Search results for "Strategic thinking" in Home Design Ideas

With a thoughtful use of lighting and carefully curated furniture, this 1,000 sq ft Mid-Levels apartment with unsightly columns and beams is transformed into a cosy Scandinavian home with a Japanese touch.
When you think of designing a home, one does not usually put Japanese and Nordic together. But Clifton was inspired by the compatibility of the two cultures, which both emphasise minimalism, to bring out this eye-catching fusion project.
Earth tones reminiscent of Scandinavian design are used throughout the apartment, allowing it to look more spacious and comfortable.
Upon entering the apartment, one is quickly greeted by the Japanese style living room, which oozes Zen with a faux fur carpet and flatter furniture pieces including a Fritz Hansen sofa in pink, side table from Habitat, dining table from HAY and pendent lamps from Louis Poulsen.
The apartment is blessed with a high ceiling, but nonetheless, its columns and beams originally made it appear smaller. But with a clever use of lighting, such as indirect lighting on top of the beams and strategic placement of lamps on the columns, the flaws are concealed and the unit appears taller, bigger and more comfortable.
Similarly, the kitchen is transformed into an open one with an island, so the owners, both social butterflies, can invite their friends over for gatherings.
Besides catering to the two adult owners, Clifton did not forget about their fur friend Buddy, a Bichon Frise. To ensure that Buddy does not feel left out at night, while ensuring the couple can have some privacy in their bedroom, a small square hole was made in the door for him to freely move in and out.

With a thoughtful use of lighting and carefully curated furniture, this 1,000 sq ft Mid-Levels apartment with unsightly columns and beams is transformed into a cosy Scandinavian home with a Japanese touch.
When you think of designing a home, one does not usually put Japanese and Nordic together. But Clifton was inspired by the compatibility of the two cultures, which both emphasise minimalism, to bring out this eye-catching fusion project.
Earth tones reminiscent of Scandinavian design are used throughout the apartment, allowing it to look more spacious and comfortable.
Upon entering the apartment, one is quickly greeted by the Japanese style living room, which oozes Zen with a faux fur carpet and flatter furniture pieces including a Fritz Hansen sofa in pink, side table from Habitat, dining table from HAY and pendent lamps from Louis Poulsen.
The apartment is blessed with a high ceiling, but nonetheless, its columns and beams originally made it appear smaller. But with a clever use of lighting, such as indirect lighting on top of the beams and strategic placement of lamps on the columns, the flaws are concealed and the unit appears taller, bigger and more comfortable.
Similarly, the kitchen is transformed into an open one with an island, so the owners, both social butterflies, can invite their friends over for gatherings.
Besides catering to the two adult owners, Clifton did not forget about their fur friend Buddy, a Bichon Frise. To ensure that Buddy does not feel left out at night, while ensuring the couple can have some privacy in their bedroom, a small square hole was made in the door for him to freely move in and out.

Eichler X-100 Kitchen: A Futuristic Vision of Function and Design
The kitchen of the Eichler X-100 is not just a place to cook—it is a designed system, a forward-thinking experiment in how everyday living could be streamlined, modernized, and elevated through architecture. Envisioned by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons for Joseph Eichler, the space reflects a bold reimagining of the American kitchen in the mid-20th century.
A Central Hub of the Home
Positioned within the home’s central utility core, the kitchen is strategically located to connect all major living zones. Rather than being tucked away, it becomes a functional anchor, allowing for seamless interaction between cooking, dining, and gathering spaces.
This layout reinforces Eichler’s philosophy:
the kitchen is not separate—it’s part of everyday life.
Innovation Built In
What sets the X-100 kitchen apart is its integration of experimental, built-in features that were far ahead of their time.
Highlights include:
A sliding dining table with integrated electric burners, blending cooking and dining into one continuous experience
Built-in appliances and systems, designed to reduce clutter and maximize efficiency
Thoughtful ergonomic planning that simplifies daily routines
These elements reflect a larger idea:
that the home should work for you—not the other way around.
Material as Modern Expression
The kitchen showcases extensive use of laminate surfaces (Formica)—a material that, in the 1950s, symbolized innovation, durability, and modern living. Clean, smooth, and easy to maintain, these surfaces reinforce the home’s futuristic identity.
Paired with steel structure and clean lines, the material palette creates a space that feels both industrial and approachable.
Open, Light-Filled Design
True to the X-100’s overall concept, the kitchen is fully integrated into the open-plan layout. Sightlines extend outward to living areas, glass walls, and even interior gardens, ensuring the space never feels enclosed.
Natural light filters in from multiple directions, enhanced by skylights and reflective surfaces, giving the kitchen a bright, uplifting atmosphere throughout the day.
A Prototype for Modern Living
In many ways, the X-100 kitchen anticipated how we live today:
Open-concept layouts
Multi-functional islands and dining spaces
Integrated appliances
Clean, minimal design
What feels standard now was radical in 1956.
Where Design Meets Daily Life
The kitchen of the Eichler X-100 is a perfect example of how architecture can elevate the everyday. It transforms routine into experience—where cooking, gathering, and living all happen within a single, beautifully orchestrated space.
It’s not just a kitchen.
It’s a glimpse into the future—designed decades ahead of its time.
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As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows.
FEATURES:
1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness.
2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation.
3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder.
4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use.
5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings.
6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility.
7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple.
Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty.
Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance.
To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

Eblindstore Project Story: Custom Window Treatments for Shan Linn's Home
At Eblindstore, we recently completed an exciting project for our client, Shan Linn, whose beautiful home featured high ceilings and a variety of rooms, including a grand living room, a welcoming entryway, a child’s room, a kitchen, a dining room, and a secondary dining area. This project allowed us to showcase our expertise in creating tailored window treatment solutions that balanced functionality and elegance.
Living Room Elegance
The centerpiece of the home was the high-ceilinged living room. To enhance its grandeur, we installed three motorized roller shades, perfect for controlling light and privacy with ease. Above these, we added tall, flowing drapery panels for a sophisticated touch that complemented the space’s architecture.
Functional Design for the Kitchen and Dining Areas
In the kitchen, practicality met style with chain-operated roller shades, providing an efficient and easy-to-maintain solution. For the larger dining room, we combined roller shades with light-blocking drapery panels, strategically designed to minimize sunlight exposure in high-glare areas.
Future-Ready Features
Understanding our client’s preferences and anticipating future needs, we ensured that all chain-operated roller shades were equipped with mechanisms that could easily be upgraded to motorized systems if desired. This forward-thinking approach added flexibility to the project.
Economical Solutions for the Basement
To keep the project budget-conscious without compromising quality, we opted for chain-operated roller shades for the basement windows. These provided a clean, modern look while maintaining cost efficiency.
Attention to Detail
Shan Linn’s father, a mechanical engineer, took a keen interest in the technical details of our work. We addressed all his questions with precision, demonstrating our thorough understanding of the project. This attention to detail, paired with our transparent pricing and efficient timelines, left a strong impression on our client and her family.
Expanding the Vision
Shan Linn was so pleased with the results that she is already considering partnering with us again to outfit the upper floors of her home. This project was completed well within the timeline, offering her a seamless and stress-free experience.
At Eblindstore, we pride ourselves on turning custom window treatment ideas into reality, delivering exceptional quality, and exceeding expectations.

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows.
FEATURES:
1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness.
2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation.
3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder.
4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use.
5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings.
6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility.
7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple.
Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty.
Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance.
To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

Kitchen in 45th Place | Budget-Friendly Kitchen Remodel in Phoenix, AZ |
Room Type: Kitchen Remodel |
Project Name: 45th Place |
Key Feature: A transitional kitchen remodel that proves smart material selections and a clear design vision can deliver a high-impact result without a luxury budget.
Challenge: The kitchen needed a full refresh but the project had real budget constraints. The challenge was making intentional material choices that looked elevated and cohesive without overspending, while still delivering the clean, transitional aesthetic the clients wanted.
Solution: Living with Lolo approached this as a design problem first, identifying where to invest and where to pull back without sacrificing the overall look. Budget-friendly materials were selected strategically so the finished kitchen felt intentional and designed rather than value-engineered. The result is a space that punches above its price point because the design thinking behind it was sound from the start.
Materials: Budget-conscious cabinetry, transitional hardware and fixtures, and durable countertop surfaces selected for both value and visual impact.
Budget: $30,000 to $75,000 |
Timeline: Completed approximately 2019, roughly 2 to 4 months from design through completion.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

As the designer behind this master bathroom transformation, my mission was clear: to breathe new life into an outdated and dimly lit space while catering to my client's distinct desires. The project was marked by the client's unwavering commitment to enhancing functionality privacy and preserving the owner’s cherished MTI tub, all while adhering to the unalterable presence of existing windows.
FEATURES:
1. A glass pass-through between rooms allows natural light to flow freely, promoting a sense of openness.
2. The ceiling-mounted sliding glass door hardware elevates the shower experience with taller glass panels and effortless operation.
3. Accessibility and safety were paramount, resulting in a zero-entry shower, strategically placed grab bars, and an 'assist' TP holder.
4. To cater to varying preferences, a main showerhead and hand shower were accessible for standing and bench use.
5. A shared glass door between rooms eliminated the inconvenience of cumbersome door swings.
6. Privacy was enhanced through gradient glass etching, ensuring comfort and tranquility.
7. The digital shower system allowed for personalized controls, accommodating the unique preferences of the couple.
Creating a private bath around the existing MTI tub initially seemed insurmountable. However, innovative thinking led to a transformative solution. The drop-in tub was ingeniously converted into a free-standing tub with a narrow quartz deck adorned with a captivating mother-of-pearl mosaic tile surround. A floating walnut shelf at the tub's end introduced practicality and organic beauty.
Black plumbing fixtures were chosen to accentuate the mesmerizing depth of the mother-of-pearl mosaic tile. Horizontal book-matched walnut vanities introduced warmth and character, seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoor view. The white quartz countertop is a refreshing contrast to the intricate finishes, lending a touch of sophistication. The ceiling light over the tub, akin to the icing on a cake, added a final note of elegance.
To meet the client's need for increased storage, the vanities have pullouts & roll-outs. These thoughtful additions ensured effortless access to personal care products. LED-lit medicine cabinets not only provided excellent lighting but also served as storage for everyday essentials. Vanity toe kick lighting is thoughtfully designed with a motion sensor at the entry, providing a guiding path to the water closet. Particularly valued during nighttime, this feature prevents unnecessary lights from illuminating, preserving the tranquility of those in bed.

Whistle Hill Lot 2 residence stands as one of the most architecturally ambitious homes in the development, a striking example of RWH Architect’s commitment to elevating modern design. Defined by its dramatic butterfly roof and a façade composed of clean horizontal cladding, vertical accents, and expansive window groupings, the home captures a sculptural presence rarely seen in the region. This is a residence designed to open itself to its surroundings, embracing light, volume, and long views in a way that signals a new era of contemporary architecture.
The home features an attached three-car garage with an adjacent storage area, creating a practical yet visually streamlined entry sequence. Inside, the first floor is designed around livability and connection to the landscape. The foyer opens into a private office and then flows toward the main living areas. The master suite is intentionally tucked into a quiet corner on the first floor, positioned to overlook the backyard and shaped to allow morning light to filter softly into the space. Adjacent to the master suite is the laundry room, placed strategically for convenience. A secondary bedroom on the first floor includes a walk-in closet, and a nearby three-quarter bath offers flexibility for guests or extended family.
The kitchen serves as the central gathering point of the home, anchored by a large island and complemented by a walk-in pantry. It overlooks an expansive wraparound deck that transitions seamlessly to a lower patio, creating layered outdoor living spaces. Both the dining room and the great room open directly to the deck, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The sunken great room is one of the home’s signature moments, featuring a floating fireplace that appears to hover within the space and accentuates the dramatic ceiling height created by the butterfly roof. The result is a room filled with daylight and volume, a contemporary living environment with an architectural presence that feels both bold and welcoming.
Upstairs, the second floor includes two additional bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a full bathroom designed with modern simplicity. From the upper level, the design allows for open views extending back toward the dining room, creating visual connectivity between floors and emphasizing the vertical openness of the home. This intentional play of volume heightens the spatial experience and enhances the sense of modern airiness throughout the interior.
This residence presented several unique design challenges that ultimately helped refine and elevate the final architectural expression. The sweeping butterfly roof created structural complexities due to its dramatic angles and its role in defining the home’s entire visual identity. RWH addressed this by carefully coordinating structural supports and framing patterns that allowed the roof to appear effortless while maintaining its sculptural form. Another significant challenge was balancing the extensive glazing with the need to preserve privacy and energy performance. RWH solved this by thoughtfully arranging high windows, angled openings, and varied window groupings that capture natural light without compromising comfort. Integrating a sunken great room with a floating fireplace required a precise approach to grading, floor transitions, and structural anchoring. Through detailed modeling and coordination, RWH ensured that the fireplace would appear weightless while remaining fully functional and safe. Creating uninterrupted views from the second floor to the dining room also required creative alignment of floor systems and rail detailing, which RWH resolved by designing sleek, integrated guardrails that preserve openness while meeting safety requirements.
Whistle Hill Lot 2 stands as a bold architectural statement and a defining example of the evolving design language within the development. Through innovative forms, expansive volumes, and carefully orchestrated transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, RWH Architect has created a home that reflects the future of contemporary living in the area—forward-thinking, refined, and undeniably modern.

A cozy balcony garden on a second floor apartment. A new living space created for all members of the family-including a 15 month old.
Small trendy porch idea in Delhi
Small trendy porch idea in Delhi

An elevated modern cottage living room with a custom-built wall unit featuring a sleek bookshelf. Crafted with a keen eye for contemporary design, this project seamlessly blends functionality and style. The unit boasts clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, perfectly complementing the cozy charm of the cottage space. With ample shelving for favourite reads and display items, this bespoke addition transforms the living room into a curated haven of sophistication and comfort.

Whistle Hill Lot 2 residence stands as one of the most architecturally ambitious homes in the development, a striking example of RWH Architect’s commitment to elevating modern design. Defined by its dramatic butterfly roof and a façade composed of clean horizontal cladding, vertical accents, and expansive window groupings, the home captures a sculptural presence rarely seen in the region. This is a residence designed to open itself to its surroundings, embracing light, volume, and long views in a way that signals a new era of contemporary architecture.
The home features an attached three-car garage with an adjacent storage area, creating a practical yet visually streamlined entry sequence. Inside, the first floor is designed around livability and connection to the landscape. The foyer opens into a private office and then flows toward the main living areas. The master suite is intentionally tucked into a quiet corner on the first floor, positioned to overlook the backyard and shaped to allow morning light to filter softly into the space. Adjacent to the master suite is the laundry room, placed strategically for convenience. A secondary bedroom on the first floor includes a walk-in closet, and a nearby three-quarter bath offers flexibility for guests or extended family.
The kitchen serves as the central gathering point of the home, anchored by a large island and complemented by a walk-in pantry. It overlooks an expansive wraparound deck that transitions seamlessly to a lower patio, creating layered outdoor living spaces. Both the dining room and the great room open directly to the deck, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The sunken great room is one of the home’s signature moments, featuring a floating fireplace that appears to hover within the space and accentuates the dramatic ceiling height created by the butterfly roof. The result is a room filled with daylight and volume, a contemporary living environment with an architectural presence that feels both bold and welcoming.
Upstairs, the second floor includes two additional bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a full bathroom designed with modern simplicity. From the upper level, the design allows for open views extending back toward the dining room, creating visual connectivity between floors and emphasizing the vertical openness of the home. This intentional play of volume heightens the spatial experience and enhances the sense of modern airiness throughout the interior.
This residence presented several unique design challenges that ultimately helped refine and elevate the final architectural expression. The sweeping butterfly roof created structural complexities due to its dramatic angles and its role in defining the home’s entire visual identity. RWH addressed this by carefully coordinating structural supports and framing patterns that allowed the roof to appear effortless while maintaining its sculptural form. Another significant challenge was balancing the extensive glazing with the need to preserve privacy and energy performance. RWH solved this by thoughtfully arranging high windows, angled openings, and varied window groupings that capture natural light without compromising comfort. Integrating a sunken great room with a floating fireplace required a precise approach to grading, floor transitions, and structural anchoring. Through detailed modeling and coordination, RWH ensured that the fireplace would appear weightless while remaining fully functional and safe. Creating uninterrupted views from the second floor to the dining room also required creative alignment of floor systems and rail detailing, which RWH resolved by designing sleek, integrated guardrails that preserve openness while meeting safety requirements.
Whistle Hill Lot 2 stands as a bold architectural statement and a defining example of the evolving design language within the development. Through innovative forms, expansive volumes, and carefully orchestrated transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, RWH Architect has created a home that reflects the future of contemporary living in the area—forward-thinking, refined, and undeniably modern.

The Moongate residence seems to rise naturally from the red rocks, its glass curves strategically designed to capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and other remarkable landscapes. This harmonious fusion with nature creates a sense of continuity between inside and out, magnifying the home's overall aesthetic. At the heart of this home, the foyer's glass staircase stands out as a true work of art and engineering prowess. Suspended by steel rods, this staircase with its crystalline stair treads gives the illusion of floating, creating a spectacular visual effect in front of a vast wall of windows. This central element not only adds a touch of modernity and refinement, it also becomes a captivating focal point that impresses from the moment you enter.
This project was awarded the SILVER prize in the INT Grand Prix du Design 2024.
LOCATION: Sedona, Arizona, USA, Collaboration with Swaback Architecture & Design Studio
THICKNESS: 3” (72 mm)
COLOR & TEXTURE: Crystal Granula
EDGE: Polished
SPECIAL FEATURES: Floating steps
Photo credit: Dino Tonn Photography
/ ARCHITECT : RICK WILCOXSON

Architecture and Interior Designing has evolved significantly over the years in response to changing lifestyles, rapid urbanisation, and technological advancements. Today, the focus is no longer just on creating visually appealing spaces, but on designing environments that are intelligent, adaptable, sustainable, and deeply human-centric. Elite 18 reflects this evolution through a modern residential narrative that balances functionality, comfort, and emotional well-being.
Designed by Sandeep & Shreya Sahani, the project responds thoughtfully to the demands of contemporary urban living. As cities continue to grow denser, architecture is increasingly shifting towards smarter planning and efficient use of space. Compact yet breathable layouts, multifunctional areas, and vertical living concepts are becoming essential in modern residential developments. At Elite 18, the design approach embraces openness, fluidity, and practicality, ensuring that spaces remain functional while maintaining a sense of luxury and calm.
Changing lifestyles have also transformed the way homes are designed. With remote work and flexible routines becoming part of everyday life, modern residences now require adaptable spaces that can seamlessly support work, leisure, and social interaction. The interiors at Elite 18 are curated with clean lines, soothing tones, and uncluttered layouts that enhance comfort while supporting modern living patterns.
Technology has further reshaped architecture by introducing smarter and more responsive environments. Contemporary buildings increasingly integrate smart lighting, climate control systems, touchless features, and digital planning tools to improve convenience and efficiency. This shift towards intelligent architecture allows spaces to become more personalised and responsive to user behaviour.
Sustainability has also become a defining aspect of modern architectural thinking. With growing environmental awareness and climate concerns, architects are prioritising energy efficiency, natural ventilation, climate-responsive materials, and sustainable construction practices. At Elite 18, strategic placement of openings, balanced natural light, and thoughtful material selection contribute to a more energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environment.
Overall, architecture today is evolving beyond aesthetics to create spaces that are adaptive, environmentally responsible, and emotionally enriching. Elite 18 stands as a reflection of this transformation, where thoughtful design, sustainability, technology, and modern lifestyles come together to shape the future of urban living.

The Moongate residence seems to rise naturally from the red rocks, its glass curves strategically designed to capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and other remarkable landscapes. This harmonious fusion with nature creates a sense of continuity between inside and out, magnifying the home's overall aesthetic. At the heart of this home, the foyer's glass staircase stands out as a true work of art and engineering prowess. Suspended by steel rods, this staircase with its crystalline stair treads gives the illusion of floating, creating a spectacular visual effect in front of a vast wall of windows. This central element not only adds a touch of modernity and refinement, it also becomes a captivating focal point that impresses from the moment you enter.
This project was awarded the SILVER prize in the INT Grand Prix du Design 2024.
LOCATION: Sedona, Arizona, USA, Collaboration with Swaback Architecture & Design Studio
THICKNESS: 3” (72 mm)
COLOR & TEXTURE: Crystal Granula
EDGE: Polished
SPECIAL FEATURES: Floating steps
Photo credit: Dino Tonn Photography
/ ARCHITECT : RICK WILCOXSON

The Moongate residence seems to rise naturally from the red rocks, its glass curves strategically designed to capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and other remarkable landscapes. This harmonious fusion with nature creates a sense of continuity between inside and out, magnifying the home's overall aesthetic. At the heart of this home, the foyer's glass staircase stands out as a true work of art and engineering prowess. Suspended by steel rods, this staircase with its crystalline stair treads gives the illusion of floating, creating a spectacular visual effect in front of a vast wall of windows. This central element not only adds a touch of modernity and refinement, it also becomes a captivating focal point that impresses from the moment you enter.
This project was awarded the SILVER prize in the INT Grand Prix du Design 2024.
LOCATION: Sedona, Arizona, USA, Collaboration with Swaback Architecture & Design Studio
THICKNESS: 3” (72 mm)
COLOR & TEXTURE: Crystal Granula
EDGE: Polished
SPECIAL FEATURES: Floating steps
Photo credit: Dino Tonn Photography
/ ARCHITECT : RICK WILCOXSON

This Georgian Colonial anchoring the culdesac is just a beauty. It is so apparent that light defines space and more so enables us to see what we see. Strategic landscaping by our crew allowed tall slender trees to anchor the road presentation and support the landscape in the front yard. Ofcourse all the landscape design had great lighting right behind it as well. Various strategies such as cross lighting, front lighting, silhouetting, down lighting and low level lighting allowed accent lighting to shine it's thing on what I thought was some of the most interesting and striking Focal specimens in the Landscape. The levels of brightness play a dominant role in direction of the welcoming of the house to others as there are several options for entry and light brightness helps direct the guests to the door. As most homeowners drive into the garage to enter the home they don't think about the approach in the dark as much as we do. Outdoor lighting on the house and fixtures secured to the home have to be at times toned down or aligned with light intensity to match the landscape lighting. Finish pointing at night and night time photography which we do as part of our landscape lighting installation approach shows these details best.
It gives us an opportunity to adjust beam sprays, add lens covers and readjust the landscape lighting fixtures for more optimal results.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

The design concept balances a fine line between modern masculinity and feminine elegance. Mixing metals and materials were key to achieving a timeless aesthetic throughout the room.
Walnut butcher block table supported on a custom Brass leg frame.
Watermark Faucet
Brass Hardware
Downsview Hood
House Brand Cabinetry
Visual Comfort Lights
Monogram Appliances
Sink: Galley Worksattion
Beveled Herringbone Clay tiles
All above is supplied via Astro Design Centre
Design by Astro
Photo by JVL Photography
Ottawa, Ontario Canada

RWH Architect presents the Whistle Hill Lot 8 Residence, a statement home that reflects a bold shift toward modern, refined design. This contemporary residence is defined by its clean lines, dramatic vertical expressions, and a sophisticated mix of architectural forms that culminate in a truly forward-thinking home. From the moment visitors step into the central courtyard that connects the detached garage to the main house, the project introduces a new level of architectural intention rarely seen in the region.
The detached garage, featuring an expansive 18' x 8' door, creates a strong street presence and anchors the courtyard entry sequence. Passing through the courtyard leads to a welcoming entry foyer designed with built-in hooks and a bench, creating a comfortable—and functional—moment of arrival. Just beyond the entry is a private study with custom built-in bookshelves, a space tailored for work, reading, or quiet focus. The main floor unfolds into a sophisticated open-concept layout where the kitchen, great room, and dining areas flow effortlessly together. The kitchen includes a walk-in pantry, a pot filler for convenience, and a dedicated dog-feeding station that integrates seamlessly into the cabinetry. The great room stands as the heart of the home, featuring a built-in wood-burning fireplace and oversized sliding doors that extend the living space out to a covered patio. A centrally located half bath near the kitchen completes the first-floor program.
All bedrooms are located on the second floor to preserve privacy and capitalize on natural light. The master suite is designed as a luxurious retreat, offering a screened-in porch, a spacious walk-in closet, and a unique bathroom where the walk-in shower wraps around a freestanding tub, creating a spa-like environment that blends innovation with comfort. The laundry room is conveniently positioned on the same floor. Two additional bedrooms share a well-appointed bathroom, completing the second-floor layout.
Several design challenges shaped the evolution of this project and ultimately elevated its architectural clarity. One of the primary challenges was organizing the home around a detached garage while maintaining a cohesive architectural experience. RWH resolved this by creating a courtyard that acts as a transitional outdoor room, visually linking the structures and providing a dramatic yet functional entry sequence. Another challenge involved balancing large modern window systems with the bold vertical elements that define the façade. By carefully proportioning the glazing and framing it within thoughtful material changes, RWH maintained a strong contemporary identity while ensuring visual harmony. Integrating the built-in fireplace, open-concept layout, and large patio openings required complex structural solutions; RWH overcame this by using discreetly integrated structural steel that allowed for wide spans without compromising the home’s clean, minimalist interior aesthetic. Designing the master bathroom’s combined shower-and-tub layout also presented a unique challenge, requiring careful grading, waterproofing, and spatial planning. Through strategic detailing and 3D modeling, RWH delivered a seamless spa-like experience that feels both inventive and intuitively functional.
The Whistle Hill Lot 8 Residence stands as a testament to a new architectural direction in the area—one that embraces innovative forms, curated materials, and a lifestyle-driven floor plan. With its modern massing, intentional interior flow, and elevated details, this home reflects RWH Architect’s commitment to pushing residential design into its next era.

Whistle Hill Lot 2 residence stands as one of the most architecturally ambitious homes in the development, a striking example of RWH Architect’s commitment to elevating modern design. Defined by its dramatic butterfly roof and a façade composed of clean horizontal cladding, vertical accents, and expansive window groupings, the home captures a sculptural presence rarely seen in the region. This is a residence designed to open itself to its surroundings, embracing light, volume, and long views in a way that signals a new era of contemporary architecture.
The home features an attached three-car garage with an adjacent storage area, creating a practical yet visually streamlined entry sequence. Inside, the first floor is designed around livability and connection to the landscape. The foyer opens into a private office and then flows toward the main living areas. The master suite is intentionally tucked into a quiet corner on the first floor, positioned to overlook the backyard and shaped to allow morning light to filter softly into the space. Adjacent to the master suite is the laundry room, placed strategically for convenience. A secondary bedroom on the first floor includes a walk-in closet, and a nearby three-quarter bath offers flexibility for guests or extended family.
The kitchen serves as the central gathering point of the home, anchored by a large island and complemented by a walk-in pantry. It overlooks an expansive wraparound deck that transitions seamlessly to a lower patio, creating layered outdoor living spaces. Both the dining room and the great room open directly to the deck, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The sunken great room is one of the home’s signature moments, featuring a floating fireplace that appears to hover within the space and accentuates the dramatic ceiling height created by the butterfly roof. The result is a room filled with daylight and volume, a contemporary living environment with an architectural presence that feels both bold and welcoming.
Upstairs, the second floor includes two additional bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a full bathroom designed with modern simplicity. From the upper level, the design allows for open views extending back toward the dining room, creating visual connectivity between floors and emphasizing the vertical openness of the home. This intentional play of volume heightens the spatial experience and enhances the sense of modern airiness throughout the interior.
This residence presented several unique design challenges that ultimately helped refine and elevate the final architectural expression. The sweeping butterfly roof created structural complexities due to its dramatic angles and its role in defining the home’s entire visual identity. RWH addressed this by carefully coordinating structural supports and framing patterns that allowed the roof to appear effortless while maintaining its sculptural form. Another significant challenge was balancing the extensive glazing with the need to preserve privacy and energy performance. RWH solved this by thoughtfully arranging high windows, angled openings, and varied window groupings that capture natural light without compromising comfort. Integrating a sunken great room with a floating fireplace required a precise approach to grading, floor transitions, and structural anchoring. Through detailed modeling and coordination, RWH ensured that the fireplace would appear weightless while remaining fully functional and safe. Creating uninterrupted views from the second floor to the dining room also required creative alignment of floor systems and rail detailing, which RWH resolved by designing sleek, integrated guardrails that preserve openness while meeting safety requirements.
Whistle Hill Lot 2 stands as a bold architectural statement and a defining example of the evolving design language within the development. Through innovative forms, expansive volumes, and carefully orchestrated transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, RWH Architect has created a home that reflects the future of contemporary living in the area—forward-thinking, refined, and undeniably modern.
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