Search results for "Evolving" in Home Design Ideas

This coastal garden is located 4 hours north of Sydney. This garden has been an ongoing project for Secret Gardens over the last decade. The original brief was for a ‘mini botanic garden’ which proved a challenge on a site with little tree or vegetation cover and limited top soil. The plantings are 95% native, from the establishing rainforest where over 25 varieties of trees have been used to the drier areas where Callistemon, Kangaroo Paw and ornamental grasses have been used in large swathes.The result now is an established garden that will continue to evolve and provide great enjoyment for our clients.

Designed by Land and Water Design and brought to life by Evolve Construction. This project features a Trex "Rain Escape" membrane system, Fiberon decking, beaded fir ceiling with recessed lights and ceiling fans, Versatek PVC trim, Oceanic Bordeaux granite grill counter top, Linx Grill and accessories, Vinyl Pergolas, custom built handrails with straight and custom bent tempered glass, and aluminum balusters. Includes under stairway storage area, and a custom lattice A/C screen with pergola. Low voltage deck lighting by Affordable Lighting.

Submerse yourself in a serene bath environment and enjoy solitude as your reward. Select the most inviting and luxurious materials to create a relaxing space that rejuvenates as it soothes and calms. Coordinating bath furniture from Dura Supreme brings all the details together with your choice of beautiful styles and finishes. Mirrored doors in the linen cabinet make small spaces look expansive and add a convenient full-length mirror into the bathroom.
Two tall linen cabinets in this two-tone bathroom add vast amounts of storage to the small space while adding beauty to the room. The “Cashew” gray stain on the linen cabinets match the undertones of the Heritage Paint finish and at a beautifully dramatic contrast to the design. This sublime bathroom features Dura Supreme’s “Style Four” furniture series. Style Four offers 10 different configurations (for single sink vanities, double sink vanities, or offset sinks), and multiple decorative toe options to coordinate vanities and linen cabinets. A matching mirror complements the vanity design.
Over time, a well-loved painted furniture piece will show distinctive signs of wear and use. Each chip and dent tells a story of its history through layers of paint. With its beautifully aged surface and chipped edges, Dura Supreme’s Heritage Paint collection, shown on this bathroom vanity, is designed to resemble a cherished family heirloom.
Dura Supreme’s artisans hand-detail the surface to create the look of timeworn distressing. Finishes are layered to emulate the look of furniture that has been refinished over the years. A layer of stain is covered with a layer of paint with special effects to age the surface. The paint is then chipped away along corners and edges to create, the signature look of Heritage Paint.
The bathroom has evolved from its purist utilitarian roots to a more intimate and reflective sanctuary in which to relax and reconnect. A refreshing spa-like environment offers a brisk welcome at the dawning of a new day or a soothing interlude as your day concludes.
Our busy and hectic lifestyles leave us yearning for a private place where we can truly relax and indulge. With amenities that pamper the senses and design elements inspired by luxury spas, bathroom environments are being transformed from the mundane and utilitarian to the extravagant and luxurious.
Bath cabinetry from Dura Supreme offers myriad design directions to create the personal harmony and beauty that are a hallmark of the bath sanctuary. Immerse yourself in our expansive palette of finishes and wood species to discover the look that calms your senses and soothes your soul. Your Dura Supreme designer will guide you through the selections and transform your bath into a beautiful retreat.
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The Phi Delta Theta house in Davis, California has been rooted in generations of use. The home was originally occupied in 1916 by the Calpha Agricultural Fraternity that eventually evolved into the California chapter of Phi Delta Theta. The original building was evaluated for renovation in the early 2000’s and it was determined renovation was impractical. The building was demolished and design was completed to maintain the original character of the building’s deep historical roots. Monley Cronin was selected and completed full reconstruction of the facility in 2013. Much of the exterior appearance and character of the building was maintained in the new facility. The building houses 19 beds and has dining and living space for 75.
Betty Woo Architecture
Photography by: Farrell Scott

Summer Bathroom:
Handmade tiles cascade as a gradient, evolving from the red clay ground into a streak of sunshine into the lush, mossy green forest. A custom mirror spans the vanity wall to reflect the surroundings, a nod to getting lost in the dense redwood forest. A gray concrete sink pays tribute to the rocky gravel roads along the trails & we swapped out the ceiling for a giant, custom Italian-made LED light fixture to embody the blinding sun.
The result? A space primed as the perfect backdrop to fuel his imagination.

“I fell in love with the motor court and entry,” says Brunn. “Back at the site, I started with a motor court, and the bridge evolved because of the structure. I could go right over the river instead of biasing the whole house on one side.” The river forms a natural division for public and private spaces in the residence, marking the point where one circulation transitions into another: “Instead of a first floor and second floor, you think of it in terms of length.”

As the design process evolved, the idea of the Ultimate Cocktail Bar emerged and developed into an integral component of the new bright kitchen.
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional galley vinyl floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen remodel in San Francisco with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, multicolored backsplash, mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, no island and white countertops
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional galley vinyl floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen remodel in San Francisco with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, multicolored backsplash, mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, no island and white countertops

This house outside Boston was built of Chester County fieldstone to evoke Pennsylvania stone farmhouses the owners had admired when they were growing up around Philadelphia. The house and outbuildings, though new, have the feeling of having grown and evolved over time.

“I fell in love with the motor court and entry,” says Brunn. “Back at the site, I started with a motor court, and the bridge evolved because of the structure. I could go right over the river instead of biasing the whole house on one side.” The river forms a natural division for public and private spaces in the residence, marking the point where one circulation transitions into another: “Instead of a first floor and second floor, you think of it in terms of length.”

photo by Curtis Martin Photo Inc.
One of the most striking features of this home is its sculptural, serpentine staircase leading to an oval cupola with 360-degree views. This stair is about celebrating flow and movement. When a person enters the home, they want to put their hand on the curved hand rail and see where it goes. The home’s design evolved from this staircase and tower – the curved elements of the stair contrast with the square or rectilinear forms of other spaces.

“I fell in love with the motor court and entry,” says Brunn. “Back at the site, I started with a motor court, and the bridge evolved because of the structure. I could go right over the river instead of biasing the whole house on one side.” The river forms a natural division for public and private spaces in the residence, marking the point where one circulation transitions into another: “Instead of a first floor and second floor, you think of it in terms of length.”

This coastal garden is located 4 hours north of Sydney. This garden has been an ongoing project for Secret Gardens over the last decade. The original brief was for a ‘mini botanic garden’ which proved a challenge on a site with little tree or vegetation cover and limited top soil. The plantings are 95% native, from the establishing rainforest where over 25 varieties of trees have been used to the drier areas where Callistemon, Kangaroo Paw and ornamental grasses have been used in large swathes.The result now is an established garden that will continue to evolve and provide great enjoyment for our clients.

This West Des Moines kitchen remodel is complete with all new materials, and a design that takes advantage of the home’s space, while creating interest and dimension. By using semi-custom cabinetry, we were able to use more of the available space in the kitchen, which looks more natural and provides the family with more storage. The neutral color palette will allow the homeowner to vary accessories for an evolving, fresh look.
Photography by Jake Boyd Photo

The 2021 Southern Living Idea House is inspiring on multiple levels—from the stunning location in Louisville, Kentucky overlooking the Ohio river, to the design-driven home that marries European countryside vibes with a timeless aesthetic. Dubbed the “forever home,” the concept was to design for all stages of life, with thoughtful spaces that meet the ever-evolving needs of families today.
The 5,545-square-foot, Colonial Greek Revival Cottage-style home is located in The Breakers at Prospect community and is the collective effort of many. While it may have formerly been a trend to embrace open layout living spaces, following the pandemic families are seeking spaces in the home that feel separated, to allow for privacy. Rooms with clear intentions allow more options for areas in which to spend time, depending on your mood, and this home perfectly balances livable and lively ideas.
Marvin products were chosen for this project to maximize the use of natural light, allow airflow from outdoors to indoors, and provide expansive views that overlook the Ohio River.
MARVIN PRODUCTS USED:
Marvin Awaken Skylight
Marvin Ultimate Casement Window
Marvin Ultimate Double Hung G2 Window
Marvin Ultimate Picture Window
Marvin Ultimate Direct Glaze Round Top Window
Marvin Ultimate Swinging French Door G2
BUILDER: Jason Black and Jimmy King of Artisan Signature Homes
ARCHITECT: Brandon Ingram of C. Brandon Ingram Design
INTERIOR DESIGNER: Sarah Bartholomew, Sarah Bartholomew Design
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: Josh Myers of Myers & Co. Landscape Architecture
PHOTOGRAPHY: Laurey W. Glenn, Marta Xochilt Perez, and Kriech-Higdon Photography for Southern Living

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

Our clients are married professionals who felt like they were previously living in a dorm room that lacked style and sophistication. In the beginning of the process, helping them find their style was a challenge (but a super fun one!). We love how this evolved into a cool, cozy, bold, and eclectic space with just the right amount of quirk and edge. ?? (Plus, that emerald green velvet sofa by Roger & Chris is just so ?)

 
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The Klimala’s and their three kids are no strangers to moving, this being their fifth house in the same town over the 20-year period they have lived there. “It must be the 7-year itch, because every seven years, we seem to find ourselves antsy for a new project or a new environment. I think part of it is being a designer, I see my own taste evolve and I want my environment to reflect that. Having easy access to wonderful tradesmen and a knowledge of the process makes it that much easier”.
This time, Klimala’s fell in love with a somewhat unlikely candidate. The 1950’s ranch turned cape cod was a bit of a mutt, but it’s location 5 minutes from their design studio and backing up to the high school where their kids can roll out of bed and walk to school, coupled with the charm of its location on a private road and lush landscaping made it an appealing choice for them.
“The bones of the house were really charming. It was typical 1,500 square foot ranch that at some point someone added a second floor to. Its sloped roofline and dormered bedrooms gave it some charm.” With the help of architect Maureen McHugh, Klimala’s gutted and reworked the layout to make the house work for them. An open concept kitchen and dining room allows for more frequent casual family dinners and dinner parties that linger. A dingy 3-season room off the back of the original house was insulated, given a vaulted ceiling with skylights and now opens up to the kitchen. This room now houses an 8’ raw edge white oak dining table and functions as an informal dining room. “One of the challenges with these mid-century homes is the 8’ ceilings. I had to have at least one room that had a higher ceiling so that’s how we did it” states Klimala.
The kitchen features a 10’ island which houses a 5’0” Galley Sink. The Galley features two faucets, and double tiered rail system to which accessories such as cutting boards and stainless steel bowls can be added for ease of cooking. Across from the large sink is an induction cooktop. “My two teen daughters and I enjoy cooking, and the Galley and induction cooktop make it so easy.” A wall of tall cabinets features a full size refrigerator, freezer, double oven and built in coffeemaker. The area on the opposite end of the kitchen features a pantry with mirrored glass doors and a beverage center below.
The rest of the first floor features an entry way, a living room with views to the front yard’s lush landscaping, a family room where the family hangs out to watch TV, a back entry from the garage with a laundry room and mudroom area, one of the home’s four bedrooms and a full bath. There is a double sided fireplace between the family room and living room. The home features pops of color from the living room’s peach grass cloth to purple painted wall in the family room. “I’m definitely a traditionalist at heart but because of the home’s Midcentury roots, I wanted to incorporate some of those elements into the furniture, lighting and accessories which also ended up being really fun. We are not formal people so I wanted a house that my kids would enjoy, have their friends over and feel comfortable.”
The second floor houses the master bedroom suite, two of the kids’ bedrooms and a back room nicknamed “the library” because it has turned into a quiet get away area where the girls can study or take a break from the rest of the family. The area was originally unfinished attic, and because the home was short on closet space, this Jack and Jill area off the girls’ bedrooms houses two large walk-in closets and a small sitting area with a makeup vanity. “The girls really wanted to keep the exposed brick of the fireplace that runs up the through the space, so that’s what we did, and I think they feel like they are in their own little loft space in the city when they are up there” says Klimala.
Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD
Photography by: Carlos Vergara
For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

These empty-nesters designed their dream “in-town home” by evolving the kitchen in their former home to meet their needs today. The owner loves to entertain, and there were three key elements behind the design to make this kitchen a cook’s dream: accommodating a generous banquette for seating, an L shaped island with two full-sized sinks and dishwashers along with virtually indestructible Pyrolave countertops with integrated drainboards.

In a world that moves at a relentless pace, the concept of “home design” stands as a refuge - a sanctuary where time slows, moments matter, and life finds its rhythm. A home is not just a structure of walls and a roof; it is a living, breathing entity that evolves with us, reflecting who we are and nurturing who we aspire to become.

The homeowners loved the character of their 100-year-old home near Lake Harriet, but the original layout no longer supported their busy family’s modern lifestyle. When they contacted the architect, they had a simple request: remodel our master closet. This evolved into a complete home renovation that took three-years of meticulous planning and tactical construction. The completed home demonstrates the overall goal of the remodel: historic inspiration with modern luxuries.
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