Search results for "Reading experience" in Home Design Ideas

The path and gate take you from the pool area to the lush side yard.
Design by Ben Bowen of Ross NW Watergardens
Inspiration for a large zen backyard home design remodel in Portland
Inspiration for a large zen backyard home design remodel in Portland

This residence was a complete gut renovation of a 4-story row house in Park Slope, and included a new rear extension and penthouse addition. The owners wished to create a warm, family home using a modern language that would act as a clean canvas to feature rich textiles and items from their world travels. As with most Brooklyn row houses, the existing house suffered from a lack of natural light and connection to exterior spaces, an issue that Principal Brendan Coburn is acutely aware of from his experience re-imagining historic structures in the New York area. The resulting architecture is designed around moments featuring natural light and views to the exterior, of both the private garden and the sky, throughout the house, and a stripped-down language of detailing and finishes allows for the concept of the modern-natural to shine.
Upon entering the home, the kitchen and dining space draw you in with views beyond through the large glazed opening at the rear of the house. An extension was built to allow for a large sunken living room that provides a family gathering space connected to the kitchen and dining room, but remains distinctly separate, with a strong visual connection to the rear garden. The open sculptural stair tower was designed to function like that of a traditional row house stair, but with a smaller footprint. By extending it up past the original roof level into the new penthouse, the stair becomes an atmospheric shaft for the spaces surrounding the core. All types of weather – sunshine, rain, lightning, can be sensed throughout the home through this unifying vertical environment. The stair space also strives to foster family communication, making open living spaces visible between floors. At the upper-most level, a free-form bench sits suspended over the stair, just by the new roof deck, which provides at-ease entertaining. Oak was used throughout the home as a unifying material element. As one travels upwards within the house, the oak finishes are bleached to further degrees as a nod to how light enters the home.
The owners worked with CWB to add their own personality to the project. The meter of a white oak and blackened steel stair screen was designed by the family to read “I love you” in Morse Code, and tile was selected throughout to reference places that hold special significance to the family. To support the owners’ comfort, the architectural design engages passive house technologies to reduce energy use, while increasing air quality within the home – a strategy which aims to respect the environment while providing a refuge from the harsh elements of urban living.
This project was published by Wendy Goodman as her Space of the Week, part of New York Magazine’s Design Hunting on The Cut.
Photography by Kevin Kunstadt

When designing this kitchen, the old-growth oak tree was top of mind as the view to capture out the kitchen sink window. Even the window coverings were selected to complement and enhance the natural beauty just beyond. Generous counter space either side of the sink allow for work and clean up areas without feeling pinched.
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The property is one of the original farm houses located on the main street of a small town. It has been in the family for many years and our client just inherited the property. They were trying to have balance of preserving the old while realizing modern day living has its benefits too. The house had a large addition added using mostly old style materials, but designed with function and modern day luxuries. Our goal was to carry that theme to the outside.
Our first problem we had to address was how to transition between the first floor elevation changes. The lower room was the husband’s office. He stated in the future he may have clients over and it would be nice to have an area to sit outside. The wife’s main concern was to renew the four corner garden. She also felt it was very important to be able to see it from the kitchen area. Finally there was an old wishing well stuck right outside the kitchen. They both felt it would be neat to be able to incorporate this in some how. They wanted a patio area with a built in grill to accommodate there family and friends. They also wanted to keep a large play area for the kids.
We were able to pull this off successfully. We addressed the first issue by having a small lower level flagstone area. This area is large enough for 1 to 2 people to sit comfortably. It also provides a transition from his office to the larger patio area. We installed a simple small gravel sitting area opposite of the main patio. This provides our client a secluded place to relax or do business. Mrs.... told me she is amazed how much her and her husband enjoys this area. It is so peaceful looking at the small creek over a glass of wine.
We built a natural limestone retaining wall to create the patio terrace. The stone was chosen to extend the houses architectural elements into the landscape. Irregular broken flagstone was used to give it a more casual feel. We installed three Serviceberries into the patio terrace to replace some trees that were taken down during the remodeling. She was very concern that they would block the view of the four corner garden. We new they were crucial to nestle in the terrace, so we placed them for a couple days for her to decide. Fortunately she agreed they not only kept the view open, but helped frame the garden.
The four corner garden was designed to be viewed from afar and experienced up close. We wanted the space to have some formal structure while keeping with the casual farm house feel. Another natural limestone retaining wall was created. This leveled the garden terrace and helped associate it with the rest of the property. The four corner garden is nestled into the existing woods edge. This provides three distinct experiences to entering the garden; a more formal from the driveway, an open feel from the lower lawn, and a more natural / casual experience from the wooded area. The Plymouth brown gravel was used for the center of the garden. This helped highlight the stone post that was found during construction. The gravel also brings the sense of sound into the garden space. Lamb’s ear was chosen as a fun way to get kids interest in horticulture.
The balance of using the new to create the old feel is what makes this project a success. The property has already hosted a local historical society event and won an award for its preservation efforts. When Mrs.... can’t find her husband, she knows he is either reading the newspaper by the grill or resting in the hammock along the wood’s path.

Having the right acoustical treatments and furniture can make a big difference in the sound, like in this dedicated home media room. We installed custom acoustical panels to create the best sound experience.

Why Adjust To Your Bed When It Can Adjust To You? Compliment your mattress purchase with an adjustable foundation for maximum comfort and a perfect night's sleep.
With every feature you could want in an adjustable bed, such as a whisper quiet lift system, 3 massage wave modes, anti-snore feature, and even an iPad app; your Plushbeds adjustable bed will take your sleep experience to a whole new level of luxury.
Now you can have complete control of the way you lay or sleep by the 'tuning' of your bed position. Whether you are watching TV, reading a book, working on a laptop, or sleeping, there is a position that will best suit your needs. The health benefits of sleeping on an adjustable bed are endless.
The Plushbeds™ adjustable bed is not only comfortable to sleep on; it is beautifully designed and crafted. The frame is powder coated for one of the most durable and finely finished bed frames on the market. Our adjustable bed frame offers removable legs that do not require the use of tools to assemble. Our beds, without the legs attached, are able to function on the floor or in a bed frame with slats. The fit and finish of our adjustable bed looks like an ordinary bed frame or box spring, making it your own secret that it is, in fact, an adjustable unit. The adjustable bed along with a latex mattress is the perfect combination!
Plushbeds Adjustable Mattress Foundation comes in the following sizes:
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Twin XL (38" x 80") - $1,000
Full (54" x 75") - $1,400
Queen (60" x 80") - $1,500
King (76" x 80") - $2,000
Cal King (72" x 84") - $2,000
Split King (2) Twin XL - $2,000

Within its 35m² of functional space, divided into an anteroom and a bathroom, Fernanda crafted a sunroom that intentionally brings together a vast array of elements: native Atlantic Forest species in a biophilic and naturalistic arrangement, a hand-painted chinoiserie adorning the walls, classic jequitibá wood furniture, refined retro-inspired tapestries, wallpapers, wooden beams reminiscent of country homes, ceramic lighting fixtures, and vases created exclusively for the project. This composition clearly expresses the richness of detail in her work and the depth of her research.
Driven by a desire to offer visitors a bucolic, fresh, and ethereal experience, landscaping was a central element of the project. Regarding the furniture, classic, rounded, lightweight, and intricately crafted forms were a prerequisite. Thus, the choice fell on pieces from Paschoal Bianco, crafted individually by master carpenters who are true artists in wood carving. Opting for the natural tone of jequitibá wood, the armchairs, stool, and side tables transport visitors to the grand residences and châteaus of rural France. To soften the design, natural fibers from Biasá were incorporated into the sofa, the Paris rattan chair, and a round rug, all displayed in an area the designer dubbed “the poetry corner.”
This corner, featuring a classic writing desk, a porcelain coffee cup, eucalyptus branches, books, and a note card beside a large window dressed with a dramatic, meticulously crafted curtain by A Morada, could only be called “the poetry corner.” Here, the public is invited to sit, contemplate the surrounding landscape, read, and write.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Gorgeous custom rental cabins built for the Sandpiper Resort in Harrison Mills, BC. Some key features include timber frame, quality Woodtone siding, and interior design finishes to create a luxury cabin experience. Photo by Brooklyn D Photography

When the sun begins to set and your space glows in warm, ambient lighting, this isn’t just an outdoor cover; It’s the heart of your evening retreat.
The Azenco R-BLADE™ is a fully adjustable louvered roof system built to transform patios into personalized havens. Engineered with cutting-edge aluminum construction and an internal drainage system, this structure provides total control over light, airflow, and weather; All while maintaining a sleek, modern design.
What sets this system apart is its ability to integrate lighting, fans, heaters, and even smart sensors. As seen in this project, the clean architectural lines and subtle under-louver LED lighting create a luxurious, resort-like experience at home. Whether you’re reading with a breeze overhead or hosting an intimate dinner by the pool, the system adapts to your needs and elevates your space year-round.
Unlike cheaper pergolas that fade, rust, or warp with time, the Azenco R-BLADE™ is manufactured in the USA using powder-coated, corrosion-resistant aluminum for unmatched longevity and durability.
This isn’t just an outdoor upgrade, it’s a smart investment in the way you live and entertain.
Let’s design a space that works beautifully, rain or shine.
Schedule your design consultation today: 516-522-8249

The property is one of the original farm houses located on the main street of a small town. It has been in the family for many years and our client just inherited the property. They were trying to have balance of preserving the old while realizing modern day living has its benefits too. The house had a large addition added using mostly old style materials, but designed with function and modern day luxuries. Our goal was to carry that theme to the outside.
Our first problem we had to address was how to transition between the first floor elevation changes. The lower room was the husband’s office. He stated in the future he may have clients over and it would be nice to have an area to sit outside. The wife’s main concern was to renew the four corner garden. She also felt it was very important to be able to see it from the kitchen area. Finally there was an old wishing well stuck right outside the kitchen. They both felt it would be neat to be able to incorporate this in some how. They wanted a patio area with a built in grill to accommodate there family and friends. They also wanted to keep a large play area for the kids.
We were able to pull this off successfully. We addressed the first issue by having a small lower level flagstone area. This area is large enough for 1 to 2 people to sit comfortably. It also provides a transition from his office to the larger patio area. We installed a simple small gravel sitting area opposite of the main patio. This provides our client a secluded place to relax or do business. Mrs.... told me she is amazed how much her and her husband enjoys this area. It is so peaceful looking at the small creek over a glass of wine.
We built a natural limestone retaining wall to create the patio terrace. The stone was chosen to extend the houses architectural elements into the landscape. Irregular broken flagstone was used to give it a more casual feel. We installed three Serviceberries into the patio terrace to replace some trees that were taken down during the remodeling. She was very concern that they would block the view of the four corner garden. We new they were crucial to nestle in the terrace, so we placed them for a couple days for her to decide. Fortunately she agreed they not only kept the view open, but helped frame the garden.
The four corner garden was designed to be viewed from afar and experienced up close. We wanted the space to have some formal structure while keeping with the casual farm house feel. Another natural limestone retaining wall was created. This leveled the garden terrace and helped associate it with the rest of the property. The four corner garden is nestled into the existing woods edge. This provides three distinct experiences to entering the garden; a more formal from the driveway, an open feel from the lower lawn, and a more natural / casual experience from the wooded area. The Plymouth brown gravel was used for the center of the garden. This helped highlight the stone post that was found during construction. The gravel also brings the sense of sound into the garden space. Lamb’s ear was chosen as a fun way to get kids interest in horticulture.
The balance of using the new to create the old feel is what makes this project a success. The property has already hosted a local historical society event and won an award for its preservation efforts. When Mrs.... can’t find her husband, she knows he is either reading the newspaper by the grill or resting in the hammock along the wood’s path.

Within its 35m² of functional space, divided into an anteroom and a bathroom, Fernanda crafted a sunroom that intentionally brings together a vast array of elements: native Atlantic Forest species in a biophilic and naturalistic arrangement, a hand-painted chinoiserie adorning the walls, classic jequitibá wood furniture, refined retro-inspired tapestries, wallpapers, wooden beams reminiscent of country homes, ceramic lighting fixtures, and vases created exclusively for the project. This composition clearly expresses the richness of detail in her work and the depth of her research.
Driven by a desire to offer visitors a bucolic, fresh, and ethereal experience, landscaping was a central element of the project. Regarding the furniture, classic, rounded, lightweight, and intricately crafted forms were a prerequisite. Thus, the choice fell on pieces from Paschoal Bianco, crafted individually by master carpenters who are true artists in wood carving. Opting for the natural tone of jequitibá wood, the armchairs, stool, and side tables transport visitors to the grand residences and châteaus of rural France. To soften the design, natural fibers from Biasá were incorporated into the sofa, the Paris rattan chair, and a round rug, all displayed in an area the designer dubbed “the poetry corner.”
This corner, featuring a classic writing desk, a porcelain coffee cup, eucalyptus branches, books, and a note card beside a large window dressed with a dramatic, meticulously crafted curtain by A Morada, could only be called “the poetry corner.” Here, the public is invited to sit, contemplate the surrounding landscape, read, and write.

Within its 35m² of functional space, divided into an anteroom and a bathroom, Fernanda crafted a sunroom that intentionally brings together a vast array of elements: native Atlantic Forest species in a biophilic and naturalistic arrangement, a hand-painted chinoiserie adorning the walls, classic jequitibá wood furniture, refined retro-inspired tapestries, wallpapers, wooden beams reminiscent of country homes, ceramic lighting fixtures, and vases created exclusively for the project. This composition clearly expresses the richness of detail in her work and the depth of her research.
Driven by a desire to offer visitors a bucolic, fresh, and ethereal experience, landscaping was a central element of the project. Regarding the furniture, classic, rounded, lightweight, and intricately crafted forms were a prerequisite. Thus, the choice fell on pieces from Paschoal Bianco, crafted individually by master carpenters who are true artists in wood carving. Opting for the natural tone of jequitibá wood, the armchairs, stool, and side tables transport visitors to the grand residences and châteaus of rural France. To soften the design, natural fibers from Biasá were incorporated into the sofa, the Paris rattan chair, and a round rug, all displayed in an area the designer dubbed “the poetry corner.”
This corner, featuring a classic writing desk, a porcelain coffee cup, eucalyptus branches, books, and a note card beside a large window dressed with a dramatic, meticulously crafted curtain by A Morada, could only be called “the poetry corner.” Here, the public is invited to sit, contemplate the surrounding landscape, read, and write.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Snider & Metcalf Interior Design, LTD
Leading Interior Designers in Columbus, Ohio & Ponte Vedra, Florida

"About This Project: This modern farmhouse custom home is perfectly designed with function and lifestyle in mind. The large eat-in kitchen with a beautifully unique backsplash design that catches the eye boasts an island that can seat up to 5. With an open floor plan throughout, the living room and dining room sit off of the kitchen making it easy for entertaining guests. The living room's stunning wood beams offer that farmhouse charm, while the dining room boasts a custom built-in station perfect for displaying dishes and serving off of. At the second floor landing, you'll find a comfy and cozy nook featuring a beautiful white fireplace - perfect for taking naps or reading in the afternoon! The spa-like primary bathroom offers a relaxing oasis with its large walk-in shower and floating tub. This home is truly designed with comfort, style, and function in mind - perfect for any family!
Norman Builders is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network.
Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples.
As a Certified Luxury Builder, Norman Builders is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information."

reclaimed barnwood beams • Benjamin Moore hc 170 "stonington gray" paint in eggshell at walls • LED lighting along beams • Ergon Wood Talk Series 9 x 36 floor tile • Linen Noveltex drapery • Robert Allen linen canvas roman shades in greystone • reclaimed wood at window seats • Thibaut Luxe Woven window seat cushion • photography by Paul Finkel 2017

Design cues From our crystal range of pendants, these scones come with an added advantage of convertible fitting that you can change anytime from hard wired to plugin. So, now you have freedom to install these sconce where ever you want. Coming from design background, for me utility (read convenience, freedom of usage, pain points) are a bit more important than the aesthetics part. With each design, I try to improve a bit on 'non-beauty' part too, and now that I am creating things from scratch and have choice to work from ground up, I use every opportunity to make your product experience better, even if it means attending to a pain point (in this case freedom of choice after buying).
Dimension - 9" x 4.25"
- A small Naaya logo (approx 3/4") is embossed in 1 place on the inside surface of lamp.
- The lamp shade can be cleaned without hassle. Just wipe with damp cloth.
Accessories
- All Light electrical Fixtures are in compliance with US, European, UK, Australian, Canadian and International Standard.
- Lamp comes with E27 holder (bulbs not supplied)
- Wall mount and other accessories supplied.
- We may be able to accommodate some custom changes in the setup (wire length etc.) with nominal cost.

About This Project: This newly built transitional luxury home is the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. The large eat-in kitchen features a beautiful island with a custom marble backsplash, while the spa-like bathroom boasts a walk-in shower and floating tub. The house also features two large pools, a hottub, and tons of space on the lanai perfect for entertaining. The perfect indoor-outdoor transition makes this home ideal for any luxury buyer.
Waterstone City Homes is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network.
Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples.
As a Certified Luxury Builder, Waterstone City Homes is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Within its 35m² of functional space, divided into an anteroom and a bathroom, Fernanda crafted a sunroom that intentionally brings together a vast array of elements: native Atlantic Forest species in a biophilic and naturalistic arrangement, a hand-painted chinoiserie adorning the walls, classic jequitibá wood furniture, refined retro-inspired tapestries, wallpapers, wooden beams reminiscent of country homes, ceramic lighting fixtures, and vases created exclusively for the project. This composition clearly expresses the richness of detail in her work and the depth of her research.
Driven by a desire to offer visitors a bucolic, fresh, and ethereal experience, landscaping was a central element of the project. Regarding the furniture, classic, rounded, lightweight, and intricately crafted forms were a prerequisite. Thus, the choice fell on pieces from Paschoal Bianco, crafted individually by master carpenters who are true artists in wood carving. Opting for the natural tone of jequitibá wood, the armchairs, stool, and side tables transport visitors to the grand residences and châteaus of rural France. To soften the design, natural fibers from Biasá were incorporated into the sofa, the Paris rattan chair, and a round rug, all displayed in an area the designer dubbed “the poetry corner.”
This corner, featuring a classic writing desk, a porcelain coffee cup, eucalyptus branches, books, and a note card beside a large window dressed with a dramatic, meticulously crafted curtain by A Morada, could only be called “the poetry corner.” Here, the public is invited to sit, contemplate the surrounding landscape, read, and write.

Design cues From our crystal range of pendants, these scones come with an added advantage of convertible fitting that you can change anytime from hard wired to plugin. So, now you have freedom to install these sconce where ever you want. Coming from design background, for me utility (read convenience, freedom of usage, pain points) are a bit more important than the aesthetics part. With each design, I try to improve a bit on 'non-beauty' part too, and now that I am creating things from scratch and have choice to work from ground up, I use every opportunity to make your product experience better, even if it means attending to a pain point (in this case freedom of choice after buying).
Dimension - 5" high X 10 " wide X 5" deep
- A small Naaya logo (approx 3/4") is embossed in 1 place on the inside surface of lamp.
- The lamp shade can be cleaned without hassle. Just wipe with damp cloth.
Accessories
- All Light electrical Fixtures are in compliance with US, European, UK, Australian, Canadian and International Standard.
- Lamp comes with E27 holder (bulbs not supplied)
- Wall mount and other accessories supplied.
- We may be able to accommodate some custom changes in the setup (wire length etc.) with nominal cost.

A sculptural matte black freestanding tub anchors the space, its curved silhouette contrasting beautifully against the dramatic, veined stone slab behind it. The natural movement in the stone reads almost like a landscape painting, adding depth and quiet intensity to the composition. Two circular wall sconces glow like soft halos, casting warm light across the surface and heightening the moody atmosphere.
To the side, backlit frosted glass panels create the illusion of a window, diffusing light through layered botanical silhouettes. Though the greenery is intentionally artificial, the effect is immersive and tranquil, giving the interior wall a sense of openness and calm. A minimalist black tub filler maintains the clean, contemporary language of the space.
This primary bathroom soaking area blends artful materiality with architectural restraint, creating a deeply atmospheric retreat designed for restoration and pause.
Inside the water closet, a geometric wood feature wall introduces warmth and texture, its repeating pattern adding sculptural interest to what is often a purely functional space. Soft, ambient lighting enhances the dimensional surfaces, creating a cohesive and elevated experience.
Beyond the doorway, a glimpse of the dramatic vanity area and sculptural lighting maintains continuity with the rest of the primary bathroom design. Every detail, even within the enclosed water closet, reflects the same intentional, art-forward aesthetic.
Functional, private, and visually impactful, this primary bathroom suite balances bold design with refined practicality.
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