Convert a small space to a polished eye-catching and functional home office. We used white painted maple wood veneers and solid wood painted doors, moldings and trims to give the space a formal style. This home office boasts under cabinet LED lighting, doors with glass inserts, upper cabinets surrounded by wrap around shelving for books and accent pieces and sturdy maple wood drawers for storing office supplies or filing important documents.

Front of house view shows pivot entry door, metal spillway water feature, roof deck balcony and grand window into living room. Exterior panels are black Swiss Pearl cement board and "heavy dash" stucco finish.

Succulents, grasses and low-water shrubs with vivid foliage give this coastal garden a rich, textured look with minimal maintenance. Exterior colors and furniture selection by Julie McMahon. Photos by Daniel Bosler

This project was designed by Mikal Otten. Interior design by Beth Armijo (www.armijodesigngroup.com). Photography by Emily Minton Redfield.
Example of a transitional formal living room design in Denver with a standard fireplace

Lincoln Farmhouse LEED-H Platinum, Net-Positive Energy OVERVIEW. This LEED Platinum certified modern farmhouse ties into the cultural landscape of Lincoln, Massachusetts - a town known for its rich history, farming traditions, conservation efforts, and visionary architecture. The goal was to design and build a new single family home on 1.8 acres that respects the neighborhood’s agrarian roots, produces more energy than it consumes, and provides the family with flexible spaces to live-play-work-entertain. The resulting 2,800 SF home is proof that families do not need to compromise on style, space or comfort in a highly energy-efficient and healthy home. CONNECTION TO NATURE. The attached garage is ubiquitous in new construction in New England’s cold climate. This home’s barn-inspired garage is intentionally detached from the main dwelling. A covered walkway connects the two structures, creating an intentional connection with the outdoors between auto and home. FUNCTIONAL FLEXIBILITY. With a modest footprint, each space must serve a specific use, but also be flexible for atypical scenarios. The Mudroom serves everyday use for the couple and their children, but is also easy to tidy up to receive guests, eliminating the need for two entries found in most homes. A workspace is conveniently located off the mudroom; it looks out on to the back yard to supervise the children and can be closed off with a sliding door when not in use. The Away Room opens up to the Living Room for everyday use; it can be closed off with its oversized pocket door for secondary use as a guest bedroom with en suite bath. NET POSITIVE ENERGY. The all-electric home consumes 70% less energy than a code-built house, and with measured energy data produces 48% more energy annually than it consumes, making it a 'net positive' home. Thick walls and roofs lack thermal bridging, windows are high performance, triple-glazed, and a continuous air barrier yields minimal leakage (0.27ACH50) making the home among the tightest in the US. Systems include an air source heat pump, an energy recovery ventilator, and a 13.1kW photovoltaic system to offset consumption and support future electric cars. ACTUAL PERFORMANCE. -6.3 kBtu/sf/yr Energy Use Intensity (Actual monitored project data reported for the firm’s 2016 AIA 2030 Commitment. Average single family home is 52.0 kBtu/sf/yr.) o 10,900 kwh total consumption (8.5 kbtu/ft2 EUI) o 16,200 kwh total production o 5,300 kwh net surplus, equivalent to 15,000-25,000 electric car miles per year. 48% net positive. WATER EFFICIENCY. Plumbing fixtures and water closets consume a mere 60% of the federal standard, while high efficiency appliances such as the dishwasher and clothes washer also reduce consumption rates. FOOD PRODUCTION. After clearing all invasive species, apple, pear, peach and cherry trees were planted. Future plans include blueberry, raspberry and strawberry bushes, along with raised beds for vegetable gardening. The house also offers a below ground root cellar, built outside the home's thermal envelope, to gain the passive benefit of long term energy-free food storage. RESILIENCY. The home's ability to weather unforeseen challenges is predictable - it will fare well. The super-insulated envelope means during a winter storm with power outage, heat loss will be slow - taking days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. During normal conditions, reduced energy consumption plus energy production means shelter from the burden of utility costs. Surplus production can power electric cars & appliances. The home exceeds snow & wind structural requirements, plus far surpasses standard construction for long term durability planning. ARCHITECT: ZeroEnergy Design http://zeroenergy.com/lincoln-farmhouse CONTRACTOR: Thoughtforms http://thoughtforms-corp.com/ PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuck Choi http://www.chuckchoi.com/

Lincoln Farmhouse LEED-H Platinum, Net-Positive Energy OVERVIEW. This LEED Platinum certified modern farmhouse ties into the cultural landscape of Lincoln, Massachusetts - a town known for its rich history, farming traditions, conservation efforts, and visionary architecture. The goal was to design and build a new single family home on 1.8 acres that respects the neighborhood’s agrarian roots, produces more energy than it consumes, and provides the family with flexible spaces to live-play-work-entertain. The resulting 2,800 SF home is proof that families do not need to compromise on style, space or comfort in a highly energy-efficient and healthy home. CONNECTION TO NATURE. The attached garage is ubiquitous in new construction in New England’s cold climate. This home’s barn-inspired garage is intentionally detached from the main dwelling. A covered walkway connects the two structures, creating an intentional connection with the outdoors between auto and home. FUNCTIONAL FLEXIBILITY. With a modest footprint, each space must serve a specific use, but also be flexible for atypical scenarios. The Mudroom serves everyday use for the couple and their children, but is also easy to tidy up to receive guests, eliminating the need for two entries found in most homes. A workspace is conveniently located off the mudroom; it looks out on to the back yard to supervise the children and can be closed off with a sliding door when not in use. The Away Room opens up to the Living Room for everyday use; it can be closed off with its oversized pocket door for secondary use as a guest bedroom with en suite bath. NET POSITIVE ENERGY. The all-electric home consumes 70% less energy than a code-built house, and with measured energy data produces 48% more energy annually than it consumes, making it a 'net positive' home. Thick walls and roofs lack thermal bridging, windows are high performance, triple-glazed, and a continuous air barrier yields minimal leakage (0.27ACH50) making the home among the tightest in the US. Systems include an air source heat pump, an energy recovery ventilator, and a 13.1kW photovoltaic system to offset consumption and support future electric cars. ACTUAL PERFORMANCE. -6.3 kBtu/sf/yr Energy Use Intensity (Actual monitored project data reported for the firm’s 2016 AIA 2030 Commitment. Average single family home is 52.0 kBtu/sf/yr.) o 10,900 kwh total consumption (8.5 kbtu/ft2 EUI) o 16,200 kwh total production o 5,300 kwh net surplus, equivalent to 15,000-25,000 electric car miles per year. 48% net positive. WATER EFFICIENCY. Plumbing fixtures and water closets consume a mere 60% of the federal standard, while high efficiency appliances such as the dishwasher and clothes washer also reduce consumption rates. FOOD PRODUCTION. After clearing all invasive species, apple, pear, peach and cherry trees were planted. Future plans include blueberry, raspberry and strawberry bushes, along with raised beds for vegetable gardening. The house also offers a below ground root cellar, built outside the home's thermal envelope, to gain the passive benefit of long term energy-free food storage. RESILIENCY. The home's ability to weather unforeseen challenges is predictable - it will fare well. The super-insulated envelope means during a winter storm with power outage, heat loss will be slow - taking days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. During normal conditions, reduced energy consumption plus energy production means shelter from the burden of utility costs. Surplus production can power electric cars & appliances. The home exceeds snow & wind structural requirements, plus far surpasses standard construction for long term durability planning. ARCHITECT: ZeroEnergy Design http://zeroenergy.com/lincoln-farmhouse CONTRACTOR: Thoughtforms http://thoughtforms-corp.com/ PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuck Choi http://www.chuckchoi.com/

Fifty years ago, a sculptor, Jean Neufeld, moved into a new home at 40 South Bellaire Street in Hilltop. The home, designed by a noted passive solar Denver architect, was both her house and her studio. Today the home is a piece of sculpture – a testament to the original architect’s artistry; and amid the towering, new, custom homes of Hilltop, is a reminder that small things can be highly prized. The ‘U’ shaped, 2100 SF existing house was designed to focus on a south facing courtyard. When recently purchased by the new owners, it still had its original red metal kitchen cabinets, birch cabinetry, shoji screen walls, and an earth toned palette of materials and colors. Much of the original owners’ furniture was sold with the house to the new owners, a young couple with a passion for collecting contemporary art and mid-century modern era furniture. The original architect designed a house that speaks of economic stewardship, environmental quality, easy living and simple beauty. Our remodel and renovation extends on these intentions. Ultimately, the goal was finding the right balance between old and new by recognizing the inherent qualities in a house that quietly existed in the midst of a neighborhood that has lost sight of its heritage. Photo - Frank Ooms

Pool - large contemporary pool idea in Tampa

This Sarasota West of Trail coastal-inspired residence in Granada Park sold to a couple that were downsizing from a waterfront home on Siesta Key. Granada Park is located in the Granada neighborhood of Sarasota, with freestanding residences built in a townhome style, just down the street from the Field Club, of which they are members. The Buttonwood, like all the homes in the gated enclave of Granada Park, offer the leisure of a maintenance-free lifestyle. The Buttonwood has an expansive 3,342 sq. ft. and one of the highest walkability scores of any gated community in Sarasota. Walk/bike to nearby shopping and dining, or just a quick drive to Siesta Key Beach or downtown Sarasota. Custom-built by MGB Fine Custom Homes, this home blends traditional Florida architecture with the latest building innovations. High ceilings, wood floors, solid-core doors, solid-wood cabinetry, LED lighting, gourmet kitchen, wide hallways, large bedrooms and sumptuous baths clearly show a respect for quality construction meant to stand the test of time. Green certification by the Florida Green Building Coalition and an Emerald Certification (the highest rating given) by the National Green Building Standard ensure energy efficiency, healthy indoor air, enhanced comfort and reduced utility costs. Smart phone home connectivity provides controls for lighting, data communication, security and sound system. Gatherings large and small are pure pleasure in the outdoor great room on the second floor with grilling kitchen, fireplace and media connections for wall-mounted TV. Downstairs, the open living area combines the kitchen, dining room and great room. The private master retreat has two walk-in closets and en-suite bath with dual vanity and oversize curbless shower. Three additional bedrooms are on the second floor with en-suite baths, along with a library and morning bar. Other features include standing-height conditioned storage room in attic; impact-resistant, EnergyStar windows and doors; and the floor plan is elevator-ready.

Tuscan entryway photo in Tampa with beige walls and a dark wood front door

Example of a huge cottage backyard patio design in Denver with a pergola

Lincoln Farmhouse LEED-H Platinum, Net-Positive Energy OVERVIEW. This LEED Platinum certified modern farmhouse ties into the cultural landscape of Lincoln, Massachusetts - a town known for its rich history, farming traditions, conservation efforts, and visionary architecture. The goal was to design and build a new single family home on 1.8 acres that respects the neighborhood’s agrarian roots, produces more energy than it consumes, and provides the family with flexible spaces to live-play-work-entertain. The resulting 2,800 SF home is proof that families do not need to compromise on style, space or comfort in a highly energy-efficient and healthy home. CONNECTION TO NATURE. The attached garage is ubiquitous in new construction in New England’s cold climate. This home’s barn-inspired garage is intentionally detached from the main dwelling. A covered walkway connects the two structures, creating an intentional connection with the outdoors between auto and home. FUNCTIONAL FLEXIBILITY. With a modest footprint, each space must serve a specific use, but also be flexible for atypical scenarios. The Mudroom serves everyday use for the couple and their children, but is also easy to tidy up to receive guests, eliminating the need for two entries found in most homes. A workspace is conveniently located off the mudroom; it looks out on to the back yard to supervise the children and can be closed off with a sliding door when not in use. The Away Room opens up to the Living Room for everyday use; it can be closed off with its oversized pocket door for secondary use as a guest bedroom with en suite bath. NET POSITIVE ENERGY. The all-electric home consumes 70% less energy than a code-built house, and with measured energy data produces 48% more energy annually than it consumes, making it a 'net positive' home. Thick walls and roofs lack thermal bridging, windows are high performance, triple-glazed, and a continuous air barrier yields minimal leakage (0.27ACH50) making the home among the tightest in the US. Systems include an air source heat pump, an energy recovery ventilator, and a 13.1kW photovoltaic system to offset consumption and support future electric cars. ACTUAL PERFORMANCE. -6.3 kBtu/sf/yr Energy Use Intensity (Actual monitored project data reported for the firm’s 2016 AIA 2030 Commitment. Average single family home is 52.0 kBtu/sf/yr.) o 10,900 kwh total consumption (8.5 kbtu/ft2 EUI) o 16,200 kwh total production o 5,300 kwh net surplus, equivalent to 15,000-25,000 electric car miles per year. 48% net positive. WATER EFFICIENCY. Plumbing fixtures and water closets consume a mere 60% of the federal standard, while high efficiency appliances such as the dishwasher and clothes washer also reduce consumption rates. FOOD PRODUCTION. After clearing all invasive species, apple, pear, peach and cherry trees were planted. Future plans include blueberry, raspberry and strawberry bushes, along with raised beds for vegetable gardening. The house also offers a below ground root cellar, built outside the home's thermal envelope, to gain the passive benefit of long term energy-free food storage. RESILIENCY. The home's ability to weather unforeseen challenges is predictable - it will fare well. The super-insulated envelope means during a winter storm with power outage, heat loss will be slow - taking days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. During normal conditions, reduced energy consumption plus energy production means shelter from the burden of utility costs. Surplus production can power electric cars & appliances. The home exceeds snow & wind structural requirements, plus far surpasses standard construction for long term durability planning. ARCHITECT: ZeroEnergy Design http://zeroenergy.com/lincoln-farmhouse CONTRACTOR: Thoughtforms http://thoughtforms-corp.com/ PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuck Choi http://www.chuckchoi.com/

West of Trail coastal-inspired residence in Granada Park. Located between North Siesta Key and Oyster Bay, this home is designed with a contemporary coastal look that embraces pleasing proportions, uncluttered spaces and natural materials. The Hibiscus, like all the homes in the gated enclave of Granada Park, is designed to maximize the maintenance-free lifestyle. Walk/bike to nearby shopping and dining, or just a quick drive Siesta Key Beach or downtown Sarasota. Custom-built by MGB Fine Custom Homes, this home blends traditional coastal architecture with the latest building innovations, green standards and smart home technology. High ceilings, wood floors, solid-core doors, solid-wood cabinetry, LED lighting, high-end kitchen, wide hallways, large bedrooms and sumptuous baths clearly show a respect for quality construction meant to stand the test of time. Green certification ensures energy efficiency, healthy indoor air, enhanced comfort and reduced utility costs. Smartphone home connectivity provides controls for lighting, data communication and security. Fortified for safer living, the well-designed floor plan features 2,464 square feet living area with 3 bedrooms, bonus room and 3.5 baths. The 20x20 outdoor great room on the second floor has grilling kitchen, fireplace and wall-mounted TV. Downstairs, the open living area combines the kitchen, dining room and great room. Other features include conditioned, standing-height storage room in the attic; impact-resistant, EnergyStar windows and doors; and the floor plan is elevator-ready.

Watch George to the Rescue as he provides families with much needed home renovations. See the episode from November 2nd to view how host, George Oliphant, interior designer, Amre Griffin, and installation team, Tailored Living, use a Murphy DeskBed for this home renovation project. NBC & George to the Rescue

West of Trail coastal-inspired residence in Granada Park. Located between North Siesta Key and Oyster Bay, this home is designed with a contemporary coastal look that embraces pleasing proportions, uncluttered spaces and natural materials. The Hibiscus, like all the homes in the gated enclave of Granada Park, is designed to maximize the maintenance-free lifestyle. Walk/bike to nearby shopping and dining, or just a quick drive Siesta Key Beach or downtown Sarasota. Custom-built by MGB Fine Custom Homes, this home blends traditional coastal architecture with the latest building innovations, green standards and smart home technology. High ceilings, wood floors, solid-core doors, solid-wood cabinetry, LED lighting, high-end kitchen, wide hallways, large bedrooms and sumptuous baths clearly show a respect for quality construction meant to stand the test of time. Green certification ensures energy efficiency, healthy indoor air, enhanced comfort and reduced utility costs. Smartphone home connectivity provides controls for lighting, data communication and security. Fortified for safer living, the well-designed floor plan features 2,464 square feet living area with 3 bedrooms, bonus room and 3.5 baths. The 20x20 outdoor great room on the second floor has grilling kitchen, fireplace and wall-mounted TV. Downstairs, the open living area combines the kitchen, dining room and great room. Other features include conditioned, standing-height storage room in the attic; impact-resistant, EnergyStar windows and doors; and the floor plan is elevator-ready.

Gregg Willett Photography (www.greggwillettphotography.com)
Enclosed kitchen - huge contemporary l-shaped travertine floor enclosed kitchen idea in Atlanta with a double-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, quartz countertops, two islands and stainless steel appliances

Watch George to the Rescue as he provides families with much needed home renovations. See the episode from November 2nd to view how host, George Oliphant, interior designer, Amre Griffin, and installation team, Tailored Living, use a Murphy DeskBed for this home renovation project. NBC & George to the Rescue

Watch George to the Rescue as he provides families with much needed home renovations. See the episode from November 2nd to view how host, George Oliphant, interior designer, Amre Griffin, and installation team, Tailored Living, use a Murphy DeskBed for this home renovation project. NBC & George to the Rescue

Watch George to the Rescue as he provides families with much needed home renovations. See the episode from November 2nd to view how host, George Oliphant, interior designer, Amre Griffin, and installation team, Tailored Living, use a Murphy DeskBed for this home renovation project. NBC & George to the Rescue