Country Garden Residence by Olson Kunding. Photos by: Jeremy Bitterman
Inspiration for a cottage exterior home remodel in Portland

In each corner of the open courtyard contains beautiful purple, orange and yellow flowers. I made the green animal print runner and pillows. The gold and eggplant panels flank the French doors to create softness and color.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Roy Timm Photography
Example of a southwest u-shaped medium tone wood floor enclosed kitchen design in Toronto with recessed-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and an island

Duality Photographic
Freestanding bathtub - large contemporary master beige tile and matchstick tile light wood floor and beige floor freestanding bathtub idea with flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, white walls, a vessel sink, solid surface countertops and a hinged shower door

This ICON Brickell Airbnb studio kitchen and entry were designed as part of a fully outfitted investment property inspired by the bold Baroque energy of the ICON Brickell lobby. The compact kitchen connects to a dramatic entry experience with navy flocked leopard wallpaper, Baroque-inspired artwork, sculptural lighting, and layered designer details that gave the studio a strong boutique-hotel identity. Designed for the competitive Brickell short-term rental market, the space balanced guest function, visual impact, and a memorable themed experience that helped the Airbnb stand out in one of Miami’s most recognizable destination buildings.

Clean L-shaped residential kitchen with full white push-to-open handleless cabinetry for sleek unobstructed facade. Upper wall cabinets with open niche niche storage flank window area, matching marble-effect quartz splashback connects countertop seamlessly, sufficient base drawers and cabinet doors organize cookware and groceries. Large-format grey floor tiles enhance durability, bright all-white scheme suits Israel’s strong sunlight environment, keeping the kitchen visually fresh and easy to maintain long-term.

This bathroom style typically takes inspiration from design trends, decor, and materials connected to specific historical eras. In some cases, it is easier to define traditional bathroom design in terms of what it is not – modern, contemporary, or minimalist. A classic bathroom feels more like a relaxing spa oasis thanks to its elegant hues and luxurious touches. To put it short, traditional-style bathrooms are classic, timeless, and beautifully aesthetic.

The living room at Project Stone Creek, a custom home build in Woodstock, is designed as a warm and inviting gathering space filled with natural light. Large windows, soft neutral finishes, and a centered fireplace create a balanced layout that supports everyday living and relaxed entertaining. Thoughtful furnishings, clean architectural lines, and a seamless connection to the covered porch reflect elevated custom home design tailored for long term comfort.

Design ideas for a large asian partial sun backyard concrete paver formal garden for spring.

This bathroom style typically takes inspiration from design trends, decor, and materials connected to specific historical eras. In some cases, it is easier to define traditional bathroom design in terms of what it is not – modern, contemporary, or minimalist. A classic bathroom feels more like a relaxing spa oasis thanks to its elegant hues and luxurious touches. To put it short, traditional-style bathrooms are classic, timeless, and beautifully aesthetic.

This bathroom style typically takes inspiration from design trends, decor, and materials connected to specific historical eras. In some cases, it is easier to define traditional bathroom design in terms of what it is not – modern, contemporary, or minimalist. A classic bathroom feels more like a relaxing spa oasis thanks to its elegant hues and luxurious touches. To put it short, traditional-style bathrooms are classic, timeless, and beautifully aesthetic.

Photography by Raquel Langworthy
Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional master white tile and ceramic tile cement tile floor and green floor alcove shower remodel in New York with flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, white walls, an integrated sink, concrete countertops and a hinged shower door

Lincoln Farmhouse LEED-H Platinum, Net-Positive Energy OVERVIEW. This LEED Platinum certified modern farmhouse ties into the cultural landscape of Lincoln, Massachusetts - a town known for its rich history, farming traditions, conservation efforts, and visionary architecture. The goal was to design and build a new single family home on 1.8 acres that respects the neighborhood’s agrarian roots, produces more energy than it consumes, and provides the family with flexible spaces to live-play-work-entertain. The resulting 2,800 SF home is proof that families do not need to compromise on style, space or comfort in a highly energy-efficient and healthy home. CONNECTION TO NATURE. The attached garage is ubiquitous in new construction in New England’s cold climate. This home’s barn-inspired garage is intentionally detached from the main dwelling. A covered walkway connects the two structures, creating an intentional connection with the outdoors between auto and home. FUNCTIONAL FLEXIBILITY. With a modest footprint, each space must serve a specific use, but also be flexible for atypical scenarios. The Mudroom serves everyday use for the couple and their children, but is also easy to tidy up to receive guests, eliminating the need for two entries found in most homes. A workspace is conveniently located off the mudroom; it looks out on to the back yard to supervise the children and can be closed off with a sliding door when not in use. The Away Room opens up to the Living Room for everyday use; it can be closed off with its oversized pocket door for secondary use as a guest bedroom with en suite bath. NET POSITIVE ENERGY. The all-electric home consumes 70% less energy than a code-built house, and with measured energy data produces 48% more energy annually than it consumes, making it a 'net positive' home. Thick walls and roofs lack thermal bridging, windows are high performance, triple-glazed, and a continuous air barrier yields minimal leakage (0.27ACH50) making the home among the tightest in the US. Systems include an air source heat pump, an energy recovery ventilator, and a 13.1kW photovoltaic system to offset consumption and support future electric cars. ACTUAL PERFORMANCE. -6.3 kBtu/sf/yr Energy Use Intensity (Actual monitored project data reported for the firm’s 2016 AIA 2030 Commitment. Average single family home is 52.0 kBtu/sf/yr.) o 10,900 kwh total consumption (8.5 kbtu/ft2 EUI) o 16,200 kwh total production o 5,300 kwh net surplus, equivalent to 15,000-25,000 electric car miles per year. 48% net positive. WATER EFFICIENCY. Plumbing fixtures and water closets consume a mere 60% of the federal standard, while high efficiency appliances such as the dishwasher and clothes washer also reduce consumption rates. FOOD PRODUCTION. After clearing all invasive species, apple, pear, peach and cherry trees were planted. Future plans include blueberry, raspberry and strawberry bushes, along with raised beds for vegetable gardening. The house also offers a below ground root cellar, built outside the home's thermal envelope, to gain the passive benefit of long term energy-free food storage. RESILIENCY. The home's ability to weather unforeseen challenges is predictable - it will fare well. The super-insulated envelope means during a winter storm with power outage, heat loss will be slow - taking days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. During normal conditions, reduced energy consumption plus energy production means shelter from the burden of utility costs. Surplus production can power electric cars & appliances. The home exceeds snow & wind structural requirements, plus far surpasses standard construction for long term durability planning. ARCHITECT: ZeroEnergy Design http://zeroenergy.com/lincoln-farmhouse CONTRACTOR: Thoughtforms http://thoughtforms-corp.com/ PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuck Choi http://www.chuckchoi.com/

The living room at Project Stone Creek, a custom home build in Woodstock, is designed as a warm and inviting gathering space filled with natural light. Large windows, soft neutral finishes, and a centered fireplace create a balanced layout that supports everyday living and relaxed entertaining. Thoughtful furnishings, clean architectural lines, and a seamless connection to the covered porch reflect elevated custom home design tailored for long term comfort.

This Georgian Revival house design in Mission Hills, Kansas, is based on a traditional center hall plan and traditional Georgian details. Each detail has been carefully considered in terms of size; scale, and historical appropriateness. A carriage house/cabana, overlooking the pool and traditional English garden is connected to the main structure by a veranda. The interior of the house is designed in a traditional manner. Highlights include an antique long leaf pine paneled library; custom carved rosettes for the frieze board in the formal living and dining rooms; imported 18th century fireplace surrounds; custom-made figured walnut raised panel doors, and reclaimed antique oak flooring. Interior Designer: Dick Davenport, Wichita, KS General Contractor: Joel Fritzel Construction, Lawrence, KS

This Georgian Revival house design in Mission Hills, Kansas, is based on a traditional center hall plan and traditional Georgian details. Each detail has been carefully considered in terms of size; scale, and historical appropriateness. A carriage house/cabana, overlooking the pool and traditional English garden is connected to the main structure by a veranda. The interior of the house is designed in a traditional manner. Highlights include an antique long leaf pine paneled library; custom carved rosettes for the frieze board in the formal living and dining rooms; imported 18th century fireplace surrounds; custom-made figured walnut raised panel doors, and reclaimed antique oak flooring. Interior Designer: Dick Davenport, Wichita, KS General Contractor: Joel Fritzel Construction, Lawrence, KS

Inside, the home continues its disciplined aesthetic—open, airy, and rooted in natural texture. White oak floors, custom cabinetry, and stone countertops create a neutral foundation that highlights the home’s architectural lines. The open floor plan connects kitchen, dining, and living areas, while expansive window walls extend sightlines into the landscape. Mechanical and structural systems are discreetly integrated for comfort and performance. High-efficiency insulation, HVAC zoning, and moisture control ensure long-term durability and efficiency. Outdoor living areas—terraces, porches, and patios—mirror the main structure’s material language, with continuous stone and wood elements that blur the boundary between interior and exterior. Every joint, reveal, and finish at Summit Ridge exemplifies CarsonSpeer Builders’ dedication to authenticity, proportion, and craftsmanship. This modern Southern residence stands as a testament to timeless design—crafted to endure, inspire, and live beautifully within its mountain setting.