Nestled into the pines and fog, Gerrish Island made quite an eerie first impression. A winding driveway guided by a rhythm of trees so mature only the trunks could be seen through the car windows. The tree canopy created a darkened tunnel, its curves never providing clues to when it would end. The awe came from the pure excitement of what we would find around the bend. It was clad in age; dark weathered shingles, a mossy green trim, and craggy stonework. The screens had seen better days and the windows let in scant natural light. It had certainly been something special to its previous owners – a backdrop to highly anticipated summer escapes, grassy yard games, and beach days. It had been a special place to someone – empty now – but with the promise of huge potential. READ MORE >> The new owner of this turn-of-the-century shingle style home saw this potential too, asking us to imbue the home with that same sense of nostalgia, but in present day context for a modern day family. We documented the home inside and out, piecing together a loose timeline to its beginnings and its earlier additions and renovations. The style of the home, its massing and siting, were originally done brilliantly and would remain intact. Wherever we could keep the original stonework we did. It provided such a strong connection to the site and the tremendous amount of existing stone outcropping common to the Island. The original porch facing west, cold and enclosed, was demolished, making way for a new wrap around porch that now glows as the sunsets. Another screened porch to the back was fully winterized and made into a new family room. The interior was stripped back to the studs and reworked, only minimally, to improve flow or eliminate small rooms no longer necessary for present day living. New systems were installed and the kitchen was updated and reconfigured opening up to the new family room. Years later we were asked back to add a garage; something the home had never had. More flattering still, after the property sold again, the newest owners asked us to design a rear ‘L’ shaped addition to house. The design evolved to look like an original porch that had been enclosed, to house a more traditional butler’s pantry, mudroom, and an interior connection to the garage’s second floor where we would eventually design two additional guest suites. We were happy to be apart of what we thought was the second life for this home and ended up being a third life for another family who also saw this home and its unique property as too GOOD to pass up. - See more at: http://sommastudios.com/project/gerrish-island/#sthash.8X5r548R.dpuf

Located in Sonoma on 2.5 acres with sweeping canyon views, our client's home was built on a long, rectangular lot in 1972. They had owned it for just over ten years and used it for weekend escapes and entertaining. The home burnt down during the 2017 Tubbs fire, and our firm was engaged to design the rebuild. The site did not offer much wiggle room for a new footprint, given the flat bench area that had been graded into a steep hillside when the original subdivision and road were developed. This resulted in a plan that would mostly remain the same; a linear rectangle designed to fit between the driveway and the pool. The primary site strategy move was to change the front entry from the driveway end of the site to the middle of the rectangle, improving the privacy between the master bedroom and public space. We were also able to add a partial second floor to relocate the guest bedrooms from the main level upstairs, thereby enlarging the entertaining spaces to expand graciously to the pool (which remained undamaged). A large pantry and kitchen area were also essential. Fireproof materials include fiber cement board siding and soffits, standing seam metal roofing, and concrete slab porch floors which do not catch embers underneath. The renovated pool was outfitted for fire prevention. The interiors showcase light and distant views and connect seamlessly to the flat areas outside, providing ample space for entertaining year-round and the clients' two springer spaniels. Materials: • HardiePlank and board for firesafe siding, panels, trim, per CalFire WUI approved exterior wall siding and sheathing • Town & Country fireplace • Western Window Systems and Loewen Doors/Windows • Thermador appliances • Flooring: Brushed & Aged French Oak Hardwood Flooring - Mediterranean Kerrew French Oak, • StoneK2 Black Pearl Ledgestone, • Utopia Series Florence Hot Tub

Named for the original homestead, the Aspen Leaf Ranch blends early ranch history with modern sensibility. The owner, an outdoorsman and native plant enthusiast, and former project manager of notable Seattle buildings (including the Olympic Sculpture Park and the Bullitt Center), tasked Best Practice Architecture with designing a modest yet comfortable home reflective of valley cabins and farmsteads. He desired a small home that was ‘light on the land’, yet flexible enough to accommodate visiting friends and family. Located in a quiet river valley 10 miles from the nearest town, the result is a humble compound firmly rooted in the rural vernacular. The Methow Valley was familiar to the owner from childhood ski and camping trips and he now has family who live in the area. The Valley is hot and dry in the summer and on average receives over 70 inches of snow each winter. Set in a narrow river valley below high mountain peaks, the owner wanted the new home to have a strong visual and physical connection to the surrounding landscape. For many years, the homestead was operated as a horse packing guide service, and an old agricultural barn remains that will eventually be repurposed into a ski waxing room, shop, and sauna. Two new structures make up the residential retreat: a one-bedroom main house and a carport with an adjoining guest suite, small office, and storage for outdoor equipment. Best Practice’s design prioritizes natural light and optimizes dramatic views of the surrounding meadow, forest, hills, and mountains “I wanted both the design and scale of the new buildings to reflect traditional ranch homes and cabins in the remote river valley with all the creature comforts of modern living,” said the homeowner. “Ensuring a strong connection to the outside throughout the seasons was a primary goal. Windows on all sides and three exterior doors allow me to track the many species of birds and wildlife that move through the property and access the ever-changing light and weather.” Best Practice carefully positioned the new structures to frame important vistas while minimizing disturbance to the native forest and meadow. The exterior finishes and details are consistent with historic cabins and barns in the area but stylized to acknowledge the new structure’s place in time. Metal roofing, siding, and a gravel skirt were chosen to reduce wildfire risk, and native plantings attract and support local birds and wildlife. Best Practice simplified the interior detailing with a nod towards a rural cabin aesthetic, incorporating painted beadboard, extensive built-in cabinetry, warm woods, a sizeable kitchen, and an open nook for daytime lounging and overnight guests. The design also took into account the owner’s collection of art, family heirlooms, and furniture gathered over many years. Best Practice designed this Methow Valley home to respect the history and beauty of the historic Aspen Leaf Ranch while embracing modern comforts. The design successfully meets a well-considered program for 4-season use and serves as a full-time rural retreat for the owner as well as a gathering place for friends and family.

Staircase – Custom Detailed Vertical Connection | Second Floor Addition, Toronto This staircase is a key architectural feature of the home, thoughtfully designed as part of the second floor addition to create a seamless and inviting connection between levels. Rather than feeling enclosed or purely functional, the stair was intentionally planned to remain open, light-filled, and visually integrated with the surrounding spaces. The design showcases a custom railing system, combining glass panels with a continuous oak handrail and black metal detailing, striking a balance between warmth and modern contrast. The transparency of the glass allows natural light to flow freely through the stairwell, enhancing sightlines and preventing the vertical transition from feeling closed off. From a construction standpoint, the staircase required precise structural coordination, framing alignment, and finish integration to ensure safety, code compliance, and long-term durability—especially critical when tying a new second storey into an existing home. As part of the full-home transformation, this staircase reflects Cedarstone Group Inc.’s design-build philosophy: every transition space is an opportunity for thoughtful design, craftsmanship, and cohesion, not an afterthought.

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

Interior adaptation and design for a new kitchen space connecting the existing living with the other connections with the house. The kitchen remain as the most important area of the house updating the results.

Interior adaptation and design for a new kitchen space connecting the existing living with the other connections with the house. The kitchen remain as the most important area of the house updating the results.

This open staircase is designed as a central architectural feature, connecting levels while maintaining visual openness throughout the home. Warm wood treads paired with a soft neutral carpet runner create a balance of comfort and refinement, while sleek black iron balusters and a natural wood handrail add contrast and structure. The vertically paneled wall enhances height and texture, drawing the eye upward through the space. From the staircase and upper landing, the foyer below remains fully visible, allowing the sculptural statement lighting fixture to be appreciated from multiple levels. This thoughtful connection between floors transforms the staircase into more than a passageway, making it an integral part of the home’s overall design experience.

As a part of a larger transformation, the kitchen served as an anchor for rethinking how the home could feel and function. The goal was to create a space that felt truly integrated, flowed naturally within itself, and connected seamlessly to the outdoors. Storage was a top priority, with an emphasis on keeping countertops clean and the space feeling calm and open. Flow was equally important. What began as a layout optimized for entertaining evolved into a more intentional approach, where every sightline and transition was thoughtfully considered. The clients also needed the kitchen to work hard for their lifestyle, with a commercial-size refrigerator and freezer, generous prep space, and room to gather. The challenge was to bring purpose and polish to a space that didn’t quite feel like it belonged. The result is a kitchen that’s not only highly functional but finally feels like part of the home. Project challenges: - Maximizing storage was a primary challenge, especially with the inclusion of a commercial-sized fridge and freezer that occupied valuable cabinetry space. - The need for clean, uninterrupted lines throughout the kitchen required thoughtful detailing, especially around cabinetry transitions and appliance integration. - The oversized island design required two stone slabs and waterfall edges on both sides which posed both visual and logistical challenges. - Incorporating electrical outlets into the island in a way that felt intentional and unobtrusive demanded creative problem-solving. - The unique rooflines created strong visual angles that required a considered design approach to ensure the space felt cohesive rather than disjointed. - Balancing symmetry and flow in a kitchen with structural constraints required precise layout planning to maintain a cohesive visual rhythm. - Creating an intentional indoor/outdoor living flow, especially in the transitional space between the sliding doors to the backyard and the kitchen. Project solutions: - To balance the visual weight of the commercial-grade fridge and freezer, we flanked the range and hood with full-height pocket cabinetry, which created symmetry while reclaiming storage space. We also took a look into internal organization and carefully mapped out where every kitchen item would live. This allowed us to make informed decisions about drawer versus door configurations, and when to incorporate features like roll-out shelving to maximize accessibility and function. - Linear light fixtures above the island were chosen for their low visual impact, allowing sightlines to remain clear and emphasizing the thoughtful spatial layout. - The oversized island was carefully executed using two coordinated slabs, with a subtle brass inlay detail between them to turn a logistical challenge into a design feature. - Pop-up electrical outlets were integrated into the island to keep surfaces clutter-free while maintaining easy access, which combined form and function seamlessly. - With multiple focal points and a peaked vaulted ceiling, layout precision was key. The island, hood, and adjacent staircase were all perfectly centered on the vault, creating a sense of alignment across the open space. - In the transitional area between kitchen and backyard, we added a wet bar that visually and functionally connects the indoor space with the outdoors. This addition provides extra storage and creates a dedicated entertainment spot for guests, enhancing the overall flow and usability of the home.

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

It all started with a sliding barn door and a bold and simple thought: what if we painted it “Geranium”? From there, a neutral-meets-ethnic loft interior unfolded at Society Hill Tower, perched high above the city of Philadelphia. Our client brought us in as interior designers to collaborate with Ambit Architecture, who helped her merge two adjacent apartment units into one, large, open floor-plan unit. One of the challenges on a project like this is the very openness of the space – there are many furniture selections visually connected to one another, and connected to the kitchen, with its bold pops of yellow. So it was important to establish some fundamentally neutral tones that would provide unity from one furniture grouping to the next. We also wanted to make sure that the panoramic views of the city would remain an important focus of the space. Therefore, in the living and dining room, we chose large scale furniture pieces made from rustic or reclaimed wood, while upholstered pieces are covered in crisp linen or neutral leather. Then, we added layer upon layer of cheery textiles and prints. We started with jute and color reform wool rugs. Then, we added an ottoman also wrapped in an ethnic rug, kilim pillows, and velvety throws. The result is a space that is unified, lively, yet calm. Photos by Ambit Architecture

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

The Denali floor plan is designed to bring warmth into every home by supporting the unique needs of multigenerational families. Its ample size and well-planned layout ensure every generation has space to feel both connected and comfortably independent. The main floor includes a full in-law suite designed with accessibility in mind, allowing aging parents or visiting relatives to live with ease while remaining close to family life. Generous bedrooms throughout the home provide room for growing families, while a large flex room offers adaptable space for work, play, or retreat. The basement is intentionally planned for future expansion, with an additional bedroom and bathroom and direct basement garage access allowing for private, self-contained living suitable for adult children, or extended family. Across the home, openness and connection are balanced with thoughtful privacy. Whether gathering in shared spaces or retreating to quieter areas, each generation can enjoy comfort, dignity, and belonging. The Denali is crafted to evolve with families, offering warm, functional, and future-ready home for every stage of life.

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

This opulent, newly constructed four-bedroom, three and a half bath residence is situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot within an exclusive gated community. Boasting an elegant exterior of four-sided brick complemented by white-washed stone accents, this home features numerous spacious living areas, each graced by a cozy fireplace and seamlessly connected to the open-concept kitchen. The shared spaces are adorned with exquisite site-finished hardwood flooring and adorned with wood-beamed ceilings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The impeccably designed kitchen features custom white cabinetry adorned with brushed gold hardware, stunning quartz countertops that seamlessly extend up the backsplash, a truly breathtaking Waterfall Kitchen Center Island, and top-of-the-line KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a separate gas cooktop and a convenient pot-filler. A striking office is conveniently situated just off the entry foyer, exuding an elevated sense of style with its Board and Batten walls and upgraded lighting. Whether you prefer to unwind in the expansive screened-in porch with its elegant flagstone flooring, brick fireplace, and charming tongue-and-groove ceiling, which overlooks the spacious backyard, or relax on the front porch with similar high-quality finishes, you'll find outdoor living at its finest. The main level hosts the primary suite, featuring hardwood flooring, a wood-beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet equipped with custom shelving for optimal organization. The primary spa retreat offers a luxurious standing tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and double vanities complemented by a quartz countertop tower. Upstairs, you'll discover three more bedrooms, including a guest suite with its private bathroom, as well as two additional bedrooms connected by a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom. The upper level also boasts a generously sized bonus room, adding extra flexibility and living space to this exceptional home. This residence radiates elegant detailing and offers limitless possibilities to accommodate today's lifestyles. The partially finished Terrace Level is graced by a double-sided fireplace, and the builder has thoughtfully included all HVAC, electrical, drywall, and rough plumbing required for a full bathroom and powder room. The property's landscape is professionally designed and features an underground irrigation system to ensure the grounds remain beautifully maintained.

For the past several years, Buffum Homes has proudly featured Parade Homes within our own developments, and each year they have been a tremendous success. The Spring 2026 Parade of Homes was no exception. This year, we showcased our Sydney floor plan, one of Buffum Homes’ most popular 1.5-story home designs. Time and time again, homeowners are drawn to this plan because of its thoughtful layout, functional design, and ability to be customized to fit a variety of lifestyles. From the moment visitors arrived, this home made a statement. Its striking modern exterior immediately stood out within the development and offered exceptional curb appeal. The design team selected beautiful masonry accents that perfectly complemented the home’s color palette, creating a sophisticated and welcoming first impression. Every exterior detail was intentionally chosen to enhance the architecture and showcase the home’s unique character. Upon entry to this home, guests are welcomed through impressive double front doors that lead into a warm and inviting foyer. Immediately beyond, the stunning two-story great room creates a grand first impression. An overlooking loft from the second floor enhances the open feel of the space while allowing an abundance of natural daylight to pour throughout the home. A beautiful masonry fireplace chase serves as the focal point of the room, adding warmth, texture, and character to the heart of the home. Just off the foyer is a private office featuring a thoughtfully designed custom built-in, creating the perfect space for working from home, studying, or staying organized. The attention to detail found throughout this space is a great example of the craftsmanship that Buffum Homes is known for. Tucked away off the main living area is the primary suite, a comfortable retreat designed with both beauty and functionality in mind. The bedroom features a stunning tray ceiling accented with white oak detailing, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The primary bathroom includes a custom tiled shower, private water closet, dual-sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. Every element was carefully considered to maximize both comfort and everyday convenience. Buffum Homes has become known for incorporating unique trim details throughout our homes, and this Parade Home was certainly no exception. From feature walls and ceiling treatments to custom built-ins and carefully crafted millwork, thoughtful details can be found around every corner. The great room flows seamlessly into the dining area and spacious U-shaped kitchen, creating an ideal layout for entertaining and everyday living. This updated version of the Sydney floor plan features a massive walk-in pantry with abundant shelving and countertop space, providing exceptional storage and organization. Within the kitchen, a stunning custom hood vent serves as a beautiful statement piece while built-in nooks offer convenient storage for cooking oils, spices, and other kitchen essentials. Just beyond the kitchen, the mudroom provides a practical transition space from the garage into the home. Complete with custom built-in lockers, a convenient half bath, and a large laundry room, this area was designed to keep daily life organized and efficient. The home also features a spacious three-stall garage, offering plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and recreational equipment. Spanning roughly 1,500 square feet, the main floor was thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality while maintaining an open and inviting feel. Every space serves a purpose while still providing the custom details and architectural features that make this home stand out. Ascending to the second floor, homeowners are welcomed by a spacious open loft overlooking the great room below. This versatile area provides additional living space and can be customized to fit a variety of needs. Whether used as a play area for children or grandchildren, a reading nook, a homework station, or simply a secondary gathering space, the loft adds both functionality and character to the home while maintaining a connection to the main living areas below. Also located on the second floor are three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing plenty of room for family members and guests. The thoughtful layout allows for privacy while still keeping everyone connected through the open loft space. With approximately 1,000 square feet on the upper level, the second floor complements the main level perfectly while adding flexibility for growing families and changing needs over time. The lower level offers just under 1,100 square feet of future finish potential, providing homeowners with the flexibility to expand their living space as their needs evolve. Thoughtfully designed and well laid out, the basement is ready to accommodate a variety of future uses while maintaining excellent flow and functionality. The available space is ideal for adding two future bedrooms, a spacious family room, and a future full bathroom, making it perfect for growing families, hosting guests, or creating additional recreational space. Even with these future living areas, there is still plenty of room remaining for storage, ensuring homeowners have ample space for seasonal items, hobbies, and household essentials. One of the greatest advantages of the Sydney floor plan is its ability to grow alongside its homeowners. While the home already offers approximately 2,500 square feet of beautifully finished above-grade living space, completing the lower level would bring the total finished living area to over 3,600 square feet. This creates a truly expansive home that provides exceptional flexibility, comfort, and long-term value. In its current configuration, this home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,500 square feet above grade. With a future lower level finish, homeowners have the opportunity to expand to 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 3,600 square feet of finished living space. The flexibility built into this design is one of the many reasons the Sydney continues to be one of our most requested floor plans. This home was filled with thoughtful details and custom touches throughout. From the carefully selected finishes and trim work to the intentional layout decisions, every aspect of the home was designed to maximize space, natural light, and everyday functionality. The result is a home that not only looks beautiful but also lives exceptionally well for years to come. It was a pleasure featuring this home in the Parade of Homes and welcoming so many visitors through its doors. We always enjoy the opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail while sharing the quality that Buffum Homes brings to every project throughout West Michigan. As you browse through the photos below, we hope you’ll find inspiration for your own future home and discover ideas that fit your lifestyle and vision. Whether it is a favorite finish, layout feature, built-in detail, or design element, this home is a great example of how personalized a Buffum Home can be. When you’re ready to begin your custom home journey, we’d love to help create a customized version of the Sydney floor plan tailored specifically to your family’s needs, style, and goals. We can’t wait to help bring your dream home to life.

Located in Sonoma on 2.5 acres with sweeping canyon views, our client's home was built on a long, rectangular lot in 1972. They had owned it for just over ten years and used it for weekend escapes and entertaining. The home burnt down during the 2017 Tubbs fire, and our firm was engaged to design the rebuild. The site did not offer much wiggle room for a new footprint, given the flat bench area that had been graded into a steep hillside when the original subdivision and road were developed. This resulted in a plan that would mostly remain the same; a linear rectangle designed to fit between the driveway and the pool. The primary site strategy move was to change the front entry from the driveway end of the site to the middle of the rectangle, improving the privacy between the master bedroom and public space. We were also able to add a partial second floor to relocate the guest bedrooms from the main level upstairs, thereby enlarging the entertaining spaces to expand graciously to the pool (which remained undamaged). A large pantry and kitchen area were also essential. Fireproof materials include fiber cement board siding and soffits, standing seam metal roofing, and concrete slab porch floors which do not catch embers underneath. The renovated pool was outfitted for fire prevention. The interiors showcase light and distant views and connect seamlessly to the flat areas outside, providing ample space for entertaining year-round and the clients' two springer spaniels. Materials: • HardiePlank and board for firesafe siding, panels, trim, per CalFire WUI approved exterior wall siding and sheathing • Town & Country fireplace • Western Window Systems and Loewen Doors/Windows • Thermador appliances • Flooring: Brushed & Aged French Oak Hardwood Flooring - Mediterranean Kerrew French Oak, • StoneK2 Black Pearl Ledgestone, • Utopia Series Florence Hot Tub