This project, located within the Camino Del Mar 'beach community', posed an interesting challenge. The project sits within the low lying areas of the San Dieguito River flood plain which required that the building finished floor be set at an elevation 7'-0" above the existing grade. Our goal in dealing with the flood plain requirements and the floor area restrictions was to create a simple, efficient plan that would maximize light, air and privacy, as well as have a strong connection between indoor and outdoor living. We have chosen durable materials appropriate to the neighborhood context that would perform well under a marine environment and satisfy the client's desire for an "autheticity of materials" with a contemporary aesthetic.

This project the home sat at the top of the hill with breathtaking views all around. The challenge was restrictions that dictated the placement of the pool a distance from the house. The final design was very pleasing with the swimming pool on the slope with these amazing views. A walkway leads from the side of the home to the pool gate. On entering the pool area, reveals a spa cascading into the pool, ample Techo-Bloc paver pool decking, and the valley laid out below. Photography by Michel Bonomo

Michal Utterback
This is an example of a modern landscaping in Los Angeles.

Previously, the lower level was an overgrown marshland covered in brambles and coyote paths. The pond was restored, and includes an ironwood deck with a golfing green mat, fire pit, and BBQ area. A filtration system for the pond gives the homeowner the ability to maintain landscaping year round despite water restrictions.

Elegantly designed and robustly constructed, the rectangular-shaped Firebox 900SS uses less space than a traditional fireplace, allowing interior designers, builders and homeowners greater placement options and design flexibility. Free from traditional installation restrictions such as plumbing, roof work, gas or electricity connections make it the perfect heating solution for high-rise or basement installations.

Situated on the east edge of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the project site is an original lot of record that was subdivided from a larger lot that included the neighboring home. The resulting lot, at 3,060 square feet, was subject to additional land use constraints such as an eighteen foot height limit and restrictions on structure depth. These limitations are further compounded by taller homes to the south and west, a major arterial to the east, and topographic drop across the site. With few opportunities for the home to orient spaces outward, the design turns inward and upward.

Navigating the coastal terrain can be challenging. Beach stairs and walkways improve access and ease movement from one outdoor space to another.
Inspiration for a coastal two-story wood gable roof remodel in Boston

Lucian Hood Architect, Bldg Architecture is Saw Tooth similar to Sea Ranch. Addition under entire house due to height restriction Los Angeles Hillside Code, since built Los Angeles revised code to new Baseline Code, per revised code 2nd Floor addition may be allowed, but would need 2 more off street park? Note: the raised parking, 1 car each side req'd for off street parking, code.

This back yard pool features two pools in one! A lap pool that ends with a larger area for relaxed swimming. Artificial turf grass helps with low maintenance and water restrictions in the heat of the San Antonio summer. Julie Nader - Photography credit

This mixed-income housing development on six acres in town is adjacent to national forest. Conservation concerns restricted building south of the creek and budgets led to efficient layouts. All of the units have decks and primary spaces facing south for sun and mountain views; an orientation reflected in the building forms. The seven detached market-rate duplexes along the creek subsidized the deed restricted two- and three-story attached duplexes along the street and west boundary which can be entered through covered access from street and courtyard. This arrangement of the units forms a courtyard and thus unifies them into a single community. The use of corrugated, galvanized metal and fiber cement board – requiring limited maintenance – references ranch and agricultural buildings. These vernacular references, combined with the arrangement of units, integrate the housing development into the fabric of the region. A.I.A. Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Citation 2008 Project Year: 2009

This cozy lake cottage skillfully incorporates a number of features that would normally be restricted to a larger home design. A glance of the exterior reveals a simple story and a half gable running the length of the home, enveloping the majority of the interior spaces. To the rear, a pair of gables with copper roofing flanks a covered dining area and screened porch. Inside, a linear foyer reveals a generous staircase with cascading landing. Further back, a centrally placed kitchen is connected to all of the other main level entertaining spaces through expansive cased openings. A private study serves as the perfect buffer between the homes master suite and living room. Despite its small footprint, the master suite manages to incorporate several closets, built-ins, and adjacent master bath complete with a soaker tub flanked by separate enclosures for a shower and water closet. Upstairs, a generous double vanity bathroom is shared by a bunkroom, exercise space, and private bedroom. The bunkroom is configured to provide sleeping accommodations for up to 4 people. The rear-facing exercise has great views of the lake through a set of windows that overlook the copper roof of the screened porch below.

A large, less restrictive space can sometimes be a challenge to remodel as the possibilities are truly unlimited. The goal was to create a functional and warm space that still felt open, clean and utilized the large space well. Custom glass panel cabinetry with sliding doors and a central drawer bank features ample storage and even multiple standard outlets inside. Vessel sinks sit atop the custom quartz counters that compliment the stone resin free standing bath. On the back side of the central wall is a walk in, from both sides, his and hers shower. Custom tile through out ties both sides of this large bath together. The shower features multiple niches.

This contemporary backyard oasis offers our clients indoor-outdoor living for year-round relaxation and entertaining. The custom rectilinear swimming pool and stacked stone raised spa were designed to maximize the tight lot coverage restrictions while the cascading waterfalls and natural stone water feature add tranquility to the space. Panoramic doors create a beautiful transition between the interior and exterior spaces allowing for more entertaining options and increased natural light. The covered porch features retractable screens, ceiling-mounted infrared heaters, T&G ceiling and a stacked stone fireplace while a custom black iron spiral staircase leads you to the upper deck and modern style pergola offering you additional lounge seating and a stunning view of this private in-town sanctuary.

Hillside Trolley A great alternative to stairs to access your waterfront or hillside site. When physical restrictions or site conditions are a barrier for using your waterfront, consider a hillside trolley system. With it's smooth and easy operation, you will have new possibilities for your waterfront living. Also know as a funicular, hillside tram, cliff tram, or hillside elevator by The Dock Doctors will safely and easily transport you up and down your waterfront or hillside site.

This mixed-income housing development on six acres in town is adjacent to national forest. Conservation concerns restricted building south of the creek and budgets led to efficient layouts. All of the units have decks and primary spaces facing south for sun and mountain views; an orientation reflected in the building forms. The seven detached market-rate duplexes along the creek subsidized the deed restricted two- and three-story attached duplexes along the street and west boundary which can be entered through covered access from street and courtyard. This arrangement of the units forms a courtyard and thus unifies them into a single community. The use of corrugated, galvanized metal and fiber cement board – requiring limited maintenance – references ranch and agricultural buildings. These vernacular references, combined with the arrangement of units, integrate the housing development into the fabric of the region. A.I.A. Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Citation 2008 Project Year: 2009

This bathroom was very small, and in a condo you are restricted on where plumbing can go. Storage needs to be maximized so the old fashioned banjo top makes a comeback in quartz. The right side of the mirror is actually hiding pipes. Genius right? Using the same floor in the shower and the bathroom gives the sense of a large space. And crown moulding with L'rail to the ceiling gives an elegant look. We loved doing this condo project. Mark and Terry were so pleased with the results.

This mixed-income housing development on six acres in town is adjacent to national forest. Conservation concerns restricted building south of the creek and budgets led to efficient layouts. All of the units have decks and primary spaces facing south for sun and mountain views; an orientation reflected in the building forms. The seven detached market-rate duplexes along the creek subsidized the deed restricted two- and three-story attached duplexes along the street and west boundary which can be entered through covered access from street and courtyard. This arrangement of the units forms a courtyard and thus unifies them into a single community. The use of corrugated, galvanized metal and fiber cement board – requiring limited maintenance – references ranch and agricultural buildings. These vernacular references, combined with the arrangement of units, integrate the housing development into the fabric of the region. A.I.A. Wyoming Chapter Design Award of Citation 2008 Project Year: 2009

This young family in Richmond Hill had a shallow sloping lot on a ravine with such a sharp drop that it was impractical for most backyard activities. The dog ran around there but most family activities were restricted to the glass panelled porch. Betz provided a solution and helped to secure conservation approval for a four-foot retaining wall to level the area for a pool and patio.

A stylish, mid-century, high gloss cabinet was converted to custom vanity with vessel sink add a much needed refresh to this tiny powder room under the stairs. Dramatic navy against warm gold create mood in this small, restricted space.