Photography by Jim Tetro This house, built in the 1960s, sits southfacing on a terrific wooded lot in Bethesda, Maryland. The owners desire a whole-house renovation which would improve the general building fabric and systems, and extend the sense of living out of doors in all seasons. The original sixties-modern character is preserved and the renovation extends the design forward into a contemporary, modern approach. Connections to and through the site are enhanced through the creation of new larger window and door openings. Screened porches and decks perch above the sloped and wooded site. The new kitchen and bathrooms allow for opportunities to feel out-of -doors while preparing, cooking, dining, and bathing. Smart passive strategies guide the environmental choices for this project, including envelope improvements, updated mechanical systems, and on-site stormwater management.

This Coal Harbour master ensuite renovation highlights disciplined material transitions and thoughtful layout refinement within a Downtown Vancouver high-rise setting. The walk-in frameless glass shower enclosure was constructed with precision alignment, integrating vertically stacked ceramic tile above large-format slab tile for visual contrast and durability. A recessed shower niche was seamlessly incorporated to maintain clean wall planes while improving daily functionality. The adjacent smart toilet suite introduces separation and privacy while preserving continuity in finishes and tone. Executing this level of detailing in a high-rise condo requires careful sequencing, protection protocols, and coordinated trades — a standard approach in Arani Construction’s Downtown Vancouver renovation projects.

Detail of one beam screen and the edge of the floating bench concrete planter looking toward the dining area.
This is an example of a large modern drought-tolerant and full sun backyard landscaping with a fire pit and decking.

The design of this home was driven by the owners’ desire for a three-bedroom waterfront home that showcased the spectacular views and park-like setting. As nature lovers, they wanted their home to be organic, minimize any environmental impact on the sensitive site and embrace nature. This unique home is sited on a high ridge with a 45° slope to the water on the right and a deep ravine on the left. The five-acre site is completely wooded and tree preservation was a major emphasis. Very few trees were removed and special care was taken to protect the trees and environment throughout the project. To further minimize disturbance, grades were not changed and the home was designed to take full advantage of the site’s natural topography. Oak from the home site was re-purposed for the mantle, powder room counter and select furniture. The visually powerful twin pavilions were born from the need for level ground and parking on an otherwise challenging site. Fill dirt excavated from the main home provided the foundation. All structures are anchored with a natural stone base and exterior materials include timber framing, fir ceilings, shingle siding, a partial metal roof and corten steel walls. Stone, wood, metal and glass transition the exterior to the interior and large wood windows flood the home with light and showcase the setting. Interior finishes include reclaimed heart pine floors, Douglas fir trim, dry-stacked stone, rustic cherry cabinets and soapstone counters. Exterior spaces include a timber-framed porch, stone patio with fire pit and commanding views of the Occoquan reservoir. A second porch overlooks the ravine and a breezeway connects the garage to the home. Numerous energy-saving features have been incorporated, including LED lighting, on-demand gas water heating and special insulation. Smart technology helps manage and control the entire house. Greg Hadley Photography

AV Architects + Builders Location: Great Falls, VA, USA Our modern farm style home design was exactly what our clients were looking for. They had the charm and the landscape they wanted, but needed a boost to help accommodate a family of four. Our design saw us tear down their existing garage and transform the space into an entertaining family friendly kitchen. This addition moved the entry of the home to the other side and switched the view of the kitchen on the side of the home with more natural light. As for the ceilings, we went ahead and changed the traditional 7’8” ceilings to a 9’4” ceiling. Our decision to approach this home with smart design resulted in removing the existing stick frame roof and replacing it with engineered trusses to have a higher and wider roof, which allowed for the open plan to be implemented without the use of supporting beams. And once the finished product was complete, our clients had a home that doubled in space and created many more opportunities for entertaining and relaxing in style. Stacy Zarin Photography

Photography by Jim Tetro This house, built in the 1960s, sits southfacing on a terrific wooded lot in Bethesda, Maryland. The owners desire a whole-house renovation which would improve the general building fabric and systems, and extend the sense of living out of doors in all seasons. The original sixties-modern character is preserved and the renovation extends the design forward into a contemporary, modern approach. Connections to and through the site are enhanced through the creation of new larger window and door openings. Screened porches and decks perch above the sloped and wooded site. The new kitchen and bathrooms allow for opportunities to feel out-of -doors while preparing, cooking, dining, and bathing. Smart passive strategies guide the environmental choices for this project, including envelope improvements, updated mechanical systems, and on-site stormwater management.

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These South Shore of Boston Homeowners approached the Team at Renovisions to power-up their powder room. Their half bath, located on the first floor, is used by several guests particularly over the holidays. When considering the heavy traffic and the daily use from two toddlers in the household, it was smart to go with a stylish, yet practical design. Wainscot made a nice change to this room, adding an architectural interest and an overall classic feel to this cape-style traditional home. Installing custom wainscoting may be a challenge for most DIY’s, however in this case the homeowners knew they needed a professional and felt they were in great hands with Renovisions. Details certainly made a difference in this project; adding crown molding, careful attention to baseboards and trims had a big hand in creating a finished look. The painted wood vanity in color, sage reflects the trend toward using furniture-like pieces for cabinets. The smart configuration of drawers and door, allows for plenty of storage, a true luxury for a powder room. The quartz countertop was a stunning choice with veining of sage, black and white creating a Wow response when you enter the room. The dark stained wood trims and wainscoting were painted a bright white finish and allowed the selected green/beige hue to pop. Decorative black framed family pictures produced a dramatic statement and were appealing to all guests. The attractive glass mirror is outfitted with sconce light fixtures on either side, ensuring minimal shadows. The homeowners are thrilled with their new look and proud to boast what was once a simple bathroom into a showcase of their personal style and taste. "We are very happy with our new bathroom. We received many compliments on it from guests that have come to visit recently. Thanks for all of your hard work on this project!" - Doug & Lisa M. (Hanover)

Karl Neumann photo
Mid-sized rustic brown two-story wood gable roof idea in Seattle

The custom rustic barn door leading to the guest bedroom. The Crimson Bluffs Home is a sustainable smaller home with 360 degree views of the Missouri River various mountain ranges. Energy-efficiency strategies include long-lasting building materials, passive cooling, ample natural day lighting, high insulation values, advanced framing, and a combined heating approach of passive solar heat gain and radiant hydronic floor heating, a strategy we call “Sun Smart Radiant Heating.” Greenovision Home Design

Make the Smart Choice! Smart people pay attention to what matters. When people visit your home they won’t be impressed as easily, but they will notice shoddy furniture immediately. It’s human nature to find flaws and problems quicker than solutions. Whenever you enter a home, you look at the furniture. Sadly people often overlook a key piece which is dining chairs. And this thing can be a big problem once you actually sit on the chair. Most chairs look good but when you sit on them, they are actually quite uncomfortable. Imagine having guests over. They love your home and compliment you on your fine taste. When it comes to dinner, they approach the dining table and take their seats. And bam, they start fidgeting in their chairs. Uncomfortable dining chairs can ruin the best dinners and make your home look dull. With these fine dining chairs, you can avoid both a dull look and uncomfortable seats. Designed with a combo of stainless steel and bi-cast leather, these dining chairs provide an interesting design with the incorporation of arm rests. The chairs have a modern look over all and will definitely look great with any modern artsy looking dining table.

Large transitional master dark wood floor and brown floor bedroom photo in Toronto with gray walls and no fireplace

A comfortable bedroom doesn't have to come with a luxury price tag. This inviting space showcases the Buena Vista® Medium Mattress from Denver Mattress, designed for shoppers who want dependable comfort, lasting quality, and smart value. The Buena Vista® Medium offers a balanced feel that combines everyday support with comfortable cushioning, making it a versatile choice for a variety of sleep styles. Built to deliver reliable comfort night after night, it helps create a bedroom that feels welcoming, functional, and designed for real life. Warm wood furniture, soft neutral walls, colorful textiles, and playful accents create a space that feels polished yet approachable. The result is a bedroom that reflects thoughtful design and practical decision-making, proving that quality sleep and beautiful style can go hand in hand without overspending.

Make the Smart Choice! Smart people pay attention to what matters. When people visit your home they won’t be impressed as easily, but they will notice shoddy furniture immediately. It’s human nature to find flaws and problems quicker than solutions. Whenever you enter a home, you look at the furniture. Sadly people often overlook a key piece which is dining chairs. And this thing can be a big problem once you actually sit on the chair. Most chairs look good but when you sit on them, they are actually quite uncomfortable. Imagine having guests over. They love your home and compliment you on your fine taste. When it comes to dinner, they approach the dining table and take their seats. And bam, they start fidgeting in their chairs. Uncomfortable dining chairs can ruin the best dinners and make your home look dull. With these fine dining chairs, you can avoid both a dull look and uncomfortable seats. Designed with a combo of stainless steel and bi-cast leather, these dining chairs provide an interesting design with the incorporation of arm rests. The chairs have a modern look over all and will definitely look great with any modern artsy looking dining table.

Make the Smart Choice! Smart people pay attention to what matters. When people visit your home they won’t be impressed as easily, but they will notice shoddy furniture immediately. It’s human nature to find flaws and problems quicker than solutions. Whenever you enter a home, you look at the furniture. Sadly people often overlook a key piece which is dining chairs. And this thing can be a big problem once you actually sit on the chair. Most chairs look good but when you sit on them, they are actually quite uncomfortable. Imagine having guests over. They love your home and compliment you on your fine taste. When it comes to dinner, they approach the dining table and take their seats. And bam, they start fidgeting in their chairs. Uncomfortable dining chairs can ruin the best dinners and make your home look dull. With these fine dining chairs, you can avoid both a dull look and uncomfortable seats. Designed with a combo of stainless steel and bi-cast leather, these dining chairs provide an interesting design with the incorporation of arm rests. The chairs have a modern look over all and will definitely look great with any modern artsy looking dining table.

The railing of the open stairs leading to the lower level of the home. The Crimson Bluffs Home is a sustainable smaller home with 360 degree views of the Missouri River various mountain ranges. Energy-efficiency strategies include long-lasting building materials, passive cooling, ample natural day lighting, high insulation values, advanced framing, and a combined heating approach of passive solar heat gain and radiant hydronic floor heating, a strategy we call “Sun Smart Radiant Heating.” Greenovision Home Design

Make the Smart Choice! Smart people pay attention to what matters. When people visit your home they won’t be impressed as easily, but they will notice shoddy furniture immediately. It’s human nature to find flaws and problems quicker than solutions. Whenever you enter a home, you look at the furniture. Sadly people often overlook a key piece which is dining chairs. And this thing can be a big problem once you actually sit on the chair. Most chairs look good but when you sit on them, they are actually quite uncomfortable. Imagine having guests over. They love your home and compliment you on your fine taste. When it comes to dinner, they approach the dining table and take their seats. And bam, they start fidgeting in their chairs. Uncomfortable dining chairs can ruin the best dinners and make your home look dull. With these fine dining chairs, you can avoid both a dull look and uncomfortable seats. Designed with a combo of stainless steel and bi-cast leather, these dining chairs provide an interesting design with the incorporation of arm rests. The chairs have a modern look over all and will definitely look great with any modern artsy looking dining table.

This Calabasas front yard transformation redefines Calabasas curb appeal through elevated landscape architecture and enduring material selection. The Calabasas artisan flagstone pathway carves a refined approach across a sculpted Calabasas premium artificial turf lawn, delivering symmetry, flow, and visual sophistication. Strategically layered Calabasas river rock beds and preserved mature Calabasas tree canopy create dimension while maintaining a drought-smart Calabasas landscape solution. Designed for luxury Calabasas properties, this Calabasas exterior remodel balances timeless Mediterranean character with modern low-maintenance performance. Designed specifically for a Calabasas estate setting, the layered Calabasas river rock beds, mature trees, and integrated Calabasas landscape lighting deliver year-round greenery without heavy water demand. This Calabasas exterior transformation elevates curb appeal while maintaining a refined, drought-conscious footprint ideal for luxury Calabasas properties.

Design by and image courtesy of Ashley Montgomery