Gunite pool and spa overlooking the Connecticut River
Example of a custom-shaped pool design in Bridgeport

The eating nook features a separate bar and easy access to the grill area and outdoor seating covered by glass. // Image : Benjamin Benschneider Photography

The Clients contacted Cecil Baker + Partners to reconfigure and remodel the top floor of a prominent Philadelphia high-rise into an urban pied-a-terre. The forty-five story apartment building, overlooking Washington Square Park and its surrounding neighborhoods, provided a modern shell for this truly contemporary renovation. Originally configured as three penthouse units, the 8,700 sf interior, as well as 2,500 square feet of terrace space, was to become a single residence with sweeping views of the city in all directions. The Client’s mission was to create a city home for collecting and displaying contemporary glass crafts. Their stated desire was to cast an urban home that was, in itself, a gallery. While they enjoy a very vital family life, this home was targeted to their urban activities - entertainment being a central element. The living areas are designed to be open and to flow into each other, with pockets of secondary functions. At large social events, guests feel free to access all areas of the penthouse, including the master bedroom suite. A main gallery was created in order to house unique, travelling art shows. Stemming from their desire to entertain, the penthouse was built around the need for elaborate food preparation. Cooking would be visible from several entertainment areas with a “show” kitchen, provided for their renowned chef. Secondary preparation and cleaning facilities were tucked away. The architects crafted a distinctive residence that is framed around the gallery experience, while also incorporating softer residential moments. Cecil Baker + Partners embraced every element of the new penthouse design beyond those normally associated with an architect’s sphere, from all material selections, furniture selections, furniture design, and art placement. Barry Halkin and Todd Mason Photography

Many traditional two story floor plans - like the one pictured here - include the staircase inside, or adjacent to, the foyer. These more traditional floor plans provide the feeling of a grand entrance - open and airy - with tons of open railing and a tall ceiling to draw the eye upward. Design Build Chapel Hill custom homes by Stanton Homes.

An open upper-level catwalk overlooks the double-height great room, maintaining visual connection between the home’s two levels while preserving the volume and natural light of the main living space.

Nick Straabe (Dreamscapes Landscape Architecture)
Inspiration for a mid-sized rustic home design remodel in Orange County

Amazing view from the back deck.
Mid-sized mountain style backyard deck photo with no cover

This 10,000 sqft custom home features Kraftmaid Cabinets, large bar and entertainment room, and a fantastic master bath, all overlooking a beautiful pool.

Living room - living room idea in New York

The upper media room features a TV over the sleek fireplace with plenty of comfortable seating. // Image : Benjamin Benschneider Photography
Example of a transitional carpeted and gray floor family room design in Seattle with a stone fireplace, beige walls, a ribbon fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

The stair landing overlooking the dining room. Built by Revival Building Group.
Inspiration for a country home design remodel in Philadelphia

Her master bedroom is perched at the end of the west side of the home, enjoying the same dramatic sunlit views as the great room and kitchen. // Image : Benjamin Benschneider Photography

The transverse axis of the great room has its own focus and hints at more private spaces beyond that share the abundant daylighting. // Image : Benjamin Benschneider Photography

Walkway path to to the back deck reveals breathtaking views.
Mid-sized mountain style backyard deck photo with no cover

Freestanding bathtub - modern master gray floor freestanding bathtub idea in Toronto with white walls and a hinged shower door

Open concept kitchen - traditional l-shaped ceramic tile open concept kitchen idea in New York with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Trendy backyard deck photo in San Francisco with decking and no cover