Search results for "Incorporating radiant" in Home Design Ideas

Photo credit Michael Partenio
This new home takes advantage of a beautiful hilltop site. The outdoor spaces function as an extension of the house and support the family’s casual, sports-oriented lifestyle. The design, for a family of seven, provides spaces for individual privacy and family gatherings.
The design challenge was to incorporate a number of sustainable features into the design. The south-facing roof is integrated with a 5-kilowatt photovoltaic system, generating electricity for the home and furnishing emergency backup power. The heating is exclusively radiant with high efficiency boilers partially burning biofuel. Measures taken to produce an efficient building envelope include a drainage plane behind the siding, spray foam insulation, and high performance, insulated window glass.

This gorgeous home, situated in the Commonwealth subdivision of the Galisteo Basin Preserve, was designed to accommodate the beautiful but sometimes harsh weather of the Basin. Built around an inner courtyard, buffered to the somewhat inclement conditions, it allows for seasonal year around enjoyment. The floor to ceiling windows, European Reynaers Aluminum, were imported from Ireland, and appear as glassy walls that disappear into pocketing doors ensuring magnificent wraparound views.
The grand entrance, encased with an oversized custom steel and brass entry door, with glass side panel and transom, open up to soaring illuminated recessed lit ceilings. Porcelain tile floors seamlessly transition between interior/exterior. An impressive 3-sided Ortal fireplace provides warmth and coziness encapsulating the entire great room. The excellence of the materials and exclusive nature of the finishes are expressed in a tailored and sophisticated manner.
The 4,332 heated per square foot home is designed with two Master Suite wings that spin off the main great room. The state-of-the-art kitchen is sleek and spacious with an expansive island comprised of Elegant Brown granite countertops, luxury modern Italian Poliform custom cabinets and high-end Gaggenau appliances. The home has a highly efficient engineered heating/cooling system with heat radiant floors and Unico air conditioning.
A detached guest casita/art studio sits adjacent to the main house, on a lushly landscaped protected courtyard. The exterior landscaping is organically integrated into the natural terrain, incorporating a bocce ball court, walking labyrinth, sculpture and water features.
AWARDS
2016 AIA Santa Fe Design Excellence: Citation Award- Single Family Home
PUBLICATIONS
Santa Fe New Mexican – HOME/Santa Fe Real Estate Guide– January 2017 – A Courtyard Centered Gem in the Galisteo Basin
Western Art & Architecture Magazine – February/March 2016 – Finding Home
TESTIMONIAL
After researching several builders in Santa Fe and then interviewing the ones of interest, we decided on Will Prull as he seemed to instantly connect to what we wanted and how to achieve it. He was also highly recommended by our architect. Our Project Manager was excellent and helped us make decisions that creep up between the plans and the actual building. Our house won the AIA award in 2016 for Santa Fe. When choosing your builder, the most important thing is that your Project Manager understands your direction and has your best interests at heart. Our's did!
ARCHITECT
Hoopes + Associates Architects, , Santa Fe, NM
INTERIORS
Paul Rau Interiors, Santa Fe, NM
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Sequis + Associates Landscape Architecture, Santa Fe, NM

Kitchen
• This two-story kitchen is built against the old south side of the carriage house. The original half timbering had been hidden by a chimney added in the 1950’s. We removed the chimney to expose the woodwork which was still intact. It was incorporated into the new kitchen
• The custom cabinets are topped by granite slabs that had been in the Owner’s family restaurant for years.
• The Owner’s found the original stained glass chandelier in a local antique store. We had it refurbished and electrically refit to become a perfect complement to the new kitchen.
• The wide planked, dark stained wood floors are heated with a hydroponic radiant heat system.
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This early 20th century Indianapolis, IN basement remodel was in desperate need of help. The original and still operating hydronic radiant heating system had its plumbing configured without regard to any other use of the space. Fearful of harming the aged system and the high cost of doing so, these Clients were adamant that the existing system remain intact. Architect Lee Constantine developed a design that maintained the existing heating system while creating "niches" around the perimeter that would conceal the unsightly plumbing. Additionally, by removing free-standing structural supporting posts, amore flexible and inviting space was achieved. Because of an already low ceiling condition, the floor-ceiling structure above was kept exposed, painted and highlighted with indirect lighting to avoid further reducing the ceiling height. Constantine incorporated "clouds" on this ceiling to conceal certain existing components that either were cost prohibitive to relocate or couldn't be relocated. These "clouds"become a "visual element" through their geometry and hidden "indirect" light source rather than an undesirable complication. Now this family entertains frequently in the basement and reports "it doesn't feel like we're in a basement anymore"

There were a few difficulties in making this kitchen any better than how it was. There was a separate staircase that had access to the second floor which was located in the kitchen. This left just enough room to push the dining room to one side. Then, there was the porch. A really nice panoramic view of the back, but was somehow under-used by the family during the summer months. Then, it was the size of the kitchen. It simply was way too small for a growing family, and while it had a peninsular in place, the flow just didn’t work. I remember watching them one day demonstrating how awkward it was using the kitchen. We got it! We had our marching orders to go and figure out how to make this kitchen work for this family.
Everything in the room was fair play. The design was done to make the kitchen very open. For a few ideas, we incorporated the porch in the kitchen by using the nana wall idea but it ended up being too cost prohibitive to do so. We then decided to do a permanent fix by using a commercial glass wall application. Once we figured that out, we moved back inside and removed the staircase. This gave us two added benefits. One allowed us to really reconfigure the kitchen and the other opened up the second floor for a huge built in closet system.
We relocated the windows, added a fire place with a built In TV above. From there, it was onto the kitchen itself which contained a huge Island with seating, large kitchen sink and built in appliances which was set up in a way to take advantage of the new layout. We re-positioned the kitchen facing the beautiful views outside rather than looking towards a wall. Now, when you enter the house up the entry stairs, the kitchen now draws you into the magnificent new open space. This is now setup for entertaining, relaxation, hanging out and most of all, preparing meals in a room where you only have to leave if you want to.
This one was all about the design. Design was what made this space. Setting this space up for success was crucial, and this kitchen is a great example of how design can cover a multitude of sins in Kitchen designs.
… Just close your eyes for a second and imagine waking up one winter morning and having a cup of coffee and watching the snow fall through those huge windows, leaning up against those 3D feature walls while watching the kids sitting around the table enjoying those warm radiant heated floors in this spacious kitchen…..

Originally built in 1929 and designed by famed architect Albert Farr who was responsible for the Wolf House that was built for Jack London in Glen Ellen, this building has always had tremendous historical significance. In keeping with tradition, the new design incorporates intricate plaster crown moulding details throughout with a splash of contemporary finishes lining the corridors. From venetian plaster finishes to German engineered wood flooring this house exhibits a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary styles. Many of the rooms contain reclaimed wood paneling, discretely faux-finished Trufig outlets and a completely integrated Savant Home Automation system. Equipped with radiant flooring and forced air-conditioning on the upper floors as well as a full fitness, sauna and spa recreation center at the basement level, this home truly contains all the amenities of modern-day living. The primary suite area is outfitted with floor to ceiling Calacatta stone with an uninterrupted view of the Golden Gate bridge from the bathtub. This building is a truly iconic and revitalized space.

THE SETUP
The original L-shaped guest bathroom, primarily utilized by the client’s young nephews, presented several design challenges. The entry door’s placement at the top of the stairs created an awkward flow, while the lack of natural light and the sectioned-off toilet and shower area contributed to a cramped and dimly lit ambiance.
Design Objectives:
Reconfigure the floor plan to improve guest access and circulation
Create a versatile space that accommodates both young guests and adult needs
Introduce natural light to brighten the overall ambiance
Incorporate a tub/shower combination suitable for children while meeting adult requirements
Design Challenges:
Relocating the entry door to a more functional position
Finding an optimal layout to open up the entire bathroom as a unified space
Maximizing natural light and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere
Updating the tub/shower area with a refreshed look while ensuring child-friendly features
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Reconfigured floor plan with the entry door relocated to the main hallway for seamless guest access
Removal of the dividing wall separating the toilet and tub/shower area, enabling an open, spacious layout
Strategic placement of a window to flood the space with natural light. Also – careful selection of materials and finishes contributing to the bright and airy aesthetic
Inclusion of a handheld showerhead serving as a lower shower option for young guests
The new floor plan and the introduction of natural light have transformed this guest bathroom into a radiant, welcoming space. The dual vanity sinks and tall storage cabinet cater to versatile needs, while the terracotta floor tiles harmonize beautifully with the overall design, adding warmth and style. The decision to keep a shower curtain for the tub/shower combination enhances the open and airy feel. Thoughtful details, such as the gear-inspired faucet handles and complementary light fixtures above the mirrors, add a touch of edgy sophistication to this multifunctional guest retreat.

BEFORE PICTURE. This luxury primary bathroom renovation by Elite Kitchen & Bath transformed an outdated space into a modern spa retreat with refined architectural detailing and high-end finishes. The design features a steam shower with a heated bench, floating Italian cabinetry, seamless glass detailing, textured soaking tub, and natural light integration that enhances both function and serenity.
This full gut renovation transformed an outdated primary bathroom in a suburban modern home into a serene spa-inspired retreat centered around natural light, privacy, and architectural simplicity. The clients wanted a highly functional luxury bathroom that felt calm, open, and refined while incorporating premium materials, modern detailing, and wellness-focused features.
The project scope included:
• Complete demolition and redesign of the existing bathroom
• Reconfiguration of the shower and tub layout
• Installation of custom Italian cabinetry and integrated storage
• Full slab-style porcelain wall and floor applications
• Structural modifications to accommodate a new shower transom
• Integration of radiant comfort and steam shower features
The primary objectives were to:
• Create a spa-like atmosphere with a minimalist aesthetic
• Increase privacy within the shower area without sacrificing natural light
• Minimize visual clutter through seamless detailing
• Improve comfort and daily functionality
• Introduce layered luxury through material selection and architectural detailing
Key features included a steam shower with heated bench, frameless glass shower enclosure with minimal visible metal, floating Italian cabinetry, recessed features, a sculptural textured soaking tub, and carefully positioned natural light at the makeup area to eliminate the need for traditional vanity lighting.

Unmatched sophistication on Castle Point Terrace with world class New York City and Hudson River views. The innovative design of this unique home incorporates mid-century design characteristics for the 21st century; harmonious indoor/outdoor flow, expert use of organic materials & smart, elegant built-in cabinetry. Designed & built by award-winning Hoboken architect, John Nastasi, 907 Castle Point is in a class of its own. The sun-filled kitchen features a large Calacatta marble island with Wolf, SubZero and Viking appliances, built-in Mahogany banquette and distinctive pine ceilings. Completing the parlor floor is the formal living room, family room with built in entertainment center and convenient powder room. The rear yard, an extension of the living space, features an Ipé deck with glass railings, flamed limestone patio, pristine lawn, irrigated all season garden and a unique stainless steel plunge pool.
Steel stair case leads to the garden level offering a private bedroom/office with powder room that is easily converted to a full bath for the perfect in-law or au pair suite. The top floor master retreat features dramatic windows, en-suite terrace, gas fireplace and sitting room with built-in mahogany wet bar. Rivaling many spas, the master bathroom features timeless teak vanity, oversized walk-in shower and freestanding concrete soaking tub with dramatic 3form organics backdrop.
Additional fine details through this extraordinary home include 5+ bedrooms, 3 full baths , 2 half baths, hand scraped walnut floors, radiant heated floors throughout, security system with cameras, Elan sound system, blackout and sheer window treatments, recessed gallery lighting, floor outlets, full laundry room with laundry chute, and multi-zone HVAC system. Welcoming you at the end of Castle Point Terrace is Hoboken’s Elysian Park as well as easy access to NYC bus, ferry and private rental parking garages.

This gorgeous home, situated in the Commonwealth subdivision of the Galisteo Basin Preserve, was designed to accommodate the beautiful but sometimes harsh weather of the Basin. Built around an inner courtyard, buffered to the somewhat inclement conditions, it allows for seasonal year around enjoyment. The floor to ceiling windows, European Reynaers Aluminum, were imported from Ireland, and appear as glassy walls that disappear into pocketing doors ensuring magnificent wraparound views.
The grand entrance, encased with an oversized custom steel and brass entry door, with glass side panel and transom, open up to soaring illuminated recessed lit ceilings. Porcelain tile floors seamlessly transition between interior/exterior. An impressive 3-sided Ortal fireplace provides warmth and coziness encapsulating the entire great room. The excellence of the materials and exclusive nature of the finishes are expressed in a tailored and sophisticated manner.
The 4,332 heated per square foot home is designed with two Master Suite wings that spin off the main great room. The state-of-the-art kitchen is sleek and spacious with an expansive island comprised of Elegant Brown granite countertops, luxury modern Italian Poliform custom cabinets and high-end Gaggenau appliances. The home has a highly efficient engineered heating/cooling system with heat radiant floors and Unico air conditioning.
A detached guest casita/art studio sits adjacent to the main house, on a lushly landscaped protected courtyard. The exterior landscaping is organically integrated into the natural terrain, incorporating a bocce ball court, walking labyrinth, sculpture and water features.
AWARDS
2016 AIA Santa Fe Design Excellence: Citation Award- Single Family Home
PUBLICATIONS
Santa Fe New Mexican – HOME/Santa Fe Real Estate Guide– January 2017 – A Courtyard Centered Gem in the Galisteo Basin
Western Art & Architecture Magazine – February/March 2016 – Finding Home
TESTIMONIAL
After researching several builders in Santa Fe and then interviewing the ones of interest, we decided on Will Prull as he seemed to instantly connect to what we wanted and how to achieve it. He was also highly recommended by our architect. Our Project Manager was excellent and helped us make decisions that creep up between the plans and the actual building. Our house won the AIA award in 2016 for Santa Fe. When choosing your builder, the most important thing is that your Project Manager understands your direction and has your best interests at heart. Our's did!
ARCHITECT
Hoopes + Associates Architects, , Santa Fe, NM
INTERIORS
Paul Rau Interiors, Santa Fe, NM
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Sequis + Associates Landscape Architecture, Santa Fe, NM

This gorgeous home, situated in the Commonwealth subdivision of the Galisteo Basin Preserve, was designed to accommodate the beautiful but sometimes harsh weather of the Basin. Built around an inner courtyard, buffered to the somewhat inclement conditions, it allows for seasonal year around enjoyment. The floor to ceiling windows, European Reynaers Aluminum, were imported from Ireland, and appear as glassy walls that disappear into pocketing doors ensuring magnificent wraparound views.
The grand entrance, encased with an oversized custom steel and brass entry door, with glass side panel and transom, open up to soaring illuminated recessed lit ceilings. Porcelain tile floors seamlessly transition between interior/exterior. An impressive 3-sided Ortal fireplace provides warmth and coziness encapsulating the entire great room. The excellence of the materials and exclusive nature of the finishes are expressed in a tailored and sophisticated manner.
The 4,332 heated per square foot home is designed with two Master Suite wings that spin off the main great room. The state-of-the-art kitchen is sleek and spacious with an expansive island comprised of Elegant Brown granite countertops, luxury modern Italian Poliform custom cabinets and high-end Gaggenau appliances. The home has a highly efficient engineered heating/cooling system with heat radiant floors and Unico air conditioning.
A detached guest casita/art studio sits adjacent to the main house, on a lushly landscaped protected courtyard. The exterior landscaping is organically integrated into the natural terrain, incorporating a bocce ball court, walking labyrinth, sculpture and water features.
AWARDS
2016 AIA Santa Fe Design Excellence: Citation Award- Single Family Home
PUBLICATIONS
Santa Fe New Mexican – HOME/Santa Fe Real Estate Guide– January 2017 – A Courtyard Centered Gem in the Galisteo Basin
Western Art & Architecture Magazine – February/March 2016 – Finding Home
TESTIMONIAL
After researching several builders in Santa Fe and then interviewing the ones of interest, we decided on Will Prull as he seemed to instantly connect to what we wanted and how to achieve it. He was also highly recommended by our architect. Our Project Manager was excellent and helped us make decisions that creep up between the plans and the actual building. Our house won the AIA award in 2016 for Santa Fe. When choosing your builder, the most important thing is that your Project Manager understands your direction and has your best interests at heart. Our's did!
ARCHITECT
Hoopes + Associates Architects, , Santa Fe, NM
INTERIORS
Paul Rau Interiors, Santa Fe, NM
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Sequis + Associates Landscape Architecture, Santa Fe, NM

There were a few difficulties in making this kitchen any better than how it was. There was a separate staircase that had access to the second floor which was located in the kitchen. This left just enough room to push the dining room to one side. Then, there was the porch. A really nice panoramic view of the back, but was somehow under-used by the family during the summer months. Then, it was the size of the kitchen. It simply was way too small for a growing family, and while it had a peninsular in place, the flow just didn’t work. I remember watching them one day demonstrating how awkward it was using the kitchen. We got it! We had our marching orders to go and figure out how to make this kitchen work for this family.
Everything in the room was fair play. The design was done to make the kitchen very open. For a few ideas, we incorporated the porch in the kitchen by using the nana wall idea but it ended up being too cost prohibitive to do so. We then decided to do a permanent fix by using a commercial glass wall application. Once we figured that out, we moved back inside and removed the staircase. This gave us two added benefits. One allowed us to really reconfigure the kitchen and the other opened up the second floor for a huge built in closet system.
We relocated the windows, added a fire place with a built In TV above. From there, it was onto the kitchen itself which contained a huge Island with seating, large kitchen sink and built in appliances which was set up in a way to take advantage of the new layout. We re-positioned the kitchen facing the beautiful views outside rather than looking towards a wall. Now, when you enter the house up the entry stairs, the kitchen now draws you into the magnificent new open space. This is now setup for entertaining, relaxation, hanging out and most of all, preparing meals in a room where you only have to leave if you want to.
This one was all about the design. Design was what made this space. Setting this space up for success was crucial, and this kitchen is a great example of how design can cover a multitude of sins in Kitchen designs.
… Just close your eyes for a second and imagine waking up one winter morning and having a cup of coffee and watching the snow fall through those huge windows, leaning up against those 3D feature walls while watching the kids sitting around the table enjoying those warm radiant heated floors in this spacious kitchen…..

This luxury primary bathroom renovation by Elite Kitchen & Bath transformed an outdated space into a modern spa retreat with refined architectural detailing and high-end finishes. The design features a steam shower with a heated bench, floating Italian cabinetry, seamless glass detailing, textured soaking tub, and natural light integration that enhances both function and serenity.
This full gut renovation transformed an outdated primary bathroom in a suburban modern home into a serene spa-inspired retreat centered around natural light, privacy, and architectural simplicity. The clients wanted a highly functional luxury bathroom that felt calm, open, and refined while incorporating premium materials, modern detailing, and wellness-focused features.
The project scope included:
• Complete demolition and redesign of the existing bathroom
• Reconfiguration of the shower and tub layout
• Installation of custom Italian cabinetry and integrated storage
• Full slab-style porcelain wall and floor applications
• Structural modifications to accommodate a new shower transom
• Integration of radiant comfort and steam shower features
The primary objectives were to:
• Create a spa-like atmosphere with a minimalist aesthetic
• Increase privacy within the shower area without sacrificing natural light
• Minimize visual clutter through seamless detailing
• Improve comfort and daily functionality
• Introduce layered luxury through material selection and architectural detailing
Key features included a steam shower with heated bench, frameless glass shower enclosure with minimal visible metal, floating Italian cabinetry, recessed features, a sculptural textured soaking tub, and carefully positioned natural light at the makeup area to eliminate the need for traditional vanity lighting.

From the plum-brown limewashed walls to the curated mix of antique and contemporary elements, this en suite primary bath exudes quiet luxury. The inspiration for this space began with the early 20th century English washstand. The warm wood, Carrara marble top, and striking backsplash featuring original Racing Green pool glazed tiles set the tone for the rest of the room’s materials palette. To help transform the piece into a functioning modern day vanity, we added custom brass feet, new cabinet and drawer hardware, and an offset matte stone sink paired with a brushed brass single handle faucet.
We kept the space feeling relaxed and not too formal by incorporating fun, current silhouettes for the rest of our selections. A repeating pill-shaped motif shows up in the statement-making light fixtures, tub filler, hanging planters, and tub-side mirrored table. Similarly, reeded/fluted patterns can be found on the pocket door glass, bathroom accessories, artwork, and louvered linen closet door.
On the walls, natural limewash in the moody shade “Anise” from Bauwerk Color has been treated with a hand-burnished wax coating, making the textured surface safe for use in wet spaces. The suede-like finish adds rich character to the space, changing with the varying sunlight throughout the day. We’ve used a two-tone hexagon mosaic floor tile in both classic Carrara and dramatic Nero Marquina to help delineate the wet and dry halves of the bathroom. The soaking tub is placed on a 4” angled platform, breaking up the floor plan and making the space more dynamic.
Radiant heat floors, a hidden medicine cabinet, extra wide tiled shower niche, and new privacy glass windows are a few more features balancing form and function.

This luxury primary bathroom renovation by Elite Kitchen & Bath transformed an outdated space into a modern spa retreat with refined architectural detailing and high-end finishes. The design features a steam shower with a heated bench, floating Italian cabinetry, seamless glass detailing, textured soaking tub, and natural light integration that enhances both function and serenity.
This full gut renovation transformed an outdated primary bathroom in a suburban modern home into a serene spa-inspired retreat centered around natural light, privacy, and architectural simplicity. The clients wanted a highly functional luxury bathroom that felt calm, open, and refined while incorporating premium materials, modern detailing, and wellness-focused features.
The project scope included:
• Complete demolition and redesign of the existing bathroom
• Reconfiguration of the shower and tub layout
• Installation of custom Italian cabinetry and integrated storage
• Full slab-style porcelain wall and floor applications
• Structural modifications to accommodate a new shower transom
• Integration of radiant comfort and steam shower features
The primary objectives were to:
• Create a spa-like atmosphere with a minimalist aesthetic
• Increase privacy within the shower area without sacrificing natural light
• Minimize visual clutter through seamless detailing
• Improve comfort and daily functionality
• Introduce layered luxury through material selection and architectural detailing
Key features included a steam shower with heated bench, frameless glass shower enclosure with minimal visible metal, floating Italian cabinetry, recessed features, a sculptural textured soaking tub, and carefully positioned natural light at the makeup area to eliminate the need for traditional vanity lighting.

Unmatched sophistication on Castle Point Terrace with world class New York City and Hudson River views. The innovative design of this unique home incorporates mid-century design characteristics for the 21st century; harmonious indoor/outdoor flow, expert use of organic materials & smart, elegant built-in cabinetry. Designed & built by award-winning Hoboken architect, John Nastasi, 907 Castle Point is in a class of its own. The sun-filled kitchen features a large Calacatta marble island with Wolf, SubZero and Viking appliances, built-in Mahogany banquette and distinctive pine ceilings. Completing the parlor floor is the formal living room, family room with built in entertainment center and convenient powder room. The rear yard, an extension of the living space, features an Ipé deck with glass railings, flamed limestone patio, pristine lawn, irrigated all season garden and a unique stainless steel plunge pool.
Steel stair case leads to the garden level offering a private bedroom/office with powder room that is easily converted to a full bath for the perfect in-law or au pair suite. The top floor master retreat features dramatic windows, en-suite terrace, gas fireplace and sitting room with built-in mahogany wet bar. Rivaling many spas, the master bathroom features timeless teak vanity, oversized walk-in shower and freestanding concrete soaking tub with dramatic 3form organics backdrop.
Additional fine details through this extraordinary home include 5+ bedrooms, 3 full baths , 2 half baths, hand scraped walnut floors, radiant heated floors throughout, security system with cameras, Elan sound system, blackout and sheer window treatments, recessed gallery lighting, floor outlets, full laundry room with laundry chute, and multi-zone HVAC system. Welcoming you at the end of Castle Point Terrace is Hoboken’s Elysian Park as well as easy access to NYC bus, ferry and private rental parking garages.

We wanted to give our client the feeling of being in a spa. So we chose colors that would reflect that feeling, warm travertine with hint of aqua. We incorporated a towel warmer and a radiant heating system in the floor that is controlled by a wi-fi programmable thermostat.

Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is located near the historic 1960 Olympic Nordic track, situated on the edge of wetlands and seasonal streams.
The homeowners were previous clients and dreamt of having a retreat in the Sierras away from their home base in Berkeley, CA. Among skiers, bike riders, hikers, and boaters, they found the ideal central location for their home base near Lake Tahoe.
The home is organized as a series of linked spaces, each providing a unique sensory experience and connection to different parts of the site, both vertically and horizontally. The design includes extensive use of glass to create a true indoor/outdoor connection and maximize natural light. At the center of the site are two large fir trees, which the building respectfully wraps around in an L shape to create a focal point in the landscaped courtyard.
A refined, context-driven palette of natural materials including cedar, oak, fir, and steel is used to harmoniously blend in among the surroundings. The construction includes advanced details such as thermally broken steel beams supporting layered roof planes engineered to hold snow rather than shed it. Designed to resist significant load, we exposed the steel structure as a recurring element in the interior spaces. The resulting columns and support beams contribute to the familiar design aspects of each room and provide a better understanding of how the building was constructed. The second floor features cantilevered volumes that reach out into the nearby evergreen limbs, likening the experience to being in a tree house. The house incorporates features such as radiant heating, solar panels, and operable windows for passive cooling. Fire safety measures include the use of naturally fire-resistant materials, a Class A roof construction, sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping beyond the defensible space.

The Durie house, a classic Dutch colonial stone farmhouse dating to 1811, is one of Haworth’s landmark houses. The owners retained Morpurgo Architects to expand the house to encompass a new kitchen and eating area.
The addition, in keeping with the historic character of the Durie house, extends all of the details of the original and includes an 1800’s stone wall, once part of the façade and now incorporated into the new kitchen. The interior kitchen space soars to a new ceiling height of 15 feet. The high volume allows a second floor loft to become part of the kitchen, through an interior window that looks out on the dining area and through the window wall with glass doors to the expansive yard and red barn beyond.
Existing historic areas were restored and new technology has been added, including radiant heated floors and state-of-the-art home automation systems, thereby blending 1800’s charm and the conveniences of modern times.

This luxury primary bathroom renovation by Elite Kitchen & Bath transformed an outdated space into a modern spa retreat with refined architectural detailing and high-end finishes. The design features a steam shower with a heated bench, floating Italian cabinetry, seamless glass detailing, textured soaking tub, and natural light integration that enhances both function and serenity.
This full gut renovation transformed an outdated primary bathroom in a suburban modern home into a serene spa-inspired retreat centered around natural light, privacy, and architectural simplicity. The clients wanted a highly functional luxury bathroom that felt calm, open, and refined while incorporating premium materials, modern detailing, and wellness-focused features.
The project scope included:
• Complete demolition and redesign of the existing bathroom
• Reconfiguration of the shower and tub layout
• Installation of custom Italian cabinetry and integrated storage
• Full slab-style porcelain wall and floor applications
• Structural modifications to accommodate a new shower transom
• Integration of radiant comfort and steam shower features
The primary objectives were to:
• Create a spa-like atmosphere with a minimalist aesthetic
• Increase privacy within the shower area without sacrificing natural light
• Minimize visual clutter through seamless detailing
• Improve comfort and daily functionality
• Introduce layered luxury through material selection and architectural detailing
Key features included a steam shower with heated bench, frameless glass shower enclosure with minimal visible metal, floating Italian cabinetry, recessed features, a sculptural textured soaking tub, and carefully positioned natural light at the makeup area to eliminate the need for traditional vanity lighting.
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