The Ellis Mid Century Bookshelf is a handcrafted storage piece designed to bring warmth, structure, and practical organization into modern interiors. Built from 100% solid pine wood with a strong metal frame, it combines natural wood texture with a clean architectural silhouette. Its open shelf design provides generous space for books, plants, framed photos, ceramics, office supplies, and decorative objects. The contrast between solid pine shelves and the slim metal frame gives Ellis a balanced look that works well in living rooms, home offices, bedrooms, entryways, and studio spaces. Available in multiple widths and two height options, Ellis can adapt to both compact rooms and wider feature walls. The 5-shelf and 6-shelf configurations make it useful for different storage needs while keeping the overall design light, open, and visually organized. With its mid-century modern character, natural wood grain, water-resistant matte finish, and easy assembly structure, Ellis is designed as both a functional bookcase and a stylish display piece for everyday interiors.

The Aren Farmhouse Round Wood Coffee Table is a handcrafted solid pine furniture piece designed to bring warmth, texture, and rustic character into everyday living spaces. Its round tabletop, natural pine grain, visible knots, and solid wood structure create a welcoming centerpiece for relaxed and cozy interiors. The circular form softens the layout of the living room while providing a practical surface for books, trays, coffee cups, flowers, candles, and decorative objects. Its farmhouse-inspired design works beautifully in rustic, cottage, country, modern farmhouse, warm minimalist, and transitional interiors. Crafted from 100% solid pine wood, Aren highlights the natural variation of real wood, making each table slightly unique in tone and grain. The smoothly sanded surface is finished with a protective matte coating designed to resist everyday water contact and minor scratches. Available in multiple diameter and height options, Aren can adapt to compact seating areas, standard sofa arrangements, larger sectional layouts, waiting rooms, winter gardens, and casual lounge spaces. With its handmade construction, simple round form, and custom-size availability, Aren is designed as both a functional coffee table and a warm rustic focal point for real homes.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

This bespoke modern media unit was designed and handcrafted for the living room of a private family residence in Surrey. We worked closely with our clients to develop the freestanding piece of uniquely elegant and highly practical furniture. The bold, contemporary design featuring a stepped cornice has given their living room impressive structure and style. Our clients wanted the furniture to make a stunning statement feature in the room. The TV screen is integrated into the design and surrounded by open shelving to display their favourite books and ornaments. Uniquely designed and crafted for the space We began by exploring ideas for the design of the unit, along with materials and finishes. We produced detailed CAD visuals so our clients could clearly envisage how the finished furniture design would look in the space. Tailored display shelving and storage cabinets For this TV unit in their Surrey home, our clients wanted to have open display areas for books and artworks, with lower cabinets for storage. Finished in the latest Italian-designed Xylocleaf veneers, the backs of the open shelving have an impressive, decorative look. The lower cupboards of this unit feature reeded panelled doors with a smooth, push to open, handle-free design. The reeded feature on the doors elevates the furniture design and adds an interesting texture to the unit. High end, sophisticated paint finish Colour was important for our clients. With a bespoke by Acorn media unit, you can have any paint colour you like and sheen from matte to high gloss. Our clients chose Farrow and Ball’s Railings. More blue than black, Railings has a velvety quality which adds a softness to the deep, strong colour. It’s dramatic yet has a cocooning quality and the opulent shade sets off artworks perfectly. We used luxurious XyloCleaf boards for the open display backs. Together with the concealed LED lighting this achieves a visually stunning dimension and atmosphere. Luxury laminated surfaces At Acorn, we can offer you some of the finest materials and finishes for your bespoke media furniture. For this high-end contemporary look, our clients chose decorative back panels by Xylocleaf, which combine exceptional Italian flair with class-leading technical standards. The decorative panels are perfect for distinctive cabinetry and luxury interiors. Bespoke LED lighting for the unit The display shelving has been illuminated to add dimension and ambience. Integrated dimmable LED lighting puts our client’s beautiful objects in the spotlight and creates a warming glow.

The Setup For this primary bathroom project, the homeowners wanted to transform their large, T-shaped bathroom into a functional, multi-purpose sanctuary. The existing layout was inefficient, with a bulky built-in tub, a closed-off shower, and an awkward footprint that limited practical use. This remodel also presented a unique challenge – the homeowners wanted to use the space for workouts as well. The design needed to maximize the large open area in the middle of the T, providing enough room for yoga and light free-weight exercises while maintaining the bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality. Design objectives: Expand and brighten the shower area without major layout changes Replace the oversized built-in tub with a sleek freestanding alternative Create a flexible space for workouts while maintaining the bathroom’s design integrity Address cold flooring with added comfort solutions Enhance lighting for both beauty and functionality Incorporate storage for workout equipment and everyday essentials Integrate natural elements to accommodate the homeowners’ love of plants The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: Shower Expansion – The homeowners want a more open, spa-like shower but don’t want to dramatically alter the footprint. Workout Integration – Balancing fitness functionality with a serene bathroom design will require creative layout adjustments. Storage Solutions – With workout gear to stow away, the space needs discrete and versatile storage options. Lighting – Enhancing both natural and artificial lighting to brighten the large space. Cold Floors – Positioned above the garage, the bathroom tends to feel colder than the adjacent primary bedroom. A solution is needed to add warmth and comfort during use, without the need to reconfigure the home’s overall heating system. The Renewed Space Design solutions: Spa-Like Shower Expansion – Removing a wall and replacing it with glass transformed the shower into an open, airy retreat, allowing natural light to flow freely through the space. A curved black river rock floor and neutral linear wall tiles add warmth and texture, while carefully placed niche lighting enhances the tranquil, luxurious atmosphere. Workout-Friendly Layout – A custom full-length mirror was strategically placed to accommodate multiple uses, creating a fitness studio-like experience for yoga or light weight training. The mirror’s size and positioning allow for clear visibility during workouts, while also enhancing the room by adding light and a greater sense of depth. Custom Storage Solutions – A custom cabinet with a wood top was crafted to discreetly store workout equipment, preserving the clean, open feel of the space. Its design not only enhances functionality but also creates a sense of symmetry, bringing visual balance and cohesion to the overall layout. Enhanced Lighting – Replacing the shower wall with glass, installing a full-length mirror, and incorporating vanity mirrors with built-in lighting dramatically brighten the space. LED strip lighting under the cabinets, along the tub half wall, and in both the side and shower niches adds layered illumination, enhancing both function and ambiance. Heated Floors – Installing heated flooring provides consistent warmth and comfort year-round, enhancing the space for both workouts and daily routines. A European-style towel warmer brings additional warmth and a touch of luxury, elevating the overall experience. Final Thoughts: This transformed bathroom blends luxury with intentional design. By addressing the homeowners’ needs – from workout flexibility to spa-inspired details – the space now serves multiple purposes without compromise. The warm cabinetry, black accents and thoughtful lighting tie the design together, while the curved textures and plant-friendly ledge add a personalized touch. This bathroom is now a bright, welcoming sanctuary for daily routines and mindful moments.

Dennis and Joe have a large, light-filled house. New construction meant lofted space and open floor plans with traditional styling. Running a busy dental practice by day and engaged in a rich social life by night, this couple needed a professional to take the lead on making their house a home. That’s my cue! They wanted to take risks, and stay away from “matchy-matchy”. We gussied up a plain ol’ TV room and gave it a healthy dose of luxury. Our plan was initially inspired by an abstract painting hanging over their stone fireplace. We brought in their love of the outdoors to make things cozy and used family furniture whenever possible for nostalgia and comfort. I took their love for one-of-a-kind objects and started making a design plan, aiming to solve their biggest frustration: the family room. They had a tortured relationship with a “forgotten family room,” a great space that was spacious and bright, but not at all cozy or joyful, and certainly not “them.” I wanted to create a cozy space functional for everyday curling up with puppies and watching TV after dinner, yet chic enough for hosting the pre-dinner kitchen overflow and cocktails during parties. I went looking for contrasting textures and materials. I wanted to balance patterns and scale, and use non-traditional colors as neutrals to create an overall sense of “BAM!” Dennis and Joe loved the nod to the classics juxtaposed with new and different globally-inspired pieces. For this project our design aesthetic can be described as Middle Eastern/tribal meets mid-century modern. We played to their sensible side with proportion and balance, and stayed as far away from boring/bleh as we could. You could say this room was pretty successful...It was featured in DC Modern Luxury. (#nobigdeal, right?) From there we moved on to other spaces.. We added colorful pillows and sheer drapery to finish off their formal living room. We kept an inherited bedroom set from Dennis’ Mom and added color, draperies, and pillows to overhaul the guest bedroom. Their project was not a rip-and-replace, we weren’t starting from scratch with a blank piece of paper. Rather, our goal was to take what was already there and make it better, more like them. Using functionality first, we focused on giving the house a soothing, joyful aesthetic. We upped the chic factor by a gajillion and helped them find their ‘happy’ at home. See more Safferstone stuff at www.safferstone.com. Connect with us on Facebook, get inspired on Pinterest, and share modern musings on life & design on Instagram. Or, send us a love note at hello@safferstone.com. Photo: Angie Seckinger

Project Details Lake home features traditional cottage theme with a combination of stone, stucco and shake siding. Features include custom red wood garage doors, special order Marvin front entry system and custom alder cabinetry. The most unique part of this home was the butler’s pantry housing an extra refrigerator, dishwasher and pantry storage. Client Objectives The homeowners were looking for a contractor that could help them convert their dreams a building a practice lake home, ideal for the pro fisherman on Lake Minnetonka into reality. They wanted a cozy home for family gatherings while also keeping the ability for resale an option. “I waited several years to find the right time and the right lot to build my lake home. After interviewing several contractors I turned to Jeff because he was able to take the plans that I had spent years working on and design something that fit my needs while also keep an eye on resale. I was impressed with his expertise and knowledge of Orono’s zoning regulations. In the end, we partnered together to build the lake home of my dreams.”

Project Objectives: Reconfigure interior layouts to maximize space utilization and flow. Introduce contemporary fixtures and smart appliances for an upgraded lifestyle. Focus on sustainable building practices to enhance energy efficiency. Redesign outdoor living areas to complement the home’s modern aesthetic. Complete renovations within a predetermined timeline and budget, following strict compliance standards.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity. The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions. A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework. The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old. The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance. While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance. A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design. Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022

Our client bought an older expansive bungalow in Manotick with a stunning waterfront backyard. This beautiful setting became the foundation for our open concept Kitchen and Family Room Design. Besides the usual great functional requirements, the client wanted a ‘Rockstar’ visual kitchen to complement an eclectic collection of Mid-Century Furniture and objects. The reclaimed Northern Wide plank Oak hardwood (colour: Mill creek, collection: Artifax), floor provides a rustic and comfortable grounding to the crisp modernism of the kitchen. The floor is especially practical as the inevitable scratches from the family dog can be easily corrected by the client. The Kitchen features a ‘Bridge’ design of walnut cabinetry surrounding the pro-style fridge and freezer. Other appliances are clustered with demi-tall pantries and form an interesting linear definition that suits the ‘Long’ Room of Kitchen and Family Room. A walnut Eating Bar and walnut interior for the dish pantry complete the triad of walnut in the Kitchen. High gloss white cabinets featuring handle-free design are topped with gray quartz. The stunning Noble Grey light marble backsplash is installed with a Horizontal grain to complement the linear definition. The Family Room features an offset linear fireplace that is balanced with a substantial walnut entertainment unit. The awkward and unmoveable doorway was incorporated into the design to create the effect of a unit that is much larger than it actually is. The walnut wood matches the Kitchen but is installed with a horizontal grain, repeating the character of the kitchen backsplash.

The Sofa bed Featuring 2 uses in one, this sectional sofa is designed to be used as either a sofa or bed depending on your immediate needs. The Pullout Couch Bed Perfect for accommodating overnight guests during the holiday seasons or unexpected drop-ins, simply grab the thick fabric handles secured underneath the seat cushions and pull to release the twin sized mattress for sleeping. Lift and push the mattress back into the sofa when finished and tuck away the handles to have this piece Upholstery Loveseat Sleeper look like a standard U-Shape sectional. This sofa with Storage Space under Chaise, Can store sheets and pillows, as well as books or some objects. This is a beautiful and practical sofa, it is a very good choice.

Free from all unnecessary objects with a clean, stylish, and uncluttered design, this contemporary kitchen is the minimalist's dream! This kitchen is also incredibly practical with the space-saving design innovations with built-in appliances and custom cabinets. Design features include large format porcelain tile, under-mount sink, flat-panel dark wood cabinets, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, integrated paneled appliances, an island, and smart home electoral system.

At times, the most remarkable spaces emerge when we begin with a clean slate. In this particular project, we had the privilege to design a completely custom home, starting from scratch for our client. They simply entrusted us with a piece of land, and from that point forward, we handled everything. Our primary objective for this project was to craft an exceptional, contemporary, and practical dream home for a family of four. By creatively manipulating height variations at the front of the house, we conceived the standout element of the home: the impressive windows that showcase the bespoke steel spinal staircase.

Project Objectives: Reconfigure interior layouts to maximize space utilization and flow. Introduce contemporary fixtures and smart appliances for an upgraded lifestyle. Focus on sustainable building practices to enhance energy efficiency. Redesign outdoor living areas to complement the home’s modern aesthetic. Complete renovations within a predetermined timeline and budget, following strict compliance standards.

This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room. The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth. A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility. Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

The Poul Henningsen designed PH Bow Piano is a radical departure from the expectation of how a wooden-cased piano should be presented. It was Poul Henningsen’s innate belief that when designing a piece of furniture form should always follow function and that the practical performance of his creation was of paramount importance. PH also believed that it was possible to redesign many everyday objects and pieces of furniture in such away that not only would they function better but they would also be more aesthetically pleasing. The PH Bow Piano is no exception to this philosophy.

Free from all unnecessary objects with a clean, stylish, and uncluttered design, this contemporary kitchen is the minimalist's dream! This kitchen is also incredibly practical with the space-saving design innovations with built-in appliances and custom cabinets. Design features include large format porcelain tile, under-mount sink, flat-panel dark wood cabinets, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, integrated paneled appliances, an island, and smart home electoral system.

The Eliseo Contemporary Dining Table will create a luxurious and modern atmosphere while serving all practical intents. Made in Italy by Tonin Casa, Eliseo Designer Dining Table is a true furnishing object with function, beauty and style. The base offers a unique contemporary design made out of three bowed, interlocking elements that get narrower as they get closer to the top to offer a stunning multi-dimensional view through the transparent tempered glass top.

Free from all unnecessary objects with a clean, stylish, and uncluttered design, this contemporary kitchen is the minimalist's dream! This kitchen is also incredibly practical with the space-saving design innovations with built-in appliances and custom cabinets. Design features include large format porcelain tile, under-mount sink, flat-panel dark wood cabinets, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, integrated paneled appliances, an island, and smart home electoral system.