The site descends from the street and is privileged with dynamic natural views toward a creek below and beyond. To incorporate the existing landscape into the daily life of the residents, the house steps down to the natural topography. A continuous and jogging retaining wall from outside to inside embeds the structure below natural grade at the front with flush transitions at its rear facade. All indoor spaces open up to a central courtyard which terraces down to the tree canopy, creating a readily visible and occupiable transitional space between man-made and nature. The courtyard scheme is simplified by two wings representing common and private zones - connected by a glass dining “bridge." This transparent volume also visually connects the front yard to the courtyard, clearing for the prospect view, while maintaining a subdued street presence. The staircase acts as a vertical “knuckle,” mediating shifting wing angles while contrasting the predominant horizontality of the house. Crips materiality and detailing, deep roof overhangs, and the one-and-half story wall at the rear further enhance the connection between outdoors and indoors, providing nuanced natural lighting throughout and a meaningful framed procession through the property. Photography Spaces and Faces Photography

The now dated 90s bath Katie spent her childhood splashing in underwent a full-scale renovation under her direction. The goal: Bring it down to the studs and make it new, without wiping away its roots. Details and materials were carefully selected to capitalize on the room’s architecture and to embrace the home’s traditional form. The result is a bathroom that feels like it should have been there from the start. Featured on HAVEN and in Rue Magazine Spring 2022.

photo:Frank Oudeman
Design ideas for a small contemporary drought-tolerant and partial sun backyard gravel landscaping in New York for summer.

Photo: Rachel Loewen © 2018 Houzz
Inspiration for an eclectic living room remodel in Chicago

2016 Showcase of Homes Luxury Home Award Winning Home by La Femme Home Builders, LLC
Large farmhouse stone porch idea in Boston with an awning

At Inglenook of Carmel, residents share common outdoor courtyards and pedestrian-friendly pathways where they can see one another during the comings and goings of the day, creating meaningful friendships and a true sense of community. Designed by renowned architect Ross Chapin, Inglenook of Carmel offers a range of two-, three-, and four-bedroom Cottage Home designs. From the colorful exterior paint and private flowerboxes to the custom built-ins and detailed design, each home is unique, just like the community.

Photo: Ryan Hicks © 2018 Houzz
Living room - eclectic living room idea in DC Metro

Bergen County, NJ - Traditional - Kitchen Designed by Bart Lidsky of The Hammer & Nail Inc. Photography by: Steve Rossi This classic white kitchen creamy white Rutt Handcrafted Cabinetry and espresso Stained Rift White Oak Base Cabinetry. The highly articulated storage is a functional hidden feature of this kitchen. The countertops are 2" Thick Danby Marble with a mosaic marble backsplash. Pendant lights are built into the cabinetry above the sink. http://thehammerandnail.com #BartLidsky #HNdesigns #KitchenDesign

Photo: Rikki Snyder © 2016 Houzz
Study room - eclectic freestanding desk medium tone wood floor study room idea in New York

The living room has views in all directions and is surrounded by a covered porch. A wooden canoe helps create interest in the space. Roger Wade photo.

Mid-sized country light wood floor and beige floor entryway photo in Boise with white walls and a white front door

A durable, meaningful design heals a devastated residential property bordering Acadia National Park and Somes Sound on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Comprehensive stormwater management strategies shape new landforms, resulting in elegant grading and thoughtful drainage solutions. Native plant colonies stabilize the site, regenerate habitat, and reveal wildlife patterns. Exquisitely crafted new masonry, built from an authentic palette of local reclaimed materials, gives the garden a unified, established feel. Lichen-encrusted stone retaining walls define edges, thresholds, and overlooks, and thick slabs of salvaged granite embedded in the earth provide gathering terraces and pathways. With balance restored, brilliant seasonal drama unfolds.

When you dad is a professional pitcher, it is pretty easy to decide that you want a baseball themed bedroom. Our client had various pitching grips photographed which are the focal point of this space and will be an heirloom for the family. Stripes in muted tones wrap around the entire room and will be a backdrop as the little boy grows up. A classic iron bed topped with vintage baseball themed bedding add subtle color and pattern. Reading lamps above the bed make bedtime story time easy.

Brad Knipstein Photography
Bedroom - contemporary dark wood floor and black floor bedroom idea in San Francisco with gray walls

James Ray Spahn
Inspiration for a transitional dining room remodel in Los Angeles

Araya Jensen
Example of a transitional home design design in Minneapolis

The clients—a chef and a baker—desired a light-filled space with stylish function allowing them to cook, bake and entertain. Craig expanded the kitchen by removing a wall, vaulted the ceiling and enlarged the windows. Photo: Helynn Ospina

The main floor’s cramped, enclosed living areas were replaced with a bright, airy great room and an open kitchen. The master bath was relocated to the back of the house, where it now opens to a lovely garden.

Photo Credit: Steve Henke
Example of a trendy wooden cable railing and open staircase design in Minneapolis