The proposal analyzes the site as a series of existing flows or “routes” across the landscape. The negotiation of both constructed and natural systems establishes the logic of the site plan and the orientation and organization of the new home. Conceptually, the project becomes a highly choreographed knot at the center of these routes, drawing strands in, engaging them with others, and propelling them back out again. The project’s intent is to capture and harness the physical and ephemeral sense of these latent natural movements as a way to promote in the architecture the wanderlust the surrounding landscape inspires. At heart, the client’s initial family agenda--a home as antidote to the city and basecamp for exploration--establishes the ethos and design objectives of the work. Photography - Bruce Damonte

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.

Most designers cringe when someone tells them that they want their yard to look like the botanic gardens, but in order to meet the client’s goals we had to embrace that idea. In so doing, we were able to create a space like no other with hundreds of plant varieties that flow together making a grand and exciting space.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

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.

Pasadena, CA - Complete Bathroom Addition to an Existing House For this Master Bathroom Addition to an Existing Home, we first framed out the home extension, and established a water line for Bathroom. Following the framing process, we then installed the drywall, insulation, windows and rough plumbing and rough electrical. After the room had been established, we then installed all of the tile; shower enclosure, backsplash and flooring. Upon the finishing of the tile installation, we then installed all of the sliding barn door, all fixtures, vanity, toilet, lighting and all other needed requirements per the Bathroom Addition.

Inspired by the client’s frequent trips to Martha’s Vineyard, this renovation project’s primary goal was to create a landscape complimentary of this Colonial Revival style home, reminiscent of Edgartown, Massachusetts. The front landscape was specifically designed to offer expansive views of a layered horizontal foundation planting that nestled itself around the base of the home, allowing the home itself to be the star of the show. Flowering borders that rotate with the seasons create a strong foreground while a clipped yew hedge forms the barrier needed to separate the billowing panicle hydrangeas in the background. The axial design of the herringbone front walk, punctuated by a bluestone transitional space and formal cast limestone urn, create an axis by which all other landscape elements are symmetrically mirrored. Desiring a rear entertainment space separated from the adjacent 4 car garage and recreational lawn, a series of intimate gathering spaces were designed to include Edgartown inspired architectural features that would establish the character of the garden while setting the backdrop for a robust mix of perennials, grasses, hedges and annuals. Mimicking the pattern and detail previously established on the stone base of the home, individually hand chiseled pieces of Valders veneer were used to construct the garden walls. Reclaimed street pavers border a reconfigured bluestone patio and create a garden walk that separates the garden into 4 equal quadrants; each section of the walk connecting itself to a prominent feature of the garden. The central paver transition space is backed by a concentric hedge of low growing boxwoods, delineating annual and perennial. The relocation of an arbor, in conjunction with a new evergreen hedge, creates the desired partition between relaxed conversation and open lawn activities. A brick masonry water feature with reclaimed 1916 antique cast iron tub anchors the garden and terminates the perennial adorned paver walk opposite the home’s fireplace centered within the main seating area. Whether spending an evening with friends or a quiet moment alone, this quaint garden space offers our clients the perfect ambiance to pause and reflect on life’s special treasures.

THE SETUP Sam’s client had lived in her downtown townhome home for less than a year when she decided to remodel the spacious second level. This open area consisted of three sections: a TV and fireplace zone, a sparsely furnished dining area, and a dominant central kitchen. The kitchen featured a long back wall with three segmented sections and a massive island housing the cooktop. She found the kitchen’s functionality lacking and its presence overwhelming – it dominated the entire floor, regardless of where you stood. Design objectives: - Reconfigure key kitchen elements (sink, cooktop, oven) while minimizing the kitchen’s visual impact - Optimize the kitchen’s back wall, eliminating existing dead space - Create a purposeful, well-defined dining area - Establish a distinct, comfortable living area - Reuse existing appliances and flooring - Maintain an overall modern design aesthetic THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: - Redesign the island to reduce its overwhelming presence - Create a comfortable, dedicated living room within the available space - Establish a distinct, inviting dining area within spatial constraints - Enhance kitchen functionality and style without dominating the entire floor THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions: - Sam created raised end caps for the island. This separated the kitchen from adjacent living and dining areas while focusing the kitchen’s functionality. The new sink location offers ample workspace, allowing the cook to interact with guests seated at the island. The redesigned island also provides additional storage. - For the living area, Sam opted for a functional-yet-minimalist approach. Large-format tile creates a natural stone look for the fireplace and TV wall. The recessed TV and extended fireplace shelf maintain a sleek profile. - Artistic wallpaper adds depth and texture, while the intentional lack of extensive shelving keeps the space open and distinct. - Sam transformed the dining area’s blank wall into a feature, adding a unique dry bar with counter space, open shelves, cabinet storage and a beverage fridge. - - - Wallpaper behind and above the bar contributes to the area’s personality. A mirror adds depth while pendant lights add style and visual interest. Relocating the cooktop to the back wall facilitates hidden ventilation, reducing visual clutter. Sam balanced transitional and modern elements for a contemporary yet comfortable feel. The digital control panel on the convection cooktop maintains a sleek look, while the wall oven is now at an easy-to-use height. ----- Mirrored base cabinet fronts and a paneled fridge prevent cabinetry monotony. The redesign has delighted Sam’s client, achieving her main goal of creating a more inviting and visually appealing space. Each section now has its own visual personality and functionality while harmonizing within a monochromatic palette. The entire floor offers wow-factor pop upon first glance, with each area maintaining its distinct character while contributing to a cohesive, modern aesthetic.

Pasadena, CA - Complete Bathroom Addition to an Existing House For this Master Bathroom Addition to an Existing Home, we first framed out the home extension, and established a water line for Bathroom. Following the framing process, we then installed the drywall, insulation, windows and rough plumbing and rough electrical. After the room had been established, we then installed all of the tile; shower enclosure, backsplash and flooring. Upon the finishing of the tile installation, we then installed all of the sliding barn door, all fixtures, vanity, toilet, lighting and all other needed requirements per the Bathroom Addition.

Inspired by the client’s frequent trips to Martha’s Vineyard, this renovation project’s primary goal was to create a landscape complimentary of this Colonial Revival style home, reminiscent of Edgartown, Massachusetts. The front landscape was specifically designed to offer expansive views of a layered horizontal foundation planting that nestled itself around the base of the home, allowing the home itself to be the star of the show. Flowering borders that rotate with the seasons create a strong foreground while a clipped yew hedge forms the barrier needed to separate the billowing panicle hydrangeas in the background. The axial design of the herringbone front walk, punctuated by a bluestone transitional space and formal cast limestone urn, create an axis by which all other landscape elements are symmetrically mirrored. Desiring a rear entertainment space separated from the adjacent 4 car garage and recreational lawn, a series of intimate gathering spaces were designed to include Edgartown inspired architectural features that would establish the character of the garden while setting the backdrop for a robust mix of perennials, grasses, hedges and annuals. Mimicking the pattern and detail previously established on the stone base of the home, individually hand chiseled pieces of Valders veneer were used to construct the garden walls. Reclaimed street pavers border a reconfigured bluestone patio and create a garden walk that separates the garden into 4 equal quadrants; each section of the walk connecting itself to a prominent feature of the garden. The central paver transition space is backed by a concentric hedge of low growing boxwoods, delineating annual and perennial. The relocation of an arbor, in conjunction with a new evergreen hedge, creates the desired partition between relaxed conversation and open lawn activities. A brick masonry water feature with reclaimed 1916 antique cast iron tub anchors the garden and terminates the perennial adorned paver walk opposite the home’s fireplace centered within the main seating area. Whether spending an evening with friends or a quiet moment alone, this quaint garden space offers our clients the perfect ambiance to pause and reflect on life’s special treasures.

The proposal analyzes the site as a series of existing flows or “routes” across the landscape. The negotiation of both constructed and natural systems establishes the logic of the site plan and the orientation and organization of the new home. Conceptually, the project becomes a highly choreographed knot at the center of these routes, drawing strands in, engaging them with others, and propelling them back out again. The project’s intent is to capture and harness the physical and ephemeral sense of these latent natural movements as a way to promote in the architecture the wanderlust the surrounding landscape inspires. At heart, the client’s initial family agenda--a home as antidote to the city and basecamp for exploration--establishes the ethos and design objectives of the work. Photography - Bruce Damonte

In the exclusive enclave of Emirates Hills, a magnificent villa transformation by Antonovich Group demonstrates why the firm remains Dubai's premier interior design Dubai destination for discriminating homeowners. This comprehensive redesign showcases the company's ability to harmonize classical grandeur with contemporary functionality, creating a residence of exceptional distinction. The project, encompassing over 20,000 square feet of interior space, began with a strategic architectural intervention. As a leading interior renovation company Dubai residents trust for structural reimagining, Antonovich Group removed restrictive walls and raised ceiling heights to create more dramatic spatial proportions. A new double-height foyer with a sweeping marble staircase now establishes an immediate sense of grandeur upon entry. "Villa renovations of this caliber require thinking beyond surface treatments," explains the project director. "We approach each space architecturally first, ensuring the bones of the residence support the design narrative before addressing finishes and furnishings." Throughout the villa, the material palette speaks to extraordinary attention to detail—hand-selected marble with book-matched patterns, custom wood paneling with integrated lighting elements, and metallic accents in warm champagne tones. Each transition between spaces features thoughtful continuity while maintaining distinct character for individual rooms. The living areas exemplify Antonovich Group's talent for creating environments that balance visual impact with genuine comfort. Custom furnishings, manufactured in the company's dedicated workshop, feature silhouettes that reference classical forms while maintaining contemporary proportions. This approach creates spaces that feel simultaneously timeless and current. As an established interior renovation company Dubai homeowners select for turnkey solutions, Antonovich Group managed every aspect of the project—from conceptual design through technical documentation, procurement, construction management, and final styling. This comprehensive approach ensured flawless execution of even the most intricate details. "What distinguishes truly exceptional interior design Dubai projects is consistency of vision," notes the design director. "When one entity oversees the entire process, the result possesses a harmony that cannot be achieved through fragmented implementation." For villa owners contemplating similar transformations, Antonovich Group offers unparalleled expertise in creating residences that balance spectacular visual impact with the practical requirements of daily living—spaces that impress without sacrificing comfort.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century. Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Yellow Firecracker Fern, Firecracker Plant, Coral Fountain Plant Russelia equisetiformis lutea, R. juncea lutea Scrophulariaceae Yellow Firecracker Fern, Firecracker Plant, Coral Fountain Plant Yellow Firecracker Fern, Firecracker Plant, Coral Fountain Plant Yellow Firecracker Fern, Firecracker Plant, Coral Fountain Plant The Yellow Firecracker Fern produces loads of 1" creamy yellow tubular flowers that are born in large loose clusters throughout the warmer months of the year or nearly year round where winters are mild. Excellent for Hummingbirds! Plant it with the red for a colorful show. This is a durable and long-lived, clump forming perennial that requires little additional care once well-established. The Firecracker Fern has excellent heat and sun tolerance as well as moderate drought resistance once well-established. It is even listed as being suitable for xeriscaping. Firecracker Fern is listed as a Texas A&M Outstanding Coastal Plant (see the "More info from Universities..." link below) as it has excellent resistance to soil and wind born salts, though it could use some protection from harsh, drying winds.

We've given this family room a bright, sophisticated makeover. A crisp color scheme creates an airy, casual and comfortable mood throughout the room. The natural woven wood shades and hardwood floors add warmth and contrast. The crown moulding firmly establishes the custom built-ins as part of the room and architecturally enhances the space to establish a more finished look. Custom embroidered drapery panels dress the windows while still allowing plenty of natural light into the room. Because of their versatility, a pair of swivel chairs allow the family and guests to converse as well as watch TV.

The proposal analyzes the site as a series of existing flows or “routes” across the landscape. The negotiation of both constructed and natural systems establishes the logic of the site plan and the orientation and organization of the new home. Conceptually, the project becomes a highly choreographed knot at the center of these routes, drawing strands in, engaging them with others, and propelling them back out again. The project’s intent is to capture and harness the physical and ephemeral sense of these latent natural movements as a way to promote in the architecture the wanderlust the surrounding landscape inspires. At heart, the client’s initial family agenda--a home as antidote to the city and basecamp for exploration--establishes the ethos and design objectives of the work. Photography - Bruce Damonte

Full service residential and light commercial building, remodeling and design contractor MJH Construction is committed to providing our customers with exceptional customer service, sound design, extreme craftsmanship, and the highest quality products to complete their projects and exceed expectations. Owner and Founder, Michael J. Harkowa is a graduate of New York Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture. He has over 25 years of experience in the construction industry and has been a licensed contractor since 1989. He established MJH Construction in 1993 in Brentwood, NY, providing customers with remodeling and design services. In 1997, Mike moved to Maryland to pursue new opportunities in the remodeling and new construction markets as a founding member of Needwood Construction, LLC. He held the position of Senior Member/Partner of Needwood Construction, LLC for 15 years, as well as Vice President and later, President of Needwood Homes, Inc. for 9 years. In 2012, Mike re-established MJH Construction, LLC; providing building, remodeling & design services.

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.