ZIA ZELLIGE TILES, MARBLE WATERFALL ISLAND
Kitchen - transitional l-shaped light wood floor and beige floor kitchen idea in Tampa with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and white countertops

Award-winning Japanese landscape designer Kohei Owatari uses natural elements like water and stone to create relaxing environments amid modern life. A reverence for nature marks this eco-friendly and creative landscape design, where meandering pathways perfectly complement clean geometric lines and patterns. Natural stone was the ideal material to deepen the connection with the natural world. The unique leaf-shaped patio and the custom water trough are key elements that showcase Kohei’s exceptional creativity and design sense.

An artful blend of styles inspired by our love contemporary and modern farmhouses, while honoring tradition and simplicity.
Transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor eat-in kitchen photo in Minneapolis with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, porcelain backsplash, black appliances, an island and white countertops

Design: Charlie & Co. Design | Builder: John Kraemer & Sons | Interiors & Photo Styling: Lucy Interior Design | Susan Gilmore Photography
Inspiration for a contemporary master carpeted bedroom remodel in Minneapolis with white walls

Architectural advisement, Interior Design, Custom Furniture Design & Art Curation by Chango & Co. Photography by Sarah Elliott See the feature in Domino Magazine

Design ideas for a tropical side yard stone landscaping in Tampa.

A captivating transformation in the coveted neighborhood of University Park, Dallas The heart of this home lies in the kitchen, where we embarked on a design endeavor that would leave anyone speechless. By opening up the main kitchen wall, we created a magnificent window system that floods the space with natural light and offers a breathtaking view of the picturesque surroundings. Suspended from the ceiling, a steel-framed marble vent hood floats a few inches from the window, showcasing a mesmerizing Lilac Marble. The same marble is skillfully applied to the backsplash and island, featuring a bold combination of color and pattern that exudes elegance. Adding to the kitchen's allure is the Italian range, which not only serves as a showstopper but offers robust culinary features for even the savviest of cooks. However, the true masterpiece of the kitchen lies in the honed reeded marble-faced island. Each marble strip was meticulously cut and crafted by artisans to achieve a half-rounded profile, resulting in an island that is nothing short of breathtaking. This intricate process took several months, but the end result speaks for itself. To complement the grandeur of the kitchen, we designed a combination of stain-grade and paint-grade cabinets in a thin raised panel door style. This choice adds an elegant yet simple look to the overall design. Inside each cabinet and drawer, custom interiors were meticulously designed to provide maximum functionality and organization for the day-to-day cooking activities. A vintage Turkish runner dating back to the 1960s, evokes a sense of history and character. The breakfast nook boasts a stunning, vivid, and colorful artwork created by one of Dallas' top artist, Kyle Steed, who is revered for his mastery of his craft. Some of our favorite art pieces from the inspiring Haylee Yale grace the coffee station and media console, adding the perfect moment to pause and loose yourself in the story of her art. The project extends beyond the kitchen into the living room, where the family's changing needs and growing children demanded a new design approach. Accommodating their new lifestyle, we incorporated a large sectional for family bonding moments while watching TV. The living room now boasts bolder colors, striking artwork a coffered accent wall, and cayenne velvet curtains that create an inviting atmosphere. Completing the room is a custom 22' x 15' rug, adding warmth and comfort to the space. A hidden coat closet door integrated into the feature wall adds an element of surprise and functionality. This project is not just about aesthetics; it's about pushing the boundaries of design and showcasing the possibilities. By curating an out-of-the-box approach, we bring texture and depth to the space, employing different materials and original applications. The layered design achieved through repeated use of the same material in various forms, shapes, and locations demonstrates that unexpected elements can create breathtaking results. The reason behind this redesign and remodel was the homeowners' desire to have a kitchen that not only provided functionality but also served as a beautiful backdrop to their cherished family moments. The previous kitchen lacked the "wow" factor they desired, prompting them to seek our expertise in creating a space that would be a source of joy and inspiration. Inspired by well-curated European vignettes, sculptural elements, clean lines, and a natural color scheme with pops of color, this design reflects an elegant organic modern style. Mixing metals, contrasting textures, and utilizing clean lines were key elements in achieving the desired aesthetic. The living room introduces bolder moments and a carefully chosen color scheme that adds character and personality. The client's must-haves were clear: they wanted a show stopping centerpiece for their home, enhanced natural light in the kitchen, and a design that reflected their family's dynamic. With the transformation of the range wall into a wall of windows, we fulfilled their desire for abundant natural light and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Our favorite rooms and design elements are numerous, but the kitchen remains a standout feature. The painstaking process of hand-cutting and crafting each reeded panel in the island to match the marble's veining resulted in a labor of love that emanates warmth and hospitality to all who enter. In conclusion, this tastefully lux project in University Park, Dallas is an extraordinary example of a full gut remodel that has surpassed all expectations. The meticulous attention to detail, the masterful use of materials, and the seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics create an unforgettable space. It serves as a testament to the power of design and the transformative impact it can have on a home and its inhabitants. Project by Texas' Urbanology Designs. Their North Richland Hills-based interior design studio serves Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Fort Worth, and upscale clients nationwide.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Example of a 1960s open concept concrete floor, gray floor, vaulted ceiling and wood ceiling living room design in Los Angeles with white walls

Living room - transitional living room idea in Atlanta

Decorate your living space with the ideal area rug, a key element in enhancing your home's style and comfort. Whether you’re updating your bedroom decor or outfitting your living room, selecting the right rug can transform any area, adding warmth, texture, and a distinctive touch to your space. For those looking to upgrade their bedroom or living room, area rugs come in a range of styles and materials to suit various tastes and needs. Hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs offer timeless elegance with their intricate designs and luxurious textures. These handcrafted options are perfect for adding a sophisticated element to your bedroom decor or living room. Hand-loomed rugs, with their artisanal craftsmanship, bring a unique, personalized touch to any room, making them ideal for those who appreciate detailed, bespoke designs. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, machine-woven rugs provide a practical yet stylish solution. These rugs are available in a variety of patterns and colors and are designed to withstand high foot traffic, making them a durable choice for busy areas. For a more contemporary feel, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that fits seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor themes. For added comfort and style, consider shag or flokati rugs. Their plush, long fibers create a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for a living room where comfort is key. These rugs are especially suited for spaces where you want to relax and enjoy a soft, inviting texture underfoot. When it comes to functionality, choosing a rug that is machine washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. These practical features are essential for busy households and high-traffic areas, helping to keep your rug looking fresh and clean. Non-slip and adhesive backings are also crucial, especially on hardwood floors, to prevent slips and ensure the rug remains securely in place. For those looking to make a statement, large rugs for the living room or oversized area rugs, such as 8x10 options, can define and elevate your space. Large carpets provide substantial coverage and can anchor a room, adding a sense of scale and sophistication. Whether you opt for a big rug for the living room or a huge carpet to cover a larger area, these choices offer versatility and style. In addition to large living room rugs, consider rug sets or personalized options to further enhance your decor. Custom rugs with features like fringe or organic textures can add a distinctive element to your space, reflecting your personal style and complementing your existing decor. To ensure your rug enhances the overall look of your room, consider how it aligns with your decor theme. Contemporary and modern designs offer sleek, clean lines and bold patterns, while traditional and mid-century modern styles provide a more classic or retro look. Transitional rugs blend elements from both traditional and modern styles, offering flexibility and a timeless appeal. In summary, selecting the right area rug involves balancing aesthetics with practicality. From luxurious hand-tufted and hand-knotted designs to functional machine-woven and flat-woven options, the perfect rug can elevate your living room, bedroom, or kitchen into a stylish and comfortable haven. Explore the vast array of choices available, including large living room rugs and personalized designs, to find the ideal rug that meets both your decorative and functional needs.

Revamp your living space with the ideal area rug, a key element in enhancing your home's style and comfort. Whether you’re updating your bedroom decor or outfitting your living room, selecting the right rug can transform any area, adding warmth, texture, and a distinctive touch to your space. For those looking to upgrade their bedroom or living room, area rugs come in a range of styles and materials to suit various tastes and needs. Hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs offer timeless elegance with their intricate designs and luxurious textures. These handcrafted options are perfect for adding a sophisticated element to your bedroom decor or living room. Hand-loomed rugs, with their artisanal craftsmanship, bring a unique, personalized touch to any room, making them ideal for those who appreciate detailed, bespoke designs. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, machine-woven rugs provide a practical yet stylish solution. These rugs are available in a variety of patterns and colors and are designed to withstand high foot traffic, making them a durable choice for busy areas. For a more contemporary feel, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that fits seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor themes. For added comfort and style, consider shag or flokati rugs. Their plush, long fibers create a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for a living room where comfort is key. These rugs are especially suited for spaces where you want to relax and enjoy a soft, inviting texture underfoot. When it comes to functionality, choosing a rug that is machine washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. These practical features are essential for busy households and high-traffic areas, helping to keep your rug looking fresh and clean. Non-slip and adhesive backings are also crucial, especially on hardwood floors, to prevent slips and ensure the rug remains securely in place. For those looking to make a statement, large rugs for the living room or oversized area rugs, such as 8x10 options, can define and elevate your space. Large carpets provide substantial coverage and can anchor a room, adding a sense of scale and sophistication. Whether you opt for a big rug for the living room or a huge carpet to cover a larger area, these choices offer versatility and style. In addition to large living room rugs, consider rug sets or personalized options to further enhance your decor. Custom rugs with features like fringe or organic textures can add a distinctive element to your space, reflecting your personal style and complementing your existing decor. To ensure your rug enhances the overall look of your room, consider how it aligns with your decor theme. Contemporary and modern designs offer sleek, clean lines and bold patterns, while traditional and mid-century modern styles provide a more classic or retro look. Transitional rugs blend elements from both traditional and modern styles, offering flexibility and a timeless appeal. In summary, selecting the right area rug involves balancing aesthetics with practicality. From luxurious hand-tufted and hand-knotted designs to functional machine-woven and flat-woven options, the perfect rug can elevate your living room, bedroom, or kitchen into a stylish and comfortable haven. Explore the vast array of choices available, including large living room rugs and personalized designs, to find the ideal rug that meets both your decorative and functional needs.

Revamp your living space with the ideal area rug, a key element in enhancing your home's style and comfort. Whether you’re updating your bedroom decor or outfitting your living room, selecting the right rug can transform any area, adding warmth, texture, and a distinctive touch to your space. For those looking to upgrade their bedroom or living room, area rugs come in a range of styles and materials to suit various tastes and needs. Hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs offer timeless elegance with their intricate designs and luxurious textures. These handcrafted options are perfect for adding a sophisticated element to your bedroom decor or living room. Hand-loomed rugs, with their artisanal craftsmanship, bring a unique, personalized touch to any room, making them ideal for those who appreciate detailed, bespoke designs. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, machine-woven rugs provide a practical yet stylish solution. These rugs are available in a variety of patterns and colors and are designed to withstand high foot traffic, making them a durable choice for busy areas. For a more contemporary feel, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that fits seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor themes. For added comfort and style, consider shag or flokati rugs. Their plush, long fibers create a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for a living room where comfort is key. These rugs are especially suited for spaces where you want to relax and enjoy a soft, inviting texture underfoot. When it comes to functionality, choosing a rug that is machine washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. These practical features are essential for busy households and high-traffic areas, helping to keep your rug looking fresh and clean. Non-slip and adhesive backings are also crucial, especially on hardwood floors, to prevent slips and ensure the rug remains securely in place. For those looking to make a statement, large rugs for the living room or oversized area rugs, such as 8x10 options, can define and elevate your space. Large carpets provide substantial coverage and can anchor a room, adding a sense of scale and sophistication. Whether you opt for a big rug for the living room or a huge carpet to cover a larger area, these choices offer versatility and style. In addition to large living room rugs, consider rug sets or personalized options to further enhance your decor. Custom rugs with features like fringe or organic textures can add a distinctive element to your space, reflecting your personal style and complementing your existing decor. To ensure your rug enhances the overall look of your room, consider how it aligns with your decor theme. Contemporary and modern designs offer sleek, clean lines and bold patterns, while traditional and mid-century modern styles provide a more classic or retro look. Transitional rugs blend elements from both traditional and modern styles, offering flexibility and a timeless appeal. In summary, selecting the right area rug involves balancing aesthetics with practicality. From luxurious hand-tufted and hand-knotted designs to functional machine-woven and flat-woven options, the perfect rug can elevate your living room, bedroom, or kitchen into a stylish and comfortable haven. Explore the vast array of choices available, including large living room rugs and personalized designs, to find the ideal rug that meets both your decorative and functional needs.

Revamp your living space with the ideal area rug, a key element in enhancing your home's style and comfort. Whether you’re updating your bedroom decor or outfitting your living room, selecting the right rug can transform any area, adding warmth, texture, and a distinctive touch to your space. For those looking to upgrade their bedroom or living room, area rugs come in a range of styles and materials to suit various tastes and needs. Hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs offer timeless elegance with their intricate designs and luxurious textures. These handcrafted options are perfect for adding a sophisticated element to your bedroom decor or living room. Hand-loomed rugs, with their artisanal craftsmanship, bring a unique, personalized touch to any room, making them ideal for those who appreciate detailed, bespoke designs. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, machine-woven rugs provide a practical yet stylish solution. These rugs are available in a variety of patterns and colors and are designed to withstand high foot traffic, making them a durable choice for busy areas. For a more contemporary feel, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that fits seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor themes. For added comfort and style, consider shag or flokati rugs. Their plush, long fibers create a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for a living room where comfort is key. These rugs are especially suited for spaces where you want to relax and enjoy a soft, inviting texture underfoot. When it comes to functionality, choosing a rug that is machine washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. These practical features are essential for busy households and high-traffic areas, helping to keep your rug looking fresh and clean. Non-slip and adhesive backings are also crucial, especially on hardwood floors, to prevent slips and ensure the rug remains securely in place. For those looking to make a statement, large rugs for the living room or oversized area rugs, such as 8x10 options, can define and elevate your space. Large carpets provide substantial coverage and can anchor a room, adding a sense of scale and sophistication. Whether you opt for a big rug for the living room or a huge carpet to cover a larger area, these choices offer versatility and style. In addition to large living room rugs, consider rug sets or personalized options to further enhance your decor. Custom rugs with features like fringe or organic textures can add a distinctive element to your space, reflecting your personal style and complementing your existing decor. To ensure your rug enhances the overall look of your room, consider how it aligns with your decor theme. Contemporary and modern designs offer sleek, clean lines and bold patterns, while traditional and mid-century modern styles provide a more classic or retro look. Transitional rugs blend elements from both traditional and modern styles, offering flexibility and a timeless appeal. In summary, selecting the right area rug involves balancing aesthetics with practicality. From luxurious hand-tufted and hand-knotted designs to functional machine-woven and flat-woven options, the perfect rug can elevate your living room, bedroom, or kitchen into a stylish and comfortable haven. Explore the vast array of choices available, including large living room rugs and personalized designs, to find the ideal rug that meets both your decorative and functional needs.

Improve your living space with the ideal area rug, a key element in enhancing your home's style and comfort. Whether you’re updating your bedroom decor or outfitting your living room, selecting the right rug can transform any area, adding warmth, texture, and a distinctive touch to your space. For those looking to upgrade their bedroom or living room, area rugs come in a range of styles and materials to suit various tastes and needs. Hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs offer timeless elegance with their intricate designs and luxurious textures. These handcrafted options are perfect for adding a sophisticated element to your bedroom decor or living room. Hand-loomed rugs, with their artisanal craftsmanship, bring a unique, personalized touch to any room, making them ideal for those who appreciate detailed, bespoke designs. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, machine-woven rugs provide a practical yet stylish solution. These rugs are available in a variety of patterns and colors and are designed to withstand high foot traffic, making them a durable choice for busy areas. For a more contemporary feel, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that fits seamlessly with both modern and traditional decor themes. For added comfort and style, consider shag or flokati rugs. Their plush, long fibers create a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for a living room where comfort is key. These rugs are especially suited for spaces where you want to relax and enjoy a soft, inviting texture underfoot. When it comes to functionality, choosing a rug that is machine washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. These practical features are essential for busy households and high-traffic areas, helping to keep your rug looking fresh and clean. Non-slip and adhesive backings are also crucial, especially on hardwood floors, to prevent slips and ensure the rug remains securely in place. For those looking to make a statement, large rugs for the living room or oversized area rugs, such as 8x10 options, can define and elevate your space. Large carpets provide substantial coverage and can anchor a room, adding a sense of scale and sophistication. Whether you opt for a big rug for the living room or a huge carpet to cover a larger area, these choices offer versatility and style. In addition to large living room rugs, consider rug sets or personalized options to further enhance your decor. Custom rugs with features like fringe or organic textures can add a distinctive element to your space, reflecting your personal style and complementing your existing decor. To ensure your rug enhances the overall look of your room, consider how it aligns with your decor theme. Contemporary and modern designs offer sleek, clean lines and bold patterns, while traditional and mid-century modern styles provide a more classic or retro look. Transitional rugs blend elements from both traditional and modern styles, offering flexibility and a timeless appeal. In summary, selecting the right area rug involves balancing aesthetics with practicality. From luxurious hand-tufted and hand-knotted designs to functional machine-woven and flat-woven options, the perfect rug can elevate your living room, bedroom, or kitchen into a stylish and comfortable haven. Explore the vast array of choices available, including large living room rugs and personalized designs, to find the ideal rug that meets both your decorative and functional needs.

Overview Whole house refurbishment, double storey wrap around extension and large loft conversion. The Brief Create a WOW factor space, add glamour and fun and give the house a street side and garden side, both different. Our Solution This project was exciting from the start, the client wanted to entertain in a WOW factor space, have a panoramic view of the garden (which was to be landscaped), add bedrooms and a great master suite. We had some key elements to introduce such as an aquarium separating two rooms; double height spaces and a gloss kitchen, all of which manifest themselves in the completed scheme. Architecture is a process taking a schedule of areas, some key desires and needs, mixing the functionality and creating space. New spaces transform a house making it more valuable, giving it kerb appeal and making it feel like a different building. All of which happened at Ailsa Road.

Overview Whole house refurbishment, double storey wrap around extension and large loft conversion. The Brief Create a WOW factor space, add glamour and fun and give the house a street side and garden side, both different. Our Solution This project was exciting from the start, the client wanted to entertain in a WOW factor space, have a panoramic view of the garden (which was to be landscaped), add bedrooms and a great master suite. We had some key elements to introduce such as an aquarium separating two rooms; double height spaces and a gloss kitchen, all of which manifest themselves in the completed scheme. Architecture is a process taking a schedule of areas, some key desires and needs, mixing the functionality and creating space. New spaces transform a house making it more valuable, giving it kerb appeal and making it feel like a different building. All of which happened at Ailsa Road.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Grays add a softness to the design, whether as a primary color, shown in the kitchen here, or as a secondary color, often on an island. Gray is the perfect fit for the growing trend of Transitional design. The washed look and character of Peppercorn cherry paired with our Boardwalk door style creates a naturally calm and simple space. Designing with consistent horizontal sight lines, linear crown and a blended color palette are a few of the key elements to create a Transitional haven. Pairing gray toned finishes, such as stain and paint, allows you to showcase multiple textures and values for creating depth through a layered approach.