The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

Salina Russell Photography
Inspiration for a large transitional attached three-car garage remodel in Raleigh

Framed by mature trees and nestled within Sarasota’s historic McClellan Park, Sunset Place is a home shaped by a deep understanding of, and sensibility for, its setting—reflecting the charm of the neighborhood, the rhythm of downtown living, and the client’s vision of entertaining, connection, and family life. Every decision—from site strategy to spatial flow—was made with intention: to support a lifestyle centered on warmth, community, and a strong sense of place. At its core, the project is a masterclass in leveraging zoning and code to unlock the full potential of a complex site. Though landlocked, the home lives like waterfront—offering openness, privacy, and expansive sunset views. Placing the pool in the front yard, within the 25-foot setback, redefines the entry experience. It captures the western light and sets a relaxed, resort-like tone from the very first step inside the gate. Paired with a rear-loaded garage, accessed discreetly via the side setback, the layout transforms the site’s limitations into its greatest assets. Architecture and landscape take center stage, while the full buildable envelope is maximized without compromise. A natural rise of eight feet from front to back—rare in Sarasota—was embraced as an opportunity. Site walls function as both retaining structures and architectural elements, elevating the pool terrace and entry by over four feet to align with the main interior floor level. The result is a fluid connection between indoors and out: kitchen, dining, and living spaces unfold onto the terrace, blurring boundaries and enhancing everyday rituals as well as social gatherings. Architecturally, the home is coastal contemporary: open yet composed, airy yet grounded. Clarity in the massing tells a story of the inhabitants from the first glance, while the interior planning offers spatial generosity and ease. The interiors echo this sensibility with a palette that is soft, natural, and tactile—serene without being neutral. The landscape design provides a lush tropical frame, softening edges and reinforcing privacy through layered plantings rather than enclosure. Ultimately, Sunset Place is not defined by any single gesture, but by the way the home reflects its owners. Their gracious, family-centered nature informed every layer of design—resulting in a space that feels deeply personal, tailored for connection and ease, and perfectly suited for gathering, unwinding, and watching the sun slip behind the trees from the comfort of home.

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

The owners of this historic house on a promontory surrounded by water asked Morpurgo Architects to maximize ocean views while expanding their home for their growing family. Conforming to The Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission’s requirements, our modifications to the existing structure are sympathetic to the original Stuccoed Mission-style and contextually in keeping with neighboring historic homes. This challenging site presented numerous constraints, including adherence to oceanfront setbacks and environmental and zoning regulations. We overcame imposing restrictions to develop a dynamic plan that fulfilled the clients’ programmatic and aesthetic needs. The kitchen was identified by our clients as the focal point of family activity. We maximized this lifestyle concept by developing the kitchen into a spacious living area with commanding views of the water. Renovations to the third floor allowed Morpurgo Architects to create an outdoor space offering a panorama of the historic surrounding communities.

single gate on a side driveway leading to the detached garage.
Contemporary exterior home idea in San Francisco

Framed by mature trees and nestled within Sarasota’s historic McClellan Park, Sunset Place is a home shaped by a deep understanding of, and sensibility for, its setting—reflecting the charm of the neighborhood, the rhythm of downtown living, and the client’s vision of entertaining, connection, and family life. Every decision—from site strategy to spatial flow—was made with intention: to support a lifestyle centered on warmth, community, and a strong sense of place. At its core, the project is a masterclass in leveraging zoning and code to unlock the full potential of a complex site. Though landlocked, the home lives like waterfront—offering openness, privacy, and expansive sunset views. Placing the pool in the front yard, within the 25-foot setback, redefines the entry experience. It captures the western light and sets a relaxed, resort-like tone from the very first step inside the gate. Paired with a rear-loaded garage, accessed discreetly via the side setback, the layout transforms the site’s limitations into its greatest assets. Architecture and landscape take center stage, while the full buildable envelope is maximized without compromise. A natural rise of eight feet from front to back—rare in Sarasota—was embraced as an opportunity. Site walls function as both retaining structures and architectural elements, elevating the pool terrace and entry by over four feet to align with the main interior floor level. The result is a fluid connection between indoors and out: kitchen, dining, and living spaces unfold onto the terrace, blurring boundaries and enhancing everyday rituals as well as social gatherings. Architecturally, the home is coastal contemporary: open yet composed, airy yet grounded. Clarity in the massing tells a story of the inhabitants from the first glance, while the interior planning offers spatial generosity and ease. The interiors echo this sensibility with a palette that is soft, natural, and tactile—serene without being neutral. The landscape design provides a lush tropical frame, softening edges and reinforcing privacy through layered plantings rather than enclosure. Ultimately, Sunset Place is not defined by any single gesture, but by the way the home reflects its owners. Their gracious, family-centered nature informed every layer of design—resulting in a space that feels deeply personal, tailored for connection and ease, and perfectly suited for gathering, unwinding, and watching the sun slip behind the trees from the comfort of home.

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

The owners of this historic house on a promontory surrounded by water asked Morpurgo Architects to maximize ocean views while expanding their home for their growing family. Conforming to The Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission’s requirements, our modifications to the existing structure are sympathetic to the original Stuccoed Mission-style and contextually in keeping with neighboring historic homes. This challenging site presented numerous constraints, including adherence to oceanfront setbacks and environmental and zoning regulations. We overcame imposing restrictions to develop a dynamic plan that fulfilled the clients’ programmatic and aesthetic needs. The kitchen was identified by our clients as the focal point of family activity. We maximized this lifestyle concept by developing the kitchen into a spacious living area with commanding views of the water. Renovations to the third floor allowed Morpurgo Architects to create an outdoor space offering a panorama of the historic surrounding communities.

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

Framed by mature trees and nestled within Sarasota’s historic McClellan Park, Sunset Place is a home shaped by a deep understanding of, and sensibility for, its setting—reflecting the charm of the neighborhood, the rhythm of downtown living, and the client’s vision of entertaining, connection, and family life. Every decision—from site strategy to spatial flow—was made with intention: to support a lifestyle centered on warmth, community, and a strong sense of place. At its core, the project is a masterclass in leveraging zoning and code to unlock the full potential of a complex site. Though landlocked, the home lives like waterfront—offering openness, privacy, and expansive sunset views. Placing the pool in the front yard, within the 25-foot setback, redefines the entry experience. It captures the western light and sets a relaxed, resort-like tone from the very first step inside the gate. Paired with a rear-loaded garage, accessed discreetly via the side setback, the layout transforms the site’s limitations into its greatest assets. Architecture and landscape take center stage, while the full buildable envelope is maximized without compromise. A natural rise of eight feet from front to back—rare in Sarasota—was embraced as an opportunity. Site walls function as both retaining structures and architectural elements, elevating the pool terrace and entry by over four feet to align with the main interior floor level. The result is a fluid connection between indoors and out: kitchen, dining, and living spaces unfold onto the terrace, blurring boundaries and enhancing everyday rituals as well as social gatherings. Architecturally, the home is coastal contemporary: open yet composed, airy yet grounded. Clarity in the massing tells a story of the inhabitants from the first glance, while the interior planning offers spatial generosity and ease. The interiors echo this sensibility with a palette that is soft, natural, and tactile—serene without being neutral. The landscape design provides a lush tropical frame, softening edges and reinforcing privacy through layered plantings rather than enclosure. Ultimately, Sunset Place is not defined by any single gesture, but by the way the home reflects its owners. Their gracious, family-centered nature informed every layer of design—resulting in a space that feels deeply personal, tailored for connection and ease, and perfectly suited for gathering, unwinding, and watching the sun slip behind the trees from the comfort of home.

The challenge of this project was to fulfill the clients' desire for a unique and modern second story addition that would blend harmoniously with the original 1930s bungalow. On the exterior, the addition appropriates the traditional materials of the existing home, while using contemporary proportions and lines to speak to a modern sensibility. Staggered massing and terraced roofs add to the visual interest and a harmonious balance in the design. On the interior, rich natural materials like oak and mahogany add warmth to the clean lines of the design. The design carefully frames stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. In each room, multi-directional natural light, views and cross-ventilation increase the comfort and expansiveness of the spaces Photography by: Studio Ceja

Photo by Tina Witherspoon.
Small transitional backyard stone patio photo in Seattle with a fire pit and no cover

Pixelate
Elegant kitchen photo in Cleveland

The homeowners were building a new home and wanted to incorporate a beautiful lakeside landscape design. The design was constrained by several factors, including lakeshore setbacks that limited development towards the lake and impacted sideyards, as well as strict impervious surface restrictions that limited installation options. To address these challenges, steppers and 3-foot pathways with planting beds were used to create connection spaces without affecting lot coverage. Despite these restrictions, the goals for the project were clear: create an open yard that maintains views of the lake, develop connected and versatile entertaining spaces, and use materials and colors that blend seamlessly with the house. The design also aimed to provide ample space for family and friends and incorporate a firepit area, hot tub, cooking area, longue beds, and dining area.

Geometric Pool with Spa: -Customized “design” to comply with setbacks to well/septic (initially client wanted a true rectangle) -Raised Spa with Blue Ridge & Tower Hill Granite veneer -Extra-large top step / sun-shelf -Dark Grey imported Granite coping -Paramount PV-R in-floor cleaning system (pool is 99% vacuum free without the need of any type robot) -Limestone Patio