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Designed By: Sarah Buehlman
Marc and Mandy Maister were clients and fans of Cantoni before they purchased this harbor home on Balboa Island. The South African natives originally met designer Sarah Buehlman and Cantoni’s Founder and CEO Michael Wilkov at a storewide sale, and quickly established a relationship as they bought furnishings for their primary residence in Newport Beach.
So, when the couple decided to invest in this gorgeous second home, in one of the ritziest enclaves in North America, they sought Sarah’s help in transforming the outdated 1960’s residence into a modern marvel. “It’s now the ultimate beach house,” says Sarah, “and finished in Cantoni from top to bottom—including new custom cabinetry installed throughout.”
But let’s back up. This project began when Mandy contacted Sarah in the midst of the remodel process (in December 2010), asking if she could come take a look and help with the overall design.
“The plans were being drawn up with an architect, and they opted not to move anything major. Instead, they updated everything—as in the small carpeted staircase that became a gorgeous glass and metal sculpture,” Sarah explains. She took photographs and measurements, and then set to work creating the scaled renderings. “Marc and Mandy were drawn to the One and Only Collection. It features a high-gloss brown and white color scheme which served as inspiration for the project,” says Sarah.
Primary pieces in the expansive living area include the Mondrian leather sectional, the Involution sculpture, and a pair of Vladimir Kagan Corkscrew swivel chairs. The Maisters needed a place to house all their electronics but didn’t want a typical entertainment center. The One and Only buffet was actually modified by our skilled shop technicians, in our distribution center, so it could accommodate all the couple’s media equipment. “These artisans are another one of our hidden strengths—in addition to the design tools, inventory and extensive resources we have to get a job done,” adds Sarah. Marc and Mandy also fell in love with the exotic Makassar ebony wood in the Ritz Collection, which Sarah combined in the master bedroom with the Ravenna double chaise to provide an extra place to sit and enjoy the beautiful harbor views.
Beyond new furnishings, the Maisters also decided to completely redo their kitchen. And though Marc and Mandy did not have a chance to actually see our kitchen displays, having worked with Sarah over the years, they had immense trust in our commitment to craftsmanship and quality. In fact, they opted for new cabinetry in four bathrooms as well as the laundry room based on our 3D renderings and lacquer samples alone—without ever opening a drawer. “Their trust in my expertise and Cantoni’s reputation were a major deciding factor,” says Sarah.
This plush second home, complete with a private boat dock right out back, counts as one of Sarah’s proudest accomplishments. “These long-time clients are great. They love Cantoni and appreciate high quality Italian furnishings in particular. The home is so gorgeous that once you are inside and open the Nano doors, you simply don’t want to leave.” The job took almost two years to complete, but everyone seems quite happy with the results, proving that large or small—and in cases necessitating a quick turnaround or execution of a long-term vision—Cantoni has the resources to come through for all clients.

An elegant modern kitchen that is as stylish and exciting to cook in as it is beautiful. Not only does the cabinet provides storage space, but it is functional and durable. Due to the amazing capabilities of LEICHT Kitchens we can adapt and fit our cabinets into any space with no trouble!
Photo Credits: Alex UA Photography

Crystal Imagery provided custom personalized barware that is deeply carved using our unique sand-carving method. This method produces a 3D, deep-relief finish that can't be matched by engraved or etched glassware producers. Choose from crystal barware including whiskey, bourbon, scotch, wine, beer and cocktail glasses. Choose from our monograms or allow us to carve your own logo or artwork into the glass.
Find the right local pro for your project

A backyard patio and brick bbq create a beautiful and social space for the family living in this home we remodeled.
Example of a mid-sized trendy backyard brick patio design in Seattle
Example of a mid-sized trendy backyard brick patio design in Seattle

Crystal Imagery provided custom personalized barware that is deeply carved using our unique sand-carving method. This method produces a 3D, deep-relief finish that can't be matched by engraved or etched glassware producers. Choose from crystal barware including whiskey, bourbon, scotch, wine, beer and cocktail glasses. Choose from our monograms or allow us to carve your own logo or artwork into the glass.

In the realm of kitchen and bathroom renovations, Covossi Solid Surface Countertops emerge as a superior choice for both residential and commercial applications, offering an unparalleled blend of durability, practicality, and cost efficiency. Designed to meet the demands of modern living, these countertops are an epitome of innovation and style, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance without compromising on aesthetics.
Unmatched Durability
Constructed with a top layer of ¼ inch solid polyester resin and supported by a robust 1¼ inch chipboard core, Covossi Solid Surface Countertops are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use. This unique composition offers exceptional resistance to stains, scratches, liquids, and impacts, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
Aesthetic Versatility
One of the most compelling attributes of Covossi Solid Surface Countertops is the color consistency throughout the material. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of the countertops but also allows for easy repair of minor scratches. Damages can be effortlessly sanded out and polished, restoring the countertop to its original splendor. The material's seamless design further contributes to its aesthetic appeal, providing a sleek and unified look that elevates any space.
Seamless and Hygienic
The innovative seamless design of Covossi Solid Surface Countertops is not just about aesthetics; it also plays a crucial role in maintaining hygiene. By allowing the material to be sanded and joined in a way that cracks are virtually non-existent, it eliminates the collection of dirt and debris, making it an exceptionally hygienic option for kitchens and bathrooms.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
Designed with practicality in mind, these countertops can be easily installed by a 1-2 person team using commonly used tools, making it a convenient choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers. The finished product exudes the luxury and sophistication of an expensive solid surface, without the hefty price tag.
Warranty and Certification
Covossi Solid Surfaces come with an 8-year Manufacturer Limited Warranty, offering peace of mind and assurance of quality. Additionally, being NSF Certified, these countertops meet strict standards for public health protection, further reinforcing their suitability for both residential and commercial settings.
In conclusion, Covossi Solid Surface Countertops stand out as a smart investment for those seeking a blend of functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Whether for a home kitchen, bathroom, or a commercial space, these countertops promise to deliver performance and style that lasts.

Designed By: Sarah Buehlman
Marc and Mandy Maister were clients and fans of Cantoni before they purchased this harbor home on Balboa Island. The South African natives originally met designer Sarah Buehlman and Cantoni’s Founder and CEO Michael Wilkov at a storewide sale, and quickly established a relationship as they bought furnishings for their primary residence in Newport Beach.
So, when the couple decided to invest in this gorgeous second home, in one of the ritziest enclaves in North America, they sought Sarah’s help in transforming the outdated 1960’s residence into a modern marvel. “It’s now the ultimate beach house,” says Sarah, “and finished in Cantoni from top to bottom—including new custom cabinetry installed throughout.”
But let’s back up. This project began when Mandy contacted Sarah in the midst of the remodel process (in December 2010), asking if she could come take a look and help with the overall design.
“The plans were being drawn up with an architect, and they opted not to move anything major. Instead, they updated everything—as in the small carpeted staircase that became a gorgeous glass and metal sculpture,” Sarah explains. She took photographs and measurements, and then set to work creating the scaled renderings. “Marc and Mandy were drawn to the One and Only Collection. It features a high-gloss brown and white color scheme which served as inspiration for the project,” says Sarah.
Primary pieces in the expansive living area include the Mondrian leather sectional, the Involution sculpture, and a pair of Vladimir Kagan Corkscrew swivel chairs. The Maisters needed a place to house all their electronics but didn’t want a typical entertainment center. The One and Only buffet was actually modified by our skilled shop technicians, in our distribution center, so it could accommodate all the couple’s media equipment. “These artisans are another one of our hidden strengths—in addition to the design tools, inventory and extensive resources we have to get a job done,” adds Sarah. Marc and Mandy also fell in love with the exotic Makassar ebony wood in the Ritz Collection, which Sarah combined in the master bedroom with the Ravenna double chaise to provide an extra place to sit and enjoy the beautiful harbor views.
Beyond new furnishings, the Maisters also decided to completely redo their kitchen. And though Marc and Mandy did not have a chance to actually see our kitchen displays, having worked with Sarah over the years, they had immense trust in our commitment to craftsmanship and quality. In fact, they opted for new cabinetry in four bathrooms as well as the laundry room based on our 3D renderings and lacquer samples alone—without ever opening a drawer. “Their trust in my expertise and Cantoni’s reputation were a major deciding factor,” says Sarah.
This plush second home, complete with a private boat dock right out back, counts as one of Sarah’s proudest accomplishments. “These long-time clients are great. They love Cantoni and appreciate high quality Italian furnishings in particular. The home is so gorgeous that once you are inside and open the Nano doors, you simply don’t want to leave.” The job took almost two years to complete, but everyone seems quite happy with the results, proving that large or small—and in cases necessitating a quick turnaround or execution of a long-term vision—Cantoni has the resources to come through for all clients.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Snider & Metcalf Interior Design, LTD
Leading Interior Designers in Columbus, Ohio & Ponte Vedra, Florida

The Storboss Steel Storage Chest from Arrow Sheds offer over all protection for your toys, tools, patio accessories and much more:
Features:
- HDG STEEL™ - hot dipped galvanized steel provides superior corrosion resistance and protects against rot, insects, and extreme weather conditions
- 135 dry gallons / 21 cu. ft. of storage space is perfect for storing deck/patio accessories, cushions, garden supplies, pool accessories, sports equipment, outdoor gear, and more
- Built-in floor keeps items dry and secure
- With off-set hinges, lid stays open at most angles for safety and convenience
- Locking system for tamper and theft resistant storage
- Appealing two tone aesthetics in Chocolate and Vanilla to complement outdoor settings
- DIY assembly with pre-cut and pre-drilled parts
- 10 year limited warranty

In What Order Should You Renovate a Kitchen? Revolutionizing Kitchen and Bath Renovation with Allreno's Design AI
Renovating a kitchen can be one of the most exciting and rewarding home improvement projects. However, with so many decisions to make, it can also be overwhelming. From selecting kitchen cabinets to choosing countertops and appliances, the process often involves careful planning and organization. So, how do you ensure the renovation goes smoothly? One important factor is knowing the right order in which to tackle the project.
The Right Order for Kitchen Renovation
Renovating a kitchen involves multiple steps, and knowing the proper order of operations is crucial for both time efficiency and cost savings. Here’s a general guideline for how to approach your kitchen renovation:
1. Planning and Design: The first step in any renovation is planning. This includes deciding on the layout, design, and features you want in your kitchen. At this stage, you’ll also need to think about your budget and timeline. It’s essential to finalize these details before moving forward with the actual work.
2. Demolition: Once the design is set, it’s time to remove old fixtures, cabinets, appliances, and flooring. Demolition can be a messy process, but it’s necessary for starting fresh. Having a professional handle this phase is often a smart move to ensure everything is safely removed.
3. Structural Work: If you plan on altering the layout of the kitchen by knocking down walls or adding new plumbing or electrical work, now is the time to do it. Structural changes can be complicated and costly, so it’s important to ensure these are completed before installing any new elements.
4. Plumbing and Electrical Work: With the structure in place, you can begin installing plumbing and electrical systems. This might include adding new water lines, sinks, or electrical outlets for appliances. It’s best to bring in licensed professionals for this stage, as electrical and plumbing work requires expert knowledge.
5. Cabinet Installation: Once the plumbing and electrical work are in place, you can install the kitchen cabinets. Cabinets are one of the most important elements of the kitchen, and the Allreno design AI can make this process easier. Allreno's AI-driven platform allows you to visualize how different kitchen cabinets will fit into your space, ensuring you make the best choice based on your preferences and layout.
6. Countertops: After the cabinets are installed, it’s time to add countertops. Whether you choose granite, quartz, or a more budget-friendly option, countertops are a focal point of the kitchen, and they should complement the cabinets and other design elements.
7. Flooring: Now that the major structural elements are in place, it’s time to install your flooring. Whether you opt for tile, hardwood, or vinyl, flooring should be installed after the cabinets and countertops to prevent any damage during the installation process.
8. Appliances and Fixtures: With the foundation in place, you can now add your appliances (oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, etc.) and fixtures (sink, faucets, lighting). Allreno’s AI can also help here by offering kitchen design recommendations based on available appliances and space dimensions.
9. Final Touches: The last step is adding the finishing touches to your kitchen. This includes painting the walls, adding backsplash tiles, and installing accessories like handles and knobs on your cabinets. This is also the stage where you can implement any stylistic choices to make the space uniquely yours.
How Allreno's AI Transforms the Renovation Process
One of the biggest challenges of a kitchen renovation is visualizing how everything will come together. Allreno’s design AI changes that by offering an intuitive platform that brings your ideas to life. Here’s how:
• Personalized Design Recommendations: Allreno’s AI suggests design elements based on your preferences, style, and space dimensions. Whether it’s selecting the perfect kitchen cabinets or countertop finishes, the AI ensures everything works together cohesively.
• 3D Visualization: With Allreno’s AI-driven design tools, you can visualize your kitchen layout in 3D before any work begins. This allows you to see how different elements will fit into your space and make adjustments as needed.
• Efficient Project Management: Allreno helps you streamline the entire renovation process by generating accurate material lists, estimates, and timelines. This means you can avoid costly errors and keep your renovation on track.
Conclusion
Renovating a kitchen is an exciting project, but it requires careful planning and organization to ensure it’s done right. By following a strategic order of operations and leveraging cutting-edge technology like Allreno’s design AI, homeowners can streamline the process, save time and money, and bring their dream kitchen to life with ease. Allreno not only simplifies the design process but also provides innovative solutions that make kitchen and bath renovations faster and more efficient than ever before.
Ready to get started with your kitchen renovation? Allreno's AI-powered design platform is here to help you every step of the way.

This custom kitchen remodel in Jarrettsville was thoughtfully designed to combine timeless style with highly functional storage solutions that make everyday living easier. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, decorative tilework, and warm hickory flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the space, adding natural warmth and character. A contrasting blue island creates a beautiful focal point while adding additional workspace, storage, and seating to the heart of the kitchen.
A hidden walk-in pantry cabinet is seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry wall, providing generous storage while maintaining a clean, built-in appearance. Adjacent to the range, a pull-out utensil holder keeps cooking tools organized and within easy reach. A hidden roll-out cabinet neatly stores a folding step stool for convenient access to upper cabinets. The kitchen also includes a lift-up appliance drawer designed to raise heavy countertop appliances, such as a KitchenAid mixer, to working height with ease, helping reduce lifting and countertop clutter. Around the corner, floating shelves framed by full-height decorative tile create an elegant display area that adds both storage and visual interest to the space. Thoughtful details like crown molding, layered finishes, and custom storage features make this kitchen both beautiful and exceptionally practical for daily life.

Thermador Professional Suite: The Peak of Culinary Integration
A high-end custom build is only as good as its components. This gourmet kitchen is anchored by a complete suite of Thermador professional appliances, engineered for homeowners who demand peak performance alongside artisan aesthetics. We meticulously framed each unit to ensure a flush, "furniture-grade" fit that complements the natural knotty-wood cabinetry.
Premium Tech & Installation Highlights:
Professional Induction Cooktop & Island Hood: The central island features a high-efficiency Thermador induction cooktop, paired with a heavy-duty stainless steel island hood. This setup provides rapid, precise temperature control and powerful ventilation without obstructing the open-concept sightlines.
Integrated Refrigeration Columns: A massive, built-in Thermador refrigerator and freezer suite is seamlessly recessed into the custom millwork, offering a sleek, industrial contrast to the warm timber tones of the surrounding cabinetry.
Masterpiece Series Wall Ovens: The stainless steel double wall ovens are positioned at the optimal height for ergonomic use, featuring professional-grade convection technology for consistent results in a high-volume kitchen.
Hidden Efficiency: The installation includes an integrated Thermador dishwasher and a built-in microwave drawer, ensuring that every tool is within reach while maintaining the clean architectural lines of the space.

Choosing to abandon uniformity in your kitchen can be a great choice if you're looking to opt out of a monochrome aesthetic. Two-toned kitchen cabinets add visual interest and contrast while drawing focus to different features within the space. Designs utilizing two-toned cabinets have become very popular in recent years and it's not a trend that will be fading out any time soon.
Our clients opted for a combination of Earl Grey and Macchiato Classic cabinetry in their two-toned kitchen. The large island with its second faucet, sink, microwave drawer and lower storage is the focal point of the room and a great work surface for food prep and entertaining. A vertical pull out PowerDock was installed into the top of the island for plugging in kitchen tools, phones and laptops. Dolomite Marble subway tile and Brunello quartz countertops brighten up the kitchen and balance out the tone of the cabinets creating a light and airy feel. The addition of contrasting touches such as the Honey Bronze, Flat Black hardware and Champaign Bronze faucets, accessories the room beautifully. The subdued and sophisticated style of this two-toned kitchen is exquisite and shows the various ways that two-tone cabinets can be versatile and appealing.
Some of the other areas that were remodeled in this home included the complete overhaul of the existing stair well, a guest bath and laundry area.
The guest bath has beautiful vanity cabinets in Celest finish, Monochrome Lotus Deco tile and very reflective Midnight Dots in the shower floor and niche. The combination of all three give a striking white, blue and black design that will inspire and show that you can use pattern and texture in small spaces. A twenty four inch wall mounted shower seat can be lifted and secured when in use and tucked away to allow access out of the shower. A pocket door from the guest bathroom provides a second access point to the hallway with the laundry that has also been revamped with the same style and finish of cabinetry.

Our journey continues from last week where we began in the spa-like bathroom, around the curved wood slat wall, past the ample closet storage section to a showstopper of a space: a glass enclosed wine room. The sophisticated space elegantly displays a fine wine and whiskey collection on grooved, backlit floating shelves. These shelves provide both functionality and an upscale aesthetic, perfectly aligned with the room’s Mid-Century Modern design influence. The sleek black floor tiles echo those in the nearby bathroom, creating a sense of flow and visual contrast within the overall space. Natural wood slats from the shower and sauna areas continue into the wine room, adding warmth and texture to the modern, sleek lines. The glass enclosures complement similar features in the bathroom, maintaining a cohesive design language throughout the basement. The use of natural materials, clean lines, and thoughtful lighting makes this wine room not only a visual highlight but also a practical space for storage and display. With its refined aesthetic, this wine room is designed with luxury and practicality in mind, and is more than a storage solution—it’s a statement. Our homeowners are so pleased we could create a high-end, timeless space for them to enjoy for many years to come. Next week we will focus on the family entertainment area of the basement remodel. Keep following for more inspiration!

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Free consultation for landscape design!
Peabody Landscape Group
Columbus' Reliable Landscape Design & Contracting

Amy Troute Inspired Interior Design partnered with the Woodhill Homes and Sunriver build teams in 2022 to curate two interior finish packages and the exterior palette for Forestbrook, a stunning master planned vacation rental neighborhood within Central Oregon’s Caldera Springs community. The property, nestled among towering Ponderosa pines, will eventually welcome over 70 customized vacation homes. Our High Desert Retreat is our first fully furnished Forestbrook home - a getaway for our clients and their family and a year-round vacation rental. The owners call Arizona home, and that warm desert palette inspired the aesthetic of their new retreat. Area rugs with rich earth tones ground each space and provide color and texture for bedding, artwork and upholstery. The great room windows are the signature of each Forestbrook home, and our furnishings pull the greens and rusts from the landscape, drawing you in. The kitchen’s warm woods and classic surfaces welcome the family chef, and inside those cabinets is every utensil, plate, pot, pan, and tool they’ll ever need. The primary and main guest bedrooms are outfitted with luxurious layers of bedding that are easy to clean and turn over between stays. The upstairs bonus space welcomes kids of all ages with four adult-friendly bunk beds and a queen sofa bed. Chess anyone? Forestbrook homes each offer an efficient, yet fully outfitted ADU that can be rented separately or with the rest of the home. With a king bed, desk, comfortable sofa, well equipped kitchenette, and dining space, guests will feel right at home! We look forward to furnishing many of these Forestbrook homes, each inspired by the owners and the beauty of the natural scenery out every window!
Photography by Chris Murray Productions

A key component of the Scope 700 grate and the 1000SS and 1000DB firebox inserts, the elongated, stainless steel XL700 ethanol burner has also provided design inspiration for a myriad of custom-made fires – both indoors and out.
Its sleek lines and minimal zero clearance creation ensure it’s a principal design tool, rather than an afterthought.

This is a gourmet kitchen that is both highly functional and stunningly pleasing, designed for the frequent entertaining of a large extended family. The kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and technology, offering exceptional features and superior performance. It is designed with efficiency in mind, providing ample space, top-quality tools, and excellent organization to allow a dedicated culinary practitioner to create well-executed gastronomic experiences.
We won the "Best International Kitchen Design Award" which is a highly coveted award judged in part by members of the Lords of London from the esteemed International Property Awards. We won this award by first winning the "Best in Maryland" at the America Property Awards, followed by winning the Americas Property Awards for "Best in the USA," and then finally the International Property Awards for "Best in the Americas," which includes North, Central, and South America. We are humbled and ecstatic to have received this prestigious honor!

A red door marks the entry to the house. The foyer floor is covered with terracotta tiles to protect the wood from dirt and water. Two closets on either side provide plenty of space for jackets, boots, and tools

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

The high-performance heat and superior design of this wood fireplace insert are truly out of the ordinary. Our exclusive flush-to-the fireplace design enhances the beautiful lines of a traditional fire place and provides modern heating efficiency. The huge view of the fire through our large, single rectangular door remains clear thanks to our air wash system. The Flush Wood Plus Arched wood insert also features a variable speed, high volume blower which can utilize the hard-wiring option kit to preserve the classic good looks of your existing fireplace without a power cord showing on the hearth. Heat a room or a home up to 2,000 square feet with less wood and longer burn times. The Flush Wood Plus Arched is designed to be installed in both masonry and zero clearance wood burning fireplaces.

The Storboss Steel Storage Chest from Arrow Sheds offer over all protection for your toys, tools, patio accessories and much more:
Features:
- HDG STEEL™ - hot dipped galvanized steel provides superior corrosion resistance and protects against rot, insects, and extreme weather conditions
- 135 dry gallons / 21 cu. ft. of storage space is perfect for storing deck/patio accessories, cushions, garden supplies, pool accessories, sports equipment, outdoor gear, and more
- Built-in floor keeps items dry and secure
- With off-set hinges, lid stays open at most angles for safety and convenience
- Locking system for tamper and theft resistant storage
- Appealing two tone aesthetics in Chocolate and Vanilla to complement outdoor settings
- DIY assembly with pre-cut and pre-drilled parts
- 10 year limited warranty

Built for the Bluff, A Sea Ranch Home is Remade from the Inside Out
The house had always been grounded, on an ocean bluff at The Sea Ranch. It sits unencumbered, adjacent to one of the most dramatic stretches of the Sonoma coast with protected commons meadow to the east, uninterrupted Pacific views to the west, and a bluff trail running alongside. What it lacked was the feeling of home, one that could hold up its own against the natural landscape.
The owners are entrepreneurs with deep involvement across tech, real estate, and development and they know how things are built. The Sea Ranch house had been in their lives for years, a second residence and a place for family to gather. Built for a different time, it felt more compromising than comfortable. Sitting in a closed off nook, the kitchen fit one cook at a time and turned its back on the rest of the house. The entry was dim and compressed, divided by a structural column that presented itself at exactly the wrong moment. The primary suite was small relative to the view outside it. A large rear bedroom sat behind a lowered ceiling with a bathroom that had never been added. The house was certainly worth the trouble of doing it right.
What followed was not one project but four, each with its own design challenge, each addressed over a period of time.
Where the House Meets the Ocean
The most complex piece of the project, in both structural and spatial terms, was the kitchen expansion. The existing room was a single-person galley squeezed in as an afterthought with no meaningful connection to the dining room, the living space, or the deck outside. To make it useful for a family that cooks and gathers, it needed to grow outward into an existing patio and flow into the rooms around it.
A big challenge was the roofline. Several planes at different pitches and angles converged directly where additional volume was needed. A new form had to join that geometry without reading as a correction. The solution found the simplest possible connection between the existing angles, a roofline that from outside the structure, appears entirely original. From the bluff trail where the addition is visible, there is no discernible seam.
Inside, the kitchen is now open to the living and dining rooms without interruption. A large sliding glass door connects the space onto the rear deck. The deck itself was expanded and oriented so that the body of the house shields it from the coastal wind which is a common consideration that determines whether outdoor space at The Sea Ranch actually gets used. The result is a room that works for large family gatherings where no one feels cutoff, and one that makes the boundary between being inside and outside easy to ignore.
Welcoming Light
A structural column stood at the convergence of eight distinct roof planes in the entry. It was load-bearing, but it was also the reason the entry had always felt like a hallway rather than a welcoming arrival.
With the structural engineer, a custom steel connector was designed to receive beams from six separate directions, redistributing the load through a single new continuous beam. The column was surgically removed. Three triangular skylights were then cut into the roof above, their shapes drawn from the
existing geometry of the planes around them. The entry is now bright and open. The skylights feel native to the structure because they follow the logic already present in the roof.
Two Suites, Two Views
At opposite ends of the house, the two bedroom suites were each reconfigured, and each found a different way to introduce more of the landscape into the room.
An addition to the primary suite extended the structure outward to create a wraparound plan with a loop from the bedroom through bath and closet that had not been possible before. The expansion opened a slot view from the tub and shower toward the ocean. The view is precise and private. The ocean view is present and deliberate.
The rear bedroom absorbed an adjacent storage room to transform it into a full second suite with a vaulted ceiling, a large bathroom with a tub, a shower, and a sauna. A private fenced garden courtyard sits just beyond the glass bringing the outdoors inside. The tub was placed so that, looking past the courtyard and through the bedroom beyond, the ocean is visible at the far end. It is a long view and it makes the room feel larger and more settled than its footprint would suggest.
Glass on Four Sides, Fire at the Center
The main living and gathering room had always been caught between two competing facts: glass on four sides meant exceptional views but at The Sea Ranch, it also meant a cold room. A 360-degree cylindrical fireplace was added at the center on a raised stone base, providing radiant heat in every direction and giving the room a focal point around which a group naturally orients itself, whether that means two people at the end of the day or the whole family after dinner.
Owners Who Picked Up the Tools
The owner was not a passive client. they came with construction knowledge, specific ideas, and the desire to be an active part of the process, a dynamic that other architects may had found difficult, which Klopf Architecture accepted as an asset. They took it upon themselves to complete some of the work during construction, including the installation of a new radiant heating system beneath the floors.
The radiant system added to the older and less-desirable forced-air setup. At The Sea Ranch, that change matters as the house sits close enough to the ocean and moving air competes with the sound of it, where radiant heat does not. Solar panels were added to the roof as part of the new system. Insulation was upgraded throughout the walls, roof, and crawl space. The house that had always had the right setting now holds warmth the way a house on the bluff should.
They were also deeply involved in the design and selections throughout, and the finished house reflects both of them in ways that are specific rather than generic. The process took longer and moved through more iterations than a more arms-length relationship might have allowed. The result is more defined and personal because of it.
The Landscape Holds Priority
Every exterior decision was shaped by The Sea Ranch Design Standards, which require that buildings defer to the landscape around them rather than compete with it. Because this house sits on the bluff and is visible from the public trail, the additions faced a close review. Existing materials were matched. Geometries were resolved. The additions had to become indistinguishable from the original building.
From the trail, the house reads exactly as it always has — low, cedar-clad, secondary to the meadow and the water. The setting holds priority. Inside, the house has been remade.
Klopf Architecture Project Team: Geoff Campen and Trenton Jewett
Contractor: Shawn Bettega Construction
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023
Location: The Sea Ranch, CA
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