In the main bedroom, the design narrative shifts from social vibrancy to intimate tranquility, creating a truly serene sanctuary high above the city. Set against a backdrop of sophisticated textured grasscloth walls, the room is defined by its masterful layering of tactile surfaces and a continued, thoughtful exploration of color. Dramatic, floor-to-ceiling patterned drapes in deep amethyst and plum tones frame the light, nodding subtly to the home’s recurring palette of vibrant jewel tones. These rich purples are echoed in the velvet accent pillows on the sleek, upholstered bed, creating a quiet continuity that feels both expressive and intentional. Every detail, from the unique sculptural floor lamp on its clear acrylic base to the elegant, modern brass pendant, feels curated and personal. The result is a deeply restorative space that balances a modern aesthetic with a broader, more nuanced sense of history and individual identity.

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 Charles Davis Smith

Here, Echo Custom Homes has brought to life a homeowner's meticulously crafted creative vision through a collaborative process in which the homeowner and the custom builder worked closely together. The couple’s vision has choreographed a series of unique moments and spatial experiences that offer drama and peacefulness. It's a fitting reflection of their informed and thoughtful design sensibilities. This minimalist modern dwelling demonstrates how the use of space impacts both the experience and function of a building, The home’s layout creates magnetic energy, influencing mood and perceptions through space, light, and materials used. Every area serves a purpose. A majestic oak tree serves as the focal point and was instrumental to the dwelling’s layout. The kitchen, which has unique storage and refrigerating solutions, allows function and a minimal sleek design. Airy spaces with abundant large windows, numerous sliders, and an open primary shower/bath concept create a sense of hidden paradise within the contemporary urban setting. This seamless blend of mid-century nuances with modern elements, such as the Floating European Fireplace and the Custom Artisan Metal stairs, transforms this elegant home into a timeless masterpiece.

Steve Gotter The client’s request was quite common - a typical 2800 sf builder home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living space, and den. However, their desire was for this to be “anything but common.” The result is an innovative update on the production home for the modern era, and serves as a direct counterpoint to the neighborhood and its more conventional suburban housing stock, which focus views to the backyard and seeks to nullify the unique qualities and challenges of topography and the natural environment. The Terraced House cautiously steps down the site’s steep topography, resulting in a more nuanced approach to site development than cutting and filling that is so common in the builder homes of the area. The compact house opens up in very focused views that capture the natural wooded setting, while masking the sounds and views of the directly adjacent roadway. The main living spaces face this major roadway, effectively flipping the typical orientation of a suburban home, and the main entrance pulls visitors up to the second floor and halfway through the site, providing a sense of procession and privacy absent in the typical suburban home. Clad in a custom rain screen that reflects the wood of the surrounding landscape - while providing a glimpse into the interior tones that are used. The stepping “wood boxes” rest on a series of concrete walls that organize the site, retain the earth, and - in conjunction with the wood veneer panels - provide a subtle organic texture to the composition. The interior spaces wrap around an interior knuckle that houses public zones and vertical circulation - allowing more private spaces to exist at the edges of the building. The windows get larger and more frequent as they ascend the building, culminating in the upstairs bedrooms that occupy the site like a tree house - giving views in all directions. The Terraced House imports urban qualities to the suburban neighborhood and seeks to elevate the typical approach to production home construction, while being more in tune with modern family living patterns. Overview: Elm Grove Size: 2,800 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Completion Date: September 2014 Services: Architecture, Landscape Architecture Interior Consultants: Amy Carman Design

The owners of a charming home in the hills west of Paso Robles recently decided to remodel their not-so-charming kitchen. Referred to San Luis Kitchen by several of their friends, the homeowners visited our showroom and soon decided we were the best people to design a kitchen fitting the style of their home. We were delighted to get to work on the project right away. When we arrived at the house, we found a small, cramped and out-dated kitchen. The ceiling was low, the cabinets old fashioned and painted a stark dead white, and the best view in the house was neglected in a seldom-used breakfast nook (sequestered behind the kitchen peninsula). This kitchen was also handicapped by white tile counters with dark grout, odd-sized and cluttered cabinets, and small ‘desk’ tacked on to the side of the oven cabinet. Due to a marked lack of counter space & inadequate storage the homeowner had resorted to keeping her small appliances on a little cart parked in the corner and the garbage was just sitting by the wall in full view of everything! On the plus side, the kitchen opened into a nice dining room and had beautiful saltillo tile floors. Mrs. Homeowner loves to entertain and often hosts dinner parties for her friends. She enjoys visiting with her guests in the kitchen while putting the finishing touches on the evening’s meal. Sadly, her small kitchen really limited her interactions with her guests – she often felt left out of the mix at her own parties! This savvy homeowner dreamed big – a new kitchen that would accommodate multiple workstations, have space for guests to gather but not be in the way, and maybe a prettier transition from the kitchen to the dining (wine service area or hutch?) – while managing the remodel budget by reusing some of her major appliances and keeping (patching as needed) her existing floors. Responding to the homeowner’s stated wish list and the opportunities presented by the home's setting and existing architecture, the designers at San Luis Kitchen decided to expand the kitchen into the breakfast nook. This change allowed the work area to be reoriented to take advantage of the great view – we replaced the existing window and added another while moving the door to gain space. A second sink and set of refrigerator drawers (housing fresh fruits & veggies) were included for the convenience of this mainly vegetarian cook – her prep station. The clean-up area now boasts a farmhouse style single bowl sink – adding to the ‘cottage’ charm. We located a new gas cook-top between the two workstations for easy access from each. Also tucked in here is a pullout trash/recycle cabinet for convenience and additional drawers for storage. Running parallel to the work counter we added a long butcher-block island with easy-to-access open shelves for the avid cook and seating for friendly guests placed just right to take in the view. A counter-top garage is used to hide excess small appliances. Glass door cabinets and open shelves are now available to display the owners beautiful dishware. The microwave was placed inconspicuously on the end of the island facing the refrigerator – easy access for guests (and extraneous family members) to help themselves to drinks and snacks while staying out of the cook’s way. We also moved the pantry storage away from the dining room (putting it on the far wall and closer to the work triangle) and added a furniture-like hutch in its place allowing the more formal dining area to flow seamlessly into the up-beat work area of the kitchen. This space is now also home (opposite wall) to an under counter wine refrigerator, a liquor cabinet and pretty glass door wall cabinet for stemware storage – meeting Mr. Homeowner’s desire for a bar service area. And then the aesthetic: an old-world style country cottage theme. The homeowners wanted the kitchen to have a warm feel while still loving the look of white cabinetry. San Luis Kitchen melded country-casual knotty pine base cabinets with vintage hand-brushed creamy white wall cabinets to create the desired cottage look. We also added bead board and mullioned glass doors for charm, used an inset doorstyle on the cabinets for authenticity, and mixed stone and wood counters to create an eclectic nuance in the space. All in all, the happy homeowners now boast a charming county cottage kitchen with plenty of space for entertaining their guests while creating gourmet meals to feed them. Credits: Custom cabinetry by Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry Contracting by Michael Pezzato of Lost Coast Construction Stone counters by Pyramid M.T.M.

A new boutique condominium building with only 29 residences in one of the most charming residential enclaves in Manhattan: 40 East End Avenue. In this dynamic collaboration with Gerner Kronick & Valcarel Architects and Deborah Berke Partners, Lightstone Group transcends the condominium status quo with the curated creation of nuanced individual residences designed to be true homes. The custom high-gloss lacquer painted Italian kitchen cabinetry, by Pedini, is complemented with hand-selected Italian Arabescato Cervaiole marble slabs. Upper cabinet doors feature a unique woven metal mesh panel and bevelled trim, adding a refined pattern to the kitchen composition. The state-of-the-art appliances by Gaggenau and the substantial kitchen island are as vital to cooking as they are to entertaining. The master bathroom, featuring a 6 foot soaking tub, walk-in shower and private water closet, is clad in Arabescato Cervaiole marble in a high-honed finish, complemented by fluted mirrored glass panels, Pedini custom Italian vanity and Waterworks Henry fixtures in polished nickel.

Experience the harmonious blend of classic charm and modern sophistication in this completed kitchen renovation. The white shaker-style cabinets, paired with neutral quartz and stainless steel accents, create a timeless and inviting design. The addition of a glass door corner wall cabinet adds a touch of openness and refinement. White porcelain tile flooring establishes a clean backdrop, while the quartz countertops and backsplash introduce subtle earthy tones. Sleek stainless steel appliances and matching fixtures contribute to the modern aesthetic, creating a cohesive and polished look. The brushed nickel cabinet handles, sink, and faucet provide a nuanced warmth, completing this kitchen as a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that seamlessly integrates classic and contemporary elements.

Perched above the beautiful Delaware River in the historic village of New Hope, Bucks County, Pennsylvania sits this magnificent custom home designed by OMNIA Group Architects. According to Partner, Brian Mann,"This riverside property required a nuanced approach so that it could at once be both a part of this eclectic village streetscape and take advantage of the spectacular waterfront setting." Further complicating the study, the lot was narrow, it resides in the floodplain and the program required the Master Suite to be on the main level. To meet these demands, OMNIA dispensed with conventional historicist styles and created an open plan blended with traditional forms punctuated by vast rows of glass windows and doors to bring in the panoramic views of Lambertville, the bridge, the wooded opposite bank and the river. Mann adds, "Because I too live along the river, I have a special respect for its ever changing beauty - and I appreciate that riverfront structures have a responsibility to enhance the views from those on the water." Hence the riverside facade is as beautiful as the street facade. A sweeping front porch integrates the entry with the vibrant pedestrian streetscape. Low garden walls enclose a beautifully landscaped courtyard defining private space without turning its back on the street. Once inside, the natural setting explodes into view across the back of each of the main living spaces. For a home with so few walls, spaces feel surprisingly intimate and well defined. The foyer is elegant and features a free flowing curved stair that rises in a turret like enclosure dotted with windows that follow the ascending stairs like a sculpture. "Using changes in ceiling height, finish materials and lighting, we were able to define spaces without boxing spaces in" says Mann adding, "the dynamic horizontality of the river is echoed along the axis of the living space; the natural movement from kitchen to dining to living rooms following the current of the river." Service elements are concentrated along the front to create a visual and noise barrier from the street and buttress a calm hall that leads to the Master Suite. The master bedroom shares the views of the river, while the bath and closet program are set up for pure luxuriating. The second floor features a common loft area with a large balcony overlooking the water. Two children's suites flank the loft - each with their own exquisitely crafted baths and closets. Continuing the balance between street and river, an open air bell-tower sits above the entry porch to bring life and light to the street. Outdoor living was part of the program from the start. A covered porch with outdoor kitchen and dining and lounge area and a fireplace brings 3-season living to the river. And a lovely curved patio lounge surrounded by grand landscaping by LDG finishes the experience. OMNIA was able to bring their design talents to the finish materials too including cabinetry, lighting, fixtures, colors and furniture

Experience the harmonious blend of classic charm and modern sophistication in this completed kitchen renovation. The white shaker-style cabinets, paired with neutral quartz and stainless steel accents, create a timeless and inviting design. The addition of a glass door corner wall cabinet adds a touch of openness and refinement. White porcelain tile flooring establishes a clean backdrop, while the quartz countertops and backsplash introduce subtle earthy tones. Sleek stainless steel appliances and matching fixtures contribute to the modern aesthetic, creating a cohesive and polished look. The brushed nickel cabinet handles, sink, and faucet provide a nuanced warmth, completing this kitchen as a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that seamlessly integrates classic and contemporary elements.

Designed by Mauro Lipparini, Prora Italian Extension Dining Table is a graceful marvel singularly created to promote timeless, unadulterated stylistic value. Manufactured in Italy by Bonaldo, Prora Dining Table unveils distinctive nuances in the form of its powerfully expressive sculptured legs reminiscent of a ship’s hull or epitomizing a deconstructed bow(tie), which is also the meaning of prora in Italian.

Elena Almagro

A new boutique condominium building with only 29 residences in one of the most charming residential enclaves in Manhattan: 40 East End Avenue. In this dynamic collaboration with Gerner Kronick & Valcarel Architects and Deborah Berke Partners, Lightstone Group transcends the condominium status quo with the curated creation of nuanced individual residences designed to be true homes. The custom high-gloss lacquer painted Italian kitchen cabinetry, by Pedini, is complemented with hand-selected Italian Arabescato Cervaiole marble slabs. Upper cabinet doors feature a unique woven metal mesh panel and bevelled trim, adding a refined pattern to the kitchen composition. The state-of-the-art appliances by Gaggenau and the substantial kitchen island are as vital to cooking as they are to entertaining. The master bathroom, featuring a 6 foot soaking tub, walk-in shower and private water closet, is clad in Arabescato Cervaiole marble in a high-honed finish, complemented by fluted mirrored glass panels, Pedini custom Italian vanity and Waterworks Henry fixtures in polished nickel.

A new boutique condominium building with only 29 residences in one of the most charming residential enclaves in Manhattan: 40 East End Avenue. In this dynamic collaboration with Gerner Kronick & Valcarel Architects and Deborah Berke Partners, Lightstone Group transcends the condominium status quo with the curated creation of nuanced individual residences designed to be true homes. The custom high-gloss lacquer painted Italian kitchen cabinetry, by Pedini, is complemented with hand-selected Italian Arabescato Cervaiole marble slabs. Upper cabinet doors feature a unique woven metal mesh panel and bevelled trim, adding a refined pattern to the kitchen composition. The state-of-the-art appliances by Gaggenau and the substantial kitchen island are as vital to cooking as they are to entertaining. The master bathroom, featuring a 6 foot soaking tub, walk-in shower and private water closet, is clad in Arabescato Cervaiole marble in a high-honed finish, complemented by fluted mirrored glass panels, Pedini custom Italian vanity and Waterworks Henry fixtures in polished nickel.

FullView Modern Perfectly refined, thoroughly Mendota Designed for those who are ready for the next level of fireplace enjoyment, the Mendota Modern transcends traditional fireplace design and elevates it to a new level of elegance and sophistication. The fact that the passion and beauty is fueled by efficient Mendota BurnGreen™ technology adds to its refined, contemporary appeal. FullView Modern Blending contemporary elements with the primal, instinctive allure of fire, this simple yet stunning fireplace makes a confident statement in any room. An elegant, contemporary fireplace that’s smarter, too Flames leap from a base of natural river rock or glass fire stones A choice of interior linings that intensify the nuances of the fire Combines today’s high-efficiency green technology with century-old Mendota craftsmanship Easily customized with a choice of fronts, doors, fire base and interior linings Remote controlled variable flames: 18,000 to 29,000 BTUH

Designed by Mauro Lipparini, Prora Italian Extension Dining Table is a graceful marvel singularly created to promote timeless, unadulterated stylistic value. Manufactured in Italy by Bonaldo, Prora Dining Table unveils distinctive nuances in the form of its powerfully expressive sculptured legs reminiscent of a ship’s hull or epitomizing a deconstructed bow(tie), which is also the meaning of prora in Italian.

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 Charles Davis Smith

Transitional medium tone wood floor and brown floor dining room photo in Chicago with pink walls

Designed by Mauro Lipparini, Prora Italian Extension Dining Table is a graceful marvel singularly created to promote timeless, unadulterated stylistic value. Manufactured in Italy by Bonaldo, Prora Dining Table unveils distinctive nuances in the form of its powerfully expressive sculptured legs reminiscent of a ship’s hull or epitomizing a deconstructed bow(tie), which is also the meaning of prora in Italian.