This modern style house was a speculative venture creating a dynamic project which maximized the site constraints and zoning limits. The low pitched lofty roof lines focus on the site views and allow clear story windows for soft filtered light. The stained cedar trim and soffits, stone veneer and metal railings blend the modern architectural design with a northwest flair.

Designed as an entertainment hall, this was the third structure to be located around a pool, creating a loose courtyard on this 80 acre property. Situated under a canopy of live oaks, a continuous ridge skylight allows filtered light from the tree canopy to fill the interior of the hall. (Built 2006)

Previously, this yard was burdened by a typical boulder pile pool, that was heaped higher than typical, trying to hide the towering wall behind. At first, the clients sought merely to reconfigure the BBQ that was congesting the patio, but upon further analysis, they decided it was time to strip the entire yard, leaving only the pool shell. Bianchi’s solution introduced an array of four arbors to distract the eye from the wall behind, solving what the boulder waterfall could never do. Additionally, the wall was painted a dark earth tone to add contrast and depth. This strategy enabled the wall to recede into the distance, while the agave blue grey arbors floated forward visually from the background. Previously, the patios were a hodgepodge of deck islands that were impossible to navigate, and were of insufficient size to arrange furniture on. A well organized patio streamlined the traffic flow and the living space, featuring a cast in place concrete fire pit and banco couch, as well as a new outdoor bistro, glowing with filtered light from the canvas shade sails overhead. A turquoise glass overflow spa became the yards focal point, sharing the space between the pool and outdoor living. The striking symmetry of the spa and pot pedestal with regal cacti arrangement behind, flanked by the arbors on either side, created a stately first impression from the front door. This teaser was just a glimpse of what could not yet be seen serving as an invitation to explore and enjoy as the yard unfolds. See more about this project & hear from the homeowner here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eT3RkLkg5w&feature=youtu.be

Previously, this yard was burdened by a typical boulder pile pool, that was heaped higher than typical, trying to hide the towering wall behind. At first, the clients sought merely to reconfigure the BBQ that was congesting the patio, but upon further analysis, they decided it was time to strip the entire yard, leaving only the pool shell. Bianchi’s solution introduced an array of four arbors to distract the eye from the wall behind, solving what the boulder waterfall could never do. Additionally, the wall was painted a dark earth tone to add contrast and depth. This strategy enabled the wall to recede into the distance, while the agave blue grey arbors floated forward visually from the background. Previously, the patios were a hodgepodge of deck islands that were impossible to navigate, and were of insufficient size to arrange furniture on. A well organized patio streamlined the traffic flow and the living space, featuring a cast in place concrete fire pit and banco couch, as well as a new outdoor bistro, glowing with filtered light from the canvas shade sails overhead. A turquoise glass overflow spa became the yards focal point, sharing the space between the pool and outdoor living. The striking symmetry of the spa and pot pedestal with regal cacti arrangement behind, flanked by the arbors on either side, created a stately first impression from the front door. This teaser was just a glimpse of what could not yet be seen serving as an invitation to explore and enjoy as the yard unfolds. See more about this project & hear from the homeowner here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eT3RkLkg5w&feature=youtu.be

NANTUCKET™ WINDOW SHADINGS In this modern take on window shadings, daylight becomes a beautiful backdrop with the sheer fabric of Nantucket™ window shadings. Closed, they offer privacy and a soft glow; rolled up, they provide a clear view of the outdoors; opened, the vanes give you the best of both – an impressionistic view and soft, filtered light. In every situation, they’re a fresh, youthful approach to windows.

Example of a classic family room design in Phoenix

The smaller flax linen shades compliment the windows beautifully and offer privacy while allowing filtered light. Panels on side windows finish the space.

For doors and large windows, Silhouette sheer shades offer soft, filtered light and a dynamic view-through to the landscape. Door shades adjust easily with incredible style.

Lyne Brunet
Small transitional loft-style light wood floor living room photo in Montreal with beige walls

Eichler X-100 Exterior: A Steel-Framed Icon of California Modernism The exterior of the Eichler X-100 is a bold architectural statement—where structure, material, and landscape are expressed with total clarity. Designed by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons for Joseph Eichler, the home reimagines the traditional façade as something far more experimental and forward-thinking. A Structural Expression, Not Just a Façade Unlike conventional Eichler homes, the X-100’s exterior reveals its steel-frame construction. Six exposed steel I-beams project outward at the front elevation, creating a rhythmic, almost industrial composition. This honest expression of structure eliminates the need for load-bearing walls and becomes the defining visual language of the home. The use of concrete block, steel, and glass creates a striking contrast—grounded yet lightweight, industrial yet refined. Every material is intentional, with nothing hidden or decorative for its own sake. Geometry and Simplicity The massing is low and horizontal, consistent with mid-century modern principles, but elevated through precise geometry and modular spacing. Clean rooflines and deep overhangs emphasize horizontality while providing both shade and visual depth. The entry sequence is subtle and understated—typical of Eichler design—drawing you inward rather than announcing itself outwardly. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection At the rear, the home opens dramatically through expansive glass walls, dissolving the boundary between interior living spaces and the landscape beyond. The backyard is not separate from the home—it is an extension of it. Outdoor spaces are carefully composed with: Circular hardscape elements that echo the home’s geometric language Integrated planting areas that soften the architectural lines A strong sense of privacy despite the openness Atrium Living from the Outside In While many Eichlers feature atriums, the X-100 takes it further—its interior gardens influence the exterior experience, creating layered transparency. Glimpses of greenery, filtered light, and architectural framing give the home a dynamic, ever-changing presence from different vantage points. A Prototype of the Future The exterior of the Eichler X-100 doesn’t just represent a style—it represents a moment of experimentation in American residential design. It merges industrial innovation with livable beauty, embodying the optimism and forward-thinking spirit of California Modernism. For design enthusiasts, the X-100 exterior is not just visually compelling—it’s a rare opportunity to experience architecture where structure, space, and landscape operate as one cohesive idea. Image Sabrina Huang

Extend the party or find a moment of peace under the spectacular custom patio cover with attached pergola. The design continues seamlessly, with Tuscany Rustic split face tile beautifully accenting the post bases, tying the entire space together with a custom, cohesive look. This expansive covered area provides the perfect escape from the elements and offers endless possibilities for entertaining or relaxing. The pergola allows just the right amount of filtered light to create an inviting atmosphere, day or night. This family’s unique personal style breathes life into the space, creating a warm and welcoming retreat. The addition of a comfy hammock nook is the perfect example of how they've truly made this versatile space their own.

The renovations at Horseshoe Hill transformed a disjointed property into an alluring farmhouse with strong connections to the landscape and a fresh aesthetic to complement the owner’s South African furnishings. A new main gable establishes a strong central focus for the massing, and an entry wing addition welcomes visitors with a charming porch and inviting foyer. New south-facing covered porches create comfortable outdoor living areas, connect major rooms to the outdoors, and provide shade and filtered light for interior spaces. The home’s updated floor plan distills an existing warren of disconnected, small chambers into spacious, open rooms that infuse the house with a modern flow and engage the new pool.

Yavapai Cabin sits in the middle of a steep mountain in an Arizona conifer forest. A clearing on the slope was made by the owner, with a vision to create a cabin immersed within the tree canopies. Upward Architecture approached the project with two design options, exploring different ways to bring filtered light into the living spaces. Both options propose a plan with a central kitchen and living space, with sleeping suites on either side. A simple shed roof opens up to the commanding views of this Yavapai County forest, from all rooms.

This traditional Gambrel home is the embodiment of Chatham, MA luxury. Lavender blooms alongside the reclaimed granite exterior stairs that leads to the Stage Harbor beach on Cape Cod.

The renovations at Horseshoe Hill transformed a disjointed property into an alluring farmhouse with strong connections to the landscape and a fresh aesthetic to complement the owner’s South African furnishings. A new main gable establishes a strong central focus for the massing, and an entry wing addition welcomes visitors with a charming porch and inviting foyer. New south-facing covered porches create comfortable outdoor living areas, connect major rooms to the outdoors, and provide shade and filtered light for interior spaces. The home’s updated floor plan distills an existing warren of disconnected, small chambers into spacious, open rooms that infuse the house with a modern flow and engage the new pool.

Photo of a large asian drought-tolerant and partial sun backyard waterfall in Boston.

NANTUCKET™ WINDOW SHADINGS In this modern take on window shadings, daylight becomes a beautiful backdrop with the sheer fabric of Nantucket™ window shadings. Closed, they offer privacy and a soft glow; rolled up, they provide a clear view of the outdoors; opened, the vanes give you the best of both – an impressionistic view and soft, filtered light. In every situation, they’re a fresh, youthful approach to windows.

This very large parkway (roughly 70'x12') features drought tolerant plants with an emphasis on mass plantings. Installing plants in groups according to variety allows you to see the artistic nature of the plant since it becomes bold and showy in bulk. Due to filtered light and the layer of mulch which helps retain moisture, these plants will not require a lot of water which is helpful to our drought-relief efforts as well as our water bills!

NANTUCKET™ WINDOW SHADINGS In this modern take on window shadings, daylight becomes a beautiful backdrop with the sheer fabric of Nantucket™ window shadings. Closed, they offer privacy and a soft glow; rolled up, they provide a clear view of the outdoors; opened, the vanes give you the best of both – an impressionistic view and soft, filtered light. In every situation, they’re a fresh, youthful approach to windows.