Transitional bedroom photo in DC Metro

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

The Gioia's Kitchen Mountainside NJ White Painted with Caffee Glaze and Liberty Bell stain on Cherry cabinets
Inspiration for a large timeless galley porcelain tile and beige floor open concept kitchen remodel in New York with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and an island

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

At 1850 square feet, the Prairie Passive is an extremely energy efficient two bedroom, two bathroom home. Designed for aging in place and accessibility, the unique floor plan optimizes views of the harbor despite the narrow lot. Carefully placed windows and a screened outdoor entertaining area with gas fireplace, provide privacy and a place of refuge in the bustling public marina setting. True to the prairie style, the form was kept low and friendly with hipped roofs and broad overhanging eaves. This ultra energy efficient home relies on extremely high levels of insulation, air-tight detailing and construction, and the implementation of high performance, custom made European windows and doors by Zola Windows ( http://www.zolawindows.com/) . Zola’s Thermo Wood line, which boasts R-11 triple glazing and is thermally broken with a layer of patented German Purenit®, was selected for the project. Natural daylight enters both from the Zola tilt & turn and fixed windows in the living and dining areas, and through the terrace door that leads seamlessly outside to the natural landscape. Photographer: Chris DiNottia

This is the newly renovated dining room, complete with a large window which lets in lots of light and great views. Plants love the light and help clean the air, adding beauty and good health to the space.

Example of a transitional bedroom design in DC Metro

What had once been a purely utilitarian bathroom — all bland white fixtures and little sense of personality — became an opportunity to embrace the carefree spirit of a second home by the Pacific. Rather than treating the space with the restraint of a primary residence, we leaned into something more playful and transportive, drawing from the colors and textures of the coastline just beyond the windows. A wallcovering patterned with oversized seashells in soft blue and white wraps the room like a seaside interpretation of a French toile, giving the space a sense of whimsy without losing its sophistication. The palette throughout echoes sea glass, salt air, and sun-faded driftwood, creating a room that feels equal parts breezy retreat and quiet escape. At the center of the design, a light wood vanity with fluted doors introduces warmth and subtle texture, balancing the cool tones that flow through the room. Inside the shower, a back wall of pale blue fan tile unfurls like scales or waves, catching the light with a softness that feels almost aquatic. Overhead, a sculptural light fixture woven from natural fibers brings an unexpected touch of humor and movement — reminiscent of the swaying fringe of a hula dancer’s grass skirt. The result is a bathroom that no longer feels anonymous or obligatory, but instead captures the relaxed, slightly nostalgic joy of life lived near the ocean. Photos: Bernardo Grijalva

Bedroom - transitional bedroom idea in DC Metro

Inspiration for a transitional bedroom remodel in DC Metro

Elevate your home with a nature-inspired masterpiece that marries artistry and modern craftsmanship. In a field of dusky pink, mahogany-colored branches entwine with pale yellow and cream flowers, creating a captivating blend of boldness and delicacy. Crafted from 100% premium EnduraStran nylon yarn, this rug offers enduring beauty in every corner of your home. Its machine-loomed construction and low pile height ensure easy maintenance, making it perfect for households with kids and pets. Utilizing cutting-edge dyeing techniques, this vintage-inspired design brings antique motifs and intricate detailing to life. Transform your living space into a sanctuary where time-honored beauty seamlessly intertwines with the elegance of nature. Features: --Made of durable commercial-grade premium EnduraStran nylon yarn. --Art and science meld with our PrecisionPoint Custom Yarn Dye System allowing for supreme colorfastness. --U/V fade-, stain-, and fire-resistant; Ideal for high-traffic and family-friendly areas, like living room, family room, den and bedroom. --Serged edges provide long-lasting wear and reduced fraying. ---Synthetic Loc-Bak backing ensures rug lays flat and won’t curl. --CRI Green Label Plus™ Certified for improved indoor air quality. --Family- and pet-friendly low pile is approx. 3/8"H; easy to care for, vacuum and spot clean with water. --Made in the USA; Our rugs are made for you at the time you place your order, so there's no stock sitting in warehouses. Please allow two weeks for manufacture and shipping on regular-sized items (for oversized items, please allow up to 4 weeks).

At 1850 square feet, the Prairie Passive is an extremely energy efficient two bedroom, two bathroom home. Designed for aging in place and accessibility, the unique floor plan optimizes views of the harbor despite the narrow lot. Carefully placed windows and a screened outdoor entertaining area with gas fireplace, provide privacy and a place of refuge in the bustling public marina setting. True to the prairie style, the form was kept low and friendly with hipped roofs and broad overhanging eaves. This ultra energy efficient home relies on extremely high levels of insulation, air-tight detailing and construction, and the implementation of high performance, custom made European windows and doors by Zola Windows ( http://www.zolawindows.com/) . Zola’s Thermo Wood line, which boasts R-11 triple glazing and is thermally broken with a layer of patented German Purenit®, was selected for the project. Natural daylight enters both from the Zola tilt & turn and fixed windows in the living and dining areas, and through the terrace door that leads seamlessly outside to the natural landscape. Photographer: Chris DiNottia

The master bedroom projects a decidedly more serene air, with neutral gray and pale eggplant colors providing the backdrop. The carpet and velvet drapes are from RH, the sofa is by Calligaris, the leather-topped side table is by Barclay Butera, and the credenza at right is from IKEA. The stone Buddha at right was purchased in Tokyo.

Bathroom - modern bathroom idea in Baltimore

Example of a transitional master porcelain tile and white floor bathroom design in Toronto with blue walls and a hinged shower door

Suspended above the sunlit table like a memory of the sea, the oversized scallop rattan pendant light feels less like a fixture and more like a whispered story. Its handwoven curves mimic the soft language of waves, the quiet sweep of sand across a shoreline. In this coastal dining room, where light pours through tall windows and the air feels almost salt-touched, the pendant offers more than illumination—it offers soul. Each woven strand holds a trace of human touch, a patience that mirrors the rhythm of tides. The natural fibers cast a honeyed glow over linen cushions and pale oak, wrapping the space in a cocoon of comfort and calm. It's a light that doesn't shout; it hums, grounding the room in an easy, effortless elegance. Here, under its soft bloom, moments gather—laughter, quiet breakfasts, long conversations—each one stitched gently into the heart of the home.

Example of a minimalist bathroom design in Baltimore

At 1850 square feet, the Prairie Passive is an extremely energy efficient two bedroom, two bathroom home. Designed for aging in place and accessibility, the unique floor plan optimizes views of the harbor despite the narrow lot. Carefully placed windows and a screened outdoor entertaining area with gas fireplace, provide privacy and a place of refuge in the bustling public marina setting. True to the prairie style, the form was kept low and friendly with hipped roofs and broad overhanging eaves. This ultra energy efficient home relies on extremely high levels of insulation, air-tight detailing and construction, and the implementation of high performance, custom made European windows and doors by Zola Windows ( http://www.zolawindows.com/) . Zola’s Thermo Wood line, which boasts R-11 triple glazing and is thermally broken with a layer of patented German Purenit®, was selected for the project. Natural daylight enters both from the Zola tilt & turn and fixed windows in the living and dining areas, and through the terrace door that leads seamlessly outside to the natural landscape. Photographer: Chris DiNottia

Example of a kitchen design in Toronto