This charming south Charlotte home was in need of a little TLC. The original builder-grade cabinets and countertops were outdated and ready for a change to more modern materials. The kitchen had a classic U-shaped layout that didn’t fit well with the space. The peninsula obstructed the work area and really restricted the movement around the kitchen. The work triangle was just right, but the honey toned wood cabinets and laminate countertops were definitely past their prime. So, we made some simple effective updates. The biggest change was getting rid of the peninsula totally and adding a brand new spacious built-in buffet area. This gave her so much more storage space, and the roll-out trays made everyday items easily accessible. We added a built-in trash can pullout so she could hide her trash can. We also made the cabinets a little taller, going from 30 inches to 36 inches for even more storage space. The added benefit of taller cabinets gave the kitchen a fresh and modern look. We also gave the laundry room a makeover and made it more functional with new cabinets over the washer and dryer for even more storage. We also replaced the flooring on the first floor with durable LVP flooring elevating the overall look and feel of the home. The whole project was completed in just 7 days, from start to finish.

A traditional 1926 cottage was transformed into a stunning, contemporary home. The focal point from both inside and out is a 3-story floating wood and stainless staircase, showcased by oversized windows and dramatic lighting. Walnut cabinetry with a distinct stain and natural slab surfaces offset the metals used throughout – Including at the interior and exterior of the fireplace. Reclaimed wood floors pay homage to the industrial area the home is situated in. In designing this home restrictions set forth by the building department were key. For instance, in order for the project to be considered a remodel the existing 8’ tall perimeter walls had to remain in place. The homeowners desperately wanted 9’ tall ceilings, so with crafty engineering and framing we were able to embellish the existing wall framing to achieve the added height. Clearstory windows allow much needed light into the spaces and creates the illusion of spaciousness, while maintaining wall areas for key furnishings and artwork. Every inch of space maximizes storage throughout the 2,600 square foot home. A cabinet for shoe storage immediately inside the front door also serves as a key component at the staircase and provides a platform to highlight sculptural artwork. Unique products and details, such as a metal link shower curtain and custom built-in guest beds with strategically placed outlets and horizontal surfaces to allow for electronics to be close at hand, elevate this home to the next level.

This amazing project in the Crystal Falls area of Leander, TX, includes a low-maintenance deck and custom cedar pergola. The deck was built with AZEK Coastline tongue and groove porch system. Coastline is a timeless light gray finish that is in perfect color harmony with the existing masonry. Archadeck of Austin also complimented the space with Fortress vertical cable rail.

Engineered cedar siding creates beautiful gray-blue tones at the exterior of the home, while adding a textural element to activate the simple exterior design.

Blue flowers of Ajuga repens 'Catlin's Giant' in spring Le jardinet
Design ideas for a traditional landscaping in Seattle.

This charming south Charlotte home was in need of a little TLC. The original builder-grade cabinets and countertops were outdated and ready for a change to more modern materials. The kitchen had a classic U-shaped layout that didn’t fit well with the space. The peninsula obstructed the work area and really restricted the movement around the kitchen. The work triangle was just right, but the honey toned wood cabinets and laminate countertops were definitely past their prime. So, we made some simple effective updates. The biggest change was getting rid of the peninsula totally and adding a brand new spacious built-in buffet area. This gave her so much more storage space, and the roll-out trays made everyday items easily accessible. We added a built-in trash can pullout so she could hide her trash can. We also made the cabinets a little taller, going from 30 inches to 36 inches for even more storage space. The added benefit of taller cabinets gave the kitchen a fresh and modern look. We also gave the laundry room a makeover and made it more functional with new cabinets over the washer and dryer for even more storage. We also replaced the flooring on the first floor with durable LVP flooring elevating the overall look and feel of the home. The whole project was completed in just 7 days, from start to finish.

THE SHADOW HOUSE IS A PRODUCT OF THE CONTEXT IT SITS WITHIN, YET IT SUBVERTS IT AT THE SAME TIME. IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE IT UP CLOSE, YET FROM AFAR IT DISAPPEARS INTO THE ETHER. A TINY LOT, A LARGE PROGRAM, RESTRICTIVE ZONING REGULATIONS AND AN INVOLVED NEIGHBORHOOD INTEREST GROUP WERE THE CONSTANT AND UNRELENTING PRESSURES THAT CREATED THIS HOUSE — AND THE RESULT IS BETTER OFF FOR IT. THE SCALLOPED SHINGLES ARE A COMMON ELEMENT ACROSS THE NEIGHBORHOOD, BUT ARE OFTEN RESERVED FOR DETAIL AREAS UNDER EAVES, AS THE MATERIAL WAS VERY EXPENSIVE ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO. WE TOOK THAT HIGHLY-SPECIALIZED, VERY EXCLUSIVE MATERIAL AND APPLIED IT AS A BROAD, MASS-PRODUCED TEXTURE ACROSS THE ENTIRE RESIDENCE — TAKING SOMETHING FROM HIGHLIGHT TO BACKGROUND TEXTURE. THE SILHOUETTE DIRECTLY ECHOES THE ITALIANATE HOMES IN THE LARGER NEIGHBORHOOD — BUT WE STRIPPED THE TYPICAL ORNATE, DECORATED FAÇADE BACK TO UTTER MINIMALISM. WE ENLARGED THE TYPICAL WINDOW SIZE TO EXAGGERATE THE RIGID SYMMETRY OF THE STYLE, AND BROUGHT THEM TO THE FLOOR AND THE CEILING TO PROVIDE AS MUCH LIGHT AS POSSIBLE — AND THEN RECESSED THEM DEEP INTO THE FAÇADE TO MIMIC THE HEAVY BRICK AND STONE LINTELS OF THE PAST. THE HOUSE IS BLACK — THE ONLY COLOR IT COULD BE. IF WE’D PAINTED IT UP LIKE ITS VICTORIAN SISTERS, IT WOULD’VE COMPETED FOR ATTENTION. BLACK CAUSES THE HOUSE TO SIMULTANEOUSLY DISAPPEAR AND STAND OUT — IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE WHILE YOU’RE WALKING PAST, BUT A FEW BLOCKS AWAY IT BECOMES IMPOSSIBLE TO DISCERN AGAINST THE BACKGROUND. TWO BEDROOMS WITH EN-SUITE BATHS, FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS, AN AIRY AND OPEN STAIRCASE AND A MASSIVE GLASS ROOF DOOR MAKE THE SHADOW HOUSE IMPOSSIBLY LIGHT AND OPEN — YET IT’S ONLY 1,400 SQUARE FEET ON A 30’ X 50’ LOT.

This comprehensive main floor remodel transformed a dated early-2000s home into a warm, distinctive space tailored for modern family life and effortless entertaining. Located in Northwest Indiana, the home’s renovation included the kitchen, living room, dining-to-sitting room conversion, office, mudroom, and laundry—each space reimagined with layered detail and a cohesive design language. The project’s primary goal was to move away from builder-grade finishes and create a home full of character and comfort. In the kitchen, we reworked the layout to improve flow—removing a restrictive peninsula, extending the island for added seating, and designing a custom hood and cabinetry plan that worked around existing structural beams. A warmer palette of earth tones and neutrals reflected the clients’ personal style, while upgraded lighting, a statement range, and a larger pantry elevated functionality. A double-sided fireplace connecting the kitchen and living room was redesigned to feel more intentional, with cohesive materials used on both faces. In the living area, a previously underwhelming wet bar became a standout moment with deep green cabinetry, a wine fridge, and built-in storage—adding both function and sophistication. Throughout the project, structural limitations and narrow footprints presented design challenges that were met with custom solutions—from a uniquely shaped island to intentional lighting plans that worked around ceiling beams. The final result is a highly personal, connected series of spaces that support both everyday routines and meaningful moments of gathering—infused with warmth, purpose, and a relaxed sense of luxury.

THE SHADOW HOUSE IS A PRODUCT OF THE CONTEXT IT SITS WITHIN, YET IT SUBVERTS IT AT THE SAME TIME. IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE IT UP CLOSE, YET FROM AFAR IT DISAPPEARS INTO THE ETHER. A TINY LOT, A LARGE PROGRAM, RESTRICTIVE ZONING REGULATIONS AND AN INVOLVED NEIGHBORHOOD INTEREST GROUP WERE THE CONSTANT AND UNRELENTING PRESSURES THAT CREATED THIS HOUSE — AND THE RESULT IS BETTER OFF FOR IT. THE SCALLOPED SHINGLES ARE A COMMON ELEMENT ACROSS THE NEIGHBORHOOD, BUT ARE OFTEN RESERVED FOR DETAIL AREAS UNDER EAVES, AS THE MATERIAL WAS VERY EXPENSIVE ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO. WE TOOK THAT HIGHLY-SPECIALIZED, VERY EXCLUSIVE MATERIAL AND APPLIED IT AS A BROAD, MASS-PRODUCED TEXTURE ACROSS THE ENTIRE RESIDENCE — TAKING SOMETHING FROM HIGHLIGHT TO BACKGROUND TEXTURE. THE SILHOUETTE DIRECTLY ECHOES THE ITALIANATE HOMES IN THE LARGER NEIGHBORHOOD — BUT WE STRIPPED THE TYPICAL ORNATE, DECORATED FAÇADE BACK TO UTTER MINIMALISM. WE ENLARGED THE TYPICAL WINDOW SIZE TO EXAGGERATE THE RIGID SYMMETRY OF THE STYLE, AND BROUGHT THEM TO THE FLOOR AND THE CEILING TO PROVIDE AS MUCH LIGHT AS POSSIBLE — AND THEN RECESSED THEM DEEP INTO THE FAÇADE TO MIMIC THE HEAVY BRICK AND STONE LINTELS OF THE PAST. THE HOUSE IS BLACK — THE ONLY COLOR IT COULD BE. IF WE’D PAINTED IT UP LIKE ITS VICTORIAN SISTERS, IT WOULD’VE COMPETED FOR ATTENTION. BLACK CAUSES THE HOUSE TO SIMULTANEOUSLY DISAPPEAR AND STAND OUT — IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE WHILE YOU’RE WALKING PAST, BUT A FEW BLOCKS AWAY IT BECOMES IMPOSSIBLE TO DISCERN AGAINST THE BACKGROUND. TWO BEDROOMS WITH EN-SUITE BATHS, FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS, AN AIRY AND OPEN STAIRCASE AND A MASSIVE GLASS ROOF DOOR MAKE THE SHADOW HOUSE IMPOSSIBLY LIGHT AND OPEN — YET IT’S ONLY 1,400 SQUARE FEET ON A 30’ X 50’ LOT.

This kitchen, designed by David Arnoff, features Bilotta Collection cabinetry in a classic Frosty White paint on the perimeter and Rift Cut White Oak with a “Driftwood” stain for the island. The kitchen prior to renovation had a small island and a peninsula that blocked the flow into the other rooms. It also had a massive wood hood that flanked both sides of the range all the way down to the countertop which was very cumbersome and restrictive. The client wanted to reuse their appliances which were fairly new. So the cabinetry had to be designed around those models but laid out with a much more functional flow. David chose to eliminate the existing peninsula to allow access to the sun room and living area. He opted instead for a larger island to give back the space lost by removing the peninsula. This gave the same amount of cabinet and counter space and was far more functional and easier to move around. Since the one wall of cabinets (where the main sink is) had no wall cabinets, David designed the opposite wall with double stacked cabinets for additional storage – with glass fronts for aesthetics. They also raised the custom hood, by Amore, allowing for more countertop space around the range. The countertops are polished quartz, Aurea Stone by Eastern Stone. The Backsplash is a basket weave marble from Greenwich Tile Marble. Sink and faucets by Kohler. Appliances are a mix of Subzero and Wolf. Designer: David Arnoff Photo Credit: Peter Krupenye

The Control/Shift House is perched on the high side of the site which takes advantage of the view to the southeast. A gradual descending path navigates the change in terrain from the street to the entry of the house. A series of low retaining walls/planter beds gather and release the earth upon the descent resulting in a fairly flat level for the house to sit on the top one third of the site. The entry axis is aligned with the celebrated stair volume and then re-centers on the actual entry axis once you approach the forecourt of the house. The initial desire was for an “H” scheme house with common entertaining spaces bridging the gap between the more private spaces. After an investigation considering the site, program, and view, a key move was made: unfold the east wing of the “H” scheme to open all rooms to the southeast view resulting in a “T” scheme. The new derivation allows for both a swim pool which is on axis with the entry and main gathering space and a lap pool which occurs on the cross axis extending along the lengthy edge of the master suite, providing direct access for morning exercise and a view of the water throughout the day. The Control/Shift House was derived from a clever way of following the “rules.” Strict HOA guidelines required very specific exterior massing restrictions which limits the lengths of unbroken elevations and promotes varying sizes of masses. The solution most often used in this neighborhood is one of addition - an aggregation of masses and program randomly attached to the inner core of the house which often results in a parasitic plan. The approach taken with the Control/Shift House was to push and pull program/massing to delineate and define the layout of the house. Massing is intentional and reiterated by the careful selection of materiality that tracks through the house. Voids and relief in the plan are a natural result of this method and allow for light and air to circulate throughout every space of the house, even into the most inner core. Photography: Charles Davis Smith

This gorgeous Mediterranean/Tuscan style home is perched on a hillside overlooking thousands of acres of Texas Hill Country. Everything about the home captures your interest and draws you in. The home was built with every room taking advantage of the incredible views. As you enter, the handmade brick ceiling entices you into the magnificent great room. Your eyes continue through the great room and are drawn to the huge picture window that looks out forever. The great room has a see through fireplace to the master bedroom, Saltillo tile floors, and a full bar with wine frig and icemaker. To the right of the foyer is a study with wooden floors, a half bath and also includes a nice size closet. To the left of the foyer is an open dining room with a cathedral ceiling and windows at the top allowing ample light to flow in. The dining room has wooden floors with a built-in buffet. The master bedroom has plush carpet, French doors that open out onto the veranda, fireplace, his/hers closets with built ins and a huge master bath complete with laundry room. The master bath has his/hers sinks with generous counter space, Jacuzzi tub and a walk- through shower with double heads. The enormous kitchen is open to the den area and also has incredible views. A large granite island houses the sink and leaves more than enough room for friends to visit while your chef is preparing the meal. Stainless steel double ovens, five burner gas stove, terracotta tile countertops with backsplash, and thermador frig and freezer. The den has a native stone fireplace and a large wall of built-ins for your T.V. and plenty of books and other décor. Saltillo tile floors cover the kitchen and den area. Next to the kitchen is a custom butler’s pantry with wood floors, terracotta tile counters, copper sink, a compact dishwasher plus a cutout into the wet bar area for ease of service. Two additional bedrooms with private baths are in the main home, with a separate 900 SF guest quarters that has a nice size living area, kitchenette, two bedrooms and a full bath. This incredible 4574+-SF estate is in a gated subdivision just minutes out of Kerrville and a stone’s throw from the eclectic Camp Verde General Store and Post Office. The home was custom built in 2004 with such attention to detail that it will stand the test of time and changing décor. The home sits on 30 acres in an area that is all wildlife exempt with superb restrictions to protect the homeowner’s investment.

Completed in 2011 this 4 BR, 3 1/2 bath custom home is situated on a very tight urban infill lot in Northern, Virginia. Our clients were relocating to the D.C. area from New England and wanted to retain some of the New England vernacular they were familiar with in their new home. Due to heavy zoning restrictions, stylistic CCR's and a large program of almost 7000 sf, our design response is a modern take on a traditional hipped 4-square. We intentionally kept the skin and form of the building simple in order to contain cost and allow for a higher level of interior finish. The main level employs our favorite Great Room scheme that merges cooking, eating and entertaining into one seamless space that flows onto an expansive deck overlooking the rear yard. The entry elevation welcomes guests with a traditional front porch and stone path that passes by a small rain garden. The basement accommodates a guest room, media room, exercise area, and full shop while the upper level orients 2 kid's bedrooms, a Jack-n-Jill bath and the master suite toward a territorial view of the rear yard. All of this program is housed beneath a hipped roof that minimizes the scale of the house while presenting a thoughtful appearance toward the street and neighbors.

Completed in 2011 this 4 BR, 3 1/2 bath custom home is situated on a very tight urban infill lot in Northern, Virginia. Our clients were relocating to the D.C. area from New England and wanted to retain some of the New England vernacular they were familiar with in their new home. Due to heavy zoning restrictions, stylistic CCR's and a large program of almost 7000 sf, our design response is a modern take on a traditional hipped 4-square. We intentionally kept the skin and form of the building simple in order to contain cost and allow for a higher level of interior finish. The main level employs our favorite Great Room scheme that merges cooking, eating and entertaining into one seamless space that flows onto an expansive deck overlooking the rear yard. The entry elevation welcomes guests with a traditional front porch and stone path that passes by a small rain garden. The basement accommodates a guest room, media room, exercise area, and full shop while the upper level orients 2 kid's bedrooms, a Jack-n-Jill bath and the master suite toward a territorial view of the rear yard. All of this program is housed beneath a hipped roof that minimizes the scale of the house while presenting a thoughtful appearance toward the street and neighbors.

The Control/Shift House is perched on the high side of the site which takes advantage of the view to the southeast. A gradual descending path navigates the change in terrain from the street to the entry of the house. A series of low retaining walls/planter beds gather and release the earth upon the descent resulting in a fairly flat level for the house to sit on the top one third of the site. The entry axis is aligned with the celebrated stair volume and then re-centers on the actual entry axis once you approach the forecourt of the house. The initial desire was for an “H” scheme house with common entertaining spaces bridging the gap between the more private spaces. After an investigation considering the site, program, and view, a key move was made: unfold the east wing of the “H” scheme to open all rooms to the southeast view resulting in a “T” scheme. The new derivation allows for both a swim pool which is on axis with the entry and main gathering space and a lap pool which occurs on the cross axis extending along the lengthy edge of the master suite, providing direct access for morning exercise and a view of the water throughout the day. The Control/Shift House was derived from a clever way of following the “rules.” Strict HOA guidelines required very specific exterior massing restrictions which limits the lengths of unbroken elevations and promotes varying sizes of masses. The solution most often used in this neighborhood is one of addition - an aggregation of masses and program randomly attached to the inner core of the house which often results in a parasitic plan. The approach taken with the Control/Shift House was to push and pull program/massing to delineate and define the layout of the house. Massing is intentional and reiterated by the careful selection of materiality that tracks through the house. Voids and relief in the plan are a natural result of this method and allow for light and air to circulate throughout every space of the house, even into the most inner core. Photography: Charles Davis Smith

Nestled at the end of a long flag lot driveway in Amagansett, NY, a young couple purchased the property with intentions to construct a second home for their growing family. A home that would not only be comfortable for the immediate family but also serve and grow on busy summer weekends to accommodate extended family, friends, children and guests. The tight lot along with the sizable program culminated in the building envelope being pushed to every limit, restriction and regulation one could imagine. The resulting architecture possesses a traditional Hamptons cottage exterior juxtaposed with modern elements that help break up the single mass. Centered on the entry façade is a large double story window that shrouds the floating switchback staircase on the interior. A bluestone patio wraps three sides of the home, which, in the rear, leads to a small in ground pool with a frameless glass railing. In the interior, custom white washed white oak floors run throughout the home as well as on the floating central staircase. For a more modern style of living, the open living, kitchen and dining area serve as one large entertaining space. In an area surrounded by sprawling Mcmansions, this tightly knit home functions more similar to that of a large NYC apartment by serving the perfect balance between maximized form with the right amount of function given the strict parameters. Large glass sliders open the living and dining rooms to the backyard patio and pool creating harmony between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Shaker style cabinets in the kitchen pair with a more contemporary staircase softened by the warmer wood tones of the vertical slats that surround it.

Completed in 2011 this 4 BR, 3 1/2 bath custom home is situated on a very tight urban infill lot in Northern, Virginia. Our clients were relocating to the D.C. area from New England and wanted to retain some of the New England vernacular they were familiar with in their new home. Due to heavy zoning restrictions, stylistic CCR's and a large program of almost 7000 sf, our design response is a modern take on a traditional hipped 4-square. We intentionally kept the skin and form of the building simple in order to contain cost and allow for a higher level of interior finish. The main level employs our favorite Great Room scheme that merges cooking, eating and entertaining into one seamless space that flows onto an expansive deck overlooking the rear yard. The entry elevation welcomes guests with a traditional front porch and stone path that passes by a small rain garden. The basement accommodates a guest room, media room, exercise area, and full shop while the upper level orients 2 kid's bedrooms, a Jack-n-Jill bath and the master suite toward a territorial view of the rear yard. All of this program is housed beneath a hipped roof that minimizes the scale of the house while presenting a thoughtful appearance toward the street and neighbors.

The clients had just bought the home and loved the inside but not the outside. They did not want the formal setting with Greek busts. Since remodeling the old pool would have restricted the new, they had it removed so they could start from scratch. Their favorite setting was much more organic with a cabana, fireplace, and an outdoor kitchen. The house needed an addition with an entertainment media room, cigar room and pool bath. Privacy was achieved by adding a cabana on the north side with a full stone wall. The spa needed to be close to the master bedroom and have visibility of the flat screen television in the cabana. The spa is flush with the upper patio so not to block the view of the pool. A natural boulder stream connects the pool and spa. To soften the house planting is between the cabana and house. Decks and coping are Travertine. Pebblesheen color is Ocean Blue. Access to the cabana was located between the spa and the pool on the floating pad. Remote controlled fire features accent both ends of the boulders. Retaining walls were built behind the waterfall to bring the grade up so plantings looked more natural and waterfalls appeared to come out of the hillside. The cabana features were to create three zones. It does not matter the season or time of day, this space provides the family's perfect outside setting to enjoy each other. Project designed by Mike Farley. Check out Mike's Reference Site at FarleyPoolDesigns.com for more info and videos.

Large minimalist brown two-story wood house exterior photo with a shed roof and a metal roof