This Chicago open concept renovation was designed to create a seamless connection between the kitchen and living space while introducing stronger architectural definition throughout the home. The centerpiece of the living area is a custom floor-to-ceiling fireplace wall, finished with large-format dark tile and a sleek linear fireplace that anchors the entire room. Exposed wood beams add warmth and structural character, while the adjacent custom kitchen features premium surfaces, integrated appliances, and a clean modern layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The open-plan design improves flow, natural light, and functionality across the main level. Every element of this project was planned with precision—from structural coordination to finish selection—resulting in a space that feels refined, intentional, and built for long-term living.

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.

The Roger Lee designed house from 1962 was purchased by the current homeowners in almost original condition, as the previous owners elected to defer most maintenance projects over the years. The clients were able to see beyond the dated materials and finishes, single-paned glass and uninsulated walls and they approached Klopf Architecture to help them expand and update the entire home, one the family could settle into and enjoy for years to come. It was important that the new designs were aligned with Lee's original intent not only because of the client's appreciation for mid-century modern architecture, but also because the house was deemed historical. The Stanford Real Estate Office requires a stringent design review which safeguards the integrity of the community, which Klopf Architecture was happy to oblige going into their updated designs. As with many original mid-century modern homes, the house was scaled to the 1960s lifestyle where rooms were smaller and openings to views were limited and tightly framed. The original conditions defined the direction the family of four would take in updating the house and making it comfortable for their modern lifestyle. Klopf designed a full gut remodel and major addition to bring the house into the 21st century and provide the living area needed for the client's family. The newly expanded house added just about 1,100 sf to create an airy, comfortable and family friendly house, taking full advantage of the beautiful southwestern views that extend out to the hills beyond. The enclosed garage created an additional 240 sf of covered space for long-term storage. A cracked swimming pool created an eyesore taking up a majority of the backyard landscape, so it was one of the first elements to go during the transformation. Working with Outer Space Landscape Architects, the family asked for a mix of relaxing outdoor patio spaces that eventually blend into the native landscaping, extending their views outward toward the natural greenery of the trees beyond their property. Filling in the old pool was a smart way to expand the living spaces outward. The orientation of the house was designed to enjoy the views, but the original architecture provided the first homeowners with mere glimpses of the landscape outside. Klopf was able to broaden those views, continuing and extending on the original architecture to take full advantage of the unobstructed natural views across the rear facade of the house. Small horizontal openings in the primary bedroom and office were replaced with much taller windows that now follow the angled roof line upward, extending across almost all of the facade. We worked with Western Windows, whose designs included an oblique-shaped, operable casement that allowed our design to rise with the slope. A new corner office added to the primary suite, offers a bright and functional work-from-home solution that looks out at the distant views and added natural light from the expanded window configuration that now wraps around the corner. The existing lower level was designed by Lee as a utilitarian space, serving as a wet pool room with a drain in the center of the floor, bathroom, laundry and storage areas. Without the need for a pool room, Klopf was able to convert the area into a much more comfortable and functional living space with a new family room and guest suite. The new spaces enjoy easy access to a new outdoor patio through floor to ceiling, full-width glass sliders. Continuing along the rear facade, a previously exposed deck extending from the living room and hallway provided access to the backyard through a single set of stairs leading toward the side of the house which made sense when the pool was in place. The new deck was re-envisioned as an extension of the main living room and now serves as a second outdoor living room. A new slatted pergola above provides the homeowners welcome relief from the hot afternoon sun. A second set of stairs now creates a better connection to the redesigned lower level. Klopf was able to reconfigure the spaces, extending the living room outward toward the views, where the family now claims it as the heart of the home, spending a large majority of their time outdoors. Back inside, the original wood-burning Malm fireplace was beautifully restored and a gas burner installed to comply with California's strict air standards. It now rests in front of a wall of Heath accent tiles where a dated red brick wall used to stand. A new taller window brings more light and views into the refreshed interior living room. The original glass doors opposite the fireplace were replaced by larger sliders that when fully opened, create a seamless transition to the new outdoor living area so the two spaces feel like one connected space. The original utilitarian kitchen was needlessly tucked into the far back corner and closed-off, out of sight from the living room, so the clients asked Klopf to open it up and expand the kitchen forward so it felt more connected. Today the much larger kitchen is connected to the living area where a short wall with a cutout offers a visual glimpse into the kitchen and a handy pass-through counter for serving guests. A new breakfast nook was also added to create another spot where the family can gather for casual meals. Just outside, a new built-in outdoor grill and prep area extends the kitchen outside and connects to a new outdoor dining spot nestled amongst the trees, taking advantage of the views out back. Klopf was able to expand the other two bedrooms, add a new laundry room and half-bath and convert the carport to an enclosed garage to add more storage areas which was lost when the pool house was converted to the family and guest room. To maintain a historical connection to the original designs, the exterior siding was repeated on all exterior walls, a full-height stained glass window at the front entryway restored, and an interior slatted screen element repeated outside at the exterior entry courtyard and over the new outdoor living room to create a shade trellis. The new house stands proudly and shines against it's new landscaping features, while respecting and expanding on the original intent of Roger Lee's designs epitomizing the comforts of indoor-outdoor living in Northern California. Completion year: 2020 Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, Klara Kevane, Noel Andrade Contractor: ORB Construction, Brendan O'Reilly Structural engineer: Sezen and Moon Landscape architect: Outer space Furnishings and decoration: Urbanism Designs Photographer: Mariko Reed

Custom Gable Patio Cover with Skylights & Heaters | All-Season Outdoor Living in Washington. This custom patio cover project in Washington transforms an open backyard into a comfortable, year-round outdoor living space. Designed as a gable style patio cover with a skillion roof extension, the structure provides expanded coverage and a seamless connection to the home while protecting the space from Pacific Northwest rain and weather. The covered patio features a warm pine soffit ceiling, wrapped posts, and four skylights that bring in natural light while maintaining full overhead protection. Integrated can lighting, dimmer controls, and Bromic heaters create a cozy environment for evening gatherings and cooler seasons, making the space functional in every month of the year. Built with a durable wood frame, composite CertainTeed Landmark roofing, and tied-in gutters and drainage, this custom patio cover is engineered for long-term performance and clean integration with the home’s existing siding and architecture. Thoughtful detailing and finish carpentry ensure the structure looks like a natural extension rather than an add-on. Perfect for covered outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing, this backyard upgrade adds both value and everyday livability.

This project was a refresh of this short term rental for clients who inherited the home from a family member. The goal was to keep some of the eclectic textiles, art and warmth of the home created by the original owner. Many pieces were reused or repurposed to tell the home's story and history. Warm neutral colors and warm woods flow throughout the spaces providing a cozy vibe and connection to the outdoors. Furnishings and decor from different cultures and eras mix together creatively making for a truly unique and personal home.

This expanded backyard deck was constructed as part of a full house renovation in the Kerrisdale neighbourhood of Vancouver. The deck extension created a larger outdoor living area connected directly to the home’s interior spaces, providing a practical setting for family gatherings and outdoor dining. A durable vinyl deck surface was installed to improve weather resistance and long-term maintenance performance. New aluminum guardrails with a wood top rail were added to enhance safety while maintaining a clean, contemporary appearance that complements the surrounding garden landscape. During construction, infrastructure was also prepared for a future outdoor kitchen installation. Water supply, drainage, and gas lines were strategically roughed-in beneath the deck to allow easy integration of cooking and entertainment features in the future.

This project was a refresh of this short term rental for clients who inherited the home from a family member. The goal was to keep some of the eclectic textiles, art and warmth of the home created by the original owner. Many pieces were reused or repurposed to tell the home's story and history. Warm neutral colors and warm woods flow throughout the spaces providing a cozy vibe and connection to the outdoors. Furnishings and decor from different cultures and eras mix together creatively making for a truly unique and personal home.

This guest bedroom renovation in Hollyburn, West Vancouver emphasizes clean proportions and efficient space planning within a compact condo footprint. The simplified layout allows for clear circulation while maintaining visual calm, supported by a soft neutral palette and continuous flooring throughout the suite. The paneled headboard wall introduces subtle architectural depth, while updated wall-mounted lighting provides ambient illumination without occupying valuable surface area. The large window frames surrounding greenery, reinforcing the connection between interior simplicity and the natural setting characteristic of the North Shore. Arani Construction delivers thoughtfully executed condo renovations across West Vancouver, focusing on spatial clarity, finish consistency, and long-term durability.

Custom Gable Patio Cover with Skylights & Heaters | All-Season Outdoor Living in Washington. This custom patio cover project in Washington transforms an open backyard into a comfortable, year-round outdoor living space. Designed as a gable style patio cover with a skillion roof extension, the structure provides expanded coverage and a seamless connection to the home while protecting the space from Pacific Northwest rain and weather. The covered patio features a warm pine soffit ceiling, wrapped posts, and four skylights that bring in natural light while maintaining full overhead protection. Integrated can lighting, dimmer controls, and Bromic heaters create a cozy environment for evening gatherings and cooler seasons, making the space functional in every month of the year. Built with a durable wood frame, composite CertainTeed Landmark roofing, and tied-in gutters and drainage, this custom patio cover is engineered for long-term performance and clean integration with the home’s existing siding and architecture. Thoughtful detailing and finish carpentry ensure the structure looks like a natural extension rather than an add-on. Perfect for covered outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing, this backyard upgrade adds both value and everyday livability.

This project was a refresh of this short term rental for clients who inherited the home from a family member. The goal was to keep some of the eclectic textiles, art and warmth of the home created by the original owner. Many pieces were reused or repurposed to tell the home's story and history. Warm neutral colors and warm woods flow throughout the spaces providing a cozy vibe and connection to the outdoors. Furnishings and decor from different cultures and eras mix together creatively making for a truly unique and personal home.

Custom Gable Patio Cover with Skylights & Heaters | All-Season Outdoor Living in Washington. This custom patio cover project in Washington transforms an open backyard into a comfortable, year-round outdoor living space. Designed as a gable style patio cover with a skillion roof extension, the structure provides expanded coverage and a seamless connection to the home while protecting the space from Pacific Northwest rain and weather. The covered patio features a warm pine soffit ceiling, wrapped posts, and four skylights that bring in natural light while maintaining full overhead protection. Integrated can lighting, dimmer controls, and Bromic heaters create a cozy environment for evening gatherings and cooler seasons, making the space functional in every month of the year. Built with a durable wood frame, composite CertainTeed Landmark roofing, and tied-in gutters and drainage, this custom patio cover is engineered for long-term performance and clean integration with the home’s existing siding and architecture. Thoughtful detailing and finish carpentry ensure the structure looks like a natural extension rather than an add-on. Perfect for covered outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing, this backyard upgrade adds both value and everyday livability.

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.

Custom Gable Patio Cover with Skylights & Heaters | All-Season Outdoor Living in Washington. This custom patio cover project in Washington transforms an open backyard into a comfortable, year-round outdoor living space. Designed as a gable style patio cover with a skillion roof extension, the structure provides expanded coverage and a seamless connection to the home while protecting the space from Pacific Northwest rain and weather. The covered patio features a warm pine soffit ceiling, wrapped posts, and four skylights that bring in natural light while maintaining full overhead protection. Integrated can lighting, dimmer controls, and Bromic heaters create a cozy environment for evening gatherings and cooler seasons, making the space functional in every month of the year. Built with a durable wood frame, composite CertainTeed Landmark roofing, and tied-in gutters and drainage, this custom patio cover is engineered for long-term performance and clean integration with the home’s existing siding and architecture. Thoughtful detailing and finish carpentry ensure the structure looks like a natural extension rather than an add-on. Perfect for covered outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing, this backyard upgrade adds both value and everyday livability.

A compact gust bath was created from the prior 1.5 bath and separate shared shower room. Now guests have their own separate bathroom- compact but functional, bright and warm. This project was a refresh of this short term rental for clients who inherited the home from a family member. The goal was to keep some of the eclectic textiles, art and warmth of the home created by the original owner. Many pieces were reused or repurposed to tell the home's story and history. Warm neutral colors and warm woods flow throughout the spaces providing a cozy vibe and connection to the outdoors. Furnishings and decor from different cultures and eras mix together creatively making for a truly unique and personal home.

Located in Sedona, Arizona, Stargazer Trail was designed as a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering trees and the quiet beauty of Oak Creek. Our client wanted a vacation home that felt warm and welcoming for personal getaways while also offering the durability and low-maintenance features needed for future guests and short-term stays. Rather than reinventing the home's rustic character, we built upon it. Original pine tongue-and-groove ceilings were preserved, while a palette of black, cream, and natural textures introduced a fresh, contemporary contrast. Thoughtfully selected furnishings, durable materials, and an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living create a home that feels connected to its surroundings while offering a comfortable escape in every season.

This luxury open concept living space in the Kingswood neighborhood of Atlanta features expansive floor to ceiling windows, seamless indoor outdoor connectivity, and a refined modern layout designed for everyday comfort and elevated entertaining. Natural light fills the living area, highlighting wide plank hardwood floors, curated material selections, and a balanced flow between the living room, kitchen, and outdoor living spaces. Thoughtful architectural detailing and performance driven planning create a calm, sophisticated environment designed for long term living.

This project was a refresh of this short term rental for clients who inherited the home from a family member. The goal was to keep some of the eclectic textiles, art and warmth of the home created by the original owner. Many pieces were reused or repurposed to tell the home's story and history. Warm neutral colors and warm woods flow throughout the spaces providing a cozy vibe and connection to the outdoors. Furnishings and decor from different cultures and eras mix together creatively making for a truly unique and personal home.

Custom Gable Patio Cover with Skylights & Heaters | All-Season Outdoor Living in Washington. This custom patio cover project in Washington transforms an open backyard into a comfortable, year-round outdoor living space. Designed as a gable style patio cover with a skillion roof extension, the structure provides expanded coverage and a seamless connection to the home while protecting the space from Pacific Northwest rain and weather. The covered patio features a warm pine soffit ceiling, wrapped posts, and four skylights that bring in natural light while maintaining full overhead protection. Integrated can lighting, dimmer controls, and Bromic heaters create a cozy environment for evening gatherings and cooler seasons, making the space functional in every month of the year. Built with a durable wood frame, composite CertainTeed Landmark roofing, and tied-in gutters and drainage, this custom patio cover is engineered for long-term performance and clean integration with the home’s existing siding and architecture. Thoughtful detailing and finish carpentry ensure the structure looks like a natural extension rather than an add-on. Perfect for covered outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing, this backyard upgrade adds both value and everyday livability.

Located in Sedona, Arizona, Stargazer Trail was designed as a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering trees and the quiet beauty of Oak Creek. Our client wanted a vacation home that felt warm and welcoming for personal getaways while also offering the durability and low-maintenance features needed for future guests and short-term stays. Rather than reinventing the home's rustic character, we built upon it. Original pine tongue-and-groove ceilings were preserved, while a palette of black, cream, and natural textures introduced a fresh, contemporary contrast. Thoughtfully selected furnishings, durable materials, and an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living create a home that feels connected to its surroundings while offering a comfortable escape in every season.