This one-of-a-kind custom luxury mountain residence applied high performance green building envelope, and other smart and renewable technologies. In addition to ample living space, the residence includes exquisite car rebuilding and show room facilities. We cut into the top of a mountain side to offer the homeowners 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Denver. We used 12”- 22” R-40+ battered foundation walls, 8” engineered LSL FSC lumber throughout, an elliptical and radial building design. We also installed a 12 kW solar PV power system with a battery back-up. While the homeowners remain connected to the grid, their meter has yet to move forward. We used ICF forms for fire and wind resistance while taking advantage of their incredible insulating and customizing properties. ICFs are the perfect choice when avoiding square corners is desired at all costs. The solar thermal collectors you see out front were integrated with geothermal and HRV/ERV ventilation and environmental control systems. By designing this kind of in-floor heating and cooling system it keeps the ambient temperatures inside this stunning home comfortable and healthy year round. Check out some of the images we captured during the beginning, middle, and completion of this unique and eclectic Sunshine Canyon 8,000 square foot Net-Zero Luxury Home.

The family great room which is located right off the dining room allows families to remain connected through the open floor plan. Functional for large and small families. You can even watch TV while making dinner! Our entertainment wall has built in shelving and hides all your TV cables, the great room gas fireplace surrounded by herringbone tile.

CONTACT CONSTRUCTIVE ALTERNATIVES WHEN YOU’RE READY TO BUILD BETTER IN THE MOUNTAINS! This one-of-a-kind custom luxury mountain residence applied a high performance green building envelope, and other smart and renewable technologies. In addition to ample living space, the residence includes exquisite car rebuilding and show room facilities. We cut into the top of a mountain side to offer the homeowners 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Denver. We used 12”- 22” R-40+ battered foundation walls, 8” engineered LSL FSC lumber throughout, and an elliptical and radial building design. We also installed a 12 kW solar PV power system with a battery back-up. While the homeowners remain connected to the grid, their meter has yet to move forward. We used ICF forms for fire and wind resistance while taking advantage of their incredible insulating and customizing properties. ICFs are the perfect choice when avoiding square corners is desired at all costs. The solar thermal collectors you see out front were integrated with geothermal and HRV/ERV ventilation and environmental control systems. By designing this kind of in-floor heating and cooling system it keeps the ambient temperatures inside this stunning home comfortable and healthy year round. Check out some of the images we captured during the beginning, middle, and completion of this unique and eclectic Sunshine Canyon 8,000 square foot Net-Zero Luxury Home.

The family great room which is located right off the dining room allows families to remain connected through the open floor plan. Functional for large and small families. You can even watch TV while making dinner!

A light-filled kitchen and family room form the heart of the home, creating a welcoming space for gathering, conversation, and relaxation. A thoughtfully designed island provides seating and ample storage while subtly defining the kitchen workspace, allowing the cook to remain connected to family and guests. Expansive windows and overhead skylights flood the interior with natural light, while the vaulted ceiling enhances the sense of openness and volume. Natural wood finishes add warmth, texture, and timeless character throughout the space.

A Lake Minnetonka primary suite becomes a restorative retreat, honoring decades of family life while creating space for quiet mornings, meaningful work, and the next chapter ahead. In the sitting room, blue-grey upholstery, cream paneling, French doors, and a softly glowing fireplace create a calm place to read, gather, and remain connected to the lake beyond.

Set within a serene natural landscape and abutting the scenic Campbell's Scottish Highlands Golf Course, this striking custom modern home by RWH Architect blends contemporary architecture, functional living, and site-sensitive design into a residence that feels both dramatic and welcoming. Inspired by Scandinavian architectural principles and modern New England design, the home was carefully crafted to balance bold geometric forms with warm natural materials, creating a timeless luxury residence deeply connected to its surroundings. Expansive views overlooking the rolling fairways and natural landscape of the golf course further reinforce the home’s strong relationship to the site. One of the primary design challenges of the project was fitting the home between two existing houses while maintaining a high level of privacy for both interior and exterior living spaces, while also maximizing expansive views of the course. Rather than allowing the surrounding structures to limit the design, RWH Architect carefully positioned and shaped the residence to create a sense of separation, openness, and visual connection where appropriate. Through thoughtful massing and strategic orientation, the home is able to open toward the golf course while shielding key living areas from neighboring properties, resulting in a balance of privacy, light, and uninterrupted views. The architectural composition is defined by two soaring gabled structures connected through a recessed central entry, establishing a bold visual identity while maintaining clean, minimalist lines. A significant challenge in the design process was balancing the large-scale modern forms with a sense of warmth and livability. Through the use of natural wood accents, expansive glazing, and carefully proportioned massing, the home achieves a refined balance between contemporary minimalism and inviting residential comfort. Dark exterior cladding contrasts beautifully against warm materials and the surrounding landscape, allowing the structure to feel sophisticated without appearing cold or overpowering. Another critical design challenge involved maximizing natural light while preserving energy efficiency and maintaining privacy throughout the home. RWH Architect carefully oriented the structure and strategically positioned the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows to capture sweeping golf course and landscape views while maintaining the comfort and privacy of the interior spaces. The result is a home filled with natural light that maintains a strong connection to the outdoors while still providing private, comfortable living environments. Inside, the thoughtfully designed floor plan prioritizes openness, comfort, and flexibility for modern living. The residence was intentionally organized into two distinct architectural zones: a private wing dedicated to the bedrooms and personal retreats, and a public living wing centered around the kitchen, dining, and gathering spaces. This separation creates a natural balance between entertaining and privacy, allowing the home to function seamlessly for both intimate daily living and larger social gatherings. The main living level centers around an expansive open-concept kitchen, dining area, and great room designed to function as the social heart of the home. One challenge within the interior layout was creating a highly open floor plan while still maintaining distinct functional zones and practical circulation. Through careful spatial planning, ceiling volume transitions, and strategic room positioning, the design creates separation without sacrificing openness. Large windows and direct access to the rear outdoor living spaces further reinforce the seamless indoor-outdoor connection, allowing the living spaces to fully embrace the surrounding views of the course and the natural landscape beyond. Rather than existing on a single flat plane, the residence was thoughtfully designed across multiple levels that respond directly to the site’s natural topography. As occupants move through the home, subtle level changes and transitional stair sequences create a dynamic spatial experience that guides movement between the public and private zones of the residence. This layered circulation approach enhances the architectural character of the interior while creating moments of progression, discovery, and connection between spaces. The result is a home that feels immersive and expansive, where movement throughout the residence becomes part of the overall architectural experience itself. The first floor also incorporates flexible private accommodations, including a guest suite with ensuite bathroom and additional secondary bedrooms positioned to create privacy away from the primary gathering spaces. This approach allows the residence to comfortably support multigenerational living, guests, and evolving family needs over time. On the upper level, the luxurious primary suite serves as a private sanctuary complete with dual walk-in closets, a spacious spa-inspired bathroom, and access to a private balcony overlooking the property and adjacent golf course. Dedicated office spaces were intentionally integrated into the design to address the growing demand for functional remote work environments without compromising the home’s residential character. A centrally located laundry room further improves day-to-day convenience and efficiency. Vaulted ceilings, oversized glazing, and carefully framed sightlines enhance the sense of openness and light throughout the upper level. Throughout the home, minimalist detailing and carefully selected materials reinforce the project’s modern architectural identity while preserving warmth and livability. The interplay of sharp rooflines, expansive glass, natural textures, and integrated landscaping creates a residence that feels sculptural from every angle while remaining exceptionally functional for everyday life. This custom luxury residence exemplifies RWH Architect’s expertise in contemporary residential architecture, innovative problem solving, and personalized home design. By transforming complex site conditions and modern living demands into opportunities for architectural creativity, the project delivers a sophisticated home that is visually striking, highly functional, and thoughtfully connected to its environment for generations to come.

Summer has a way of inspiring fresh starts. Whether you're relocating, looking for your first home, or searching for a neighborhood that better fits your lifestyle, July is an excellent time to explore the growing opportunities available in East Austin. With its vibrant culture, expanding amenities, and convenient access to some of the city's most popular destinations, East Austin continues to attract homebuyers looking for more than just a place to live—they're looking for a place to belong. At Arden Springdale, homeowners can enjoy thoughtfully designed residences in a community that embraces modern living while remaining connected to the character that makes East Austin unique.

Design Visualization | Expected Completed Exterior Architectural visualization of the completed contemporary custom home, set within a mature wooded property. The design uses strong horizontal and vertical forms, expansive glazing, warm wood cladding and dark metal detailing to create a modern exterior that remains connected to its natural setting. The composition was developed around large openings, sheltered outdoor areas and a restrained material palette, with the landscaping intended to soften the architecture and integrate the home into the surrounding forest.

This one-of-a-kind custom luxury mountain residence applied high performance green building envelope, and other smart and renewable technologies. In addition to ample living space, the residence includes exquisite car rebuilding and show room facilities. We cut into the top of a mountain side to offer the homeowners 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Denver. We used 12”- 22” R-40+ battered foundation walls, 8” engineered LSL FSC lumber throughout, an elliptical and radial building design. We also installed a 12 kW solar PV power system with a battery back-up. While the homeowners remain connected to the grid, their meter has yet to move forward. We used ICF forms for fire and wind resistance while taking advantage of their incredible insulating and customizing properties. ICFs are the perfect choice when avoiding square corners is desired at all costs. The solar thermal collectors you see out front were integrated with geothermal and HRV/ERV ventilation and environmental control systems. By designing this kind of in-floor heating and cooling system it keeps the ambient temperatures inside this stunning home comfortable and healthy year round. Check out some of the images we captured during the beginning, middle, and completion of this unique and eclectic Sunshine Canyon 8,000 square foot Net-Zero Luxury Home.

Summer has a way of inspiring fresh starts. Whether you're relocating, looking for your first home, or searching for a neighborhood that better fits your lifestyle, July is an excellent time to explore the growing opportunities available in East Austin. With its vibrant culture, expanding amenities, and convenient access to some of the city's most popular destinations, East Austin continues to attract homebuyers looking for more than just a place to live—they're looking for a place to belong. At Arden Springdale, homeowners can enjoy thoughtfully designed residences in a community that embraces modern living while remaining connected to the character that makes East Austin unique.

Striking the balance between being sheltered from the elements and remaining connected to the healing properties of the natural world
Design ideas for a mid-sized modern partial sun concrete paver landscaping in Vancouver.

The fourth-floor bonus space is transformed into a full home bar with custom cabinetry, a stone counter, glass display storage and a rolling library ladder. Deep blue-green cabinetry, brass detailing and textured tile give the space its own identity while remaining connected to the home’s broader material palette.

Moody Modern Library Lounge This intimate sitting area strikes a dramatic contrast to the bright open living spaces of the home, utilizing dark tones and rich textures to create a cozy "conversation pit" atmosphere. Centered around a sleek marble-topped table, the space functions perfectly as a library lounge or a sophisticated spot for evening cocktails. Key Design Features: Statement Lighting: A sculptural, cascading chandelier acts as the room's crown jewel, featuring multiple illuminated organic-shaped pendants that tumble down from the dark vaulted ceiling beams. Color & Texture: Four rust-colored velvet barrel chairs offer plush seating and introduce a warm, earthy hue that pops against the moody charcoal walls and dark wood cabinetry. Built-in Storage: Floor-to-ceiling dark wood shelving lines the back wall, filled with books and decor to reinforce the study-like aesthetic. Architectural Details: High clerestory windows and black-framed glass doors ensure the space remains connected to the outdoors despite its darker, more enclosed palette.

Smart storage solutions incorporated into the kitchen peninsula and mounted wall cabinets keep countertops clear. The peninsula has a gas stovetop, a clever design choice that frees up perimeter counter space while allowing the cook to remain connected to the dining area.

Creating a comfortable outdoor living space is a priority for many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. With rising summer temperatures, installing a shade tarp in your backyard offers an affordable and effective solution for sun protection. We’ve developed this detailed, step-by-step guide to help you confidently install a shade tarp that not only shields you from the sun but also adds aesthetic appeal to your outdoor area. Benefits of Installing a Backyard Shade Tarp Before diving into the installation process, let’s explore the key benefits of having a backyard shade tarp: Provides UV Protection: Keeps your family and guests safe from harmful sun exposure. Reduces Outdoor Temperatures: Creates a cooler, more enjoyable outdoor space. Protects Outdoor Furniture: Extends the life of patio furniture by reducing sun damage. Enhances Outdoor Aesthetics: Adds a modern, stylish look to your yard. Budget-Friendly: More affordable compared to permanent structures like pergolas. Materials and Tools You’ll Need To begin your DIY backyard shade project, gather the following materials and tools: Materials: Shade tarp (UV-resistant and breathable) Sturdy posts or existing structures (trees, fences, walls) Mounting hardware (eye bolts, D-rings, turnbuckles, snap hooks) Nylon or polyester rope, or stainless-steel wire Concrete (if installing new posts) Tools: Power drill Measuring tape Level Ladder Wrench or adjustable spanner Post hole digger (if installing new posts) Step 1: Plan Your Shade Tarp Layout The first step in installing your backyard shade tarp is careful planning. Take time to assess your outdoor area and answer these key questions: Where is the sun’s path throughout the day? What size and shape of tarp best suits your space? Will you anchor the tarp to existing structures or install new posts? What height do you want the tarp to sit at for maximum shade and airflow? Pro Tip: Use string or garden hoses to visualize the tarp layout on the ground before making permanent decisions. Step 2: Measure and Mark Anchor Points Once you’ve determined the tarp’s location and orientation: Measure the tarp dimensions. Mark the exact points where each corner of the tarp will be anchored. Ensure that the anchor points are at least 5–10% longer than the tarp size to allow for tensioning and slight adjustments. Consider slope angles for water runoff. Aim for at least a 20-degree angle to prevent water pooling on the tarp. Step 3: Install Support Posts (If Necessary) If your backyard lacks existing anchor points like trees or fences, you’ll need to install sturdy support posts: Dig post holes at least 24 inches deep and 8-12 inches wide for stability. Set posts in concrete, making sure they remain plumb and level. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24–48 hours before applying tension from the tarp. We recommend using pressure-treated wood, galvanized steel poles, or aluminum posts for longevity and strength. Step 4: Install Mounting Hardware With your anchor points ready, it’s time to install the necessary hardware: Attach eye bolts or pad eyes securely into walls, posts, or other fixed structures. For added flexibility and adjustability, install turnbuckles or tensioners to fine-tune the tarp’s tightness. Connect snap hooks, D-rings, or carabiners to make assembly and disassembly easier. Make sure all hardware is rated for outdoor use to prevent rust and corrosion. Step 5: Attach and Tension the Shade Tarp Now it’s time for the most satisfying part—mounting the shade tarp: Begin by attaching one corner of the tarp to an anchor point. Gradually attach the remaining corners, moving diagonally for even tension. Adjust each connection point using your turnbuckles, ropes, or cables. Pull the tarp tight enough to avoid sagging, but not so tight that it risks tearing. Check that the tarp maintains the desired slope for rainwater runoff and adjust tension as needed. Step 6: Final Adjustments and Safety Check Before enjoying your new shaded area: Inspect all anchor points and hardware for stability. Test the tarp’s tension and make adjustments for even distribution. Ensure that no sharp edges or loose connections remain that could damage the tarp or pose a safety hazard. Confirm that the tarp is secure in windy conditions by giving it a gentle tug. If you live in an area with frequent high winds, consider removing the tarp during storms to prevent damage. Step 7: Enjoy Your Shaded Backyard Oasis Once installed, your backyard shade tarp provides a comfortable and protective space for outdoor gatherings, relaxation, or family activities. You can decorate underneath with outdoor furniture, string lights, or potted plants to create a personalized outdoor retreat. Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Shade Tarp Performance To extend the life of your shade tarp, follow these maintenance guidelines: Regularly check for wear and tear, especially around anchor points and seams. Clean the tarp periodically with mild soap and water to prevent mildew buildup. Store the tarp indoors during harsh weather seasons if it's not designed for year-round use. Tighten hardware as needed to maintain proper tension and avoid sagging. By following these simple care steps, your shade tarp will continue to deliver years of sun protection and outdoor comfort. Conclusion: Upgrade Your Outdoor Space with a DIY Shade Tarp Installing a shade tarp in your backyard is a cost-effective and rewarding DIY project. With careful planning, quality materials, and proper installation techniques, you’ll enjoy cool, shaded outdoor living all season long. This step-by-step guide ensures your project goes smoothly from start to finish.

Designed as a flexible extension of the main living spaces, this lounge and music room supports a variety of activities, from practicing instruments and reading to gathering with family and friends. The space can remain connected to the main floor or be separated when greater privacy is desired. A custom wood slat feature wall provides architectural warmth while creating a dedicated display for the family’s instruments. As part of the Hearth Residence whole-home renovation, the room reflects a broader focus on adaptable spaces that evolve with changing routines and support everyday family life.

Installing electrical in a condo reno often proves difficult, especially in a concrete building. Unable to penetrate the ceiling to relocate an off-centre chandelier we opted for a track system which was installed properly centred over the dining table while remaining connected to the off-centre electrical box. The gray crystals & glass domes bring a touch of elegance to the space & are transparent enough that they do not detract from the sensational view beyond. Photography By: Studio Two Photography

This one-of-a-kind custom luxury mountain residence applied high performance green building envelope, and other smart and renewable technologies. In addition to ample living space, the residence includes exquisite car rebuilding and show room facilities. We cut into the top of a mountain side to offer the homeowners 360 degree panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder and Denver. We used 12”- 22” R-40+ battered foundation walls, 8” engineered LSL FSC lumber throughout, an elliptical and radial building design. We also installed a 12 kW solar PV power system with a battery back-up. While the homeowners remain connected to the grid, their meter has yet to move forward. We used ICF forms for fire and wind resistance while taking advantage of their incredible insulating and customizing properties. ICFs are the perfect choice when avoiding square corners is desired at all costs. The solar thermal collectors you see out front were integrated with geothermal and HRV/ERV ventilation and environmental control systems. By designing this kind of in-floor heating and cooling system it keeps the ambient temperatures inside this stunning home comfortable and healthy year round. Check out some of the images we captured during the beginning, middle, and completion of this unique and eclectic Sunshine Canyon 8,000 square foot Net-Zero Luxury Home.