate the heat of the summer sun. On the interior, we joined the front seasonal porch with the family room to form a larger, open living and dining space with paneled walls and ceilings anchored by the original round stone fireplace. In the rear, we carefully crafted a galley kitchen and laundry space with an adjacent first floor master suite. The diminutive house and property posed multiple practical and regulatory challenges which were overcome by a strong team effort, due diligence, and a commitment to the process.
John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation.
We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

The ground floor volumes wrapped in an elongated hand-fired brick, emphasizing the horizontality of the architecture that lays solidly on the land.
(Photography by: Matthew Millman)

Photography by Caryn B. Davis
Located in the Cornfield Point area of Old Saybrook along Long Island Sound, this project brought a classic, yet forgotten beach house back to life. Through a little detective work and some creative ingenuity, we restored and enhanced the exterior to it’s former glory and transformed the interior to a highly efficient and functional home all the while uplifting its quaint cottage charm. On the exterior, we recreated a wonderful, airy front porch with cozy bench seats that look out to the water. The white cedar shingle siding is pre-bleached with a subtle flair at the bottom and a delicate break at mid-elevation. The asphalt shingles are not only beautifully matched with the siding, but offer superior reflective qualities to dissipate the heat of the summer sun. On the interior, we joined the front seasonal porch with the family room to form a larger, open living and dining space with paneled walls and ceilings anchored by the original round stone fireplace. In the rear, we carefully crafted a galley kitchen and laundry space with an adjacent first floor master suite. The diminutive house and property posed multiple practical and regulatory challenges which were overcome by a strong team effort, due diligence, and a commitment to the process.
John R. Schroeder, AIA is a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning. We have over 30 years experience with projects of all types, sizes, and levels of complexity. Because we love what we do, we approach our work with enthusiasm and dedication. We are committed to the highest level of design and service on each and every project. We engage our clients in positive and rewarding collaborations. We strive to exceed expectations through our attention to detail, our understanding of the “big picture”, and our ability to effectively manage a team of design professionals, industry representatives, and building contractors. We carefully analyze budgets and project objectives to assist clients with wise fund allocation.
We continually monitor and research advances in technology, materials, and construction methods, both sustainable and otherwise, to provide a responsible, well-suited, and cost effective product. Our design solutions are highly functional using both innovative and traditional approaches. Our aesthetic style is flexible and open, blending cues from client desires, building function, site context, and material properties, making each project unique, personalized, and enduring.

Custom leaded glass panel for bedroom window
Glass: plain clear glass and beveled diamonds
Lead: 3/16" rounded
Size: 1 @ ~18" x 24" x 1/4" thick
*This product was commissioned and made-to-order. If you're interested in this design, let's chat! We can recreate it for you to your specified dimensions, or we can discuss any design changes you'd like, as well as additional options for materials (glass texture, color, lead size, etc.). Reach out to hello@legacyglass.com to get started!

Originally, the exterior of the Napa ranch residence was a standard knocked down stucco finish. We covered over the entire exterior of the house with a natural plaster product that has been made in Italy for centuries, known as Rialto or Vero. This product is a combination of slaked lime mixed with 60% reconstituted crushed marble dust. Quarried from the legendary Carrara marble mines. The finish itself is a vertically combed striated texture embedded into the plaster. While it cures, a transparent group of patinas are applied to the stone-like plaster substance to create a look of an aged villa.

Waterview Times Two
It is all about view here where river meets sea. The “new home” (actually an addition) is well-positioned on the site. Views are framed in traditional double hung windows with a six lites over one lite configuration. The waterside elevations are clad in a variety of multi-leaf sliding glass doors for view and access to the outdoor decks. For these glass panels, a simple “top row” of lites fits the bill. Here they seem to say, “I’m a traditionalist, but I’m walking a modern edge along the shore to promote better view, light and connection to the water.”
The views require no detailing or enhancements, but the house does. The roofline is unmistakably traditional. It keeps the roof line low, a must for a structure designed to conform with the FEMA prescribed BFE (Base Flood Elevation.) The exterior comes to life thanks to generous trim at the rake, fascia, soffits and frieze boards of the traditional gambrel roof. A skin of cedar shingles at 5” exposure reinforces the site-specific design. As you look around everywhere on this vacation peninsula, you’ll notice the consistency of weathered shingled exteriors. Its “dormered” second floor is tucked nicely in the roofline to also make sure it fits within the context of the neighboring older homes.
Because the coastal FEMA regulations pushed our home higher from the surrounding ground and safely from the impending storm surges, expansive decks extend along the water side. The decks are our de facto landscape and outdoor rooms. They are positioned vertically two stair risers below the finished first floor. The drop in deck heights preserves interior views over furniture and guests from inside the home. Steel cable railings provide a see-through safety “guard” as required by the building codes.
The open plan on the interior provides the perpetual connection to the water. View dominates and directs the floor plan. Symmetrical window groupings will organize the first-floor plan. There will be plenty of space to handle the guests, but its mission is to provide good order for day to day living for just the homeowners themselves. Beds on the upper level are positioned with view in mind too. Waking up to the sun reflecting off the water is opportunity not to pass up.
With the dust and noise finally behind us, we begin our plan for phase two. More Updates coming soon!

Dresser done in Maison Blanche Vintage Chalk Paint
Inspiration for a mid-sized coastal guest bedroom remodel in Grand Rapids
Inspiration for a mid-sized coastal guest bedroom remodel in Grand Rapids

This 30" x 24" abstract acrylic painting has been done in shades of cobalt blue, sky blue, citrine, chartreuse, white, soft sea green, and royal blue. Finished in gloss varnish to protect the piece from dust and UV light for years to come. Can be hung vertically or horizontally. Gorgeous vivid rich colors in a great contemporary style.
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