Klopf Architecture, Arterra Landscape Architects and Henry Calvert of Calvert Ventures Designed and built a new warm, modern, Eichler-inspired, open, indoor-outdoor home on a deeper-than-usual San Mateo Highlands property where an original Eichler house had burned to the ground. The owners wanted multi-generational living and larger spaces than the original home offered, but all parties agreed that the house should respect the neighborhood and blend in stylistically with the other Eichlers. At first the Klopf team considered re-using what little was left of the original home and expanding on it. But after discussions with the owner and builder, all parties agreed that the last few remaining elements of the house were not practical to re-use, so Klopf Architecture designed a new home that pushes the Eichler approach in new directions. One disadvantage of Eichler production homes is that the house designs were not optimized for each specific lot. A new custom home offered the team a chance to start over. In this case, a longer house that opens up sideways to the south fit the lot better than the original square-ish house that used to open to the rear (west). Accordingly, the Klopf team designed an L-shaped “bar” house with a large glass wall with large sliding glass doors that faces sideways instead of to the rear like a typical Eichler. This glass wall opens to a pool and landscaped yard designed by Arterra Landscape Architects. Driving by the house, one might assume at first glance it is an Eichler because of the horizontality, the overhanging flat roof eaves, the dark gray vertical siding, and orange solid panel front door, but the house is designed for the 21st Century and is not meant to be a “Likeler.” You won't see any posts and beams in this home. Instead, the ceiling decking is a western red cedar that covers over all the beams. Like Eichlers, this cedar runs continuously from inside to out, enhancing the indoor / outdoor feeling of the house, but unlike Eichlers it conceals a cavity for lighting, wiring, and insulation. Ceilings are higher, rooms are larger and more open, the master bathroom is light-filled and more generous, with a separate tub and shower and a separate toilet compartment, and there is plenty of storage. The garage even easily fits two of today's vehicles with room to spare. A massive 49-foot by 12-foot wall of glass and the continuity of materials from inside to outside enhance the inside-outside living concept, so the owners and their guests can flow freely from house to pool deck to BBQ to pool and back. During construction in the rough framing stage, Klopf thought the front of the house appeared too tall even though the house had looked right in the design renderings (probably because the house is uphill from the street). So Klopf Architecture paid the framer to change the roofline from how we had designed it to be lower along the front, allowing the home to blend in better with the neighborhood. One project goal was for people driving up the street to pass the home without immediately noticing there is an "imposter" on this lot, and making that change was essential to achieve that goal. This 2,606 square foot, 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom Eichler-inspired new house is located in San Mateo in the heart of the Silicon Valley. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Klara Kevane Landscape Architect: Arterra Landscape Architects Contractor: Henry Calvert of Calvert Ventures Photography ©2016 Mariko Reed Location: San Mateo, CA Year completed: 2016

The Space THE AIRSTREAM INTERNATIONAL CCD 25'ss is a Christopher Deem Limited Edition. Set in the beautiful mountain range 'Sierra de las Nieves' in Southern Spain - this is an outdoor adventure you're not likely to forget!! Offering all the comforts of home with the luxury of a 5 star hotelroom - the airstream is an oasis of luxury in the middle of Nature. Modelled on the original 1930's classic, she's the perfect combination of retro nostalgia and contemporary design. The interior is sleek and stylish, and is equipped with everything you could possibly need to enjoy your glamping experience to the full. Facilities include: fully fitted kitchen with oven/hob/microwave/fridge-freezer; shower room with wc & washbasin; bedroom with cosy double bed; dining area; living area with comfy sofas and flat-screen TV/DVD; i-pod/i-phone docking station, CD player with surround-sound stereo; Wi-Fi internet access; and air con and heating. But perhaps the 'cherry on the cake' is the outdoor plunge pool - the ultimate in glamorous camping!! Laying in the pool or next to it on a warm summer's night as you gaze at the stars is a memory which is sure to remain.. The airstream is perfectly suited both for singles and couples - and provides the ideal setting for romantic or solitary retreat. The surrounding scenery is stunning, and there are plenty of nature trails and treks to be explored. Owner Trevor lives close by, and is always happy to lend a hand with trip planning and advice etc. A 20 minute walk down the mountain track will lead to the nearby village of 'Alozaina' - a typically Spanish 'pueblo blanco' which has retained much of its rustic charm. Life is slow here, and not to be rushed! There are several tapas bars, cafes, and a couple of decent restaurants, as well shops and even a small supermarket. Further afield, there is much to explore. Nearby excursions include the historical town of Ronda - and the oldest bullring in Spain, the elegant city of Malaga, Seville, Marbella & jet-setting Puerto Banus, and the picturesque 'pueblo blanco' of Ojen. Car hire is essential in order to fully enjoy the area. If you have any questions about the glamping experience, or the airstream itself - please ask. I have a good knowledge of the local area, and a deep love for the mountain - affectionately known to the locals as 'magic mountain'! You'll understand why when you visit - there is indeed something special and perhaps even magical about this place, just waiting to be discovered... I look forward to hearing from you!

SeaThru is a new, waterfront, modern home. SeaThru was inspired by the mid-century modern homes from our area, known as the Sarasota School of Architecture. This homes designed to offer more than the standard, ubiquitous rear-yard waterfront outdoor space. A central courtyard offer the residents a respite from the heat that accompanies west sun, and creates a gorgeous intermediate view fro guest staying in the semi-attached guest suite, who can actually SEE THROUGH the main living space and enjoy the bay views. Noble materials such as stone cladding, oak floors, composite wood louver screens and generous amounts of glass lend to a relaxed, warm-contemporary feeling not typically common to these types of homes. Photos by Ryan Gamma Photography

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood. INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site. EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot. THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place. HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde. YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting. ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements. RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage. OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet. ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings Eric Roth Photography - Photography

The design strategy included working within the footprint created by the home and backyard, wanting to incorporate a swimming pool “destination” within the backyard that would be large enough to fit the “larger than life” criteria, but without taking away any of the natural beauty or obstructing the view of the horse pastures, barn and nature surrounding the home. Once the design work began, and the pool area was able to incorporate one of every feature the customer could have wanted, Curtis had some steel grates from a former tilt-a-whirl carnival ride that gave him the idea of suspending a stage over the pool. The initial idea was a modest stage with some waterfall/sheer decent features. With the idea of using steel to form the framework, the stage idea grew into something much more that would include a full stage set up, lighting trusses, a “green room” and staging area. Once the stage was designed to be so large, the pool size and scope needed to match including the patio surround, area underneath the stage, and all the additional features. The home architecture is a Ranch with a full finished walkout basement adjacent to the pool area. An existing deck had to be removed to allow for the pool build and new Trex deck, as well as a 3 story tall observation tower that overlooks the pool and surrounding horse pastures. The design strategy was to work within the footprint the house and decks provided to create an extension of the home for outdoor entertaining. Since the exterior of the house was quite long (and dull, the owner equating it to a 1970’s motel), our team needed to incorporate elements to make the space feel more like a backyard resort. The goal was maintaining a cozy at home feel in a grand expanse of space. It takes a team and a unique blend of artistry to build this project. Sandi Maki, co-owner of the company is responsible for the business side of things, and marketing to reach exceptional customers who allow us to build these backyard dreams. The construction side of our company boasts a diverse, multi-geneational family business. Allan Curtis is the designer/builder and comes up with the fantastic pool plans and ideas. His team consists of his daughter Jesse Curtis, who is high right hand and manages the project just as much as Allan does. She is instrumental in everything from dig day, to tying the steel, pouring the concrete, stonework and tile work, forming the waterfall, applying ecoFinish, pouring and stamping patio, and everything in between. Allan’s nephew Mark Curtis installed and plumbed the three pool filtration systems. Allan’s wife Annie has become very good at stonework on walls and waterfalls adding the unique accents our projects have become known for. Allan’s sister-in-law, Karen Olson also does tile and stonework on the jobs and created the rockstar mural on the patio. Frank DiPiazza assists with structural elements and built the new deck, and college student Brendan Schafer assists where needed and maintains the pool and equipment during the summer on a weekly basis. As with many homeowners who reach out to Legendary Escapes, this owner, Dale Walter, knew he wanted a “custom” pool without knowing what that really meant. He was able to show Curtis the space, and his initial ideas, and then allowed Allan and his team the freedom to dream and build. The majority of Legendary Escapes customers make the decision to hire the company after the first meeting with Curtis. As long as the project and design are challenging and interesting, the customer meets the criteria of being easy to work with, and is special in their own unique way Curtis will consider taking on their project. From the beginning it is important to Curtis that the customer understands they need to allow the project to take on a life of it’s own, and for Curtis to create without interference or asking too many questions – working together becomes a reality. The design is typically presented on paper, a hand-colored, hand drawn design that outlines only the large elements, and an accompanying budget which outlines the structural elements and budgets and has a “theme” budget for items to be determined but doesn’t change once it is set. Once that contract is signed, Curtis and his team over-deliver on what the customer could only have dreamed up in their wildest imagination. Projects proceed in an organic way- not every element is planned before the project begins. As the space begins to take shape, so do the details and finishing elements. When the Rockstar project began, there was no plan for the guitars on the fences, or guitar fire features. The VIP seating area wasn’t added until mid way through the patio pours as the space began to take shape. The murals both in the grotto and on the pool floor were planned just moments before each of them was to be installed. It’s this free-flowing combination of the customers and team’s dreams, ideas, elements and the Legendary Escapes team that creates backyard pools that are as much art as they are design and engineering masterpieces.

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.

The design strategy included working within the footprint created by the home and backyard, wanting to incorporate a swimming pool “destination” within the backyard that would be large enough to fit the “larger than life” criteria, but without taking away any of the natural beauty or obstructing the view of the horse pastures, barn and nature surrounding the home. Once the design work began, and the pool area was able to incorporate one of every feature the customer could have wanted, Curtis had some steel grates from a former tilt-a-whirl carnival ride that gave him the idea of suspending a stage over the pool. The initial idea was a modest stage with some waterfall/sheer decent features. With the idea of using steel to form the framework, the stage idea grew into something much more that would include a full stage set up, lighting trusses, a “green room” and staging area. Once the stage was designed to be so large, the pool size and scope needed to match including the patio surround, area underneath the stage, and all the additional features. The home architecture is a Ranch with a full finished walkout basement adjacent to the pool area. An existing deck had to be removed to allow for the pool build and new Trex deck, as well as a 3 story tall observation tower that overlooks the pool and surrounding horse pastures. The design strategy was to work within the footprint the house and decks provided to create an extension of the home for outdoor entertaining. Since the exterior of the house was quite long (and dull, the owner equating it to a 1970’s motel), our team needed to incorporate elements to make the space feel more like a backyard resort. The goal was maintaining a cozy at home feel in a grand expanse of space. It takes a team and a unique blend of artistry to build this project. Sandi Maki, co-owner of the company is responsible for the business side of things, and marketing to reach exceptional customers who allow us to build these backyard dreams. The construction side of our company boasts a diverse, multi-geneational family business. Allan Curtis is the designer/builder and comes up with the fantastic pool plans and ideas. His team consists of his daughter Jesse Curtis, who is high right hand and manages the project just as much as Allan does. She is instrumental in everything from dig day, to tying the steel, pouring the concrete, stonework and tile work, forming the waterfall, applying ecoFinish, pouring and stamping patio, and everything in between. Allan’s nephew Mark Curtis installed and plumbed the three pool filtration systems. Allan’s wife Annie has become very good at stonework on walls and waterfalls adding the unique accents our projects have become known for. Allan’s sister-in-law, Karen Olson also does tile and stonework on the jobs and created the rockstar mural on the patio. Frank DiPiazza assists with structural elements and built the new deck, and college student Brendan Schafer assists where needed and maintains the pool and equipment during the summer on a weekly basis. As with many homeowners who reach out to Legendary Escapes, this owner, Dale Walter, knew he wanted a “custom” pool without knowing what that really meant. He was able to show Curtis the space, and his initial ideas, and then allowed Allan and his team the freedom to dream and build. The majority of Legendary Escapes customers make the decision to hire the company after the first meeting with Curtis. As long as the project and design are challenging and interesting, the customer meets the criteria of being easy to work with, and is special in their own unique way Curtis will consider taking on their project. From the beginning it is important to Curtis that the customer understands they need to allow the project to take on a life of it’s own, and for Curtis to create without interference or asking too many questions – working together becomes a reality. The design is typically presented on paper, a hand-colored, hand drawn design that outlines only the large elements, and an accompanying budget which outlines the structural elements and budgets and has a “theme” budget for items to be determined but doesn’t change once it is set. Once that contract is signed, Curtis and his team over-deliver on what the customer could only have dreamed up in their wildest imagination. Projects proceed in an organic way- not every element is planned before the project begins. As the space begins to take shape, so do the details and finishing elements. When the Rockstar project began, there was no plan for the guitars on the fences, or guitar fire features. The VIP seating area wasn’t added until mid way through the patio pours as the space began to take shape. The murals both in the grotto and on the pool floor were planned just moments before each of them was to be installed. It’s this free-flowing combination of the customers and team’s dreams, ideas, elements and the Legendary Escapes team that creates backyard pools that are as much art as they are design and engineering masterpieces.

The design strategy included working within the footprint created by the home and backyard, wanting to incorporate a swimming pool “destination” within the backyard that would be large enough to fit the “larger than life” criteria, but without taking away any of the natural beauty or obstructing the view of the horse pastures, barn and nature surrounding the home. Once the design work began, and the pool area was able to incorporate one of every feature the customer could have wanted, Curtis had some steel grates from a former tilt-a-whirl carnival ride that gave him the idea of suspending a stage over the pool. The initial idea was a modest stage with some waterfall/sheer decent features. With the idea of using steel to form the framework, the stage idea grew into something much more that would include a full stage set up, lighting trusses, a “green room” and staging area. Once the stage was designed to be so large, the pool size and scope needed to match including the patio surround, area underneath the stage, and all the additional features. The home architecture is a Ranch with a full finished walkout basement adjacent to the pool area. An existing deck had to be removed to allow for the pool build and new Trex deck, as well as a 3 story tall observation tower that overlooks the pool and surrounding horse pastures. The design strategy was to work within the footprint the house and decks provided to create an extension of the home for outdoor entertaining. Since the exterior of the house was quite long (and dull, the owner equating it to a 1970’s motel), our team needed to incorporate elements to make the space feel more like a backyard resort. The goal was maintaining a cozy at home feel in a grand expanse of space. It takes a team and a unique blend of artistry to build this project. Sandi Maki, co-owner of the company is responsible for the business side of things, and marketing to reach exceptional customers who allow us to build these backyard dreams. The construction side of our company boasts a diverse, multi-geneational family business. Allan Curtis is the designer/builder and comes up with the fantastic pool plans and ideas. His team consists of his daughter Jesse Curtis, who is high right hand and manages the project just as much as Allan does. She is instrumental in everything from dig day, to tying the steel, pouring the concrete, stonework and tile work, forming the waterfall, applying ecoFinish, pouring and stamping patio, and everything in between. Allan’s nephew Mark Curtis installed and plumbed the three pool filtration systems. Allan’s wife Annie has become very good at stonework on walls and waterfalls adding the unique accents our projects have become known for. Allan’s sister-in-law, Karen Olson also does tile and stonework on the jobs and created the rockstar mural on the patio. Frank DiPiazza assists with structural elements and built the new deck, and college student Brendan Schafer assists where needed and maintains the pool and equipment during the summer on a weekly basis. As with many homeowners who reach out to Legendary Escapes, this owner, Dale Walter, knew he wanted a “custom” pool without knowing what that really meant. He was able to show Curtis the space, and his initial ideas, and then allowed Allan and his team the freedom to dream and build. The majority of Legendary Escapes customers make the decision to hire the company after the first meeting with Curtis. As long as the project and design are challenging and interesting, the customer meets the criteria of being easy to work with, and is special in their own unique way Curtis will consider taking on their project. From the beginning it is important to Curtis that the customer understands they need to allow the project to take on a life of it’s own, and for Curtis to create without interference or asking too many questions – working together becomes a reality. The design is typically presented on paper, a hand-colored, hand drawn design that outlines only the large elements, and an accompanying budget which outlines the structural elements and budgets and has a “theme” budget for items to be determined but doesn’t change once it is set. Once that contract is signed, Curtis and his team over-deliver on what the customer could only have dreamed up in their wildest imagination. Projects proceed in an organic way- not every element is planned before the project begins. As the space begins to take shape, so do the details and finishing elements. When the Rockstar project began, there was no plan for the guitars on the fences, or guitar fire features. The VIP seating area wasn’t added until mid way through the patio pours as the space began to take shape. The murals both in the grotto and on the pool floor were planned just moments before each of them was to be installed. It’s this free-flowing combination of the customers and team’s dreams, ideas, elements and the Legendary Escapes team that creates backyard pools that are as much art as they are design and engineering masterpieces.

New kitchen and dining room with a deck. This was a typical small 2 story brick home in Bethesda with a walk out basement. The back faced south but there were very few windows making it dark inside. We added a 3 story addition to the back for a new master suite, new kitchen and dining room and a new play room on the lower level. We also added a large deck off the kitchen and a deck off the master bedroom. The new south facing windows heat the house in the winter and the balcony and overhang shades the windows in the summer. The most dramatic feature of this addition is the new stainless steel stair and the new structural steel that replaced the original brick wall. This is a classic example of passive solar design.

Timber-Tech composite deck and railing is attached to the house complete with post and step lighting. 400 square foot patio with mortared Pennsylvania flagstone and an outdoor stone-veneered grill station and fire pit. Located in Arlington, VA

The client’s request was quite common - a typical 2800 sf builder home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living space, and den. However, their desire was for this to be “anything but common.” The result is an innovative update on the production home for the modern era, and serves as a direct counterpoint to the neighborhood and its more conventional suburban housing stock, which focus views to the backyard and seeks to nullify the unique qualities and challenges of topography and the natural environment. The Terraced House cautiously steps down the site’s steep topography, resulting in a more nuanced approach to site development than cutting and filling that is so common in the builder homes of the area. The compact house opens up in very focused views that capture the natural wooded setting, while masking the sounds and views of the directly adjacent roadway. The main living spaces face this major roadway, effectively flipping the typical orientation of a suburban home, and the main entrance pulls visitors up to the second floor and halfway through the site, providing a sense of procession and privacy absent in the typical suburban home. Clad in a custom rain screen that reflects the wood of the surrounding landscape - while providing a glimpse into the interior tones that are used. The stepping “wood boxes” rest on a series of concrete walls that organize the site, retain the earth, and - in conjunction with the wood veneer panels - provide a subtle organic texture to the composition. The interior spaces wrap around an interior knuckle that houses public zones and vertical circulation - allowing more private spaces to exist at the edges of the building. The windows get larger and more frequent as they ascend the building, culminating in the upstairs bedrooms that occupy the site like a tree house - giving views in all directions. The Terraced House imports urban qualities to the suburban neighborhood and seeks to elevate the typical approach to production home construction, while being more in tune with modern family living patterns. Overview: Elm Grove Size: 2,800 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Completion Date: September 2014 Services: Architecture, Landscape Architecture Interior Consultants: Amy Carman Design

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.

The client’s request was quite common - a typical 2800 sf builder home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living space, and den. However, their desire was for this to be “anything but common.” The result is an innovative update on the production home for the modern era, and serves as a direct counterpoint to the neighborhood and its more conventional suburban housing stock, which focus views to the backyard and seeks to nullify the unique qualities and challenges of topography and the natural environment. The Terraced House cautiously steps down the site’s steep topography, resulting in a more nuanced approach to site development than cutting and filling that is so common in the builder homes of the area. The compact house opens up in very focused views that capture the natural wooded setting, while masking the sounds and views of the directly adjacent roadway. The main living spaces face this major roadway, effectively flipping the typical orientation of a suburban home, and the main entrance pulls visitors up to the second floor and halfway through the site, providing a sense of procession and privacy absent in the typical suburban home. Clad in a custom rain screen that reflects the wood of the surrounding landscape - while providing a glimpse into the interior tones that are used. The stepping “wood boxes” rest on a series of concrete walls that organize the site, retain the earth, and - in conjunction with the wood veneer panels - provide a subtle organic texture to the composition. The interior spaces wrap around an interior knuckle that houses public zones and vertical circulation - allowing more private spaces to exist at the edges of the building. The windows get larger and more frequent as they ascend the building, culminating in the upstairs bedrooms that occupy the site like a tree house - giving views in all directions. The Terraced House imports urban qualities to the suburban neighborhood and seeks to elevate the typical approach to production home construction, while being more in tune with modern family living patterns. Overview: Elm Grove Size: 2,800 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Completion Date: September 2014 Services: Architecture, Landscape Architecture Interior Consultants: Amy Carman Design

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.

The client’s request was quite common - a typical 2800 sf builder home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living space, and den. However, their desire was for this to be “anything but common.” The result is an innovative update on the production home for the modern era, and serves as a direct counterpoint to the neighborhood and its more conventional suburban housing stock, which focus views to the backyard and seeks to nullify the unique qualities and challenges of topography and the natural environment. The Terraced House cautiously steps down the site’s steep topography, resulting in a more nuanced approach to site development than cutting and filling that is so common in the builder homes of the area. The compact house opens up in very focused views that capture the natural wooded setting, while masking the sounds and views of the directly adjacent roadway. The main living spaces face this major roadway, effectively flipping the typical orientation of a suburban home, and the main entrance pulls visitors up to the second floor and halfway through the site, providing a sense of procession and privacy absent in the typical suburban home. Clad in a custom rain screen that reflects the wood of the surrounding landscape - while providing a glimpse into the interior tones that are used. The stepping “wood boxes” rest on a series of concrete walls that organize the site, retain the earth, and - in conjunction with the wood veneer panels - provide a subtle organic texture to the composition. The interior spaces wrap around an interior knuckle that houses public zones and vertical circulation - allowing more private spaces to exist at the edges of the building. The windows get larger and more frequent as they ascend the building, culminating in the upstairs bedrooms that occupy the site like a tree house - giving views in all directions. The Terraced House imports urban qualities to the suburban neighborhood and seeks to elevate the typical approach to production home construction, while being more in tune with modern family living patterns. Overview: Elm Grove Size: 2,800 sf, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Completion Date: September 2014 Services: Architecture, Landscape Architecture Interior Consultants: Amy Carman Design

Our clients love to entertain, and their Modern Craftsman cottage is designed to welcome guests, make the most of their beautiful lakefront property, and give them all of the luxuries of a modern home. Although a relatively modest size at 2,000 sq ft, this 4-season residence will feel larger, as both the main level and the walk-out lower level have high ceilings, plentiful windows, and open-concept spaces. A cathedral ceiling runs from the front entry through the great room and the dining area is defined with a coffered ceiling. The open-concept great room with fireplace feature, dining area, and kitchen have a wall of glass facing the lake, bringing in the light and lovely view. The pantry, complete with window, is large enough for cabinets and a second fridge, allowing for the preparation of slow-cooker meals or hors d’oeuvres. Designed to provide a quiet retreat, the primary bedroom is configured for lower sound transmission from the entertaining areas, and includes a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite. The mudroom/laundry off the garage has a large walk-in closet. A den (also with walk-in closet) and a full bathroom are located near the front entrance. Running the full width of the lake-facing side of the cottage, the screened-in porch, open deck, and covered deck extend the interior with plentiful outdoor living space. The lower level is not your typical basement! Designed with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake and a full-height walk-out, it will not feel like a basement. Much of the space is open and has special millwork on the ceiling to define the great room, games area with wet bar, and family/theatre room. Before entering the lower level from the outside, family and friends can use the outdoor shower and then store shoes and equipment in the cubbies immediately inside the door. A full bath is conveniently located inside the door for easy access from the lake. Two bedrooms are located on this level, each with an ensuite and walk-in closet. A storage room and mechanical room round out the lower level. Protected by the upper-level deck, the lower deck is as extensive as the upper one, with additional patio space towards the lake. The oversized 30’x30′ garage is located to provide some extra privacy from the neighbours and supplies ample space for vehicles, watercraft, and equipment.