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.

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.

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.

The Setup The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home. The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic. Design Objectives: Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”) Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows) Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space Design Challenges: The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views) Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available The Renewed Space Design Solutions: The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

Saturday July 18, 10:00 to 11:30am | Dedham Lowder Brook by Keith LeBlanc and John Haven of Keith LeBlanc Landscape Architecture A series of structured gardens and terraces were designed in conjunction with a new Greek Revival home set on twelve acres within a residential neighborhood in suburban Boston. The unusual scale of the property conveys the feel of secluded New England woodland, highlighting the dramatic beauty of the existing mature trees, which were carefully cultivated and catalogued by a previous owner with ties to the Arnold Arboretum. The gardens provide spaces both grand, as in the front approach, and intimate, as the walled rear garden, and mediate between the architecture and the woodland setting. Pathways surrounded by rhododendrons and viburnums lead visitors to a hedged pool garden and orchard meadow. The result of this close collaboration among owner, architect, and landscape architect is a subtly crafted landscape at harmony with its formal and naturalistic cues. Photos by Jane Messinger and Keith LeBlanc

This inviting property features a modern farmhouse-style home with a wraparound porch and thoughtful landscaping that enhances its charm. Curved concrete pathways, mulched garden beds, and a lush green lawn create a welcoming approach, while tall trees frame the home in natural serenity. The design balances structure and softness, offering both curb appeal and a peaceful outdoor setting

The Setup The homeowners of this Barrington Hills residence approached Drury Design with a clear vision: transform their existing kitchen into a space that would better serve their active family of four. With two young children who are homeschooled and love to bake with their mom, plus two dogs, this kitchen needed to function as the true heart of the home. The existing kitchen was functional but didn’t maximize the potential of the beautiful natural light and scenic views available through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space was locked between the dining room and family room, which limited structural modifications, but the homeowners wanted to create a more family-friendly environment that would complement the warm walnut built-ins and furnishings in the adjacent dining room while staying true to the home’s overall aesthetic. Design Objectives: Create a highly functional workspace that accommodates multiple family members cooking and gathering simultaneously Maximize the connection to the beautiful outdoor scenery and natural light through thoughtful design choices Establish a cohesive color palette that complements the existing walnut elements in the adjacent dining room without becoming too tone-on-tone (aka “matchy matchy”) Improve the seating arrangement to take advantage of the stunning views (rather than facing away from the windows) Work within the existing architectural constraints, including a curved soffit that could not be removed Increase storage capacity while maintaining clean, uncluttered sightlines throughout the space Design Challenges: The curved soffit presented a design dilemma of whether to echo the curve throughout the kitchen or work with it in a more subtle way The relatively low ceiling height required careful consideration to avoid making the space feel cramped or cave-like The existing hardwood floor could not be refinished, which meant the new kitchen footprint had to match or exceed the original layout exactly Finding the right balance of warm and neutral tones to complement both the existing walnut elements nearby and the natural outdoor views proved challenging The refrigerator placement was constrained by door swing requirements, which affected the entire layout and prevented centering the sink on the back wall Rethinking the original seating, which faced inward toward the kitchen (turning backs to the beautiful windows and outdoor views) Pendant lighting from the previous kitchen obstructed views to the outdoors despite the abundant natural light available The Renewed Space Design Solutions: The curved soffit was embraced subtly through the full slab backsplash, which echoes the curve without requiring curved cabinetry or architectural elements that might feel forced Low ceiling challenges were addressed by using lighter painted cabinets for some tall elements, including the double oven, pantries, and refrigerator area, creating an airy feel while reserving the darker stained walnut for the center section and island The floor constraint was managed by designing the new layout to cover all previously unfinished areas while maintaining the exact footprint, with only minor touch-ups needed in a few areas The color palette balances warm walnut stain (harmonizing with the dining room built-ins) with soft, neutral painted cabinets – avoiding stark white that wouldn’t complement the home’s warm aesthetic Refrigerator placement was optimized with a slim pullout pantry to the left, allowing proper door clearance while maintaining the desired layout flow and enabling the main pantry to be positioned adjacently The seating was completely reimagined with a built-in banquette facing the windows, allowing diners to enjoy the outdoor views while providing flexible seating for two to four people Decorative pendant lighting was eliminated in favor of recessed can lights, preserving the unobstructed views to the beautiful outdoor scenery This kitchen transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can dramatically improve functionality for a busy family while honoring existing architectural elements. The children immediately began cooking and baking with their mother in the new space, and the window-facing banquette has become a favorite gathering spot where the family can enjoy both meals and the beautiful outdoor views.

Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgement as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Architect Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, Seattle,WA Stone Installers Gallegos Corporation, Basalt, CO Stone Supplier Quarra Stone Company, Madison, WI Stone Quarry Bertozzi Felice di Rovai G & C Srl, Pietrasanta (LU), Italy Truffer AG, Vals, Switzerland The Independence Pass Residence is sited at the edge of a nature preserve in Aspen, Colorado with views of an alpine meadow, forests of evergreen and aspen trees, the Roaring Fork River and the Rocky Mountains. The owners requested something very different from large, ostentatious heavy-timber homes that appear throughout the Aspen slopes: a home that would reach out to nature, not to gird against it; one that would feel light and modern, yet not on display. Approached from the north, a driveway leads from the main road to a private parking court, sheltered from wind and weather. The house stretches between two existing hills on the site; forming a threshold to the views of the meandering river and nature preserve beyond. The lower level is expressed as a series of stone-clad walls that extend the building into the landscape. The upper level is a sleek box with a metal roof that floats on slender columns. Pre-weathered wood siding is used to clad the upper level of the buildings and will continue to weather to a silver grey. All exterior cladding materials are intended to weather naturally with little maintenance to a palette of soft grays. A wall of black-stained cedar boards marks the main entry and extends through the house into a double-height space with a floating stair. Cantilevered wood stair treads lead to the upper level and main living pavilion where full-height walls of glass reveal panoramic views of the nature preserve and New York peak. The living room, dining room and kitchen occupy the center of the linear floor plan, with a master bedroom suite to the west and a family room and outdoor courtyard to the east. A fireplace clad in Vals quartzite forms the western edge of the living room with a large skylight above. A reading alcove with a bench of wood slats is lined with Douglas fir panels and stainless steel shelves for display of the owner’s photography collection. Sliding panels of glass open to an outdoor deck, further blurring the boundary between interior and exterior. A second stair connecting all levels of the house is crafted of a one-inch thick steel plate that is both structure and guardrail, slicing through the vertical space. Ground level spaces include three bedrooms with individual baths, a guest suite, mudroom and exercise room.

Regardless of the scope of the project, we take a client-centered approach. We are committed to our goal of creating structures and home improvements that reflect our clients’ visions and lifestyles, and we achieve this by communicating with clients at each stage of the process.

Drainage Solutions & Curb Appeal Transformation This project focused on solving a persistent drainage issue that was impacting both the usability and appearance of the property. Standing water and poor grading were creating functional problems while diminishing the home’s overall curb appeal—an issue many homeowners face when water isn’t properly directed away from the home. Fowler Outdoor Co. approached the project with a design-build mindset, addressing the root cause of the drainage problem through proper grading, water management, and structural solutions. By integrating effective drainage systems with thoughtfully designed hardscape elements, the team was able to redirect water flow, protect the property, and create a more stable foundation for the landscape. Beyond functionality, the transformation elevated the front yard’s appearance with clean lines, intentional materials, and a cohesive layout that complements the home. The result is a space that not only performs better during heavy rain but also delivers a polished, welcoming first impression. This project is a great example of how solving underlying issues like drainage can completely transform both the look and long-term performance of an outdoor space.

This contemporary conservatory is located just off of historic Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The stately home featured many classic exterior details and was located in the heart of the famous district, so Sunspace worked closely with the owners and their architect to design a space that would blend with the existing home and ultimately be approved for construction by the Cambridge Historical Commission. The project began with the removal of an old greenhouse structure which had outlived its usefulness. The removal of the greenhouse gave the owners the perfect opportunity substantially upgrade the space. Sunspace opened the wall between the conservatory and the existing home to allow natural light to penetrate the building. We used Marvin windows and doors to help create the look we needed for the exterior, thereby creating a seamless blend between the existing and new construction. The clients requested a space that would be comfortable year-round, so the use of energy efficient doors and windows as well as high performance roof glass was critically important. We chose a PPG Solar Ban 70 XL treatment and added Argon glass. The efficiency of the roof glass and the Marvin windows allowed us to provide an economical approach to the client’s heating and air conditioning needs. The final result saw the transformation of an outdated space and into a historically appropriate custom glass space which allows for beautiful, natural light to enter the home. The clients now use this space every day.

ASID Design Excellence First Place Residential – Kitchen: Originally commissioned in 1977 by our clients, this residence was designed by renowned architect Donald Olsen whose life's work is thoroughly documented in the book Donald Olsen: Architect of Habitable Abstractions. Michael Merrill Design Studio was approached three years ago to do a comprehensive rethinking of the structure, spaces and the exterior envelope. We hope you will enjoy this preview of the greatly enlarged and updated kitchen and home office.

When approaching the design of this home, our main goal was to maintain the rich charm of Tuscan-style architecture, while infusing it with modern elements to create an updated, sophisticated look. The traditional heavy archways, natural stone, and hand painted walls are a grace to the original structure, but the addition of clean lines, stainless steel appliances, and sleek glass elements allowed for achieving a more contemporary feel. Overall, the design project gave a revived and modern spin to the Tuscan-style architecture. The contemporary addition, updates, and sophisticated ambiance resounded with elegance and comfort that we sought via maintaining balance between older architectural charm and a modern design. #ACIstyled #ACIxHEATHROW

The Arcadia Louvered Roof enhances the beauty of any style home and provides the flexibility of having an open roof when the weather is good or a solid roof to keep the rain off your patio when the weather turns bad. Eco-friendly Construction The Arcadia system is made up of recycled aluminum making it an extremely Green product. It is also eco-friendly, helping consumers save on passive solar heating and cooling. We Think Green Arcadia is proud to continue the company's tradition with its approach to Environmental Innovation. From the choice of lightweight materials and lean production methods to the efficiency of its drive system and designs, Arcadia is committed to operating as a more sustainable business and reducing its overall environmental impact. High-quality Building Materials Each Arcadia system is a work of art, constructed with care and attention to every little detail. Our system is powered coated, extruded aluminum with stainless steel components giving us the most durable louvered roof on the market today. From our superior drive system, which is UL & CE certified, down to the stainless steel tex screws that secures the system together. Nothing but the best! Our low-maintenance components eliminate painting, staining, and waterproofing of traditional shading structures. Using powder-coated aluminum construction prevents warping, cracking, and corrosion.

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

This project in Downingtown focused on refreshing a rear patio while preserving a natural, organic look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Building a Strong, Natural Foundation We began by carefully grading and leveling the patio area to create a stable base for the installation. To reinforce the perimeter and maintain long-term durability, small boulders were tightly placed along the edges. This approach not only enhances the natural aesthetic but also helps prevent the loss of base material over time. With the foundation prepared, we installed irregular flagstone, cutting and fitting each piece with precision. The result is a clean, tightly joined surface that resembles a natural stone puzzle, structured yet organic in appearance. Bringing It All Together To improve flow throughout the yard, stepping stone pathways were added on both sides of the patio. These pathways create smooth, intuitive transitions to other areas of the rear garden while maintaining the same natural design language. To complete the project, we constructed a flagstone walkway connecting the driveway to the rear garden. This addition enhances accessibility and ties the entire outdoor space together, creating a cohesive, functional environment that feels both intentional and effortlessly natural. If you’re looking to create a natural, beautifully crafted patio or walkway in Downingtown or anywhere around Chester County, our team is here to help. From thoughtful design to precise installation, we bring outdoor spaces to life with lasting quality and care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your transformation.

This Redmond kitchen renovation focused on elevating the space while preserving the original layout and structural framework. The design approach emphasizes visual clarity, balanced proportions, and long-term functionality, creating a modern yet timeless environment. Custom cabinetry was integrated along the perimeter, with carefully aligned door proportions and clean lines that establish a cohesive architectural presence. The light-toned countertops and continuous backsplash enhance the sense of openness while maintaining a refined, unified material palette. Layered lighting, including concealed LED strips, provides both functional illumination and subtle ambient depth, highlighting surfaces without overwhelming the space. The central island serves as the functional and visual anchor of the kitchen, improving workflow while naturally connecting to the surrounding living areas. All phases of the project — from design and material selection to installation — were completed by our in-house team, ensuring precision, consistency, and full quality control without outsourcing.

When approaching the design of this home, our main goal was to maintain the rich charm of Tuscan-style architecture, while infusing it with modern elements to create an updated, sophisticated look. The traditional heavy archways, natural stone, and hand painted walls are a grace to the original structure, but the addition of clean lines, stainless steel appliances, and sleek glass elements allowed for achieving a more contemporary feel. Overall, the design project gave a revived and modern spin to the Tuscan-style architecture. The contemporary addition, updates, and sophisticated ambiance resounded with elegance and comfort that we sought via maintaining balance between older architectural charm and a modern design. #ACIstyled #ACIxHEATHROW

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.