This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

In the modern digital era, clear communication and seamless collaboration are essential for every type of organization. High-quality Audio-Video (AV) systems have become a key factor in creating efficient, interactive, and engaging environments. Media K Solutions provides expert AV integration services that are carefully designed to meet the needs of businesses, educational institutions, entertainment venues, and public spaces. The company’s approach focuses on delivering complete solutions rather than simple equipment installations. Their team collaborates closely with each client to design systems that are not only functional but also scalable and adaptable to future technological advancements. Every project is built to improve productivity, enhance user experience, and simplify daily operations. Media K Solutions specializes in a wide range of AV integration services, including: Installation of high-performance audio, video, and control systems that deliver exceptional clarity and reliability. Designing flexible AV configurations that can grow with the organization and adapt to evolving requirements. Integrating new technologies with existing systems to maximize compatibility and protect prior investments. Offering continuous maintenance and technical support to ensure long-term performance and system stability. Through these carefully implemented solutions, Media K Solutions helps organizations create connected spaces that inspire collaboration, learning, and creativity. Whether setting up a conference room, classroom, auditorium, or entertainment facility, their expertise ensures smooth functionality and lasting quality. For more information about their full range of services and project examples, visit their official website: https://mediaksolutions.com

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.

Two large sliding glass doors open up completely, allowing the living and dining space to extend to the deck outside. Photographer: Aaron Leitz
Mid-sized minimalist open concept light wood floor living room photo in Seattle with white walls

Professional Toilet Repair Service You Can Trust ?️ At Handyman Expert, we recently completed a toilet repair in Dunwoody, GA, restoring comfort and functionality to our client’s bathroom. The toilet was loose and leaking from the base, causing both inconvenience and water damage. Our skilled technicians carefully removed the toilet, cleaned the tile area and the drain opening, and replaced the old wax seal with a new, durable sealing system to ensure a perfect fit and watertight connection. Once the area was fully prepared, we reinstalled the toilet, securely anchoring it to the floor with reinforced metal brackets for long-term stability. The result? A completely fixed, sturdy toilet that no longer leaks or wobbles — leaving the bathroom clean, safe, and fresh once again. Reliable Bathroom Plumbing Solutions in Dunwoody ? This toilet repair project in Dunwoody, GA is another example of our dedication to high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether it’s a simple repair or a full bathroom renovation, our team delivers precise, reliable, and lasting results every time. If you’re experiencing leaks, unstable fixtures, or any other plumbing issues — don’t wait! Contact Handyman Expert today for fast, professional, and affordable repair services that keep your home running smoothly. Project Highlights: ? ✅ Location: Dunwoody, GA ✅ Service: Toilet repair & leak fix ✅ Duration: 1 day ✅ Result: Stable and leak-free toilet installation

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This open-plan lower-level living area combines versatility with understated modern design. The wide, unobstructed floor space allows for flexible use—whether as a family entertainment area, guest suite, or multi-purpose gathering zone. The cool-toned wall color contrasts subtly with the warmth of the flooring, creating a balanced and inviting palette. At one end, a streamlined kitchenette offers the essentials without overwhelming the room's openness. This integration makes the space perfect for long-term guests or independent living, without compromising the home's cohesive design language. Ample recessed lighting ensures the room is bright and functional throughout the day, while the placement of windows maximizes available natural light. The result is a space that feels connected to the rest of the home but retains a sense of privacy. With its clean lines, durable finishes, and adaptable layout, this lower level exemplifies how thoughtful design can turn even secondary spaces into beautiful, functional parts of daily life.

Harbor Vantage at Merry Wood Manor was thoughtfully designed to blend timeless Northwest architecture with modern family living. From the moment you arrive, the home balances warmth, scale, and craftsmanship through natural textures, dramatic rooflines, and inviting outdoor spaces that feel connected to the surrounding landscape. Inside, the home was carefully tailored around the homeowners’ vision and lifestyle, creating spaces that feel both elevated and comfortable for everyday living. Expansive gathering areas, custom detailing, and intentional sightlines make the home ideal for entertaining while still feeling warm and personal. Every aspect of the project reflects a collaborative design process focused on functionality, beauty, and long-term livability. At Pacific Home Source, we believe great design comes from listening closely to our clients and helping guide them through the process with creativity, transparency, and experience. The result is a home that not only looks stunning, but truly feels like it was built specifically for the family who lives there.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

This completed backyard transformation in Toronto showcases a modern outdoor living space designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Blending contemporary and natural elements, the project features a custom-built wood pergola that anchors the space while adding architectural interest and filtered shade. The clean lines of the structure are complemented by warm wood tones, creating a welcoming and timeless aesthetic. Expert craftsmanship is evident in the precision joinery of the pergola and the seamless installation of large-format concrete pavers that form the patio surface. Durable, weather-resistant materials were carefully selected to withstand Toronto’s seasonal climate, including pressure-treated lumber, high-performance fasteners, and premium outdoor finishes that enhance longevity while maintaining visual appeal. The layout was thoughtfully planned to maximize functionality within the backyard footprint. Defined zones for dining and lounging provide versatility, with a spacious outdoor dining set positioned beneath the pergola and a separate seating area for casual gatherings. Integrated greenery, privacy fencing, and layered landscaping contribute to a tranquil, enclosed atmosphere while maintaining a connection to nature. For the homeowners, this outdoor upgrade delivers a significant lifestyle enhancement—offering a private retreat for everyday use and an inviting space for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance materials, improved durability, and smart spatial design ensure long-term value, comfort, and ease of upkeep. This project perfectly captures the essence of modern backyard design in Toronto—stylish, functional, and built to last.

These clients have been long term homeowners, and their backyard had seen the wear and tear while raising their family. With the kids grown and spending less and less time at home, it became clear a revamp to the yard, and new outdoor living space was mandatory so they could once again enjoy the outdoors and entertain with friends and family. The JRP team got to work, putting together ideas of what this entertaining outdoor space could be. A new roof structure complete with lights, fans, and ceiling mounted electric heaters was a must. A new Bifold door was installed to create an open flow from the house into the outdoor space. The new TV and fireplace setup establishes a perfect setting for outdoor living by providing the warmth you need on cool nights, and ambiance in the summer. An outdoor BBQ area was added for food prep and cooking while staying connected to the party. The end result created the perfect outdoor addition that can be enjoyed year-round!

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

Large zen bamboo floor and beige floor great room photo with a two-sided fireplace and a concrete fireplace

Based on her experience with several renovation projects, the owner reflects that “renovations always take longer and cost more than what you first think. That’s just the reality of renovations. You’re going to find stuff along the way. You learn to prepare for that. Having said that, there weren’t really any surprises with this project.” She also appreciates the collaborative approach that Way-Mar brings to a project. “Way-Mar always gives options and explains the differences - taking into consideration your personal preferences and priorities.” Early on with this home, the owners worked with different contractors and got several quotes to help choose the best company. She says they learned the “hard way” that not all contractors are the same. A few times it looked like a good job was done on the surface but things were done poorly or incorrectly and had to be redone. The couple feels fortunate to have connected with Way-Mar early on.“Way-Mar stands out in their commitment to customer service and quality. That’s worth a lot. We have built up a lot of trust over the years so we are never concerned that we are getting ripped off or if the work will be done right. I feel they always offer a fair price and we get excellent value for our money.” “We’ve built a good long-term relationship so they know us pretty well. Way-Mar makes suggestions based on what they think is most suitable for us. We’re always happy with the results.” photo: jeff brubacher

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.

A young family with a wooded, triangular lot in Ipswich, Massachusetts wanted to take on a highly creative, organic, and unrushed process in designing their new home. The parents of three boys had contemporary ideas for living, including phasing the construction of different structures over time as the kids grew so they could maximize the options for use on their land. They hoped to build a net zero energy home that would be cozy on the very coldest days of winter, using cost-efficient methods of home building. The house needed to be sited to minimize impact on the land and trees, and it was critical to respect a conservation easement on the south border of the lot. Finally, the design would be contemporary in form and feel, but it would also need to fit into a classic New England context, both in terms of materials used and durability. We were asked to honor the notions of “surprise and delight,” and that inspired everything we designed for the family. The highly unique home consists of a three-story form, composed mostly of bedrooms and baths on the top two floors and a cross axis of shared living spaces on the first level. This axis extends out to an oversized covered porch, open to the south and west. The porch connects to a two-story garage with flex space above, used as a guest house, play room, and yoga studio depending on the day. A floor-to-ceiling ribbon of glass wraps the south and west walls of the lower level, bringing in an abundance of natural light and linking the entire open plan to the yard beyond. The master suite takes up the entire top floor, and includes an outdoor deck with a shower. The middle floor has extra height to accommodate a variety of multi-level play scenarios in the kids’ rooms. Many of the materials used in this house are made from recycled or environmentally friendly content, or they come from local sources. The high performance home has triple glazed windows and all materials, adhesives, and sealants are low toxicity and safe for growing kids. Photographer credit: Irvin Serrano

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.

Inspiration for a large wooden and master straight wood railing, carpeted and white floor bedroom remodel with wooden risers, white walls, a standard fireplace and a concrete fireplace