Search results for "People highlighted" in Home Design Ideas

Party Palace - Custom Ranch on Acreage in Ridgefield Washington by Cascade West Development Inc.
The peaceful parental oasis that was well deserved for this hardworking household consists of many luxurious details, some obvious and some not so much. First a little extra insulation in the walls, in the efforts of sound-dampening, silence goes a long way in the search for serenity. A personal fireplace with remote control makes sleeping in on chilly winter weekends a dream come true. Last, but certainly not least is the Master Bath. A stone surround enclave with an elevated soaker tub, bay window and hidden flat-screen tv are the centerpiece here. The enclave is flanked by double vanities, each with separate countertops and storage (marble and custom milled respectively) so daily routines are a breeze. The other highlights here include a full tile surround walk-in shower with separate wall-mounted shower heads and a central rainfall faucet. Lastly an 8 person sauna can be found just off the master bath, with a jacuzzi just outside. These elements together make a day relaxing at home almost indiscernible from a day at the spa.
Cascade West Facebook: https://goo.gl/MCD2U1
Cascade West Website: https://goo.gl/XHm7Un
These photos, like many of ours, were taken by the good people of ExposioHDR - Portland, Or
Exposio Facebook: https://goo.gl/SpSvyo
Exposio Website: https://goo.gl/Cbm8Ya

Built in the early 1950s, this small urban townhouse is located in North Old Town Alexandria in an area currently undergoing major redevelopment. The neighborhood is popular with, and affordable for, young people and families, and very convenient to Washington, DC.
In its heyday, the townhouse touted a stately brick exterior, plaster walls, tongue and groove wood flooring and beautiful wooden staircase. Sixty years later, however, the homeowners were faced with crumbling masonry, sagging floors, a double layer of wallpaper over the plaster walls, a crumbling staircase, a dysfunctional kitchen and small, dark second floor rooms. Additionally, the basement had a low ceiling, moldy and cinder block walls, no plumbing and a large boiler taking up most of the space.
The homeowners’ goal was to restore the exterior’s historic look while creating an interior up-to-date for the 21st Century. To turn their vision into reality, they turned to Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes.
Design Solutions
To maintain the townhome’s historic exterior, the Michael Nash team carefully removed, salvaged, restored and reused existing brick masonry. Matching fascia boards and windows were combined with existing windows to complete the exterior renovation.
All interior walls were gutted and reframed. New electrical work, new insulation and new drywall were installed. Much of the home’s original trim was salvaged and reused, as was a piece of art glass, all to keep a bit of the past in the renovation.
The sagging subfloors were fixed, new hard wood floors were installed and a new staircase and railing were designed in a style similar to the original.
The solid wall between the kitchen and the dining room was removed, plumbing was relocated for a new sink location and the kitchen got expanded with an island into the dining room. Closet and plumbing stacks were relocated to allow a new space for fridge. Stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and custom cabinetry highlight the new modern kitchen.
The plan called for redesigning the three bedrooms on the second floor to allow a larger bathroom, walk-in closet and wider hallways. In addition to new roofing, a large skylight was installed to allow natural light into the bathroom and the upper hallway.
The basement was totally revamped. New plumbing was put in place for a full bathroom, laundry room and a den. New e-grass window was installed in the basement to bring this basement up to current building codes.
This homeowners love the neighborhood and now their home gives them the opportunity to stay in the same location.

For this Brooklyn condo renovation, Gallery Kitchen and Bath updated the entire kitchen and both bathrooms, as well as painted and laid out new flooring throughout the entire apartment. The owners wanted to unite the seeming medley of the existing space into a cohesive design more representative of their own style. With its ultra-high ceilings and exposed joints and beams, the space already lent itself to the farmhouse look. The end result is a modernized, eclectic farmhouse style that we keenly carried throughout the home.
MORE DETAILS
Compelling textures and color combos reign supreme. The kitchen features semi-custom Shaker-style stone gray cabinets, a white subway tile backsplash running all the way up the wall, and white quartz countertops. We built the island in part to create a pleasing yet efficient flow from the kitchen into the living and dining areas as the space was opened up. We also painted the plumbing stack white to not make it stand out.
We also redesigned the bathrooms, giving each a unique treatment. In the master bath, we took a Victorian-goes-modern approach with coral walls, champagne fixtures, and a clawfoot tub. In the guest bathroom, we stuck to a transitional style that approaches modern without becoming contemporary, pairing herringbone marble floor tiles with a mix of subway and penny tiles on the walls and in the shower. Both maintain elements, such as tiles, fixtures, and colors, that coordinate with the overall eclectic farmhouse look.
HOW WE COLLABORATE
Collaboration with our clients to their desired degree is one of our core pillars. In this condo renovation, the clients wanted central air and were initially considering a true central air system. We advised against it, as not only would it take away from the unique beauty of unusually tall ceilings by adding unsightly ductwork, but it would also significantly detract from the farmhouse look. Instead, we suggested a mini-split system. Our recommended units were both cost-effective and much more complementary to the comprehensive theme. Of course, we ultimately always honor the clients’ choices but it’s just as important to us that we make sure to provide all the necessary information so our clients can make educated decisions that are best for their needs.
SPACE PLANNING
Another key element of the renovation process is space planning. From this perspective, we consider the placement and positioning of objects with regard to the overall flow of space. The building where this renovation took place is U-shaped at one end, which happens to be where this particular apartment is located. Uniquely-shaped spaces naturally require more concentration than those built in the standard rectangular shape. Questions we consider include: Where will people really spend time in this space? What will the flow of foot traffic be? Is there easy access to the kitchen island? Does it flow well into the hallways? Does the island protrude into anything? Working in New York, with its variety of homes and architectural styles, has greatly developed our experience with standard spaces and unconventional ones alike.
SOME HIGHLIGHTS
- Ultra-tall ceilings, allowing for stacked cabinets in the kitchen, as well as long pendant light fixtures and more chandeliers than usual throughout the home
- Completely refurbished cast iron clawfoot tub in one bathroom, with a 270-degree shower curtain around the tub
- Vibrant color choices, including an all-blue bedroom in various shades
- Treated exposed brick walls
Fun Fact: A client once showed us inspiration photos that they sourced online of this exact project, having no idea it was one of ours.
Thinking about renovating your condo? Contact us today to find out how you can benefit from our expertise in remodeling New York City condos. We are a design-and-build firm with a full-scale approach that handles every single aspect of your condo renovation from start to finish.
Find the right local pro for your project

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture
Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset.
The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu .
Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home.
The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south.
Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape.
The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature.
Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design.
Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view.
Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward.
Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: ZFA
Contractor: Maison D’Artiste
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023

Built in the early 1950s, this small urban townhouse is located in North Old Town Alexandria in an area currently undergoing major redevelopment. The neighborhood is popular with, and affordable for, young people and families, and very convenient to Washington, DC.
In its heyday, the townhouse touted a stately brick exterior, plaster walls, tongue and groove wood flooring and beautiful wooden staircase. Sixty years later, however, the homeowners were faced with crumbling masonry, sagging floors, a double layer of wallpaper over the plaster walls, a crumbling staircase, a dysfunctional kitchen and small, dark second floor rooms. Additionally, the basement had a low ceiling, moldy and cinder block walls, no plumbing and a large boiler taking up most of the space.
The homeowners’ goal was to restore the exterior’s historic look while creating an interior up-to-date for the 21st Century. To turn their vision into reality, they turned to Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes.
Design Solutions
To maintain the townhome’s historic exterior, the Michael Nash team carefully removed, salvaged, restored and reused existing brick masonry. Matching fascia boards and windows were combined with existing windows to complete the exterior renovation.
All interior walls were gutted and reframed. New electrical work, new insulation and new drywall were installed. Much of the home’s original trim was salvaged and reused, as was a piece of art glass, all to keep a bit of the past in the renovation.
The sagging subfloors were fixed, new hard wood floors were installed and a new staircase and railing were designed in a style similar to the original.
The solid wall between the kitchen and the dining room was removed, plumbing was relocated for a new sink location and the kitchen got expanded with an island into the dining room. Closet and plumbing stacks were relocated to allow a new space for fridge. Stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and custom cabinetry highlight the new modern kitchen.
The plan called for redesigning the three bedrooms on the second floor to allow a larger bathroom, walk-in closet and wider hallways. In addition to new roofing, a large skylight was installed to allow natural light into the bathroom and the upper hallway.
The basement was totally revamped. New plumbing was put in place for a full bathroom, laundry room and a den. New e-grass window was installed in the basement to bring this basement up to current building codes.
This homeowners love the neighborhood and now their home gives them the opportunity to stay in the same location.

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture
Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset.
The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu .
Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home.
The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south.
Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape.
The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature.
Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design.
Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view.
Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward.
Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: ZFA
Contractor: Maison D’Artiste
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023

This custom luxury kitchen was designed with one priority in mind: creating an effortless workflow that supports cooking, entertaining, and everyday living. Every element was carefully planned to ensure each workstation flows naturally into the next, allowing multiple people to cook, gather, and socialize comfortably without compromising functionality.
The spacious layout is centered around **two custom islands**, creating dedicated zones for food preparation, serving, casual dining, and entertaining. The generous circulation space between the islands, appliance wall, and cooking area provides an efficient kitchen work triangle while maintaining an open, inviting atmosphere.
The cooking station features a **Wolf GR484DG 48-inch Gas Range with Dual Infrared Griddle**, offering professional-grade performance for everything from weeknight dinners to large family gatherings. Above the range, a handcrafted **custom white oak vent hood** conceals the powerful **Zephyr Monsoon I AK9246BS 46-inch liner hood with 1,200 CFM**, delivering exceptional ventilation while preserving the clean architectural design.
The refrigeration area was designed for convenience and organization with a fully integrated **Sub-Zero Designer Series 30-inch panel-ready refrigerator (DET3050CIID)** and a **Sub-Zero Designer Series 18-inch dual-zone wine and beverage column (DEC1850W/L)**. Hidden behind custom cabinetry panels, these appliances maintain a seamless appearance while providing world-class food preservation and perfectly controlled wine storage.
Every cabinet in the kitchen was **custom built from white oak**, showcasing the natural beauty of the wood grain while maximizing storage with thoughtfully designed drawers, pantry storage, and appliance integration. The kitchen is finished with dramatic natural stone countertops that provide both durability and timeless elegance.
The cooking area is highlighted by the striking **Anatolia Tile Soho Collection 2" x 12" Retro Black Matte** backsplash, installed vertically from the countertop to the ceiling. Its rich matte finish creates texture and visual depth while beautifully framing the custom vent hood and Wolf range.
Underfoot, the **KALEIDO NERO 24" x 48" porcelain flooring** anchors the entire space with large-format slabs that create clean lines and a sophisticated contemporary feel. The dark porcelain flooring contrasts beautifully with the warm white oak cabinetry, adding depth while offering exceptional durability for a busy family kitchen.
From the dual islands and handcrafted cabinetry to the premium **Wolf**, **Sub-Zero**, and **Zephyr** appliances, every detail was selected to create a kitchen that is as functional as it is beautiful. The result is a timeless luxury space where exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and thoughtful design come together to support the way the homeowners live, cook, and entertain every day.

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture
Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset.
The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu .
Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home.
The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south.
Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape.
The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature.
Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design.
Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view.
Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward.
Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: ZFA
Contractor: Maison D’Artiste
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture
Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset.
The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu .
Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home.
The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south.
Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape.
The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature.
Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design.
Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view.
Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward.
Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: ZFA
Contractor: Maison D’Artiste
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023

Built in the early 1950s, this small urban townhouse is located in North Old Town Alexandria in an area currently undergoing major redevelopment. The neighborhood is popular with, and affordable for, young people and families, and very convenient to Washington, DC.
In its heyday, the townhouse touted a stately brick exterior, plaster walls, tongue and groove wood flooring and beautiful wooden staircase. Sixty years later, however, the homeowners were faced with crumbling masonry, sagging floors, a double layer of wallpaper over the plaster walls, a crumbling staircase, a dysfunctional kitchen and small, dark second floor rooms. Additionally, the basement had a low ceiling, moldy and cinder block walls, no plumbing and a large boiler taking up most of the space.
The homeowners’ goal was to restore the exterior’s historic look while creating an interior up-to-date for the 21st Century. To turn their vision into reality, they turned to Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes.
Design Solutions
To maintain the townhome’s historic exterior, the Michael Nash team carefully removed, salvaged, restored and reused existing brick masonry. Matching fascia boards and windows were combined with existing windows to complete the exterior renovation.
All interior walls were gutted and reframed. New electrical work, new insulation and new drywall were installed. Much of the home’s original trim was salvaged and reused, as was a piece of art glass, all to keep a bit of the past in the renovation.
The sagging subfloors were fixed, new hard wood floors were installed and a new staircase and railing were designed in a style similar to the original.
The solid wall between the kitchen and the dining room was removed, plumbing was relocated for a new sink location and the kitchen got expanded with an island into the dining room. Closet and plumbing stacks were relocated to allow a new space for fridge. Stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and custom cabinetry highlight the new modern kitchen.
The plan called for redesigning the three bedrooms on the second floor to allow a larger bathroom, walk-in closet and wider hallways. In addition to new roofing, a large skylight was installed to allow natural light into the bathroom and the upper hallway.
The basement was totally revamped. New plumbing was put in place for a full bathroom, laundry room and a den. New e-grass window was installed in the basement to bring this basement up to current building codes.
This homeowners love the neighborhood and now their home gives them the opportunity to stay in the same location.

Homeowner Services of Michigan (HSM) is excited to share the details of a new 16' x 22' family room expansion in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This project reflects our dedication to meeting our clients' specific needs.
Our clients approached us needing more space for their growing family and wanted a seamless integration with their existing home. After thorough consultations, we developed a plan to bring their vision to life.
The project began with careful architectural planning. We worked with a local architect to create detailed plans and secured all necessary permits to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Site preparation involved demolishing an existing carport, grading, and excavation to prepare the building pad for the new foundation. This step was essential to ensure a stable base for the construction.
Our team then focused on structural framing, tying the new addition to the existing home. We ensured that the new structure matched the current architectural style for a seamless blend. The addition was then roofed and sheathed to provide a sturdy and weatherproof exterior.
Next, we addressed the electrical work, installing new circuits for lighting, HVAC, and receptacles, and adding smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to meet safety standards. A licensed journeyman electrician performed the electrical service to ensure high-quality and compliant installations.
Insulation and drywall installation followed. We installed batt insulation to meet or exceed Michigan Energy Code requirements. The interior surfaces were finished with drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, and priming to prepare for painting. Baseboard molding and trim around doors and windows added the finishing touches.
Exterior features were also important. We framed and installed new windows and a front entry door and added a front eyebrow vent feature to match the existing structure. Vinyl siding was installed to complete the exterior, ensuring a cohesive look and enhanced curb appeal.
Throughout the project, we maintained a clean and professional worksite, disposing of debris responsibly and minimizing disruption to the client's daily lives. Our focus was always on delivering quality and ensuring client satisfaction.
This home addition project highlights our commitment to understanding and fulfilling our clients' needs. We are proud to have added valuable space and enhanced the overall functionality and aesthetic of the home.
These folks had a vision, a budget, and a whole lot of patience. We got through this family room remodel during a global pandemic. What great people to work with!

Living room with a comfortable L shaped sofa with white coloured walls. There are molding frames on the walls within which you can hang pictures which will be highlighted by wall lights. The L shapes sofa can easily seat eight people.

All the best that era of luxury royal palaces gave us and all the best that exists today in interior design are combined in the delightful Master Bedroom in classic style. Villa design in Dubai is for very decent and sophisticated people to satisfy all their requirements in the project. This interior, which delights, which pleasant to have and here you always want to come back. Premium Interior Design Dubai is always full of unique and original solutions and spectacular design techniques. Here the main violin in the orchestra of luxury is played by a large comfortable bed. Interior Design from Katrina Antonovich always involves a perfect combination and selection of decorative elements and furniture. For the most respectable interiors we offer not just a furniture from Italy, which is made by the leading factory on sketches of our designers. We offer our clients a meeting with representatives of factories or, if desired, a trip directly to the factory. This helps to make the process of creating your perfect home entertaining, interesting and enjoyable in all aspects. The highlight of the interior is that the beds are not traditionally placed at the walls, but at a large window. The decoration of the windows and the bed is a single image of grandeur in the classic style.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

A tired and dated, poorly layed out kitchen gets a bright and fresh new look in in the NW community of Arbour Lake in Calgary.
The corner pantry made way for plenty of storage and counter space and the former dining nook now houses a coffee bar. There’s no need for a separate table because the island has ample space to seat four people comfortably as well as houses extra storage for those infrequently used items. The floating wood shelves don’t just look amazing, they are great for easy access to your most used items. The hexagon tile back splash is installed to highlight the shelves and stainless hood and make a very graphic statement.

Living room with a comfortable L shaped sofa with white coloured walls. There are molding frames on the walls within which you can hang pictures which will be highlighted by wall lights. The L shapes sofa can easily seat eight people.

Avid entertainers who often host dinner parties and family events, want to go beyond simply having a functional and entertaining kitchen. The clients wish to give it a striking presence that encourages guests to gather and converse with one another. In consideration of this, the designer chose a warm neutral colour palette with darker tones to create an inviting and engaging environment.
The stainless-steel hood and upper cabinetry on the expanse of one wall highlights the activity within
the area and calls people to come together and cook. This detail becomes a bold accent within the space as the stainless steel is carried down onto the first set of drawers and on the appliances. The use of this industrial finish entices visitors to enter the kitchen.

A charming Airbnb rental in the Toronto area. We wanted the design to be glamorous and welcoming - a place where guests feel thay are most relaxed! Working within this client’s budget, we were able to design a beautiful and cohesive new look for the bedroom and living area. In the bedroom, we added new bedding with a play on pattern, stripes, and accents of gold. The art piece is a wonderful statement piece that was the inspiration to highlight some of the rich blues and subtle gold onto the bedding. The living room decor is warm & inviting with a play on contrast, texture, and pattern. Less is more here, with warm cream tones in the cushions and area rug which lightens up the space and creates harmony. The living room now meets the needs of these clients, with a sectional to seat multiple people and an arching floor lamp that adds great lighting.
Project completed by Toronto interior design firm Camden Lane Interiors, which serves Toronto.
For more about Camden Lane Interiors, click here: https://www.camdenlaneinteriors.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.camdenlaneinteriors.com/portfolio-item/torontocondo/

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

A charming Airbnb rental in the Toronto area. We wanted the design to be glamorous and welcoming - a place where guests feel they are most relaxed! Working within this client’s budget, we were able to design a beautiful and cohesive new look for the bedroom and living area. In the bedroom, we added new bedding with a play on pattern, stripes, and accents of gold. The art piece is a wonderful statement piece that was the inspiration to highlight some of the rich blues and subtle gold onto the bedding. The living room decor is warm & inviting with a play on contrast, texture, and pattern. Less is more here, with warm cream tones in the cushions and area rug which lightens up the space and creates harmony. The living room now meets the needs of these clients, with a sectional to seat multiple people and an arching floor lamp that adds great lighting.
Project completed by Toronto interior design firm Camden Lane Interiors, which serves Toronto.
For more about Camden Lane Interiors, click here: https://www.camdenlaneinteriors.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.camdenlaneinteriors.com/portfolio-item/torontocondo/

Living room with a comfortable L shaped sofa with white coloured walls. There are molding frames on the walls within which you can hang pictures which will be highlighted by wall lights. The L shapes sofa can easily seat eight people.

A charming Airbnb rental in the Toronto area. We wanted the design to be glamorous and welcoming - a place where guests feel thay are most relaxed! Working within this client’s budget, we were able to design a beautiful and cohesive new look for the bedroom and living area. In the bedroom, we added new bedding with a play on pattern, stripes, and accents of gold. The art piece is a wonderful statement piece that was the inspiration to highlight some of the rich blues and subtle gold onto the bedding. The living room decor is warm & inviting with a play on contrast, texture, and pattern. Less is more here, with warm cream tones in the cushions and area rug which lightens up the space and creates harmony. The living room now meets the needs of these clients, with a sectional to seat multiple people and an arching floor lamp that adds great lighting.
Project completed by Toronto interior design firm Camden Lane Interiors, which serves Toronto.
For more about Camden Lane Interiors, click here: https://www.camdenlaneinteriors.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.camdenlaneinteriors.com/portfolio-item/torontocondo/
25
