Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices By design, this laneway residence is an intelligently-planned, small-scale replication of the main, single-family house. Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths honour homes heritage as a family farm. Cedar hedges provide separation between main home’s backyard and laneway’s private patio for relaxing or al fresco dining/barbecuing. A non-compromise space for anyone who loves outdoor dining/entertaining. Main-floor offers flexible living space for diverse range of lifestyles. Residents enjoy an upper-level master-suite plus a lower-level flex-space (guest bedroom, home-office, artist studio) off the main living area. The best of all worlds in a compact/affordable space. Kitchen features full-sized range and refrigerator. Undermount sink (with window above) create unanticipated, much-appreciated natural light penetration. Sliding door provides access to mechanical room without compromising cooking-space in compact kitchen. Great-room is a comfortable, cozy, flexible space. Lots of room for a dining-room table as well. Feels like a single-family home just in a more compact, easy care format. Bathroom with compact shower on main floor: easily accessible for overnight guests or roommates. Upper-floor master-suite includes private east-facing balcony--perfect for morning coffee!--and urban savvy ensuite with dramatic, green-glass subway-tile shower/soaker-tub surround (with window above). Full-size laundry tucked into upper-floor vaulted laundry supports residents' active lifestyle. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water.

Tassel fern. Photo by Jay Sifford.
Inspiration for an eclectic landscaping in Charlotte.

Breezy Coastal-Inspired Hearth Room Sustainable, natural, wholly engaging, and a showcase for their cultural pieces and art was the concept for this home. The couple wanted to use sustainable and environmentally friendly products throughout their home as much as possible. Being from both California and Florida, they wanted a coastal influence that didn’t look contrived or over-stylized in a Midwestern home. Also, they desired a serene, peaceful space where all senses were engaged. Incorporating the Feng Shui elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water in color, texture and product choice was used in this design. A problem area with the original room was a large, blocky oak fireplace. The top half was removed and the hearth was painted white, opening up the space considerably. The back wall was painted a serene blue as an accent. An overall neutral palette of taupe, blues and grey balanced the wood tones found in the flooring and teak accents the couple acquired on their travels. We recovered their existing love seat with taupe diamond-stripe cotton in a slipcover style, adding to the casual atmosphere of a beach house. Organic cotton, hand-blocked pillows with red cherry blossoms provide a pop of color to the seating. A swivel rocker gives flexibility to multiple focal points and conversation. The 100% hemp rug has a turquoise oversized damask print and is a plush anchor to the hearth setting. A long grey-washed rattan bench serves as a cocktail table and woven Roman shades provide needed contrast to the back wall. A distressed, reclaimed bench sits below bold art as a bright accent area to an overall neutral space. The centerpiece of the room is a large cerulean blue buffet with fretwork & glass doors. A large Buddha head serves as a meditative focal point with Asian-inspired art and lighting. Julie Austin Photography

Breezy Coastal-Inspired Hearth Room Sustainable, natural, wholly engaging, and a showcase for their cultural pieces and art was the concept for this home. The couple wanted to use sustainable and environmentally friendly products throughout their home as much as possible. Being from both California and Florida, they wanted a coastal influence that didn’t look contrived or over-stylized in a Midwestern home. Also, they desired a serene, peaceful space where all senses were engaged. Incorporating the Feng Shui elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water in color, texture and product choice was used in this design. A problem area with the original room was a large, blocky oak fireplace. The top half was removed and the hearth was painted white, opening up the space considerably. The back wall was painted a serene blue as an accent. An overall neutral palette of taupe, blues and grey balanced the wood tones found in the flooring and teak accents the couple acquired on their travels. We recovered their existing love seat with taupe diamond-stripe cotton in a slipcover style, adding to the casual atmosphere of a beach house. Organic cotton, hand-blocked pillows with red cherry blossoms provide a pop of color to the seating. A swivel rocker gives flexibility to multiple focal points and conversation. The 100% hemp rug has a turquoise oversized damask print and is a plush anchor to the hearth setting. A long grey-washed rattan bench serves as a cocktail table and woven Roman shades provide needed contrast to the back wall. A distressed, reclaimed bench sits below bold art as a bright accent area to an overall neutral space. The centerpiece of the room is a large cerulean blue buffet with fretwork & glass doors. A large Buddha head serves as a meditative focal point with Asian-inspired art and lighting. Julie Austin Photography

Breezy Coastal-Inspired Hearth Room Sustainable, natural, wholly engaging, and a showcase for their cultural pieces and art was the concept for this home. The couple wanted to use sustainable and environmentally friendly products throughout their home as much as possible. Being from both California and Florida, they wanted a coastal influence that didn’t look contrived or over-stylized in a Midwestern home. Also, they desired a serene, peaceful space where all senses were engaged. Incorporating the Feng Shui elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water in color, texture and product choice was used in this design. A problem area with the original room was a large, blocky oak fireplace. The top half was removed and the hearth was painted white, opening up the space considerably. The back wall was painted a serene blue as an accent. An overall neutral palette of taupe, blues and grey balanced the wood tones found in the flooring and teak accents the couple acquired on their travels. We recovered their existing love seat with taupe diamond-stripe cotton in a slipcover style, adding to the casual atmosphere of a beach house. Organic cotton, hand-blocked pillows with red cherry blossoms provide a pop of color to the seating. A swivel rocker gives flexibility to multiple focal points and conversation. The 100% hemp rug has a turquoise oversized damask print and is a plush anchor to the hearth setting. A long grey-washed rattan bench serves as a cocktail table and woven Roman shades provide needed contrast to the back wall. A distressed, reclaimed bench sits below bold art as a bright accent area to an overall neutral space. The centerpiece of the room is a large cerulean blue buffet with fretwork & glass doors. A large Buddha head serves as a meditative focal point with Asian-inspired art and lighting. Julie Austin Photography

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Exterior: architectural character, curb appeal and integration of the project into its setting Interior: creative and innovative use of space including architectural detail and form Functionality of floor plan Environmental considerations (energy, comfort, health) Construction details/techniques to achieve industry best practices Natural-stone façades, mullioned windows, and aggregate sidewalks/paths pay homage to site’s heritage as historic family farm replaced by socially-aware, urban-chic residence. Columns framing front-door appear to be decorative, but actually provided cross-venting. Basement includes 3-bedroom/2-bath legal suite with its own hot-water heating and mechanical system. Easily converted to a strata unit in the future if desired. Mortgage-helper for now, retirement planning for the future. Natural-stone siding (3x-3-inch square) is labour intensive to install but meets clients’ desire for high-end, castle-inspired look. Extra-wide baseboards and wainscot throughout balance high-profile crown-molding. Entertainment style kitchen is ready to greet guests with expansive island featuring casual eating-bar on two sides, plenty of space to spread out a buffet of appies when guests come calling, and funky Olympic-inspired, five-ring chandeliers. After all, you know it, the best parties still end up in the kitchen. Two-tone grey-on-white colour palette on gloss cabinets is eye-catching combination of modern minimalism and timeless tradition...and easy-to-clean. 3x3-foot marble-look porcelain floor-tile throughout main-floor adds modern elegance Master suite with cleverly-designed, generously-sized sleeping/bathing space, full-width east-facing balcony away from busy traffic, plus an efficiently-designed walk-in closet. Ensuite includes a two-person shower with warm, soft-touch porcelain tile (dramatic in dark texture with vertical racing-stripe of glass-mosaic tile), both rain-head and handheld shower options, and body sprays. Plenty of room for a retreat for one or an efficient rush out the door for two. W/D intelligently located on bedroom-level: convenient for every generation. Soundproof windows. Engineered, white-oak hardwood flooring throughout. Built to PassiveHaus standards (certification pending), high-level environmental-savvy features include state-of-the-art Lifebreath HRV (removes bacteria from interior air), radiant in-floor heating, and on-demand, tankless hot-water. EV-charger for two vehicles.

Introducing a quaint and elegant countryside farmhouse, where rustic allure meets modern sophistication. Step into a world of charm with locally milled white oak floors and vaulted ceilings, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. The exposed rafters and skylights infuse the space with natural light, illuminating its simple yet delightful beauty. Indulge in the comfort of the master bath and closet, complete with heated floors and a luxurious freestanding soaker tub, offering a relaxing escape at the end of each day. This charming farmhouse has thought of everything for your convenience and pleasure. Enjoy the rejuvenating experience of an infrared sauna, the practicality of a scullery kitchen, and the care and consideration for your four-legged friends with a custom-built dog wash. Embrace sustainable living with solar panels and a backup battery system, ensuring you are always prepared and environmentally conscious. Modern technology is thoughtfully integrated into the home, with whole home smart lighting and audio systems for seamless control and a touch of modernity. Designed by the visionary team at ID.ology Interiors & Design and furnished by Atelier Maison & Co., this farmhouse radiates timeless elegance, making it a sanctuary where classic elements blend effortlessly with contemporary comforts. Welcome to your picturesque farmhouse haven - a place where comfort, style, and sustainability unite in perfect harmony to create an enchanting retreat.

In July 2017, Belz was contacted by the property owner to create a home that met their specific requirements. This included the following items: ​ An open concept/loft design that takes advantage of the views to the south and west. Separate areas within this open plan are defined by furnishings. Master Suite on the main level. Bathroom with views. Large shower with rain head and wall shower system. Large walk-in closet with built-ins. Study/office area with an abundance of built-in bookshelves. Study to be “separate” but somehow connected to main living area. 2 additional bedrooms, each with their own bath. Extra wide garage that can fit 2 cars side x side with the doors open and extra deep with room for a workbench. Mud room/laundry room that could include a shower. Radiant in-floor heat system and air conditioning. Outdoor living space/courtyard with firepit, water feature, pizza oven, and sunken jetted tub. Environmentally responsible design alternatives, such as material choices and building orientation, together with other considerations based on requirements and aesthetics were used to develop a design that was consistent with the owner’s vision. Belz and the owner worked together to choose all materials and finishes and colors. The green stucco picked up on the native grasses on the property. The stone was chosen to contrast with the green stucco and “plant” the house to the ground. The owner wanted to take advantage of the views as much as possible. Instead of siting the house along north/south/east/west axes, Belz canted the floorplan to a southwest axis for better “head-on” views from the home. The owner requested an interesting roof/ceiling. Thus, Belz chose an arched ceiling which she found more embracing than an angled vaulted or shed roof.

Large farmhouse black two-story mixed siding exterior home idea in San Francisco

Chad Mellon
Example of a transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen design in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, gray backsplash, an island, white countertops and paneled appliances