Photo Credits: Pixil Studios
Example of a small mountain style loft-style medium tone wood floor living room design in Denver with beige walls, a wood stove, a metal fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

This massive 7-figure project in Martis Camp (Truckee, California) began in April of 2106 when Jon invited a few members of the Throughstone Group to fly there and walk through the site to see what ideas they could collectively form for the client from a "blank slate". A theme was then proposed; a rough plan was approved; and phase one site preparation began that same Fall. It's a one-of-a-kind collaboration involving every member of the Throughstone Group from Colorado, California, Washington and Italy. Phase two began in May of 2017 and finished six months later in November. The final phase will be complete in the early summer of 2018. Jon's stonesmith travel team relocated to Truckee for six months and installed approximately 300 tons of basalt and granite stone. The SB Forge + Iron crew designed and built numerous bronze-plated and bronze-sculpted features. The Seattle Solstice team co-designed and built Jon's sculptures up in Seattle, transported them to the site and flew down to install them. Jay of Stellar Jay Designs built all of the wood works in Durango, Colorado and trucked them up himself to put them all in place. Craig and Mary from NW Outdoor Lighting will complete the lighting system in 2018.

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

What a fun yet challenging project. After numerous space plan options, we've finally decided on removing a wall and switching it out with cabinetry that is functional for a kitchen and the dining area. We've added a peninsula at a 120 degree corner to expand the working surface, add bar seating and still keep the space open and inviting from adjoining spaces. Blueberry oak cabinets with satin brass hardware are balanced out with white quartz countertop and gray uppers. Wide plank vinyl helped keep this space masculine and formal while the stairs add a softer touch that's being complimented by warm tone furniture. To tie in warmth and masculinity, we've opted for custom miter-cut shelves in the corner. Windows give us great light and a corner cabinet can block a lot of it out, so floating shelves seemed most appropriate (no visible hardware). With a lot of material and colors, space still seems cohesive and inviting. Very formal, yet ready to be used for entertaining and day to day living. Hale Production Studios

This natural house design sits nestled within a hillside and looks out over the natural creek that flows from behind the home, underneath the home and diagonally across the front yard. The design intent of the home was to not overpower the natural elements of the site, but to work with nature to create vistas for enjoying nature. The home was designed to look smaller than its actual size so it doesn’t seem foreign to the site and the hillside. The home embraces an open floor plan and uses multiple design features to define the many spaces and to enable connection with nature. Design features include varying ceiling heights defining space, usage of large 13 foot high movable glass walls, usage of rich wood floors and numerous architectural elements and design features that integrate nature and the modern vocabulary. Even though the site is large, the buildable area is small due to the natural waterway traveling underneath (underground and is not visible) the home and across the site and significantly limited the buildable area. As a solution, the architect designed the home to nestle into the hillside above the underground waterway and by raising the primary living areas, courtyard with pool, and rear yard. The rear lawn is made of natural looking synthetic material and is surrounded by indigenous Georgia vegetation. The first floor spaces were optimized and include entryway, art gallery, theater, workshop, in-law suite, garages and multiple utility spaces.

What a fun yet challenging project. After numerous space plan options, we've finally decided on removing a wall and switching it out with cabinetry that is functional for a kitchen and the dining area. We've added a peninsula at a 120 degree corner to expand the working surface, add bar seating and still keep the space open and inviting from adjoining spaces. Blueberry oak cabinets with satin brass hardware are balanced out with white quartz countertop and gray uppers. Wide plank vinyl helped keep this space masculine and formal while the stairs add a softer touch that's being complimented by warm tone furniture. To tie in warmth and masculinity, we've opted for custom miter-cut shelves in the corner. Windows give us great light and a corner cabinet can block a lot of it out, so floating shelves seemed most appropriate (no visible hardware). With a lot of material and colors, space still seems cohesive and inviting. Very formal, yet ready to be used for entertaining and day to day living. Hale Production Studios

Built in 1893, this cottage home in Snohomish, WA has survived many changes including the addition of a 1400 sq. ft. basement that was hand dug. While the former owners did a fantastic job with concrete and structural supports, the framing, electrical and plumbing are….well, questionable. Phase 1 of this basement renovation includes the complete modernization of the existing bathroom. Future plans include a kitchenette and laundry room and demolition of existing walls to create an open dining room concept to allow more natural light to flow into the otherwise dark space. The new Ejector Pump Up Systems has a macerator to handle grey water and sewage including the addition of a new kitchenette and laundry room. When we opened the walls we discovered numerous electrical and plumbing issues including leaks behind the walls that where not yet detectable. At the same time, the existing gas heating system is being removed and replaced with a high efficient heat pump with Variable Refrigerant Temperature (VRT) technology. The underground plumbing is complete, the electrical has been cleaned up and its time to start putting this back together. Up next is a Wedi waterproof shower surround and heated tile floors, a new water closet and custom vanity. It’s a big job in a small space but the finished product will be clean, warm and inviting.

Fully embracing its natural setting and capturing both woodland and ocean views, this contemporary custom home uses open-plan living, glass and natural materials to fully showcase its West Coast setting. In the entertaining-style kitchen, white uppers, glass backsplash and quartz counters add elegance without distracting from the views. Wide-plank, white oak hardwood adds texture and warmth throughout. Unique features include the floor-to-ceiling Island stone and hearth with stone-inlaid wood storage and high-efficiency wood fireplace. A wallpaper feature wall adds a cozy element to the master suite complementing the clean lines. In the ensuite, a large window takes advantage of the private location, flooding the space with the natural light. Homeowners enjoy a contemporary, stand-alone soaker tub, frameless glass-enclosed shower, pebble tile feature behind floating shelves, and floating, vertical-grain silver elm double vanity, quartz counters and full-height mirror. The skylight-topped floating white oak staircase with above is a centrepiece of the split-level design, with its oak-topped glass interior railings. A neutral colour palette and clean lines highlight the homeowners’ art collection and the breathtaking views through numerous windows. For the home office, a full-height frameless glass wall sits atop a concrete pony wall allowing views through the home from front to back.

What a fun yet challenging project. After numerous space plan options, we've finally decided on removing a wall and switching it out with cabinetry that is functional for a kitchen and the dining area. We've added a peninsula at a 120 degree corner to expand the working surface, add bar seating and still keep the space open and inviting from adjoining spaces. Blueberry oak cabinets with satin brass hardware are balanced out with white quartz countertop and gray uppers. Wide plank vinyl helped keep this space masculine and formal while the stairs add a softer touch that's being complimented by warm tone furniture. To tie in warmth and masculinity, we've opted for custom miter-cut shelves in the corner. Windows give us great light and a corner cabinet can block a lot of it out, so floating shelves seemed most appropriate (no visible hardware). With a lot of material and colors, space still seems cohesive and inviting. Very formal, yet ready to be used for entertaining and day to day living. Hale Production Studios

Great spacious bathroom with lot of amenities. Photographer: Jon Upson
Large elegant master beige tile and porcelain tile drop-in bathtub photo in San Diego with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige walls and a two-piece toilet

Take in this sumptuously-styled alpine garage. The combination of our climate-proof design and temperature controlled Lifestyle Interior assures that even a Colorado whiteout is no match for this state-of-the-art 680sqft Summit Series. Bedecked in contemporary Cedar Plank Siding and Dark Aluminum Trim and Metal Waistcoat, this structure exudes modernity. Whether it’s simply a carport or a home-base for your future sporting and exploratory endeavors, don’t be afraid to get adventurous in fulfilling your practical storage needs with our Summit Series. With our turnkey interiors, it’s never been easier to place a finished auxiliary structure on your property in a timely manner. Start planning today by giving our 3-D Configurator a whirl to toggle with numerous interior and exterior design options and to get a transparent cost-estimate from design to shipping to installation for your dream structure. Plus, you can always save your design for later and share it with family and friends... Check it out, here: https://www.studio-shed.com/configurator-summit/

Industry: Building Design and Construction Location: USA The Objective Develop a 3D model for retaining wall design plan meant to block the flood water from a nearby river The Solution Several elements as specified by client were incorporated to design a retaining wall and a detailed 3D model was developed. Technology/Software Used 3Ds Max An environmental consultant had to assess a site and provide a plan to the client for retaining wall design meant to block the flood water from a nearby river from entering the site. Some old hand drawn sketches of a retaining wall structure and a PPT with landscaping plans, was all that was provided. Improvising the basic design and preparing a well rendered 3D model, to facilitate the consultant to give final presentation of the design to the client, was the task. Challenges 1. Client expected a design improvement based on a landscape PPT & some handmade designs developed in 2008. 2. Files were without any exact dimensions or additional inputs from the client 3. No plans, elevations and CAD files were given to support the team for further design revisions and 3D modeling 4. Client’s verbal explanations were to be used as a base to analyze and understand the requirements. 5. Numerous brainstorming sessions, repeated iterations and approvals. 6. Client was accessible only through email and conference call Engineering Solution Retaining the wall to stop flood water from a nearby river entering the area filling it with debris 1. Hi-Tech team deftly handled the communication, approvals and design development process. 2. Built a retaining wall to extend the useful area towards the flood plain of the river. 3. Retaining wall was designed as a 3 stepped structure with property (7 – 8 homes and a swimming pool) at the top. 4. Terraces with trees and shrubs were included. This design feature made the entire wall look like a natural retaining boulder covered with greenery. 5. Narrow walkways and stairs that led to the terrace were incorporated in the design 6. Subterranean garage under the flat ground surface of the property was also included as a part of the design Benefits 1. In a short span of one month, the team managed to develop a fully fledged design and plan for the retention wall. 2. Vacant space was effectively utilized; the stepped wall not only stooped the flood water from entering the client’s property, but also created space for 7-8 homes. 3. The designed structure looked very much a part of the natural terrain, and in fact added to the beauty of the surround

This contemporary 18,000 sq. ft. home in Paradise Valley, Arizona is a perfect mix of Gray limestone used on all horizontal surfaces and Cream, vein cut limestone on all vertical surfaces. The Gray limestone flooring was mud packed to meet 1.5 in. wood flooring areas using uncoupling membrane throughout. Numerous hours went into the layout to insure architectural detail lines were met. Oversized tiles were planned to ensure all layouts met crucial lines per the design. Blue limestone was used setting the path to the front entry. All pieces at the edges were mitered to appear to be thick, block stone. The veneer walls were alternated in size to reach the exact width at the top band of the walls. The edge detailing created interesting shadow play, both day and night, at interior and exterior locations. This detail is also noted on the fireplaces. Blue limestone hearths, which floated at all locations, used the same quirk mitered edges. Five showers throughout the main house share the same veneer and flooring materials. Blue limestone slab benches were fabricated to rest on a stainless steel frame. The shower floors were mapped out to the exact dimensions so there were no cuts, but rather the same size pieces continually framing the space to the center drain.

Take in this sumptuously-styled alpine garage. The combination of our climate-proof design and temperature controlled Lifestyle Interior assures that even a Colorado whiteout is no match for this state-of-the-art 680sqft Summit Series. Bedecked in contemporary Cedar Plank Siding and Dark Aluminum Trim and Metal Waistcoat, this structure exudes modernity. Whether it’s simply a carport or a home-base for your future sporting and exploratory endeavors, don’t be afraid to get adventurous in fulfilling your practical storage needs with our Summit Series. With our turnkey interiors, it’s never been easier to place a finished auxiliary structure on your property in a timely manner. Start planning today by giving our 3-D Configurator a whirl to toggle with numerous interior and exterior design options and to get a transparent cost-estimate from design to shipping to installation for your dream structure. Plus, you can always save your design for later and share it with family and friends... Check it out, here: https://www.studio-shed.com/configurator-summit/

Josh Partee Photography With sweeping views of the Willamette river and Mt. Hood, this Atwater Place condo was designed with a balance of minimalism and livability in mind. A complete kitchen remodel brought a dark interior kitchen to the light and a full furnishings package welcomed Los Angeles transplants home to their new modern and bright residence. Our clients, a retired camera operator for both feature films and television and a producer/production manager on numerous television series including Weeds and The Middle, relocated from their traditionally-styled LA bungalow to Portland in the Summer of 2014. The couple sought a design departure from their long-term California residence and a fresh start for their new life in the South Waterfront. With only two pieces of sentimental furniture and a handful of artwork included in the plan, we set out to create a comfortable and clean-lined furnishings package complimenting the broad southeast views. Organically shaped upholstery pieces juxtaposed with angular steel and wood tables create a soft balance in the open floor plan. Several custom pieces, including a dining table designed by our studio and a custom hand-blown glass chandelier crafted by Scott Schiesel with Lightlite compliment timeless pieces from Knoll, Herman Miller, and B&B Italia. The kitchen is designed to reflect light and create brilliance in a space that is otherwise naturally dark. A material balance of stainless steel, back painted glass, quartz composite, lacquer, and mirror all play their part in creating a vibrant cooking environment. We collectively decided to forgo the traditional island pendant for a linear commercial fixture that provides tremendous light to the prep surface and creates an unexpected architectural element. The mirrored prep island creates the illusion of open space while concealing casework and wine storage on the working side of the kitchen. It is worth noting that this project was designed and installed almost entirely while our clients were still living in LA and wrapping up professional obligations and selling their home. This afforded us the tremendous opportunity to send our clients to showrooms not available in Portland to view key pieces before final specification. Textiles and finish samples were approved via mail and communication took place over e-mail, telephone, and an occasional office visit. This unique process lead to a successful result and a beautifully balanced living environment.

This inviting bath is ingenious with its creative floor plan and use of materials. The owners requested that this space be functional but also distinctive and artistic. They didn’t want plain Jane. The remodel started with moving some walls and adding a skylight. Prior it was without windows and had poor ventilation. The skylight lets in natural light and fresh air. It operates with a remote, when it rains, it closes automatically with its solar powered sensor. Since the space is small and they needed a full bathroom, making the room feel large was an important part of the design layout. To achieve a broad visual footprint for the small space and open feel many pieces were raised off the floor. To start a wall hung vanity was installed which looks like its floating. The vanity has glass laminated panels and doors. Fabric was laminated in the glass for a one-of-kind surface. The countertop and sink are molded from one piece of glass. A high arc faucet was used to enhance the sleek look of the vanity. Above sconces that look like rock crystals are on either side of a recessed medicine cabinet with a large mirror. All these features increase the open feel of the bathroom. Keeping with the plan a wall hung toilet was used. The new toilet also includes a washlet with an array of automatic features that are fun and functional such as a night light, auto flush and more. The floor is always toasty warm with in-floor heating that even reaching into the shower. Currently, a simple console table has been placed with artwork above it. Later a wall hung cabinet will be installed for some extra storage. The shower is generous in size and comfort. An enjoyable feature is that a folding bench was include in the plan. The seat can be up or down when needed with ease. It also has a hand shower and its own set of controls conveniently close at hand to use while sitting. The bench is made of teak (warm to sit on, and easy care). A convenient niche with shelves can accommodate numerous items. The glass door is wide for easy access with a curbless entry and an infinity drain was used so the floor seamlessly blends with the rest of this space. All the finishes used are distinctive. Zebrano Marble, a very striking stone with rivers of veining, accents the vanity and a wall in the shower. The floor tile is a porcelain tile that mimics the look of leather, with a very tactile look and feel. The other tile used has a unique geometric pattern that compliments the other materials exquisitely. With thoughtful design and planning this space feels open, and uniquely personal to the homeowners.

Take in this sumptuously-styled alpine garage. The combination of our climate-proof design and temperature controlled Lifestyle Interior assures that even a Colorado whiteout is no match for this state-of-the-art 680sqft Summit Series. Bedecked in contemporary Cedar Plank Siding and Dark Aluminum Trim and Metal Waistcoat, this structure exudes modernity. Whether it’s simply a carport or a home-base for your future sporting and exploratory endeavors, don’t be afraid to get adventurous in fulfilling your practical storage needs with our Summit Series. With our turnkey interiors, it’s never been easier to place a finished auxiliary structure on your property in a timely manner. Start planning today by giving our 3-D Configurator a whirl to toggle with numerous interior and exterior design options and to get a transparent cost-estimate from design to shipping to installation for your dream structure. Plus, you can always save your design for later and share it with family and friends... Check it out, here: https://www.studio-shed.com/configurator-summit/

This project is a new 5,900 sf. primary residence for a couple with three children. The site is slightly elevated above the residential street and enjoys winter views of the Potomac River. The family’s requirements included five bedrooms, five full baths, a powder room, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, lower level recreation room, exercise room, media room and numerous storage spaces. Also included was the request for an outdoor terrace and adequate outdoor storage, including provision for the storage of bikes and kayaks. The family needed a home that would have two entrances, the primary entrance, and a mudroom entry that would provide generous storage spaces for the family’s active lifestyle. Due to the small lot size, the challenge was to accommodate the family’s requirements, while remaining sympathetic to the scale of neighboring homes. The residence employs a “T” shaped plan to aid in minimizing the massing visible from the street, while organizing interior spaces around a private outdoor terrace space accessible from the living and dining spaces. A generous front porch and a gambrel roof diminish the home’s scale, providing a welcoming view along the street front. A path along the right side of the residence leads to the family entrance and a small outbuilding that provides ready access to the bikes and kayaks while shielding the rear terrace from view of neighboring homes. The two entrances join a central stair hall that leads to the eat-in kitchen overlooking the great room. Window seats and a custom built banquette provide gathering spaces, while the French doors connect the great room to the terrace where the arbor transitions to the garden. A first floor guest suite, separate from the family areas of the home, affords privacy for both guests and hosts alike. The second floor Master Suite enjoys views of the Potomac River through a second floor arched balcony visible from the front. The exterior is composed of a board and batten first floor with a cedar shingled second floor and gambrel roof. These two contrasting materials and the inclusion of a partially recessed front porch contribute to the perceived diminution of the home’s scale relative to its smaller neighbors. The overall intention was to create a close fit between the residence and the neighboring context, both built and natural. Builder: E.H. Johnstone Builders Anice Hoachlander Photography

This New England farmhouse is surrounded by 100 rural acres of farmland and pastures. Patty DeLang Winberg and Jennifer Flores Durfee collaborated on this project to create an amazing kitchen that met all the homeowner’s wishes, wants, and needs. This functional kitchen accommodates numerous work spaces including: a harvest island to wash and prep farm veggies, a butler’s pantry, a larger island offering seating for up to 10 people and a beverage space for gatherings as well as daily use. The architectural details and unique finishes complete the design. Pairing custom inset cabinetry with beautiful walnut counters and professional appliances with an imported limestone and zinc hood created a European flavor the clients love! Photo Credit: Jessica Delaney Photography