Matthew J. Cunningham
Photo of a contemporary landscaping in Boston.

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

Kurtis Miller - KM Pics
Arts and crafts green concrete fiberboard exterior home photo in Atlanta

Inspiration for a contemporary exterior home remodel in Seattle

Product: Authentic Limestone for Exterior Living Spaces. Ancient Surfaces Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com The design of external living spaces is known as the 'Al Fresco' design style as it is called in Italian. 'Al Fresco' translates into 'the open' or 'the cool/fresh exterior'. Customizing a fully functional outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, BBQ, fireplace or Jacuzzi pool spa all out of old reclaimed Mediterranean stone pieces is no easy task and shouldn’t be created out of the lowest common denominator of building materials such as concrete, Indian slates or Turkish travertine. The one thing you can bet the farmhouse on is that when the entire process unravels and when your outdoor living space materializes from the architects rendering to real life, you will be guaranteed a true Mediterranean living experience if your choice of construction material was as authentic and possible to the Southern Mediterranean regions. We believe that the coziness of your surroundings brought about by the creative usage of our antique stone elements will only amplify that authenticity. whether you are enjoying a relaxing time soaking the sun inside one of our Jacuzzi spa stone fountains or sharing unforgettable memories with family and friends while baking your own pizzas in one of our outdoor BBQ pizza ovens, our stone designs will always evoke in most a feeling of euphoria and exultation that one only gets while being on vacation is some exotic European island surrounded with the pristine beauty of indigenous nature and ancient architecture...

Chottu
Zen exterior home photo in Bengaluru

Energia C046 Modern Power Recliner Sectional Sofa by Natuzzi Editions. Simple modern design of the C046 sectional sofa will not only decorate your living room interior, but also provide you with the comfort you are looking for. This reclining sectional sofa guaranties excellence in style, quality, comfort and functionality. Energia C046 by Natuzzi Editions is a modular collection, featuring variety of units, with the help of which you can build sectional sofa (L-shape and U-Shape) that can fit almost any particular dimensions as well as order it as a regular sofa, loveseat and chair, with or without recliners. Only Top Grain Italian leather is offered in a wide selection of colors and grades so you can definitely find the one you like. Features: Designed by Natuzzi Editions Seat and Back cushions are fixed to the frame Wooden frame Wooden feet in either Wenge or Walnut finish Recliner pieces have dual power mechanism with external switch on the side panel that activates recliner and headrest and includes an USB port Upholstery: Italian Top Grain Leather Modular collection that allows to build a Sectional or 3-piece Sofa Set Dimensions: Large Sofa: W94" x D39" x H40" Small Sofa: W87" x D39" x H40" Loveseat: W69" x D39" x H40" Chair: W45" x D39" x H40"

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary single-wall light wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel in Toronto with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, an island, an undermount sink, quartz countertops, paneled appliances and white countertops

Tom Bonner
Large trendy two-story metal house exterior photo in Los Angeles with a shed roof and a metal roof

Martha Stewart Living Ox Hill PureStyle cabinetry and Fretted Corbel in Sharkey Gray. Martha Stewart Living Corian countertop in Tundra. Martha Stewart Living hardware in Bedford Nickel. All available exclusively at The Home Depot

www.meechan.com
Example of a trendy exterior home design in Other

The Real Flame Mezzo Round Propane Fire Table has a sleek and contemporary design that will accentuate your outdoor living space. Powered by 20lb LP tank, the flames will emit 60,000 BTUs for 7 to 22 hours, depending on your heat setting. This fire table comes complete with lava rock filler, and a protective cover for when the table is not in use. This product comes in Antique White and Flint Gray finishes. Dimension: 42.25” D x 11.5” H Weight: 117 lbs.

Product: Authentic Limestone for Exterior Living Spaces. Ancient Surfaces Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com The design of external living spaces is known as the 'Al Fresco' design style as it is called in Italian. 'Al Fresco' translates into 'the open' or 'the cool/fresh exterior'. Customizing a fully functional outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, BBQ, fireplace or Jacuzzi pool spa all out of old reclaimed Mediterranean stone pieces is no easy task and shouldn’t be created out of the lowest common denominator of building materials such as concrete, Indian slates or Turkish travertine. The one thing you can bet the farmhouse on is that when the entire process unravels and when your outdoor living space materializes from the architects rendering to real life, you will be guaranteed a true Mediterranean living experience if your choice of construction material was as authentic and possible to the Southern Mediterranean regions. We believe that the coziness of your surroundings brought about by the creative usage of our antique stone elements will only amplify that authenticity. whether you are enjoying a relaxing time soaking the sun inside one of our Jacuzzi spa stone fountains or sharing unforgettable memories with family and friends while baking your own pizzas in one of our outdoor BBQ pizza ovens, our stone designs will always evoke in most a feeling of euphoria and exultation that one only gets while being on vacation is some exotic European island surrounded with the pristine beauty of indigenous nature and ancient architecture...

Exterior Painting: A beautiful pillared entrance invites you into this lovely multi level home. Beige exterior paint gives this stucco a fresh, new look. Large lattice windows give this home a welcome feel.

Beach style patio photo in Sydney

Gilbertson Photography
Example of a mid-sized minimalist porcelain tile entryway design in Minneapolis with white walls

This Scandinavian-style home is a true masterpiece in minimalist design, perfectly blending in with the natural beauty of Moraga's rolling hills. With an elegant fireplace and soft, comfortable seating, the living room becomes an ideal place to relax with family. The revamped kitchen boasts functional features that make cooking a breeze, and the cozy dining space with soft wood accents creates an intimate atmosphere for family dinners or entertaining guests. The luxurious bedroom offers sprawling views that take one’s breath away. The back deck is the ultimate retreat, providing an abundance of stunning vistas to enjoy while basking in the sunshine. The sprawling deck, complete with a Finnish sauna and outdoor shower, is the perfect place to unwind and take in the magnificent views. From the windows and floors to the kitchen and bathrooms, everything has been carefully curated to create a serene and bright space that exudes Scandinavian charisma.

Product: Authentic Limestone for Exterior Living Spaces. Ancient Surfaces Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com The design of external living spaces is known as the 'Al Fresco' design style as it is called in Italian. 'Al Fresco' translates into 'the open' or 'the cool/fresh exterior'. Customizing a fully functional outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, BBQ, fireplace or Jacuzzi pool spa all out of old reclaimed Mediterranean stone pieces is no easy task and shouldn’t be created out of the lowest common denominator of building materials such as concrete, Indian slates or Turkish travertine. The one thing you can bet the farmhouse on is that when the entire process unravels and when your outdoor living space materializes from the architects rendering to real life, you will be guaranteed a true Mediterranean living experience if your choice of construction material was as authentic and possible to the Southern Mediterranean regions. We believe that the coziness of your surroundings brought about by the creative usage of our antique stone elements will only amplify that authenticity. whether you are enjoying a relaxing time soaking the sun inside one of our Jacuzzi spa stone fountains or sharing unforgettable memories with family and friends while baking your own pizzas in one of our outdoor BBQ pizza ovens, our stone designs will always evoke in most a feeling of euphoria and exultation that one only gets while being on vacation is some exotic European island surrounded with the pristine beauty of indigenous nature and ancient architecture...

Living room - modern living room idea in Singapore