A fresh take on traditional style, this sprawling suburban home draws its occupants together in beautifully, comfortably designed spaces that gather family members for companionship, conversation, and conviviality. At the same time, it adroitly accommodates a crowd, and facilitates large-scale entertaining with ease. This balance of private intimacy and public welcome is the result of Soucie Horner’s deft remodeling of the original floor plan and creation of an all-new wing comprising functional spaces including a mudroom, powder room, laundry room, and home office, along with an exciting, three-room teen suite above. A quietly orchestrated symphony of grayed blues unites this home, from Soucie Horner Collections custom furniture and rugs, to objects, accessories, and decorative exclamationpoints that punctuate the carefully synthesized interiors. A discerning demonstration of family-friendly living at its finest.

This cozy lake cottage skillfully incorporates a number of features that would normally be restricted to a larger home design. A glance of the exterior reveals a simple story and a half gable running the length of the home, enveloping the majority of the interior spaces. To the rear, a pair of gables with copper roofing flanks a covered dining area that connects to a screened porch. Inside, a linear foyer reveals a generous staircase with cascading landing. Further back, a centrally placed kitchen is connected to all of the other main level entertaining spaces through expansive cased openings. A private study serves as the perfect buffer between the homes master suite and living room. Despite its small footprint, the master suite manages to incorporate several closets, built-ins, and adjacent master bath complete with a soaker tub flanked by separate enclosures for shower and water closet. Upstairs, a generous double vanity bathroom is shared by a bunkroom, exercise space, and private bedroom. The bunkroom is configured to provide sleeping accommodations for up to 4 people. The rear facing exercise has great views of the rear yard through a set of windows that overlook the copper roof of the screened porch below. Builder: DeVries & Onderlinde Builders Interior Designer: Vision Interiors by Visbeen Photographer: Ashley Avila Photography

The Rustic Canyon Art Studio occupies a thin, triangular sliver of property close to the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California. Connected to the main residence by both a footbridge and an automobile bridge, the studio is a retreat for art and exercise. The long, triangular plan is formed by the property line and a hillside on the east and the Rustic Canyon Creek Channel on the west. A simple steel column and beam system placed on the interior of the studio allows the roof plane to be “lifted” off the building. The building’s columnar system corresponds to a subterranean system of large concrete caissons that extend 30-40 feet below grade. The building interior consists of an art studio and an exercise area, with sliding glass panels creating a partial separation wall between the two areas. Continuous Douglas Fir clerestory windows around the studio perimeter separate the walls from the roof plane. The high windows bring soft, diffuse light into the building interior, creating optimal natural lighting for the art studio. The exterior walls are 12”-14” thick, to allow for horizontal air distribution. The thick walls also accommodate pockets for oversized Douglas fir sliding glass door panels, thus allowing the doors to completely disappear into the walls and opening the studio directly toward the Rustic Creek Channel. The shed roof is covered with standing seam Rheinzink. The triangular plan causes the roof to rise from the south end to the north end, and the north end is further cut on the diagonal and lifted to create large, north-facing clerestory windows for the studio. The studio is an exercise in spatial and structural simplicity. Sustainable design was incorporated from the beginning. High clerestory windows provide extensive natural light and ventilation throughout the studio. Insulation values 60% higher than conventional construction were achieved by using double 2x4 walls.

Large tuscan medium tone wood floor and brown floor home yoga studio photo in Orange County with white walls

The Rustic Canyon Art Studio occupies a thin, triangular sliver of property close to the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California. Connected to the main residence by both a footbridge and an automobile bridge, the studio is a retreat for art and exercise. The long, triangular plan is formed by the property line and a hillside on the east and the Rustic Canyon Creek Channel on the west. A simple steel column and beam system placed on the interior of the studio allows the roof plane to be “lifted” off the building. The building’s columnar system corresponds to a subterranean system of large concrete caissons that extend 30-40 feet below grade. The building interior consists of an art studio and an exercise area, with sliding glass panels creating a partial separation wall between the two areas. Continuous Douglas Fir clerestory windows around the studio perimeter separate the walls from the roof plane. The high windows bring soft, diffuse light into the building interior, creating optimal natural lighting for the art studio. The exterior walls are 12”-14” thick, to allow for horizontal air distribution. The thick walls also accommodate pockets for oversized Douglas fir sliding glass door panels, thus allowing the doors to completely disappear into the walls and opening the studio directly toward the Rustic Creek Channel. The shed roof is covered with standing seam Rheinzink. The triangular plan causes the roof to rise from the south end to the north end, and the north end is further cut on the diagonal and lifted to create large, north-facing clerestory windows for the studio. The studio is an exercise in spatial and structural simplicity. Sustainable design was incorporated from the beginning. High clerestory windows provide extensive natural light and ventilation throughout the studio. Insulation values 60% higher than conventional construction were achieved by using double 2x4 walls. Photo: Tom Bonner

A fresh take on traditional style, this sprawling suburban home draws its occupants together in beautifully, comfortably designed spaces that gather family members for companionship, conversation, and conviviality. At the same time, it adroitly accommodates a crowd, and facilitates large-scale entertaining with ease. This balance of private intimacy and public welcome is the result of Soucie Horner’s deft remodeling of the original floor plan and creation of an all-new wing comprising functional spaces including a mudroom, powder room, laundry room, and home office, along with an exciting, three-room teen suite above. A quietly orchestrated symphony of grayed blues unites this home, from Soucie Horner Collections custom furniture and rugs, to objects, accessories, and decorative exclamationpoints that punctuate the carefully synthesized interiors. A discerning demonstration of family-friendly living at its finest.

entry courtyard (just planted!)
Cottage wood exterior home idea in Seattle with a metal roof and a brown roof

Karen and Chad of Tower Lakes, IL were tired of their unfinished basement functioning as nothing more than a storage area and depressing gym. They wanted to increase the livable square footage of their home with a cohesive finished basement design, while incorporating space for the kids and adults to hang out. “We wanted to make sure that upon renovating the basement, that we can have a place where we can spend time and watch movies, but also entertain and showcase the wine collection that we have,” Karen said. After a long search comparing many different remodeling companies, Karen and Chad found Advance Design Studio. They were drawn towards the unique “Common Sense Remodeling” process that simplifies the renovation experience into predictable steps focused on customer satisfaction. “There are so many other design/build companies, who may not have transparency, or a focused process in mind and I think that is what separated Advance Design Studio from the rest,” Karen said. Karen loved how designer Claudia Pop was able to take very high-level concepts, “non-negotiable items” and implement them in the initial 3D drawings. Claudia and Project Manager DJ Yurik kept the couple in constant communication through the project. “Claudia was very receptive to the ideas we had, but she was also very good at infusing her own points and thoughts, she was very responsive, and we had an open line of communication,” Karen said. A very important part of the basement renovation for the couple was the home gym and sauna. The “high-end hotel” look and feel of the openly blended work out area is both highly functional and beautiful to look at. The home sauna gives them a place to relax after a long day of work or a tough workout. “The gym was a very important feature for us,” Karen said. “And I think (Advance Design) did a very great job in not only making the gym a functional area, but also an aesthetic point in our basement”. An extremely unique wow-factor in this basement is the walk in glass wine cellar that elegantly displays Karen and Chad’s extensive wine collection. Immediate access to the stunning wet bar accompanies the wine cellar to make this basement a popular spot for friends and family. The custom-built wine bar brings together two natural elements; Calacatta Vicenza Quartz and thick distressed Black Walnut. Sophisticated yet warm Graphite Dura Supreme cabinetry provides contrast to the soft beige walls and the Calacatta Gold backsplash. An undermount sink across from the bar in a matching Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop adds functionality and convenience to the bar, while identical distressed walnut floating shelves add an interesting design element and increased storage. Rich true brown Rustic Oak hardwood floors soften and warm the space drawing all the areas together. Across from the bar is a comfortable living area perfect for the family to sit down at a watch a movie. A full bath completes this finished basement with a spacious walk-in shower, Cocoa Brown Dura Supreme vanity with Calacatta Vicenza Quartz countertop, a crisp white sink and a stainless-steel Voss faucet. Advance Design’s Common Sense process gives clients the opportunity to walk through the basement renovation process one step at a time, in a completely predictable and controlled environment. “Everything was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to it’s full potential,” Karen said. Constantly striving for customer satisfaction, Advance Design’s success is heavily reliant upon happy clients referring their friends and family. “We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a remodeling project small or large,” Karen exclaimed at the completion of her project.

Regis Vogt
Example of a trendy medium tone wood floor family room design in DC Metro with a two-sided fireplace and a media wall

Farmhouse exterior home idea in Portland

This barn used to be the carriage house for an adjacent property, and was initially in pretty bad shape: no roof, sagging beams, and so much Redwood duff and ivy that the owner didn't realize there was a concrete floor underneath. A framer helped the owner reframe the barn from the inside, using dimensional lumber to keep the integrity of the original studs. (Back in the day, a 2 x 4 actually measured 2" x 4".) The siding seen here was originally on the inside of this same wall. Originally the barn had three "rooms", and when the third room collapsed the wall was replaced with plywood.

This elegant Craftsman style house plan features plenty of space for the whole family to do their own thing with no interruptions … but there’s space where everyone can get together for movie night or other family activities. The downstairs features a well-designed open floor plan highlighted by a vaulted gathering room, gourmet kitchen with breakfast area, formal dining space and a home office. The downstairs master suite opens onto a covered loggia, and also features a large dressing room/walk-in closet area. Upstairs you’ll find three suites, each opening onto a bathroom, making any of them a perfect mother-in-law suite. Oh, there’s also one of the largest bonus rooms you’ll find anywhere. The garage with 3-car dimensions is perfect for adding workshop space — or the ultimate man cave. First Floor Heated: 2,976 Master Suite: Down Second Floor Heated: 2,376 Baths: 6.5 Third Floor Heated: Main Floor Ceiling: 10' Total Heated Area: 5,352 Specialty Rooms: Outdoor Living, Office/Media Room, Exercise, Game Room Garages: Three Garage: 1,126 Bedrooms: Five Footprint: 90'-8" x 93'-1" www.edgplancollection.com

Nicholas Moriarty Interiors
Large trendy brown two-story wood exterior home photo in Chicago

The Rustic Canyon Art Studio occupies a thin, triangular sliver of property close to the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California. Connected to the main residence by both a footbridge and an automobile bridge, the studio is a retreat for art and exercise. The long, triangular plan is formed by the property line and a hillside on the east and the Rustic Canyon Creek Channel on the west. A simple steel column and beam system placed on the interior of the studio allows the roof plane to be “lifted” off the building. The building’s columnar system corresponds to a subterranean system of large concrete caissons that extend 30-40 feet below grade. The building interior consists of an art studio and an exercise area, with sliding glass panels creating a partial separation wall between the two areas. Continuous Douglas Fir clerestory windows around the studio perimeter separate the walls from the roof plane. The high windows bring soft, diffuse light into the building interior, creating optimal natural lighting for the art studio. The exterior walls are 12”-14” thick, to allow for horizontal air distribution. The thick walls also accommodate pockets for oversized Douglas fir sliding glass door panels, thus allowing the doors to completely disappear into the walls and opening the studio directly toward the Rustic Creek Channel. The shed roof is covered with standing seam Rheinzink. The triangular plan causes the roof to rise from the south end to the north end, and the north end is further cut on the diagonal and lifted to create large, north-facing clerestory windows for the studio. The studio is an exercise in spatial and structural simplicity. Sustainable design was incorporated from the beginning. High clerestory windows provide extensive natural light and ventilation throughout the studio. Insulation values 60% higher than conventional construction were achieved by using double 2x4 walls. Photo: Tom Bonner

Ryan from North Dakota has built Architectural Designs Exclusive house plan 73348HS in reverse and was kind enough to share his beautiful photos with us! This design features kitchen and dining areas that can both enjoy the great room fireplace thanks to its open floor plan. You can also relax on the "other side" of the dual-sided fireplace in the hearth room - enjoying the view out the windows of the beautiful octagonal shaped room! The lower floor is ideal for entertaining with a spacious game and family room and adjoining bar. This level also includes a 5th bedroom and a large exercise room. What a stunning design! Check it out! Specs-at-a-glance: 3,477 square feet of living 5 Bedrooms 4.5 Baths Ready when you are. Where do YOU want to build? Plan Link: http://bit.ly/73348HS

Home Built by Arjay Builders Inc. Photo by Amoura Productions
Inspiration for a huge contemporary home gym remodel in Omaha

Home gym - large mediterranean gray floor home gym idea in Dallas with white walls

The shower is universally designed and has no curb or step at its entry. The drawer pulls are also designed for easy use. A Bonisolli Photography
Mid-sized transitional white tile walk-in shower photo in Miami with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets and marble countertops

In a wooded area of Lafayette, a mid-century home was re-imagined for a graphic designer and kindergarten teacher couple and their three children. A major new design feature is a high ceiling great room that wraps from the front to the back yard, turning a corner at the kitchen and ending at the family room fireplace. This room was designed with a high flat roof to work in conjunction with existing roof forms to create a unified whole, and raise interior ceiling heights from eight to over ten feet. All new lighting and large floor to ceiling Fleetwood aluminum windows expand views of the trees beyond. The existing home was enlarged by 700 square feet with a small exterior addition enlarging the kitchen over an existing deck, and a larger amount by excavating out crawlspace at the garage level to create a new home office with full bath, and separate laundry utility room. The remodeled residence became 3,847 square feet in total area including the garage. Exterior curb appeal was improved with all new Fleetwood windows, stained wood siding and stucco. New steel railing and concrete steps lead up to the front entry. Front and rear yard new landscape design by Huettl Landscape Architecture dramatically alters the site. New planting was added at the front yard with landscape lighting and modern concrete pavers and the rear yard has multiple decks for family gatherings with the focal point a concrete conversation circle with central fire feature. Everything revolves around the corner kitchen, large windows to the backyard, quartz countertops and cabinetry in painted and walnut finishes. The homeowners enjoyed the process of selecting Heath Tile for the kitchen backsplash and white oval tiles at the family room fireplace. Black brick tiles by Fireclay were used on the living room hearth. The kitchen flows into the family room all with views to the beautifully landscaped yards. The primary suite has a built-in window seat with large windows overlooking the garden, walnut cabinetry in a skylit walk-in closet, and a large dramatic skylight bouncing light into the shower. The kid’s bath also has a skylight slot with light angling downward over double sinks. More colorful tile shows up in these spaces, as does a geometric patterned tile in the downstairs office bath shower. The large yard is taken full advantage of with concrete paved walkways, stairs and firepit circle. New retaining walls in the rear yard helped to add more level usable outdoor space, with wood slats to visually blend them into the overall design. The end result is a beautiful transformation of a mid-century home, that both captures the client’s personalities and elevates the house into the modern age.