Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

Inspiration for a transitional kitchen remodel in San Francisco

photography: Viktor Ramos
Inspiration for a mid-sized modern master gray tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile, gray floor and double-sink freestanding bathtub remodel in Cincinnati with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, an undermount sink, solid surface countertops, white countertops and a floating vanity

design: W. Timothy Hess AIA, Design Principal Justin Mello, Nathan Sawyer all for DSA Architects photographs: Charles Mayer photography and Tim Hess photo-styling: Natalie Leighton stone sculpture: Todd Fulshaw paintings: Charles Mayer and Todd Fulshaw Guest quarters for a big house on the Concord River, this project enlarges former studio space over a four-bay garage into a new four-bedroom ‘outpost’. design challenges: Convert Studio Apartment to 4-Bedroom Home without enlarging footprint of building. Keep costs minimal. On the ground floor, both pre-existing eight- and twelve-foot tall halves of the former scheme remain in-place, as do the structural bones of two faceted ‘beaks’. The complex former roof was removed for its limited use of available floor area. A single long shed now unifies the high East side of the house and its small private individual spaces with the wide-open shared space of the lower West Side. Aligned with the stair-tower extruded from a former beak, a childrens’ loft-library and two-sided fireplace conduct the East-West interface.

Photos by Dave Hubler
Example of a mid-sized classic exterior home design

A Modern home set into rugged desert. Concrete block exterior walls blend with rock outcroppings while floor-to-ceiling window walls blur the inside/outside interface. The Entry opens to a vast Great Room, where the Sitting Area has three walls of glass facing the canyon wall. White interior walls are complemented by dark wood cabinets and paneled wood ceiling treatment. Rear Patio extends across the home and opens to an infinity-edge Pool and raised Spa.

Photos by Dave Hubler
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless exterior home remodel

Mid-sized cottage 3/4 white tile and subway tile mosaic tile floor and multicolored floor home design photo in Los Angeles with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, an integrated sink, marble countertops, a hinged shower door and gray countertops

Claire Haughey front of house from tree
Mid-sized trendy black two-story wood gable roof photo

Designer-friendly flat panel installation and soundbar in the master as well as shade and lighting control from a simple user interface.
Example of a large trendy master light wood floor bedroom design in Grand Rapids with beige walls, a two-sided fireplace and a metal fireplace

Every modern / contemporary living room requires a corresponding functional TV Stand. The Stereo TV Stand by Creative Furniture has everything to enhance your entertainment area, featuring Built-in iPod/iPhone Interface Function, iPhone video output function, USB play Function etc. Dimensions: L59" x W12 2/5" x H16" Free shipping US www.thewallunits.com/listing/modern-tv-stands

Something fresh and absolutely new is captured in this Intelligent Modern TV Stand by Creative Furniture. Justifying its name, the Intelligent features Built-in iPod/iPhone Interface Function, USB play Function and many more! Dimensions: W79" x D17 4/5" x H18" Free shipping US www.thewallunits.com/listing/modern-tv-stands

A Modern home set into rugged desert. Concrete block exterior walls blend with rock outcroppings while floor-to-ceiling window walls blur the inside/outside interface. The Entry opens to a vast Great Room, where the Sitting Area has three walls of glass facing the canyon wall. White interior walls are complemented by dark wood cabinets and paneled wood ceiling treatment. Rear Patio extends across the home and opens to an infinity-edge Pool and raised Spa.

Modern sleek design and multiple functional capabilities make the Neo TV Stand a must-have piece for any entertainment area. The Smart includes Built-in iPod/iPhone Interface Function, USB play Function, Multinational Language OSD Settings and more! Dimensions: L72" x W15" x H32" Free shipping US www.thewallunits.com/listing/modern-tv-stands

Claire Haughey front of house with garden
Mid-sized contemporary gray two-story concrete fiberboard gable roof idea

Photos by Dave Hubler
Home bar - mid-sized traditional home bar idea

This house replaces a home lost in the Santa Cruz mountains CZU fire from several years ago. The home features Wildland Urban Interface compatible and ignition resistant materials. The siding is non combustible, the decking is class A fire rated, the windows are tempered glass. The deck structure is metal posts and the deck guardrail posts are metal.

Sophisticated Modern Kitchen with Waterfall Island and Smart Appliances Welcome to a kitchen that flawlessly blends modern elegance, smart functionality, and natural light. This beautifully designed space exemplifies contemporary living with clean lines, high-end materials, and a layout that invites both cooking and conversation. ✨ Design Overview This kitchen is a masterclass in modern minimalism, featuring a monochromatic color palette, functional elements, and an open-plan layout that connects effortlessly to the outdoor deck through large sliding glass doors. It’s the perfect fusion of form and function—ideal for everyday life or upscale entertaining. 1. Waterfall Kitchen Island Material: Sleek, dark veined quartz or porcelain slab with striking white veining. Design: The waterfall-edge island creates a strong focal point with its bold finish and integrated black fixtures. Functionality: Seats up to four with stylish bar stools—ideal for casual dining or entertaining. ✅ Bonus: Integrated power outlet on the island side adds functionality without compromising aesthetics. 2. ? Matte Flat-Panel Cabinetry Upper Cabinets: Crisp, white flat-panel cabinets that enhance the clean and spacious feel. Lower Cabinet Section: A mix of soft gray and taupe shades for added depth and a subtle contrast. Hardware-Free: Push-to-open mechanisms preserve the minimalist design. 3. ? Full-Slab Backsplash Material: Matching veined stone or porcelain backsplash that continues the look of the island. Visual Impact: The full-slab design creates seamless luxury and a visually cohesive backdrop. 4. ? High-Tech Built-In Appliances Refrigerator: Smart Samsung French-door fridge with touchscreen interface for connectivity and convenience. Ovens: Built-in black glass ovens for a sleek, uniform appliance wall. Cooktop: Integrated into the counter with a pot filler above—combining luxury with serious culinary function. 5. ? Contemporary Lighting & Fixtures Pendant Lighting: Trio of clear glass globe pendants above the island offers soft illumination and style. Faucet: Matte black pull-down faucet adds a high-end, contemporary edge. 6. ? Wide-Plank Light Wood Flooring Material: Likely engineered hardwood or premium laminate in a pale oak tone. Effect: Adds warmth and contrast to the darker island and appliances, creating balance in the space. ? Why This Kitchen Works This kitchen nails the formula for contemporary luxury—a palette of muted neutrals, bold textures, and high-performance appliances. The seamless cabinetry, veined surfaces, and smart layout ensure that beauty and function go hand in hand. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, this space adapts with ease.

Sophisticated Modern Kitchen with Waterfall Island and Smart Appliances Welcome to a kitchen that flawlessly blends modern elegance, smart functionality, and natural light. This beautifully designed space exemplifies contemporary living with clean lines, high-end materials, and a layout that invites both cooking and conversation. ✨ Design Overview This kitchen is a masterclass in modern minimalism, featuring a monochromatic color palette, functional elements, and an open-plan layout that connects effortlessly to the outdoor deck through large sliding glass doors. It’s the perfect fusion of form and function—ideal for everyday life or upscale entertaining. ? Key Features & Materials 1. ? Waterfall Kitchen Island Material: Sleek, dark veined quartz or porcelain slab with striking white veining. Design: The waterfall-edge island creates a strong focal point with its bold finish and integrated black fixtures. Functionality: Seats up to four with stylish bar stools—ideal for casual dining or entertaining. ✅ Bonus: Integrated power outlet on the island side adds functionality without compromising aesthetics. 2. ? Matte Flat-Panel Cabinetry Upper Cabinets: Crisp, white flat-panel cabinets that enhance the clean and spacious feel. Lower Cabinet Section: A mix of soft gray and taupe shades for added depth and a subtle contrast. Hardware-Free: Push-to-open mechanisms preserve the minimalist design. 3. ? Full-Slab Backsplash Material: Matching veined stone or porcelain backsplash that continues the look of the island. Visual Impact: The full-slab design creates seamless luxury and a visually cohesive backdrop. 4. ? High-Tech Built-In Appliances Refrigerator: Smart Samsung French-door fridge with touchscreen interface for connectivity and convenience. Ovens: Built-in black glass ovens for a sleek, uniform appliance wall. Cooktop: Integrated into the counter with a pot filler above—combining luxury with serious culinary function. 5. ? Contemporary Lighting & Fixtures Pendant Lighting: Trio of clear glass globe pendants above the island offers soft illumination and style. Faucet: Matte black pull-down faucet adds a high-end, contemporary edge. 6. ? Wide-Plank Light Wood Flooring Material: Likely engineered hardwood or premium laminate in a pale oak tone. Effect: Adds warmth and contrast to the darker island and appliances, creating balance in the space. ? Why This Kitchen Works This kitchen nails the formula for contemporary luxury—a palette of muted neutrals, bold textures, and high-performance appliances. The seamless cabinetry, veined surfaces, and smart layout ensure that beauty and function go hand in hand. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, this space adapts with ease.