This lakefront second home in the Irish Hills offered expansive lake views, yet the yard provided little usable space beyond the existing deck. The slope toward the water restricted gathering areas and made site access during construction especially complex. The goal was to extend the living environment beyond the deck. To create a series of spaces that felt connected to the water, social with corn hole tournaments and a cozy place to unwind in the evening after docking the boat, cast in warm, soft lighting.

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A transformation inspired by the owner’s love of modern architecture, art and color (and the adjacent sand, rock, water, and the northwest landscape), the Indianola House sought to bring the soul of a home to a colorless muted box. The original house was a drab 1990’s-era box with no personality or presence sited on a beautiful secluded bay, facing water and island views, northwest of the City of Seattle. The existing mono-colored stucco-clad exterior and pyramidal glass-block openings had led the neighborhood to dub the structure, unflatteringly, “The Miami Vice House”. Rhodes Architecture’s Residential Architects careful use of natural light, rich, collaged finishes and ability to open the house to gardens, beach, and outdoor gathering was critical to the design. The house soon became “The Gallery”. The original home’s grey stucco exterior made the house seem both large and featureless; the introduction of no-maintenance exterior materials that collage and complement each other was a goal of the homeowner and the Seattle Architects who teamed up for this residential design. The bloated scale of the house cried out for the establishment and definition of the parts of the structure, a breaking down of the home’s form and its apparent bland size. Living, sleeping, and bathing areas that started as staid spaces were in need of opening to the natural environment with additions of large doors, folding glass walls and useable balconies were crucial to each space having a dialogue with the outdoors. The owner’s extensive art collection was highlighted and became the focus of interior places, well-lit naturally and through a new lighting system. Energy use and sustainable systems were a key component of the design which used high-efficacy lighting, better cladding on a rain-screen system, high-efficiency doors and windows, new insulation and weather barriers, and which added a photovoltaic-generated electrical system. The contemporary design sought to integrate all of these systems, materials, and finishes into a seamless whole that lent interest and drama to a residence which was previously lusterless. How radically this house was transformed is evident in the exteriors, gardens and the natural spaces the house now opens to, as well as the gallery-like interiors. This home is a stunning testament to what is possible “before-and-after” when remade by Rhodes Architecture + Light. The clients are an older couple with long professional and political careers, a love of art and a clear desire to connect with the Northwest environment and enliven their daily lives with spaces full of color and natural light. Rhodes Architecture + Light was hired in 2019 to add new exteriors and interiors, natural light, larger openings to beach and bay, seismic and foundation upgrades to the home, and to infuse life into the house through the re-use of existing space and varied materials, color, textures, and lighting. The only actual change to the exterior “shell” of the house was the introduction of a low “gull-wing” roof with wood soffits above the central atrium space, to add drama and bring natural light into the entry gallery space. Interior spaces, including bedrooms and bathrooms, were re-planned and opened to each other, to greater natural light, to roof decks, and to the incredible views and sea-side environment. The Builder, Fairbank Construction Company of Bainbridge Island, Washington, met the challenge of the design, first completely deconstructing the finishes inside and out, then precisely interlocking new claddings, windows and doors, cabinetry, finishes and a new gull-wing central roof in a beautiful transformation. The construction was total, thorough, and very detailed, resulting a house that, far from seeming a “remodeling”, is far more present and fitting to the owner’s lives and the natural environment than the house we started with.

This site had a slight grade to it, from the house to the back fence. To make the grade changes we designed the space to have functional raised planting areas.

This lakefront second home in the Irish Hills offered expansive lake views, yet the yard provided little usable space beyond the existing deck. The slope toward the water restricted gathering areas and made site access during construction especially complex. The goal was to extend the living environment beyond the deck. To create a series of spaces that felt connected to the water, social with corn hole tournaments and a cozy place to unwind in the evening after docking the boat, cast in warm, soft lighting.

The swimming pool was crowned with the “Enchanting Buddha” a 4.5 feet tall statue and the garden’s main character and the reason for the garden transformation. Two Eugenia Trees, Pom-Pom Topiary shaped were planted in two Chinese red bowl vases framing the Buddha. Two small red clay bowls placed in the ground, on the left side of the Buddha, one with Sedum rupestris lemon coral in a beautiful yellow and a second bowl with yellow Sansevieria

A minimal insertion into a densely wooded landscape, the Collector’s Pavilion provides the owners with an 8,000 sf private fitness space and vintage automobile gallery. On a gently sloping site in amongst a grove of trees, the pavilion slides into the topography - mimicking and contrasting the surrounding landscape with a folded roof plane that hovers over a board formed concrete base. The clients’ requirement for a nearby room to display a growing car collection as well as provide a remote area for personal fitness carries with it a series of challenges related to privacy and security. The pavilion nestles into the wooded site - finding a home in a small clearing - and merges with the sloping landscape. The building has dual personalities, serving as a private and secure bunker from the exterior, while transforming into a warm and inviting space on the interior. The use of indirect light and the need to obscure direct views from the public right away provides the client with adequate day light for day-to-day use while ensuring that strict privacy is maintained. This shifting personality is also dramatically affected by the seasons - contrasting and merging with the surrounding environment depending on the time of year. The Collector’s Pavilion employs meticulous detailing of its concrete to steel to wood connections, exploring the grounded nature of poured concrete in conjunction with a delicate wood roof system that floats above a grid of steel. Above all, the Pavilion harmonizes with it’s natural surroundings through it’s materiality, formal language, and siting. Overview Chenequa, WI Size 8,000 sf Completion Date May 2013 Services Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

Visit our site for full project overview & details.

The swimming pool was crowned with the “Enchanting Buddha” a 4.5 feet tall statue and the garden’s main character and the reason for the garden transformation. Two Eugenia Trees, Pom-Pom Topiary shaped were planted in two Chinese red bowl vases framing the Buddha. Two small red clay bowls placed in the ground, on the left side of the Buddha, one with Sedum rupestris lemon coral in a beautiful yellow and a second bowl with yellow Sansevieria

Built in 1896, the original site of the Baldwin Piano warehouse was transformed into several turn-of-the-century residential spaces in the heart of Downtown Denver. The building is the last remaining structure in Downtown Denver with a cast-iron facade. HouseHome was invited to take on a poorly designed loft and transform it into a luxury Airbnb rental. Since this building has such a dense history, it was our mission to bring the focus back onto the unique features, such as the original brick, large windows, and unique architecture. Our client wanted the space to be transformed into a luxury, unique Airbnb for world travelers and tourists hoping to experience the history and art of the Denver scene. We went with a modern, clean-lined design with warm brick, moody black tones, and pops of green and white, all tied together with metal accents. The high-contrast black ceiling is the wow factor in this design, pushing the envelope to create a completely unique space. Other added elements in this loft are the modern, high-gloss kitchen cabinetry, the concrete tile backsplash, and the unique multi-use space in the Living Room. Truly a dream rental that perfectly encapsulates the trendy, historical personality of the Denver area.

Built in 1896, the original site of the Baldwin Piano warehouse was transformed into several turn-of-the-century residential spaces in the heart of Downtown Denver. The building is the last remaining structure in Downtown Denver with a cast-iron facade. HouseHome was invited to take on a poorly designed loft and transform it into a luxury Airbnb rental. Since this building has such a dense history, it was our mission to bring the focus back onto the unique features, such as the original brick, large windows, and unique architecture. Our client wanted the space to be transformed into a luxury, unique Airbnb for world travelers and tourists hoping to experience the history and art of the Denver scene. We went with a modern, clean-lined design with warm brick, moody black tones, and pops of green and white, all tied together with metal accents. The high-contrast black ceiling is the wow factor in this design, pushing the envelope to create a completely unique space. Other added elements in this loft are the modern, high-gloss kitchen cabinetry, the concrete tile backsplash, and the unique multi-use space in the Living Room. Truly a dream rental that perfectly encapsulates the trendy, historical personality of the Denver area.

Built in 1896, the original site of the Baldwin Piano warehouse was transformed into several turn-of-the-century residential spaces in the heart of Downtown Denver. The building is the last remaining structure in Downtown Denver with a cast-iron facade. HouseHome was invited to take on a poorly designed loft and transform it into a luxury Airbnb rental. Since this building has such a dense history, it was our mission to bring the focus back onto the unique features, such as the original brick, large windows, and unique architecture. Our client wanted the space to be transformed into a luxury, unique Airbnb for world travelers and tourists hoping to experience the history and art of the Denver scene. We went with a modern, clean-lined design with warm brick, moody black tones, and pops of green and white, all tied together with metal accents. The high-contrast black ceiling is the wow factor in this design, pushing the envelope to create a completely unique space. Other added elements in this loft are the modern, high-gloss kitchen cabinetry, the concrete tile backsplash, and the unique multi-use space in the Living Room. Truly a dream rental that perfectly encapsulates the trendy, historical personality of the Denver area.

Built in 1896, the original site of the Baldwin Piano warehouse was transformed into several turn-of-the-century residential spaces in the heart of Downtown Denver. The building is the last remaining structure in Downtown Denver with a cast-iron facade. HouseHome was invited to take on a poorly designed loft and transform it into a luxury Airbnb rental. Since this building has such a dense history, it was our mission to bring the focus back onto the unique features, such as the original brick, large windows, and unique architecture. Our client wanted the space to be transformed into a luxury, unique Airbnb for world travelers and tourists hoping to experience the history and art of the Denver scene. We went with a modern, clean-lined design with warm brick, moody black tones, and pops of green and white, all tied together with metal accents. The high-contrast black ceiling is the wow factor in this design, pushing the envelope to create a completely unique space. Other added elements in this loft are the modern, high-gloss kitchen cabinetry, the concrete tile backsplash, and the unique multi-use space in the Living Room. Truly a dream rental that perfectly encapsulates the trendy, historical personality of the Denver area.

This lower-level renovation was designed to feel like an extension of the main living space rather than a basement. Chamberland Professional Painting completed a full interior repaint, including walls, ceilings, trim, and custom cabinetry, to achieve a cohesive and refined look. The ceiling was finished in a contrasting taupe tone to create depth and architectural interest, while the built-ins were spray-finished in a rich charcoal for a modern yet timeless accent. Smooth, durable coatings and precision detail work ensure a flawless finish that will stand up to everyday living. Our crew maintained complete site protection and daily cleanup throughout, delivering a project that’s as meticulous in execution as it is beautiful in result.

Saturday July 18, 3:30 to 6:00pm | Lakeville Native Wildflower Meadow and Woodland Garden Larry Weaner of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates In the area surrounding Lake Wononskopomuc in northwest Connecticut, two landscapes, each distinct yet inspired by the region’s natural environment, offer insight into the design of native landscapes and the role of the landscape architect in determining the trajectory of site evolution. Once a field of barren turf located along the lake’s northern shoreline, the first site has been transformed into a mature, native meadow, with spectacular diversity and full floral display. The second site, a more recent woodland planting on the lake’s eastern shoreline, supports a landscape in an earlier stage of evolution. While evidence of establishment techniques remain visible, this season marks a distinct moment in the landscape’s advance toward full maturity. Despite their modest size, these landscapes provide a momentous occasion to better understand designed, native landscapes and their growth and evolution. Born in the mind of the designer and bearing his thumbprint, these native landscapes spring from the dance between humans and the patterns and processes of nature. Photos courtesy of Larry Weaner Landscape Associates

A minimal insertion into a densely wooded landscape, the Collector’s Pavilion provides the owners with an 8,000 sf private fitness space and vintage automobile gallery. On a gently sloping site in amongst a grove of trees, the pavilion slides into the topography - mimicking and contrasting the surrounding landscape with a folded roof plane that hovers over a board formed concrete base. The clients’ requirement for a nearby room to display a growing car collection as well as provide a remote area for personal fitness carries with it a series of challenges related to privacy and security. The pavilion nestles into the wooded site - finding a home in a small clearing - and merges with the sloping landscape. The building has dual personalities, serving as a private and secure bunker from the exterior, while transforming into a warm and inviting space on the interior. The use of indirect light and the need to obscure direct views from the public right away provides the client with adequate day light for day-to-day use while ensuring that strict privacy is maintained. This shifting personality is also dramatically affected by the seasons - contrasting and merging with the surrounding environment depending on the time of year. The Collector’s Pavilion employs meticulous detailing of its concrete to steel to wood connections, exploring the grounded nature of poured concrete in conjunction with a delicate wood roof system that floats above a grid of steel. Above all, the Pavilion harmonizes with it’s natural surroundings through it’s materiality, formal language, and siting. Overview Chenequa, WI Size 8,000 sf Completion Date May 2013 Services Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

A minimal insertion into a densely wooded landscape, the Collector’s Pavilion provides the owners with an 8,000 sf private fitness space and vintage automobile gallery. On a gently sloping site in amongst a grove of trees, the pavilion slides into the topography - mimicking and contrasting the surrounding landscape with a folded roof plane that hovers over a board formed concrete base. The clients’ requirement for a nearby room to display a growing car collection as well as provide a remote area for personal fitness carries with it a series of challenges related to privacy and security. The pavilion nestles into the wooded site - finding a home in a small clearing - and merges with the sloping landscape. The building has dual personalities, serving as a private and secure bunker from the exterior, while transforming into a warm and inviting space on the interior. The use of indirect light and the need to obscure direct views from the public right away provides the client with adequate day light for day-to-day use while ensuring that strict privacy is maintained. This shifting personality is also dramatically affected by the seasons - contrasting and merging with the surrounding environment depending on the time of year. The Collector’s Pavilion employs meticulous detailing of its concrete to steel to wood connections, exploring the grounded nature of poured concrete in conjunction with a delicate wood roof system that floats above a grid of steel. Above all, the Pavilion harmonizes with it’s natural surroundings through it’s materiality, formal language, and siting. Overview Chenequa, WI Size 8,000 sf Completion Date May 2013 Services Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

This perspective captures the grand scale of the project’s curb appeal. The large-scale moss boulders anchored in the planting beds provide a rugged, natural counterpoint to the home’s refined architecture. Our design+build team carefully selected and placed each stone to feel like a permanent part of the site. Coupled with a comprehensive master plan that includes ornamental trees and structured beds, this home now stands as a premier example of modern outdoor living and professional residential design.

Built in 1896, the original site of the Baldwin Piano warehouse was transformed into several turn-of-the-century residential spaces in the heart of Downtown Denver. The building is the last remaining structure in Downtown Denver with a cast-iron facade. HouseHome was invited to take on a poorly designed loft and transform it into a luxury Airbnb rental. Since this building has such a dense history, it was our mission to bring the focus back onto the unique features, such as the original brick, large windows, and unique architecture. Our client wanted the space to be transformed into a luxury, unique Airbnb for world travelers and tourists hoping to experience the history and art of the Denver scene. We went with a modern, clean-lined design with warm brick, moody black tones, and pops of green and white, all tied together with metal accents. The high-contrast black ceiling is the wow factor in this design, pushing the envelope to create a completely unique space. Other added elements in this loft are the modern, high-gloss kitchen cabinetry, the concrete tile backsplash, and the unique multi-use space in the Living Room. Truly a dream rental that perfectly encapsulates the trendy, historical personality of the Denver area.