Description of Waterfront Home Design Challenge: The task was to fill a vast space with 14-foot walls soaring to a peak of 30 feet, using cabinetry that would not appear undervalued or insubstantial. The main question was determining the appropriate height for the cabinetry, considering the scale and proportion of the space, the walk-through to adjoining rooms, window heights, and the height of the refrigerator. Solution: By carefully analyzing these factors, we were able to create cabinetry that perfectly scaled to the grand dimensions of the room. The floor plan featured two islands that effectively filled the space. Key elements included #TheGalley workstations, drop-down televisions, #MouserCabinetry, and secret doors leading to a hidden scullery, all contributing to an extraordinary project.

We recently completed our contribution to the suite renovation project at The Lodge at Ventana Canyon. Over 50 units received a refreshed look that included our countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms, and a suspended 5’ long bench in the luxury shower. The material we used is a leathered finish, “Toffee” Granite. As always, we enjoyed working with the talented Elle Taft, of Lori Carroll Design.

Traditional Hacienda-Style house and guest house in Menlo Park totaling 10,000 square feet by Robinson Architects. Antique roof tiles, rustic beams, hand-hewn floors and other details all contribute to creating an authentic environment but with modern conveniences. Large glass folding doors open up to a terra cotta tiled patio and circular fountain that doubles as a swimming pool. Permeable concrete driveway surfaces lead to a subterranean garage and lower level with exercise room, spa, wine cellar and theatre. Yellow Osage cut-stone flank the wrought-iron entry gates. Milled rafter tails give a sturdy foundation for the stacked antique roof tiles complete with lichen. Copper details including clad windows with a living-finish continue to patina and provide richness with each passing year.

Photography Robin Hill & Chance Stillman The renovation of this contemporary residence and garden is deeply inspired by its subtropical context, utilizing horizontal lines to ground the home and connect its occupants to nature. When considering how to make the most impactful intervention, the design team focused mainly on horizontal roof planes, subtropical landscaping and an abundance of clerestory windows that would all contribute to the home’s integration with its site. In contrast to the tropes of a Palm Beach traditional vernacular, this home seeks to re-establish itself within nature as a place for a young family. Architectural strategies included dematerializing the surrounding walls and expanding the roof eaves to connect the interior spaces with the surrounding gardens of the home. The site plan is organized around four main pavilions: A bedroom pavilion to the south, a cabana pavilion to the west, a garage pavilion to the north, and a central living pavilion. Each of the three pavilions engage with the central living space while still allowing nature to flow between them. The pavilions are organized around the pool deck, equipped with zero-edge detailing and layered subtropical landscaping. In this way the swimming pool doubles as a recreational component to the program but also as a mirror to expand views and reflect the surrounding landscape. A glass bridge serves as the garden threshold between the garage and the home. The renovated home and garden departs from its former Bahamian style and stands out within the community as a symbol for the future of architecture and landscape architecture within this quiet, ocean-front community. A residence derived from, and in response to, its user and environmental context; thus, re-establishing it with place. Scale 1 ACRE Scope HARDSCAPE, SWIMMING POOL + PLANTING DESIGN Year 2022 Architecture KODA Landscape Architecture LandFluent General Contractor PB Built Landscape Contractor Rood Landscape

Contemporary Design: Clean lines, smooth surfaces, and a minimalist layout contribute to a refined and polished look. • High-Gloss Wood Cabinetry: The warm, glossy wood finish adds richness and elegance while reflecting natural light beautifully. • Quartzite Countertops: The large, beautiful island features a striking stone surface that enhances the luxurious feel. • High-End Appliances: Integrated appliances, including a built-in refrigerator and stainless steel range hood, suggest a premium-grade kitchen setup. • Open Concept with a View: Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light and showcase stunning cityscape views, giving it a high-end, urban penthouse vibe. • Functional Luxury: The seating at the island, spacious layout, and smart appliance placement make it both beautiful and highly functional.

Portabella stained bamboo base cabinets and island with crystal white wall cabinets provide the backdrop for this modern kitchen. The slab doors, floating shelves and square lines contribute to the minimalist design. A geometric pattern backsplash adds depth to the space while solid white quartz countertops pulls the look together. Finishing touches include a custom range hood with a brushed nickel skirt and brushed nickel hardware.

Completed in partnership with LAM Studios Inc., this Fall 2024 renovation transformed multiple areas of a Dilworth home into a cohesive, functional, and beautifully updated living environment. The project included a complete kitchen remodel, living room renovation, bathroom remodel, laundry room update, dining room renovation, fireplace enhancement, and hallway improvements. The kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the renovation, featuring improved functionality, modern finishes, and a layout designed to support everyday living and entertaining. Adjacent living and dining spaces were thoughtfully redesigned to create a seamless flow throughout the home, while the updated fireplace provides a warm and inviting focal point. Additional improvements to the bathroom, laundry room, and hallway enhanced both comfort and efficiency, ensuring every space contributes to the home's overall functionality and style. Through careful planning, quality craftsmanship, and timeless design choices, this renovation successfully blends modern living with lasting elegance. The result is a beautifully refreshed home that feels brighter, more connected, and perfectly tailored to the homeowners' lifestyle.

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

This 4 bedroom (2 en suite), 4.5 bath home features vertical board–formed concrete expressed both outside and inside, complemented by exposed structural steel, Western Red Cedar siding, gray stucco, and hot rolled steel soffits. An outdoor patio features a covered dining area and fire pit. Hydronically heated with a supplemental forced air system; a see-through fireplace between dining and great room; Henrybuilt cabinetry throughout; and, a beautiful staircase by MILK Design (Chicago). The owner contributed to many interior design details, including tile selection and layout.

Nestled on a meticulously manicured lot in Flowery Branch, GA, this home boasts an elegant design that seamlessly marries aesthetic appeal with practicality. The exterior showcases a grand three-car garage and a multi-gable roof adorned with charming gabled brackets, featuring a striking combination of brick and shake siding. As you step inside, barn-door style openings lead you into a delightful interior. The kitchen, thoughtfully positioned at varying angles for visual interest, boasts a delightful blend of custom white upper cabinets and gray lower cabinets. Stainless steel appliances and a butler’s pantry enhance the functionality of this culinary space. Hardwood floors grace the living areas, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The kitchen effortlessly flows into the family room, where an exposed beam vaulted ceiling adds character. A brick fireplace, built-in cabinets, and bookshelves contribute to the cozy atmosphere. Connecting seamlessly with the outdoors, the family room opens to an outdoor living space featuring an inviting fireplace, flagstone flooring, and a wood-inlaid vaulted ceiling. The master bedroom is a retreat in itself, adorned with an exposed beam ceiling, hardwood flooring, and a generously sized walk-in closet complete with ample shelving, drawers, and hanging space. The master bath exudes luxury, offering his and her vanities, a walk-in shower, a standalone soaking tub, and a water closet. Special features abound in this home, including a bonus/media room with its own wet bar, an office for added functionality, and a spacious mudroom to keep things organized. The outdoor living space is equally impressive, featuring a flagstone patio and a peanut-shaped in-ground pool complemented by an adjacent hot tub. This residence is a testament to thoughtful design, combining aesthetics with practical features to create a truly inviting and luxurious living space.

The homeowner’s existing master bath had a single sink where the current vanity/make-up area is and a closet where the current sinks are. It wasn’t much of a master bath. Design Objectives: -Two sinks and more counter space -Separate vanity/make-up area with seating and task lighting -A pop of color to add character and offset black and white elements -Fun floor tile that makes a statement -Define the space as a true master bath Design challenges included: -Finding a location for two sinks -Finding a location for a vanity/make-up area -Opening up and brightening a small, narrow space THE RENEWED SPACE Removing a closet and reorganizing the sink and counter layout in such small space dramatically changed the feel of this bathroom. We also removed a small wall that was at the end of the old closet. With the toilet/shower area opened up, more natural light enters and bounces around the room. The white quartz counters, a lighted mirror and updated lighting above the new sinks contribute greatly to the new open feel. A new door in a slightly shifted doorway is another new feature that brings privacy and a true master bath feel to the suite. Bold black and white elements and a pop color add the kind of statement feel that can be found throughout the rest of the house.

The “Haverhill” is a simply elegant Georgian-style home. Symmetry and order are balanced by decorative details, all of which contribute to the authenticity of the design. Arched rooflines, copper dormers and stone masonry are just a few of the creative touches found on this home’s exterior. Inside, living spaces are comfortable and open, with the kitchen, dining, sitting, and living areas connected. Multiple office and workspaces, as well as a screened porch and large patio are also included on in the main level floor plan. The upper level features a large master bedroom, bathroom and connected laundry facility, as well as a home office and double en suite guest rooms.

Austin Street Buils A Custom Urban Residence by Seven Rivers Design + Build Highlight The defining feature of the Austin St. Build is the use of natural plaster walls throughout the interior. Plaster brings a quiet richness—subtle texture, visual depth, and a sense of solidity that makes the home feel both timeless and grounded. This material choice reinforces Seven Rivers Design + Build’s focus on craftsmanship and tactile, human-centered design. Detail Efficient Two-Story Living This 1,500-square-foot, two-story custom home is thoughtfully organized for comfort and flow. The main level includes a bedroom and full bathroom, along with an open kitchen and living area and a conveniently placed powder room. A light-filled, open stairwell leads to the second floor, which houses an additional bedroom and bathroom, creating a balanced and flexible layout well suited for urban living. High-Performance Building Envelope The exterior walls are constructed using Hebel Block (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete)—a high-performance building system that combines structural strength with excellent insulation. By incorporating air into the concrete matrix, Hebel Block delivers superior thermal performance while remaining lightweight and durable, contributing to the home’s overall energy efficiency. Energy-Efficient Comfort Systems Heating and cooling loads are intentionally minimized through envelope performance and system design. The home features in-floor radiant heating as the primary heat source, complemented by mini-split systems for supplemental heating and cooling. The result is a comfortable, efficient living environment with low operational demands. Durable, Timeless Finishes Windows: Andersen E-Series (aluminum-clad) Flooring: Natural slate on the main level Exterior Cladding: Traditional stucco Roof: Standing-seam metal Each material was selected for longevity, performance, and aesthetic restraint—supporting a home that will age gracefully over decades. The Seven Rivers Design + Build Approach The Austin St. Build exemplifies Seven Rivers Design + Build’s design/build philosophy: integrating architecture, materials, and systems into a cohesive whole. By pairing traditional finishes with modern building science, this project delivers a refined, efficient custom home that feels both contemporary and enduring.

The Twin Peaks Passive House + ADU was designed and built to remain resilient in the face of natural disasters. Fortunately, the same great building strategies and design that provide resilience also provide a home that is incredibly comfortable and healthy while also visually stunning. This home’s journey began with a desire to design and build a house that meets the rigorous standards of Passive House. Before beginning the design/ construction process, the homeowners had already spent countless hours researching ways to minimize their global climate change footprint. As with any Passive House, a large portion of this research was focused on building envelope design and construction. The wall assembly is combination of six inch Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) and 2x6 stick frame construction filled with blown in insulation. The roof assembly is a combination of twelve inch SIPs and 2x12 stick frame construction filled with batt insulation. The pairing of SIPs and traditional stick framing allowed for easy air sealing details and a continuous thermal break between the panels and the wall framing. Beyond the building envelope, a number of other high performance strategies were used in constructing this home and ADU such as: battery storage of solar energy, ground source heat pump technology, Heat Recovery Ventilation, LED lighting, and heat pump water heating technology. In addition to the time and energy spent on reaching Passivhaus Standards, thoughtful design and carefully chosen interior finishes coalesce at the Twin Peaks Passive House + ADU into stunning interiors with modern farmhouse appeal. The result is a graceful combination of innovation, durability, and aesthetics that will last for a century to come. Despite the requirements of adhering to some of the most rigorous environmental standards in construction today, the homeowners chose to certify both their main home and their ADU to Passive House Standards. From a meticulously designed building envelope that tested at 0.62 ACH50, to the extensive solar array/ battery bank combination that allows designated circuits to function, uninterrupted for at least 48 hours, the Twin Peaks Passive House has a long list of high performance features that contributed to the completion of this arduous certification process. The ADU was also designed and built with these high standards in mind. Both homes have the same wall and roof assembly ,an HRV, and a Passive House Certified window and doors package. While the main home includes a ground source heat pump that warms both the radiant floors and domestic hot water tank, the more compact ADU is heated with a mini-split ductless heat pump. The end result is a home and ADU built to last, both of which are a testament to owners’ commitment to lessen their impact on the environment.

A new home for two, generating four times more electricity than it uses, including the "fuel" for an electric car. This house makes Net Zero look like child's play. But while the 22kW roof-mounted system is impressive, it's not all about the PV. The design features great energy savings in its careful siting to maximize passive solar considerations such as natural heating and daylighting. Roof overhangs are sized to limit direct sun in the hot summer and to invite the sun during the cold winter months. The construction contributes as well, featuring R40 cellulose-filled double-stud walls, a R50 roof system and triple glazed windows. Heating and cooling are supplied by air source heat pumps. Photos By Ethan Drinker

This home was thoroughly reimagined – architecturally, throughout the interiors, site, and gardens. The vintage bones of the home were enhanced by the design team while every aspect of contemporary living was accommodated – including a yard for two beloved family dogs. The collaboration between client, architect, interior designer, landscape architect and construction team is celebrated in the result. A composed garden space was formed around a spectacular Cork Oak. This tree was brought in to mediate the view of the neighboring Temple Emanu-El. Additional mature plantings, citrus trees, flowers, and a softly burbling fountain contribute to the comfort of the flowing space. The drive court melds into the garden space with stairway access to an expansive terrace above. From this terrace, views of the garden, fountain, greenery, and Temple are enjoyed – with soft lighting extending enjoyment into the evening.

This 1,200 square-foot Provincetown condominium lives large, both functionally and aesthetically, thanks to its recent renovation. The waterfront home, overlooking Cape Cod Bay, is part of an historic grouping of three individual buildings on Commercial Street that have been combined into condominiums. Begun in November 2014 and completed just in time for summer in May 2016, b Architecture Studios and Cape Associates Builders worked with a budget of $366,000 to transform this prosaic dwelling into a stunning light-flooded space—designed to maximize both the living space and the mesmerizing views of the bay. “The space was totally reconfigured,” said project manager Jon Ziperman. “It was a total gut job requiring leveling of floors, straightening of walls, removing a chimney and fireplace that ran up to the above neighbors’ unit.” The renovation also required a complete rewiring and plumbing system that involved wires and pipes that were integrated into the surrounding units. From wall to wall and floor to ceiling, there was nothing that could be salvaged from the original space. One of the most prominent changes was moving the stairway from its original placement, where it originally broke up the living and dining space and blocked views to the bay beyond. The stairway now sits on the opposite side of the condominium. With the stairs tucked to the left side of the living area, the sightline now extends from the entry straight through the living and dining areas to the water. The new design allowed for storage space beneath the stairs, which lead to an airy sleeping loft, and room for a desk niche. A light well, where the former sleeping area was, and new windows bring abundant natural light to the central living area. Innovative features in the entry room include a Murphy bed and sliding glass door separating it from the living area, so that the space can double as a guest room. “The Murphy bed fit in nicely, allowing for a flush wall at the entry/guest room and a desk niche in the adjacent room,” Brown said. “Convincing the client to create the wrap-around chair rail, lined up with the divided lights of the sliding glass door, makes a purposeful connection in a small space.” Neolith countertops in the open kitchen and details like the flush minimal baseboard contribute to the sleek, modern aesthetic, now complemented by the owner’s contemporary furnishings. This complete renovation has rendered this compact home worthy of its beautiful setting.

This kitchen is a stunning embodiment of contemporary chic design with craftsman-style influences. The focal point is the chic Lyptus cabinets, crafted in a peppercorn stain, complemented by black nickel hardware that adds a sleek, modern edge. Exotic blue granite and Blue Storm granite countertops provide vibrant accents, with a dramatic waterwall countertop adding unique visual intrigue. The clear and frosted glass bricks create a luminous blue glass block wall, harmonizing beautifully with the granite surfaces. The angled corner and raised bar enhance the kitchen's functionality and flow, while the peninsula offers additional workspace and seating. Frameless Dura Supreme cabinets and frosted glass doors contribute to the streamlined aesthetic, while cherry coffee glaze details provide a warm and sophisticated touch. The full granite backsplash and glass tile elements add texture and dimension to the design. The chimney hood serves as a focal point, blending style with practicality, while Miele appliances, including double ovens, ensure top-tier functionality. This is a space where cutting-edge design meets timeless craftsmanship, resulting in a bold and elegant kitchen tailored for everyday use and entertaining.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.