In a space with extensive windows, part of the challenge was to establish opportunities for the art to be seen, as well as design a series of private and semi-private spaces.

Every design decision for this Caribbean beach residence was guided by the desire to maximize the views of the property’s breathtaking natural surroundings. To connect the spaces and reveal the views from every vantage point, the team reconfigured the layout to create vistas, and installed window film to reduce solar heat gain. These modifications increased efficiencies, reused 90% of the interior envelope and did not impact the exterior structure of the building. In addition to providing incredible views, opening up the plan allows cross ventilation, maximizing the use of ocean breezes to cool the interior. The result is an effortless flow and maximization of space. Throughout the interior, dark materials express the concept of respite in the shade, and emphasize the sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. Millwork crafted by local artisans from local materials establishes hierarchy – providing a clear understanding of the layout – and filters light to create privacy and drama. Screens help define the spaces and create suspense. Varying screen opacities serve specific functions: nearly opaque screens build suspense, translucent screens provide privacy, and reflective screens – as seen in the kitchen ceiling – create mystery in the core where light and views are challenged. Referencing the seaside location, the baseboards create a sense of being in a deep shallow. The 16” tall baseboards create a pool effect, engaging the walls with Cradle to Cradle certified Mosa tile flooring. The irregular height also conceals power and data cabling. The resulting space is a contemporary oasis that offers a high-level of comfort and functionality. Anne Rausch Photography

Cove House is a contemporary shoreline sanctuary in the lake region of New Hampshire. The wooded property, which includes several accessory outbuildings and an existing guest cottage, makes up a private micro-cove. The new modern house and existing traditional cottage turn both toward the lake and to each other. Thoughtful siting and landscape architecture establish a connective flow between the two residences, with a notched stone courtyard in the house inviting visitors to go back and forth. Inspired by the craftsmanship of an antique mahogany powerboat, Cove House pursues architectural quality and beauty at the highest level. The design uses materiality, texture, and daylight to balance livability and artistry. The main entrance leads through a slot-canyon-like hall where a sequence of monumental granite walls reveals a glorious, light-filled living room. A steel moment frame spanning two levels imparts unobstructed panoramic views of the lake. The magnetism of the New Hampshire waterfront is equalized by a coordinated series of openings, which attune daylight throughout the interior. Large sliding glass doors and windows draw light through the courtyard and into the home’s core – a bright and lofty kitchen. Below the kitchen, a walkout patio illuminates a refined wine-tasting room­­. Near the front entry, a gracious granite and steel stair delivers daylight to each level though open risers and glass balustrades. Skylights draw light from above and cast grazing shadows against the textured tile walls of the upper bathrooms. “We aimed to create a “beautiful reward” and an environment that our clients will enjoy for the rest of their lives.” – Marcus Gleysteen

Part of the Hearth Residence whole-home renovation, this entry and stair hall was redesigned to create a brighter and more connected arrival experience. Warm oak stair treads, slender black metal spindles, and a restrained material palette establish a calm architectural backdrop while maintaining visual continuity throughout the home. The redesigned circulation spaces play an important role in the overall interior architecture strategy, improving sight lines, natural light distribution, and the flow between the home’s main living areas and second floor.

This waterfront home was conceived by the architects as a series of identically scaled, simply articulated gable-roofed elements linked by flat-roofed connectors. From the entrance driveway, the house appears almost as a village of individual granite residences. These two elements – gables and flat roofs – complement each other, establishing a dynamic of light and dark, smooth and rough, grounded and floating. It was critical to the ultimate success of this building that it be well suited and connected to tits content so that it seems like it could not be anywhere else. The home was positioned to capture this view and, in a way, imbue it with power. We responded to this directive by incorporating large expanses of windows that allow one to literally look through the house from the front yard to the sailboats bobbing on the water at the rear. A short bridge passes over an exterior passage connecting front and rear.

Front-yard landscape and gate work for a Banbury-York Mills property completed in 2024. The scope set custom iron gates between stone piers, established a formal hedge line along the perimeter, and rebuilt the driveway and walkways to read as a single composition from curb to entry. Mature trees on the lot guided the planting plan.

Cove House is a contemporary shoreline sanctuary in the lake region of New Hampshire. The wooded property, which includes several accessory outbuildings and an existing guest cottage, makes up a private micro-cove. The new modern house and existing traditional cottage turn both toward the lake and to each other. Thoughtful siting and landscape architecture establish a connective flow between the two residences, with a notched stone courtyard in the house inviting visitors to go back and forth. Inspired by the craftsmanship of an antique mahogany powerboat, Cove House pursues architectural quality and beauty at the highest level. The design uses materiality, texture, and daylight to balance livability and artistry. The main entrance leads through a slot-canyon-like hall where a sequence of monumental granite walls reveals a glorious, light-filled living room. A steel moment frame spanning two levels imparts unobstructed panoramic views of the lake. The magnetism of the New Hampshire waterfront is equalized by a coordinated series of openings, which attune daylight throughout the interior. Large sliding glass doors and windows draw light through the courtyard and into the home’s core – a bright and lofty kitchen. Below the kitchen, a walkout patio illuminates a refined wine-tasting room­­. Near the front entry, a gracious granite and steel stair delivers daylight to each level though open risers and glass balustrades. Skylights draw light from above and cast grazing shadows against the textured tile walls of the upper bathrooms. “We aimed to create a “beautiful reward” and an environment that our clients will enjoy for the rest of their lives.” – Marcus Gleysteen

Trendy dining room photo in Orange County

Centered within the dining room, the substantial pedestal table establishes a sculptural presence while eliminating hard edges and intrusive legs for a softer, more fluid aesthetic. Above, a striking LED brass pendant introduces a sense of modern geometry, creating an artistic focal point that anchors the space. Textured navy wallpaper with a subtle stone effect accents the wall with depth and sophistication, seamlessly coordinating with the custom area rug and tailored swivel chairs. A thoughtfully integrated pass-through between the kitchen and dining room enhances functionality for entertaining while reinforcing the home’s open, connected flow.

The fire pit seating area is a lovely focal point with a large, modern rectangular fire table from Brown Jordan in charcoal grey finish. The modern seating has a woven rope back and arms from Madegoods with a vibrant pattern upholstery. This outdoor living space is both sophisticated and inviting.

Designed and built by Geshtalt Homes, this luxury Colleyville, Texas renovation reimagines the heart of the home through a sophisticated open-concept great room that seamlessly connects the kitchen and family living areas. The design embraces warmth, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, creating a space that is equally suited for everyday living and entertaining. At the center of the kitchen, a substantial island with waterfall-edge quartzite countertops serves as both a visual focal point and a functional gathering space. Rich, dark-stained custom cabinetry establishes a sense of depth and refinement, while select cabinet elevations feature decorative custom grilles backed with French antique mirror, introducing texture, character, and subtle reflection throughout the room. Beneath the cabinetry, dark hand-scraped wood flooring grounds the space and complements the home's sophisticated palette. The adjoining family room is anchored by a dramatic linear fireplace framed with a floor-to-ceiling stone surround, creating a striking architectural feature that draws the eye upward and reinforces the room's scale. Custom built-in wine storage on either side of the fireplace adds both function and visual balance while enhancing the home's entertainment-focused design. Thoughtfully planned and meticulously executed, this multi-room renovation reflects Geshtalt Homes' commitment to creating distinctive living environments that blend luxury materials, architectural detail, and everyday comfort into a cohesive and highly personalized home.

This primary bedroom at Tessera Sarasota was staged by iStage Homes to create a serene and sophisticated retreat overlooking the waterfront. A plush upholstered bed, layered neutral textiles, and soft coastal accents establish a calm atmosphere, while large sliding doors invite natural light and views from the private terrace. The staging highlights comfort, scale, and elegance—helping buyers envision restful luxury living in this downtown Sarasota residence.

Perched on a ridge at the edge of a wooded expanse, this mid-century modern home was designed to embrace both the intimate connection to the forest and the expansive valley views beyond. The site—carefully chosen from the family’s 52-acre homestead in western Wisconsin—balances privacy and openness, placing the home at the meeting point of dense trees and rolling fields. The approach winds through the forest, offering only glimpses of the structure. Upon arrival, the parking area is subtly positioned below the main level, reinforcing the sense of discovery. As one ascends the entry walk, the house unfolds, revealing a dramatic view through the two-story living space, anchored by a brick fireplace that extends from floor to ceiling. The asymmetrical roofline lifts upward, accentuating the openness and maximizing natural light. Inside, warm materials define the interiors. Wood ceilings and floors, complemented by concrete-look tile, establish a natural, grounded aesthetic. Black wood-clad beams provide scale and structure, subtly delineating spaces within the open-plan layout. A wood lattice screen partially conceals the dining area from the foyer, offering both openness and privacy. The kitchen—designed for gathering—features a large island, a dedicated baking station, and a breakfast counter that catches morning light while serving as a pass-through to the adjacent patio. Two textured glass sliding panels allow the kitchen to be closed off when needed. Just beyond, a hidden gem: the home’s personal Tiki room, complete with a vintage mug collection and a full bar. To the east, the central fireplace marks the transition to more intimate spaces. A wide stair, integrated with the hearth, leads to the lower level, while a library with a corner window creates a quiet retreat, perfect for reading and taking in the valley beyond. The primary suite extends off this wing, featuring a spa-like bath with a textured tile walk-in shower, a soaking tub positioned for dramatic views, and a private balcony overlooking the landscape. The lower level is designed for family gatherings and extended stays. A secondary fireplace, echoing the materials of the main level, anchors a cozy living area with an adjacent kitchenette. Additional bedrooms and baths provide ample accommodations, while a hidden playhouse under the stair and a dedicated bunk room add playful touches for visiting grandchildren. The home is a balance of openness and enclosure, modernity and warmth—designed not only as a retreat but as a multigenerational gathering place, deeply connected to the land.

Perched on a ridge at the edge of a wooded expanse, this mid-century modern home was designed to embrace both the intimate connection to the forest and the expansive valley views beyond. The site—carefully chosen from the family’s 52-acre homestead in western Wisconsin—balances privacy and openness, placing the home at the meeting point of dense trees and rolling fields. The approach winds through the forest, offering only glimpses of the structure. Upon arrival, the parking area is subtly positioned below the main level, reinforcing the sense of discovery. As one ascends the entry walk, the house unfolds, revealing a dramatic view through the two-story living space, anchored by a brick fireplace that extends from floor to ceiling. The asymmetrical roofline lifts upward, accentuating the openness and maximizing natural light. Inside, warm materials define the interiors. Wood ceilings and floors, complemented by concrete-look tile, establish a natural, grounded aesthetic. Black wood-clad beams provide scale and structure, subtly delineating spaces within the open-plan layout. A wood lattice screen partially conceals the dining area from the foyer, offering both openness and privacy. The kitchen—designed for gathering—features a large island, a dedicated baking station, and a breakfast counter that catches morning light while serving as a pass-through to the adjacent patio. Two textured glass sliding panels allow the kitchen to be closed off when needed. Just beyond, a hidden gem: the home’s personal Tiki room, complete with a vintage mug collection and a full bar. To the east, the central fireplace marks the transition to more intimate spaces. A wide stair, integrated with the hearth, leads to the lower level, while a library with a corner window creates a quiet retreat, perfect for reading and taking in the valley beyond. The primary suite extends off this wing, featuring a spa-like bath with a textured tile walk-in shower, a soaking tub positioned for dramatic views, and a private balcony overlooking the landscape. The lower level is designed for family gatherings and extended stays. A secondary fireplace, echoing the materials of the main level, anchors a cozy living area with an adjacent kitchenette. Additional bedrooms and baths provide ample accommodations, while a hidden playhouse under the stair and a dedicated bunk room add playful touches for visiting grandchildren. The home is a balance of openness and enclosure, modernity and warmth—designed not only as a retreat but as a multigenerational gathering place, deeply connected to the land.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Charleston III Modern Farmhouse in Charlottesville, Virginia, effortlessly balances classic architectural details with modern charm. Boasting an expansive 3,751 square feet of meticulously designed living space, this estate-scale floor plan offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and an included 3-car garage. The home is anchored by a chef-ready, open-concept kitchen equipped with abundant counter space, a large central island for casual gathering, and an included "messy kitchen" secondary pantry and prep zone to keep the main area organized. Designed for effortless entertaining, a sophisticated home bar area is situated within the flexible bonus room for pre-dinner drinks, transitioning smoothly into the formal dining room and a cozy hearth room for a relaxed post-meal retreat. The main level beautifully blends cozy comfort with elevated living by featuring two separate custom fireplaces—one serving as a dramatic focal point in the central great room and a second adding intimate warmth to the adjacent hearth room. A smart split-bedroom layout prioritizes privacy, keeping the secondary bedrooms on one side of the residence while establishing the primary owner’s retreat as a secluded sanctuary on the other. Designed for ultimate organization and luxury, the primary suite features a show-stopping, custom two-story walk-in closet with separate levels to provide individual wardrobe spaces for each partner. This premium layout includes one main-level closet adjoining a spa-like owner's bath—fully appointed with a refined glass-enclosed shower and an elegant freestanding soaking tub—and a second, lofted upper retreat accessed by an integrated staircase.

Inspiration for a huge tropical patio remodel in Miami

Blending timeless architecture with modern family living, this home balances classic gabled forms, natural limestone, and warm wood detailing in a refined transitional design. Thoughtfully composed around light-filled living spaces, generous windows and soaring ceilings fill the interiors with natural light. Open living spaces flow seamlessly to the covered patio and pool, creating an effortless connection between architecture, landscape, and daily life in this established Austin neighborhood.

Lagoon-side property in the Bel Marin Keys, Novato, CA. Entertaining and enjoying the views were a primary design goal for this project. The project includes a large camaru deck with built-in seating. The concrete steps and pavers lead down to the water's edge. I included a sunken patio on one side and a beautiful Buddha statue on the other, surrounded by succulents and other low-water, contemporary plantings. I also used Dymondia ground cover to create a natural pathways within the garden. Featured plants: Achillea 'Coronation Gold (Yarrow), Euphorbia 'Blackbird', Lavenders, Lion's Tail and Penstemon heterophyllus. Photo: © Eileen Kelly, Dig Your Garden Landscape Design. Design Eileen Kelly

Leave the concrete jungle behind as you step into the serene colors of nature brought together in this couples shower spa. Luxurious Gold fixtures play against deep green picket fence tile and cool marble veining to calm, inspire and refresh your senses at the end of the day.