Chris Michna At California Sofa you can create your own master piece without spending a fortune. We also offer design consultation for a nominal fee.

Our homeowner approached us first in order to remodel her master suite. Her shower was leaking and she wanted to turn 2 separate closets into one enviable walk in closet. This homeowners projects have been completed in multiple phases. The second phase was focused on the kitchen, laundry room and converting the dining room to an office. View before and after images of the project here: http://www.houzz.com/discussions/4412085/m=23/dining-room-turned-office-in-los-angeles-ca https://www.houzz.com/discussions/4425079/m=23/laundry-room-refresh-in-la https://www.houzz.com/discussions/4440223/m=23/banquette-driven-kitchen-remodel-in-la We feel fortunate that she has such great taste and furnished her home so well! Kitchen: The two biggest requests are homeowner had for their kitchen remodel was banquette seating and to reconfigure it so that she didn’t do so much walking while cooking. This transitional kitchen features white painted cabinets and a granite countertop. There are 4 pieces of historic porcelain tile from South America featured. The flooring is Narbina in a French pattern. In addition to the designer pendent light by Jamie Young: Flowering Lotus Antique Gold, there are also LED recessed lights. For the appliances our client decided on a Thermador 36” Gas Range, Kitchen Aid Refrigerator and Thermador Dishwasher. The kitchen has open shelving above the countertop and in the pantry.

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

Many of our clients prefer an integrated cosmetic for their TV and sound and interior design considerations need to be met. Fortunately Leon Speakers has a wonderful solution in multiple finishes, the Edge Media Frame. https://tinyurl.com/znrt2srt Check out this short video and see Sound & Vision for more information! https://lnkd.in/d2NCJKJd #leonspeakers #edgemedia #soundandvision #audio #soundbar #TV #interiordesign #hometheater #mediaroom #integratedtv #video #media

A client with a high-rise apartment in Manchester city centre contacted us in relation to the look of their bathroom tiles. The grout had become grubby and black with mould and it was clear from their message that they were considering have the grout replaced in order to freshen up the bathroom. We discussed the problem over the telephone, and they emailed a picture of the bathroom across so I could get a better idea of what needed doing. It turns out that the apartment had been rented out previously and they needed the bathroom renovating so they could start letting it again. Clearly, they were keen to have the work completed as soon as possible. Fortunately, we are sometimes able to come out on short notice, especially for small jobs like this and so were able to do the work the following week Re-grouting is a lot of work and very time consuming so I explained the benefits of Grout Colouring which is much quicker and results in a more practical finish as I will explain. There was a small issue with parking as one would expect from the city centre, but we were able to use one of the parking spaces of a neighbour in the basement of the building. My first task was to get the grout as clean as possible before applying the colourant and given the amount of mould I decided to apply Tile Doctor Duo-Clean which is a Tile Cleaner/Mould Remover and ideal for use on ceramic tile and grout. The product was sprayed onto the tiles and grout and then scrubbed in by hand to get the grout as clean as possible. I also used a powerful steam cleaner to get the grout as clean as possible before rinsing the soil off with water. This process went well, and the grout looked much cleaner afterwards but was now a little patchy in places due to deep staining. It’s worth noting that mould thrives in damp warm conditions and can easily be controlled by ensuring the bathroom has adequate ventilation. Some modern showers have a function that cool the bathroom down after use by running the shower on a cold setting. Improving cross-ventilation by leaving the bathroom door and a window open can also improve the situation and of course you can always apply Tile Doctor Duo-Clean on a regular basis. Once the grout was dry and as clean as it could be, I applied a White Tile Doctor Grout Colourant along the grout lines with a small brush taking care to wipe off any excess from the tiles as I went. Only one bottle of colourant was needed, and I have found baby wipes work well when wiping off the excess. The last step in the bathroom renovation was to strip out all the old mouldy silicone between the bath and the tiles and replace with new mould resistant silicone. The cleaning and grout colour completely transformed the look of the bathroom leaving it looking fresh. The grout which was previously dark and patchy was now a consistent white colour giving the impression it had only been recently tiled. The colourant also forms an epoxy barrier over the grout that will prevent dirt from becoming ingrained in the grouts surface going forward, it’s also much easier to clean. The customer was most impressed with the result and has informed us since that they will back in touch about renovating the grout in their own home! They left the following comment on the Tile Doctor website. “Kamila made a wonderful job cleaning my grout and silicone. The bathroom looks like new. She was also easy to deal, very friendly and professional. Thank you!” Alex Logozny Greater Manchester Tile Doctor

This sweet family of six (3 of those being fur babies) were ready to introduce their newest addition to the family.. in style! The clients' Paris print with the slightest touch of pink accents began our inspiration. The end result was a perfect mix of soft wood tones, bold pattern and gold accents. We were fortunate to meet this newborn last week, and she is already swooned with love and stealing hearts!

A young family of four recently purchased a home with an unfinished basement. Each member of the family had their own opinion of how to use the space: dad wanted a music room, mom loves to dance and have parties, and the children wanted a media/game room where they could hang out with their friends. Fortunately, the basement was big enough to meet all their needs. The renovation includes a secluded sound proof music room that doubles as an office, a home gym with full-length mirrors and a multi-purpose area for dancing and entertaining. A full bar area with sink, dishwasher, microwave, wine cooler and under-the-counter refrigerator features granite countertops and custom cabinetry. Complete with high-back bar stools, it is a great gathering space during the parties the family loves to host. The focal point of the basement is a gas fireplace with ledger stone surround. Mood lighting, sconces, pendants, recessed lights and a disco ball provide plenty of lighting options. Last, but not least, is a high-tech media room with 110” large screen television. Let the games begin!

This partially wooded, acre and a half lot in West Dundee presented many challenges. The clients began working with a Landscape Architect in the early spring, but after not getting the innovative ideas they were seeking, the home builder and Architect suggested the client contact our landscape design/build firm. We immediately hit it off with the charismatic clients. They had a tall order for us: complete the design and implement the construction within a three month period. For many projects this would be a reasonable time frame. However construction delays and the coordination of multiple trades left a very short window to complete the work. Beyond the tight time frame the site required specific care in preserving the many mature surrounding trees, as well as addressing a vast grade change. Over fifteen feet of grade change occurs from one end of this woodland property to the other. All of these constraints proved to be an enormous challenge as we worked to include and coordinate the following elements: the drive layout, a dramatic front entry, various gardens, landscape lighting, irrigation, and a plan for a backyard pool and entertainment space that already had been started without a clear plan. Fortunately, the client loved our design ideas and attention to detail and we were able to mobilize and begin construction. With the seamless coordination between our firm and the builder we implemented all the elements of this grand project. In total eight different crews and five separate trades worked together to complete the landscape. The completed project resulted in a rewarding experience for our firm, the builder and architect, as well as the client. Together we were able to create and construct a perfect oasis for the client that suited the beautiful property and the architecture of this dream home.

Our homeowner approached us first in order to remodel her master suite. Her shower was leaking and she wanted to turn 2 separate closets into one enviable walk in closet. This homeowners projects have been completed in multiple phases. The second phase was focused on the kitchen, laundry room and converting the dining room to an office. View before and after images of the project here: http://www.houzz.com/discussions/4412085/m=23/dining-room-turned-office-in-los-angeles-ca https://www.houzz.com/discussions/4425079/m=23/laundry-room-refresh-in-la https://www.houzz.com/discussions/4440223/m=23/banquette-driven-kitchen-remodel-in-la We feel fortunate that she has such great taste and furnished her home so well! Bedroom: The art on the wall is a piece that the homeowner brought back from a trip to France. The room feels luxe and romantic. Walk in Closet: The walk in closet features built in cabinetry including glass doored cabinets. It offer shoe storage, purse storage and even linens. The walk in closet has recessed lighting. Master Bathroom: The master bathroom offers a make-up desk and plenty of lights and mirrors! Utilizing both pendant and recessed lighting, the bathroom feels bright and white even though it is a combination of white and beige. The white shaker cabinets are contrasted by a dark granite countertop. Favoring a large shower over a tub we were able to include a large niche for storage. The tile and floor are both limestone.

"You only do this once in a lifetime.” That’s what this homeowner told our team about their historic brownstone renovation in downtown Jersey City, and we took it to heart. This project was more than just a renovation; it was also an act of great creativity and care. After all, when you do something once in a lifetime, you want to do it right. We were fortunate to work with a homeowner with a clear, precise vision. Prior to hiring us, the homeowner partnered with an architect to design the space. As such, we handled the project management and practical implementation of the plans. (We also ensured that the work met the requirements of the Jersey City Historic Preservation Board.) This extensive remodel included demolition and rebuilding of a one-story addition in preparation for the installation of a new, modern kitchen. After replacing the original load-bearing brick wall with a steel header, we also leveled the floors and added new engineered hardwood flooring with hydronic radiant underfloor heating for chilly winter days. A completely redone lighting and electrical plan included LED recessed light fixtures, recessed speakers, and motorized transom windows … perfect for letting in some fresh air to compliment the gorgeous natural light streaming in from the skylights. The finished space juxtaposes sleek, ultramodern European appliances, finishes, cabinetry, and fixtures with original, historic woodwork. We completed a new, modern powder room installation and also installed historic door casings, baseboard mouldings, and plaster mouldings. The homeowner was thrilled with the end result, celebrating every carefully-chosen detail. Together, we admired the different light fixtures, the custom kitchen cabinetry, and how the built-in hall closet left just enough space to preserve the historic mouldings beside it. Moments like those make all the hard work worthwhile. Do you have a compelling vision for your space? Then contact Houseplay today; we’ll help to take your idea from concept to finished product. Photo credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

Lisa Kessler
Photo of a rustic full sun stone retaining wall landscape in Boston for spring.

This pool deck was a lot of fun (and work) to install. The sidewalks were poured and stamped first, taking extra care to maintain the proper slope and elevation to make the water run away from the pool but also away from the house. The sidewalk is pinned to the patio with rebar dowels in plastic sleeves to allow for horizontal shifting, but no vertical movement. Expansion foam and caulk prevent chipping on these joints. The borders are poured integrally with the pool deck; they are hand stamped and chiseled in. Lots of patience and attention to detail. I am fortunate to have a great crew.

30 Years of Construction Experience in the Bay Area | Best of Houzz! We are a passionate, family owned/operated local business in the Bay Area, California. At Lavan Construction, we create a fresh and fit environment with over 30 years of experience in building and construction in both domestic and international markets. We have a unique blend of leadership combining expertise in construction contracting and management experience from Fortune 500 companies. We commit to deliver you a world class experience within your budget and timeline while maintaining trust and transparency. At Lavan Construction, we believe relationships are the main component of any successful business and we stand by our motto: “Trust is the foundation we build on.”

Villa Marchese del Grillo Relais-Restaurant-Enoteca For more info & details visit: http://relaismarchesedelgrillo.com/ Katerina Bucciarelli Broker Associate Fortune International Realty 2013 Top Producer. kb@kbmiami.com www.kbmiami.com Photo Credits: Javier Ospina.

Greg Premru This historic restoration and renovation was the cover story for the September / October 2015 issue of Design New England. Working with skilled craftsmen, we salvaged a derelict house and brought it into the 21st century. We were fortunate to design all aspects of the home, from architecture to interiors to the landscape plan!

A place with no comparison, a paradise on earth perfect for oceanfront living lovers. Jade Signature is a unique and iconic residential building coming to life in the beautiful and sought-after Sunny Isles. By assembling the most talented team of international architects and designers, and by having a clear understanding of how people really want to live within such a unique beachside location, Fortune International Group has been able to create a place that people will love to live in. The residences’ extra large, sun-shaded terraces can be accessed via sliding windows, which make every room a dynamic, highly adaptable space. The quality of thought in the design is matched by the quality of the interior finishes. All of these special features make each contemporary house in the sky a grand statement in luxury beachfront living.

New Urban Luxury Private Residence – Alys Beach, Florida Architect: Khoury & Vogt Architects Builder: BRW Builders of Destin E. F. San Juan supplied all the interior and exterior wood millwork for this expertly designed residence adjacent to the snow-white dunes found in the serene New Urban townscape of Alys Beach, Florida. Challenges: The most significant design challenge of this project was to engineer a processing method to fabricate the complex millwork components in mass for the outdoor lounge. Khoury & Vogt Architects created a custom design for an inspiring and elegant outdoor living space. Fortunately, this house had a resourceful and creative team ensuring the vision of the design stayed intact. Solution: The intricate design required a creative approach which entailed high-level fabricating skills. “This project stands out in my mind because it required that I personally design and build numerous jigs,” says Edward San Juan. Taking on the challenge, San Juan designed and handcrafted each jig to the exact specification required for the exterior design. The team at E. F. San Juan continued with the creative approach, integrating and assembling the custom jigs to produce a work of art. The millwork beautifully complements the sleek white design on the deep indoor-outdoor decks, allowing the feel of the surrounding nature to flow inside. The result is a breathtaking and inspiring New Urban home in a luxurious beach town along Scenic Highway 30-A. --- Photography by Jack Gardner

As master of the perfect mix, LaMont Bynum can magically transform a raw space or breathe new life into what already exists. His education in interior design combined with his penchant for problem solving and passion for transforming lives led to him following his calling to become a designer. Lamont thrives on working with clients to refine a vision and make it reality. He believes happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present. LaMont is a native of Suffolk, VA, a small town with a rich heritage. A Southern gentleman, he developed an eye for color, good design and great style early on. He grew up in a family whose love for interior design led to friendly family design competitions. The “creative types” who raised him served as his primary source of inspiration. A graduate of Howard University, Lamont worked in hospitality sales and marketing before opening Rite At Home, Atlanta‘s premier consignment furniture boutique, in 2012. He serves on the Board of Directors for Rebuilding Together Atlanta, an organization working to ensure that low-income homeowners — particularly older adults, military veterans, people with disabilities and families with children — are able to live in warmth, safety and independence. Also, he chairs the Board of Directors for the Adamsville Business and Community Partnership. Lamont is always looking for ways to impact communities through engagement and design. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies to develop their work and fun spaces for employees and even designed their CEO’s personal living spaces. LaMont believes no project is too small or too big, everyone deserves an environment conducive to dream, relax and make life happen. With timeless, sophisticated taste, LaMont’s design style is classy, inviting, and also incredibly detail oriented. His ability to transform both residential homes and commercial projects by layering rich textures, colors, and fabrics has placed him on Atlanta’s Top 25 Designer List four times.

This project consisted of The Grand Staircase in Allen Field House at the University of Kansas and 2 staircases in the adjoining DeBruce center. We went way out of our comfort zone on this project! We created and installed concrete stair treads that were colored and polished with exposed aggregate. The Grand Staircase consisted of nearly 500 square feet of precast concrete. The landing pieces ranged in size from 2 feet by 9 feet to 5.5 feet by 9 feet. After the precast pieces were finished, they were transported from Lenexa to Lawrence, then carefully placed via forklift. The 1 foot by 9 foot stair treads were placed by hand, all 20 of them. In the DeBruce Center, which houses Dr. Naismith’s Original Rules Of Basketball, we completed 2 stairwells that covered 3 stories each. These pieces were much smaller than the Field House stairs, measuring only 2″ thick by 5 foot wide. While these were easier to handle, we created 120 pieces for this half of the project, totaling nearly 500 square feet. While this took us out of our comfort zone, it was an incredible project and we were fortunate to place our artwork there. We were able to overcome the challenges, such as transport and installation of pieces that were much larger than we are accustomed to. We are honored to have our work be in such a historical building for many years to come!