Search results for "Structured approach" in Home Design Ideas

Glenview Haus Transitional Collection combines the simplicity of contemporary design and the refined elegance of traditional design to create sleek, contemporary wooden front doors. Transitional front doors are characterized by form and fashion, often through taking a minimalist approach to design. Narrow lines, large, uninterrupted glass or glazed openings and precise horizontal and vertical alignments add definition and design to these wooden front doors and complement most architectural styles. Encompassing oversized door systems, flush doors and floating paneled structures, Glenview Haus’s transitional, wooden front doors are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

This light-filled culinary haven masterfully blends grand-scale functionality with an intimate, deeply layered aesthetic. Designed to handle both high-end meal preparation and casual entertaining, the space is structurally anchored by dual islands: a hardworking, slate-blue prep station topped with pristine white marble, and a separate, furniture-style oak trestle table that invites guests to pull up a stool.
The kitchen's true focal point is the dramatic cooking alcove, featuring a massive, custom matte black statement hood framed by a striking blue-and-white geometric tiled backsplash. Rather than sticking to a uniform look, the cabinetry embraces a sophisticated mix-and-match philosophy—combining crisp white perimeters, slate blue islands, and a rich, dark wood paneled refrigerator armoire that feels like a collected antique. Grounded by airy, wide-plank light hardwood floors and crowned by a glossy white shiplap ceiling that bounces natural light throughout, this space effortlessly balances high-end luxury with approachable, coastal-inspired warmth.

Photo by Mike Force.
A first time residential developer approa-ched Kinney & Associates to help him design an addition and remodel to an existing 1100-square-foot residence in East Austin. The program was simple -- he wanted a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath house that could be sold easily or lived in should he decide to keep it for a while. Kinney & Associates endeavored to keep as much of the existing structure as feasible while delivering a very marketable product that would appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. The final product included a Game/Media Room adjacent a courtyard space that can be used for entertaining or for kids. The Master Bedroom atop the Game/Media lends itself to privacy and seclusion so that the owners can use it as a retreat. The final product is a 2400-square-foot residence that appears to be a small bungalow from the street, but lends itself to downtown views in the rear.
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Founded in 1973, Fiam Italia is a global icon of glass culture with four decades of glass innovation and design that produced revolutionary structures and created a new level of utility for glass as a material in residential and commercial interior decor. Fiam Italia designs, develops and produces items of furniture in curved glass, creating them through a combination of craftsmanship and industrial processes, while merging tradition and innovation, through a hand-crafted approach.

This ambitious project replaced a failing creosote railroad tie retaining wall that had collapsed at our client’s hillside home on Vineyard Lake. A project this size can be daunting in scope to address the overgrown, unstable slope. Our team worked together with thoughtful hardscape design, skilled execution and consistent site management, delivering a quality installation in a timely manor.
Landscape Designer, John McBride, crafted a site design that worked with the natural contours of the hillside, incorporating a terraced approach for structural integrity. Project Supervisor, Donnie Jones, expertly choreographed the new segmented wall construction while concurrently removing the upper railroad tie walls to stabilize the hillside.

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

Our clients Bill and Tammy approached us to construct a bonus room above the garage for their exercise equipment with an additional bedroom and bathroom for guests. This project has a few unique challenges including installing a 2 hour fire rated wall so that their home can be considered two separate structures for the Philomath fire marshal (so we don’t need to install a residential sprinkler system). We are also keeping their existing home operational during construction including their furnace and electrical panel which are directly underneath the new addition!

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Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

On the sunlit approach to this modern Chicago residence, the architecture immediately asserts its presence with a crisp, geometric facade clad in luminous white Trespa panels. The clean lines and seamless finish emphasize precision craftsmanship, while the rhythm of the panel joints plays in harmony with the large-scale windows below. Every element of the exterior was designed to balance visual impact with long-term durability—ensuring the home's beauty will endure through Chicago's varied seasons.
Anchoring the front elevation is a generous expanse of sliding glass doors and tall fixed windows, creating a nearly uninterrupted connection between the interior and the expansive deck beyond. The transparency allows natural light to flood the home's main living spaces, while the strategic overhang and orientation ensure comfort in every season. The elevated deck, built in rich wood tones, serves as a natural extension of the living area—perfect for both quiet morning coffee rituals and lively gatherings with friends.
The exterior stair, crafted in matching wood tones, elegantly bridges the upper and lower outdoor spaces, inviting movement between levels with ease. This intentional layering of indoor and outdoor living reflects the home's core philosophy: every square foot should be both beautiful and functional. For a family that values connection—to each other, to nature, and to design—this home offers an environment that supports daily life while inspiring it.
From its modern silhouette to its tactile material palette, this is more than a facade—it's the architectural handshake that welcomes you home.

We were excited when the homeowners of this project approached us to help them with their whole house remodel as this is a historic preservation project. The historical society has approved this remodel. As part of that distinction we had to honor the original look of the home; keeping the façade updated but intact. For example the doors and windows are new but they were made as replicas to the originals. The homeowners were relocating from the Inland Empire to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. One of their requests was additional living space. In order to achieve this we added a second story to the home while ensuring that it was in character with the original structure. The interior of the home is all new. It features all new plumbing, electrical and HVAC. Although the home is a Spanish Revival the homeowners style on the interior of the home is very traditional. The project features a home gym as it is important to the homeowners to stay healthy and fit. The kitchen / great room was designed so that the homewoners could spend time with their daughter and her children. The home features two master bedroom suites. One is upstairs and the other one is down stairs. The homeowners prefer to use the downstairs version as they are not forced to use the stairs. They have left the upstairs master suite as a guest suite.
Enjoy some of the before and after images of this project:
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3549200/old-garage-office-turned-gym-in-los-angeles
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3558821/la-face-lift-for-the-patio
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3569717/la-kitchen-remodel
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3579013/los-angeles-entry-hall
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3592549/exterior-shots-of-a-whole-house-remodel-in-la
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3607481/living-dining-rooms-become-a-library-and-formal-dining-room-in-la
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3628842/bathroom-makeover-in-los-angeles-ca
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3640770/sweet-dreams-la-bedroom-remodels
Exterior: Approved by the historical society as a Spanish Revival, the second story of this home was an addition. All of the windows and doors were replicated to match the original styling of the house. The roof is a combination of Gable and Hip and is made of red clay tile. The arched door and windows are typical of Spanish Revival. The home also features a Juliette Balcony and window.
Library / Living Room: The library offers Pocket Doors and custom bookcases.
Powder Room: This powder room has a black toilet and Herringbone travertine.
Kitchen: This kitchen was designed for someone who likes to cook! It features a Pot Filler, a peninsula and an island, a prep sink in the island, and cookbook storage on the end of the peninsula. The homeowners opted for a mix of stainless and paneled appliances. Although they have a formal dining room they wanted a casual breakfast area to enjoy informal meals with their grandchildren. The kitchen also utilizes a mix of recessed lighting and pendant lights. A wine refrigerator and outlets conveniently located on the island and around the backsplash are the modern updates that were important to the homeowners.
Master bath: The master bath enjoys both a soaking tub and a large shower with body sprayers and hand held. For privacy, the bidet was placed in a water closet next to the shower. There is plenty of counter space in this bathroom which even includes a makeup table.
Staircase: The staircase features a decorative niche
Upstairs master suite: The upstairs master suite features the Juliette balcony
Outside: Wanting to take advantage of southern California living the homeowners requested an outdoor kitchen complete with retractable awning. The fountain and lounging furniture keep it light.
Home gym: This gym comes completed with rubberized floor covering and dedicated bathroom. It also features its own HVAC system and wall mounted TV.

Photo by Mike Force.
A first time residential developer approa-ched Kinney & Associates to help him design an addition and remodel to an existing 1100-square-foot residence in East Austin. The program was simple -- he wanted a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath house that could be sold easily or lived in should he decide to keep it for a while. Kinney & Associates endeavored to keep as much of the existing structure as feasible while delivering a very marketable product that would appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. The final product included a Game/Media Room adjacent a courtyard space that can be used for entertaining or for kids. The Master Bedroom atop the Game/Media lends itself to privacy and seclusion so that the owners can use it as a retreat. The final product is a 2400-square-foot residence that appears to be a small bungalow from the street, but lends itself to downtown views in the rear.

This very large corner site was shrouded in tired and thirsty conventional lawn. Really a bland, uninteresting monoculture—impossible to maintain especially in light of our dwindling resources and our growing understanding about sustainable practices.
We chose to approach this project not with the idea that existing lawn is bad, but with respect for what lawn has historically represented: a socially connective tissue.
Instead of conventional grass requiring endlessly large amounts of water, chemicals and mowing, this lawn conversion shifts to a naturalistic native meadow mix splashed with wildflowers and drought tolerant native shrubs. It was the clients’ desire to be wrapped by a garden attracting native pollinators and beneficial insects. A wildlife photographer, they wanted the opportunity to open windows and doors and feel immediately connected to a coastal native environment.
The handsome new stone walls, stairs and massive boulders became the structural framework containing the loose, coastal sage scrub plant community, holding the landscape together during the dormant months.
As we continue to grow our acceptance of and appreciation for climate appropriate California gardens, and embrace the paradigm shift, let us graciously bid adieu to our home’s unsustainable velvet robe.

We were excited when the homeowners of this project approached us to help them with their whole house remodel as this is a historic preservation project. The historical society has approved this remodel. As part of that distinction we had to honor the original look of the home; keeping the façade updated but intact. For example the doors and windows are new but they were made as replicas to the originals. The homeowners were relocating from the Inland Empire to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. One of their requests was additional living space. In order to achieve this we added a second story to the home while ensuring that it was in character with the original structure. The interior of the home is all new. It features all new plumbing, electrical and HVAC. Although the home is a Spanish Revival the homeowners style on the interior of the home is very traditional. The project features a home gym as it is important to the homeowners to stay healthy and fit. The kitchen / great room was designed so that the homewoners could spend time with their daughter and her children. The home features two master bedroom suites. One is upstairs and the other one is down stairs. The homeowners prefer to use the downstairs version as they are not forced to use the stairs. They have left the upstairs master suite as a guest suite.
Enjoy some of the before and after images of this project:
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3549200/old-garage-office-turned-gym-in-los-angeles
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3558821/la-face-lift-for-the-patio
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3569717/la-kitchen-remodel
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3579013/los-angeles-entry-hall
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3592549/exterior-shots-of-a-whole-house-remodel-in-la
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3607481/living-dining-rooms-become-a-library-and-formal-dining-room-in-la
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3628842/bathroom-makeover-in-los-angeles-ca
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/3640770/sweet-dreams-la-bedroom-remodels
Exterior: Approved by the historical society as a Spanish Revival, the second story of this home was an addition. All of the windows and doors were replicated to match the original styling of the house. The roof is a combination of Gable and Hip and is made of red clay tile. The arched door and windows are typical of Spanish Revival. The home also features a Juliette Balcony and window.
Library / Living Room: The library offers Pocket Doors and custom bookcases.
Powder Room: This powder room has a black toilet and Herringbone travertine.
Kitchen: This kitchen was designed for someone who likes to cook! It features a Pot Filler, a peninsula and an island, a prep sink in the island, and cookbook storage on the end of the peninsula. The homeowners opted for a mix of stainless and paneled appliances. Although they have a formal dining room they wanted a casual breakfast area to enjoy informal meals with their grandchildren. The kitchen also utilizes a mix of recessed lighting and pendant lights. A wine refrigerator and outlets conveniently located on the island and around the backsplash are the modern updates that were important to the homeowners.
Master bath: The master bath enjoys both a soaking tub and a large shower with body sprayers and hand held. For privacy, the bidet was placed in a water closet next to the shower. There is plenty of counter space in this bathroom which even includes a makeup table.
Staircase: The staircase features a decorative niche
Upstairs master suite: The upstairs master suite features the Juliette balcony
Outside: Wanting to take advantage of southern California living the homeowners requested an outdoor kitchen complete with retractable awning. The fountain and lounging furniture keep it light.
Home gym: This gym comes completed with rubberized floor covering and dedicated bathroom. It also features its own HVAC system and wall mounted TV.

These bathroom remodels had a great base and core elements that we wanted to honor. Central to the project were the cherished handmade cabinetry and vintage wood mirrors, which served as anchors for the bathroom's serene and cozy core. By removing and painting over the eccentric wallpaper stripes and embracing a more tranquil green hue, accented by warm wood tones, the bathroom seamlessly welcomed elements of the outdoors within. This subtle yet impactful change brought a sense of harmony and connection to nature, elevating the space to a tranquil retreat. Throughout the renovation, the integrity of the structure and its unique natural elements remained paramount. The slanted ceiling, with its distinctive charm, and the windows flooding the room with natural light, were preserved to maintain the character and authenticity of the space. By preserving these features, the bathroom not only retained its individuality but also celebrated the beauty of its surroundings, creating harmony between the indoors and outdoors that defines the essence of natural design

Infused with elements of serenity and modernity, this living space exudes a sense of tranquility. The room seamlessly integrates natural elements, like the central bonsai tree, with high-tech features for a harmonious living experience. The fluidity of design, from the sweeping ceiling structure to the muted earth tones, sets a tone of understated elegance.

camilleriparismode projects and design team were approached to rethink a previously unused double height room in a wonderful villa. the lower part of the room was planned as a sitting and dining area, the sub level above as a tv den and games room. as the occupants enjoy their time together as a family, as well as their shared love of books, a floor-to-ceiling library was an ideal way of using and linking the large volume. the large library covers one wall of the room spilling into the den area above. it is given a sense of movement by the differing sizes of the verticals and shelves, broken up by randomly placed closed cupboards. the floating marble fireplace at the base of the library unit helps achieve a feeling of lightness despite it being a complex structure, while offering a cosy atmosphere to the family area below. the split-level den is reached via a solid oak staircase, below which is a custom made wine room. the staircase is concealed from the dining area by a high wall, painted in a bold colour on which a collection of paintings is displayed.
photos by: brian grech

Talon Construction’s best sunroom addition remodel in Rockville, MD is a masterpiece of integrated design and craft. With panoramic windows, thoughtful finishes, and a mesmerizing view of pond and forest. The sunroom is a tranquil, light-filled retreat that visually extends the living area into the outdoors and a perfect space to relax in
Concept & Design‑Build Approach
Talon works directly with you from the first meeting through final walkthrough, blending design and construction into a seamless process
Starting with a consultation, they discuss your goals—envisioning a bright, window‑lined sunroom that fully embraces your backyard
Ensure all aspects—from aesthetics to HVAC and structural permits—are covered
Architectural Features & Materials
Expansive full‑height windows on three sides frame uninterrupted views of the backyard
Beautiful clear stained oak hardwood flooring throughout the sunroom
Integrated HVAC-ready infrastructure, ensuring comfort year-round
Backyard Integration
What sets this sunroom apart is the connection to a stunning backyard:
Framed views extend to a fishpond, complete with water plants and filtered circulation installing a peaceful aquatic focal point
In the distance, you’ll find a natural forest backdrop, enhancing the sense of seclusion and serenity
Construction & Build Quality
Talon prides itself on: Clear communication, timely updates, and staying on schedule and budget
Management of permitting, inspections, and subcontractors so progression is smooth
Finishing with quality materials: low‑maintenance trim (e.g., Azek), seasoned craftsmen, and rigorous site cleanup
Living Experience & Value
The sunroom is a tranquil, light-filled retreat that visually extends the living area into the outdoors
It’s ideal for morning coffee with a view of nature, evening reading warmed by the mini-split HVAC unit, or entertaining with the forest view as your backdrop
Feedback from clients show they truly “fall in love with their home all over again”, praising Talon’s ergonomic collaboration and design freedom
Best sunroom addition remodel in Rockville
Every phase—from design to construction—reflects their holistic design‑build expertise. The result: a radiant, timeless extension of your home that delights every season

The front yard landscape architecture at Vanguard Way utilizes a bold, asymmetrical layout to create a striking first impression. Floating concrete steppers are framed by black steel edging and river rock, guiding guests past architectural plantings and custom corten steel features. This high-end approach to outdoor living emphasizes minimalist beauty and structural precision, perfectly complementing the home’s contemporary wood and glass facade while maintaining a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant footprint.

Refined Continuity: Bridging Classical Architecture and Modern Living
This comprehensive remodel of a grand Cow Hollow residence reimagines a historically expressive envelope through a lens of contemporary livability, precision detailing, and material restraint. The design approach carefully balances the home’s classical proportions and ornamental heritage with a refined, modern sensibility—evident in the disciplined palette of warm neutrals, soft plasters, pale oak flooring, and tailored millwork. Circulation has been clarified and subtly expanded to enhance spatial flow, while openings are leveraged to capture light, garden outlooks, and distant water views. Throughout, architectural interventions are executed with a high level of craft, ensuring that new insertions—whether cabinetry, railings, or apertures—read as seamless continuations of the original structure rather than applied elements.
The kitchen serves as the operational and visual anchor of the home, conceived as a sculptural yet highly functional environment. Custom rift-cut cabinetry, softened through a desaturated finish, is paired with honed stone surfaces and integrated brass hardware to create a quiet, tactile richness. A monolithic island establishes a central gathering point, while perimeter work zones are carefully layered with concealed storage, integrated appliances, and open, backlit shelving that elevates everyday objects into curated displays. The adjacent bar and entertaining areas extend this language, reinforcing a cohesive hospitality-driven program. In parallel, the primary bathroom is designed as a serene, spa-like retreat, where bookmatched stone, frameless glass enclosures, and finely detailed metalwork converge. The composition prioritizes symmetry, clarity, and light—balancing generous volumes with intimate moments through integrated lighting, custom vanities, and a restrained material hierarchy.
The library and ancillary living spaces introduce a more intimate scale, anchored by bespoke built-ins that combine closed storage with illuminated display niches, creating depth and rhythm along the walls. Here, material transitions and furniture integration are handled with particular nuance, allowing the architecture to support both quiet retreat and social gathering. A continuous language of custom railings—executed in refined metal profiles—threads through the interior and extends outward, where the exterior gate and garden elements have been reinterpreted to align with the home’s renewed identity. The entry sequence is now defined by a calibrated interplay of solidity and transparency, with sculptural metalwork and landscape integration establishing a sense of arrival that is both secure and elegant. Collectively, the project reflects a holistic transformation—one that elevates performance, livability, and aesthetic clarity while preserving the inherent dignity of the original architecture.

Austin Street Buils
A Custom Urban Residence by Seven Rivers Design + Build
Highlight
The defining feature of the Austin St. Build is the use of natural plaster walls throughout the interior. Plaster brings a quiet richness—subtle texture, visual depth, and a sense of solidity that makes the home feel both timeless and grounded. This material choice reinforces Seven Rivers Design + Build’s focus on craftsmanship and tactile, human-centered design.
Detail
Efficient Two-Story Living
This 1,500-square-foot, two-story custom home is thoughtfully organized for comfort and flow. The main level includes a bedroom and full bathroom, along with an open kitchen and living area and a conveniently placed powder room. A light-filled, open stairwell leads to the second floor, which houses an additional bedroom and bathroom, creating a balanced and flexible layout well suited for urban living.
High-Performance Building Envelope
The exterior walls are constructed using Hebel Block (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete)—a high-performance building system that combines structural strength with excellent insulation. By incorporating air into the concrete matrix, Hebel Block delivers superior thermal performance while remaining lightweight and durable, contributing to the home’s overall energy efficiency.
Energy-Efficient Comfort Systems
Heating and cooling loads are intentionally minimized through envelope performance and system design. The home features in-floor radiant heating as the primary heat source, complemented by mini-split systems for supplemental heating and cooling. The result is a comfortable, efficient living environment with low operational demands.
Durable, Timeless Finishes
Windows: Andersen E-Series (aluminum-clad)
Flooring: Natural slate on the main level
Exterior Cladding: Traditional stucco
Roof: Standing-seam metal
Each material was selected for longevity, performance, and aesthetic restraint—supporting a home that will age gracefully over decades.
The Seven Rivers Design + Build Approach
The Austin St. Build exemplifies Seven Rivers Design + Build’s design/build philosophy: integrating architecture, materials, and systems into a cohesive whole. By pairing traditional finishes with modern building science, this project delivers a refined, efficient custom home that feels both contemporary and enduring.

SLDarch: The shaded Main Entry, tucked deep into the shadows, is approached from a rising stepped garden path, leading up to a gentle, quiet water feature and custom stainless steel, glass and wood pivot entry door...open this and venture in to the Central Foyer space, shrouded by curved concrete & stainless steel structure and orienting the visitor to the central core of this curvaceous home.
From this central orientation point, one begins to perceive the magic and mystery yet to be revealed in the undulating spatial volumes, spiraling out in several directions.
Ahead is the kitchen and breakfast room, to the right are the Children's Bedroom Wing and the 'ocotillo stairs' to Master Bedroom upstairs. Venture left down the gentle ramp that follows along the gurgling water stream and meander past the bar and billiards, or on towards the main living room.
The entire ceiling areas are a brilliant series of overlapping smoothly curved plaster and steel framed layers, separated by translucent poly-carbonate panels.
This combats the intense summer heat and light, but carefully allows indirect natural daylight to gently sift through the deep interior of this unique desert home.
Wandering through the organic curves of this home eventually leads you to another gentle ramp leading to the very private and secluded Meditation Room,
entered through a double shoji door and sporting a supple leather floor radiating around a large circular glass Floor Window. Here is the ideal place to sit and meditate while seeming to hover over the colorful reflecting koi pool just below. The glass meditation room walls slide open, revealing a special desert garden, while at night the gurgling water reflects dancing lights up through the glass floor into this lovely Zen Zone.
"Blocking the intense summer sun was a prime objective here and was accomplished by clever site orientation, massive roof overhangs, super insulated exterior walls and roof, ultra high-efficiency water cooled A/C system and ample earth contact and below grade areas."
There is a shady garden path with foot bridge crossing over a natural desert wash, leading to the detached Desert Office, actually set below the xeriscape desert garden by 30" while hidden below, completely underground and naturally cooled sits another six car garage.
The main residence also has a 4 car below grade garage and lovely swimming pool with party patio in the backyard.
This property falls withing the City Of Scottsdale Natural Area Open Space area so special attention was required for this sensitive desert land project.
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