A handy, empty-nester couple, nearing retirement, sold their mansion, and purchased a fixer-upper on a sunlit hillside that features the spectacular ocean view of the Channel Islands. ENRarchitects was hired to assist with making minor enhancements to the plan, integrating the lower level parking court, and adding a patio deck. The owner, a retiring engineer, took on the responsibilities of general contracting during construction. Our collaboration included opening the kitchen to the Living-Dining space, so all can enjoy the ocean view. A balcony was added to second floor Master Study, with a new laundry room below it. Both bathrooms were modestly enlarged to provide more spacious showers. Lastly, the Entry Foyer was opened to ceiling height into the Living Room. In California, ocean views inherently include relentless west sunshine, and formidable interior heat gain. Multiple design studies explored various means to incorporate shading and solar screening measures to permit the view, and to reduce heat gain. Additional studies featured more substantial proposed additions, including a lower level guest suite, and a detached office. A key feature, is the addition of a raised, covered entry porch, where passengers and goods can be offloaded, prior to parking on the lower level. The new porch also provides a secondary transition around the structure to the ocean view, split-level patio. A 2nd phase included the suggestion of rebuilding the lower covered parking to include a roof deck, rooftop guest suite, and solar electricity, which was successfully completed. The property is now mildly reminiscent of the Sea Ranch community. With the blessing of year-round comfortable weather, and ever-changing, dynamic views, the successfully remodeled home takes full advantage for a new generation of colorful living. (photo by owner) "We are so happy with the results, and proud you’d include our place in your client list. We are extremely happy and will always tout your skills." -Bill & Janice, Camarillo

This dining room exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends. The substantial wooden dining table and comfortable chairs provide ample seating for gatherings. The soft, neutral wall color and natural light create a serene and welcoming ambiance. The unique chandelier adds a touch of character and charm. The view through the windows offers a glimpse of the outdoors, enhancing the room's connection to nature.

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.

This kitchen remodel was designed to make a statement—balancing bold character with refined craftsmanship to create a space that’s both highly functional and visually unforgettable. At the heart of the design is a striking contrast palette. Crisp white perimeter cabinetry keeps the space bright and open, while rich black lower cabinets and a substantial island ground the room with depth and sophistication. The oversized island serves as both a functional workspace and a central gathering point, topped with a dramatic stone surface that adds movement and texture. The flooring plays a defining role in the overall aesthetic. A custom black-and-white patterned tile layout introduces energy and personality, transforming the kitchen into a true design centerpiece while maintaining a timeless appeal. This bold foundation is thoughtfully balanced by clean lines, classic shaker cabinetry, and elegant hardware selections. Functionality was a key driver throughout the project. The layout maximizes workflow efficiency with dedicated zones for cooking, prep, and cleanup. A professional-grade range anchors the island, while the farmhouse sink positioned beneath large windows brings in natural light and enhances the everyday experience. Custom storage solutions—including extended cabinetry, integrated dish storage, and built-in appliance areas—ensure everything has its place without compromising the clean aesthetic. Lighting was carefully layered to elevate both form and function. Statement pendant fixtures above the island add architectural interest, while recessed lighting provides consistent illumination throughout the space. The result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and livable—where bold design choices meet practical everyday use. It’s a space designed not just to cook in, but to gather, entertain, and truly enjoy.

Bamboo directly behind house has been removed. Yard opened up. Views and usage of space substantially enhanced. Some bamboo was allowed to remain, providing a helpful screen of neighboring property. A root barrier, 3' HT was installed to keep the bamboo from returning to the backyard spaces.

The living room is gracefully positioned between a pair of modern archways that define the transition from the central hallways running the length of the home. Natural wood–framed windows bring the outdoors in, infusing the space with warmth and filtered light. At its center, a striking fireplace clad in muted Spanish‑style tiles anchors the room with understated elegance. Built‑in cabinetry on either side—crafted from natural wood—offers both display and storage, enhancing the room’s functionality. A substantial wood beam mantel ties these elements together, reinforcing the home’s cohesive natural material palette.

In a mere week, the once dreary and outdated kitchen, typical of contractor-grade designs, underwent a remarkable transformation, turning from dull to dazzling. The original 1995 oak cabinets, sporting a dated roman arched style, were replaced with sleek, bright white modern shaker cabinets adorned with striking brushed gold accents. To enhance functionality, roll-out shelves were incorporated, complemented by all-new dove-tailed drawers featuring full-extension soft-close slides. An empty expanse of wall was ingeniously converted into a chic beverage station, complete with elegant glass doors. The wall cabinets were elevated with the addition of substantial crown molding, lending an air of sophistication. The laminate countertops were exchanged for luxurious quartz, elevating both aesthetics and durability. Moreover, an overhang was seamlessly integrated into the island, offering supplementary seating. To tie the design together, a tasteful greige porcelain subway tile backsplash was introduced, infusing the space with modern elegance and timeless charm.

A classic colonial transformation was the task at hand. Taking typical compartmentalized rooms and creating an open concept with expansive windows and updating all the finishes not only brought the outside in but also completely reconfigured the flow and sightlines of the home. Set in a tranquil and private setting made maximizing natural light and vistas a priority. The walk-out basement now has open unobstructed views of the sparkling in-ground pool and native landscaping. Contemporary finishes, new custom built-in murphy bed and media wall, as well as a renovated full bath, wet bar and home gym tie the renovation together seamlessly. The first floor overhaul consists of a true open concept kitchen, dining and living spaces. The kitchen was designed without upper cabinets allowing for panoramic outdoor views as well as open and airy work surfaces with tandem islands. A brand new mudroom was designed as the perfect transition between garage and renovated first level. Along with a brand new stair design, wall paneling, renovated powder room, flooring and new light fixtures throughout gave this outdated home a fresh facelift. The exterior's total modification was enhanced with a distinct new entry flanked by substantial stone columns and double height entry. All new siding, windows and spacious deck completed the total improvements and created a truly remarkable before and after project!

A complete remodel of this entire home provided the flow and functionality our clients hoped for, within a space that befittingly showcased their favourite artwork and unique elements of personal self-expression. An artistic spirit is apparent throughout the home as complementary tones of blues, greys, and whites reflect and enhance the ethereal worlds depicted in their cherished art collection. Art is just one of the passions of this family, who also required a kitchen suited to their love of cooking. Vast counter space with high-end finishes and substantial storage in the form of elegant cabinetry frame the centrepiece – a beautifully anachronistic oven imported from France. With its pastel cerulean colour, the range draws the eye and evokes the homeowners’ artistic sensibilities. Similar pops of blue infuse the rest of the home with this cool worldliness, from the refinished bathroom with its walk-in closet, to the décor surrounding the stonework fireplace. This domestic composition is one which could surely fit in alongside our clients’ collection.

A complete remodel of this entire home provided the flow and functionality our clients hoped for, within a space that befittingly showcased their favourite artwork and unique elements of personal self-expression. An artistic spirit is apparent throughout the home as complementary tones of blues, greys, and whites reflect and enhance the ethereal worlds depicted in their cherished art collection. Art is just one of the passions of this family, who also required a kitchen suited to their love of cooking. Vast counter space with high-end finishes and substantial storage in the form of elegant cabinetry frame the centrepiece – a beautifully anachronistic oven imported from France. With its pastel cerulean colour, the range draws the eye and evokes the homeowners’ artistic sensibilities. Similar pops of blue infuse the rest of the home with this cool worldliness, from the refinished bathroom with its walk-in closet, to the décor surrounding the stonework fireplace. This domestic composition is one which could surely fit in alongside our clients’ collection.

A dilapidated addition at the rear of this Glebe home was removed and replaced. The floor area was increased which made it possible to substantially increase the size of the kitchen while improving the visual connection to the quiet park and pond adjacent to the property. The room exudes a calm elegance; subtle paint colours and white oak flooring create a tranquil atmosphere, while trim and plaster mouldings are used to highlight and define openings. Two doorways link the kitchen to the formal dining room – making entertaining and hosting dinner parties a dream. Traditional and antique fixtures and furnishings such as the armoire, the table and chairs in the breakfast nook, glass-fronted cabinetry, and European style windows all enhance the old world charm of the house. The kitchen features a bay window and sitting area which has picturesque views of the park. A French door gives direct access to the back terrace. A sleek black and stainless faucet and dramatic chandelier create contrast in the all-white kitchen. Caesarstone countertops, glass-front cabinets, and crown mouldings tie into the home’s Parisian-inspired interior. Photography: Adrien Williams

Reflecting the unique visual splendor found only in nature, Ridge captures the organic beauty of the great outdoors and brings it inside. Distinguished by simplified forms and silhouettes, this whole home collection is evocative of the sweeping vistas that have inspired landscape artists for centuries. Ridge has a bold linear attitude balanced with softly angled elements and tapered detailing. While functional at heart, each piece is thoughtfully designed to visually enhance the appeal of its surroundings. Wirebrushed oak adds refined character that is brought to life in organic finish options. Custom hardware designs feel substantial in the hand and feature a hammered look suggestive of flowing water. At its essence, a space furnished with the authentic character of Ridge delivers an experience that feels refreshing yet balanced, energizing yet harmonious.

A complete remodel of this entire home provided the flow and functionality our clients hoped for, within a space that befittingly showcased their favourite artwork and unique elements of personal self-expression. An artistic spirit is apparent throughout the home as complementary tones of blues, greys, and whites reflect and enhance the ethereal worlds depicted in their cherished art collection. Art is just one of the passions of this family, who also required a kitchen suited to their love of cooking. Vast counter space with high-end finishes and substantial storage in the form of elegant cabinetry frame the centrepiece – a beautifully anachronistic oven imported from France. With its pastel cerulean colour, the range draws the eye and evokes the homeowners’ artistic sensibilities. Similar pops of blue infuse the rest of the home with this cool worldliness, from the refinished bathroom with its walk-in closet, to the décor surrounding the stonework fireplace. This domestic composition is one which could surely fit in alongside our clients’ collection.

Reflecting the unique visual splendor found only in nature, Ridge captures the organic beauty of the great outdoors and brings it inside. Distinguished by simplified forms and silhouettes, this whole home collection is evocative of the sweeping vistas that have inspired landscape artists for centuries. Ridge has a bold linear attitude balanced with softly angled elements and tapered detailing. While functional at heart, each piece is thoughtfully designed to visually enhance the appeal of its surroundings. Wirebrushed oak adds refined character that is brought to life in organic finish options. Custom hardware designs feel substantial in the hand and feature a hammered look suggestive of flowing water. At its essence, a space furnished with the authentic character of Ridge delivers an experience that feels refreshing yet balanced, energizing yet harmonious.

The new Owners of this cottage on Dickie Lake in the Township of Lake of Bays approached us to design a substantial “face-lift” renovation of the existing cottage, and to design a new garage for secure storage. A scrapbook collection of architectural style reference photos that the Owners had collected set the starting point for an integrated & consistent design style between the cottage and the new garage. A gable roof feature was added to “celebrate the entry” to the existing cottage. Windows, doors & siding were installed to the newly constructed garage. Windows & doors in the existing cottage were integrated with the new board & batten siding applied to both the cottage and the garage. A high-quality exterior siding stain was applied by hand-brushing for enhanced penetration & protection. A durable exterior deck stain was applied to the new cedar deck.

The new Owners of this cottage on Dickie Lake in the Township of Lake of Bays approached us to design a substantial “face-lift” renovation of the existing cottage, and to design a new garage for secure storage. A scrapbook collection of architectural style reference photos that the Owners had collected set the starting point for an integrated & consistent design style between the cottage and the new garage. A gable roof feature was added to “celebrate the entry” to the existing cottage. Windows, doors & siding were installed to the newly constructed garage. Windows & doors in the existing cottage were integrated with the new board & batten siding applied to both the cottage and the garage. A high-quality exterior siding stain was applied by hand-brushing for enhanced penetration & protection. A durable exterior deck stain was applied to the new cedar deck.

A complete remodel of this entire home provided the flow and functionality our clients hoped for, within a space that befittingly showcased their favourite artwork and unique elements of personal self-expression. An artistic spirit is apparent throughout the home as complementary tones of blues, greys, and whites reflect and enhance the ethereal worlds depicted in their cherished art collection. Art is just one of the passions of this family, who also required a kitchen suited to their love of cooking. Vast counter space with high-end finishes and substantial storage in the form of elegant cabinetry frame the centrepiece – a beautifully anachronistic oven imported from France. With its pastel cerulean colour, the range draws the eye and evokes the homeowners’ artistic sensibilities. Similar pops of blue infuse the rest of the home with this cool worldliness, from the refinished bathroom with its walk-in closet, to the décor surrounding the stonework fireplace. This domestic composition is one which could surely fit in alongside our clients’ collection.

A dilapidated addition at the rear of this Glebe home was removed and replaced. The floor area was increased which made it possible to substantially increase the size of the kitchen while improving the visual connection to the quiet park and pond adjacent to the property. The room exudes a calm elegance; subtle paint colours and white oak flooring create a tranquil atmosphere, while trim and plaster mouldings are used to highlight and define openings. Two doorways link the kitchen to the formal dining room – making entertaining and hosting dinner parties a dream. Traditional and antique fixtures and furnishings such as the armoire, the table and chairs in the breakfast nook, glass-fronted cabinetry, and European style windows all enhance the old world charm of the house. The kitchen features a bay window and sitting area which has picturesque views of the park. A French door gives direct access to the back terrace. A sleek black and stainless faucet and dramatic chandelier create contrast in the all-white kitchen. Caesarstone countertops, glass-front cabinets, and crown mouldings tie into the home’s Parisian-inspired interior. Photography: Adrien Williams

A complete remodel of this entire home provided the flow and functionality our clients hoped for, within a space that befittingly showcased their favourite artwork and unique elements of personal self-expression. An artistic spirit is apparent throughout the home as complementary tones of blues, greys, and whites reflect and enhance the ethereal worlds depicted in their cherished art collection. Art is just one of the passions of this family, who also required a kitchen suited to their love of cooking. Vast counter space with high-end finishes and substantial storage in the form of elegant cabinetry frame the centrepiece – a beautifully anachronistic oven imported from France. With its pastel cerulean colour, the range draws the eye and evokes the homeowners’ artistic sensibilities. Similar pops of blue infuse the rest of the home with this cool worldliness, from the refinished bathroom with its walk-in closet, to the décor surrounding the stonework fireplace. This domestic composition is one which could surely fit in alongside our clients’ collection.