Search results for "Solutions continue" in Home Design Ideas

This image reveals a spacious and welcoming kitchen, where the natural beauty of the outdoors complements the warm interior design. The kitchen boasts generous counter space with granite countertops that have a speckled pattern, offering both durability and a timeless look. The central island provides ample room for meal preparation and casual dining, while also featuring additional storage below. The rich wooden cabinetry with clean, straight lines lends a classic touch and is equipped with modern hardware. Stainless steel appliances, including a side-by-side refrigerator and a professional-grade gas stove with a range hood, reflect a commitment to quality and function. Soft, under-cabinet lighting illuminates the subway tile backsplash, enhancing the working area. Large sliding glass doors allow for an abundance of natural light and offer a view of the serene, forested surroundings, creating an open and airy feel. The hardwood floors with their light finish further the sense of warmth and continuity throughout the space. This kitchen is thoughtfully designed to be the heart of the home, where functionality meets a welcoming atmosphere perfect for cooking, entertaining, and enjoying the view.

A married pair of artists sought to expand and adapt this salt box-style house into a functional, attractive live/work space while retaining certain nostalgic elements (this was the wife’s childhood home.) Their objectives included adding on a dining room; expanding the master bedroom and downstairs studio spaces; maximizing natural light; and continuing occupancy throughout.
The through-block property is sited between a high-traffic road and another that provides vehicular access to the house. The architect’s solution effectively reversed the entry sequence. The studio elevation, with the master bedroom, dining room and terrace above, is now the formal front of the house, while the former front entrance from the busy road is now secondary.
Today, visitors arrive at the new primary entrance, greeted by a façade suggesting a simple folded ribbon: metal panels that wrap the expanded master bedroom and the new terrace.
Recladding with fiber cement composite rainscreen (a choice inspired by the clients’ travels in Finland) unifies the addition with the existing. The new dining room enjoys views of Meadowlands sunsets through the 12-foot length of full-height glass and the cable rails of the new deck outside. The L-shaped artist studio/office downstairs now gains light from transom-height windows running the width of the house.

For this main floor renovation, the kitchen was gutted and a new kitchen in an MDF Michigan door style was installed. We did bookcase style shelving on the side of the peninsula facing the living room. The kitchen features a coffee station, quartz countertops and a hexagon tile backsplash. An Virtuo Granite, black pearl sink with matching faucet and strainers were installed. The kitchen has 2 majic corners and a recycling/garbage centre. A grey porcelain tile floor was installed throughout the kitchen to bring it all together. Engineered hardwood flooring was installed throughout the family room, dining room, front entrance, stairs going up and the second level. The half wall was removed between the family room and dining room. The new linear gas fireplace was installed with a tile surround and barn wood beam. In the dining area, floating bookcases with crown moulding were installed on either side of the window. The ceiling lights were all replaced with new fixtures. The powder on the main floor was completely gutted. The engineered hardwood continued into the powder room, were we installed a new toilet, vanity and top and matte black accessories to match. A new door was installed with matching black hardware.
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Patrick & Makayla knew they needed to update their 1989 kitchen into something incredible as they envisioned a more open and functional space that reflected contemporary design trends and better fit their daily needs.
A wall between kitchen and family room was removed to create the open area they were looking for.
Sollid Designer Series cabinets in Dove White were chosen for their perimeter while they opted for a cozy wood accent for their island, greatly enhancing the kitchen's aesthetics. To further enhance their cabinetry, they selected a large cove crown molding and a modern light rail molding to complete the look.
To compliment their beautiful new cabinets, they selected the stunning Montreal Quartz for their countertops, continuing up to the backsplash, which integrates seamlessly with a new single basin undermount kitchen sink and a stylish faucet in a gold finish.
A new island was built, featuring full depth cabinets on both sides for optimal storage. Their cabinets were equipped with modern electrical solutions for appliances as well as multiple organizational accessories including a tiered cutlery divider, a peg organizer for pots and pans, and a trash and recycling pull out.
This island not only serves as the centerpiece but also as a practical feature with ample workspace and storage.
The installation of new LED strip lighting under the cabinets improved visibility and added a warm ambiance to the kitchen.
The finished project met all of Patrick & Makayla's expectations, turning their dated kitchen into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space.

Patrick & Makayla knew they needed to update their 1989 kitchen into something incredible as they envisioned a more open and functional space that reflected contemporary design trends and better fit their daily needs.
A wall between kitchen and family room was removed to create the open area they were looking for.
Sollid Designer Series cabinets in Dove White were chosen for their perimeter while they opted for a cozy wood accent for their island, greatly enhancing the kitchen's aesthetics. To further enhance their cabinetry, they selected a large cove crown molding and a modern light rail molding to complete the look.
To compliment their beautiful new cabinets, they selected the stunning Montreal Quartz for their countertops, continuing up to the backsplash, which integrates seamlessly with a new single basin undermount kitchen sink and a stylish faucet in a gold finish.
A new island was built, featuring full depth cabinets on both sides for optimal storage. Their cabinets were equipped with modern electrical solutions for appliances as well as multiple organizational accessories including a tiered cutlery divider, a peg organizer for pots and pans, and a trash and recycling pull out.
This island not only serves as the centerpiece but also as a practical feature with ample workspace and storage.
The installation of new LED strip lighting under the cabinets improved visibility and added a warm ambiance to the kitchen.
The finished project met all of Patrick & Makayla's expectations, turning their dated kitchen into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space.

A married pair of artists sought to expand and adapt this salt box-style house into a functional, attractive live/work space while retaining certain nostalgic elements (this was the wife’s childhood home.) Their objectives included adding on a dining room; expanding the master bedroom and downstairs studio spaces; maximizing natural light; and continuing occupancy throughout.
The through-block property is sited between a high-traffic road and another that provides vehicular access to the house. The architect’s solution effectively reversed the entry sequence. The studio elevation, with the master bedroom, dining room and terrace above, is now the formal front of the house, while the former front entrance from the busy road is now secondary.
Today, visitors arrive at the new primary entrance, greeted by a façade suggesting a simple folded ribbon: metal panels that wrap the expanded master bedroom and the new terrace.
Recladding with fiber cement composite rainscreen (a choice inspired by the clients’ travels in Finland) unifies the addition with the existing. The new dining room enjoys views of Meadowlands sunsets through the 12-foot length of full-height glass and the cable rails of the new deck outside. The L-shaped artist studio/office downstairs now gains light from transom-height windows running the width of the house.

A married pair of artists sought to expand and adapt this salt box-style house into a functional, attractive live/work space while retaining certain nostalgic elements (this was the wife’s childhood home.) Their objectives included adding on a dining room; expanding the master bedroom and downstairs studio spaces; maximizing natural light; and continuing occupancy throughout.
The through-block property is sited between a high-traffic road and another that provides vehicular access to the house. The architect’s solution effectively reversed the entry sequence. The studio elevation, with the master bedroom, dining room and terrace above, is now the formal front of the house, while the former front entrance from the busy road is now secondary.
Today, visitors arrive at the new primary entrance, greeted by a façade suggesting a simple folded ribbon: metal panels that wrap the expanded master bedroom and the new terrace.
Recladding with fiber cement composite rainscreen (a choice inspired by the clients’ travels in Finland) unifies the addition with the existing. The new dining room enjoys views of Meadowlands sunsets through the 12-foot length of full-height glass and the cable rails of the new deck outside. The L-shaped artist studio/office downstairs now gains light from transom-height windows running the width of the house.

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Columbus, OH
Wannemacher Interiors
Customized Award-Winning Interior Design Solutions in Franklin Cnty OH

Staging this condo was quite the experience. You walk up a narrow flight of stairs and you arrive on the first floor where there is a dining room, kitchen and a living room.
Next floor up is a mezzanine where we created an office which overlooked the living room and there was a powder room on the floor.
Up another flight of stairs and you arrive at the hallway which goes off to two bedrooms and a full bathroom as well as the laundry area.
Up one more flight of stairs and you are on the rooftop, overlooking Montreal.
We staged this entire gem because there were so many floors and we wanted to continue the cozy, inviting look throughout the condo.
If you are thinking about selling your property or would like a consultation, give us a call. We work with great realtors and would love to help you get your home ready for the market.
We have been staging for over 16 years and own all our furniture and accessories.
Call 514-222-5553 and ask for Joanne

For this main floor renovation, the kitchen was gutted and a new kitchen in an MDF Michigan door style was installed. We did bookcase style shelving on the side of the peninsula facing the living room. The kitchen features a coffee station, quartz countertops and a hexagon tile backsplash. An Virtuo Granite, black pearl sink with matching faucet and strainers were installed. The kitchen has 2 majic corners and a recycling/garbage centre. A grey porcelain tile floor was installed throughout the kitchen to bring it all together. Engineered hardwood flooring was installed throughout the family room, dining room, front entrance, stairs going up and the second level. The half wall was removed between the family room and dining room. The new linear gas fireplace was installed with a tile surround and barn wood beam. In the dining area, floating bookcases with crown moulding were installed on either side of the window. The ceiling lights were all replaced with new fixtures. The powder on the main floor was completely gutted. The engineered hardwood continued into the powder room, were we installed a new toilet, vanity and top and matte black accessories to match. A new door was installed with matching black hardware.

This custom storage installation was completed as part of a full condominium renovation in the Capilano building at Woodcroft, 2024 Fullerton Ave., North Vancouver. The goal was to improve functionality while maintaining a cohesive and modern design throughout the unit.
The full-height cabinetry provides generous built-in storage and was designed to match the kitchen cabinetry, creating visual continuity between the kitchen and adjacent areas. Matte cabinet fronts paired with black hardware maintain the clean contemporary aesthetic used across the renovation.
A special blind cabinet door system was incorporated to allow full access to deep storage areas, maximizing usability while keeping the exterior design simple and streamlined. The project also included a den redesign with custom storage solutions, improving organization and making better use of the available space.
These upgrades were integrated with the broader renovation, which included kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovation, flooring replacement, and layout improvements. As with many projects in the Woodcroft high-rise complex, the work required careful coordination with strata management and building requirements to complete the permitted renovation smoothly.

Patrick & Makayla knew they needed to update their 1989 kitchen into something incredible as they envisioned a more open and functional space that reflected contemporary design trends and better fit their daily needs.
A wall between kitchen and family room was removed to create the open area they were looking for.
Sollid Designer Series cabinets in Dove White were chosen for their perimeter while they opted for a cozy wood accent for their island, greatly enhancing the kitchen's aesthetics. To further enhance their cabinetry, they selected a large cove crown molding and a modern light rail molding to complete the look.
To compliment their beautiful new cabinets, they selected the stunning Montreal Quartz for their countertops, continuing up to the backsplash, which integrates seamlessly with a new single basin undermount kitchen sink and a stylish faucet in a gold finish.
A new island was built, featuring full depth cabinets on both sides for optimal storage. Their cabinets were equipped with modern electrical solutions for appliances as well as multiple organizational accessories including a tiered cutlery divider, a peg organizer for pots and pans, and a trash and recycling pull out.
This island not only serves as the centerpiece but also as a practical feature with ample workspace and storage.
The installation of new LED strip lighting under the cabinets improved visibility and added a warm ambiance to the kitchen.
The finished project met all of Patrick & Makayla's expectations, turning their dated kitchen into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space.

Timex Metals is a reliable Wire Mesh Manufacturer in India, offering high-performance mesh products for industrial, commercial, construction, engineering, and infrastructure applications. We manufacture our products using quality materials and precise production methods to achieve excellent strength, durability, dimensional accuracy, and long-term performance. As an experienced Wire Mesh Supplier in India, we cater to diverse project requirements with dependable solutions designed to meet demanding industry standards.
Our product portfolio includes Expanded Metal Mesh for walkways, safety barriers, partitions, ventilation, screening, and industrial protection, along with Stainless Steel Wire Mesh for applications requiring superior corrosion resistance and durability. We also provide Welded Wire Mesh for structural, construction, and fabrication requirements, while our Sintered Mesh is suitable for precision filtration, separation, and screening applications where consistent performance and reliability are essential. Each product is developed to deliver efficient operation, reduced maintenance, and lasting value.
With a strong emphasis on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Timex Metals continues to serve domestic and international markets, including Qatar and the USA, while expanding its presence across South Africa and Nepal. We are also recognized as a Triply Circles Manufacturer in India, supplying products aligned with evolving industrial requirements and international quality expectations.

Staging this condo was quite the experience. You walk up a narrow flight of stairs and you arrive on the first floor where there is a dining room, kitchen and a living room.
Next floor up is a mezzanine where we created an office which overlooked the living room and there was a powder room on the floor.
Up another flight of stairs and you arrive at the hallway which goes off to two bedrooms and a full bathroom as well as the laundry area.
Up one more flight of stairs and you are on the rooftop, overlooking Montreal.
We staged this entire gem because there were so many floors and we wanted to continue the cozy, inviting look throughout the condo.
If you are thinking about selling your property or would like a consultation, give us a call. We work with great realtors and would love to help you get your home ready for the market.
We have been staging for over 16 years and own all our furniture and accessories.
Call 514-222-5553 and ask for Joanne

With the 2022 collection, LEICHT is documenting its expertise in high-grade interior design far beyond the confines of the kitchen. The manufacturer from Waldstetten, Germany, offers an impressive variety of options for planning and designing the entire living space – thus positioning itself as a future-oriented player at a time when the kitchen and cross-room living are increasingly being thought of as an entity. LEICHT’s architectural kitchens can be found in modern, timeless buildings. Here, the company takes all aesthetic desires and individual needs into consideration and offers maximum design freedom in the cross-room planning scenario – from the open-plan kitchen area and living space to bathroom solutions and contemporary dressing rooms. With the new collection, LEICHT is making a powerful statement about its exemplary design of all kinds of forms of living in 2022 and beyond. The company possesses the necessary know-how for this as well as the appropriate product portfolio of high-quality materials, sensitively coordinated colours and innovative techniques. Furthermore, the new collection focuses, on the one hand, on its innovative new M8 interior frame, a filigree, subtly concealed product, and, on the other, the continuation of the successful real wood surface programme BOSSA. Overall, the collection combines precise workmanship, elegant as well as graphically clear design and a high level of functionality, while offering that certain special something in the living space.

Nestled in the hills of Orinda, California, this 1951 residence is one of only seven extant homes, now known as “The Magnificent Seven”, designed by architect Olof Dahlstrand, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. With its low-slung rooflines, natural materials, and deep integration with the sloping landscape, the home is a pristine example of mid-century modern design inspired by Wright’s organic principles. Over the years, prior homeowners have emphasized preservation, ensuring that the house remained relatively untouched. Each owner has respected the original architecture and stayed true to Dahlstrand’s intent. When a family of five—two college-aged sons and a middle school-aged daughter—acquired the property, they were captivated by its history, legacy of care, and architectural significance. While they appreciated Dahlstrand’s original vision, they also recognized the need to adapt the home for contemporary living while preserving its design integrity.
The remodel was conceived as a thoughtful response to the past—an effort to bring the house into the 21st century without compromising its soul. The primary mandate was to maintain architectural continuity while improving the functionality, comfort, and livability for a modern family. The design team—architects and contractor alike—worked with a shared reverence for the original architecture, allowing that mindset to guide even the most technical or pragmatic decisions.
A key objective was to increase natural light in the kitchen—a departure from Wrightian principles of enclosed, intimate cooking spaces—while maintaining the home’s architectural language. The kitchen was reconfigured to foster a stronger connection to adjacent living spaces while retaining the underlying concept of spatial separation. One of the most transformative architectural changes was the removal of a ridge beam that was originally planned to remain visible through the kitchen. During construction, the team collaborated on a better solution: a wide-flanged steel beam concealed within the roof envelope. This subtle move preserved the clean lines and ceiling continuity, a modern update carried out with utmost respect for the existing framework.
The home’s original powder room, previously accessible only through the kitchen, was relocated for better flow and privacy. A new powder room was carved out of former kitchen cabinetry—a narrow, interior space that could have felt dark and enclosed. To avoid this, the design extended the line of original transom windows into the new powder room and added a skylight above the vanity. The result is a bright and airy space that feels consistent with the rest of the home. Other updates included the installation of new solid-core interior doors with veneers carefully matched to the original mahogany, enhancing the continuity of the interiors. Even smaller decisions, such as placing the door knobs at 42 inches high, mirrored the original proportions. Every choice reflected a shared belief between the architect, contractor, and client: that new work should serve the integrity of the old.
The home’s extensive interior redwood millwork and paneling was meticulously restored. Where new materials were introduced—such as the replacement redwood soffit paneling—the contractor took pains to find finish nails that matched the original, rather than using modern equivalents. This level of craftsmanship and collaboration defined the project. It extended even to the detailing of a blind door to the new powder room, which had to disappear into the existing redwood board-and-batten wall. It was a team effort: the owner found a suitable handle, the architects devised the custom in-swing mechanism, and the contractor executed it so the door aligned precisely with the battens. Throughout, the homeowners were deeply engaged in the design process. One, a meticulous design enthusiast, focused on aesthetic integrity and historic detail. The other brought a practical and function-driven perspective, ensuring that new fixtures and materials would be durable and require minimal maintenance.
While the home’s location posed no major site challenges, sustainability was a key concern. The team upgraded the roof insulation, installed solar panels with battery storage, and added ductless mini-split cooling systems. Lighting was another area where modern technology was woven into a historic framework: new square LED fixtures echo the original custom perimeter soffit lights, maintaining the design language while offering advanced performance.
A planned expansion of a bedroom into suite with a bathroom had to be shelved due to budget constraints and the high cost of below-grade foundation work. Still, the team focused their efforts on making the most of the existing footprint, resolving constraints through design ingenuity rather than adding square footage. This renovation represents a collaborative achievement in preserving and evolving a historically significant home. Every decision was shaped by a shared ethos among clients, architects, and contractor: to maintain the home’s architectural soul while updating it for contemporary life. The result is a timeless modernist residence that continues Olof Dahlstrand’s legacy, remaining grounded in nature, craftsmanship, and human-scale design.
Klopf Architecture Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane, Fernanda Bernardes
Interior Architectural Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao
Contractor: Don Larwood, Larwood Construction
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2022

When you have a family room that is a little small and serves dual purposes, you need to be creative with your design solutions.
In this family room, we designed a custom media unit that provided plenty of storage as well as open display shelving.
If you are designing a custom media unit, you need to make sure it is properly balanced, especially when you are designing wall to wall custom millwork.
I love a well-designed media unit!
Looking for a different and unique idea for your fireplace?
Have you considered installing a large-format porcelain slab instead of using standard tiles?

This South Shore of Boston couple reached out to Renovisions to design and build a beautiful, maintenance free and easy to use ‘his and hers’ master bathroom with plenty of storage. The former bath which had a single sink, one mirror, a vanity cabinet with not enough storage and a tired fiberglass shower stall was the last room in their home to be remodeled. They envisioned a more spa-like feel with a brighter walk-in shower and stylish cabinetry with double sinks and more storage.
Renovisions re-designed this bath with a fresh approach to a classic style; boasting two sinks and framed mirrors that match the custom oak cabinetry with a grey stain and cherused finish (a process that allows raising of the wood grain, creating a beautiful texture).
Choosing a white and grey palette with Carrara-look tiles in the shower opened up the space, tied in nicely with the weathered grey vanity and exemplified the feeling of casual luxury. The bright and airy walk-in shower with double recessed niches and dual shower heads affords both his and hers showering needs. Stunning and dramatic chevron patterned mosaic glass tile defines the niche spaces and lends a pretty, decorative touch to the overall look. The soft blue-green hue on the walls match perfectly with this tile and continue the serene and spa-like appeal throughout the bath.
Replacing the existing double-hung window with a smaller, decorative cut glass casement window not only provided a stunning focal point to the bathroom, but also allowed for additional cabinetry that includes a pull-out hamper and two deep drawers. Silestone’s stunning ‘white diamond’ quartz looks great with the color scheme and provides more countertop space for make-up and cosmetics.
The clients were thrilled with their ‘Renovision’ that imparts clean aesthetic and beautifully appointed classic details.
"Just wanted to say thank you for a job well done. We absolutely love our bathroom. From start to finish you were all so pleasant and professional. The fact that Ed is determined to come up with a solution for our bathroom door shows your commitment to your clients and the pride you take in your work. I can say from experience that not all contractors would care to or be as determined as Ed to say “I will come up with a solution just give me some time” especially after being paid in full. So thank you again. I would highly recommend your company to anyone looking for a bathroom ‘Renovision’! All the best!"
- Dan & Deb S. (Hanover)

Gothic Cabinet Craft has made custom furniture for over 40 years. Whether you need a custom fit built-in wall unit of cabinets or a unique piece that until now has only been in your imagination, Gothic can make it for you.
With the American Dream and a lot of hard work. Gothic Cabinet Craft was started in 1969 in NYC by a Greek immigrant Theodore Zaharopoulos, who was determined to make it. With a focus on quality and affordability, our founder's designs evolved into practical storage solutions for urban areas.
The Original ™ Storage, Original ™ Platform, and Original ™ Captains beds were all developed by him and are now a common staple in all furniture stores. A family operated business, Gothic continues to offer high quality affordable furniture for every home. To back this up, Gothic is one of the only furniture companies anywhere in the world to provide a lifetime warranty. Now serving the entire US, Gothic is the largest manufacturer of unfinished furniture on the East Coast.
Gothic Cabinet Craft is a family operated business that manufacturers affordable real wood furniture for every room in your home. Stop into our stores today and experience the Gothic difference.

THE SETUP
“You have to figure out how to rebuild a life worth living,” Basia Kozub’s client says. Her husband passed away suddenly three years ago. Holidays with family became more important, and she found herself struggling with a 37-year old kitchen that was falling apart. “I made a decision to move forward,” she says. “I went, ‘You know what? I’m redoing the kitchen.'”
The big task of getting started was as easy as having a conversation – literally. Basia was on the job, helping the client sort through priorities, wishes and ideas. Basia’s client is 5′ 4″, likes keeping an eye on the kiddoes in the backyard and wanted certain things to have their own place.
THE REMODEL
The objectives were:
Enlarge and open the space
Find a classic look that incorporates blues
Upgrade to easy-to-use appliances
Hide an office space within the space
Ample storage for dishes
Design challenges:
Uneven window alignment on the back wall
Original kitchen smaller than desired, stuctural concerns if walls to be moved
Keep folks close – figure out seating for entertaining
Main sink in corner is ideal, but windows are hard to reach
Lots of storage needed for dishes, glass collection, pantry items, bar bottles and office supplies
Specific storage needs for oft-used spices and utensils
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design solutions:
Replace back wall windows, establish window size continuity
Take out two walls to open up the space, tall shallow cabinet and a tall filler added to conceal a new header
Large island that seats six easily
Custom corner sink cabinet with recessed edge allows vertically challenged homeowner to reach the windows
Mindful storage planning features: plenty of cabinets, pull-out bar bottle storage, file drawers & cubbies with pocket doors for office appliances, magic corner pullouts, and appliance garages with pocket doors
Shelf behind range for easy access to daily-use spices and oils. Also: spice and utensil pullouts on either side of range
The clients says every priority and wish box got checked. The highly functional design absorbed everything that used to be in that area of the house, but now those things are out of the way.
“In the past, we were all spread out when we gathered for the holidays, because we had to spread out. Now, we’re all in here together, including my 92-year old mother. We’re visiting, cooking, laughing… everyone is here. And I’m really learning how to use these appliances. This kitchen has given me a whole new life.”

The Roger Lee designed house from 1962 was purchased by the current homeowners in almost original condition, as the previous owners elected to defer most maintenance projects over the years. The clients were able to see beyond the dated materials and finishes, single-paned glass and uninsulated walls and they approached Klopf Architecture to help them expand and update the entire home, one the family could settle into and enjoy for years to come. It was important that the new designs were aligned with Lee's original intent not only because of the client's appreciation for mid-century modern architecture, but also because the house was deemed historical. The Stanford Real Estate Office requires a stringent design review which safeguards the integrity of the community, which Klopf Architecture was happy to oblige going into their updated designs.
As with many original mid-century modern homes, the house was scaled to the 1960s lifestyle where rooms were smaller and openings to views were limited and tightly framed. The original conditions defined the direction the family of four would take in updating the house and making it comfortable for their modern lifestyle. Klopf designed a full gut remodel and major addition to bring the house into the 21st century and provide the living area needed for the client's family. The newly expanded house added just about 1,100 sf to create an airy, comfortable and family friendly house, taking full advantage of the beautiful southwestern views that extend out to the hills beyond. The enclosed garage created an additional 240 sf of covered space for long-term storage.
A cracked swimming pool created an eyesore taking up a majority of the backyard landscape, so it was one of the first elements to go during the transformation. Working with Outer Space Landscape Architects, the family asked for a mix of relaxing outdoor patio spaces that eventually blend into the native landscaping, extending their views outward toward the natural greenery of the trees beyond their property. Filling in the old pool was a smart way to expand the living spaces outward. The orientation of the house was designed to enjoy the views, but the original architecture provided the first homeowners with mere glimpses of the landscape outside.
Klopf was able to broaden those views, continuing and extending on the original architecture to take full advantage of the unobstructed natural views across the rear facade of the house. Small horizontal openings in the primary bedroom and office were replaced with much taller windows that now follow the angled roof line upward, extending across almost all of the facade. We worked with Western Windows, whose designs included an oblique-shaped, operable casement that allowed our design to rise with the slope. A new corner office added to the primary suite, offers a bright and functional work-from-home solution that looks out at the distant views and added natural light from the expanded window configuration that now wraps around the corner.
The existing lower level was designed by Lee as a utilitarian space, serving as a wet pool room with a drain in the center of the floor, bathroom, laundry and storage areas. Without the need for a pool room, Klopf was able to convert the area into a much more comfortable and functional living space with a new family room and guest suite. The new spaces enjoy easy access to a new outdoor patio through floor to ceiling, full-width glass sliders.
Continuing along the rear facade, a previously exposed deck extending from the living room and hallway provided access to the backyard through a single set of stairs leading toward the side of the house which made sense when the pool was in place. The new deck was re-envisioned as an extension of the main living room and now serves as a second outdoor living room. A new slatted pergola above provides the homeowners welcome relief from the hot afternoon sun. A second set of stairs now creates a better connection to the redesigned lower level. Klopf was able to reconfigure the spaces, extending the living room outward toward the views, where the family now claims it as the heart of the home, spending a large majority of their time outdoors.
Back inside, the original wood-burning Malm fireplace was beautifully restored and a gas burner installed to comply with California's strict air standards. It now rests in front of a wall of Heath accent tiles where a dated red brick wall used to stand. A new taller window brings more light and views into the refreshed interior living room. The original glass doors opposite the fireplace were replaced by larger sliders that when fully opened, create a seamless transition to the new outdoor living area so the two spaces feel like one connected space. The original utilitarian kitchen was needlessly tucked into the far back corner and closed-off, out of sight from the living room, so the clients asked Klopf to open it up and expand the kitchen forward so it felt more connected. Today the much larger kitchen is connected to the living area where a short wall with a cutout offers a visual glimpse into the kitchen and a handy pass-through counter for serving guests. A new breakfast nook was also added to create another spot where the family can gather for casual meals. Just outside, a new built-in outdoor grill and prep area extends the kitchen outside and connects to a new outdoor dining spot nestled amongst the trees, taking advantage of the views out back.
Klopf was able to expand the other two bedrooms, add a new laundry room and half-bath and convert the carport to an enclosed garage to add more storage areas which was lost when the pool house was converted to the family and guest room.
To maintain a historical connection to the original designs, the exterior siding was repeated on all exterior walls, a full-height stained glass window at the front entryway restored, and an interior slatted screen element repeated outside at the exterior entry courtyard and over the new outdoor living room to create a shade trellis. The new house stands proudly and shines against it's new landscaping features, while respecting and expanding on the original intent of Roger Lee's designs epitomizing the comforts of indoor-outdoor living in Northern California.
Completion year: 2020
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane, Noel Andrade
Contractor: ORB Construction, Brendan O'Reilly
Structural engineer: Sezen and Moon
Landscape architect: Outer space
Furnishings and decoration: Urbanism Designs
Photographer: Mariko Reed
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