Search results for "Preserving remarkable" in Home Design Ideas

Easton, Maryland Traditional Kitchen Design by #JenniferGilmer with a lake view
http://gilmerkitchens.com/
Photography by Bob Narod

William Drummond started working as a young architect side by side with Frank Lloyd Wright in Louis Sullivan's Chicago office. When Wright started his own office Drummond worked for Wright on many of his most important Prairie homes. Eventually Drummond started his own practice and in 1913 built this house for himself. It's a remarkably compact and efficient plan, minimizing circulation space and packing a surprising number of rooms into a small footprint while still providing the flowing space and vistas that characterize the Prairie Style. Visit Historic American Homes for purchase information

There’s something truly special about mid-century homes—the craftsmanship, the character, and the little surprises tucked into every corner. As mid-century enthusiasts ourselves, we were thrilled when a client asked us to help redesign their grandmother’s house, blending nostalgia with a fresh, modern perspective. The homeowners envisioned a French Provincial-inspired style while preserving the soul of the home. We introduced modern amenities like a full-scale kitchen, mudroom, and open-concept great room while carefully maintaining cherished details—original hallway built-ins, foyer pocket doors, and other vintage touches that carry the home’s history forward. The best compliment? When family remarked, “It feels like you, with an essence of Grandma, but it’s not Grandma’s house anymore.” That perfect balance of honoring the past while celebrating the future is what makes Juniper Lane so special.
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Town & Style Magazine
I would characterize this MCM project as a bundle of stress, labor of love in more ways than one. Picture this…clients come in town from LA for one weekend, tour a sprawling 7000 sf home nestled in Frontenac, share their vision with us, and away they go, back to LA, pack up their life and prepare for their move that was quickly approaching. First things first, I must say, it is one of my most favorite projects and homes to date. I. want. this. house. Like, for real.
Walking in the home, you are welcomed by wall to wall sliding glass doors that house an indoor pool, center courtyard, and this [now] gorgeous home wraps itself around these unique centerpieces of living space. You can see the pool and courtyard from almost any point of the home. The natural light, clean lines and mid century modern architecture was preserved and honed back to its remarkable state.
We had to design, project manage, construct the renovations…everything from the ground up within just a few months. Did I mention the kitchen was nearly gutted, new floors, removing walls, bathroom face lifts, overall design, interior and exterior paint, electrical…..whew, I’m tired just reliving the experience.

Truckee, CA — Nestled in the exclusive Lake Tahoe community of Martis Camp, this remarkable mountain home exemplifies the height of refined mountain modern design. Recently updated with a seamless transition from cool to warm tones, it offers a luxurious, inviting atmosphere ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. The renovation thoughtfully preserves the home's original charm and honors the legacy it represents.

Remarkable Condo Transformation at Grand Preserve
Welcome to our latest project reveal: the stunning transformation of a 2,885 SF luxury condo. Join us as we take you on a room-by-room tour of this beautiful space and share the before and after moments that will leave you speechless. From a completely upgraded kitchen to a luxurious master bathroom, the results of our redesign have created an elegant, comfortable, and inviting living space that perfectly blends style and functionality. Let's dive in and explore the meticulous details of this awe-inspiring transformation.
Reworked Front Entryway:
A first impression sets the tone for the overall experience, and that is precisely what we aimed to achieve with the front entryway. We reconfigured this area to make it more welcoming and functional, adding stylish yet practical elements that would make any guest feel instantly at home. By removing a large, outdated built-in console, we gave this space an instant refresh and created a more visually harmonious entryway.
Completely Upgraded Kitchen:
The heart of every home is the kitchen, and this luxury condo got the full treatment. We replaced the old cabinetry with new, contemporary flat front cabinets, and installed white quartz countertops that ooze elegance. The addition of a new white beauty quartz island provides ample space for meal prep or casual dining, while the custom tile backsplash adds a stunning visual element. As the cherry on top, we installed top-of-the-line appliances for the ultimate cooking experience.
Open Floor Plan:
To create a more open and inviting living space, we removed the wall between the morning room and dining room. This smart design move allowed natural light to flow through the entire space, making it feel even larger and more welcoming. By connecting these two areas visually and physically, we created the perfect setting for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Master Bedroom Makeover:
The master bedroom needed a breath of fresh air, and that's exactly what it got. We removed the dated carpeting and replaced it with new, elegant flooring that gives the room a more sophisticated and polished appearance. In this sanctuary, you can now enjoy a soothing and tranquil retreat away from everyday life.
Master Bath Overhaul:
A complete overhaul was in order for the master bathroom, and we went all out to create a spa-like oasis. The once-cramped space was opened up, and new, stunning flooring was installed. We added custom cabinetry for optimal storage and organization, and topped them with gorgeous new white quartz countertops. The shower was upgraded with elegant tile and the addition of a practical yet luxurious shower seat.
New Exterior Sliding doors:
Last but not least, we made a significant improvement to the exterior of the luxury condo by adding new, high-quality sliding doors. These not only enhance the condo's aesthetic appeal but also create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience by providing easy access to a breathtaking outdoor space.
This remarkable luxury condo transformation attests to the positive impact of thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. Every detail of the project reflects our dedication to delivering a comfortable and stylish haven for our clients. The end result? A 2,885 SF wonderland that elevates everyday living and provides the perfect backdrop for making memories that will last a lifetime. We hope this transformation inspires you to reimagine your own living spaces and create the sanctuary you've been dreaming of.
About Grand Preserve
Nestled in the picturesque city of Naples, Florida lies the Grand Preserve, an exquisite residential community that offers its residents an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. Located just moments away from the breathtaking Vanderbilt Beach, the Grand Preserve immerses its residents in an environment of natural beauty, with stunning sunsets, rolling waves, and stretches of pristine sands that seem to stretch out to infinity. With unrivaled amenities and world-class services, the Grand Preserve is the ideal place for those who appreciate the finer things in life and expect nothing but the best. Whether you are a sunseeker, a beachcomber, or a nature lover, the Grand Preserve is the ultimate destination for those who want to experience the very best of Florida living.
Home Builders in Naples Florida For 30+ Years
Naples, Florida has long been a destination for those seeking luxury living in paradise. And when it comes to finding the perfect home to fit that lifestyle, you want to trust the experts – and that's where home builders with decades of experience come in. With over 30 years of building homes in Naples, Signal House has an unmatched knowledge of the local real estate market and a keen eye for design that perfectly complements the Florida lifestyle. From breathtaking waterfront properties to custom-built estates, we have the experience and expertise to bring your dream home to life. So why settle for a cookie-cutter house when you can have a custom-built masterpiece in the Sunshine State?
Explore more about this transformative project and take a guided video tour on our website. Click here for an immersive experience you won't want to pass up: https://www.signalhousebuilders.com/portfolio/grand-preserve-condo-remodel

Remarkable Condo Transformation at Grand Preserve
Welcome to our latest project reveal: the stunning transformation of a 2,885 SF luxury condo. Join us as we take you on a room-by-room tour of this beautiful space and share the before and after moments that will leave you speechless. From a completely upgraded kitchen to a luxurious master bathroom, the results of our redesign have created an elegant, comfortable, and inviting living space that perfectly blends style and functionality. Let's dive in and explore the meticulous details of this awe-inspiring transformation.
Reworked Front Entryway:
A first impression sets the tone for the overall experience, and that is precisely what we aimed to achieve with the front entryway. We reconfigured this area to make it more welcoming and functional, adding stylish yet practical elements that would make any guest feel instantly at home. By removing a large, outdated built-in console, we gave this space an instant refresh and created a more visually harmonious entryway.
Completely Upgraded Kitchen:
The heart of every home is the kitchen, and this luxury condo got the full treatment. We replaced the old cabinetry with new, contemporary flat front cabinets, and installed white quartz countertops that ooze elegance. The addition of a new white beauty quartz island provides ample space for meal prep or casual dining, while the custom tile backsplash adds a stunning visual element. As the cherry on top, we installed top-of-the-line appliances for the ultimate cooking experience.
Open Floor Plan:
To create a more open and inviting living space, we removed the wall between the morning room and dining room. This smart design move allowed natural light to flow through the entire space, making it feel even larger and more welcoming. By connecting these two areas visually and physically, we created the perfect setting for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Master Bedroom Makeover:
The master bedroom needed a breath of fresh air, and that's exactly what it got. We removed the dated carpeting and replaced it with new, elegant flooring that gives the room a more sophisticated and polished appearance. In this sanctuary, you can now enjoy a soothing and tranquil retreat away from everyday life.
Master Bath Overhaul:
A complete overhaul was in order for the master bathroom, and we went all out to create a spa-like oasis. The once-cramped space was opened up, and new, stunning flooring was installed. We added custom cabinetry for optimal storage and organization, and topped them with gorgeous new white quartz countertops. The shower was upgraded with elegant tile and the addition of a practical yet luxurious shower seat.
New Exterior Sliding doors:
Last but not least, we made a significant improvement to the exterior of the luxury condo by adding new, high-quality sliding doors. These not only enhance the condo's aesthetic appeal but also create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience by providing easy access to a breathtaking outdoor space.
This remarkable luxury condo transformation attests to the positive impact of thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. Every detail of the project reflects our dedication to delivering a comfortable and stylish haven for our clients. The end result? A 2,885 SF wonderland that elevates everyday living and provides the perfect backdrop for making memories that will last a lifetime. We hope this transformation inspires you to reimagine your own living spaces and create the sanctuary you've been dreaming of.
About Grand Preserve
Nestled in the picturesque city of Naples, Florida lies the Grand Preserve, an exquisite residential community that offers its residents an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. Located just moments away from the breathtaking Vanderbilt Beach, the Grand Preserve immerses its residents in an environment of natural beauty, with stunning sunsets, rolling waves, and stretches of pristine sands that seem to stretch out to infinity. With unrivaled amenities and world-class services, the Grand Preserve is the ideal place for those who appreciate the finer things in life and expect nothing but the best. Whether you are a sunseeker, a beachcomber, or a nature lover, the Grand Preserve is the ultimate destination for those who want to experience the very best of Florida living.
Home Builders in Naples Florida For 30+ Years
Naples, Florida has long been a destination for those seeking luxury living in paradise. And when it comes to finding the perfect home to fit that lifestyle, you want to trust the experts – and that's where home builders with decades of experience come in. With over 30 years of building homes in Naples, Signal House has an unmatched knowledge of the local real estate market and a keen eye for design that perfectly complements the Florida lifestyle. From breathtaking waterfront properties to custom-built estates, we have the experience and expertise to bring your dream home to life. So why settle for a cookie-cutter house when you can have a custom-built masterpiece in the Sunshine State?
Explore more about this transformative project and take a guided video tour on our website. Click here for an immersive experience you won't want to pass up: https://www.signalhousebuilders.com/portfolio/grand-preserve-condo-remodel

Remarkable Condo Transformation at Grand Preserve
Welcome to our latest project reveal: the stunning transformation of a 2,885 SF luxury condo. Join us as we take you on a room-by-room tour of this beautiful space and share the before and after moments that will leave you speechless. From a completely upgraded kitchen to a luxurious master bathroom, the results of our redesign have created an elegant, comfortable, and inviting living space that perfectly blends style and functionality. Let's dive in and explore the meticulous details of this awe-inspiring transformation.
Reworked Front Entryway:
A first impression sets the tone for the overall experience, and that is precisely what we aimed to achieve with the front entryway. We reconfigured this area to make it more welcoming and functional, adding stylish yet practical elements that would make any guest feel instantly at home. By removing a large, outdated built-in console, we gave this space an instant refresh and created a more visually harmonious entryway.
Completely Upgraded Kitchen:
The heart of every home is the kitchen, and this luxury condo got the full treatment. We replaced the old cabinetry with new, contemporary flat front cabinets, and installed white quartz countertops that ooze elegance. The addition of a new white beauty quartz island provides ample space for meal prep or casual dining, while the custom tile backsplash adds a stunning visual element. As the cherry on top, we installed top-of-the-line appliances for the ultimate cooking experience.
Open Floor Plan:
To create a more open and inviting living space, we removed the wall between the morning room and dining room. This smart design move allowed natural light to flow through the entire space, making it feel even larger and more welcoming. By connecting these two areas visually and physically, we created the perfect setting for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Master Bedroom Makeover:
The master bedroom needed a breath of fresh air, and that's exactly what it got. We removed the dated carpeting and replaced it with new, elegant flooring that gives the room a more sophisticated and polished appearance. In this sanctuary, you can now enjoy a soothing and tranquil retreat away from everyday life.
Master Bath Overhaul:
A complete overhaul was in order for the master bathroom, and we went all out to create a spa-like oasis. The once-cramped space was opened up, and new, stunning flooring was installed. We added custom cabinetry for optimal storage and organization, and topped them with gorgeous new white quartz countertops. The shower was upgraded with elegant tile and the addition of a practical yet luxurious shower seat.
New Exterior Sliding doors:
Last but not least, we made a significant improvement to the exterior of the luxury condo by adding new, high-quality sliding doors. These not only enhance the condo's aesthetic appeal but also create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience by providing easy access to a breathtaking outdoor space.
This remarkable luxury condo transformation attests to the positive impact of thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. Every detail of the project reflects our dedication to delivering a comfortable and stylish haven for our clients. The end result? A 2,885 SF wonderland that elevates everyday living and provides the perfect backdrop for making memories that will last a lifetime. We hope this transformation inspires you to reimagine your own living spaces and create the sanctuary you've been dreaming of.
About Grand Preserve
Nestled in the picturesque city of Naples, Florida lies the Grand Preserve, an exquisite residential community that offers its residents an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. Located just moments away from the breathtaking Vanderbilt Beach, the Grand Preserve immerses its residents in an environment of natural beauty, with stunning sunsets, rolling waves, and stretches of pristine sands that seem to stretch out to infinity. With unrivaled amenities and world-class services, the Grand Preserve is the ideal place for those who appreciate the finer things in life and expect nothing but the best. Whether you are a sunseeker, a beachcomber, or a nature lover, the Grand Preserve is the ultimate destination for those who want to experience the very best of Florida living.
Home Builders in Naples Florida For 30+ Years
Naples, Florida has long been a destination for those seeking luxury living in paradise. And when it comes to finding the perfect home to fit that lifestyle, you want to trust the experts – and that's where home builders with decades of experience come in. With over 30 years of building homes in Naples, Signal House has an unmatched knowledge of the local real estate market and a keen eye for design that perfectly complements the Florida lifestyle. From breathtaking waterfront properties to custom-built estates, we have the experience and expertise to bring your dream home to life. So why settle for a cookie-cutter house when you can have a custom-built masterpiece in the Sunshine State?
Explore more about this transformative project and take a guided video tour on our website. Click here for an immersive experience you won't want to pass up: https://www.signalhousebuilders.com/portfolio/grand-preserve-condo-remodel

This MossCreek custom designed family retreat features several historically authentic and preserved log cabins that were used as the basis for the design of several individual homes. MossCreek worked closely with the client to develop unique new structures with period-correct details from a remarkable collection of antique homes, all of which were disassembled, moved, and then reassembled at the project site. This project is an excellent example of MossCreek's ability to incorporate the past in to a new home for the ages. Photo by Erwin Loveland

Klopf Architecture and Jesse Ososki Art remodeled an existing Eichler atrium home into a brighter, more open, and more functional version of its original self.
The goals were to preserve the Eichler look and feel without the need to strictly adhere to it. The scope of work included re-configuring the master bedroom/bath, the kitchen, and the hall bath/laundry area, as well as updating interior finishes throughout to be more sophisticated.
The owners are detail-oriented and were very involved in the design process, down to the selection of lighting controls and stainless steel faceplates.Their design aesthetic leans toward the Scandinavian — light and bright, with simple straight lines and pure geometric shapes.
The finish flooring is large porcelain tile (24” x 24”) in a neutral grey tone, providing a uniform backdrop against which other materials can stand out. The same tile continues into the shower floor (with a different finish texture for slip-resistance) and up the shower/tub walls (in a smaller size). Heath Classic Field ceramic tile in Modern Blue was used sparingly, to add color at the hall bath vanity backsplash and at the shampoo niches in both bathrooms. Back-painted soda glass in pale blue to match the Heath tile was used at the kitchen backsplash. This same accent color was also used at the front entry atrium door. Kitchen cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and light fixtures are all white, making the kitchen feel more airy and light. Countertops are Caesarstone Blizzard.
The owners chose to keep some of the original Eichler elements: the concrete masonry fireplace; the stained tongue-and-groove redwood ceiling decking; and the luan wall paneling. The luan paneling was lightly sanded, cleaned, and re-stained. The owners also kept an added element that was installed by a previous owner: sliding shoji panels at all bedroom windows and sliding glass doors, for both privacy and sun control. Grooves were cut into the new tile flooring for the shoji panels to slide in, creating a more integrated look. Walnut was used to add warmth and contrast at the kitchen bar top and niche, the bathroom vanities, and the window sill/ledge under the kitchen window.
This Burlingame Eichler Remodel is a 2,121 sf, 4 bedroom/2 bath home located in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane and Yegvenia Torres Zavala
Contractor: Jesse Ososki Art
Structural Engineer: Emmanuel Pun
Photography ©2018 Mariko Reed
Location: Burlingame, CA
Year completed: 2017

Mid-Century Modern Restoration
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized 1950s terrazzo floor, white floor and exposed beam eat-in kitchen idea in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, quartz backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and white countertops
Eat-in kitchen - mid-sized 1950s terrazzo floor, white floor and exposed beam eat-in kitchen idea in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, brown cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, quartz backsplash, paneled appliances, an island and white countertops

There’s something truly special about mid-century homes—the craftsmanship, the character, and the little surprises tucked into every corner. As mid-century enthusiasts ourselves, we were thrilled when a client asked us to help redesign their grandmother’s house, blending nostalgia with a fresh, modern perspective. The homeowners envisioned a French Provincial-inspired style while preserving the soul of the home. We introduced modern amenities like a full-scale kitchen, mudroom, and open-concept great room while carefully maintaining cherished details—original hallway built-ins, foyer pocket doors, and other vintage touches that carry the home’s history forward. The best compliment? When family remarked, “It feels like you, with an essence of Grandma, but it’s not Grandma’s house anymore.” That perfect balance of honoring the past while celebrating the future is what makes Juniper Lane so special.

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 cozy living room area features a wood-burning stove, as well as a comfortable upholstered lounge chair and an elegant antique writing desk.
WKD’s experience in historic preservation and antique curation restored this gentleman’s farm into a casual, comfortable, livable home for the next chapter in this couple’s lives.
The project included a new family entrance and mud room, new powder room, and opening up some of the rooms for better circulation. While WKD curated the client’s existing collection of art and antiques, refurbishing where necessary, new furnishings were also added to give the home a new lease on life.
Working with older homes, and historic homes, is one of Wilson Kelsey Design’s specialties.
This project was featured on the cover of Design New England's September/October 2013 issue. Read the full article at: http://wilsonkelseydesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Heritage-Restored1.pdf
It was also featured in the Sept. issue of Old House Journal, 2016 - article is at http://wilsonkelseydesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/2016-09-OHJ.pdf
Photo by Michael Lee

Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room.
Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials.
Design Objectives:
Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space.
Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household.
Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint.
Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners.
Design Challenges:
Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy.
Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate.
Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations.
Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality.
Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian.
Design Solutions:
Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station.
Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities.
Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance.
Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center.
Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design.
The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home.
Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.

This MossCreek custom designed family retreat features several historically authentic and preserved log cabins that were used as the basis for the design of several individual homes. MossCreek worked closely with the client to develop unique new structures with period-correct details from a remarkable collection of antique homes, all of which were disassembled, moved, and then reassembled at the project site. This project is an excellent example of MossCreek's ability to incorporate the past in to a new home for the ages. Photo by Erwin Loveland

Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room.
Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials.
Design Objectives:
Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space.
Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household.
Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint.
Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners.
Design Challenges:
Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy.
Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate.
Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations.
Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality.
Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian.
Design Solutions:
Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station.
Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities.
Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance.
Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center.
Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design.
The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home.
Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.

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 MossCreek custom designed family retreat features several historically authentic and preserved log cabins that were used as the basis for the design of several individual homes. MossCreek worked closely with the client to develop unique new structures with period-correct details from a remarkable collection of antique homes, all of which were disassembled, moved, and then reassembled at the project site. This project is an excellent example of MossCreek's ability to incorporate the past in to a new home for the ages. Photo by Erwin Loveland

Some rooms never quite find their purpose. That was the case with this space, which had gradually become a combination home office, pantry overflow area, pet zone, and general catch-all for daily life. While it offered plenty of square footage, it wasn’t helping the homeowners stay organized, and valuable storage was scattered between an overcrowded pantry closet and various pieces of furniture throughout the room.
Having previously partnered with Drury Design on a kitchen remodel, these homeowners once again turned to Senior Designer Samantha Schoell to help them rethink how their home could better support the way they actually live. What began as a conversation about adding some cabinetry quickly evolved into a comprehensive storage solution — one designed to accommodate everything from groceries and sports equipment to pet supplies and everyday household essentials.
Design Objectives:
Create Organization: Consolidate pantry overflow, household supplies, and everyday essentials into a single, highly functional space.
Support Family Life: Provide dedicated storage for coats, bags, sports equipment, and the routines of an active household.
Accommodate Pets: Incorporate thoughtful features for the family’s dogs while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
Maximize Existing Space: Transform an underutilized room without expanding the home’s footprint.
Maintain Flexibility: Preserve the room’s long-term versatility and appeal for future homeowners.
Design Challenges:
Multiple Functions: The room was being used simultaneously as a home office, pantry, storage area, and pet space without a cohesive organizational strategy.
Insufficient Pantry Storage: The nearby pantry closet had become overcrowded and difficult to navigate.
Visual Clutter: Everyday items, pet supplies, and household necessities lacked dedicated storage locations.
Unused Potential: Despite its generous size, the room was not contributing meaningfully to the home’s overall functionality.
Balancing Practicality and Style: The homeowners wanted substantial storage without creating a space that felt overly utilitarian.
Design Solutions:
Purpose-Built Storage Plan: Custom cabinetry was designed to support multiple functions within a unified storage system, allowing the room to serve as a mudroom, pantry extension, household hub, and pet station.
Expanded Pantry Capacity: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a secondary refrigerator, and extensive drawer storage dramatically increased food storage and organization capabilities.
Hidden Organization: Closed cabinetry conceals household items, sports gear, pet supplies, and everyday clutter, creating a calm and orderly appearance.
Full-Room Transformation: Rather than simply adding cabinets to one wall, the design reimagined the entire room, utilizing its footprint to create a true family command center.
Furniture-Inspired Cabinetry: Warm wood finishes, decorative hardware, open display shelving, and thoughtful detailing elevate the room beyond pure utility, helping it feel like a natural extension of the home’s design.
The most successful remodeling projects often solve problems homeowners have simply learned to live with. In this case, a room that once served several purposes — but excelled at none — was transformed into one of the hardest-working spaces in the home.
Today, groceries, pet supplies, seasonal gear, household essentials, and daily routines all have a designated place. Even the family’s dogs were thoughtfully considered, with a built-in resting area integrated into the cabinetry. The result is a room that feels remarkably organized despite supporting countless everyday activities — a reflection of how thoughtful design can bring clarity, efficiency, and calm to the busiest parts of family life.
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