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Wayne Suggs
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The color scheme of the inside of the house has translated to the outside living spaces with accents of turquoise and blues. Photography: Claudia Uribe

This collaboration was with a return client, who wanted to completely restore and renovate her over 100-year-old Victorian. It was key for the homeowner maintained the original footprint of the home with full front to back views of the sound. A contemporary vision translated into slab doors in a navy high-gloss finish for the island and smoky white for the perimeter and upper cabinetry. Simple, satin nickel contemporary hardware reiterates the linear elements throughout. Interior detailing features rich walnut to complement the herringbone floors. The custom hood is hammered stainless steel to play off the plinth block island legs. The undeniable focal point is the stunning Calacatta Corchia marble selected for the countertops and full-height backsplash and walls. The lighting is a unique, suspended adjustable LED fixture. The twin side-by-side Sub-Zero Pro Fridge/Freezer columns include a glass front to highlight interior storage. The Wolf 60" range with pro handles features 2 30" full-size ovens, 6 burners, and a double griddle. The retractable doors in the wet bar cleverly close to hide the sink and bottle storage. The many windows bring lots of light into the space to make it a warm and inviting place to entertain friends and family.

The yoga studio was conceived as a modern interpretation of a Japanese Tea House perched at the edge of a dry pond amidst a traditional walking garden. Many of the design and construction elements abstractly reference traditional Japanese woodworking and construction techniques. The studio is lifted above the ground by two large carrying beams providing the sense that the structure is floating at the edge of the stone pond. The studio itself is designed as a glass lantern, wrapped by a wooden screen. The sliding glass doors extend the studio space onto a deck proportioned for yoga mats. The glass windows wrap the corners of the studio allowing uninterrupted views into the garden and highlight special existing trees at the periphery. The lantern effect is most evident at the rear of the studio where the Ipe screen passes in front of two operable windows that provide ventilation, and illuminate from within at night. The proportions of the wood screen itself change shape to allow more air and light into the rear of the studio. The western red cedar ceiling of the studio creates a plane that extends from the exterior to the interior of the glass wall. As the ceiling plane translates from the exterior to the interior, passing the glass wall, the plane shifts above the structure exposing the cedar joists and allowing us to install indirect lighting within the studio. The design of the gardens was carefully crafted and installed by Land Design Associates and the Owners to create this spectacular backyard oasis in the center of sub-urban Newton, Massachusetts.

This collaboration was with a return client, who wanted to completely restore and renovate her over 100-year-old Victorian. It was key for the homeowner maintained the original footprint of the home with full front to back views of the sound. A contemporary vision translated into slab doors in a navy high-gloss finish for the island and smoky white for the perimeter and upper cabinetry. Simple, satin nickel contemporary hardware reiterates the linear elements throughout. Interior detailing features rich walnut to complement the herringbone floors. The custom hood is hammered stainless steel to play off the plinth block island legs. The undeniable focal point is the stunning Calacatta Corchia marble selected for the countertops and full-height backsplash and walls. The lighting is a unique, suspended adjustable LED fixture. The twin side-by-side Sub-Zero Pro Fridge/Freezer columns include a glass front to highlight interior storage. The Wolf 60" range with pro handles features 2 30" full-size ovens, 6 burners, and a double griddle. The retractable doors in the wet bar cleverly close to hide the sink and bottle storage. The many windows bring lots of light into the space to make it a warm and inviting place to entertain friends and family.

We gave this newly-built weekend home in New London, New Hampshire a colorful and contemporary interior style. The successful result of a partnership with Smart Architecture, Grace Hill Construction and Terri Wilcox Gardens, we translated the contemporary-style architecture into modern, yet comfortable interiors for a Massachusetts family. Creating a lake home designed for gatherings of extended family and friends that will produce wonderful memories for many years to come.

When you open the back doors of the home of Nancy and Jeremy Campbell in Granville, you don’t just step out onto a patio. You enter an extension of a modern living space that just happens to be outdoors. Their patio’s unique design and setting provides the comfort and style of indoors while enjoying the natural beauty and fresh air of outdoors. It all started with a rather desolate back yard. “It was completely blank, there was nothing back there,” Nancy remembers of the patio space of this 1972 split-level house they bought five years ago. With a blank slate to work with, the Campbells knew the key elements of what they wanted for their new outdoor space when they sat down with Travis Ketron of Ketron Custom Builders to design it. “We knew we wanted something covered so we could use it in the rain, and in the winter, and we knew we wanted a stone fireplace,” Nancy recalls. Travis translated the Campbells’ vision into a design to satisfy outdoor entertaining and relaxing desires in all seasons. The new outdoor space is reminiscent of a vast, rustic great room complete with a stone fireplace, a vaulted ceiling, skylights, and ceiling fans, yet no walls. The space is completely open to the elements without any glass or doors on any of the sides, except from the house. Furnished like a great room, with a built-in music system as well, it’s truly an extension of indoor living and entertaining space, and one that is unaffected by rain. Jeremy comments, “We haven’t had to cover the furniture yet. It would have to be a pretty strong wind to get wet.” Just outside the covered patio is a quartet of outdoor chairs adorned with plush cushions and colorful pillows, positioned perfectly for users to bask in the sun. In the design process, the fireplace emerged as the anchor of the space and set the stage for the outdoor space both aesthetically and functionally. “We didn’t want it to block the view. Then designing the space with Travis, the fireplace became the center,” remembers Jeremy. Placed directly across from the two sets of French doors leading out from the house, a Rumford fireplace and extended hearth of stone in neutral earth tones is the focal point of this outdoor living room. Seating for entertaining and lounging falls easily into place around it providing optimal viewing of the private, wooded back yard. When temperatures cool off, the fireplace provides ample warmth and a cozy setting to experience the change of seasons. “It’s a great fireplace for the space,” Jeremy says of the unique design of a Rumford style fireplace. “The way you stack the wood in the fireplace is different so as to get more heat. It has a shallower box, burns hotter and puts off more heat. Wood is placed in it vertically, not stacked.” Just in case the fireplace doesn’t provide enough light for late-night soirees, there is additional outdoor lighting mounted from the ceiling to make sure the party always goes on. Travis brought the idea of the Rumford outdoor fireplace to the Campbells. “I learned about it a few years back from some masons, and I was intrigued by the idea then,” he says. “We like to do stuff that’s out of the norm, and this fireplace fits the space and function very well.” Travis adds, “People want unique things that are designed for them. That’s our style to do that for them.” The patio also extends out to an uncovered area set up with patio tables for grilling and dining. Gray pavers flow throughout from the covered space to the open-air area. Their continuous flow mimics the feel of flooring that extends from a living room into a dining room inside a home. Also, the earth tone colors throughout the space on the pavers, fireplace and furnishings help the entire space mesh nicely with its natural surroundings. A little ways off from both the covered and uncovered patio area is a stone fire pit ring. Removed by just the right distance, it provides a separate place for young adults to gather and enjoy the night. Adirondack chairs and matching tables surround the outdoor fire pit, offering seating for anyone who doesn’t wish to stand and a place to set down ingredients for yummy fireside treats like s’mores. Padded chairs outside the reach of the pavilion and the nearby umbrella the perfect place to kick back and relax in the sun. The colorful throw pillows and outdoor furniture cushions add some needed color and a touch of personality. Enjoying the comforts of indoors while being outdoors is exactly what the Campbells are doing now, particularly when lounging on the comfortable wicker furniture that dominate most of the area. “My favorite part of the whole thing is the fireplace,” Nancy says. Jeremy concludes, “There is no television, it would destroy the ambiance out there. We just enjoy listening to music and watching the fire.”

This amazing John’s Island custom home epitomizes Lowcountry living with a large front porch, backyard entertainment spaces, views of the intercoastal waterways and charming design elements that invite you into the space. With solid construction, Gable brackets, Jeld-Wen impact rated dark bronze vinyl windows, white Hardie siding, the homeowners are ready for any type of Coastal weather. The custom exterior details translate seamlessly into the interior of the home. Some of the high-end design choices include crown molding, shiplap, cable hand rails on the stairs, unique built-ins in the living room which are mimicked on the ceiling of the master, custom cedar barn doors, floating countertops made from solid hickory live edge wood, Carrera marble tile, electronic valve-controlled showers, and a shiplap kitchen hood. As entertainers, the homeowners embraced the concept of combining two living spaces into one, which was made possible by installing a PGT sliding door. These doors slide back into themselves, opening up the indoors to the outdoor deck space with fireplace. Guests also enjoy waterway views made possible by the Juliet balcony off the front bedroom of the home, and the very large man-cave under the home. Take a look at this amazing home designed in conjunction with Vinyet Architecture and interior styling by Polish Pop Design. Drone Photography & Video by Nick Holzworth at 5th Spark

Design: Translations Design Studio Photo: Eliot Tuckerman
Beach style entryway photo in Charleston

Inspiration for a contemporary home bar remodel in Other

This amazing John’s Island custom home epitomizes Lowcountry living with a large front porch, backyard entertainment spaces, views of the intercoastal waterways and charming design elements that invite you into the space. With solid construction, Gable brackets, Jeld-Wen impact rated dark bronze vinyl windows, white Hardie siding, the homeowners are ready for any type of Coastal weather. The custom exterior details translate seamlessly into the interior of the home. Some of the high-end design choices include crown molding, shiplap, cable hand rails on the stairs, unique built-ins in the living room which are mimicked on the ceiling of the master, custom cedar barn doors, floating countertops made from solid hickory live edge wood, Carrera marble tile, electronic valve-controlled showers, and a shiplap kitchen hood. As entertainers, the homeowners embraced the concept of combining two living spaces into one, which was made possible by installing a PGT sliding door. These doors slide back into themselves, opening up the indoors to the outdoor deck space with fireplace. Guests also enjoy waterway views made possible by the Juliet balcony off the front bedroom of the home, and the very large man-cave under the home. Take a look at this amazing home designed in conjunction with Vinyet Architecture and interior styling by Polish Pop Design. Drone Photography & Video by Nick Holzworth at 5th Spark

We had a few problems to solve during the gut remodel of this Midcentury kitchen. First, in order to put the dishwasher next to the sink, we had to move the peninsula to the left a bit. Then we hid the microwave by placing it under the peninsula--no one needs to see a big microwave on the counter! We chose a subtle light fixture with black accents to balance the volume of the larger fixture in the dining room, and to match with the faucet. We kept the pulls modern and simple. Kitchen accessories from West Elm, World Market and Nickey Kehoe, rug by Target. Kitchen and dining room staging by Allison Scheff of Distinctive Kitchens. Photos by Wynne H Earle

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset. The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu . Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home. The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south. Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape. The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature. Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design. Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view. Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward. Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan Structural Engineer: ZFA Contractor: Maison D’Artiste Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2023

This collaboration was with a return client, who wanted to completely restore and renovate her over 100-year-old Victorian. It was key for the homeowner maintained the original footprint of the home with full front to back views of the sound. A contemporary vision translated into slab doors in a navy high-gloss finish for the island and smoky white for the perimeter and upper cabinetry. Simple, satin nickel contemporary hardware reiterates the linear elements throughout. Interior detailing features rich walnut to complement the herringbone floors. The custom hood is hammered stainless steel to play off the plinth block island legs. The undeniable focal point is the stunning Calacatta Corchia marble selected for the countertops and full-height backsplash and walls. The lighting is a unique, suspended adjustable LED fixture. The twin side-by-side Sub-Zero Pro Fridge/Freezer columns include a glass front to highlight interior storage. The Wolf 60" range with pro handles features 2 30" full-size ovens, 6 burners, and a double griddle. The retractable doors in the wet bar cleverly close to hide the sink and bottle storage. The many windows bring lots of light into the space to make it a warm and inviting place to entertain friends and family.

Home bar - coastal home bar idea in Charleston

This homeowner lived on a very prominent golf course and wanted to feel like he was on the putting green of the 9th hole while standing at his family room window. The existing layout of the home had the garage enjoying that view with the outdated dining room, family room and kitchen further back on the lot. We completely demoed the garage and a section of the home, allowing us to design and build with that view in mind. The completed project has the family room at the back of the home with a gorgeous view of the golf course from two large curved bay windows. A new fireplace with custom cabinetry and shelf niches and coffered high ceilings makes this room a treasure. The new kitchen boasts of white painted cabinetry, an island with wood top and a 6 burner Wolf cooktop with a custom hood, white tile with multiple trim details and a pot filler faucet. A Butler’s Pantry was added for entertaining complete with beautiful white painted cabinetry with glass upper cabinets, marble countertops and a prep sink and faucet. We converted an unused dining room into a custom, high-end home office with beautiful site- built mahogany bookcases to showcase the homeowners book collections. To complete this renovation, we added a “friends” entry and a mudroom for improved access and functionality. The transformation is not only efficient but aesthetically pleasing to the eye and exceeded the homeowner’s expectations to enjoy their view of the 9th hole.

This amazing John’s Island custom home epitomizes Lowcountry living with a large front porch, backyard entertainment spaces, views of the intercoastal waterways and charming design elements that invite you into the space. With solid construction, Gable brackets, Jeld-Wen impact rated dark bronze vinyl windows, white Hardie siding, the homeowners are ready for any type of Coastal weather. The custom exterior details translate seamlessly into the interior of the home. Some of the high-end design choices include crown molding, shiplap, cable hand rails on the stairs, unique built-ins in the living room which are mimicked on the ceiling of the master, custom cedar barn doors, floating countertops made from solid hickory live edge wood, Carrera marble tile, electronic valve-controlled showers, and a shiplap kitchen hood. As entertainers, the homeowners embraced the concept of combining two living spaces into one, which was made possible by installing a PGT sliding door. These doors slide back into themselves, opening up the indoors to the outdoor deck space with fireplace. Guests also enjoy waterway views made possible by the Juliet balcony off the front bedroom of the home, and the very large man-cave under the home. Take a look at this amazing home designed in conjunction with Vinyet Architecture and interior styling by Polish Pop Design. Drone Photography & Video by Nick Holzworth at 5th Spark