Studio Terrain’s landscape design was crafted to complement this beautifully remodeled double A-frame Eichler home located in Castro Valley. We aimed to preserve the iconic style of the home while enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the outdoor spaces. The home’s mid-century modern architecture was originally designed by renowned architects Claude Oakland and Jones & Emmons. These architects designed roughly 185 homes on the hillside community capturing beautiful views and further elevating the landscape connection to its surroundings. Drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design principles, we emphasized clean lines, simplicity, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The outdoor space features multiple decks, patios, a gas fire pit, and a built-in gas BBQ, all thoughtfully integrated to align with the architectural style of the home. The spacious lawn and outdoor living areas offer versatile spaces for relaxation and entertaining, framed by panoramic bay views and stunning sunsets. Our design approach respected the home’s original character, seamlessly blending modern elements with Eichler’s architectural vision. By maintaining open sightlines and a fluid transition between interior and exterior spaces, we created an outdoor environment that enhances the home's aesthetic and provides a serene retreat.

Sebastian and Tanja DiGrande's quest for natural light and open, modern design led them to Klopf Architecture in San Francisco. Working hand-in-hand with homeowner/designer Tanja DiGrande, Klopf collaborated on a modern addition to the rear of a traditional-style home. The idea was to depart from the original style completely to draw a distinction between the original house and any later additions, as well as observe a very minimal, clean, gallery-like modern style against which changing daylight, art, furniture, and of course the people provide the color and motion. With its dark gray stuccoed walls, dark steel railing, and floor-to-ceiling windows, the exterior of the addition is at the same time an open, modern box as well as a receding volume that acts almost as a backdrop for the house, receding visually out of respect for the original home. From the interior, windows bring in nature and views from all around the lush property. They also allow views of the original house. Up on the roof deck the views magnify. The owners use a boom and crank to bring up food and drinks when entertaining! Inside, the simple clean-lined spaces showcase the couple’s minimal, modern taste. The open bathroom epitomizes the clean, minimal style of the addition. On the exterior, steel elements bring a more industrial modern feeling to the addition from the rear. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Geoff Campen, and Angela Todorova Co-Designer: Tanja DiGrande Contractor: Jose Ramirez & J-C General Contractors Inc. Photography ©2015 Mariko Reed Location: Orinda, CA Year completed: 2014

Designer Janet Villafane of Villafane Design, LLC of Chester, New Jersey designed and executed this contemporary kitchen with Aston Smith of Bilotta Kitchens of New York. According to Villafane, “from the moment you meet this family you understand their priority in life is family and friends. We were looking for a design that, first and foremost, emphasized the occupants’ request to have a home that was inviting to all that entered. We continued to focus on that request throughout the design phase.” In addition, the design team needed to satisfy the needs of a disabled family member. They wanted him to be able to flow through all areas of the space and feel as if he could comfortably use the open kitchen and family room without any hindrance. The clients were inspired by clean lines and simplicity. When they spoke about their modern Florida home, one could hear and see their enthusiasm and excitement to bring that simplicity into their new home. It became evident early on that their new space should be contemporary but the home’s exterior, as well as the neighboring community, had an old world, traditional charm. The goal was to avoid competing aesthetics while respecting both looks. The resulting interior design incorporated slab doors with both semi-gloss white lacquer and grey stain on horizontal grained oak. The rich dark oak base cabinets perfectly balanced the ceiling beams. The use of a stainless channel system, in place of traditional hardware, and the stainless toe kick completed the design. The Bertazzoni cooktop and wall ovens in stainless steel, Sub-Zero refrigeration paneled in white semi-gloss, and a stainless steel chimney hood enhanced the clean, uninterrupted lines. The island countertop is Thunder White granite in a leathered finish; the perimeter is Super White Quartz; and the nook table is Virginia Mist honed granite. The backsplash is a frosted glass tile. The clients hope for quality, simplicity and functionality were beautifully achieved by the designers. Closed, solid front cabinets provide a “home” for everything in the kitchen. A seating nook with a large screen TV, as well as additional TVs visible throughout the kitchen and family room, satisfied the demand of watching multiple sporting events at one time. To finish it all off decorative lighting was carefully selected to make a “wow” statement. Designer: Janet Villafane of Villafane Design LLC Bilotta Designer: Aston Smith Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

Studio Terrain’s landscape design was crafted to complement this beautifully remodeled double A-frame Eichler home located in Castro Valley. We aimed to preserve the iconic style of the home while enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the outdoor spaces. The home’s mid-century modern architecture was originally designed by renowned architects Claude Oakland and Jones & Emmons. These architects designed roughly 185 homes on the hillside community capturing beautiful views and further elevating the landscape connection to its surroundings. Drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design principles, we emphasized clean lines, simplicity, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The outdoor space features multiple decks, patios, a gas fire pit, and a built-in gas BBQ, all thoughtfully integrated to align with the architectural style of the home. The spacious lawn and outdoor living areas offer versatile spaces for relaxation and entertaining, framed by panoramic bay views and stunning sunsets. Our design approach respected the home’s original character, seamlessly blending modern elements with Eichler’s architectural vision. By maintaining open sightlines and a fluid transition between interior and exterior spaces, we created an outdoor environment that enhances the home's aesthetic and provides a serene retreat.

A respectful renovation balances historical preservation and contemporary design. A historic log cabin, reimagined for a preservation-minded couple. Working with the architect, we thoughtfully swapped extraneous wood for panoramic windows and steel I-beams. The resulting interior feels simultaneously seamless and sophisticated, open and intimate. Layers of texture lend intrigue throughout: rustic timber walls complement the client’s contemporary art collection; plush upholstery softens such as a copious cobalt sectional soften minimalist lines of metal; cozy nooks, like one bridging the living room and master suite, invite relaxation. The master transforms the historic core of the cabin into a refuge defined by logs darkened to near black. Catering to keen chefs, we designed a gourmet kitchen as functional as it is flawless; opting out of a dining room in favor of a larger family area, the expansive kitchen island seats six. Every careful detail reflects the synergy we felt with this client and their respect for both history and design.

Modern Tudor on the Prairie Our clients fell in love with the wide-open spaces of the White Oaks Savanna development. They dreamed of a home that celebrated the beauty of Minnesota’s ever-changing landscape and blurred the line between indoor and outdoor. They wanted a home with a traditional exterior, impressive entry, and modern interiors. The large site provides spectacular views of the restored prairie landscape. All four sides of this home are refined and architecturally resolved since each elevation is highly visible in the open prairie setting. Properly locating the home on the site was critical to maintaining the stunning prairie views. The home is nestled behind a hill instead of sitting on top of it, so it is blocked from the neighbors and respects their views. Natural materials adorn the exterior, including cedar, stone, stucco, and copper, that act as “jewelry” for the home. The cedar and copper will patina with time, adding richness and texture to the home. Front Door: The custom front door is 4 feet wide by 8 feet tall. It is paired with a matching fixed panel, so the door appears to be 8 feet wide from the outside, and is painted a cheery bright blue to greet visitors. The intentional placement of color adds vibrancy throughout the home in contrast to the quiet exterior colors. The bold pops of color requested by the client continue on the interior of the home, including a turquoise dining room, magenta closet doors, and a deep blue basement. Lantern Staircase: A triple-height stair floating in front of 18-foot-high windows welcomes visitors. At night, a hidden, remote controlled retractable shade scrim (lightweight shade) limits light pollution to follow the Dark Skies Initiative. Great Room: Cased openings of white oak create transition spaces and frame views to and from the grand, two-story great room. The entry and dining room have cozy 8-foot ceilings and are perched 12” up from the great room for views over the living room furniture. To avoid dining chairs sliding over the steps, a custom built-in credenza sits on the steps behind the dining table. Folding Outswing Door: The 20’ wide by 9.5’ tall folding outswing door blurs the line between outside and inside. A hidden bi-parting retractable bug screen allows the large door to remain open throughout the day to bring in fresh air. Catwalk: A catwalk, or raised walkway, on the upper floor overlooks the great room and leads to the guest suites. A long bench with built-in linen storage is tucked into a niche with clerestory windows, providing a cozy spot for guests to relax. Guest laundry is tucked into the backside of the fireplace chimney. Owner's Suite: From the start, the owners wanted their bedroom perched on the second level to maximize views of the prairie beyond. Located in its own wing of the home, the owners’ suite offers privacy. Magenta closet doors guide the owners into the bedroom and adjacent bathroom. Lifestyle: The home incorporates numerous lifestyle features that are as much a part of the house as the main spaces. A sauna is located on the main level, allowing for easy access after a dip in the pool and a wine cellar is tucked neatly under the staircase for convenient and beautiful display.

This designer’s ideal is homeowners with a clear vision, set priorities, and values that align seamlessly with ours. These clients, an accomplished artist and the owner of a generational hops growing farm, were collaborative and trusting from the start. They conscientiously selected a team of Architect (Green Hammer), General Contractor (Cellar Ridge) and ATIID for furnishings and finishing touches. Each firm was able to meticulously manage their leg of the project, while collaborating wholistically with each other and the homeowners. The family farmhouse, lovingly named “Westwood,” was showing the wear one expects after serving a growing family for decades. The owner’s dream was to revive, open up, and breathe modern life into each space, while respecting the home’s heritage. One of our first collaborations was the light fixture that would grace the main two-story entry hall. HiiH Lights in Astoria, Oregon, was commissioned to bring “the function of light, the craft of paper, and the art of sculpture” to the home. Visiting the maker’s space – a massive barn on his coastal property – was such an inspiring adventure! Original work by the resident artist sets an ethereal tone in the space, and an antique bench handsomely blends the old with the new. A wall that divided the home’s living room and kitchen was removed, and the breezy and bright gathering room was born. Light walls, warm wood tones, cozy upholstery, clean lines and heritage elements create a welcoming atmosphere and invite lounging and conversation. The sun-drenched nook is the home’s main indoor dining area, with an extension table and sculpted chairs that are just right for family gatherings or morning rituals with the Sunday paper. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with every modern amenity, but its casual attitude is “let’s make a mess and eat!” The owner’s artwork graces the mantel over the new fireplace that was carved from a tree felled on the property, illustrating the thoughtful consideration of each element. The muted wool area rugs in the entryways and great room are hard-wearing for farm life, and the furniture’s classic lines, bold contrasting colors, deep seating and soft textures encourage cozy conversations or large group gatherings. The library is undoubtedly our favorite space in this home. Tucked in “speakeasy style” behind a hidden (wallpapered!) door in the moody wet bar, and drenched in deep green, the room offers a quiet retreat that hugs you in an embrace of books and family photos. The cozy settee nestled between the bookcases sits opposite a custom pair of modern cognac leather wing chairs. The area rug continues the storied look without the antique price tag with a piece from Loloi’s “Heritage Collection.” A little va-va-voom was requested for the powder bath and boy did we deliver! Custom wallpaper plays over original wainscotting and ceilings wrapped in more glorious green. The space evokes joy every time you open the door! A primary suite that would “transport us to another world” and be “classic yet modern, peaceful, collected and uncluttered” was a tall order. Our new furniture layout takes full advantage of the view of wine country hills and the Willamette River, welcomes fireside lounging, and serves as a calm respite for the lovely owners. Westwood Farmhouse truly was inspired by family, genuine love for home and graciousness for all who enter. Finishing the job was emotional for all involved because we were truly made to feel like part of the family. Photography by George Barberis

This designer’s ideal is homeowners with a clear vision, set priorities, and values that align seamlessly with ours. These clients, an accomplished artist and the owner of a generational hops growing farm, were collaborative and trusting from the start. They conscientiously selected a team of Architect (Green Hammer), General Contractor (Cellar Ridge) and ATIID for furnishings and finishing touches. Each firm was able to meticulously manage their leg of the project, while collaborating wholistically with each other and the homeowners. The family farmhouse, lovingly named “Westwood,” was showing the wear one expects after serving a growing family for decades. The owner’s dream was to revive, open up, and breathe modern life into each space, while respecting the home’s heritage. One of our first collaborations was the light fixture that would grace the main two-story entry hall. HiiH Lights in Astoria, Oregon, was commissioned to bring “the function of light, the craft of paper, and the art of sculpture” to the home. Visiting the maker’s space – a massive barn on his coastal property – was such an inspiring adventure! Original work by the resident artist sets an ethereal tone in the space, and an antique bench handsomely blends the old with the new. A wall that divided the home’s living room and kitchen was removed, and the breezy and bright gathering room was born. Light walls, warm wood tones, cozy upholstery, clean lines and heritage elements create a welcoming atmosphere and invite lounging and conversation. The sun-drenched nook is the home’s main indoor dining area, with an extension table and sculpted chairs that are just right for family gatherings or morning rituals with the Sunday paper. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with every modern amenity, but its casual attitude is “let’s make a mess and eat!” The owner’s artwork graces the mantel over the new fireplace that was carved from a tree felled on the property, illustrating the thoughtful consideration of each element. The muted wool area rugs in the entryways and great room are hard-wearing for farm life, and the furniture’s classic lines, bold contrasting colors, deep seating and soft textures encourage cozy conversations or large group gatherings. The library is undoubtedly our favorite space in this home. Tucked in “speakeasy style” behind a hidden (wallpapered!) door in the moody wet bar, and drenched in deep green, the room offers a quiet retreat that hugs you in an embrace of books and family photos. The cozy settee nestled between the bookcases sits opposite a custom pair of modern cognac leather wing chairs. The area rug continues the storied look without the antique price tag with a piece from Loloi’s “Heritage Collection.” A little va-va-voom was requested for the powder bath and boy did we deliver! Custom wallpaper plays over original wainscotting and ceilings wrapped in more glorious green. The space evokes joy every time you open the door! A primary suite that would “transport us to another world” and be “classic yet modern, peaceful, collected and uncluttered” was a tall order. Our new furniture layout takes full advantage of the view of wine country hills and the Willamette River, welcomes fireside lounging, and serves as a calm respite for the lovely owners. Westwood Farmhouse truly was inspired by family, genuine love for home and graciousness for all who enter. Finishing the job was emotional for all involved because we were truly made to feel like part of the family. Photography by George Barberis

Designer Janet Villafane of Villafane Design, LLC of Chester, New Jersey designed and executed this contemporary kitchen with Aston Smith of Bilotta Kitchens of New York. According to Villafane, “from the moment you meet this family you understand their priority in life is family and friends. We were looking for a design that, first and foremost, emphasized the occupants’ request to have a home that was inviting to all that entered. We continued to focus on that request throughout the design phase.” In addition, the design team needed to satisfy the needs of a disabled family member. They wanted him to be able to flow through all areas of the space and feel as if he could comfortably use the open kitchen and family room without any hindrance. The clients were inspired by clean lines and simplicity. When they spoke about their modern Florida home, one could hear and see their enthusiasm and excitement to bring that simplicity into their new home. It became evident early on that their new space should be contemporary but the home’s exterior, as well as the neighboring community, had an old world, traditional charm. The goal was to avoid competing aesthetics while respecting both looks. The resulting interior design incorporated slab doors with both semi-gloss white lacquer and grey stain on horizontal grained oak. The rich dark oak base cabinets perfectly balanced the ceiling beams. The use of a stainless channel system, in place of traditional hardware, and the stainless toe kick completed the design. The Bertazzoni cooktop and wall ovens in stainless steel, Sub-Zero refrigeration paneled in white semi-gloss, and a stainless steel chimney hood enhanced the clean, uninterrupted lines. The island countertop is Thunder White granite in a leathered finish; the perimeter is Super White Quartz; and the nook table is Virginia Mist honed granite. The backsplash is a frosted glass tile. The clients hope for quality, simplicity and functionality were beautifully achieved by the designers. Closed, solid front cabinets provide a “home” for everything in the kitchen. A seating nook with a large screen TV, as well as additional TVs visible throughout the kitchen and family room, satisfied the demand of watching multiple sporting events at one time. To finish it all off decorative lighting was carefully selected to make a “wow” statement. Designer: Janet Villafane of Villafane Design LLC Bilotta Designer: Aston Smith Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

A respectful renovation balances historical preservation and contemporary design. A historic log cabin, reimagined for a preservation-minded couple. Working with the architect, we thoughtfully swapped extraneous wood for panoramic windows and steel I-beams. The resulting interior feels simultaneously seamless and sophisticated, open and intimate. Layers of texture lend intrigue throughout: rustic timber walls complement the client’s contemporary art collection; plush upholstery softens such as a copious cobalt sectional soften minimalist lines of metal; cozy nooks, like one bridging the living room and master suite, invite relaxation. The master transforms the historic core of the cabin into a refuge defined by logs darkened to near black. Catering to keen chefs, we designed a gourmet kitchen as functional as it is flawless; opting out of a dining room in favor of a larger family area, the expansive kitchen island seats six. Every careful detail reflects the synergy we felt with this client and their respect for both history and design.

Studio Terrain’s landscape design was crafted to complement this beautifully remodeled double A-frame Eichler home located in Castro Valley. We aimed to preserve the iconic style of the home while enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the outdoor spaces. The home’s mid-century modern architecture was originally designed by renowned architects Claude Oakland and Jones & Emmons. These architects designed roughly 185 homes on the hillside community capturing beautiful views and further elevating the landscape connection to its surroundings. Drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design principles, we emphasized clean lines, simplicity, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The outdoor space features multiple decks, patios, a gas fire pit, and a built-in gas BBQ, all thoughtfully integrated to align with the architectural style of the home. The spacious lawn and outdoor living areas offer versatile spaces for relaxation and entertaining, framed by panoramic bay views and stunning sunsets. Our design approach respected the home’s original character, seamlessly blending modern elements with Eichler’s architectural vision. By maintaining open sightlines and a fluid transition between interior and exterior spaces, we created an outdoor environment that enhances the home's aesthetic and provides a serene retreat.

Sommerhus is a private retreat for two empty-nesters. The clients purchased the previous cabin after falling in love with its location on a private, lakefront peninsula. However, this beautiful site was a challenging site to build on, due to its position sandwiched between the lake and protected wet land. The clients disliked the old cabin because it could only be used in the summer months, due to its lack of both insulation and heat. In addition, it was too small for their needs. They wanted to build a new, larger retreat, but were met with yet another constraint: the new cabin would be limited to the previous cabin’s small footprint. Thus, they decided to approach an architect to design their dream cabin. As the clients described, “We visited Denmark for a family wedding in 2015, and while biking near Gilleleje, a fishing village on the Baltic Sea, we fell in love with the aesthetic of ‘Sommerhus’: dark exteriors, clean, simple lines, and lots of windows.” We set out to design a cabin that fit this aesthetic while also meeting the site’s constraints. The clients were committed to keeping all existing trees on their site. In addition, zoning codes required the new retreat to stay within the previous cabin's small footprint. Thus, to maximize the square footage of the cabin without removing trees or expanding the footprint, the new structure had to grow vertically. At the same time, the clients wanted to be good neighbors. To them, this meant that their cabin should disappear into the woods, especially when viewed from the lake. To accomplish both these requests, the architect selected a dark exterior metal façade that would visually retreat into the trees. The metal siding is a modern, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solution, especially when compared to traditional wood siding. Warm wood on the soffits of the large roof overhang contrast with the metal siding. Sommerhus's resulting exterior is just as the clients’ requested: boldly modern yet respectful of the serene surroundings. The homeowners desired a beach-house-inspired interior, full of light and warmth, in contrast to the dark exterior. As the homeowner explained, “I wanted it to feel like a porch inside.” To achieve this, the living room has two walls of sliding glass doors that connect to the wrap-around porch. This creates a beautiful, indoor-outdoor living space. The crisp and bright kitchen also connects to the porch with the window that opens to an outdoor counter - perfect for passing food and drinks to those lounging on the porch. The kitchen is open to the rest of the first-floor entertaining space, and brings a playful, beach-house feel to the cabin. After the completion of the project, the homeowners remarked, “Working with Christopher and Eric [of CSA] was a wonderful experience. We absolutely love our home, and each season on the lake is more special than the last.”

Sommerhus is a private retreat for two empty-nesters. The clients purchased the previous cabin after falling in love with its location on a private, lakefront peninsula. However, this beautiful site was a challenging site to build on, due to its position sandwiched between the lake and protected wet land. The clients disliked the old cabin because it could only be used in the summer months, due to its lack of both insulation and heat. In addition, it was too small for their needs. They wanted to build a new, larger retreat, but were met with yet another constraint: the new cabin would be limited to the previous cabin’s small footprint. Thus, they decided to approach an architect to design their dream cabin. As the clients described, “We visited Denmark for a family wedding in 2015, and while biking near Gilleleje, a fishing village on the Baltic Sea, we fell in love with the aesthetic of ‘Sommerhus’: dark exteriors, clean, simple lines, and lots of windows.” We set out to design a cabin that fit this aesthetic while also meeting the site’s constraints. The clients were committed to keeping all existing trees on their site. In addition, zoning codes required the new retreat to stay within the previous cabin's small footprint. Thus, to maximize the square footage of the cabin without removing trees or expanding the footprint, the new structure had to grow vertically. At the same time, the clients wanted to be good neighbors. To them, this meant that their cabin should disappear into the woods, especially when viewed from the lake. To accomplish both these requests, the architect selected a dark exterior metal façade that would visually retreat into the trees. The metal siding is a modern, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solution, especially when compared to traditional wood siding. Warm wood on the soffits of the large roof overhang contrast with the metal siding. Sommerhus's resulting exterior is just as the clients’ requested: boldly modern yet respectful of the serene surroundings. The homeowners desired a beach-house-inspired interior, full of light and warmth, in contrast to the dark exterior. As the homeowner explained, “I wanted it to feel like a porch inside.” To achieve this, the living room has two walls of sliding glass doors that connect to the wrap-around porch. This creates a beautiful, indoor-outdoor living space. The crisp and bright kitchen also connects to the porch with the window that opens to an outdoor counter - perfect for passing food and drinks to those lounging on the porch. The kitchen is open to the rest of the first-floor entertaining space, and brings a playful, beach-house feel to the cabin. After the completion of the project, the homeowners remarked, “Working with Christopher and Eric [of CSA] was a wonderful experience. We absolutely love our home, and each season on the lake is more special than the last.”

Designer Janet Villafane of Villafane Design, LLC of Chester, New Jersey designed and executed this contemporary kitchen with Aston Smith of Bilotta Kitchens of New York. According to Villafane, “from the moment you meet this family you understand their priority in life is family and friends. We were looking for a design that, first and foremost, emphasized the occupants’ request to have a home that was inviting to all that entered. We continued to focus on that request throughout the design phase.” In addition, the design team needed to satisfy the needs of a disabled family member. They wanted him to be able to flow through all areas of the space and feel as if he could comfortably use the open kitchen and family room without any hindrance. The clients were inspired by clean lines and simplicity. When they spoke about their modern Florida home, one could hear and see their enthusiasm and excitement to bring that simplicity into their new home. It became evident early on that their new space should be contemporary but the home’s exterior, as well as the neighboring community, had an old world, traditional charm. The goal was to avoid competing aesthetics while respecting both looks. The resulting interior design incorporated slab doors with both semi-gloss white lacquer and grey stain on horizontal grained oak. The rich dark oak base cabinets perfectly balanced the ceiling beams. The use of a stainless channel system, in place of traditional hardware, and the stainless toe kick completed the design. The Bertazzoni cooktop and wall ovens in stainless steel, Sub-Zero refrigeration paneled in white semi-gloss, and a stainless steel chimney hood enhanced the clean, uninterrupted lines. The island countertop is Thunder White granite in a leathered finish; the perimeter is Super White Quartz; and the nook table is Virginia Mist honed granite. The backsplash is a frosted glass tile. The clients hope for quality, simplicity and functionality were beautifully achieved by the designers. Closed, solid front cabinets provide a “home” for everything in the kitchen. A seating nook with a large screen TV, as well as additional TVs visible throughout the kitchen and family room, satisfied the demand of watching multiple sporting events at one time. To finish it all off decorative lighting was carefully selected to make a “wow” statement. Designer: Janet Villafane of Villafane Design LLC Bilotta Designer: Aston Smith Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

A respectful renovation balances historical preservation and contemporary design. A historic log cabin, reimagined for a preservation-minded couple. Working with the architect, we thoughtfully swapped extraneous wood for panoramic windows and steel I-beams. The resulting interior feels simultaneously seamless and sophisticated, open and intimate. Layers of texture lend intrigue throughout: rustic timber walls complement the client’s contemporary art collection; plush upholstery softens such as a copious cobalt sectional soften minimalist lines of metal; cozy nooks, like one bridging the living room and master suite, invite relaxation. The master transforms the historic core of the cabin into a refuge defined by logs darkened to near black. Catering to keen chefs, we designed a gourmet kitchen as functional as it is flawless; opting out of a dining room in favor of a larger family area, the expansive kitchen island seats six. Every careful detail reflects the synergy we felt with this client and their respect for both history and design.

A respectful renovation balances historical preservation and contemporary design. A historic log cabin, reimagined for a preservation-minded couple. Working with the architect, we thoughtfully swapped extraneous wood for panoramic windows and steel I-beams. The resulting interior feels simultaneously seamless and sophisticated, open and intimate. Layers of texture lend intrigue throughout: rustic timber walls complement the client’s contemporary art collection; plush upholstery softens such as a copious cobalt sectional soften minimalist lines of metal; cozy nooks, like one bridging the living room and master suite, invite relaxation. The master transforms the historic core of the cabin into a refuge defined by logs darkened to near black. Catering to keen chefs, we designed a gourmet kitchen as functional as it is flawless; opting out of a dining room in favor of a larger family area, the expansive kitchen island seats six. Every careful detail reflects the synergy we felt with this client and their respect for both history and design.

This project involved a full upgrade of window treatments for a traditional sash bay and adjacent tall windows. The goal was to improve light control, thermal performance, and aesthetics by installing made‑to‑measure plantation shutters and bespoke blinds. The result is a cohesive, high‑quality finish that respects the property’s character while adding modern convenience. Scope of Work - Full site survey and precise measuring of all windows. - Manufacture and supply of bespoke plantation shutters for the bay sections. - Supply and installation of made‑to‑measure roller blinds with blackout lining for tall sash windows. - Motorisation for long‑drop blinds where required, plus wiring and testing. - Final adjustments, sealing, and a quality inspection. Challenges and Solutions - Long drop blinds: For windows with a 3 m drop we specified reinforced headrails and high‑torque motors to prevent sagging and ensure smooth operation. - Sash window geometry: Custom shutter panels were designed to fit bay angles and sash reveals, using discreet fixings to preserve original frames. - Insulation and noise reduction: We selected thicker louvres and lined blinds to improve thermal retention and reduce external noise. Results and Benefits - Improved comfort: Noticeable reduction in drafts and better temperature control. - Enhanced light control: Motorised blinds provide effortless, precise daylight management. - Aesthetic upgrade: A unified, premium finish that complements the sash architecture. - Increased property appeal: The upgrade enhances perceived value and homeowner satisfaction. For a free on‑site measure and quote in Cumbernauld and the greater Glasgow area, contact us to schedule a visit. We document each project with before and after photos to showcase workmanship and results.

Designer Janet Villafane of Villafane Design, LLC of Chester, New Jersey designed and executed this contemporary kitchen with Aston Smith of Bilotta Kitchens of New York. According to Villafane, “from the moment you meet this family you understand their priority in life is family and friends. We were looking for a design that, first and foremost, emphasized the occupants’ request to have a home that was inviting to all that entered. We continued to focus on that request throughout the design phase.” In addition, the design team needed to satisfy the needs of a disabled family member. They wanted him to be able to flow through all areas of the space and feel as if he could comfortably use the open kitchen and family room without any hindrance. The clients were inspired by clean lines and simplicity. When they spoke about their modern Florida home, one could hear and see their enthusiasm and excitement to bring that simplicity into their new home. It became evident early on that their new space should be contemporary but the home’s exterior, as well as the neighboring community, had an old world, traditional charm. The goal was to avoid competing aesthetics while respecting both looks. The resulting interior design incorporated slab doors with both semi-gloss white lacquer and grey stain on horizontal grained oak. The rich dark oak base cabinets perfectly balanced the ceiling beams. The use of a stainless channel system, in place of traditional hardware, and the stainless toe kick completed the design. The Bertazzoni cooktop and wall ovens in stainless steel, Sub-Zero refrigeration paneled in white semi-gloss, and a stainless steel chimney hood enhanced the clean, uninterrupted lines. The island countertop is Thunder White granite in a leathered finish; the perimeter is Super White Quartz; and the nook table is Virginia Mist honed granite. The backsplash is a frosted glass tile. The clients hope for quality, simplicity and functionality were beautifully achieved by the designers. Closed, solid front cabinets provide a “home” for everything in the kitchen. A seating nook with a large screen TV, as well as additional TVs visible throughout the kitchen and family room, satisfied the demand of watching multiple sporting events at one time. To finish it all off decorative lighting was carefully selected to make a “wow” statement. Designer: Janet Villafane of Villafane Design LLC Bilotta Designer: Aston Smith Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

Studio Terrain’s landscape design was crafted to complement this beautifully remodeled double A-frame Eichler home located in Castro Valley. We aimed to preserve the iconic style of the home while enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the outdoor spaces. The home’s mid-century modern architecture was originally designed by renowned architects Claude Oakland and Jones & Emmons. These architects designed roughly 185 homes on the hillside community capturing beautiful views and further elevating the landscape connection to its surroundings. Drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design principles, we emphasized clean lines, simplicity, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The outdoor space features multiple decks, patios, a gas fire pit, and a built-in gas BBQ, all thoughtfully integrated to align with the architectural style of the home. The spacious lawn and outdoor living areas offer versatile spaces for relaxation and entertaining, framed by panoramic bay views and stunning sunsets. Our design approach respected the home’s original character, seamlessly blending modern elements with Eichler’s architectural vision. By maintaining open sightlines and a fluid transition between interior and exterior spaces, we created an outdoor environment that enhances the home's aesthetic and provides a serene retreat.