For this whole-home interior design project in Raleigh, NC, our team at Lavish refreshed the main living spaces with a collected, layered look that feels timeless rather than trendy. The living room design centers on a gallery wall of the clients' own art and travel finds, thoughtfully arranged above a supple camel leather sectional and grounded by vintage-inspired lumbar pillows and a concrete-look side table. In the formal dining room, textural botanical wallpaper wraps the vaulted ceiling, while a sculptural cascading chandelier, nailhead-trimmed host chairs, and layered drapery create an elegant setting for entertaining. A guest bedroom design pairs a brass scalloped fan-light fixture with soft blue florals and fluted casegoods for a serene, tailored retreat, and a shagreen console with brass legs and patterned poufs turns a simple hallway into a styled moment. As a full-service interior design firm in Raleigh, NC, Lavish handles everything from space planning and custom window treatments to art curation and final styling — so every room, from the living room to the dining room to the bedrooms, feels intentional and beautifully finished.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

Welcome to our City Vibes Kitchen Design Project, a captivating blend of urban sophistication and practicality. Featuring two-toned white and walnut shaker cabinets, Montauz quartz countertop, teal subway tile in a chevron pattern, brushed gold handles, white pendants with gold leaf detail, and a matte black faucet. Grounding the space are larger floor tiles in a natural tone.

A Modern handle-less German Kitchen featuring our rustic inspired ‘Ikono’ front and ‘Sirius’ front from LEICHT. The coherent use of our two fronts brings out modern elements and highlights the sleekness.The main upper cabinetry is in Sirius in the color Merino with a glass edging effect. The lower cabinetry in Ikono is used to ground the space and in some cases used as upper cabinetry to break the pattern. Lastly, the illuminating hanging geometric lights were used to draw a focal point toward the hanging island of the U-shaped kitchen.

Their South Minneapolis home was built in 1917, and while the home received lots of care and updates over the years, updating the garage had been put on the back burner for way too long. The original 14 X 20-foot garage, of unknown age, was just big enough for a single car. The owners jokingly called it a “Potato House,” as it was built into the ground, similar to a farmer’s out-building to store root vegetables (see before photo). As an Architect, the owner wanted the garage to have a more unusual design than the usual symmetrical gable roof of Minneapolis garages. The simplest way to construct a garage roof is with wood trusses. By simply altering the angles of the wood trusses allowed the structure to have a distinctive, asymmetrical roof design. The new 20 X 20-foot garage easily handles two cars. A single double-wide garage door makes parking cars in the busy alley quick and easy. To meet local construction codes, the South facing wall – five feet from the neighbor’s garage - is constructed with enhanced fire protection. The exterior siding is LP Smart Siding – a pre-finished wood product that is easy to install, durable, and looks great. The rear of the garage (facing the back of the home) uses the original front door of the main home built in 1917, adding character to the project. Three Andersen double pane windows let in ambient light. Although the garage is not heated, a new 120/240 Volt electric service and panel was installed, ready to recharge an electric vehicle. The result: a new, big, easily accessible garage that looks so much better than a “Potato House.” Note: Photos & design by Ken Stone, AIA.

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This project features the installation of premium travertine pavers for a stunning and functional poolside deck. The natural stone brings timeless elegance while providing a cool, slip-resistant surface ideal for Toronto`s sunny climate. Our team ensured a precise layout with a mix of warm and cool tones, perfectly complementing the pool area and enhancing the backyard’s overall aesthetics. From careful ground preparation to the final stone placement, every detail was handled with craftsmanship and durability in mind.

Industry: Building Design and Construction Location: USA The Objective Develop a 3D model for retaining wall design plan meant to block the flood water from a nearby river The Solution Several elements as specified by client were incorporated to design a retaining wall and a detailed 3D model was developed. Technology/Software Used 3Ds Max An environmental consultant had to assess a site and provide a plan to the client for retaining wall design meant to block the flood water from a nearby river from entering the site. Some old hand drawn sketches of a retaining wall structure and a PPT with landscaping plans, was all that was provided. Improvising the basic design and preparing a well rendered 3D model, to facilitate the consultant to give final presentation of the design to the client, was the task. Challenges 1. Client expected a design improvement based on a landscape PPT & some handmade designs developed in 2008. 2. Files were without any exact dimensions or additional inputs from the client 3. No plans, elevations and CAD files were given to support the team for further design revisions and 3D modeling 4. Client’s verbal explanations were to be used as a base to analyze and understand the requirements. 5. Numerous brainstorming sessions, repeated iterations and approvals. 6. Client was accessible only through email and conference call Engineering Solution Retaining the wall to stop flood water from a nearby river entering the area filling it with debris 1. Hi-Tech team deftly handled the communication, approvals and design development process. 2. Built a retaining wall to extend the useful area towards the flood plain of the river. 3. Retaining wall was designed as a 3 stepped structure with property (7 – 8 homes and a swimming pool) at the top. 4. Terraces with trees and shrubs were included. This design feature made the entire wall look like a natural retaining boulder covered with greenery. 5. Narrow walkways and stairs that led to the terrace were incorporated in the design 6. Subterranean garage under the flat ground surface of the property was also included as a part of the design Benefits 1. In a short span of one month, the team managed to develop a fully fledged design and plan for the retention wall. 2. Vacant space was effectively utilized; the stepped wall not only stooped the flood water from entering the client’s property, but also created space for 7-8 homes. 3. The designed structure looked very much a part of the natural terrain, and in fact added to the beauty of the surround

Painting the existing cabinets with soft sage colors gave an updated and charming look to this kitchen. The deeper tone on the lower cabinets helps to ground the kitchen while the lighter uppers lift your eye to give a more spacious feel to the room.

Cool & Contemporary is the vibe our clients were seeking out. Phase 1 complete for this El Paso Westside project. Consistent with the homes architecture and lifestyle creates a space to handle all occasions. Early morning coffee on the patio or around the firepit, smores, drinks, relaxing, reading & maybe a little dancing. Cedar planks set on raw steel post create a cozy atmosphere. Sitting or laying down on cushions and pillows atop the smooth buff leuders limestone bench with your feet popped up on the custom gas firepit. Raw steel veneer, limestone cap and stainless steel fire fixtures complete the sleek contemporary feels. Concrete steps & path lights beam up and accentuates the focal setting. To prep for phase 2, ground cover pathways and areas are ready for the new outdoor movie projector, more privacy, picnic area, permanent seating, landscape and lighting to come.

Beach style entryway photo in Charleston

A ground floor mudroom features a center island bench with lots storage drawers underneath. This bench is a perfect place to sit and lace up hiking boots, get ready for snowshoeing, or just hanging out before a swim. Surrounding the mudroom are more window seats and floor-to-ceiling storage cabinets made in rustic knotty pine architectural millwork. Down the hall, are two changing rooms with separate water closets and in a few more steps, the room opens up to a kitchenette with a large sink. A nearby laundry area is conveniently located to handle wet towels and beachwear. Woodmeister Master Builders made all the custom cabinetry and performed the general contracting. Marcia D. Summers was the interior designer. Greg Premru Photography

This new, ground-up home was recently built atop the Richmond Hills. Despite the beautiful site with its panoramic 270-degree view, the lot had been left undeveloped over the years due to its modest size and challenging approval issues. Saikley Architects handled the negotiations for County approvals, and worked closely with the owner-builder to create a 2,300 sq. ft., three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath family home that maximizes the site’s potential. The first-time owner-builder is a landscape builder by trade, and Saikley Architects coordinated closely with for him on this spec home. Saikley Architects provided building design details which the owner then carried through in many unique interior design and furniture design details throughout the house. Photo by Chi Chin Photography. https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/hilltop-contemporary/

- HERON DOUBLE BED. Bed head in beech multilayer, covered with polyurethane foam in different thicknesses. Bed Structure in beech multilayer, covered with high-density polyurethane foam. Completely removable fabric upholstery. The base is assembled through metallic angles which allow an easy set up with the possibility to regulate the height of the bedspring of 3/4'' at a time, to insert whatever kind of bedspring or mattress. Steel painted bedspring 1''5/8 x 1''5/8, with 40 staves in curved and undulated multilayer of 2''3/4, lumbar rigidity support in the central part. 111''3/8W x 94''1/2D x 52’’H. Bed frame with footboard 78''3/4W x 13''3/8H. Headboard: 88''5/8W x 13''3/4D x 37’’H. Other Width: 76’’. http://ow.ly/3ywWM2 - MIR NIGHTSTAND. Wood furnishing accessories in the finishes: glossy ebony, wengé, leather covered wood. Laser cut ground iron bases in the finishes: bright black nickel, satined bronze. Brown Emperador Dark marble handle. 21"5/8W x 15"3/4D x 20"1/2H. http://ow.ly/3ywWMW - DALIA WHITE LOUNGE CHAIR. Hand carved beechwood wood structure. Paddings in polyurethane foam with seat cushion in sterilized goose down. Leather or fabric covers not removable. Wood finishes: Bleached White, Black, Mocha. 30''3/8W x 31''D x 28''3/8H. Seat height 15’’3/8. http://ow.ly/3ywWPs

Our client bought an older expansive bungalow in Manotick with a stunning waterfront backyard. This beautiful setting became the foundation for our open concept Kitchen and Family Room Design. Besides the usual great functional requirements, the client wanted a ‘Rockstar’ visual kitchen to complement an eclectic collection of Mid-Century Furniture and objects. The reclaimed Northern Wide plank Oak hardwood (colour: Mill creek, collection: Artifax), floor provides a rustic and comfortable grounding to the crisp modernism of the kitchen. The floor is especially practical as the inevitable scratches from the family dog can be easily corrected by the client. The Kitchen features a ‘Bridge’ design of walnut cabinetry surrounding the pro-style fridge and freezer. Other appliances are clustered with demi-tall pantries and form an interesting linear definition that suits the ‘Long’ Room of Kitchen and Family Room. A walnut Eating Bar and walnut interior for the dish pantry complete the triad of walnut in the Kitchen. High gloss white cabinets featuring handle-free design are topped with gray quartz. The stunning Noble Grey light marble backsplash is installed with a Horizontal grain to complement the linear definition. The Family Room features an offset linear fireplace that is balanced with a substantial walnut entertainment unit. The awkward and unmoveable doorway was incorporated into the design to create the effect of a unit that is much larger than it actually is. The walnut wood matches the Kitchen but is installed with a horizontal grain, repeating the character of the kitchen backsplash.

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Talk about bringing a kitchen up to date! Little details like the bin pulls and farmhouse sink give a nod to the distant past, but the general tone for this Hood River kitchen is "today." The white on white palette leaves the homeowner free to accessorize at will, but is grounded by the wood accents and beadboard texture of the cabinetry. The dining nook with beautiful distressed table brings people into the kitchen to enjoy time together and gives the area a homey feeling. Medallion Cabinetry will stand up to many years of use and preserve the look of this lovely kitchen for countless meals and gatherings. As always, the design was carefully curated by Allen's Fine Woodworking to ensure the space allows the homeowner to work smarter, not harder.

Through a major remodel, the K. Rue Designs team led a fabulous design with results of a timeless look featuring black accents, a freestanding tub, and larger shower. Against a beautiful frosted window with thick white trim and wainscoting wall, a stunning black freestanding tub with wall-mount fixture creates a focal point. Neutral gray chevron wood-look tile offers interest white grounding the space. Light painted walls are complemented with elongated white subway tile throughout the shower and a hint of darker contrasting grout. For ambiance, a dark spherical chandelier adorns above the freestanding statement tub. All white cabinetry spans across the opposite wall with light quartz countertops. Black accents emphasized on the mirror frames, industrial lighting, single handle sink faucets, and cabinetry pulls. A sweet, intricate vanity chair entices this simple, yet sophisticated bathroom.

This beautifully transformed primary bathroom perfectly illustrates the shift from basic builder-grade to a custom, designer-grade sanctuary. By balancing rich organic textures with crisp modern lines, we created an airy, spa-like retreat that feels both open and highly functional. Key Design Highlights of This Space: Warm Custom Wood Vanity: A spacious double vanity in a warm, natural oak finish anchors the room, topped with a pristine white engineered quartz countertop and accented with sleek matte black pull handles. Neo-Angle Glass Shower: The custom corner shower features a seamless glass enclosure, classic white subway tile walls, a built-in wooden corner bench, and high-end matte black plumbing fixtures. Soaring Natural Light: A large overhead skylight floods the entire room with brilliant daylight, reflecting off the crisp white walls and beautifully illuminating the transition zones. Sophisticated Accents: Twin round, black-framed mirrors are framed by delicate minimalist pendant lights, adding a touch of contemporary elegance above the sinks. Grounded Foundation: Large-format dark gray slate-look tiles provide a dramatic, durable, and sophisticated foundation that beautifully contrasts the lighter elements of the room.