Search results for "Potential impact" in Home Design Ideas

This never-occupied, move-in ready custom home in The Estates at Ascent at The Phoenician showcases the power of professional home staging. With unobstructed Camelback Mountain views, over 4,600 sq ft of designer living space, and luxury finishes throughout, this property was thoughtfully staged to highlight its architectural beauty and create emotional appeal for high-end buyers.
Staging features include layered textures, neutral tones, and curated furnishings that enhance the natural light, open flow, and high-end amenities—like the invisacook induction island, glass-enclosed wine display, and spa-style primary suite. Every space, from the dramatic entry to the multiple view patios, was styled to maximize visual impact and buyer connection.
Luxury home staging helped bring this one-of-a-kind property to life, showing its full potential and lifestyle story.

The living room was a wide open canvas for designer, Clarissa Rigby. She grouped the space into smaller intimate groupings to allow for conversation areas while entertaining. A large commissioned art piece really anchors the space and the textures and finishes of the furniture and accessories really tie in well.
A custom bar cabinet with a beverage refrigerator was designed by Clarissa Rigby to be a stand alone feature. The modern geometric design, color, and feet allow it to be not only a conversation starter but a potential family heirloom.
Custom shelving were designed and added to a builder niche that the homeowner did not know what to do with. It allows for more function of the space, and looks like it was meant to be there.
The color pallet and finishes chosen, really make an impact on guests as they enter the home.

VICTORIAN LAKEFRONT BEFORE & AFTER
This neglected Victorian on the waterfront in Hudson was a perfect example of a diamond in the rough. But its new owners recognized its potential and (lucky for us) we were hired to redesign the main floor. Everything was replaced, from the uneven and mismatched floor boards, to the dilapidated, rickety old staircase. Not to mention, new windows, sexy new hot water heaters imported from England., a new kitchen and main floor bathroom. The entire house was painted Moonshine by Benjamin Moore - a watery blue-grey colour which works perfectly with all the wood and white trim. The kitchen was gutted and reconfigured to optimize the fantastic water views allowing the owners to relax at their new island (with soapstone counters). The beautiful blue backsplash tiles make this traditional white kitchen anything but boring. And we painted the adjacent dining room ceiling the same deep blue colour to add impact.
Our clients had travelled all over the world for work before returning to Montreal, and their art collection, geological artifacts, wool rugs and assortment of wood furniture (collected in Chile, Mexico and Arizona to name a few places) give this updated Victorian a lived-in, eclectic look. We added some unexpected lighting with a nod to the Victorian age throughout and the back room, once the exterior porch, is now a the perfect retreat to relax, hold book club meetings or just enjoy the views from the elegant new furniture or the newly reupholstered family heirloom bench.
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Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century.
Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century.
Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century.
Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

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Westerville, OH
Custom Home Works
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PROGRAM: RESIDENTIAL
LOCATION: DUNKIRK ESTATE, SALT ROCK, SOUTH AFRICA
SIZE: 350m²
Located within Dunkirk Estate, this design maximises the potential of the small site. It minimises impact on the surrounding environment by reducing cut and fill. The building opens up to the north and south to maximise natural light and reduce solar heat gain.
All windows on the upper ground floor slide away to promote cross ventilation and promote indoor/outdoor living. The large expanse of Low-E glass captures views into the forest from both levels, whilst maintaining a good thermal performance
The rainwater collected from the 15000 litre harvesting system will be used to flush toilets and irrigate the landscaping. The indigenous green roof not only reduces heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter, it also serves to visually integrate the built environment with the natural surrounding vegetation. The interiors were designed by Moos Interior Architects.

These photographs below are of a Slate Tiled Kitchen floor taken at a customer’s house in Henley-on-Thames which, as its name suggests, sits alongside the River Thames in Oxfordshire. My client’s Slate kitchen floor had recently been cleaned with unsuitable cleaning products which I suspect impacted the sealer leaving it looking dull. Sealers really to improve the look of a stone floor so unsurprisingly once the sealer had been damaged my client had been unable to find a cleaning product that could have any kind of positive effect on the tiles.
It’s fairly well known that many supermarket quality cleaners are only really designed for use on Ceramic or Porcelain tiled floors as they contain acids which strip away at sealers and acid sensitive stone floors, leaving the stone beneath vulnerable. So your select a cleaning product for your floor always read the small print on the back of the label and make sure you avoid anything that mentions not for use on acid sensitive stone; belter still Tile Doctor have a number of products for cleaning tiled floors including Neutral Cleaner and Stone Soap.
To clean the floor and remove any remaining sealer I first made a strong dilution of Tile Doctor Pro Clean which is a strong alkaline cleaner and then spread this over the floor, leaving it to dwell. This allows the cleaner to seep into the slate and get underneath, breakdown sealers and start to lift out ingrained dirt.
Following a dwelling period of roughly ten minutes, I agitated the floor periodically with a rotary machine fitted with a black scrubbing pad and scrubbed along the grout lines with a stiff grout brush. I then used a wet vacuum to extract the resultant slurry away and then followed up by rinsing the floor with clean water, and once again vacuumed up the residue.
Any stubborn areas were retreated until I was happy with the floor and then I left the floor to dry off completely overnight, in preparation for sealing the following day.
Upon my return to the house the following day, I ran some damp tests on different parts of the floor to check for any excess moisture which could potentially damage the performance of the sealer. Once I was satisfied that the floor was completely dry, I proceeded to seal the tiles using Tile Doctor Seal & Go. This will provide a robust surface seal for the future, along with an aesthetically pleasing low-sheen finish.
This sealer works particularly well on Slate tiles and, being a water-based sealant, additionally Seal & Go does not emit an unpleasant smell as it dries. Slate is quite a porous stone so I applied six coats of seal to provide long-lasting protection.
Barry Woodward
Oxfordshire Tile Doctor

VICTORIAN LAKEFRONT BEFORE & AFTER
This neglected Victorian on the waterfront in Hudson was a perfect example of a diamond in the rough. But its new owners recognized its potential and (lucky for us) we were hired to redesign the main floor. Everything was replaced, from the uneven and mismatched floor boards, to the dilapidated, rickety old staircase. Not to mention, new windows, sexy new hot water heaters imported from England., a new kitchen and main floor bathroom. The entire house was painted Moonshine by Benjamin Moore - a watery blue-grey colour which works perfectly with all the wood and white trim. The kitchen was gutted and reconfigured to optimize the fantastic water views allowing the owners to relax at their new island (with soapstone counters). The beautiful blue backsplash tiles make this traditional white kitchen anything but boring. And we painted the adjacent dining room ceiling the same deep blue colour to add impact.
Our clients had travelled all over the world for work before returning to Montreal, and their art collection, geological artifacts, wool rugs and assortment of wood furniture (collected in Chile, Mexico and Arizona to name a few places) give this updated Victorian a lived-in, eclectic look. We added some unexpected lighting with a nod to the Victorian age throughout and the back room, once the exterior porch, is now a the perfect retreat to relax, hold book club meetings or just enjoy the views from the elegant new furniture or the newly reupholstered family heirloom bench.

The family's once-loved home had become a source of frustration. Their kitchen, a space meant for gathering and creating, felt cramped and outdated. Limited storage and poor organization made meal prep a tedious task, and entertaining guests a logistical nightmare. The laundry room, often overlooked, was equally problematic. Its cramped layout and lack of storage made laundry day a chore, and the noise of the washing machine echoed through the living room.
To compound the issue, the absence of dedicated office spaces made working from home a constant struggle. One makeshift office was squeezed into the dining room, while another was relegated to the basement.
The family was hesitant to embark on a major renovation, fearing the challenges and uncertainties that come with such a project. Finding a reliable contractor, ensuring timely completion, and worrying about potential shoddy workmanship were all valid concerns.
We understood their anxieties and were committed to providing a smooth and stress-free experience. Our team crafted a design that addressed each of their concerns, transforming their home into a functional and stylish space.
We reimagined the laundry room, creating a custom storage solution and incorporating a stackable washer and dryer. The open hallway to the living room was enclosed, creating a spacious closet with ample storage. The laundry room now seamlessly connected to the kitchen, simplifying the grocery unloading process.
A former juliette balcony was converted into a dedicated office space, providing a peaceful and productive work-from-home environment.
The dated and cluttered ensuite bathroom received a luxurious makeover. A clever pull-out storage system in the shower wall and a spacious niche provided much-needed organization.
While every renovation project has its challenges, this one was remarkably smooth. The only significant hurdle was some additional structural work required in the basement to support the new office space. Our experienced team handled this efficiently, minimizing any disruption.
The final result is a home that truly reflects the family's personality and lifestyle. The laundry room, now a cheerful and organized space with soft green cabinets, patterned floor tiles, and gold accents, showcases our attention to detail.
The kitchen is a stunning centerpiece, featuring a striking combination of blue and white cabinets, dark hardwood floors, and a sleek white backsplash. The adjacent beverage bar, with its glass-fronted upper cabinets, provides an elegant space for entertaining.
The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like retreat, with large-format marble tiles, a black vanity, and chrome fixtures creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.
The renovation has had a profound impact on the family's daily life. Ample storage throughout the house has banished clutter, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. The seamless flow from the laundry room to the kitchen has streamlined the grocery unloading process, and the dedicated office spaces have transformed the work-from-home experience.
Beyond the physical transformation, it was the shared moments and laughter that made this project truly special. The family's enthusiasm and good humor were contagious. One of the clients, with his big personality, even starred in a walk-through video of the finished project, showcasing his infectious joy.
From choosing tiles to navigating unexpected challenges, the entire process was filled with warmth and collaboration. Even their four-year-old son, initially shy, warmed up to our site leader, Gus, nicknaming him "Gus the Bus," a moniker that endeared him to the entire team.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill
This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life.
Understanding Their Needs:
From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved.
Addressing Their Concerns:
We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises.
Our Personalized Solutions:
We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires:
● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience.
● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine.
● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience.
● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating
countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives.
● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
Navigating the Challenges Together:
Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions
and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process.
The Joy of Transformation:
The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience.
A Space to Cherish:
The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together.
Memorable Moments and Hiccups:
● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

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Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Following the purchase of this beautiful home, we were brought on to create living spaces tailored to the needs it's new occupants and provide a much needed update. This included the kitchen, common areas, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, paint, new floors, countertops, and more.
Working around a price sensitive budget for this home's full renovation was a nice challenge and our biggest accomplishment. It was essential for the finished product to be high-end, while maintaining it's functionality and durability for years to come. We accomplished this with lots research to find the same high-quality materials at the best price points, as well as alternative products of equal quality and design impact.
What was once an outdated house falling short of its immense potential has since been transformed into a beautiful home perfect for both living and entertaining.

This never-occupied, move-in ready custom home in The Estates at Ascent at The Phoenician showcases the power of professional home staging. With unobstructed Camelback Mountain views, over 4,600 sq ft of designer living space, and luxury finishes throughout, this property was thoughtfully staged to highlight its architectural beauty and create emotional appeal for high-end buyers.
Staging features include layered textures, neutral tones, and curated furnishings that enhance the natural light, open flow, and high-end amenities—like the invisacook induction island, glass-enclosed wine display, and spa-style primary suite. Every space, from the dramatic entry to the multiple view patios, was styled to maximize visual impact and buyer connection.
Luxury home staging helped bring this one-of-a-kind property to life, showing its full potential and lifestyle story.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots.
The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen.
As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family.
Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan.
The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views.
Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life.
Outcomes and Lasting Impact
The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place.
Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard.
Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners.
Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes
Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc.
Contractor: Golden Snail Builders
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed:2022

Elevate Your Space with Glass Partitions: A Boundaryless Solution for Enhanced Aesthetics and Functionality
Transform your commercial or residential space with the elegance and versatility of glass partitions. Our meticulously crafted glass partitions seamlessly divide and define any area without compromising the overall openness and flow of your environment. Whether you're seeking to create private enclaves in your office or enhance the visual appeal of your home, our glass partitions offer an unparalleled solution.
Unleash the Beauty of Tempered Glass
At the heart of our glass partitions lies the exceptional quality of our tempered glass. This robust material undergoes a rigorous heat treatment process, resulting in enhanced strength and durability. Our tempered glass partitions are:
Impact-resistant: Withstand accidental bumps and collisions, ensuring safety and longevity.
Heat-resistant: Can endure extreme temperature fluctuations without warping or cracking.
Scratch-resistant: Maintain their pristine appearance, even in high-traffic areas.
Aesthetics and Functionality in Harmony
Our glass partitions go beyond mere room dividers; they serve as architectural masterpieces that elevate the visual appeal of any space. The transparency of glass allows natural light to permeate throughout, creating a sense of spaciousness and fostering a brighter, more welcoming ambiance.
Why Choose Glass Partitions?
Enhanced privacy: Create designated workspaces or private areas without sacrificing an open layout.
Improved noise reduction: Minimize distractions and maintain a focused work environment.
Versatility: Adapt to any interior design style, from modern minimalism to classic elegance.
Low maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a lasting shine.
Unlock the Potential of Your Space
Whether you're a business owner seeking to optimize your office space or a homeowner looking to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your residence, our glass partitions offer a transformative solution. Contact us today to discover how our glass partitions can elevate your space to new heights.

Nestled amidst a neighborhood of single story bungalows in Venice, California, the Solar Umbrella Residence boldly establishes a precedent for the next generation of California modernist architecture. Located on a 41’ wide x 100’-0” long through lot, the Solar Umbrella addition transforms the architects’ existing 650 square foot bungalow into a 1900 square foot residence equipped for responsible living in the twenty-first century.
Inspired by Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House of 1953, the Solar Umbrella provides a contemporary reinvention of the solar canopy—a strategy that provides thermal protection in climates with intense exposures. In establishing the program for their residence, which accommodates the couple and their one child chose to integrate into the design, principles of sustainability that they strive to achieve in their own practice. The architects carefully considered the entire site, taking advantage of as many opportunities for sustainable living as possible. Passive and active solar design strategies render the residence 100% energy neutral. Recycled, renewable, and high performance materials and products are specified throughout. Hardscape and landscape treatments are considered for their aesthetic and actual impact on the land. The Brooks Scarpa Residence elegantly crafts each of these strategies and materials, exploiting the potential for performance and sensibility while achieving a rich and interesting sensory and aesthetic experience.

This 1998 Marysville rambler, full of amazing potential, had a serious case of the “Builder Basic Blues” and was in need of a revamp. The original floorplan included a series of walls that both encased the kitchen and chopped up the main living area. By removing the walls and relocating the kitchen a significant impact was made on the function and aesthetics of the home. Now instead of separated rooms, the open concept allows for a wonderful flow and maximizes the entire space. Design solutions included exchanging the orange-hued oak cabinets for the quintessential classic white shaker style cabinetry with multiple storage solutions and the lux touch of ice blue picket glass mosaic tile backsplash.
The butler’s pantry which is built into the wall across from the kitchen provides a plethora of storage options. Glass doors for display and a combination of stationary shelves and pull out drawers make this beautiful cabinet space a boon for storing anything from china plates and tablecloths to cereal boxes and paper towels. Gorgeous long board luxury vinyl plank flooring is carried throughout and into the master bathroom that received a spectacular makeover including a custom vanity, large linen cabinet and glass enclosed walk-in shower with distinct 12×24 grey porcelain tile. Click here to see their small bathroom remodel, including before/after remodel.
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