This luxury residential project explores a refined balance between contemporary minimalism and warm, livable sophistication. Designed with a focus on atmosphere, texture, and architectural harmony, the interiors combine premium natural materials, soft ambient lighting, and carefully curated details to create a timeless living experience. The concept emphasizes clean architectural lines enriched by warm tones, textured stone, elegant wood finishes, bespoke furniture elements, and layered lighting compositions. Each space was designed to feel both visually striking and deeply comfortable, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming residential character. Special attention was given to material continuity and spatial flow, creating a cohesive design language throughout the project. From the serene private areas to the sophisticated social spaces, the interiors reflect understated luxury, functionality, and a strong sense of balance. Project Scope: • Interior Design • Interior Visualization • Material & Lighting Concept • Space Planning • CGI & Architectural Rendering

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

This luxury residential project explores a refined balance between contemporary minimalism and warm, livable sophistication. Designed with a focus on atmosphere, texture, and architectural harmony, the interiors combine premium natural materials, soft ambient lighting, and carefully curated details to create a timeless living experience. The concept emphasizes clean architectural lines enriched by warm tones, textured stone, elegant wood finishes, bespoke furniture elements, and layered lighting compositions. Each space was designed to feel both visually striking and deeply comfortable, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming residential character. Special attention was given to material continuity and spatial flow, creating a cohesive design language throughout the project. From the serene private areas to the sophisticated social spaces, the interiors reflect understated luxury, functionality, and a strong sense of balance. Project Scope: • Interior Design • Interior Visualization • Material & Lighting Concept • Space Planning • CGI & Architectural Rendering

Covid During Construction and Making Face Masks Dear Houzz Folks, We've started getting back to work and are educating everyone at our projects on how to be safe during COVID, posting signage, and we've been making masks for our employees, colleagues, friends, family etc... Here's some information on what I've learned so far in sewing the best fitting face mask for COVID. 1. Put in a wire at the nose bridge (about 3.5 inches) - it helps with fit and if you wear glasses, it keeps them from fogging up. I found that doorbell wire, available at the hardware store, seems to work well. It isn't too thin or too fat, bends easily and holds its shape. I attach it by using a zigzag stitch on the interior seam of the outside of the mask (so there's a bit more cushion on the inside). 2. For the shaped masks, I make a pocket in case my friends, family, colleagues, want to insert a filter - it also allows for three layers of fabric in the breathing area and less bulk where the ties go. For patterns that don't offer pockets, I just make my own pattern pocket. I also first baste the two inside pieces first and then sew the front on. This way, there's no worries about slipping. No pins are needed and no pins minimizes the number of extra air holes in the fabric. 3. So that the ties/loops can be replaced or modified, I make a channel for rather than sewing it in permanently. Many videos show using a safety pin to pull the elastic through. If you sew much, you might have a bodkin in your sewing box, but it might be a bit too wide. Instead, I use a long hairpin (you could probably make a long loop with a paper clip). I run the hairpin through the channel, loop the elastic through the end of the pin and pull through. That takes much less time than piercing it with a safety-pin. 4. For the inside of the masks, it is nice to have softer fabric inside, so high-thread-count sheets purchased on sale work great. Then you can easily tell what is inside as well. 5. For surgical-style masks, there's a pattern with a pocket on the inside and a wire. I like the ideas in this video but use 2 fabrics and make them bigger. About a 9x9 inch for the outside and 9x8 inch for the inside. 5/8 seam on the nose and 1/4 seam on the bottom. 6. For the fitted masks, there are two patterns that I like. For this one, https://moinliz.de/mundschutz-naehen-mit-schnittmuster it expects you to print on European-sized paper, so if you want to get the size right, print at 100% I also really like this pattern and I added a pocket and lengthened the ends to make channels https://intermountainhealthcare.org/covid19-coronavirus/homemade-cloth-face-coverings/ (scroll down to a link to download the pdf) Lots of folks sew craftpassion, but I like the fit of these patterns better. There are still some other patterns I have left to try! 6. After breaking lots of needles, I realized that I really didn't need to topstich the fitted masks over the bridge, so I just started skipping the bridge. 7. If you're going to wear a face-covering for a really long time, you might want to skip the ear hangers and go for ties behind the head. Instead of two ties, I'll use one long one so that the bottom one is a loop and the top one ties. Bungee cord works nice. Happy Sewing! : ) Rhoda Fry, Bill Fry Construction

This luxury residential project explores a refined balance between contemporary minimalism and warm, livable sophistication. Designed with a focus on atmosphere, texture, and architectural harmony, the interiors combine premium natural materials, soft ambient lighting, and carefully curated details to create a timeless living experience. The concept emphasizes clean architectural lines enriched by warm tones, textured stone, elegant wood finishes, bespoke furniture elements, and layered lighting compositions. Each space was designed to feel both visually striking and deeply comfortable, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming residential character. Special attention was given to material continuity and spatial flow, creating a cohesive design language throughout the project. From the serene private areas to the sophisticated social spaces, the interiors reflect understated luxury, functionality, and a strong sense of balance. Project Scope: • Interior Design • Interior Visualization • Material & Lighting Concept • Space Planning • CGI & Architectural Rendering

The interiors of this loft bridge the gap between downtown Chicago and the rapidly-developing Fulton Market neighborhood. A study in contrasts, each space was designed to feel modern yet comfortable, sleek yet cozy, and raw yet refined. Throughout the property, materials, finishes, art and furniture create unity, hierarchy, and distinction between the various public and private spaces. Present on every level, raw concrete columns expose the building’s frame and connect every space of the structure. Likewise, the exposed poured-in-place concrete core remains visible on every floor. Raw, heavy metals and dark finishes further expand the material expression; while wood is used on the ceiling to signal social spaces. Street art from the site was repurposed throughout the property as wayfinding. The art brings the history of the neighborhood inside the building and creates a distinct identity for each level. Furnishings reflect the contemporary design of the building and the industrial history of the neighborhood. The pieces are raw and layered, merging black pipe, upholstery, leather, and steel into a single contemporary design. Outfitted with simple, sculptural forms, softened with woven textures and rounded corners, the design takes advantage of the sweeping downtown views afforded by the building’s rounded facade.

In the main bedroom, the design narrative shifts from social vibrancy to intimate tranquility, creating a truly serene sanctuary high above the city. Set against a backdrop of sophisticated textured grasscloth walls, the room is defined by its masterful layering of tactile surfaces and a continued, thoughtful exploration of color.

Elegant exterior home photo in Milwaukee

Texture and layering define this modern outdoor living entrance. Alterra’s design+build team utilized weathered steel edging to contain a bed of smooth river stone, providing a clean, industrial contrast to the lush turf. By incorporating structural evergreens and a low-profile Japanese Maple, we’ve created a multi-dimensional garden that thrives under the shade of mature oaks. This project demonstrates how a thoughtful master plan can balance hard, architectural lines with soft, organic movement to enhance a home’s natural character.

Living room with custom wood shelving dividing entry and social areas, enriched with warm materials, fireplace, layered textiles, and a mix of classic and modern elements.

Schroeder Design/Build created seven different layout options and our clients selected an “L” shaped design that required removing a bearing wall. This allowed us to open up the kitchen area and create a laundry area that was formerly an under stair closet. The new kitchen features loads of counter space for working and cabinets and drawers for storage. Appliances were placed to maximize flow and prevent traffic jams. A well-planned layered light plan offers overhead, task and accent lighting throughout. The peninsula seating area allows the kids to sit and do homework or socialize while mom’s preparing meals. This kitchen remodel includes many special touches that make it perfectly suited for this family. The knee wall under the peninsula is tiled to prevent damage to the cabinets from accidental kicking while the kids sit on stools. There’s a niche behind the sink to add extra counter depth for plants.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

This kitchen by Kudos Interior Designs showcases a sleek and modern aesthetic. It features a large island with a light wood finish, which contrasts beautifully with the dark lower cabinetry. The island is equipped with a built-in cooktop and a seating area with plush black bar stools, perfect for casual dining or socializing. The cabinetry along the wall combines a mix of dark and white finishes, enhancing the room's contemporary feel. A double sink with a minimalist design is situated on the right side, paired with a luxurious marble backsplash that extends across the counter. The kitchen's polished marble flooring adds an extra layer of sophistication, making this space both stylish and functional.

This kitchen is the epitome of modern luxury, meticulously designed with high-end materials and thoughtful details that elevate both aesthetics and functionality. At the heart of the design is the Sub-Zero refrigerator, seamlessly integrated into the custom cabinetry, providing not only cutting-edge refrigeration but also a sleek, cohesive look that maintains the kitchen's refined aesthetic. The countertops and waterfall island are crafted from exquisite quartz with gentle veining, offering a durable yet elegant surface that reflects sophistication. The island’s seamless design invites social gatherings, effortlessly blending style and functionality. Beneath the counters, a wine refrigerator offers convenient storage for fine beverages, ideal for entertaining and adding a touch of indulgence to the space. The cabinetry, painted in a matte white finish, is enhanced with brushed brass hardware, bringing warmth and a hint of opulence to the room. Each cabinet and drawer is crafted with precision, providing ample storage while maintaining a streamlined look. Open shelving in a rich, dark wood adds depth and texture, breaking up the white tones and providing a showcase for decorative items or frequently used essentials. The backsplash, crafted from textured marble tiles, adds a subtle layer of luxury, with light playing off each tile to create depth and visual interest. The under-cabinet lighting further highlights this intricate design, enhancing the room’s brightness and creating a soft, inviting glow. This kitchen’s luxurious design extends to every detail, from the professional-grade appliances to the custom finishes, achieving a harmonious blend of style and practicality. Dark hardwood floors ground the room, adding warmth and complementing the lighter tones, creating a balanced, sophisticated atmosphere. This space embodies the pinnacle of modern kitchen design, where every element is chosen for both beauty and purpose, resulting in a truly inspiring culinary environment.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements. The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy. The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Trim+Edge is a custom mid-century modern residential landscape remodel in East Austin, Texas (78702). Designed by Hush House, the project transforms a sloped residential lot into three functional outdoor zones using a slatted steel retaining wall, a pea gravel courtyard, and a shaded patio lounge. 2. Design Challenge & Architectural Solution The Challenge: Leveling a sloped backyard lot to create usable, multi-functional outdoor living spaces for family gathering and entertaining. The Solution: Installing a low-profile, slatted steel retaining structure to level the upper lawn while creating a seamless step-down transition into a pea gravel courtyard and shaded patio lounge directly adjacent to the main home. 3. Key Architectural Features & Materials Slatted Steel Retaining Wall: A custom steel retaining structure that encases, levels, and elevates the upper lawn area. Pea Gravel Courtyard: A low-maintenance gravel patio designed for flexible seating, dining, and casual outdoor entertaining. Shaded Patio Lounge: An oversized covered seating area situated right next to the house for all-day shade and comfort. Three-Zone Functional Layout: A layered landscape plan designed to activate distinct areas for concurrent family activities and large social gatherings.

This Frederick-area kitchen remodel by Talon Construction Inc. is a standout example of how thoughtful design and craftsmanship can completely transform the heart of a home. Blending modern functionality with timeless finishes, the space is both visually striking and highly livable tailored to how homeowners cook, gather, and entertain. At the center of the design is a large, statement island topped with marble-inspired quartz. Its expansive surface serves as a multifunctional hub for meal prep, casual dining, and socializing. The waterfall-like veining carries seamlessly into the full-height backsplash, creating a cohesive and elevated aesthetic that feels custom and refined. The cabinetry palette strikes a perfect balance between contrast and warmth. Crisp white shaker-style upper cabinets keep the perimeter light and open, while soft gray base cabinetry and a matching island ground the space with subtle depth. Matte black hardware adds a clean, contemporary edge, complementing the overall modern farmhouse feel. Functionality is just as impressive as the visual appeal. The layout maximizes storage and efficiency with a mix of deep drawers, roll-out organizers, and integrated appliance solutions. A custom pantry provides dedicated storage with built-in shelving and drawer systems, making organization effortless and accessible. The island itself incorporates clever storage features, including pull-outs and utensil organization, ensuring everything has its place. High-end appliances are thoughtfully integrated to maintain clean sightlines, including stainless steel wall ovens and a counter-depth refrigerator. This approach enhances both usability and the open, uncluttered feel of the kitchen. Lighting plays a key role in defining the space. Layered illumination from recessed ceiling lights to decorative glass pendant fixtures over the island. This adds both function and ambiance. Under-cabinet lighting highlights the backsplash while improving task visibility, and natural light from nearby windows further enhances the bright, airy atmosphere. Warm-toned luxury vinyl plank flooring ties everything together, introducing texture and durability while softening the overall palette. The result is a kitchen that feels inviting, comfortable, and built for everyday life. Ultimately, this remodel reflects a design-build approach that prioritizes both beauty and practicality. Every detail, from the cabinetry and countertops to the lighting and storage has been carefully considered to create a space that not only looks exceptional but functions seamlessly for years to come.

This luxury residential project explores a refined balance between contemporary minimalism and warm, livable sophistication. Designed with a focus on atmosphere, texture, and architectural harmony, the interiors combine premium natural materials, soft ambient lighting, and carefully curated details to create a timeless living experience. The concept emphasizes clean architectural lines enriched by warm tones, textured stone, elegant wood finishes, bespoke furniture elements, and layered lighting compositions. Each space was designed to feel both visually striking and deeply comfortable, blending modern aesthetics with a welcoming residential character. Special attention was given to material continuity and spatial flow, creating a cohesive design language throughout the project. From the serene private areas to the sophisticated social spaces, the interiors reflect understated luxury, functionality, and a strong sense of balance. Project Scope: • Interior Design • Interior Visualization • Material & Lighting Concept • Space Planning • CGI & Architectural Rendering

Schroeder Design/Build created seven different layout options and our clients selected an “L” shaped design that required removing a bearing wall. This allowed us to open up the kitchen area and create a laundry area that was formerly an under stair closet. The new kitchen features loads of counter space for working and cabinets and drawers for storage. Appliances were placed to maximize flow and prevent traffic jams. A well-planned layered light plan offers overhead, task and accent lighting throughout. The peninsula seating area allows the kids to sit and do homework or socialize while mom’s preparing meals. This kitchen remodel includes many special touches that make it perfectly suited for this family. The knee wall under the peninsula is tiled to prevent damage to the cabinets from accidental kicking while the kids sit on stools. There’s a niche behind the sink to add extra counter depth for plants.