Search results for "Paying extremely" in Home Design Ideas

This modern green home offers both a vacation destination on Cape Cod near local family members and an opportunity for rental income.
FAMILY ROOTS. A West Coast couple living in the San Francisco Bay Area sought a permanent East Coast vacation home near family members living on Cape Cod. As academic professionals focused on sustainability, they sought a green, energy efficient home that was well-aligned with their values. With no green homes available for sale on Cape Cod, they decided to purchase land near their family and build their own.
SLOPED SITE. Comprised of a 3/4 acre lot nestled in the pines, the steeply sloping terrain called for a plan that embraced and took advantage of the slope. Of equal priority was optimizing solar exposure, preserving privacy from abutters, and creating outdoor living space. The design accomplished these goals with a simple, rectilinear form, offering living space on the both entry and lower/basement levels. The stepped foundation allows for a walk-out basement level with light-filled living space on the down-hill side of the home. The traditional basement on the eastern, up-hill side houses mechanical equipment and a home gym. The house welcomes natural light throughout, captures views of the forest, and delivers entertainment space that connects indoor living space to outdoor deck and dining patio.
MODERN VISION. The clean building form and uncomplicated finishes pay homage to the modern architectural legacy on the outer Cape. Durable and economical fiber cement panels, fixed with aluminum channels, clad the primary form. Cedar clapboards provide a visual accent at the south-facing living room, which extends a single roof plane to cover the entry porch.
SMART USE OF SPACE. On the entry level, the “L”-shaped living, dining, and kitchen space connects to the exterior living, dining, and grilling spaces to effectively double the home’s summertime entertainment area. Placed at the western end of the entry level (where it can retain privacy but still claim expansive downhill views) is the master suite with a built-in study. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, a second full bathroom, and laundry. The flexibility of the space—crucial in a house with a modest footprint—emerges in one of the guest bedrooms, which doubles as home office by opening the barn-style double doors to connect it to the bright, airy open stair leading up to the entry level. Thoughtful design, generous ceiling heights and large windows transform the modest 1,100 sf* footprint into a well-lit, spacious home. *(total finished space is 1800 sf)
RENTAL INCOME. The property works for its owners by netting rental income when the owners are home in San Francisco. The house especially caters to vacationers bound for nearby Mayo Beach and includes an outdoor shower adjacent to the lower level entry door. In contrast to the bare bones cottages that are typically available on the Cape, this home offers prospective tenants a modern aesthetic, paired with luxurious and green features. Durable finishes inside and out will ensure longevity with the heavier use that comes with a rental property.
COMFORT YEAR-ROUND. The home is super-insulated and air-tight, with mechanical ventilation to provide continuous fresh air from the outside. High performance triple-paned windows complement the building enclosure and maximize passive solar gain while ensuring a warm, draft-free winter, even when sitting close to the glass. A properly sized air source heat pump offers efficient heating & cooling, and includes a carefully designed the duct distribution system to provide even comfort throughout the house. The super-insulated envelope allows us to significantly reduce the equipment capacity, duct size, and airflow quantities, while maintaining unparalleled thermal comfort.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. The building’s shell and mechanical systems play instrumental roles in the home’s exceptional performance. The building enclosure reduces the most significant energy glutton: heating. Continuous super-insulation, thorough air sealing, triple-pane windows, and passive solar gain work together to yield a miniscule heating load. All active energy consumers are extremely efficient: an air source heat pump for heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation (ERV), and high efficiency appliances. The result is a home that uses 70% less energy than a similar new home built to code requirements.
OVERALL. The home embodies the owners’ goals and values while comprehensively enabling thermal comfort, energy efficiency, a vacation respite, and supplementary income.
PROJECT TEAM
ZeroEnergy Design - Architect & Mechanical Designer
A.F. Hultin & Co. - Contractor
Pamet Valley Landscape Design - Landscape & Masonry
Lisa Finch - Original Artwork
European Architectural Supply - Windows
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

This unique and functional island gives a new meaning to the phrase “Kitchen is the heart of a home”. Here, kitchen island is the center of all attention and a conversation piece at every party.
Designed for a client who loves to entertain, this structure is an artistic interpretation of a kitchen island. This monolithic sculpture raises out of the white marble floor and glows in an open concept kitchen.
You wouldn’t know just by looking at it, but extensive engineering design was needed to ensure that it is structurally sound and produces the effect client desired. Plexiglass structure is clad in Polaris white quart slabs and light makes the entire sculpture glow.
Even edges of slabs were polished to ensure maximum light refraction with slightly beveled seams that create decorative pattern.
But this island isn’t just beautiful. It is also extremely practical. It is designed using two intercrossing parts creating two heights for different purposes. 36” high surface for prep work and 30” high surface for sit down dining. The height differences and location encourages use of the entire table top for preparations. Furthermore, storage cabinets are installed under part of this island closest to the working triangle.
Overhead energy efficient LED lighting was selected paying special attention to the lamp’s CRI to ensure proper color rendition of items below, especially important when working with meat.
Interior Design, Decorating & Project Management by Equilibrium Interior Design Inc
Photography by Craig Denis

This unique and functional kitchen gives a new meaning to the phrase “Kitchen is the heart of a home”. Here, kitchen is the center of all attention and a conversation piece at every party.
Black glass cabinet fronts used in the design offer ease of maintenance, and the kaleidoscope stone countertops and backsplash contrast the cabinetry and always look clean. Color was very important to this Client and this kitchen is definitely not lacking life.
Designed for a client who loves to entertain, the centerpiece is an artistic interpretation of a kitchen island. This monolithic sculpture raises out of the white marble floor and glows in this open concept kitchen.
But this island isn’t just beautiful. It is also extremely practical. It is designed using two intercrossing parts creating two heights for different purposes. 36” high surface for prep work and 30” high surface for sit down dining. The height differences and location encourages use of the entire table top for preparations. Furthermore, storage cabinets are installed under part of this island closest to the working triangle.
For a client who loves to cook, appliances were very important, and sub-zero and wolf appliances we used give them the best product available.
Overhead energy efficient LED lighting was selected paying special attention to the lamp’s CRI to ensure proper color rendition of items below, especially important when working with meat. Under-cabinet task lighting offers illumination where it is most needed on the countertops.
Interior Design, Decorating & Project Management by Equilibrium Interior Design Inc
Photography by Craig Denis
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Home design - contemporary home design idea in Austin
Home design - contemporary home design idea in Austin

This unique and functional kitchen gives a new meaning to the phrase “Kitchen is the heart of a home”. Here, kitchen is the center of all attention and a conversation piece at every party.
Black glass cabinet fronts used in the design offer ease of maintenance, and the kaleidoscope stone countertops and backsplash contrast the cabinetry and always look clean. Color was very important to this Client and this kitchen is definitely not lacking life.
Designed for a client who loves to entertain, the centerpiece is an artistic interpretation of a kitchen island. This monolithic sculpture raises out of the white marble floor and glows in this open concept kitchen.
But this island isn’t just beautiful. It is also extremely practical. It is designed using two intercrossing parts creating two heights for different purposes. 36” high surface for prep work and 30” high surface for sit down dining. The height differences and location encourages use of the entire table top for preparations. Furthermore, storage cabinets are installed under part of this island closest to the working triangle.
For a client who loves to cook, appliances were very important, and sub-zero and wolf appliances we used give them the best product available.
Overhead energy efficient LED lighting was selected paying special attention to the lamp’s CRI to ensure proper color rendition of items below, especially important when working with meat. Under-cabinet task lighting offers illumination where it is most needed on the countertops.
Interior Design, Decorating & Project Management by Equilibrium Interior Design Inc
Photography by Craig Denis

This lovely little modern farmhouse is located at the base of the foothills in one of Boulder’s most prized neighborhoods. Tucked onto a challenging narrow lot, this inviting and sustainably designed 2400 sf., 4 bedroom home lives much larger than its compact form. The open floor plan and vaulted ceilings of the Great room, kitchen and dining room lead to a beautiful covered back patio and lush, private back yard. These rooms are flooded with natural light and blend a warm Colorado material palette and heavy timber accents with a modern sensibility. A lyrical open-riser steel and wood stair floats above the baby grand in the center of the home and takes you to three bedrooms on the second floor. The Master has a covered balcony with exposed beamwork & warm Beetle-kill pine soffits, framing their million-dollar view of the Flatirons.
Its simple and familiar style is a modern twist on a classic farmhouse vernacular. The stone, Hardie board siding and standing seam metal roofing create a resilient and low-maintenance shell. The alley-loaded home has a solar-panel covered garage that was custom designed for the family’s active & athletic lifestyle (aka “lots of toys”). The front yard is a local food & water-wise Master-class, with beautiful rain-chains delivering roof run-off straight to the family garden.

Capturing the motion of these beautifully detailed fish, Artsaics tactfully hand cuts each individual tile with extreme delicacy, while paying close attention to color combinations. The outcome never falls short of remarkable.

The owner of this historic and landmarked town-home renovation in Hudson Square, originally built in 1826, hired Gallery Kitchen and Bath to fully gut-renovate this 3-unit row-home. The scope of work included a full-scale renovation of the owners unit, including the renovation of the kitchen, one 4-piece master ensuite bathroom, one 3-piece bathroom with a walk-in steam shower, and a beautiful powder room. Additional work in the owners unit also included flooring, electrical upgrade, major plumbing work, new HVAC system, restoration of a fireplace, installation of a fully integrated smart home system and landmarked approved windows.
CELLAR RENOVATION IN NYC LANDMARKED TOWN-HOME
Rounding out the owners unit we renovated the cellar, which was converted into an entertainment space and featured a custom glass curtain wall, along with a custom staircase with an exposed brick wall. During the demolition phase of the cellar, our team discovered 56 wine jugs filled with wine from the prohibition era, leading us to name this project the prohibition house. For the two tenant units, Gallery Kitchen and Bath undertook the renovation of 2 kitchens, 4 bathrooms, new hardwood flooring throughout, along with detailed carpentry work in the entire home.
WHY GALLERY KITCHEN AND BATH
After interviewing multiple contractors, our client decided on Gallery Kitchen and Bath primarily because of our turnkey design, selection, and build process. In a renovation of this magnitude it is crucial to have a centralized full service contractor under one roof to handle all of the aspects and simultaneous moving parts of the project. Decentralizing the entire process by having multiple unaffiliated vendors handle various parts of the process can easily become chaotic, time consuming, and costly.
Because Gallery Kitchen and Bath undertook the entire process, from the design of the entire space to the selection and procurement of all finishes and fixtures, down to the procurement of all permits and LPC filings, it made a seemingly chaotic project a’lot more manageable.
PHASE 1: DESIGN, SELECTION, PROCUREMENT
Our client wanted the renovation to incorporate a fully modern design into his Hudson Square town-house. Being that this is a landmarked property, the exterior facade had to be restored and kept with the original aesthetic, the interior of the home however was a whole different story.
In keeping up with the modern aesthetic, our designers went to work to design a custom kitchen that included fully custom flat panel base cabinets in a white high gloss finish and an absolute matte black appliance/pantry wall. The kitchen design also included a white quartz countertop and backsplash with a waterfall edge island. To bring warmth to the modern kitchen, our designers incorporated a rifted and quartered select oak wood floor in a herringbone pattern, and custom blended stain with matte polyurethane finish. For continuity, the wood floor was also extended throughout the entire owners unit.
In the ensuite bathroom we created a “wet area” which houses a standalone soaking tub as well as a beautiful rainfall shower, completely leveled with the rest of the floor in the bathroom. Some highlights within this space include a tiled square drain, large niche cutouts with a carrera marble accents. Once again, to bring warmth to this modern bathroom, our designers incorporated a floating rustic oak vanity and carrera marble mosaic floor tile.
Last on the list on the owners unit floor was the cellar, which our client wanted to utilize as an entertainment space for his friends and family. During the design phase, we incorporated an open concept layout, wedding the indoor and outdoor space with a custom glass curtain wall. The design also included custom walnut built-ins that serve as a custom wet bar and storage piece.
With the design approved and selections made our office liaisons moved to procure all of the material selections and finishes.
PHASE 2: DEMO
Because this home is almost two centuries old, we had to take extra precaution during the interior demolition phase of the project. One specific area that we had to pay special attention to was the existing brick. Over time the mortar in old brick homes deteriorates and turns into dust – for this reason it was extremely important that a thorough and ongoing inspection of the exteriors and interior walls took place during the demolition of the space.
After 14 30-yard debris containers and 56 wine filled jugs from the prohibition era later , the demolition of this historic Hudson Square town-home came to an end. If you are wondering whether we tried the wine? After notifying the owner we agreed to open one of the jugs and try them together – nothing but vinegar.
PHASE 3: BUILD
One of the challenges in a renovation project of this scope is nailing down the logistics and delivery of fixtures and finish material. Adding to this challenge was a narrow entry door that required us to use a boom truck in order to deliver some of the larger materials on site. To ensure a succinct time schedule, we boomed all of the materials through the 3rd floor for the entire project and worked our renovation work from top floor to cellar. This technique also insured that any unexpected water issues during the renovation process would not damage a finished floor.
With all roughing and framing complete, the Gallery KBNY team proceeded to execute on the design plan.
THE REVEAL
From what was once a dilapidated town-home with nothing but potential, to a glamorous and luxurious modern interior space – the prohibition house was complete. Ready to speak with us about your renovation project? Contact us to schedule your free consultation and let Gallery KBNY show you why our all-inclusive approach to your renovation is the smartest way to renovating in NYC.

About this Project:
The home remodeling included a kitchen renovation, second floor space reconfigurations, and first floor addition. The purpose was to expand the existing kitchen and create a casual atmosphere by eliminating the formal appearance and unify the kitchen and family room. The homeowners were looking for a traditional kitchen that could be used for dining, entertaining, doing homework while providing ample storage space and a workstation area for bill paying. Demolition was necessary of the existing kitchen and partial exterior of the back of the house and excavation for the addition. The scope of work included new painted kitchen cabinetry and dramatic Cambria stone countertops, new tigerwood exotic hardwood flooring throughout the first floor, new recessed, hanging & under cabinet lighting, and painting of the first floor. The wall paint ushers in a vibrant yet relaxing feeling to the home. Painting existing trim and moldings throughout the first floor refreshes & updates the home. The hardwood flooring flows from the front door to the back door of the first floor and adds a cozy warmth to the home. The finished result is a stunning, warm, spacious kitchen for family and friends to gather.
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Testmonial:
"I wanted to let you know once again how thrilled we are with the work J. Francis Company recently completed on our home. When we purchased the house we were not convinced that it could become our "home". However after all the work has now been completed we both easily refer to it as our "Home" and not just a house. Your entire team truly made the project - which is never easy - almost enjoyable (or at least as enjoyable a project can be while living without a kitchen!)! Not only was J. Francis extremely professional with respect to the actual construction (JK was absolutely fantastic!!) and the selection of finishes, but they also provided design ideas which we never envisioned. For example the concept of increasing the size of one of our son's bedrooms by taking space from our other son's bedroom was ingenious and in turn it created two equally sized bedrooms which are loved by each of our boys! All told, I would strongly recommend J. Francis to anyone looking for construction needs (in fact I have already made such a recommendation!)."
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Photography © Steven Dietz

There are a lot of different materials used in making a roof. In the past, roofs were made out of wood and shingles. Now, they are made out of a variety of different materials like steel and plastic. But, no matter what material your roof uses, it needs to be durable and waterproof. The new roof system that was developed by GM Systems Inc. combines different materials to make a sturdy and durable roof that is also very easy to install.
This new roof is designed to keep the elements away from your home. It will also protect you from the heat of the sun. This means that you won't have to worry about the roof causing you problems. You will be able to enjoy the comfort of your home while using a product that works great. This is something that you can't say for many other products. The roof that GM Systems Inc. created has been tested and approved by many experts in the industry. So, you can rest assured that you are using a quality product.
1. What is GM Systems Inc.?
GM Systems Inc. is a company that is dedicated to providing top-quality roofing systems. They provide quality roofing materials and services that exceed all expectations. They offer an extensive line of products that are durable and energy-efficient. In fact, the company was able to produce a great product because it invested heavily in research and development. The company invested thousands of dollars to create a unique product. It is because of this that the company can claim that it has the best product on the market.
2. Features of GM Systems Inc. Roof system
GM Systems Inc. Roof system is a new type of material that can protect the roof of your home. It is very versatile, and you can use it for any type of roof, including flat and curved roofs. If you need a new roof, GM Systems Inc. can help you to replace the old one. You can either repair the old roof or completely replace it with this new roof. The new roof is a great solution because it protects your home. It will keep the rain and wind out. It will also reduce your monthly bills. In addition, it helps you to reduce the chances of your home getting damaged by the weather. The new roof can help you to get a longer lifespan for your roof. You can also use the roof to save energy. It will help you to lower your utility bills.
3. Types of roofing system
Many companies make roofing systems. They provide different types of roofs. They can be categorized into three types: flat roofs, sloped roofs, and steel roofs.
Flat roofs: A flat roof has a smooth surface. This is because the roof is made of asphalt or tar. They are easy to maintain. They can last for a long time and they are usually affordable. They are usually found in houses.
Slope roofs: A sloping roof has a steep incline. They can be made of clay tiles, cement tiles, or a combination of materials. They can withstand heavy winds.
Steel roofs: Steel roofs are available in different sizes. The size is dependent on the amount of space you need to be covered. The larger the size, the more you pay for the roof. Steel roofs are also easy to repair. They are very simple to put together and take apart. They have an open structure and they don't require any kind of insulation. A steel roof doesn't require much maintenance either. The main issue with steel roofs is that they can get too hot in certain weather conditions.
4. How is it different from the conventional roofing system?
You can buy a steel roof for many reasons. It is easier to install than a conventional roof and it is also less expensive to install. It's a durable roof that lasts for years. It requires less maintenance than conventional roofs and is easy to repair.
5. GM Systems Inc. Roofing material
GM Systems Inc.. is used to protect building materials and it keeps the rain away. Steel roofs are made of metal and aluminum. They are lightweight and durable. They can withstand wind and rain. They don't rust. Steel roofs can be bought in many colors. They can also be designed according to your taste. Steel roofs are known to be one of the best roofing systems.
6. The installation process of the new roof system
The installation process of the new roof system is simple. It is the best way to ensure that your roof lasts for a long time. You should hire the best roof installation company to install the new roof system. Steel roofs are the best for you if you want to protect your house from the elements. They will also protect your house from moisture and snow. These roofs can last a lifetime. It is recommended to buy steel roofs because they can withstand extreme weather conditions.
7. What are the benefits of the new roof system from GM Systems Inc.?
The benefits of the new roof system from GM Systems Inc. include being able to install the new roof easily. You can just call them and ask for a quote. You will get a price estimate immediately. There is no need to pay for an installation person first. It's time-consuming, and you may have to wait around for them. You will not have to go through the hassle of having to hire a different contractor for the roof repair. If you are not sure about your options, then you can always call the company. They will provide you with the right information. It is also easy to find the new roof system. It is located in the roofing section.

Designed and realized by WL3 Designs, The Albero Respite is a paradigm of contemporary minimalist architecture, where serene simplicity meets functional elegance. Named after the Italian word for 'tree', the home pays homage to the solitary olive tree gracing its courtyard, symbolizing peace and resilience.
This single-story structure emerges from the landscape with clean lines and expansive glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor space and the natural world outside. White, the dominant hue, serves not just as a design choice but as a canvas for the play of light and shadow, changing with the sun’s whims.
WL3 Designs has meticulously crafted each element of The Albero Respite to embody the principles of sustainable design while providing a haven of tranquility.
The home's orientation and glazing are engineered to optimize natural light and promote passive heating and cooling, reducing the need for artificial climate control. It stands as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature without forgoing modern luxury and comfort.
Designing for the desert requires in-depth understanding of the extreme temperatures that range here.
From freezing temperatures in the winter to blistering hot ones in the summer, the region contains every extreme, and the homes that are built in it must also. Rains and wind, endless sunshine, these are all elements that we considered when designing for this region.
In addition to using modern strategies, we referred to ancient design concepts embraced by native people for generations, combining the two to create modern homes in this timeless, desert environment.

Super Traxx Sand Coating is a coating that can help your outdoor surfaces. It can give your driveway, sidewalk, patio, garage floor, and outdoor deck a facelift, that’s non-slip, looks great and lasts longer. This coating method provides an alternative to paying for new concrete or installation fees every couple of years. Super Traxx is an extremely low maintenance solution that will increase the lifespan of your outdoor flooring and amenities.
Super Traxx will increase the life of your outdoor surfaces, because it is a durable, and more importantly, weather resistant coating. This coating will be able to handle whatever mother nature throws its way. Super Traxx will decrease the likelihood of cracks and spalling in your concrete.
Our sand coating is a seamless solution that will fill fractures, expansion joints, and saw cuts in concrete. It is also chemical resistant and durable enough to withstand the application of salt or cleaning chemicals. Your outdoor flooring will stand up to heavy traffic for years to come!

Designed and realized by WL3 Designs, The Albero Respite is a paradigm of contemporary minimalist architecture, where serene simplicity meets functional elegance. Named after the Italian word for 'tree', the home pays homage to the solitary olive tree gracing its courtyard, symbolizing peace and resilience.
This single-story structure emerges from the landscape with clean lines and expansive glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor space and the natural world outside. White, the dominant hue, serves not just as a design choice but as a canvas for the play of light and shadow, changing with the sun’s whims.
WL3 Designs has meticulously crafted each element of The Albero Respite to embody the principles of sustainable design while providing a haven of tranquility.
The home's orientation and glazing are engineered to optimize natural light and promote passive heating and cooling, reducing the need for artificial climate control. It stands as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature without forgoing modern luxury and comfort.
Designing for the desert requires in-depth understanding of the extreme temperatures that range here.
From freezing temperatures in the winter to blistering hot ones in the summer, the region contains every extreme, and the homes that are built in it must also. Rains and wind, endless sunshine, these are all elements that we considered when designing for this region.
In addition to using modern strategies, we referred to ancient design concepts embraced by native people for generations, combining the two to create modern homes in this timeless, desert environment.

Designed and realized by WL3 Designs, The Albero Respite is a paradigm of contemporary minimalist architecture, where serene simplicity meets functional elegance. Named after the Italian word for 'tree', the home pays homage to the solitary olive tree gracing its courtyard, symbolizing peace and resilience.
This single-story structure emerges from the landscape with clean lines and expansive glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor space and the natural world outside. White, the dominant hue, serves not just as a design choice but as a canvas for the play of light and shadow, changing with the sun’s whims.
WL3 Designs has meticulously crafted each element of The Albero Respite to embody the principles of sustainable design while providing a haven of tranquility.
The home's orientation and glazing are engineered to optimize natural light and promote passive heating and cooling, reducing the need for artificial climate control. It stands as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature without forgoing modern luxury and comfort.
Designing for the desert requires in-depth understanding of the extreme temperatures that range here.
From freezing temperatures in the winter to blistering hot ones in the summer, the region contains every extreme, and the homes that are built in it must also. Rains and wind, endless sunshine, these are all elements that we considered when designing for this region.
In addition to using modern strategies, we referred to ancient design concepts embraced by native people for generations, combining the two to create modern homes in this timeless, desert environment.

Designed and realized by WL3 Designs, The Albero Respite is a paradigm of contemporary minimalist architecture, where serene simplicity meets functional elegance. Named after the Italian word for 'tree', the home pays homage to the solitary olive tree gracing its courtyard, symbolizing peace and resilience.
This single-story structure emerges from the landscape with clean lines and expansive glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor space and the natural world outside. White, the dominant hue, serves not just as a design choice but as a canvas for the play of light and shadow, changing with the sun’s whims.
WL3 Designs has meticulously crafted each element of The Albero Respite to embody the principles of sustainable design while providing a haven of tranquility.
The home's orientation and glazing are engineered to optimize natural light and promote passive heating and cooling, reducing the need for artificial climate control. It stands as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature without forgoing modern luxury and comfort.
Designing for the desert requires in-depth understanding of the extreme temperatures that range here.
From freezing temperatures in the winter to blistering hot ones in the summer, the region contains every extreme, and the homes that are built in it must also. Rains and wind, endless sunshine, these are all elements that we considered when designing for this region.
In addition to using modern strategies, we referred to ancient design concepts embraced by native people for generations, combining the two to create modern homes in this timeless, desert environment.

Designed and realized by WL3 Designs, The Albero Respite is a paradigm of contemporary minimalist architecture, where serene simplicity meets functional elegance. Named after the Italian word for 'tree', the home pays homage to the solitary olive tree gracing its courtyard, symbolizing peace and resilience.
This single-story structure emerges from the landscape with clean lines and expansive glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor space and the natural world outside. White, the dominant hue, serves not just as a design choice but as a canvas for the play of light and shadow, changing with the sun’s whims.
WL3 Designs has meticulously crafted each element of The Albero Respite to embody the principles of sustainable design while providing a haven of tranquility.
The home's orientation and glazing are engineered to optimize natural light and promote passive heating and cooling, reducing the need for artificial climate control. It stands as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature without forgoing modern luxury and comfort.
Designing for the desert requires in-depth understanding of the extreme temperatures that range here.
From freezing temperatures in the winter to blistering hot ones in the summer, the region contains every extreme, and the homes that are built in it must also. Rains and wind, endless sunshine, these are all elements that we considered when designing for this region.
In addition to using modern strategies, we referred to ancient design concepts embraced by native people for generations, combining the two to create modern homes in this timeless, desert environment.

This modern green home offers both a vacation destination on Cape Cod near local family members and an opportunity for rental income.
FAMILY ROOTS. A West Coast couple living in the San Francisco Bay Area sought a permanent East Coast vacation home near family members living on Cape Cod. As academic professionals focused on sustainability, they sought a green, energy efficient home that was well-aligned with their values. With no green homes available for sale on Cape Cod, they decided to purchase land near their family and build their own.
SLOPED SITE. Comprised of a 3/4 acre lot nestled in the pines, the steeply sloping terrain called for a plan that embraced and took advantage of the slope. Of equal priority was optimizing solar exposure, preserving privacy from abutters, and creating outdoor living space. The design accomplished these goals with a simple, rectilinear form, offering living space on the both entry and lower/basement levels. The stepped foundation allows for a walk-out basement level with light-filled living space on the down-hill side of the home. The traditional basement on the eastern, up-hill side houses mechanical equipment and a home gym. The house welcomes natural light throughout, captures views of the forest, and delivers entertainment space that connects indoor living space to outdoor deck and dining patio.
MODERN VISION. The clean building form and uncomplicated finishes pay homage to the modern architectural legacy on the outer Cape. Durable and economical fiber cement panels, fixed with aluminum channels, clad the primary form. Cedar clapboards provide a visual accent at the south-facing living room, which extends a single roof plane to cover the entry porch.
SMART USE OF SPACE. On the entry level, the “L”-shaped living, dining, and kitchen space connects to the exterior living, dining, and grilling spaces to effectively double the home’s summertime entertainment area. Placed at the western end of the entry level (where it can retain privacy but still claim expansive downhill views) is the master suite with a built-in study. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, a second full bathroom, and laundry. The flexibility of the space—crucial in a house with a modest footprint—emerges in one of the guest bedrooms, which doubles as home office by opening the barn-style double doors to connect it to the bright, airy open stair leading up to the entry level. Thoughtful design, generous ceiling heights and large windows transform the modest 1,100 sf* footprint into a well-lit, spacious home. *(total finished space is 1800 sf)
RENTAL INCOME. The property works for its owners by netting rental income when the owners are home in San Francisco. The house especially caters to vacationers bound for nearby Mayo Beach and includes an outdoor shower adjacent to the lower level entry door. In contrast to the bare bones cottages that are typically available on the Cape, this home offers prospective tenants a modern aesthetic, paired with luxurious and green features. Durable finishes inside and out will ensure longevity with the heavier use that comes with a rental property.
COMFORT YEAR-ROUND. The home is super-insulated and air-tight, with mechanical ventilation to provide continuous fresh air from the outside. High performance triple-paned windows complement the building enclosure and maximize passive solar gain while ensuring a warm, draft-free winter, even when sitting close to the glass. A properly sized air source heat pump offers efficient heating & cooling, and includes a carefully designed the duct distribution system to provide even comfort throughout the house. The super-insulated envelope allows us to significantly reduce the equipment capacity, duct size, and airflow quantities, while maintaining unparalleled thermal comfort.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. The building’s shell and mechanical systems play instrumental roles in the home’s exceptional performance. The building enclosure reduces the most significant energy glutton: heating. Continuous super-insulation, thorough air sealing, triple-pane windows, and passive solar gain work together to yield a miniscule heating load. All active energy consumers are extremely efficient: an air source heat pump for heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation (ERV), and high efficiency appliances. The result is a home that uses 70% less energy than a similar new home built to code requirements.
OVERALL. The home embodies the owners’ goals and values while comprehensively enabling thermal comfort, energy efficiency, a vacation respite, and supplementary income.
PROJECT TEAM
ZeroEnergy Design - Architect & Mechanical Designer
A.F. Hultin & Co. - Contractor
Pamet Valley Landscape Design - Landscape & Masonry
Lisa Finch - Original Artwork
European Architectural Supply - Windows
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

GAO Zhiqiang: Exploring the infinite possibilities beyond boundaries - Space Emotion Design Series - Vniau Office
The essence of space design is to pay attention to people’s emotional needs, especially in office designs.
Vniau office is designed by GAO Zhiqiang, a space emotion designer. He created an extremely comfortable and inclusive office space by modern design tech-niques, combined with technology, history and humanities.
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Infinite possibilities beyond boundaries
A humanistic caring, warm and emotional design work, under the continuous changes of social forms, evolves into a space in accordance with the develop-ment of the current era, which is the most solid response from the designer to the space.
This open space makes you feel like entering into a movie scene. Large areas of black and white contrast, and smooth lines create a powerful aura. However, soft lights bring back a romantic atmosphere. The space is highlighted by vir-tuality and reality.
The development of modern technology diversified people’s cognition and iden-tification of space dimension. The designer tries to break the inherent bound-ary consciousness among technology, humanities and nature by comfortable and efficient spatial perception.
Wandering between virtual and real, light and shadow, the space presents a fu-ture sense through symbols. It shows a bold, free, open, lush, and new office format.
"Compared with technology, we pay more attention to people's emotions and feelings. We have always been advocating using the most common materials to create different spaces, and the key is depended on design." Said designer GAO Zhiqiang.
Therefore, when it came to the selection of materials, pureness presents in-finity, simplicity creates richness. Bright green brings cheerfulness, and the exposed ceiling and cloud-like chandeliers create a natural and agile visual perception. The combination of dynamic and stillness embodies the concentra-tion of the designer.
As the previous office was in Chinese style with redwood furniture, in order to have good effect of the overall space, the designer discussed with the own-er repeatedly, strive to change into a modern style, which matches more with their products, clients, competitors, brand culture and temperament of the of-fice, younger staff, etc., in the end, this design shows up.
This is a ring-shaped office space with same walls and same core tubes, which make people easily disoriented. By the principle of 5 elements - metal, wood, water, fire and earth, the designer placed the reception and exhibition room in the middle, and painted in yellow, corresponding to central earth.
According to this principle, the R & D department on the east side is decorat-ed in green, corresponding to wood, also, the market and finance department on the south side is orange, corresponding to fire. Service department on the west is white color representing metal, CEO and QC office on the north side is given black color, representing water. 5 directions are painted in 5 colors, which make people clearly distinguish departments and directions.
The building wall of the void area has a huge sloped beam, which causes poor visual experience. To solve this problem, the designer creates a magnificent X-shaped style by making use of the original beam structure. Its perforated sides and the luminous aluminum plates are very sci-fi, showing a similar vision of X-Men headquarters.
The interaction, communication and intersection among people are the key points of designing moving lines. Their optimization brings closer collaboration among departments,shorten the distance that people have to walk in the space, such as in conference rooms, negotiation rooms, recreation area, water bar, reception area.
Reasonable moving lines make discussion and communication between people, de-partments, and customers more efficient. At the same time, different spaces create different atmospheres and emotions, relax, or serious, or leisurable, etc., so as to meet needs of different moments.
In addition, the designer GAO Zhiqiang said, "We want to create a feeling of flowing clouds. Lights and curves create moving lines, and give a sense of freedom."
To remove the shackles of traditional office designs, and give a space infi-nite vitality is not just a change in form, it is more about 'people' them-selves. Here, everyone has a very large degree of freedom, and they can feel the infinite possibilities of future. Initiative and creativity are stimulated at the same time. Once people create the environment, areas interact with each other, and the power of design emerges.
Soft curve is a visual expression of tolerance and infinite possibilities. The spatial layout breaks isolation and shortens the distance of human hearts. High efficiency while no boundaries, and everywhere has space for independent thinking and solitude. The space respects each individual and can also unit as a whole.
Gaudi, the most famous Spanish architect, once said that straight lines belong to human, and curves belong to the God. It is probably that the curves give birth to too many wonderful changes. In this space, the curves are formed smoothly, either on the ground or ceiling, or a room, a partition.
"Spatial emotion design" advocates bringing human attributes to spatial func-tions. By designing and shaping the space, people are able to work in the best state of physiological and psychological emotions. Therefore, AFFD is trying their best to create comfortable working environments for employees, to ensure efficient work, as well as physical and mental health of staff.

Get modern style home design idea here. Everyone wanna get clean, cool, minimalist look in your home.However most of them are feeling financial strains. Actually there are too many choices available to settle for anything less than fantastic.We share some easy tips here to make a modern style home. These ideas are extremely easy to achieve.Keep reading!
#1 Modern lines furniture & embrace minimalism.
The modern minimalist movement has come a long way from stark, cold interiors with the look, become first choice for home decor. Simple style furniture fits perfectly in a modern organic room. Look for simple shapes and sleek silhouettes with interesting angles.
By adopting this decorating style,your finances can be focused on fewer items cause it having less decor.
Add some modern element with low cost metal furniture legs.Such as try to DIY your TV stand with custom metal table legs, or find modern hairpin legs for coffee table.
#2 Textured furniture
Mixing patterns and textures in your interior design and decorating efforts can add style and interest. Comfortable material help keep your home furniture modern look.
Whether you have a wooden coffee table with hairpin legs, or headboard that has a rustic texture, or a chair that has a soft, rough, or patterned texture,or metal table legs with casters, it can add a whole new level of interest to the room. Texture can be a great way to complement a bold or subdued pattern that makes up the rooms point of interest.
#3 Color
Except for the textures on the furniture and the interesting mix of humble materials, the colors on the walls become popular suddenly in home interior.
We know Pantone additionally released the 9 colors that will trend Fall 2018. If you want to DIY your home or furniture design,except the hairpin table legs we recommend before, check our the 9 fall colors to incorporate in your home decor.
# 4 Plants
We are losing more and more “green” when our building is surrounded by skyscrapers.Add some green color and vitality via plants in your home interior processing.
Plants just have a way of making any space feel bright, lively, and gorgeous. This trailing plant grows extremely fast in a variety of growing conditions. Their versatility makes them ideal for hanging planters in low light homes. Adding some green to your décor has never been easier!Enjoy!
Follow above tips to add some new look in your home interior and furniture design.Also, please pay attention to your budget, double check your simple furniture list. Quit punishing your budget ans start investing in better quality furniture. Welcome to share your simple, modern style home design and home decor ideas, and your DIY project with hairpin legs!

Always pay attention to the details of the exterior. It really adds personality!
Mid-sized craftsman brown two-story concrete fiberboard exterior home idea
Mid-sized craftsman brown two-story concrete fiberboard exterior home idea
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