Saturday, May 30, 1:30 to 3:00pm | Santa Monica Hightree by Jay Griffith of Jay Griffith Design This half-acre site is nestled into the Rustic Canyon neighborhood, and is the second collaboration between the landscape designer and client. Architect Steven Ehrlich designed the striking Modernist home fifteen years ago. It is set on the canyon floor amidst native California sycamores, the only holdover from the previous design. The garden is naturalistic in spirit, but carefully calibrated to include species that thrive in the canyon’s specific microclimate, primarily determined by soil conditions and limited light quality. A dramatic rectilinear elevated pool, based on the house’s strong geometry, offsets the sycamore’s angularity and curvilinear nature. The pool’s design is practical, it’s five-foot tall walls address safety concerns associated with having small children; but It’s also very sculptural, a seamless, buff-colored plaster-coated concrete monolith. The watery surface suggests one of the house’s giant windows. Vast sweeps of understory plantings offer subtle contrasts both textural and though tonal variations of green. Photos by Jorge Rafael

We designed The Jones Residence to blend modern style with practical living. This 3,300 sq. ft. custom home sits on a corner lot in Bronte, Oakville, making it a focal point in the neighborhood. Our goal was to create a house that feels open, bright, and welcoming while using high-quality materials built to last. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light and create a strong connection to the outdoors. The exterior features a mix of stucco, wood paneling, and stone, giving the home a warm yet contemporary look. Clean lines and a balance of vertical and horizontal elements help the house stand out while still fitting naturally into its surroundings. Inside, the open-concept layout allows for easy movement between spaces, making it ideal for both family life and entertaining. Every detail, from the carefully chosen materials to the overall structure, was designed with durability, comfort, and efficiency in mind. Great design should be both beautiful and functional. The Jones Residence reflects our commitment to craftsmanship, smart design, and creating homes that enhance the way people live.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

This Roswell residence was a full-service project, from site planning through architecture, landscape, and finishing details. The design was guided by the homeowner’s strong vision for historically accurate interiors and timeless character, which required careful attention to every element, from custom flooring to specialty finishes and architectural detailing. Collaboration was at the heart of this project. Working closely with the clients allowed us to tailor the home to their lifestyle while achieving the authenticity they were seeking. Special design touches and unique features were integrated throughout, creating a residence that feels both personal and enduring. While the corner lot and neighborhood guidelines required thoughtful planning and coordination with the city, these considerations became a backdrop to the overall design process. The result is a home that harmonizes with its setting, while standing out for its authenticity, craftsmanship, and charm.

Aerial exterior views of a luxury modern farmhouse custom home featuring green board and batten siding, clapboard accents, crisp white trim, black-framed windows, a gray shingle roof, and a covered front porch. The home sits on a landscaped corner lot with mature trees, a concrete driveway, attached garage, and strong curb appeal from every angle.

Mid-century meets modern – this project demonstrates the potential of a heritage renovation that builds upon the past. The major renovations and extension encourage a strong relationship between the landscape, as part of daily life, and cater to a large family passionate about their neighbourhood and entertaining.

The materials used for the exterior of the house (fiber cement, cedar, standing seam metal roofing, concrete, and low rock and landscaping) reflect the simple, rural environment and strong desire on the client's part to minimize maintenance and to fit into their neighborhood.

The project’s goal is to introduce more affordable contemporary homes for Triangle Area housing. This 1,800 SF modern ranch-style residence takes its shape from the archetypal gable form and helps to integrate itself into the neighborhood. Although the house presents a modern intervention, the project’s scale and proportional parameters integrate into its context. Natural light and ventilation are passive goals for the project. A strong indoor-outdoor connection was sought by establishing views toward the wooded landscape and having a deck structure weave into the public area. North Carolina’s natural textures are represented in the simple black and tan palette of the facade.

New kitchen for this Eichler owner in the Fairhaven neighborhood of San Jose CA. The doors, drawer fronts, and panels are Zenit Supermatt Blanco. We used Blum soft-close hinges and drawer slides throughout the kitchen. Cabinet boxes are made with 19mm pre-finished maple plywood with matching Zenit Supermatt Blanco edge tape.

Mid-century meets modern – this project demonstrates the potential of a heritage renovation that builds upon the past. The major renovations and extension encourage a strong relationship between the landscape, as part of daily life, and cater to a large family passionate about their neighbourhood and entertaining.

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots. The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family. Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan. The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views. Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life. Outcomes and Lasting Impact The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners. Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc. Contractor: Golden Snail Builders Photography: Mariko Reed Year Completed:2022

The intrigue of the home’s powerful facade lies in the locally sourced puddingstone archway inviting you in. The custom designed bronze door with leaded sidelights opens into the foyer from underneath the covered walkway to the right, in essence hidden from the street. The wide-open central expanse allows one a sneak preview of the stone patio and back yard beyond, highlighting the 120-foot-tall Beech tree that has been thriving on the site for over two hundred years. The challenge of designing this 6,300 square foot home and pool house was the narrow but deep one-acre lot. John Meyer’s master planning of a strong front elevation hides the “sideways configuration” of the floorplan. To the left of the archway is a 3-car garage below an entertainment room, with a master bedroom suite on the top floor bridging the main house behind the central eyebrow over the archway. The sense of having been on the site for decades was the intent of the design abundant in the use of stone and masonry. The carved stonework shapes the main and secondary archways as full ovals. Slate detailing is set between the sunburst oval window, balancing interest with the keystones framing the five windows across the bridge. Rough cut boulders give weight to the structure’s base, while straight runs of stone border the shingles under the roof’s eaves and shaped stones guide corner edges downward along the retaining walls. The granite steps and bluestone patio lead one back to the lighted base of the Beech tree, terrace and on-axis pool area beyond. The roof is double thick slate, and the circular drive is crushed stone with granite edging. Like the longevity of the Beech tree, this unique design will stand proudly in its neighborhood for years to come.

This particular home located in Cave Springs, Arkansas was an in house design + build. We were tasked with the challenge of figuring out a way to unify our clients contemporary taste, the neighborhood covenants, and the dramatic grade of the lot. When designing, we always feel it’s important to take into account the surrounding natural landscape. We want our homes and nature to complement each other and to lean on each other to enhance the living environment of its inhabitants. We felt strongly that we needed to use the slope of the lot in our design, which led us to create multiple levels to the home. Too often the garage door is an afterthought and it ends up being a major component of the street view of a home. Due to the extreme grade change over the lot we were able to tuck the garage under the main living area. This concealed the garage door from the street view. The entry is situated between two small level changes. The living space is situated 24” above the entry. This creates a pulling effect that takes you up to an elevation amongst the trees. With windows on all sides, nature calls you out to sit on the covered porch situated in the trees. The kitchen and the dining area sit 24” below the entry level, creating a tucked-in intimate space. The private master suite is located at the top of the floating metal stairs on its own floor. With a workout room, his and hers closets, and a natural lit large master bathroom the space gives the home owners a nice retreat from the rest of the house.

New kitchen for our client's Eichler in the Fairhaven neighborhood. Grain matched walnut and matte white doors create a beautiful combination.
Example of a trendy linoleum floor kitchen design in San Francisco with an integrated sink

The intrigue of the home’s powerful facade lies in the locally sourced puddingstone archway inviting you in. The custom designed bronze door with leaded sidelights opens into the foyer from underneath the covered walkway to the right, in essence hidden from the street. The wide-open central expanse allows one a sneak preview of the stone patio and back yard beyond, highlighting the 120-foot-tall Beech tree that has been thriving on the site for over two hundred years. The challenge of designing this 6,300 square foot home and pool house was the narrow but deep one-acre lot. John Meyer’s master planning of a strong front elevation hides the “sideways configuration” of the floorplan. To the left of the archway is a 3-car garage below an entertainment room, with a master bedroom suite on the top floor bridging the main house behind the central eyebrow over the archway. The sense of having been on the site for decades was the intent of the design abundant in the use of stone and masonry. The carved stonework shapes the main and secondary archways as full ovals. Slate detailing is set between the sunburst oval window, balancing interest with the keystones framing the five windows across the bridge. Rough cut boulders give weight to the structure’s base, while straight runs of stone border the shingles under the roof’s eaves and shaped stones guide corner edges downward along the retaining walls. The granite steps and bluestone patio lead one back to the lighted base of the Beech tree, terrace and on-axis pool area beyond. The roof is double thick slate, and the circular drive is crushed stone with granite edging. Like the longevity of the Beech tree, this unique design will stand proudly in its neighborhood for years to come.

New kitchen for our client's Eichler in the Fairhaven neighborhood. Grain matched walnut and matte white doors create a beautiful combination.
Example of a trendy linoleum floor kitchen design in San Francisco with an integrated sink

New kitchen for our client's Eichler in the Fairhaven neighborhood. Grain matched walnut and matte white doors create a beautiful combination.
Kitchen - contemporary linoleum floor kitchen idea in San Francisco with an integrated sink

Building a Shadowbox Wood Privacy Fence in Avon Lake, Ohio | Step-by-Step Installation | Wiler Fence CompanyWatch us build a classic shadowbox style wood privacy fence from start to finish in beautiful Avon Lake, Ohio (Lorain County).This 6-foot tall privacy fence provides excellent screening while allowing gentle airflow, making it a perfect choice for Northeast Ohio backyards. In this time-lapse and step-by-step video, you’ll see the entire professional installation process: Phase 1: Installing the 4x4 Posts We begin by carefully laying out the fence line, digging precise post holes, and setting heavy-duty 4x4 pressure-treated posts in concrete. Each post is plumbed and braced to ensure a rock-solid foundation that will stand up to Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles for years to come. Phase 2: Installing the 2x4 Framing Once the posts are set and cured, we attach the top and bottom 2x4 rails, followed by the middle rail. This strong framing system creates the backbone of the fence and ensures the structure stays straight and sturdy. Phase 3: Installing the Shadowbox Pickets The final step is attaching the privacy pickets in the classic shadowbox pattern — alternating boards on the front and back sides of the rails. This design gives you near-complete privacy from both sides while still allowing air circulation to reduce wind load and prevent warping.The result is a beautiful, durable wood privacy fence that blends naturally with the neighborhood and gives the homeowners the private backyard they’ve been wanting.Project Location: Avon Lake, Ohio – Lorain County Fence Style: 6ft Shadowbox Wood Privacy Fence Materials: Pressure-treated pine with protective stainAt Wiler Fence Company, we take pride in every detail — from proper post depth and concrete setting to clean, professional picket installation.Ready for your own wood privacy fence in Avon Lake, Lorain County, or anywhere in Northeast Ohio? Call us for a free estimate: (216) 714-3337 wiler.org

This bright, open-concept layout creates a seamless connection between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, allowing natural light to flow throughout the main living space. Large windows bring in abundant daylight and enhance the sense of openness while providing clear sightlines across the entire gathering area. The kitchen is positioned to overlook both the dining and living rooms, making it ideal for everyday living and entertaining. This layout supports easy interaction, strong visual connection, and a natural flow—designed for how families actually live. The result is a space that feels open, welcoming, and functional, with light-filled rooms and an intuitive layout that maximizes both comfort and usability.