The shape and size of the access structure on the roof was dictated by both the historic rules listed above and structural/code issues. The shape of structure was also dictated by the stairs below. The new stairs had to be angled over the stairs from the first to the second floor such that the lower set of stairs provided head clearance. That set the L-shape and angles of the roof access structure. We used a 3D modeling program called Revit to review four critical height locations. This assured us the design provided the necessary stair clearance without making structure on roof visible from the street. The clients wanted a contemporary look for the stairs, and selected stainless steel cable rail. This material also allows natural light to pass through. We also rebuilt the stairs from the first floor to the second floor, so all the stairs have a consistent look. HDBros

Nestled in the lush landscape, a modern reinterpretation of a once-fallen barn now features a charming guest cottage with stylish details and contemporary amenities. Situated along a narrow lot in Germantown, New York, the cottage completes a cluster of existing buildings, forming an intimate courtyard on one side. Steel effect folding patio doors fully open the living areas to the expansive fields and the Catskill Mountains beyond. The homeowners, a young family with parents living abroad, envisioned a cozy yet modern ADU for extended stays. Designed by Lauren Cawse, AIA, architect and partner at The Art of Building, the year-round retreat draws inspiration from traditional local barns while embracing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Captivating Guest Cottage Design Enhances the Senses with Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors The modern ADU design started with the site itself. Positioned between residential and commercial neighbors, the elongated property required a careful balance of privacy and openness. Architect Lauren Cawse approached the layout by redefining the existing house and garage as the east and west sides of an outdoor room, with the new cottage forming its southern boundary. This arrangement created a clear courtyard near the main residence while directing the 800-square-foot guest house toward the open meadow and the distant Catskill Mountains. “The unique character of the site and its history inspired the architectural direction,” says Cawse. “The intent was to create a secondary structure in the compound in clear contrast to the modern farmhouse style of the house and garage.” A Barn-Inspired Exterior Adds Visual Flair The exterior envelope evokes a traditional barn with a simple gable shape, weathered wood siding, cedar shingles, and a foundation veneer made of local fieldstone. A large sliding barn door adds a complementary feature to the courtyard-facing side, creating a dynamic opening that maintains uninterrupted views through the cottage to the meadow beyond. Steel effect folding patio doors surrounding the structure add a modern touch of transparency, and simulated divided lites allow the contemporary glass wall systems to harmonize with the traditional elements of the modern ADU design. “The goal was to fully open the living areas to the outdoors, framing views to the meadows and mountains,” says Cawse. “The positioning of the NanaWall systems frames the views and, when open, dissolves the boundary between inside and out.” Interior Design That Mirrors Nature’s Tranquility Inside, the design program features a simple layout with one bedroom, a full bath, a kitchenette, and a living area with a wood-burning stove. The interior, a collaboration between The Art of Building and the homeowners, is defined by an understated palette and tactile materials that reflect the natural setting. Color is introduced through the framed glass views on all sides of the structure. Reclaimed timber collar ties span the ceiling overhead, while stone surfaces and naturally patinated metal accents add quiet texture throughout. Custom hand-painted Delft tiles along the kitchen backsplash add personal detail, and terra cotta flooring in the bathroom brings warmth and old-world charm. Soaring ceilings and abundant daylight create a peaceful play of light and shadow, shifting subtly with the seasons and emphasizing the cottage’s connection to the natural landscape outside. Sleek Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors Elevate the Modern ADU Design Aesthetic Three customized steel effect folding patio doors define the living space, each aligned to respond to a different edge of the site. The largest, spanning nearly 20 feet wide and just under eight feet tall, opens directly onto the stone patio, allowing the main gathering area to extend fully into the landscape. Along the side of the living room, a smaller 10-foot-wide system introduces more light and ventilation, nearly creating an open corner condition if not for the structural post that supports the façade and roofline. At the rear, a fourth ten-foot-wide system features a French door swing panel configuration that opens toward the courtyard, strengthening the design connection to the main residence. All steel effect folding patio doors were specified with a low-maintenance, water-rated Performance Sill to safeguard against inclement weather while providing a seamless, barrier-free transition to the outdoor patio. Unique Customizations for Visual Appeal and a Steel Effect Each folding patio door system is configured to open outward, maximizing usable floor space in the compact interior and allowing furniture placement to remain uninterrupted. By stacking outward, the steel effect folding patio doors, specified in a SE Classic Bronze powder coat, ensure every inch of the cottage is optimized. Simulated divided lites create a consistent rhythm across windows and doors, maintaining alignment with the traditional barn-inspired exterior. In the bedroom, a three-panel, 10-foot-wide system mirrors these customizations, matching the steel effect divided-lite pattern and outward-opening configuration, extending the indoor-outdoor connection while preserving visual continuity throughout the ADU. “The divided lites were crucial to the architectural vision, and while budget prohibited a steel and glass system, NanaWall Systems’ thin frames provide the open and airy feeling we hoped to attain,” says Cawse. “Simulated divided lites transition the thoroughly modern element of the glass walls to remain in harmony with the otherwise traditional palette.” Matching Windows and Doors: Create a Cohesive Design Program Alongside the larger openings in the living areas and bedroom, a smaller 3-foot-tall NanaWall tilt turn window was added to the bathroom. This window-sized NanaWall system perfectly matches the divided lite panels and sleek frames of the steel effect folding patio doors, creating a cohesive modern ADU design throughout. The compact opening provides ventilation and natural light, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere along with natural stone flooring. The matching glass lines and sleek profiles of the NanaWall Generation 4 comprehensive product line further unify visual consistency, allowing each system to fit into the architectural style seamlessly. “This project had three bifold glass walls, a pair of double French doors with sidelites, and a single tilt turn window,” says architect Lauren Cawse. “Being able to work with a single manufacturer provided aesthetic cohesiveness and simplified coordination.” Sustainability Where It Matters Most New York weather can vary from hot 85-degree summers to cold 26-degree winters. Creating an efficient living space was a primary goal. To achieve this, the design included Timber HP-insulated walls and floors with a heat pump system for effective heating and cooling. Additionally, the steel effect folding patio doors and windows were specified with double-glazed panels to ensure a tight building envelope. Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Relaxing and Entertaining In-house landscape designer Liz Pulver worked closely with the team to conceive open-air spaces that enhanced the connection between inside and outside. To the south end of the lot, the landscape transitions into an “enhanced meadow,” allowing the cottage to feel embedded within the surrounding fields rather than set apart from them. A circular pool was designed to mimic a natural pond with a modest footprint. Around it, a minimalist fence and sunken stone ha-ha wall offer discreet safety for young children. Limited space due to existing infrastructure and zoning setbacks left only a small footprint for the swimming pool, prompting the designer to propose a circular form that maximized the usable swimming area. “We felt that the perfect way to integrate a pool into the property and to honor the landscape would be to treat the pool as a piece of art itself,” says Pulver. “The result is a beautiful round pool that serves as both a functional retreat and a sculptural moment.” Final Thoughts: A Barn-Inspired Design for Contemporary Living This modern ADU design skillfully combines modern features with the enduring charm of traditional barns. The outcome is a welcoming living space that stands out amid a stunning landscape. Natural materials that mimic the beauty of the outdoors, expansive steel effect folding patio doors that fill the space with fresh air and natural light, and a restrained interior design work together to create an inviting retreat for everyday living, throughout the seasons. “When entering the site, the cottage feels as though it was always there,” says Cawse. “It achieves its two opposing goals by creating a feeling of intimacy and enclosure near the house while also functioning as a threshold to the expansive fields and views beyond.” Explore how NanaWall folding patio doors elevate other ADU spaces in our inspiring project photo gallery! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is Slimline Steel Effect? Steel Effect is a folding patio door design option that replicates the appearance of traditional steel-framed glass doors. It combines the look of steel with the performance benefits of aluminum, including energy efficiency, low maintenance, greater design flexibility, and lower cost. How does a NanaWall Steel Effect aluminum system compare to traditional steel-framed glass doors? NanaWall Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors replicate the narrow frames of traditional steel doors with improved weather and thermal performance and easier operation. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and feature a thermally broken design for better energy efficiency and lower long-term maintenance. What are the benefits of Steel Effect folding glass walls? Steel Effect folding glass walls deliver the narrow sightlines and grid patterns of traditional steel, combined with the performance and low maintenance of aluminum. The slimline steel effect option offers all the benefits of our Generation 4 product line, including the FourFold / SixFold floating panel set option and smooth operation with Gothic arch stainless steel rollers on a stainless steel track. Can Slimline Steel Effect glass walls be customized? Yes, these systems offer a high level of customization to suit different architectural styles, including simulated divided lites specified in various patterns, popular SE colors for a true steel effect look, and a contemporary glass stop option for a refined look. Contact your local NanaWall representative for additional options here. How energy-efficient and weather-resistant are Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors? Steel effect folding systems are engineered for strong thermal and weather performance. Thermally broken frames and high-performance glazing help improve energy efficiency. Each NanaWall system has been independently tested for air, water, structural integrity, and forced entry with excellent results.

Most of our projects are completed in residential areas ranging from rural to suburban, but we occasionally have an opportunity to do work in the heart of a metropolitan space. This project represents one such opportunity. Sunspace Design was tasked with the construction of a gorgeous, private greenhouse in the center of Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, and we’re thrilled to show you the results. The project required the introduction of a brick greenhouse foundation and granite cap. The structure was framed on top of this in black, powder-coated aluminum, and eventually outfitted with large glass panes. An additional ridge crest gives the Victorian structure provides an amazing silhouette. A number of great features warrant mentioning. The project includes motorized, thermostatically controlled ridge vents and a full HVAC split system to ensure top thermal performance. The client’s ease of operation was also addressed via the installation of remote controlled shades. Smoked privacy glass in the rear of the structure offers some solitude, and a mirage window wall with accordion doors at the front of the structure blend beauty and functionality.

A property stranded for five years after a succession of failed contractors left the structure unsafe with unlawful and defective works throughout. Full independent structural assessment and remediation plan All defective works removed and rebuilt to correct specification Structural completion under engineering sign-off and building regulations Full fit-out and CasaVera bespoke interior package installed throughout

- BYRON MIRROR. Ground metal structure in the finishes: bright light gold, bright chrome, bright black chrome, matt satin bronze. Edges and internal decoration are covered in leather P.3 Cat. Suede. 81'' x 50''3/8H. http://ow.ly/3zb6zC - MANFRED CONSOLE. Small table with base formed from ground laser-cut metal with a curved ''Sequence'' decoration. Structure finish: bright light gold, bright chrome, bright black chrome, matt satin bronze. Top finish: bronze or smoky mirror 1/8'' with bevel, frosted bronze or smoky mirror 1/8'' with bevel, painted black crystal 1/8'' with bevel. Marble 3/4'' thick with bevel 3/4'': Silver Wave marble, Port Black marble, Frappuccino marble, Calacatta Gold marble. Upholstered in leathers from the catalogue. 59''W x 15''3/4D x 36''5/8H. http://ow.ly/3zb6AT - GODWIN SIDE TABLE. Small table with glass fiber structure covered in leather and metal top in the finishes: Structure finish: bright light gold, bright chrome, bright black chrome, matt satin bronze. Ø15''3/4 x 22''H. Base: Ø11''. Ø11''7/8 x 27''5/8H. Base: Ø9''7/8. Ø15''3/4 x 33''7/8H. Base: Ø 11''. http://ow.ly/3zb6Dm - CLAIRMONT TABLE. Table with base formed from ground laser-cut metal with a curved ''Sequence'' decoration. Frame covered in sample leather. Structure finish: bright light gold, bright chrome, bright black chrome, matt satin bronze. Top finish: bronze or smoky mirror 1/8'' with bevel, Marble 3/4'' thick with bevel 3/4'': Silver Wave marble, Port Black marble, Frappuccino marble, Calacatta Gold marble. Oval: 43''3/8''1/4W x 43''3/8D x 29''1/8H. Other Withd: 98''3/8. Round: Ø70''7/8 x 29''1/8H. http://ow.ly/3zb6Fg - CLOE CHAIR. Metal frame molded with high-density foam. Fabric cover is not removable. Swivel metal base in the finishes: bright light gold, bright chrome bright black chrome, matt satin bronze. Backrest with or without quilted sequence decoration. 23''1/4W x 17''3/8D x 29''1/2H. Seat height: 18''1/2. http://ow.ly/3zb6Iz

The project site is a three story apartment building with a full basement, which had recently been subject to an apartment fire. Four separate residential units were contained in the structure, including one two bedroom unit and three single bedroom units. A laundry room/basement and a pair of lofts were also housed within the building. The result of the blaze and the subsequent water damage from attempts to extinguish it left the interior of the building primarily gutted. All interior finishes, fixtures, stairways, mechanical and electrical systems were destroyed beyond repair. The exterior of the building was charred in some places, and destroyed completely in others. The project location, the City of San Rafael, determined that due to the extent of the damage to the structure, the resulting project would be considered a “new building”. Our first task was to review the current building code and apply the current regulations to the existing structure (originally built in the early 1900’s) and bring it up to current code. We performed occupant load calculations, a code summary, square footage calculations and egress code analysis for each floor/use. This information was then compiled in order to determine how the project could legally be designed within the current code, all while minimizing modifications to the existing structure. Once all data had been analyzed, the new floor plans were organized and laid out in a manner which retained the heritage of the original building while remaining true to current code. The site was revised to allow for code compliant parking areas while retaining the family friendly outdoor spaces inherent in the original design. The foundation was reinforced, and the building structure as a whole was strengthened to cope with modern seismic loads. Spray foam insulation, low E glazing, skylights, ceiling fans, high efficiency HVAC, etc…were all added to make the building more efficient and environmentally friendly. The use of Class “A” materials, fire separations (both vertical and horizontal) and a commercial sprinkler system were employed in order to avoid any future fires. Reconstruction of the project was recently completed in the summer of 2014. Photos by B. James

A rear elevation of the double height extension, showing the 6m tall sliding doors.
Trendy brown three-story brick townhouse exterior photo in London

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

Inspiration for a timeless family room remodel in Seattle

This Sammamish outdoor living project features a custom multi‑angle deck design paired with a vaulted roof cover built for year‑round use in the Pacific Northwest. The homeowners wanted a space that felt open, architectural, and protected from Sammamish’s frequent rain and shade—while blending seamlessly with the home’s existing structure. We designed and built a dual‑angle vaulted roof with exposed architectural elements, integrated soffits, and clean trim details to create a finished, modern look. The covered structure provides excellent weather protection while allowing natural light to filter in, making the space usable in every season. The deck was finished with TimberTech/Azek Dark Hickory, a premium PVC material ideal for moisture‑heavy environments like Sammamish. This low‑maintenance decking resists rot, mold, and fading, making it a long‑lasting solution for PNW homes surrounded by trees. Additional upgrades included: • Smart lighting integration for evening ambiance • Outdoor heating options for year‑round comfort • Powder‑coated aluminum railing for a modern, open feel • Improved waterproofing and flashing to protect the home’s exterior • Structural enhancements to support the vaulted cover and multi‑angle layout This project showcases how thoughtful design, premium materials, and proper construction practices can transform a shaded Sammamish backyard into a functional, beautiful outdoor living space. Location: Sammamish, WA Services Provided: Covered deck construction, vaulted roof design, composite/PVC decking installation, waterproofing, structural upgrades, outdoor living enhancements Materials: TimberTech/Azek Dark Hickory, glulam beams, aluminum railing, integrated soffits and lighting

The intent of this was project was to create a porch addition to expand the living area of the house during the warm months of the year. The space accommodates an area for cooking, dining and entertaining. The layout and finishes were chosen to flow with the interior of the home, creating a seamless extension of house. The collar ties add a custom detail making this structure custom and unique. The built-in kitchen is located directly outside the back door. A small veneer wall creates a separation from the kitchen to the dining table, while also doubling as a seat or serving area for the chef. The ‘L’ shaped sectional is a cozy sitting area for the family to relax by the new concrete fire table, or to sit in the shade and watch the kids play in the backyard. The structure is cladded in a PVC material which achieves the clean and simple look that the client was hoping for. The cladding material is also very low maintenance and will continue to look great for many years to come. Although the client was really drawn to modern design, they wanted to make sure that the porch wouldn’t look out of place with the house. To achieve a look that met their aesthetic requirements, the structure was kept relatively traditional, but a modern flare was achieved with the addition of simple plantings, accents, and natural square cut stepping-stones.

This Sammamish outdoor living project features a custom multi‑angle deck design paired with a vaulted roof cover built for year‑round use in the Pacific Northwest. The homeowners wanted a space that felt open, architectural, and protected from Sammamish’s frequent rain and shade—while blending seamlessly with the home’s existing structure. We designed and built a dual‑angle vaulted roof with exposed architectural elements, integrated soffits, and clean trim details to create a finished, modern look. The covered structure provides excellent weather protection while allowing natural light to filter in, making the space usable in every season. The deck was finished with TimberTech/Azek Dark Hickory, a premium PVC material ideal for moisture‑heavy environments like Sammamish. This low‑maintenance decking resists rot, mold, and fading, making it a long‑lasting solution for PNW homes surrounded by trees. Additional upgrades included: • Smart lighting integration for evening ambiance • Outdoor heating options for year‑round comfort • Powder‑coated aluminum railing for a modern, open feel • Improved waterproofing and flashing to protect the home’s exterior • Structural enhancements to support the vaulted cover and multi‑angle layout This project showcases how thoughtful design, premium materials, and proper construction practices can transform a shaded Sammamish backyard into a functional, beautiful outdoor living space. Location: Sammamish, WA Services Provided: Covered deck construction, vaulted roof design, composite/PVC decking installation, waterproofing, structural upgrades, outdoor living enhancements Materials: TimberTech/Azek Dark Hickory, glulam beams, aluminum railing, integrated soffits and lighting

A property stranded for five years after a succession of failed contractors left the structure unsafe with unlawful and defective works throughout. Full independent structural assessment and remediation plan All defective works removed and rebuilt to correct specification Structural completion under engineering sign-off and building regulations Full fit-out and CasaVera bespoke interior package installed throughout

Project Spotlight: Stunning 700 Sq. Ft. Home Addition by BMR Belmax Remodeling At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we recently completed an extensive 700 sq. ft. home addition project that redefined both style and functionality for our clients. This comprehensive project not only expanded the home but also upgraded its overall design and livability. From structural work to interior finishes, we handled every detail with precision and care. Project Overview Structural Upgrades and Expansion: The project began with the removal of an old deck to make way for a new addition seamlessly integrated into the existing structure. To achieve an open-concept design, we removed a section of the kitchen wall and installed a robust metal beam supported by two metal columns. This structural element ensured the second floor and roof were securely supported. New Spaces Added: Kitchen Remodeling: Installed custom kitchen cabinets with stunning white quartz countertops for a clean, modern look. Integrated a large peninsula, creating additional workspace and seating. Added recessed lighting for a bright and functional cooking area, along with new high-end appliances. Bathroom Addition: Designed and built a new bathroom featuring a walk-in shower with glass doors, a double vanity, and elegant recessed lighting. Installed new mirrors, a toilet, and high-quality fixtures to create a luxurious space. Dining Room and Bedroom: Built a spacious new dining room directly connected to the kitchen, ideal for entertaining and family gatherings. Added a cozy new bedroom with modern lighting and finishes for a warm, inviting atmosphere. Laundry Room Remodel: Upgraded the laundry room to maximize efficiency with new plumbing, electrical systems, and updated finishes. Exterior Upgrade: Built a brand-new deck adjacent to the new addition, offering an outdoor space perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Work: Completed all necessary upgrades to ensure the new addition was seamlessly connected to the home’s existing systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Key Features and Design Highlights Open-concept design achieved through structural engineering with a metal beam and column system. High-end kitchen finishes, including quartz countertops, recessed lighting, and a large peninsula. Luxurious bathroom design with modern amenities like a walk-in shower and double vanity. A new deck addition that enhances outdoor living space. Stylish and functional spaces tailored to the homeowners’ needs. The Result The 700 sq. ft. addition has transformed this home into a spacious, modern, and functional retreat. The open-concept kitchen and dining area create a welcoming space for gatherings, while the upgraded bedroom and bathroom offer comfort and style. The new deck perfectly complements the addition, providing a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. Ready to expand and enhance your home? Contact BMR Belmax Remodeling today to turn your vision into reality!

The shape and size of the access structure on the roof was dictated by both the historic rules listed above and structural/code issues. The shape of structure was also dictated by the stairs below. The new stairs had to be angled over the stairs from the first to the second floor such that the lower set of stairs provided head clearance. That set the L-shape and angles of the roof access structure. We used a 3D modeling program called Revit to review four critical height locations. This assured us the design provided the necessary stair clearance without making structure on roof visible from the street. The clients wanted a contemporary look for the stairs, and selected stainless steel cable rail. This material also allows natural light to pass through. We also rebuilt the stairs from the first floor to the second floor, so all the stairs have a consistent look. HDBros

The shape and size of the access structure on the roof was dictated by both the historic rules listed above and structural/code issues. The shape of structure was also dictated by the stairs below. The new stairs had to be angled over the stairs from the first to the second floor such that the lower set of stairs provided head clearance. That set the L-shape and angles of the roof access structure. We used a 3D modeling program called Revit to review four critical height locations. This assured us the design provided the necessary stair clearance without making structure on roof visible from the street. The clients wanted a contemporary look for the stairs, and selected stainless steel cable rail. This material also allows natural light to pass through. We also rebuilt the stairs from the first floor to the second floor, so all the stairs have a consistent look. HDBros

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

Headwaters Park Public Event Space. Highlight The combination of Hebel (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) walls, an exposed structural steel roof system, and bespoke craftsmanship makes for a very interesting building. The individual spaces within the structure are striking in themselves, but we think the integration of form and function in the building as a whole makes it a unique and successful project. Detail This building serves as the main event and meeting space in Headwaters Park, which is just outside Lewisburg WV and is a project of the WV nonprofit Appalachian Headwaters. The main building is an 8500 sq ft single level structure with an expansive exterior flagstone patio. We designed and constructed the building, and also built the hardscape and water feature. Allegheny Design Services from Morgantown WV performed the structural engineering and we worked with Cole Burrell of Charlottesville VA for the landscaping design. The interior of the building contains quite a few interesting features and spaces. The main event space is about 3000 sq ft, and is connected to a commercial kitchen. Custom copper light fixtures were built by Molly Must, a local artist. There are also custom wooden light fixtures in the hallways and conference room, built by local woodworker Ryan Brady. We built wooden sound dampening panels to improve acoustic quality in a few of the large rooms. The building is heated with an in slab hydronic radiant system powered by a geothermal heat pump. In-floor radiant is one of the most comfortable ways to heat a building and when combined with a geothermal heat pump, is highly efficient. The building is also designed for passive solar heat gain in the wintertime, with large south facing windows. We added awnings on the south and west sides of the building to prevent overheating from the sun in the summer. A 90 kW rooftop PV solar system will provide most of the electricity consumed by the building, if not all of it. We’re hoping that the project ends up being net zero or better - we’ll know after a full year of electric bills. It’s a grid tied system, so any excess electricity produced will be sent into the grid. The building is fully electric - HVAC, water heating, and the commercial kitchen are all propane/natural gas free. For more information about Appalachian Headwaters and Headwaters Park, please visit their website at: https://appheadwaters.org

This Sammamish outdoor living project features a custom multi‑angle deck design paired with a vaulted roof cover built for year‑round use in the Pacific Northwest. The homeowners wanted a space that felt open, architectural, and protected from Sammamish’s frequent rain and shade—while blending seamlessly with the home’s existing structure. We designed and built a dual‑angle vaulted roof with exposed architectural elements, integrated soffits, and clean trim details to create a finished, modern look. The covered structure provides excellent weather protection while allowing natural light to filter in, making the space usable in every season. The deck was finished with TimberTech/Azek Dark Hickory, a premium PVC material ideal for moisture‑heavy environments like Sammamish. This low‑maintenance decking resists rot, mold, and fading, making it a long‑lasting solution for PNW homes surrounded by trees. Additional upgrades included: • Smart lighting integration for evening ambiance • Outdoor heating options for year‑round comfort • Powder‑coated aluminum railing for a modern, open feel • Improved waterproofing and flashing to protect the home’s exterior • Structural enhancements to support the vaulted cover and multi‑angle layout This project showcases how thoughtful design, premium materials, and proper construction practices can transform a shaded Sammamish backyard into a functional, beautiful outdoor living space. Location: Sammamish, WA Services Provided: Covered deck construction, vaulted roof design, composite/PVC decking installation, waterproofing, structural upgrades, outdoor living enhancements Materials: TimberTech/Azek Dark Hickory, glulam beams, aluminum railing, integrated soffits and lighting