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.

Our clients came to us with a house that did not inspire them but which they knew had the potential to give them everything that they dreamed of. They trusted in our approach and process and over the course of the year we designed and gut renovated the first floor of their home to address the seen items and unseen structural needs including: a new custom kitchen with walk-in pantry and functional island, new living room space and full master bathroom with large custom shower, updated living room and dining, re-facing and redesign of their fireplace and stairs to the second floor, new wide-plank white oaks floors throughout, interior painting, new trim and mouldings throughout.

Mark Hoyle Originally, this 3700 SF two level eclectic farmhouse from the mid 1980’s underwent design changes to reflect a more colonial style. Now, after being completely renovated with additional 2800 SF living space, it’s combined total of 6500 SF boasts an Energy Star certification of 5 stars. Approaching this completed home, you will meander along a new driveway through the dense buffer of trees until you reach the clearing, and then circle a tiered fountain on axis with the front entry accentuating the symmetrical main structure. Many of the exterior changes included enclosing the front porch and rear screened porch, replacing windows, replacing all the vinyl siding with and fiber cement siding, creating a new front stoop with winding brick stairs and wrought iron railings as will as other additions to the left and rear of the home. The existing interior was completely fro the studs and included modifying uses of many of the existing rooms such as converting the original dining room into an oval shaped theater with reclining theater seats, fiber-optic starlight ceiling and an 80” television with built-in surround sound. The laundry room increased in size by taking in the porch and received all new cabinets and finishes. The screened porch across the back of the house was enclosed to create a new dining room, enlarged the kitchen, all of which allows for a commanding view of the beautifully landscaped pool. The upper master suite begins by entering a private office then leads to a newly vaulted bedroom, a new master bathroom with natural light and an enlarged closet. The major portion of the addition space was added to the left side as a part time home for the owner’s brother. This new addition boasts an open plan living, dining and kitchen, a master suite with a luxurious bathroom and walk–in closet, a guest suite, a garage and its own private gated brick courtyard entry and direct access to the well appointed pool patio. And finally the last part of the project is the sunroom and new lagoon style pool. Tucked tightly against the rear of the home. This room was created to feel like a gazebo including a metal roof and stained wood ceiling, the foundation of this room was constructed with the pool to insure the look as if it is floating on the water. The pool’s negative edge opposite side allows open views of the trees beyond. There is a natural stone waterfall on one side of the pool and a shallow area on the opposite side for lounge chairs to be placed in it along with a hot tub that spills into the pool. The coping completes the pool’s natural shape and continues to the patio utilizing the same stone but separated by Zoysia grass keeping the natural theme. The finishing touches to this backyard oasis is completed utilizing large boulders, Tempest Torches, architectural lighting and abundant variety of landscaping complete the oasis for all to enjoy.

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.

The existing pool created the framework for this contemporary landscape in Lawrence Park. Credit Valley flagstone and walling stone are a staple for Toronto landscaping. The matching red brick ties the cabana structure into the house giving this landscape a seamless approach in its execution.

This Chicago historic luxury home renovation focused on preserving the architectural character of a classic Victorian stone residence while transforming the interior for modern living. The exterior façade retains its original stone masonry, dramatic turret detail, arched openings, and strong historic presence—elements that define the home’s identity and timeless curb appeal. Inside, the project involved a full-scale renovation including custom kitchen remodeling, modern living spaces, luxury bathroom upgrades, and structural coordination required to support contemporary functionality within a historic footprint. Careful planning was essential to respect the original architecture while integrating modern systems, layout improvements, and elevated finishes. This project reflects a design-build approach where preservation and performance work together—maintaining what gives the home its character while creating a refined, highly functional space built for long-term living.

This kitchen renovation is a masterclass in style-meets-function. Featuring sage green shaker cabinets paired with a white quartz island, the design balances bold color with classic structure. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry provides generous storage, while a custom built-in wine rack adds a personal, entertaining-friendly touch. Statement pendant lights float above the island like sculptural art, softening the look with their petal-inspired design. The mix of soft green, antique gold, oak and kona wood finishes, and clean white surfaces gives the space a fresh, transitional vibe that’s both modern and approachable. With a focus on durability, layout, and personality, this kitchen was made to gather, cook, and stay awhile.

This Chicago luxury kitchen remodel was designed around scale, function, and architectural clarity. The oversized quartz waterfall island serves as the centerpiece of the space, creating both a strong visual anchor and a highly functional surface for cooking, gathering, and everyday living. Surrounding the island, full-height custom cabinetry, integrated appliances, premium stainless steel finishes, and a statement metal ceiling detail bring structure and sophistication to the kitchen. The layout was carefully planned to support natural movement between the kitchen, dining, and living spaces while maintaining clean lines and open flow. Exposed wood beams and layered material contrasts add warmth and depth, creating a balance between modern refinement and livable comfort. This project reflects a design-build approach where every detail is coordinated early to ensure lasting quality and seamless execution.

Example of a minimalist exterior home design

There’s something timeless about a traditional living room—its ability to feel both refined and deeply livable is what makes it such a lasting favorite. In this recent project, we set out to create a space that honored classic design principles while thoughtfully adapting to the realities of modern life—especially in a home shared with two large, beloved dogs. The foundation of the room begins with color. We selected Sherwin-Williams SW 7741 “Willow Tree” for both the walls and trim, creating a rich, enveloping tone that immediately establishes warmth and cohesion. By carrying the same hue across architectural elements, the space feels grounded and intentional, allowing texture and detail to take center stage rather than contrast alone. To elevate the architecture, we introduced a series of custom ceiling beams that draw the eye upward and add a sense of structure and craftsmanship. These were complemented by wall and ceiling ogee molding, bringing in a layer of traditional ornamentation that feels both elegant and tailored. The subtle curves of the ogee profiles soften the room while reinforcing its classic character. Lighting played a key role in enhancing both ambiance and functionality. We incorporated wall sconces to provide a warm, diffused glow in the evenings, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. These are balanced by crinkle metal floor lamps, which add a touch of modern texture and visual interest without straying from the overall aesthetic. At the heart of the room sits a custom-designed sofa—arguably the most important piece in any living space. Given the homeowners’ lifestyle, durability was just as important as beauty. We upholstered the sofa in outdoor-grade Sunbrella fabric, a decision that ensures long-term performance without sacrificing style. The fabric resists wear, stains, and fading, making it an ideal solution for a home with pets while maintaining a polished, tailored look. Layering was essential in completing the design. A generously sized 9' x 12' area rug anchors the seating arrangement, adding softness underfoot and defining the space. Decorative mirrors were strategically placed to reflect light and create depth, while faux plants introduce greenery without the maintenance—an ideal choice for busy households. The result is a living room that feels elevated yet approachable, traditional yet practical. It’s a space designed not just to be admired, but to be lived in—where thoughtful material choices and timeless details come together to support both style and everyday life.

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.

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.

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.

Trendy patio photo in DC Metro

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.

Located in the agricultural outskirts of Grand Junction, this project was designed as a forever home for our client to enjoy the views and live in the heart of her daughter’s ranch. This is the second home on the property, and being sensitive to the existing structures was key to the success of the project. Our client values privacy and maintaining the wide open nature of living within the farm lands that built the Grand Valley. We were able to be mindful of the existing home, as well as the distant neighbors, to create a mountain modern farmhouse, rooted in Grand Junction’s agricultural landscape. Design Concept One of the most prominent items on our client’s wish list was an abundance of natural light and a connection to the outdoor spaces. Without any natural features to provide shade to the home, we designed awning features, deep eaves and spacious porches to shield the large expanses of glass from the intense western Colorado sun. We designed well shaded clerestory windows to allow natural light to reach deep into the interior spaces and installed energy efficient, Low-E Weathershield windows to provide year round interior comfort. Our client also valued an open floor plan and durability of materials to make the home as maintenance free as possible. We installed tile flooring throughout for ease of cleaning, installed standing seam metal on the roof for longevity, and fiber cement board siding for durability. It is a harsh landscape in the Western Colorado sun, and we wanted our client’s home to withstand the tests of the desert. Aging in Place Because this was designed as a forever home, we used a number of unique design techniques to ensure the home was safe and suitable for aging in place. The most important technique we utilized was designing a “dropped” floor system allowing our floor to be level with the exterior patios. As in all of our homes, we utilized an energy efficient Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) stem wall foundation. This system also allowed us to easily drop our floor joists into it, eliminating any steps, big or small, going into the house. The seamless transitions not only provide safe maneuvering throughout the home, but also a contemporary flair on the farmhouse aesthetic. The positioning of the house relative to the existing home, large expanses of wood plank stamped concrete patios and 3+ foot wide doors throughout are only a few of the other approaches we took to make sure our client was safe and comfortable as they age in this home.

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.

The existing pool created the framework for this contemporary landscape in Lawrence Park. Credit Valley flagstone and walling stone are a staple for Toronto landscaping. The matching red brick ties the cabana structure into the house giving this landscape a seamless approach in its execution.

Cogs Construction and Design, Inc. was approached by a customer who had a rotten pressure treated deck that needed to be replaced. The homeowners are very environmentally conscious and wanted to do their part to avoid any toxic runoff into the lake their property abutted. The homeowner researched various materials for their project and decided to rebuild with aluminum decking. The aluminum decking was appealing to the homeowners because it will never rot and it will collect the water runoff that can be directed into a trough system. This project had a couple of engineering hurdles; the property was on a severe slope with a failed retaining wall and the upper deck was 16 feet from the ground with very little land from the house and the water. After the structure was rebuilt, we installed the new aluminum decking and railing system. The decking interlocks into one another and creates a dry area beneath the deck when it rains. This product is a great alternative to wood or composite decking for anyone who has a 2nd story deck and needs a dry area below or would like to control water runoff from their deck. Give us a call to discuss the advantages of aluminum decking. photo credit: Cogs Construction