Virginia AIA Honor Award for Excellence in Residential Design | Vernacular geometries and contemporary openness. This house is designed around the simple concept of placing main living spaces and private bedrooms in separate volumes, and linking the two wings with a well-organized kitchen. In doing so, the southern living space becomes a pavilion that enjoys expansive glass openings and a generous porch. Maintaining a geometric self-confidence, this front pavilion possesses the simplicity of a barn, while its large, shadowy openings suggest shelter from the elements and refuge within. The south porch is shaded and screened with a cypress lattice wall. The western aspect is nothing but sky and field, as the house is sited to capitalize on the expansive, beautiful, and simple meeting of sky and grass.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

This private apartment in Shanghai, designed by Buschmeyer + Cai, features a custom Arcaico marble table by Kreoo. "We wanted to create a clean, modern, contemporary, yet harmonic and luxurious place. We liked the Arcaico (and Kreoo as well) for its pure geometry in contrast to the opulent use of materials. We combine leather, velvet (mohair), precious woods and marbles, gold and silver with simple shapes and geometries into every room in this space. Let's say grandeur in simplicity."

Reception seating at the Airoptic Research & Technology Office in Wysogotowo, designed by STUDIO KONDE Konrad Idaszewski Architekt, creates a dedicated lounge area for visitors, informal meetings and waiting. Visit our page: https://conde.pl/portfolio/projekt-wnetrz-biurowych-siedziby-firmy-airoptic/ The reception area is part of a larger office interior design project near Poznań. It shows how an interior architect in Poznań can use furniture, materials and spatial proportions to give a commercial interior a distinct character. Blue upholstered seating, natural oak wall panels and a dark rug establish the main visual language of the lounge. The composition is simple and symmetrical. A large media screen provides the central focal point, while the seating creates a clear area for conversations and informal meetings. A three-seat sofa stands along the left side of the room. Its blue upholstery has broad side panels and softly rounded edges. Matching armchairs are positioned opposite and alongside it. Slim black metal legs lift the furniture above the floor and add a light detail to the substantial upholstered forms. At the centre, a low coffee table combines a pale oak top with a rounded blue base. The softly curved corners repeat the geometry of the armchairs. Its compact form leaves a generous gap between the surrounding seats and keeps the circulation around the lounge unobstructed. Behind the furniture, large oak panels cover the entire wall. Fine horizontal and vertical joints divide the surface into a regular grid. A black wall-mounted television sits centrally within the composition and creates a strong contrast against the light timber. The simple media wall gives the reception seating a clear visual focus without additional decorative elements. A large dark brown rug defines the lounge area and visually connects the sofa, armchairs and coffee table. Its mottled surface adds subtle texture beneath the smooth upholstery. On the left, large green plants stand beside the glazing and bring natural colour into the restrained palette. White door frames and glazed openings remain visible around the timber wall. They connect the seating area with the circulation routes and other parts of the office. Daylight entering through the glazed entrance brightens the space and highlights the natural grain of the oak. The ceiling continues the office's restrained architectural language, combining a dark grid with integrated lighting. Linear illumination around the perimeter provides an even glow across the seating area. Oak panelling, blue contract furniture, a dark rug and carefully planned circulation create a cohesive reception lounge within the Airoptic workplace. The project reflects STUDIO KONDE Konrad Idaszewski Architekt's work in office interiors, commercial spaces and furniture arrangements for contemporary workplaces in the Poznań area.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

Simple lines and geometry; carefully placed plant material; natural materials - this is what makes this front garden so appealing. It possesses inherent balance.

St. Andrews Project — Primary Bathroom & Spa Retreat This St. Andrews primary bathroom is conceived as a private spa retreat, where material continuity, sculptural forms, and architectural restraint create a sense of understated luxury. The design intentionally avoids visual clutter, allowing the quality of the materials and precision of the detailing to define the space. The room is anchored by a dramatic marble-look stone that extends continuously across the shower enclosure and floor, creating a seamless visual envelope. The expressive veining introduces movement and natural variation, transforming what could otherwise be a minimal white bathroom into a richly layered composition. Carrying the stone through multiple surfaces also gives the room a sense of scale and architectural cohesion. The freestanding bathtub is treated as a sculptural object rather than simply a functional fixture. Its softly curved silhouette and vertically fluted exterior introduce an organic counterpoint to the linear geometry of the surrounding architecture. Positioned directly beneath the large black-framed window, the tub becomes a quiet focal point while taking advantage of abundant natural light and views toward the greenery beyond. Black-framed glass creates another important layer of contrast. The expansive shower enclosure and adjacent glazed opening establish a crisp graphic framework against the pale stone, while black plumbing fixtures and hardware reinforce the same architectural language. This repeated use of black creates visual continuity without overwhelming the light palette. The oversized window is particularly important to the atmosphere of the room. Instead of treating the bathroom as an enclosed, highly private environment, the design establishes a connection to nature, allowing daylight and greenery to become part of the experience. The result is a space that feels bright, open, and restorative. A restrained wooden stool introduces warmth and an organic material note against the stone and glass. Its natural finish prevents the monochromatic palette from feeling overly clinical, while the simple form complements the sculptural bathtub. The overall design is based on material continuity, contrast, and calm geometry. Veined stone provides movement, fluted surfaces provide texture, black metal provides definition, and natural wood introduces warmth. The result is a contemporary luxury bathroom that feels architectural, serene, and highly considered, more like a private wellness retreat than a conventional ensuite.

This visually simple, modern solution is unique within its suburban context, and gives this family the custom landscape of their dreams. The homeowners’ wish list included a modern design and clearly defined spaces: a larger dining patio, firepit patio, hot tub, and a 4-season sport court (which gets flooded for ice hockey in the winter). Circulation and screening were key in Ground One’s landscape design. A sport court could overwhelm the entire backyard, so it was raised three feet above the primary backyard to physically separate different spaces, and minimize its visual impact. Rectangular bluestone in a running bond pattern was used in all the gathering spaces (dining, firepit, hot tub). Bluestone walls reinforce a simple material palette. A larger dining patio was installed near the house for greater entertaining flexibility. Plank paver paths connect to a private hot tub area and allow kids to don hockey gear and enter the sport court without messing up the house. The firepit patio is at the back of the property, nestled into the existing hillside under a large oak and below the sport court terrace. Plantings reinforce the geometry of each gathering space, provide focal points, and create layers of screening and separation from any given vantage point. Hardy species were selected for their low-maintenance requirements and various seasons of interest. Landscape lighting was incorporated to provide way finding between the patios, accent various hardscape elements, and highlight the trees.

I built this on my property for my aging father who has some health issues. Handicap accessibility was a factor in design. His dream has always been to try retire to a cabin in the woods. This is what he got. It is a 1 bedroom, 1 bath with a great room. It is 600 sqft of AC space. The footprint is 40' x 26' overall. The site was the former home of our pig pen. I only had to take 1 tree to make this work and I planted 3 in its place. The axis is set from root ball to root ball. The rear center is aligned with mean sunset and is visible across a wetland. The goal was to make the home feel like it was floating in the palms. The geometry had to simple and I didn't want it feeling heavy on the land so I cantilevered the structure beyond exposed foundation walls. My barn is nearby and it features old 1950's "S" corrugated metal panel walls. I used the same panel profile for my siding. I ran it vertical to math the barn, but also to balance the length of the structure and stretch the high point into the canopy, visually. The wood is all Southern Yellow Pine. This material came from clearing at the Babcock Ranch Development site. I ran it through the structure, end to end and horizontally, to create a seamless feel and to stretch the space. It worked. It feels MUCH bigger than it is. I milled the material to specific sizes in specific areas to create precise alignments. Floor starters align with base. Wall tops adjoin ceiling starters to create the illusion of a seamless board. All light fixtures, HVAC supports, cabinets, switches, outlets, are set specifically to wood joints. The front and rear porch wood has three different milling profiles so the hypotenuse on the ceilings, align with the walls, and yield an aligned deck board below. Yes, I over did it. It is spectacular in its detailing. That's the benefit of small spaces. Concrete counters and IKEA cabinets round out the conversation. For those who could not live in a tiny house, I offer the Tiny-ish House. Photos by Ryan Gamma Staging by iStage Homes Design assistance by Jimmy Thornton

Our clients, a couple with four children, wanted to update their 1952 home with a mid-century feel, focusing on the main floor. The renovation emphasized enhancing finishes, optimizing storage, and maximizing seating in the dining and living areas. The entryway was designed to be inviting and practical, while the living room featured a statement sectional and a stunning terrazzo fireplace. The kitchen and dining area were transformed to be both functional and elegant, with playful touches like “Drunk Monkeys” wallpaper in the powder room.

Huge trendy backyard stone patio photo in San Francisco with a fire pit and a pergola

This project was a part of the 2017 Decorators' Showhouse in Columbus, Ohio. Twelve designers each created a room within the Columbus Museum of Art, making this the first showhouse to take place within a museum. Each designer was allowed to use a piece of artwork from the museum's collection in their space. The intent of this design was to create a contemporary, gender-neutral nursery with touches of mid-century modern style. Mid-century modern design is sleek, simple, functional and bright. Here, the combination of vintage and contemporary furnishings and accessories all come together to create a space that is calm, yet inspires creative play. The artwork, California Landscape by Stanton Macdonald-Wright, sets this tone. His modern abstract, devoid of illustration uses blocks of color to create space and form. This idea of geometric abstracts is repeated throughout the design of the room. Interesting shapes that can be manipulated with eye or hand are very fitting for a nursery. This is a space where a child can dream and play, grow and learn, and also rest. It is a room that could evolve over time while continuing to inspire a child for many years. “I strive to divest my work of all anecdote and illustration and to purify it to the point where the emotions of the spectator will be wholly aesthetic, as when listening to good music…” - Stanton Macdonald-Wright, circa 1915 Photo Credit: Marshall Evan Photography Construction: Jameson Building Co.

We expanded a formerly dark, small, outdated kitchen and made it open, bright and airy. The glass doors and open plate rack of the kitchen cabinets add depth, color and geometry to the room. The door knobs and cabinet hardware are round simple forms, a detail that echoes the round table and art form shapes on the walls.