Tucked away in a forested grove, the classic Shelter Island split-level beach home designed by local architect Ralph Cast offered the owners a chance to carve out a private getaway set within the essence of exclusivity. Looking to create a self-contained aesthetic environment that residents and guests could enjoy without leaving, RND designed a haven of outdoor living, complete with an outdoor living room and a dining area shaded beneath a pergola featuring Philip Stark lounge chairs and dining chairs. RND raised an elevated deck made from durable Ipe wood and stainless steel cabling, connecting the upper level of the house to a freestanding garage converted into an artist's studio. Inside, light and sturdy fabrics splashed with color from an almost-pastel palette meet the rigors of beach days and highlight the play of summer sun on wood flooring and furniture. RND's gourmet-inspired kitchen caters to every need, while the shady, graveled porch opens to a lolling green landscape offset by the blue rectangle of a gahnite pool. The aesthetic playground is hedged by a sculpture garden, a row of umbrella-shaded lounge chairs, and an outdoor dining room featuring custom designed chairs and a Stone Age-inspired table of roughly hewn stone slabs.

On a quiet street just steps from San Francisco’s beloved Dolores Park, a formerly modest urban structure has been transformed into a luminous vertical residence that quietly redefines contemporary city living. Through a comprehensive remodel and both vertical and horizontal expansion, the project turns a constrained urban footprint into a sequence of serene, art-forward living spaces that unfold upward toward expansive city views. The architecture balances restraint and warmth: crisp contemporary geometry softened by natural materials, artful lighting, and carefully curated interiors. The result is a home that feels simultaneously grounded and elevated—deeply connected to its neighborhood yet remarkably private. Reimagining the Urban Envelope The original building has been almost entirely reconceived. The facade now reads as a disciplined composition of plaster volumes and precisely detailed window openings framed by subtle projecting bands. The geometry references San Francisco’s classic rhythm of bayed facades while stripping the language down to a refined modern expression. Behind this quiet exterior lies a dramatically expanded interior volume. The redesign adds both additional floor area and new vertical circulation, transforming what was once a conventional city house into a multi-level architectural sequence organized around light, art, and views. At the roofline, planted terraces soften the building’s silhouette and create a green crown visible from surrounding hillsides. Interiors as a Sequence of Galleries Inside, the home unfolds as a series of spatial moments connected by a sculptural stair and gallery-like corridors. Wide plank oak floors run throughout, providing continuity and warmth against a palette of plaster walls, dark steel detailing, and natural stone. The hallways function almost as curated galleries, with layered artworks suspended in front of mesh panels that create depth and subtle shadow. Light filters through carefully placed windows and stair openings, transforming circulation spaces into contemplative transitions rather than mere passageways. A Living Room Anchored by Stone and Light The primary living room occupies one of the home’s central floors, where a quiet interplay of texture and geometry defines the space. A monumental fireplace wrapped in dark stone forms the room’s anchor, its mass contrasting with a recessed ceiling plane that seems to float above the seating area. Integrated perimeter lighting creates a soft architectural glow that washes the ceiling and walls. Furniture is sculptural yet understated—rounded lounge chairs in warm ochre velvet, tailored sofas, and a striking marble cocktail table whose expressive veining becomes a focal artwork in itself. Deep blue carpeting grounds the seating arrangement and subtly absorbs light, enhancing the calm atmosphere. Above the fireplace, a delicate projection artwork introduces a moment of visual poetry—an unexpected cinematic gesture that transforms the wall into a quietly animated canvas. Kitchen as Architectural Furniture The kitchen expresses a different register: crisp, tactile, and materially rich. Custom walnut cabinetry spans the wall in a continuous plane, punctuated only by the sculpted hood and integrated appliances. The wood’s depth and warmth are balanced by expanses of pale marble that flow seamlessly from countertop to backsplash. Three dome pendants hover above the island like industrial sculptures, casting pools of warm light onto the stone surface. A row of vivid red stools introduces a controlled burst of color, a small but confident departure from the otherwise restrained palette. Dining With a Living Backdrop Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining room opens toward a glass wall overlooking a vertical garden of climbing ivy. The greenery becomes a constantly changing backdrop—lush and shadowy during the day, atmospheric and cinematic after sunset. A dark wood table anchors the room, surrounded by pale oak chairs whose understated forms echo Scandinavian design traditions. The simplicity of the furniture allows the view and natural light to become the dominant experience. Intimate Spaces and Material Contrast Throughout the home, smaller rooms offer moments of intimacy and material experimentation. The powder room pairs textured wall coverings with a dramatic black marble vanity whose bold veining feels almost geological. A suspended mirror and slender pendant create a sculptural composition against the tactile backdrop. The primary bedroom, by contrast, feels serene and expansive. Floor-to-ceiling glazing frames sweeping views of the city, while soft textiles and warm wood paneling create a cocooning effect. Slender black columns subtly define a sitting area without interrupting the openness of the space. Bathing Above the City In the primary bathroom, a sculptural freestanding tub sits beside a panoramic window overlooking San Francisco’s hills and rooftops. The room’s palette—light oak, grey stone, and matte metals—reinforces the spa-like atmosphere. Floating cabinetry and integrated lighting maintain a sense of visual lightness despite the richness of the materials. Entertaining Above the Park Higher in the house, a lounge and bar area becomes the social heart of the home. Here, dark stone slabs with dramatic veining wrap the bar wall like a piece of monumental art. Open shelving displays glassware and spirits, while integrated wine storage hints at the home’s entertaining ambitions. A soft leather sectional and low glass table create a relaxed setting for conversation, framed by expansive views of the city skyline. Cinema and Retreat The lower level introduces yet another atmosphere: a dedicated media room designed for immersive viewing. Dark walls, plush seating, and soft lighting create a cinematic environment that contrasts intentionally with the airy upper floors. It’s a retreat within the home—intimate, quiet, and removed from the brightness above. Architecture That Balances Discipline and Warmth What makes the project particularly compelling is its balance between architectural discipline and lived warmth. Every element—from the carefully framed views to the restrained material palette—contributes to a cohesive spatial narrative. Yet the home never feels austere. Natural materials, curated art, and layered lighting create a sense of comfort and depth. The result is a house that feels both architecturally rigorous and deeply human. A Contemporary Interpretation of San Francisco Living In a neighborhood defined by historic homes and iconic park views, this transformation offers a contemporary interpretation of San Francisco living. It respects the city’s urban density while embracing openness, light, and vertical living. The home rises quietly above its surroundings, culminating in panoramic vistas that stretch across rooftops, hills, and sky. What began as a conventional structure has become something far more nuanced: a modern urban sanctuary—part gallery, part retreat, and wholly connected to the vibrant city just beyond its walls.

Set a warm greeting at your door with our coir doormat. Made with durable coconut husk, this mat will stand up to the rigors of daily use. Its welcome message and mountain range are printed with a no bleed dye, ensuring lasting color.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

Relax and unwind, right there in your own garden with the Gerald Outdoor Collection. This table features a 15mm glass and a black wicker top, built to withstand the rigors of every day use and the extremities of outdoor weather. Crafted from aluminum, the pedestal base has received an anodized treatment to protect the piece from rust. Matching stackable side chairs for easy storage featuring a stylish curved back. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choreographed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside, the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture, and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel, and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a McKay Otto sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Tucked away in a forested grove, the classic Shelter Island split-level beach home designed by local architect Ralph Cast offered the owners a chance to carve out a private getaway set within the essence of exclusivity. Looking to create a self-contained aesthetic environment that residents and guests could enjoy without leaving, RND designed a haven of outdoor living, complete with an outdoor living room and a dining area shaded beneath a pergola featuring Philip Stark lounge chairs and dining chairs. RND raised an elevated deck made from durable Ipe wood and stainless steel cabling, connecting the upper level of the house to a freestanding garage converted into an artist's studio. Inside, light and sturdy fabrics splashed with color from an almost-pastel palette meet the rigors of beach days and highlight the play of summer sun on wood flooring and furniture. RND's gourmet-inspired kitchen caters to every need, while the shady, graveled porch opens to a lolling green landscape offset by the blue rectangle of a gahnite pool. The aesthetic playground is hedged by a sculpture garden, a row of umbrella-shaded lounge chairs, and an outdoor dining room featuring custom designed chairs and a Stone Age-inspired table of roughly hewn stone slabs.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choreographed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside, the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture, and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel, and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a McKay Otto sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset. The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu . Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home. The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south. Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape. The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature. Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design. Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view. Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward. Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan Structural Engineer: ZFA Contractor: Maison D’Artiste Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2023

In the realm of kitchen and bathroom renovations, Covossi Solid Surface Countertops emerge as a superior choice for both residential and commercial applications, offering an unparalleled blend of durability, practicality, and cost efficiency. Designed to meet the demands of modern living, these countertops are an epitome of innovation and style, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance without compromising on aesthetics. Unmatched Durability Constructed with a top layer of ¼ inch solid polyester resin and supported by a robust 1¼ inch chipboard core, Covossi Solid Surface Countertops are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use. This unique composition offers exceptional resistance to stains, scratches, liquids, and impacts, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. Aesthetic Versatility One of the most compelling attributes of Covossi Solid Surface Countertops is the color consistency throughout the material. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of the countertops but also allows for easy repair of minor scratches. Damages can be effortlessly sanded out and polished, restoring the countertop to its original splendor. The material's seamless design further contributes to its aesthetic appeal, providing a sleek and unified look that elevates any space. Seamless and Hygienic The innovative seamless design of Covossi Solid Surface Countertops is not just about aesthetics; it also plays a crucial role in maintaining hygiene. By allowing the material to be sanded and joined in a way that cracks are virtually non-existent, it eliminates the collection of dirt and debris, making it an exceptionally hygienic option for kitchens and bathrooms. Ease of Installation and Maintenance Designed with practicality in mind, these countertops can be easily installed by a 1-2 person team using commonly used tools, making it a convenient choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers. The finished product exudes the luxury and sophistication of an expensive solid surface, without the hefty price tag. Warranty and Certification Covossi Solid Surfaces come with an 8-year Manufacturer Limited Warranty, offering peace of mind and assurance of quality. Additionally, being NSF Certified, these countertops meet strict standards for public health protection, further reinforcing their suitability for both residential and commercial settings. In conclusion, Covossi Solid Surface Countertops stand out as a smart investment for those seeking a blend of functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Whether for a home kitchen, bathroom, or a commercial space, these countertops promise to deliver performance and style that lasts.

Since founding her eponymous design firm, Sara Story has forged a reputation for imparting to all her projects an ineffable style she can truly call her own. Drawing inspiration from extensive travels, an active interest in contemporary art and fashion, and a rigorous lifestyle, Sara wields a keen eye to exact her aesthetic vision. Story designed a plan wherein each room would happen something surprising “each artwork is in conversation with another piece of art or a chair or a lamp”. With a neutral palette, Sara introduced elements to add some fun, color and bring the owners personality into every room. The modern interior design project is the perfect setting to appreciate the spectacular mountain views in Aspen.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner. The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choreographed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside, the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture, and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel, and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a McKay Otto sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

This custom home in the spectacular Two Dogs Subdivision is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. Designed by RLA Architects, the home was upgraded by Mantell-Hecathorn Builders to be an ultra-efficient, comfortable and durable home that showcases the beauty of the custom finish selections of the Owner. Built as a family retreat with a large rec room, alcove nooks and extensive custom cabinetry, this home maximizes outdoor livability with an expansive patio and fire pit that are perfect for enjoying the Colorado lifestyle. The owner specified many elegant touches including a beautifully crafted floating juniper countertop in the powder room that is inlaid with turquoise accents. This home achieved a HERS score of 33 without solar panels, making it 67% more efficient than a home built to County Code. Despite the demands of the mountain climate, this beautifully crafted family home earned the ZERO Energy Ready Certification Symbol of Excellence by meeting the rigorous standards set by the Department of Energy. It is also certified under the EPA’s Indoor AirPlus program to ensure a healthier living environment.

Modern Style your living room or bedroom into an exquisite retreat with the perfect area rug, an essential element that combines both style and practicality. A thoughtfully selected rug not only anchors the space but also infuses it with warmth, texture, and personality. Whether you're enhancing a cozy bedroom or designing a spacious living area, choosing the right rug is crucial to creating a harmonious and inviting environment. The design of your area rug can profoundly influence the overall ambiance of your room. For a touch of opulence, consider hand-tufted or hand-knotted rugs, which are renowned for their intricate patterns and luxurious textures. These rugs, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, make a sophisticated statement in any setting. If a contemporary aesthetic appeals to you, machine-woven rugs are an excellent choice. They are available in an array of vibrant patterns and hues and are engineered to endure high foot traffic with their durable heat-set fibers. For a versatile and classic option, flat-woven rugs, such as kilims, offer a reversible design that seamlessly integrates with both modern and traditional decor. When selecting a rug, the choice of material significantly impacts both its look and feel. Shag and flokati rugs are ideal for creating a sumptuous, inviting atmosphere. Their long, soft fibers provide unparalleled comfort underfoot, enhancing the coziness of your living room or bedroom. Hand-loomed rugs deliver unique textures and artisanal craftsmanship, while braided and hand-hooked rugs bring a delightful, handcrafted charm. For ease of maintenance, machine washable rugs are highly practical. They allow for effortless cleaning and help maintain a pristine appearance with minimal effort. In addition to aesthetics, the functionality of your rug is paramount. Stain-resistant and water-resistant rugs are perfect for managing spills and everyday wear, ensuring your rug remains pristine over time. Non-slip and adhesive backings are crucial for safety, particularly on hardwood floors, preventing any risk of slipping and ensuring the rug stays securely in place. Furthermore, cushioned rugs enhance comfort, making your space not only stylish but also extraordinarily comfortable. Personalize your space with bespoke or custom rug options. An 8x10 area rug is ideal for covering substantial areas and can be customized to fit specific dimensions or design preferences. Custom features, such as elegant fringe details or organic textures, allow you to craft a rug that reflects your unique style and complements your existing decor. The selection of the top 15 area rugs available today encompasses a wide range of styles and features to meet diverse needs. From distressed designs that impart character to sleek contemporary patterns that offer a modern touch, there is a rug to suit every taste. Large rugs for living rooms and bedrooms can define and unify the space, while oversized carpets can create a dramatic focal point. Consider the practical aspects of each rug to ensure it not only enhances your decor but also withstands the rigors of daily use. Ultimately, selecting the ideal area rug involves a delicate balance between aesthetic appeal and functional utility. Whether you opt for a luxurious hand-tufted piece, a resilient machine-woven design, or a versatile flat-woven style, the right rug will elevate your living space into a stylish and comfortable haven. By exploring a variety of options and carefully considering both design and practicality, you can find the perfect rug to transform your room into a beautifully appointed retreat.

Since founding her eponymous design firm, Sara Story has forged a reputation for imparting to all her projects an ineffable style she can truly call her own. Drawing inspiration from extensive travels, an active interest in contemporary art and fashion, and a rigorous lifestyle, Sara wields a keen eye to exact her aesthetic vision. Story designed a plan wherein each room would happen something surprising “each artwork is in conversation with another piece of art or a chair or a lamp”. With a neutral palette, Sara introduced elements to add some fun, color and bring the owners personality into every room. The modern interior design project is the perfect setting to appreciate the spectacular mountain views in Aspen.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choregraphed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a Page Kempner sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choreographed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside, the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture, and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel, and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a McKay Otto sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset. The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu . Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home. The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south. Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape. The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature. Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design. Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view. Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward. Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan Structural Engineer: ZFA Contractor: Maison D’Artiste Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2023