A perfect blend of old world charm and modern luxury, this home is sure to be a neighborhood favorite. An open layout with inviting fireplaces make this the perfect place for entertaining and relaxing. Around the home you will find unique stone accents, wood and metal staircases, custom kitchen and bathrooms, and a rec room complete with bar and pool table. This craftsman style residence uses a mix of the Boston Blend Mosaic and Square & Rectangular thin stone veneer. It was used as a kitchen backsplash, interior wall accent, on multiple fireplaces, and stone archways. Great care was taken so the stones could be installed without a mortared joint. Corners were used along archways to create the illusion of full thickness stones and to allow for a more consistent and complete look. Scattered throughout, the mason cut custom large pieces of stone and wood to use as focal points. New England’s finest real stone veneer was the perfect choice to pair with the rustic décor. The variety of colors offered in our popular Boston Blend complement any design setting with an elegant touch. For more photos and video, please visit www.stoneyard.com/973

Large transitional style kitchen remodel for under 100K . Wow what a change. The original kitchen area consisted of a small u shaped cabinet layout with an eat in area next to it for a small kitchen table. We changed everything for the new design. The small kitchen sink window and eat in table window were removed and a new large central window was installed. A new large opening was created between the kitchen and dining room as well as a new large opening between the existing dining room and adjacent family room. This gave the whole first floor a new open floor plan. New Coretec Plus 5” Carolina Pine flooring was installed over entire first floor. New Fabuwood cabinetry in the Galaxy Frost door style were used on the perimeter and contrasting Fieldstone cabinetry in the Bristol door in Peppercorn finish were used for the island. These cabinets and colors give the kitchen a bright clean look with simple lines. A large farm sink was chosen for in front of the new picture window offering views of the clients great back yard. Two different countertops surfaces were used, Jet Mist Honed for the perimeter and Mont Blanc Honed for the island. The new large island provides lots of seating for family and friends ( it’s my favorite part of this kitchen remodel ). All the first floor drywall was touched up, painted, and Voila!! A whole new first floor.

Traditional fireplaces bring timeless elegance and architectural character to the heart of the home. Defined by classic proportions, refined detailing, and enduring materials, these fireplaces serve as a natural focal point in living rooms, family rooms, libraries, and formal spaces. Crafted from premium precast cast stone, our traditional fireplace mantels and surrounds are designed to replicate the beauty and depth of hand-carved natural stone while offering superior durability and consistency. Subtle profiles, balanced moldings, and carefully shaped columns and headers create a warm, sophisticated look that complements classic, Mediterranean, European, and transitional interiors. Each fireplace surround is made to order with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring precise geometry, smooth finishes, and a timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style. Whether paired with wood-burning, gas, or electric fireplaces, traditional designs enhance both historic and newly built homes, adding value, charm, and lasting beauty. Perfect for luxury residences, custom homes, and high-end renovations, traditional fireplaces remain a symbol of craftsmanship, comfort, and enduring design.

Hästens Maranga Light as air. Grounded in tradition. The Hästens Maranga embodies the perfect balance of responsiveness, elegance, and handcrafted precision. Named from the Maori word "Maranga," meaning "to rise up," this bed delivers a buoyant, uplifting sleep experience that gently supports you with every movement. Expertly handmade in Sweden with 100% natural materials — including horsehair, wool, cotton, and flax — Maranga breathes effortlessly, maintaining a naturally hygienic and temperature-regulating sleep environment. Its unique spring system and precise layering create the sensation of weightlessness, while providing deep, consistent support. Refined yet accessible, the Maranga is the most agile of all Hästens beds — offering a smooth, responsive feel that makes rising in the morning as delightful as drifting off at night. Key Features: Light, responsive feel with medium-firm support Triple-layer spring system adapts to your body with precision Hand-layered horsehair, wool, cotton, and flax for breathability and comfort Fully handcrafted in Sweden Customizable in firmness, fabric, and size Naturally hypoallergenic and free from synthetic materials Rise refreshed. Sleep naturally. Visit our private showroom in Birmingham, MI to experience the Maranga difference.

Four fireplaces grace the first floor of this Traditional style house plan. At the heart of this home the dining room and grand room share a see through fireplace. French doors open from the spacious kitchen and family room to the grand room. The luxurious master suite is crafted with a tray and coffered ceiling and complimented with a beautiful bathroom and expansive walk in closet. The second level consists of three secondary bedrooms and a TV room. We offer floor plan modifications on all of our Traditional style house plans. The Ambermont House Plan 01170 by Garrell Associates, Inc. Design by Michael William Garrell

Modern Wall Unit Exential Y44 by Spar Made in Italy Exential by Spar is an italian modular wall unit line that could be an excellent design solution for any modern or contemporary styled living room. Consisting of individual pieces, it allows you to reveal the creativity and arrange the composition by yourself, organizing only those areas you want in the way you need it and prefer. The entertainment center provides an abundance of storage space, both hidden and exposed, to aid with organization of all your belongings. Large TV area allows to place a huge TV with all the media devices, turning the living room into a movie theater. The Wall Unit Composition Exential Y44 is shown in the next colors/finishes: Structure - Elm finish, Matt White lacquer; Front - Elm finish, Matt White lacquer; Glass - 4mm glass. PLEASE NOTE: The Exential is a modular wall unit line offering a wide variety of units in different sizes. You can order this wall unit either as a complete composition, as shown in the main picture, or build your own composition according to your own dimensions and preferences. Please contact our office about details on the customization of this wall unit. MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION: Structure: Made with particle board of wood, covered with E1 melamine finishes or high gloss lacquer Drawers: Made with panels of wood particles in E1-coated finish PVC beech. Metal runners with fine race to fall Glass: 4mm glass The starting price is for the Exential Wall Unit Composition Y44 as shown in the main picture. Dimensions: Wall Unit Composition: W124" x D17.7" x H72" Individual Components: Base 2-Drawer Cabinet: W94.5" x D17.7" x H12.4" Vertical Door Cabinet (each): W11.8" x D15" x H47.2" Square Box (each): W23.6" x D15" x H23.6"

The design creates two new terrace gardens that function as outdoor room additions to the home. One terrace serves as a community garden room while a second terrace serves as a secluded garden of reflection. The garden of reflection offers beautiful views of perennial plants and orchids, but its most prominent feature is a slow flowing glass and granite fountain. The fountain consist of three glass blown globes by Duncan McClelland delicately placed on top of a granite base. Water flows through the granite base creating the illusion that the globe are floating on perfectly still water. Integrated fiber-optic lighting illuminates each globe.

Kitchen - kitchen idea in Seattle

SPECIAL ORDER 8-14 WEEKS Made in Italy by Gruppo Spar Holding Italian Wall Unit SP-Composition Y23. This modern modular wall unit consists of individual pieces that can be arranged to create an excellent design solution for any living room where it would otherwise be difficult to place a large TV on a default joint composition. The entertainment center provides an abundance of storage space, both hidden and exposed, to aid with organization. The Wall Unit Composition Y23 is shown in the next colors/finishes: Structure - White Ash and Anthracite Ash finishes; Front - White Ash and Anthracite Ash finishes; Glass - Mirrored glass PLEASE NOTE: The Exential is a modular wall unit line offering a wide variety of units in different sizes. You can order this wall unit either as a complete composition, as shown in the main picture, or build your own composition according to your own dimensions and preferences. Please contact our office about details on the customization of this wall unit. MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION: Structure: Made with particle board of wood, covered with E1 melamine finishes or high gloss / matt lacquered Glass: 4 mm glass Drawers: Made with panels of wood particles in E1-coated finish PVC beech. Metal runners with fine race to fall The starting price is for the Wall Unit Composition Y23 as shown in the main picture. Dimensions: Shown Wall Unit Composition: W141.7" x D22.8" x H72.2"

Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center 26767 Agoura Road, Calabasas, CA 91302 Phone 818.880.0011 Fax 818.880.0411 12050 Ventura Blvd.,Studio City, CA 91604 Phone 818.755.1111 Fax 818.755.9111 Since the introduction of the first self-ventilated range and oven in 1961 and downdraft ventilated range in 1965, Jenn-Air brand has consistently grown its reputation as a technology and design innovator. Save up to $4,498 with Purchase of Select Jenn-Air Brand Appliances during the "Your Purchase, Your Reward” and "Fire & Ice" rebates* *Limited time only. See Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center for complete details. Offer valid in the U.S.A. through December 31st, 2014.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

12 " travertine with Bliss Crystal Blends, Purple ( LG4G)
Example of a trendy stone tile alcove shower design in Atlanta

The space exudes modern elegance with large-format beige marble-look wall tiles that create a seamless and luxurious backdrop. The shower floor features a marble hexagon mosaic, adding texture and sophistication. A niche framed with brushed gold trim provides both style and practicality, while a built-in bench enhances comfort and convenience. A frameless shower enclosure with brushed gold hardware showcases a minimalist aesthetic, complemented by a matching brushed gold shower head. A freestanding bathtub is set against a tiled backsplash, serving as a focal point of relaxation. The slate shaker-style vanity cabinets are topped with beautiful white Calacatta engineered quartz countertops, offering a striking contrast. Above the vanity, LED mirrors provide soft, flattering lighting, while large linen cabinets ensure ample storage. Brushed gold hardware is consistent throughout the bathroom, tying the design together with a warm, cohesive touch. Finally, the beige marble-look floor ties the room together, emphasizing the bright and airy ambiance of this contemporary retreat.

Contemporary Italian Wall Unit VV 3922 Made in Italy Perfect for both modern and contemporary styled interiors, this modular wall unit line offers lots of customization options so everyone could adjust the composition according to the individual's size and color requirements, creating an entertainment center of the dream. The wall unit line features lots of different units, that are available in several sizes and can wall mounted both vertically and horizontally. All the units from this entertainment center furniture collection are available in walnut, white ash, ivory ash and mink ash wood structure finishes as well as white and mud high gloss lacquers. The structure and the front doors of the same unit can be ordered in different finishes/lacquers to add unique and elegant contrast look to the wall unit design. Features: E1-Class ecological panels, which are produced exclusively through a wood recycling production process The structure and the front in wood finishes are made of chipboard The lacquered structures and fronts are made of REAL POLISH SCRATCH PROOF LACQUERING, which is non toxic and non allergic products All the panels are 0.7" thick Drawers mounted on metal runners with MDF bottom panel, height adjustable and soft-close system Metal snap-on hinges with adjustable height The starting price is for the VV Wall Unit Composition 3922 as shown in the main picture in Ivory Ash / Walnut finishes. (Consists of: Base Drawer Cabinet W59" x H17.7", Base Drawer Cabinet W47.2" x H10.2", TV Panel W47.2", Four Hanging Square Boxes W23.6 x H23.6" each). Dimensions: Wall Unit: W106.3" x D18.3" x H82.7" Individual Components: Base Drawer Cabinet H17.7": W59" x D18.3" x H17.7" Base Drawer Cabinet H10.2": W47.2" x D18.3" x H10.2" Hanging Square Box: W23.6" x D13.8" x H23.6" TV Panel (wall mounted): W47.2" x D0.8" x H35.4"

Modern Italian Sofa / Sectional Sofa CLARISSA 519E by Chateau d'Ax Italia. The innovative design of this sofa collection really impresses. Unusual tufting and stitching make the sectional look really modern and alluring, providing great comfort at the same time. Clarissa Sofa collection is modular and consists of multiple units that offer endless customization opportunities. You can get it as a Sofa, Loveseat and Chair or Sectional Sofa. Moreover, all pieces are available either with or without Power Motion Recliner mechanisms, providing additional lounging comfort. Can be special ordered in different shapes, sizes and upholstery materials: fabric & leather. Contact us for details and prices - 718-676-1977. Features: Covering: leather or fabric Frame: hardwood load bearing rails, high density particle board Back cushions: polyurethane foam Seat and Arm interiors: polyurethane foam Back suspensions: webbings (elastic belts) Seat suspensions: nosag spring Feet: black plastic feet h1.5" Dimensions: Sectional Sofa (main image): W(63" x 128" x 103") x D40" x H35"

In today’s world of smart interiors and luxury-inspired home décor, LED Mirror backlit designs have become a defining trend. From elegant bathrooms to sophisticated dressing areas and premium commercial spaces, LED Mirrors are now more than just reflective surfaces—they are statement pieces that combine technology, style, and functionality. Whether you are renovating your home, upgrading a salon, designing a hotel, or creating a modern workspace, investing in a high-quality LED mirror can instantly elevate the atmosphere. The perfect balance of illumination and aesthetics makes these mirrors one of the most sought-after interior additions in contemporary architecture. This blog explores everything you need to know about LED Mirror backlit solutions, their benefits, applications, features, and why they are becoming essential in modern living spaces. What Is an LED Mirror Backlit Design? An LED Mirror backlit system refers to a mirror equipped with LED lighting installed behind the mirror surface. Instead of visible front-facing bulbs, the light gently radiates from the rear edges, producing a soft halo effect around the mirror. This indirect illumination creates a luxurious and ambient glow while providing practical lighting for everyday tasks such as grooming, makeup application, shaving, and skincare routines. Unlike traditional mirrors, LED Mirrors offer:

• Energy-efficient illumination
• Elegant visual appeal
• Better light distribution
• Enhanced functionality
• Modern smart features

The growing popularity of minimalist and contemporary interior styles has significantly increased the demand for these innovative mirror solutions. Why LED Mirrors Are Becoming So Popular The rise of modern interior design trends has changed how homeowners and designers view lighting and décor. Today, functionality alone is not enough—people want products that are stylish, efficient, and technologically advanced. This is exactly where LED Mirrors stand out. 1. Modern Aesthetic Appeal One of the biggest reasons people choose an LED Mirror backlit design is its sleek and luxurious appearance. The soft illumination creates a floating effect that adds depth and sophistication to any room. Whether installed in:

• Bathrooms
• Bedrooms
• Dressing rooms
• Salons
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Retail stores

LED mirrors instantly make the environment look more premium and visually appealing. 2. Superior Lighting Quality Traditional overhead lights often create shadows on the face, making grooming tasks difficult. In contrast, LED Mirrors provide even and balanced illumination. The backlit glow:

• Reduces harsh shadows
• Improves visibility
• Enhances facial clarity
• Creates a comfortable lighting experience

This makes them ideal for makeup artists, skincare professionals, and anyone who values precision grooming. 3. Energy Efficiency LED technology is known for its low power consumption. Compared to conventional lighting systems, LED lights use significantly less electricity while delivering brighter and more consistent illumination. An LED Mirror backlit setup can help:

• Reduce energy bills
• Lower electricity usage
• Support eco-friendly living
• Increase long-term savings

Additionally, LED lights have a much longer lifespan than traditional bulbs, reducing maintenance costs. Key Features of Modern LED Mirrors Today’s LED Mirrors come with advanced features that improve convenience and user experience. Touch Sensor Controls Most modern LED mirrors include touch-sensitive buttons that allow users to:

• Turn lights on/off
• Adjust brightness
• Change color temperature

This creates a seamless and futuristic experience. Adjustable Brightness Different tasks require different lighting conditions. Many LED Mirror backlit models allow users to customize brightness levels according to their needs. For example:

• Bright white light for makeup application
• Warm soft light for relaxation
• Neutral lighting for everyday grooming

Anti-Fog Technology Foggy mirrors are a common issue in bathrooms. Advanced LED Mirrors often include built-in demister pads that keep the mirror clear even after hot showers. This feature improves convenience and eliminates the need to manually wipe the mirror. Smart Connectivity Some premium LED mirrors now integrate with smart home systems and include:

• Bluetooth speakers
• Digital clocks
• Temperature displays
• Voice control
• Motion sensors

These features transform ordinary mirrors into intelligent lifestyle products. Applications of LED Mirror Backlit Solutions One of the reasons LED Mirrors are so versatile is their ability to fit into various spaces and design themes. Bathroom Interiors Bathrooms are the most common place for LED Mirror backlit installations. The ambient glow creates a spa-like atmosphere while improving daily grooming routines. Benefits include:

• Better lighting for shaving and makeup
• Enhanced bathroom aesthetics
• Increased property value
• Luxurious visual appeal

Modern hotels and luxury homes frequently use LED mirrors to create elegant bathroom experiences. Bedroom and Dressing Areas LED mirrors are increasingly popular in dressing rooms and vanity setups. The balanced lighting helps users prepare more effectively while adding glamour to the space. Fashion enthusiasts and beauty professionals especially appreciate the clarity provided by high-quality LED illumination. Commercial Spaces Businesses such as:

• Salons
• Spas
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Retail stores

use LED Mirrors to create premium customer experiences. A stylish mirror with backlit illumination can significantly improve the ambiance of commercial interiors and leave a lasting impression on clients. Fitness Studios and Gyms Modern fitness studios are now incorporating LED Mirror backlit designs to create dynamic and visually engaging workout environments. The combination of lighting and reflection enhances motivation while improving overall studio aesthetics. Choosing the Right LED Mirror With so many options available, selecting the right LED Mirrors requires careful consideration. Consider the Size The mirror size should complement the dimensions of the room and vanity area. For smaller bathrooms:

• Compact rectangular mirrors work best

For larger spaces:

• Oversized backlit mirrors create a dramatic statement

Shape Matters LED mirrors are available in multiple shapes, including:

• Rectangular
• Oval
• Round
• Square
• Custom geometric designs

Round mirrors often create softer aesthetics, while rectangular designs provide a more modern and minimalist appearance. Color Temperature Selection Lighting tone affects the mood and functionality of a room. Common options include:

• Warm White (cozy ambiance)
• Cool White (bright and crisp)
• Natural White (balanced daylight effect)

Choosing the right temperature depends on the intended use and interior style. Frame vs Frameless Designs Frameless LED Mirror backlit designs are popular for contemporary interiors because of their clean and minimalistic appearance. Framed mirrors, on the other hand, can add decorative character and complement traditional décor themes. Benefits of Installing LED Mirrors in Homes The demand for LED Mirrors continues to grow because they provide both practical and aesthetic advantages. Enhanced Interior Value Modern buyers and homeowners appreciate premium features. Installing LED mirrors can:

• Improve visual appeal
• Increase perceived luxury
• Enhance property value

This makes them a worthwhile investment for renovations and property upgrades. Improved Daily Routine From brushing teeth to skincare routines, lighting quality impacts everyday experiences. LED mirrors improve visibility and comfort, making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Space Enhancement The glow produced by an LED Mirror backlit design creates the illusion of larger and brighter spaces. This is particularly beneficial for:

• Small bathrooms
• Compact apartments
• Narrow dressing areas

The added light reflection opens up the room visually. LED Mirrors and Sustainable Living Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in modern design choices. LED mirrors support eco-conscious lifestyles in several ways. Lower Energy Consumption LED technology consumes far less energy compared to incandescent lighting systems. Longer Lifespan LED lights typically last thousands of hours longer than traditional bulbs, reducing waste and replacement frequency. Reduced Heat Emission Unlike older lighting systems, LEDs produce minimal heat, making them safer and more energy efficient. As more homeowners prioritize green living, LED Mirrors are becoming an environmentally responsible design solution. Current Trends in LED Mirror Design The world of interior design continues to evolve, and LED Mirror backlit trends are becoming increasingly innovative. Minimalist Designs Simple frameless mirrors with subtle lighting remain highly popular in modern homes. Smart Mirrors Technology integration is shaping the future

The Gautier Office brand has an established position as a market leader and works to develop professional products for small business/industry, local communities and self employed professionals. Our Office Collections offer businesses a comprehensive, consistent range of solutions.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

The Science of Light and Learning To understand the relationship between lighting and learning, it’s critical to grasp the concept of correlated colour temperature (CCT). CCT refers to the warmth or coolness of light, measured in Kelvin (K). Lower CCTs (around 3000K) provide a warm, cosy atmosphere, while higher CCTs (5000K or above) emit a cool, daylight-like glow. Studies have shown that cool white light, which mimics natural daylight, can increase alertness and mood, contributing to improved cognitive performance. LED lighting, with its ability to produce this desired CCT, makes an ideal choice for educational settings. LED Lighting: Brightening the Future of Education Energy Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness One of the main advantages of LED lighting is its energy efficiency. Traditional lighting solutions like fluorescent and incandescent bulbs consume much more energy to produce the same amount of light as LEDs, which is not only environmentally harmful but also financially costly. Switching to LED lights can result in substantial cost savings for schools, enabling them to redirect funds to other critical areas of education. Durability and Longevity LED lights are renowned for their durability and longevity. They have a significantly longer lifespan compared to conventional lights, which means less frequent replacement and reduced maintenance costs. This durability also minimises disruptions caused by light failure, providing a consistent, well-lit learning environment. Improved Visibility and Reduced Eye Strain With their superior colour rendering index (CRI), LED lights render colours more accurately, leading to improved visibility. This is particularly beneficial in educational settings, where activities often require distinguishing fine details and colours. LED lights also emit less glare than traditional lighting solutions, reducing eye strain and fatigue. This can lead to better concentration and increased comfort for both students and teachers. Incorporating LED Lighting in Classrooms: Practical Considerations When transitioning to LED lighting in classrooms, a few key factors need to be taken into account. Firstly, the lighting design should ensure an even distribution of light, preventing shadowy or overly bright spots that could distract or discomfort students. Secondly, the integration of dimming capabilities can provide flexibility, allowing educators to adjust the lighting level based on the task at hand. Finally, lighting controls can be used to take advantage of natural light, automatically dimming or turning off the LEDs when sufficient daylight is present. Conclusion: The Bright Promise of LED Lighting in Education As education systems continue to evolve, it’s imperative to keep sight of the physical factors that significantly impact learning, one of which is lighting. LED technology, with its myriad benefits, offers an innovative and effective way to enhance the quality of lighting in classrooms. By prioritising investments in such improvements, we can take a significant step towards creating an optimised learning environment that nurtures the educational success of future generations.