Our intent was to create a contemporary beach house that would combine the simplicity of geometrical spaces and volumes with warm materials. This family weekend house is entered at the upper street level through a translucent glass gate that is set between the simple geometric volumes of the house and adjacent monumental gate pier, giving the feeling of penetrating a solid volume of architecture to arrive at your destination. This leads down to the entry courtyard space, defined by the bold architecture on three sides, dense landscape on the other side and a reflecting pool to contrast the manmade with the natural. The solid entry facade, creating intrigue and providing privacy, contrasts with the glass oceanside facades, providing view and transparency. The house is organized around a dramatic skylit central hall with a monumental stair made of wood treads that seem to float on brushed stainless steel supports—the stair is both art/sculpture and architecture. Materials in muted and warm colors—beige plaster walls, floors in random ashlar limestone at the lower seaside level, wire-brushed oak floors at the second floor and stair, and travertine baths—maintain a united color scheme that is punctuated by colorful fabrics and the owner’s collection of tribal art and modern furnishings. Interior design by Atelier AM Landscape architecture by Mark Beall

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

While the beauty of this clients’ kitchen lies in its individuality, some key features run through various successful kitchen designs. Every essential feature satisfied both functional and ascetically pleasing needs of the client. Starting from a broken up home with its defined kitchen, dining room, informal living room and home bar, we reinvented the first floor into a flexible living space. This Transitional kitchen has an open-plan, featuring distinct zones for cooking, eating and lounging, an Island unit that penetrates into the dinning and bar zone creating a subtle boundary in the entire room. The principles of maximizing light and space combined with creating a generous amount of storage space and a balance of transparent, opaque and reflective materials guided the design of the new space. Granite countertops meeting marble tile backsplash wrapping around picture windows helped to bounce lights around the room. The off white cabinets with Burnt Sienna glazing, gave a warm contrast throughout the entire room, the show stopping glass large pendant lights over the island captured modern essence. Photography by Cindi with an eye

While the beauty of this clients’ kitchen lies in its individuality, some key features run through various successful kitchen designs. Every essential feature satisfied both functional and ascetically pleasing needs of the client. Starting from a broken up home with its defined kitchen, dining room, informal living room and home bar, we reinvented the first floor into a flexible living space. This Transitional kitchen has an open-plan, featuring distinct zones for cooking, eating and lounging, an Island unit that penetrates into the dinning and bar zone creating a subtle boundary in the entire room. The principles of maximizing light and space combined with creating a generous amount of storage space and a balance of transparent, opaque and reflective materials guided the design of the new space. Granite countertops meeting marble tile backsplash wrapping around picture windows helped to bounce lights around the room. The off white cabinets with Burnt Sienna glazing, gave a warm contrast throughout the entire room, the show stopping glass large pendant lights over the island captured modern essence. Photography by Cindi with an eye

Our intent was to create a contemporary beach house that would combine the simplicity of geometrical spaces and volumes with warm materials. This family weekend house is entered at the upper street level through a translucent glass gate that is set between the simple geometric volumes of the house and adjacent monumental gate pier, giving the feeling of penetrating a solid volume of architecture to arrive at your destination. This leads down to the entry courtyard space, defined by the bold architecture on three sides, dense landscape on the other side and a reflecting pool to contrast the manmade with the natural. The solid entry facade, creating intrigue and providing privacy, contrasts with the glass oceanside facades, providing view and transparency. The house is organized around a dramatic skylit central hall with a monumental stair made of wood treads that seem to float on brushed stainless steel supports—the stair is both art/sculpture and architecture. Materials in muted and warm colors—beige plaster walls, floors in random ashlar limestone at the lower seaside level, wire-brushed oak floors at the second floor and stair, and travertine baths—maintain a united color scheme that is punctuated by colorful fabrics and the owner’s collection of tribal art and modern furnishings. Interior design by Atelier AM Landscape architecture by Mark Beall

Our intent was to create a contemporary beach house that would combine the simplicity of geometrical spaces and volumes with warm materials. This family weekend house is entered at the upper street level through a translucent glass gate that is set between the simple geometric volumes of the house and adjacent monumental gate pier, giving the feeling of penetrating a solid volume of architecture to arrive at your destination. This leads down to the entry courtyard space, defined by the bold architecture on three sides, dense landscape on the other side and a reflecting pool to contrast the manmade with the natural. The solid entry facade, creating intrigue and providing privacy, contrasts with the glass oceanside facades, providing view and transparency. The house is organized around a dramatic skylit central hall with a monumental stair made of wood treads that seem to float on brushed stainless steel supports—the stair is both art/sculpture and architecture. Materials in muted and warm colors—beige plaster walls, floors in random ashlar limestone at the lower seaside level, wire-brushed oak floors at the second floor and stair, and travertine baths—maintain a united color scheme that is punctuated by colorful fabrics and the owner’s collection of tribal art and modern furnishings. Interior design by Atelier AM Landscape architecture by Mark Beall

This project was an exercise in minimalism — how it can be embraced and incorporated at multiple levels. Typical of San Franciscan Victorians, the dark interior of this home was segregated and circulation spaces were narrow and dark. The stairs to the upper level was an afterthought and tucked away. By removing the walls and rebuilding the stairs, we shifted the focus of this home’s interior and made the stairs the focal point. This project pays homage to the stairs, a critical element in the function and tone the home sets. As a transitional element, it carries the user from level to level, function to function, and mindset to mindset. The goal of this remodel was to invite the user upstairs and offer a more integrated transition to the upper level while at the same time using it to create a shaft of light into the inner recesses of the living space below. As one ascends the stairs, the floor gradually disappears revealing a naked structural spine as the stairs reaches the upper level. The dormer addition offered ample headspace and invites columns of light to penetrate below. The cantilevered floor and shadow play this offers, dynamically marks its imprint on both levels. Ancillary and storage spaces tucked away neatly and delicately – reminding us that expression should not be at the expense of function. Delicate and clean food preparation areas — now integrated with the rest of the home — invite us to celebrate this expression of unity.

Our intent was to create a contemporary beach house that would combine the simplicity of geometrical spaces and volumes with warm materials. This family weekend house is entered at the upper street level through a translucent glass gate that is set between the simple geometric volumes of the house and adjacent monumental gate pier, giving the feeling of penetrating a solid volume of architecture to arrive at your destination. This leads down to the entry courtyard space, defined by the bold architecture on three sides, dense landscape on the other side and a reflecting pool to contrast the manmade with the natural. The solid entry facade, creating intrigue and providing privacy, contrasts with the glass oceanside facades, providing view and transparency. The house is organized around a dramatic skylit central hall with a monumental stair made of wood treads that seem to float on brushed stainless steel supports—the stair is both art/sculpture and architecture. Materials in muted and warm colors—beige plaster walls, floors in random ashlar limestone at the lower seaside level, wire-brushed oak floors at the second floor and stair, and travertine baths—maintain a united color scheme that is punctuated by colorful fabrics and the owner’s collection of tribal art and modern furnishings. Interior design by Atelier AM Landscape architecture by Mark Beall

While the beauty of this homeowner's kitchen lies in its individuality, some key features run through various successful kitchen designs. Every essential feature satisfied both functional and ascetically pleasing needs of the homeowenr. Starting from a broken up areas with its defined kitchen, dining room, informal living room and home bar, we reinvented the first floor into a flexible living space. This Transitional kitchen has an open-plan, featuring distinct zones for cooking, eating and lounging, an Island unit that penetrates into the dinning and bar zone creating a subtle boundary in the entire room. The principles of maximizing light and space combined with creating a generous amount of storage space and a balance of transparent, opaque and reflective materials guided the design of the new space. Granite countertops meeting marble tile backsplash wrapping around picture windows helped to bounce lights around the room. The off white cabinets with Burnt Sienna glazing, gave a warm contrast throughout the entire room, the show stopping glass large pendant lights over the island captured modern essence. Photography by Cindi with an eye

We were hired to finish the basement of our clients cottage in Haliburton. The house is a woodsy craftsman style. Basements can be dark so we used pickled pine to brighten up this 3000 sf space which allowed us to remain consistent with the vibe of the overall cottage. We delineated the large open space in to four functions - a Family Room (with projector screen TV viewing above the fireplace and a reading niche); a Game Room with access to large doors open to the lake; a Guest Bedroom with sitting nook; and an Exercise Room. Glass was used in the french and barn doors to allow light to penetrate each space. Shelving units were used to provide some visual separation between the Family Room and Game Room. The fireplace referenced the upstairs fireplace with added inspiration from a photo our clients saw and loved. We provided all construction docs and furnishings will installed soon.

We were hired to finish the basement of our clients cottage in Haliburton. The house is a woodsy craftsman style. Basements can be dark so we used pickled pine to brighten up this 3000 sf space which allowed us to remain consistent with the vibe of the overall cottage. We delineated the large open space in to four functions - a Family Room (with projector screen TV viewing above the fireplace and a reading niche); a Game Room with access to large doors open to the lake; a Guest Bedroom with sitting nook; and an Exercise Room. Glass was used in the french and barn doors to allow light to penetrate each space. Shelving units were used to provide some visual separation between the Family Room and Game Room. The fireplace referenced the upstairs fireplace with added inspiration from a photo our clients saw and loved. We provided all construction docs and furnishings will installed soon.

The minimal windows Guillotine Windows installed to this new build property offers high levels of thermal insulations, solar protection and transparency. Glass balustrades were used on the staircase as a protection batter while allowing light to penetrate further into the building.

The owners of this San Francisco three-story hillside residence hoped for a brighter outlook for their MCM home. The original enclosed interior staircase prevented light from penetrating the adjacent rooms. A redesigned open steel staircase with floating treads now allows light from above to filter down through all levels. The primary bedroom located at the rear facing a hillside was expanded with large sliding doors that open out to a new deck, creating a relaxing private retreat for the parents while flooding the bedroom with natural light. San Francisco required the original look of the front facade to be maintained for historical purposes, and the back of the expanded primary closet cabinetry that now faces outward was painted black in order to maintain the appearance of the original window design. The family of four now enjoys much brighter days and a more open feel in their reconfigured house, including a new family room on the lower level, which they can enjoy together. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Chuang-Ming Liu, Ethan Taylor, and Yegvenia Torres-Zavala Contractor: A.L. Martin Construction Inc. Structural Engineer: ZFA Structural Engineers Photography: ©2017 Scott Chernis Completion Year: 2017

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

Our intent was to create a contemporary beach house that would combine the simplicity of geometrical spaces and volumes with warm materials. This family weekend house is entered at the upper street level through a translucent glass gate that is set between the simple geometric volumes of the house and adjacent monumental gate pier, giving the feeling of penetrating a solid volume of architecture to arrive at your destination. This leads down to the entry courtyard space, defined by the bold architecture on three sides, dense landscape on the other side and a reflecting pool to contrast the manmade with the natural. The solid entry facade, creating intrigue and providing privacy, contrasts with the glass oceanside facades, providing view and transparency. The house is organized around a dramatic skylit central hall with a monumental stair made of wood treads that seem to float on brushed stainless steel supports—the stair is both art/sculpture and architecture. Materials in muted and warm colors—beige plaster walls, floors in random ashlar limestone at the lower seaside level, wire-brushed oak floors at the second floor and stair, and travertine baths—maintain a united color scheme that is punctuated by colorful fabrics and the owner’s collection of tribal art and modern furnishings. Interior design by Atelier AM Landscape architecture by Mark Beall

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

This prefabricated 1,800 square foot Certified Passive House is designed and built by The Artisans Group, located in the rugged central highlands of Shaw Island, in the San Juan Islands. It is the first Certified Passive House in the San Juans, and the fourth in Washington State. The home was built for $330 per square foot, while construction costs for residential projects in the San Juan market often exceed $600 per square foot. Passive House measures did not increase this projects’ cost of construction. The clients are retired teachers, and desired a low-maintenance, cost-effective, energy-efficient house in which they could age in place; a restful shelter from clutter, stress and over-stimulation. The circular floor plan centers on the prefabricated pod. Radiating from the pod, cabinetry and a minimum of walls defines functions, with a series of sliding and concealable doors providing flexible privacy to the peripheral spaces. The interior palette consists of wind fallen light maple floors, locally made FSC certified cabinets, stainless steel hardware and neutral tiles in black, gray and white. The exterior materials are painted concrete fiberboard lap siding, Ipe wood slats and galvanized metal. The home sits in stunning contrast to its natural environment with no formal landscaping. Photo Credit: Art Gray

We were hired to finish the basement of our clients cottage in Haliburton. The house is a woodsy craftsman style. Basements can be dark so we used pickled pine to brighten up this 3000 sf space which allowed us to remain consistent with the vibe of the overall cottage. We delineated the large open space in to four functions - a Family Room (with projector screen TV viewing above the fireplace and a reading niche); a Game Room with access to large doors open to the lake; a Guest Bedroom with sitting nook; and an Exercise Room. Glass was used in the french and barn doors to allow light to penetrate each space. Shelving units were used to provide some visual separation between the Family Room and Game Room. The fireplace referenced the upstairs fireplace with added inspiration from a photo our clients saw and loved. We provided all construction docs and furnishings will installed soon.

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.