Search results for "Strategy" in Home Design Ideas

The West Town GreenStar Retrofit is a historic landmarked two-flat in Ukranian Village that was converted to an efficient, healthy, and modern single-family home, while keeping interior and exterior historic character details. Special emphasis was put on indoor air quality and indoor-outdoor connections. The design focuses on non-toxic materials, good ventilation, low energy and water use, and the biophilic health advantages of light and views of nature. The kitchen, work, and family zones have views of the sun-filled south garden, an oasis in the urban environment containing native plants and fruit trees, rain garden, vegetable garden, chicken coop, apiary, and a patio. Outdoor connection and daylighting are also optimized through the skylight on the top level which spills light down the staircase. The energy strategy began with thorough retrofit insulation and air sealing, and included high performance windows and doors, solar thermal (hot water) and solar photovoltaic (electricity production) systems which support electric vehicle (EV) charging and high-efficiency smart lighting and appliances. HVAC is supplied by a combination of radiant heat, mini-split heat pumps, and a conditioning energy recovery ventilation system (CERV).

CKM Home Design took the sleek, stark space from a blank canvas to a warm mixed media masterpiece by adding layers of texture, color and light.
The client, a fashionable and sophisticated 22-year-old aspiring actress was looking for a warm, glamorous aesthetic that melded with the building’s contemporary vibe and architecture. The space included many typical NYC apartment nuances requiring some creative design strategies and elements: one large open space living/dining area, awkward narrow nook that needed a purpose and some personality but also had some impressive design elements to maximize including the vast oversized windows and high ceilings.
photo red: Peter Rymwid

Natasha Dixon Photography
Edmonton Award Winning Boutique Interior Design Studio
Edmonton's award winning boutique interior design studio. We are ready to listen to your needs and develop the perfect interior design solution for your project.
Marie started interiorsBYDESIGNinc. because she loves what she does and is crazy passionate about creating the perfect space for her clients all within budget! We resource the best products and shop for the perfect materials and finishes that add up to truly unique interiors.
Our passion and attention to detail has also got us amazing media attention. Being voted BEST OF HOUZZ in interior design and customer service SIX YEARS IN A ROW, we've also been featured in local, regional, national and international websites and magazines!
Marie is a true, modern Canadian designer with strong classical roots. Described as fresh, inspired and timeless, Marie has a wide vocabulary of stylistic approaches and artfully balances form, function and style as well she can integrate the past with present trends. Her interiors are nuanced and tailored and have a lasting quality that is always the hallmark of every project. Marie's endless creative ideas, design process and budget strategies expedite a project's process. Simply put - we deliver extraordinary interiors.
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Wild View Farm includes a new “Forever home” (we deconstructed an existing house with a 90% landfill diversion rate), and enhancements to several working barns. The 80 acre site was an original homestead farm from the 1890’s. Both its buildings and soil had become severely degraded. The owners are working to holistically restore this property and make it a model of modern regenerative farming. They are planting hundreds of trees, re-introducing livestock and working with Dryland Agroecology Research and High Plains Permaculture to restore the soil.
The -51 HERS rated home is not just energy-efficient - it’s a model of “Regenerative design”. The deep green house design included multiple challenges – foremost was how to create a Passive Solar design that also took full advantage of the massive views to the West. We solved it with an L shaped building that optimized passive and active solar strategies on the south face, then actively protected the western facade with a giant covered porch and tuned glazing. The home’s leading-edge energy package includes a Ground source heat pump, a large roof-mounted solar PV array, battery back-up, EV chargers, and Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV), Energy Star Appliances and windows, a robust foam insulation shell and LED lighting.
We also endeavored to craft a modern day interpretation of the farmhouse typology, with a low-slung simple gable-roofed form that would feel like it’s always been there. The exterior material palette of limestone, cementitious stucco and heavy timber gives it a rich Colorado Modern Farmhouse feel. The home is full of custom details like walls of vaulted glass to capture the sweeping mountain views, an AI Smart Home control system, a sleeping loft for kids and guests, a hard-working Butler’s Pantry, a gourmet outdoor kitchen, a pool & spa, a cozy office nook for reading, and a lovely built-in bench for morning coffee. Phase 2 of this project will include a Farmworker ADU and a full renovation of the existing historic barn.
Built by Skycastle Construction. Interior Design by Kimball Modern and Rodwin Architecture. Landscaping by EDI. Photography by Dane Cronin Photo

2011 NATIONAL NARI COTY SOUTHEAST REGIONAL AWARD
This family of four living in a 1987 brick colonial had to make dramatic changes now that their 85 years old grandmother was about to move in. They needed a mother-in-law suite complete with bathroom facilities to meet her needs. Because they were remodeling anyway, they decided to overhaul the rest of the home to create the house they have always dreamed about, including a grand two-story entry.
Starting in the basement, the homeowner added a home theatre room, added storage and a larger bathroom. Hard wood floors and a new stairway were also added.
The main level boasts the new two-story entry foyer. To its left is the mother-in-law suite with a large front bay window and its own walk-in closet and private bath. The bath is furnished with a walk-in jetted tub and aging-in-place accessories. Other first floor highlights include a music room and gourmet kitchen.
Kitchen amenities the client always wanted were added, including a large center island, extended cabinets, double layered crown molding, exotic granite top and wide board mahogany floors throughout entire first floor.
The entire second floor and stairs going up were reconfigured too. The master bedroom is larger with a new tray ceiling and recess lights. The new walk- in closet is now adjacent to the master bath instead of being across the room. The master bathroom was totally gutted and re-positioned. It includes an enlarged shower with bench and frameless shower door, toilet hidden behind a closet and new whirlpool surround with beautiful travertine tile and long double vanity space.
This new renovation is truly a testament to the possibilities of aging-in-place remodeling strategies. Three generations are now living comfortably in this home.

Maceo May is the first residenital and 100% affordable housing development on Treasure Island in San Fransciso Bay. The buiding is a six-story, all-electric modular construction affordable housing project with 104 homes for formerly homeless veterans and their families. The apartment building offers 1 on-site manager’s unit and a mix of 24 studio, 47 one-bedroom and 34 two-bedroom units.
Net zero capable, Maceo May features custom Series 6000 windows from All Weather Architectural Aluminum to maximize energy efficiency. Passive design strategies and superior ventilation also limit energy use, create good air quality, and support the thermal comfort of residents. The operable All Weather Series 6000 windows are oriented to take advantage of San Francisco Bay breezes.
Amenities include residential services, property management offices, a community room, shared laundry room, parking, bicycle storage, common outdoor areas, a forested healing garden, a playground, and a roof deck.
Pursuing Fitwell certification, Maceo May emphasizes social cohesion and wellness with active design principles within the building to connect residents to each other. On track to earn a GreenPoint Gold certification, the project prioritizes resilience and sustainability by utilizing durable materials designed to withstand natural disasters and the effects of climate change.

Photography
Robin Hill & Chance Stillman
The renovation of this contemporary residence and garden is deeply inspired by its subtropical context, utilizing horizontal lines to ground the home and connect its occupants to nature. When considering how to make the most impactful intervention, the design team focused mainly on horizontal roof planes, subtropical landscaping and an abundance of clerestory windows that would all contribute to the home’s integration with its site. In contrast to the tropes of a Palm Beach traditional vernacular, this home seeks to re-establish itself within nature as a place for a young family.
Architectural strategies included dematerializing the surrounding walls and expanding the roof eaves to connect the interior spaces with the surrounding gardens of the home.
The site plan is organized around four main pavilions: A bedroom pavilion to the south, a cabana pavilion to the west, a garage pavilion to the north, and a central living pavilion. Each of the three pavilions engage with the central living space while still allowing nature to flow between them. The pavilions are organized around the pool deck, equipped with zero-edge detailing and layered subtropical landscaping. In this way the swimming pool doubles as a recreational component to the program but also as a mirror to expand views and reflect the surrounding landscape. A glass bridge serves as the garden threshold between the garage and the home.
The renovated home and garden departs from its former Bahamian style and stands out within the community as a symbol for the future of architecture and landscape architecture within this quiet, ocean-front community. A residence derived from, and in response to, its user and environmental context; thus, re-establishing it with place.
Scale
1 ACRE
Scope
HARDSCAPE, SWIMMING POOL + PLANTING DESIGN
Year
2022
Architecture
KODA
Landscape Architecture
LandFluent
General Contractor
PB Built
Landscape Contractor
Rood Landscape

Framed by mature trees and nestled within Sarasota’s historic McClellan Park, Sunset Place is a home shaped by a deep understanding of, and sensibility for, its setting—reflecting the charm of the neighborhood, the rhythm of downtown living, and the client’s vision of entertaining, connection, and family life. Every decision—from site strategy to spatial flow—was made with intention: to support a lifestyle centered on warmth, community, and a strong sense of place.
At its core, the project is a masterclass in leveraging zoning and code to unlock the full potential of a complex site. Though landlocked, the home lives like waterfront—offering openness, privacy, and expansive sunset views. Placing the pool in the front yard, within the 25-foot setback, redefines the entry experience. It captures the western light and sets a relaxed, resort-like tone from the very first step inside the gate. Paired with a rear-loaded garage, accessed discreetly via the side setback, the layout transforms the site’s limitations into its greatest assets. Architecture and landscape take center stage, while the full buildable envelope is maximized without compromise.
A natural rise of eight feet from front to back—rare in Sarasota—was embraced as an opportunity. Site walls function as both retaining structures and architectural elements, elevating the pool terrace and entry by over four feet to align with the main interior floor level. The result is a fluid connection between indoors and out: kitchen, dining, and living spaces unfold onto the terrace, blurring boundaries and enhancing everyday rituals as well as social gatherings.
Architecturally, the home is coastal contemporary: open yet composed, airy yet grounded. Clarity in the massing tells a story of the inhabitants from the first glance, while the interior planning offers spatial generosity and ease. The interiors echo this sensibility with a palette that is soft, natural, and tactile—serene without being neutral. The landscape design provides a lush tropical frame, softening edges and reinforcing privacy through layered plantings rather than enclosure.
Ultimately, Sunset Place is not defined by any single gesture, but by the way the home reflects its owners. Their gracious, family-centered nature informed every layer of design—resulting in a space that feels deeply personal, tailored for connection and ease, and perfectly suited for gathering, unwinding, and watching the sun slip behind the trees from the comfort of home.

Our homeowners moved from The Windy City all the way to the land of the pines with dreams of a perfect home for their family. They found Wake Remodeling and together we made their dream a reality. We developed a strategy to utilize as much of their current resources as possible, while adding new features and design throughout the home. We completed a kitchen refacing with appliances, new paint, lighting, and gorgeous customer cabinetry.
The master bathroom is a must see! We completely redesigned the bathroom with the homeowners' stellar taste in mind and created a haven for them to relax and rejuvenate. From the custom closets to the body spray shower system, the master bathroom makes a statement of elegance.

Pantry and Dog Care center off rustic elegant kitchen through hidden cabinet doors. Subzero fridge and Freeze supports main kitchen. 8ft Pella Life Style door leads to the dog yard or the dog can take the dog door located next to the dog shower complete with a dog brush water wand. Dog water bowl filler is convenient.
The rustic/elegant kitchen (right) custom cabinets are white oak and charcoal black with a large island and an island banquette. To the left of a coffee bar, flanked by 2 sub zero built in units is a hidden cabinet door that leads to a large pantry with a dog bath, dog pot filler, and a doggie door to the outside. The traditional curved stove vent hood is accented by white oak. Two large, crystal chandeliers hang of the island. Adjacent to the kitchen is a cozy seating area in front of a large gas log set fireplace flanked by black mullion Pella life style windows.
This new 7,200 SF Custom Designed (Rustic/Elegant Farmhouse Ranch) Home was built on part of the foundation of the previous home which was a split level. Our architectural strategy required a continuous first floor (10ft) and the home remained aligned with the existing circle driveway. The rustic metal roof front entrance porch (gas lanterns) leads into a massive 2 story center hall (home of a large, centered gathering table) to a large centered outdoor back yard courtyard (kitchen to the right and sports bar to the left) which centers on the new swimming pool and wide outdoor stairs of the retaining wall required for the extensive stormwater management system. That establishes the center of the home stretching over 100 ft from the front step to the back yard stairs flanked by 2 fire features highlighting the pool. The locations of other rooms listed below are to the right and left of this centered home line. Kitchen, kitchen fireplace, pantry, and guest suite are to the right. Entrance to the finished basement theater room are to the right along with a bar to support events in the center hall. To the left of the center 2 story hall are the exercise room with sauna (with glass garage type door to the front porch), sport bar with theater and see through fireplace, game room, mudroom, laundry, 4 car conditioned garage, and pool changing rooms. From the centered 2 story hall to the right is the glass stairwell and curved stairs made of white oak and wrought iron. These beautiful stairs lead to the library balcony overlooking the massive center hall and large gathering dining table. From the right of the balcony are the primary suite with a private 2nd floor porch and a bedroom suite. From the left of the balcony are 2 more suites with a laundry room, kitchenette, and a large EZ Breeze, closed in porch that overlooks the pool and provides coverage over the pool patio next to the see through fireplace in the sports bar theater room.
The exterior is James Hardie fibercement and limestone veneer. Fascia and frieze boards are capped with heavy roof metal materials. The front porch roof is standing metal seam and columns and ceiling are rustic, reclaimed wood.

Keyes Road is a two-storey, semi-detached red brick house dating to around 1890-1910. The focus of our work was on the ground floor where we were asked to improve the layout and use of the main living areas of the house, for an active family of four. Important to the design was to maximise the quality and amount of light as well as connection to the garden and flow to the rest of the house.
Our proposal introduces three single storey extensions, comprising a central, large space that extends the main outrigger of the house. To each side are smaller volumes, affording a full width kitchen. While defining a series of discrete volumes, it was important for us to ensure that the kitchen, living, family and dining rooms that are interconnecting and continuous. The result is a big space punctuated by a series of differently sized arches, defining spaces to ensure their intimacy.
It was important for our client to have a sense of warmth and comfort - perhaps not dissimilar to the qualities of a hotel lobby. The colour scheme of the rooms are warm white painted plaster, natural wood flooring with black, bronze and brass accents. Indirect and carefully placed light fittings pulls together the atmosphere of the rooms - particularly in the evenings.
Externally, we felt it important to differentiate the extensions from the main house by using a dark, charcoal grey brick. This sets up a contrasting yet complimentary relationship to the rich red coloured brick house. The facets of the brick play with light and depth as do the graduated brick arches.
During the design process, we grappled with floor levels, the direction of sunlight, and care to not encroach on the neighbouring properties. As the house is in a conservation area, we worked closely with our trusted planning advisor. Throughout, we pursued a sensitive design strategy, using pitched roofs, matching materials and careful detailing. Internally, many of the original details are intact. This has enabled us to create an eclectic ensemble of elements, colours and materials varying in age and period.

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present
An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today.
A Remodel That Balances Past and Present
What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form.
Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility
Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner.
A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it.
Navigating Challenges With Precision
The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved.
Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly.
Details That Respect the Eichler DNA
The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness.
At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence.
The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving.
Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process.
The Value of Evolving Scope
As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun.
The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA.
Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa.
Contractor: Golden Cove Construction
Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio
Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2024
Location: Sunnyvale, CA

A heightened experience to study and implement light strategies that will be put onto this most exclusive property highlighting Japanese Maple trees over a hundred years old. Such intensive care and love for the property with areas of Zen and meditation. The light intent complements each area in mood and harmony,
It was interesting to watch tree specialists that were retained to prune these majestic beauties into Bonsai formations.
The attention of detail over the past forty years to manicure these grounds elevated my acumen to do a superb job illuminating each and every focal plant on the property, the areas with specific moods in mind, and finalize with a creative all inclusive scene.

The simple material palette of concrete floors, stucco exterior, Rhinezink panels and walnut cabinets was another strategy to keep the architecture focused on the site and place.

The concept 'White on White' is a desire to play with the idea of cloaking stimuli in white, against white canvases of ceilings, walls and floors. The strategy allowed for a cool purity of white tones that managed to still breathe warmth into the living space. - www.0932.am
Type . Residential
Location . Singapore
Floor Area . 1,250 SQ FT Y
ear of Completion . 2012
Photo Credit . David Chan & Dennis Lim Text Credit . Pamela Lim
Interior . 0932 Design Consultants www.0932.am

Losing large specimen trees is never desirable. But when the unimaginable happens, we are presented with an opportunity to rethink and refresh, even in traditional residential settings.
We replaced the lawn area beneath the remaining London plane with a fine fescue seed mix. Our design strategy was to hold space and create immediate impact while reducing maintenance needs as the landscape matured. Into this base, we planted evergreen basal foliage, long bloomers and early spring/late fall color to create an immersive all-season groundcover that will slowly intermingle. Annually, this low mow is cut no lower than 4” (thereby safeguarding habitat) while the tidily trimmed perimeter utilizes remnant turf grass as visible cues to care.
Dissecting the rectilinear green space, permeable hardscaping offers a gently curved path towards the front entryway; an invitation to pause and observe the landscape’s diverse textures and activity up close. Within which, a legacy planting of new specimen trees.
Traditional shrub heavy foundation plantings are often static and rigid; this perennial rich redesign is structured yet airy to retain design cohesion with the naturalistic stylized meadow and offer vibrant textural all-season interest.
This project blends different landscape styles to create a biodiverse habitat that is ecologically beneficial, beautiful and resilient. In high summer, a doe finds refuge for her fawn while the family’s children delight in the buzzing activity of smaller inhabitants, native bees and assorted pollinators, that now call this habitat home.

Reimagining an Urban Classic
Perched high above San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood, this meticulously reimagined residence represents a thoughtful transformation of a classic urban home into a contemporary, light-filled sanctuary. The project involved a comprehensive renovation paired with both vertical and horizontal expansion, dramatically increasing the home’s footprint while enhancing its relationship to sweeping views of the Bay, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the surrounding hillside neighborhoods.
The design strategy focused on opening the home to light, air, and vistas—elements often constrained in the dense urban fabric of San Francisco. By extending the structure upward and outward, the architects created a dynamic four-level residence that unfolds gradually, culminating in expansive living spaces and rooftop terraces oriented toward panoramic city and water views.
Architecture that Frames the View
At the heart of the design is a careful orchestration of sightlines and natural light. Large black-framed windows punctuate the façade and interior spaces, deliberately positioned to capture iconic San Francisco vistas while flooding the home with daylight. The architecture prioritizes openness, allowing rooms to flow seamlessly while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape.
A dramatic skylight above the central stairwell anchors the vertical circulation of the home. This architectural gesture not only brings daylight deep into the interior but also reinforces the sense of spatial continuity between floors.
Warm Modern Interiors
Inside, the home balances architectural clarity with warm materiality. Wide-plank oak floors run throughout the residence, creating visual cohesion and grounding the interiors with natural warmth. Custom walnut millwork—integrated shelving, cabinetry, and wall panels—introduces depth and texture while complementing the clean lines of the architecture.
The interiors are intentionally restrained yet richly layered. Contemporary furnishings, sculptural lighting, and curated artwork add personality while maintaining the calm, sophisticated palette that defines the home.
The Social Heart of the Home
The main living level serves as the social centerpiece of the residence. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge space unfold toward the view, creating an environment that feels both expansive and intimate.
A sculptural marble island anchors the kitchen, functioning as both workspace and gathering hub. Surrounded by walnut cabinetry and professional-grade appliances, the kitchen merges elegance with functionality. Above, a cascading chandelier introduces a sense of vertical movement, reflecting the home’s emphasis on light and architectural rhythm.
Living areas are arranged to encourage conversation and connection. Generous seating, layered rugs, and thoughtful lighting define distinct zones within the open plan while maintaining uninterrupted sightlines toward the cityscape beyond.
Private Retreats Above the City
Upper levels of the home are dedicated to quieter, more intimate spaces. The primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, where expansive windows frame treetop views and invite natural light throughout the day.
The accompanying bathroom continues the home’s refined material palette. Marble surfaces, warm wood cabinetry, and brushed brass fixtures create a spa-like environment that balances luxury with tranquility.
Additional bedrooms and flexible living spaces offer comfort for family and guests, each designed with the same attention to light, proportion, and material richness.
Spaces for Entertaining
Lower levels provide additional areas for gathering and entertaining. A lounge and bar area offer a relaxed setting for hosting, while custom wine storage adds a sophisticated touch for collectors and enthusiasts.
These spaces transition easily to outdoor areas, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
A Rooftop Above the Neighborhood
The transformation extends beyond the interior to include thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. A landscaped rear yard introduces greenery and privacy at ground level, offering a serene urban escape.
Above it all, the rooftop terrace becomes the crown jewel of the residence. Elevated above the neighborhood, it provides sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Palace of Fine Arts. Comfortable seating areas, lush planters, and open sky create an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining, sunset gatherings, or quiet moments overlooking the city.
A Contemporary Urban Sanctuary
The completed residence demonstrates the power of thoughtful renovation and expansion within a historic urban neighborhood. By combining contemporary architecture, warm materiality, and an intentional relationship to the surrounding landscape, the project transforms a traditional San Francisco home into a modern sanctuary above the city.

When your apartment boasts spectacular river and city views, you want this vista to be the star attraction. The best strategy for achieving this is employing a quiet, serene and monochromatic theme. Here it’s ¾” rift cut white oak with a natural finish throughout. Flat panel doors with beveled integral finger recesses reinforce the clean concept. White oak flooring adds to the calm environment.
One of the home’s studies is adjacent to the dining room, separated only by sliding smoked glass doors. The study can be closed off while entertaining, but the scenery is still within view. Bookcases lining opposite walls feature drawer storage on the bottom and 2” wide floor-to-ceiling stiles dividing the sections and contributing a prominent vertical element. 2” thick wood countertops match the 2” shelves that incorporate routed grooves in their undersides housing LED strips to illuminate the contents. On one wall is a suspended desktop that aligns with the countertops and provides a convenient computer station.
Furnishings wisely complement the monochromatic motif with upholstery, throw pillows, drapery and area rugs in shades of cream and beige. But the wooden legs, dining table and accent pieces deliver touches of contrast with their dark stained walnut finishes.
This project was done in collaboration with Sarah Witkin, AIA of Bilotta Architecture, and Michelle Pereira of Innato Interiors LLC. Photography by Stefan Radtke.
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