Search results for "Structured approach" in Home Design Ideas

In this kitchen renovation, the aim was to revamp the space, making it not just functional, but stylish and inviting too. The decision to paint the walls predominantly white instantly promoted brightness and airiness into the room, setting the stage for a modern makeover. Knocking down the wall separating the kitchen from the family room added a touch of spaciousness and promoted seamless interaction between the two areas. Introducing a sleek floating island became the centerpiece, offering both practicality and a contemporary aesthetic. Upgrading to all new appliances ensured efficiency without sacrificing style. The end result? A chic, welcoming kitchen that's as perfect for cooking up a storm as it is for gathering with loved ones.
In this extensive bathroom remodel, a once cluttered and cramped primary bathroom has been meticulously transformed into a spacious and bright oasis. By prioritizing additional storage and leveraging the existing skylight, the space underwent a remarkable renovation without the need for significant structural changes. The skylight was maximized to its full potential by surrounding it with pristine white walls, creating an airy and luminous atmosphere. The introduction of a luxurious marble shower not only adds a touch of sophistication but also contributes to the overall cleanliness and sophistication of the space. Soft gray cabinets and warm wood accents were strategically incorporated to create a bathroom with a serene and welcoming ambiance, evoking a sense of tranquility and comfort. Every detail was meticulously considered, from the placement of storage solutions to the selection of materials, ensuring that the remodeled bathroom exudes both functionality and elegance.
The result is a blend of style and practicality, where every aspect of the design works in harmony to create a serene sanctuary where relaxation and rejuvenation are effortlessly embraced.

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.

The project consists of three primary additions, one a workshop and garage, the second a basement expansion that juts out over the lake, and a third, which expands the existing living areas with a wall of glass. This third addition, originally not part of the project, was a recommendation by Architecture Office well received by the client because of how it transformed the existing living areas.
The existing architecture consists of a historic neo-classical house with a less purist addition that attempts to mimic the original. We took the approach of contrasting the existing to avoid having two additions lacking the craft and integrity of the original. This contrast is a welcoming change to previously dark interiors. The concept opens up opportunities for capturing lake views, creating modern living areas that flow from one to the next.
The rear garage and second floor workshop compliment the owners entrepreneurial spirit, a person who enjoys the act of a making. The form is simple but clearly delineates itself form the brick construction with black metal siding and a glass walkway connecting the two. The structure draws from old factory buildings that gather daylight from above, synthesized through a milky polycarbonate portion of roof.
The basement addition expands on an existing subterranean space used for storage and utilities. This room is converted into a living space with sleeping quarters, wet bar, and restroom facilities. This living room is a mini oasis from the rest of the house with views secluded to the water and sky. The openness of the balcony expand the view in all directions, with the sun blocked under a cantilevered shade cover.
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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.

Kitchen – Integrated Tall Cabinet Concealing Mechanical Ductwork | Toronto
This kitchen detail highlights a thoughtful design-build solution where mechanical requirements and cabinetry design work seamlessly together. Behind the tall cabinet beside the refrigerator is a large air supply duct, required by the mechanical engineer to properly deliver conditioned air to the newly added second floor.
Rather than leaving the duct exposed or boxing it in as an obvious bulkhead, we strategically designed a shallow tall cabinet to conceal the ductwork. This approach maintains clean sightlines, preserves the kitchen’s modern aesthetic, and adds valuable storage space—turning a technical constraint into a functional design advantage.
This level of coordination between mechanical engineering, cabinetry layout, and construction execution is critical in full-home renovations and second floor additions, where systems must be upgraded without compromising design. The result is a kitchen that looks intentional, uncluttered, and highly functional—without revealing the complexity behind the walls.
This detail is a clear example of Cedarstone Group Inc.’s design-build philosophy: solve technical challenges early, integrate them thoughtfully, and make the final space feel effortless.

This Ramat HaSharon home underwent a renovation and expansion. The entrance, approached via a staircase, reveals a glimpse of the pool. New openings in the existing structure connect the garden to the interior, allowing natural light to fill the space.
Concrete-look tiles and wild stone cladding on the façade and patio create a calm, organic atmosphere. The pool is lined with varied tiles and green-toned natural stone, set against lush garden greenery.
Black aluminum windows, front door, and a tiled roof highlight the home's clean, modern lines.
The master suite is located in the attic, featuring natural oak flooring, sloped white ceilings, and Velux windows that bring in daylight and add a soft, serene feel.

On front approach, studio, 2-story bedroom wing, living, and garage come into focus - Rural Modern House - North Central Indiana - Architect: HAUS | Architecture For Modern Lifestyles - Indianapolis Architect - Photo: Adam Reynolds Photography

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Franklin County's Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

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.

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.

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.

This Saint-Laurent residence represents a masterclass in luxury landscape architecture and precision craftsmanship. The design centers around a 50-foot custom concrete pool with an infinity edge located inside the home, creating a seamless visual connection between interior and exterior spaces. The pool is surrounded by a fully custom granite terrace, where every stone was individually measured, cut, and installed by Northstone’s in-house team to achieve architectural accuracy and enduring beauty.
Framing the property, 180 feet of custom aluminum planters define the perimeter with structure and scale. Each planter is filled with 7-foot cedars that form a lush, living wall, providing both privacy and tranquility. This combination of architectural detailing, natural greenery, and exacting craftsmanship transforms the residence into a private retreat that feels refined, sculptural, and timeless.
The project’s layered integration of natural stone, granite craftsmanship, and contemporary landscape architecture makes it a showcase of modern outdoor design. Every element was conceived to balance strength and serenity, reflecting Northstone’s signature approach to creating functional and enduring spaces that elevate daily living.
Recognized as the #1 pool company in Montréal by BestMontrealServices.com
and the #1 landscaping company in Montréal by BestInMTL.com
, The Northstone Group continues to set the benchmark for luxury outdoor living in Montréal and Toronto. With over 180 in-house professionals — including landscape architects, designers, builders, and pool specialists — Northstone delivers projects that exemplify quality, innovation, and timeless design.

Here's what our client had to say about this project which is taken from our review page:
All Square has completed Phase 1 of an expected 3 phase whole house renovation of our lake home, and we are beyond thrilled with the results. We were demanding clients – my husband is an engineer by education and a program manager by profession, so he is very detailed, exacting and demanding. We solicited bids from 3 other general contractors before engaging All Square, but Micah Purvis won our confidence that he and his team could make our dream a reality. Micah is a master communicator, clear, detailed and pro-active in his approach to problems.
We were very happy with all the All Square employees who worked on our job – Daniel and Austin were great and a pleasure to have around – but most especially Justin Solomon, truly a jack of all trades. If there is something Justin can’t do or a skill he doesn’t possess, we aren’t aware of it. Justin was as reliable as the sun, here first thing every morning, troubleshooting problems, dealing with all the sub-contractors and making invaluable structural and design suggestions that made the finished product all the better. I honestly miss having Justin around and our dogs miss him too!
It is obvious that All Square has worked hard to identify and nurture relationships with quality tradesmen and a few of them really stand out for their superior work – Mike (stonemason), Jeremiah Cook (painter) and Michael Stewart (electrician).
When we are ready to begin Phase 2 of the renovation, there is no doubt that we will call Micah and All Square to do the work. We are so happy with our renovation and grateful that we made the right decision to entrust our forever home to All Square.

This formal garden in Highland Park, Texas features an expansive pool and side garden. The front garden features a circular driveway approach to the front porch. The Through side decorative garden gate, you can get a glimpse of the classical fountain and custom shade structure with cast stone columns and hanging baskets filled with flowers. Other design details on the project include a luxury pool with fountain jets, screen trees, Pennsylvania bluestone paving and steps with Mexican beach pebbles. Completed with Naud Burnett & Partners.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Franklin County's Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

The project consists of three primary additions, one a workshop and garage, the second a basement expansion that juts out over the lake, and a third, which expands the existing living areas with a wall of glass. This third addition, originally not part of the project, was a recommendation by Architecture Office well received by the client because of how it transformed the existing living areas.
The existing architecture consists of a historic neo-classical house with a less purist addition that attempts to mimic the original. We took the approach of contrasting the existing to avoid having two additions lacking the craft and integrity of the original. This contrast is a welcoming change to previously dark interiors. The concept opens up opportunities for capturing lake views, creating modern living areas that flow from one to the next.
The rear garage and second floor workshop compliment the owners entrepreneurial spirit, a person who enjoys the act of a making. The form is simple but clearly delineates itself form the brick construction with black metal siding and a glass walkway connecting the two. The structure draws from old factory buildings that gather daylight from above, synthesized through a milky polycarbonate portion of roof.
The basement addition expands on an existing subterranean space used for storage and utilities. This room is converted into a living space with sleeping quarters, wet bar, and restroom facilities. This living room is a mini oasis from the rest of the house with views secluded to the water and sky. The openness of the balcony expand the view in all directions, with the sun blocked under a cantilevered shade cover.

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.

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.

In Seattle's Fremont neighborhood SCJ Studio designed a new landscape to surround and set off a contemporary home by Coates Design Architects. The narrow spaces around the tall home needed structure and organization, and a thoughtful approach to layout and space programming. A concrete patio was installed with a Paloform Bento gas fire feature surrounded by lush, northwest planting. A horizontal board cedar fence provides privacy from the street and creates the cozy feeling of an outdoor room among the trees. LED low-voltage lighting by Kichler Lighting adds night-time warmth.
Photography by: Miranda Estes Photography

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

The addition of a pergola to any deck or patio inherently enhances its aesthetic appeal. Our pergola in Highland Lakes exemplifies this, melding functionality with striking beauty. The structure offers a shaded retreat, essential for those warm Birmingham days, and a new dimension of vertical interest. This verticality adds a sense of height and openness, making the space feel larger and more inviting.
Moreover, the design of this pergola makes a bold architectural statement. We've given it a 'beefier' appearance by incorporating substantial 8x8 posts and robust 4x6 rafters. This choice ensures durability and contributes to a more pronounced, visually impactful presence in the outdoor area. These thoughtful details elevate our pergolas from mere additions to transformative elements of any outdoor space, perfectly blending elegance with practicality.
This functional aspect and our commitment to aesthetic excellence are at the heart of our approach to creating elegant pergola designs. It's how we cater to our clients’ diverse needs and tastes in Birmingham, AL, turning their outdoor visions into breathtaking realities.

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.

Build a Custom Home in 6 Months!
Livio, formerly Aron Builders, is a technology driven, licensed, bonded and insured Home Builder. We build high quality single family homes. We have a five phase process that covers everything a homeowner may experience when designing and building their dream home. Services include California net zero energy building and guaranteed fixed pricing.
Our approach is to employ highly trained professionals as relationship managers along with proprietary technology platform to deliver hassle free, efficient, transparent construction experience to its clients.
Services Provided
Custom Home, Demolition, Energy-Efficient Homes, Floor Plans, Foundation Construction, Green Building, Guesthouse Design & Construction, Home Additions, Home Extensions, Home Remodeling, Multigenerational Homes, New Home Construction, Pool House Design & Construction, Site Planning, Structural Engineering, Sustainable Design
Areas Served
Atherton, Belmont, Campbell, Cupertino, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Los Gatos, Loyola, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Carlos, San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga, Stanford, Sunnyvale, West Menlo Park, Woodside
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