The architect and designer Guy Derwent was approached by his client with a clear and compelling brief: to completely transform a grand Victorian terrace house they were planning to renovate. The client envisioned something far beyond a standard renovation – this was to be a bold and dramatic reimagining of a family home that could grow with them over time. With the property having remained largely untouched for more than fifty years, the architects saw an opportunity to unlock its potential and deliver a contemporary design that would contrast beautifully with its Victorian heritage. The existing layout consisted of a series of small, disconnected rooms to the rear of the house. To respond to the client’s need for openness and flexibility, the architect proposed a radical restructuring of the ground floor: The rear rooms were completely removed Suspended timber floors were lowered by up to two metres to align with the garden Two bold extensions were added The first extension filled in the side return with a London stock brick facade and a glazed roof, while the second – a striking black steel and glass pavilion was glazed on three sides and placed along the garden elevation. This new pavilion redefined the building’s relationship with the garden. Its steel-framed glazing created a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior, offering a sense of immersion in the surrounding landscape. At the heart of the plan sits a dramatic, five-metre-tall dining space that acts as a transition from the original entrance hall into the new addition. A large, circular cast-glass window, framed in steel, provides a visual and spatial link between old and new, allowing light and movement to travel through the depth of the home. Throughout the project, a series of black metal elements were introduced as sculptural interventions – each marking moments of transformation within the house. These included the bespoke steel framed circular window, a custom metal staircase, a cylindrical support column, and the striking steel and glass garden pavilion. Together, they formed a coherent architectural language that underscored the project’s bold intent. Our steel windows and doors played a vital role in delivering the project’s vision. The architects chose steel for its refined sight lines and distinctive material character, which helped bridge the gap between the historical context of the building and the bold new additions. The black steel frames provided a crisp contrast to the pale London stock brick and added definition to the glazed pavilion, reinforcing the sense of architectural precision. In particular, the fine steel profiles of the garden room allowed the extension to feel both lightweight and immersive, blurring the boundary between the house and its garden. The architect drew inspiration from the Bauhaus Movement, particularly the work of Walter Gropius, whose approach to functional beauty and industrial materials informed the design of the garden pavilion. Here, our glazing system was used not just for transparency, but as an expressive architectural element. The carefully proportioned panels help to conceal the roof thickness and reinforce the pavilion’s industrial yet abstract character – a deliberate nod to product design and modernist detailing. Sustainability was an important factor in the selection of materials. Our steel systems, made from 99% recycled content and 100% recyclable, aligned with the project’s broader environmental goals. The architects noted that this commitment to material longevity and circularity was central to their decision to use steel. The durability and recyclability of the windows and doors ensured the project met both aesthetic and ethical criteria. This London terrace house now stands as a celebration of contrast – between heritage and innovation, solidity and transparency, tradition and transformation. Our steel windows and doors were not simply components; they were essential tools in crafting a home that is as bold and expressive as it is functional. The result is a home designed for modern family life, where light, space, and materiality come together in perfect harmony.

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

This master suite features a modern soaking tub paired with rustic beams and a porcelain tile that looks like wood.
Example of a large classic master beige tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile and brown floor bathroom design in Chicago with beige walls

This project in Riverside, CT, epitomizes the seamless integration of architecture and nature, providing homeowners with a stunning outdoor space that enhances their lifestyle. The meticulous choice of materials and design elements underscores the project’s success, making it a crucial addition to their home. As outdoor living spaces continue to grow in popularity, this project serves as an exemplary model for transforming any backyard into a captivating retreat.

Anthony Moreno Tree Falls Photography
Inspiration for a transitional home design remodel in New York

The Home While looking for space where their active family could expand, these homeowners turned to Black Forest, with trees that remind them of their Indiana years. A stunning Pikes Peak view underscores how fortunate they are to live in Colorado. This home features classic nods to the owner’s French heritage while embracing a thoroughly of-the-moment Colorado lifestyle. Priorities for these homeowners included blending outdoor and indoor spaces wherever possible with generously proportioned windows and doors, porches, patios and balconies. A gracious lime-washed brick entry punctuates a simplified white stucco and black-frame-windowed exterior with traditional rooflines. Dramatic open spaces on the main floor comfortably accommodate the everyday activities of this busy family of four, while providing for welcomed visits from family and friends. A functional, open kitchen is designed for serious cooking, a butler’s pantry for staples, and serveware storage and dining spaces that effortlessly host after-school snacking to multi-course meals. A main-level, Peak-view office comfortably supports working at home, complete with a beer cave and tasting nook for hosting fellow aficionados after work is done. Guests will find comfort and privacy in a ma in-level guestroom suite or sleepover fun in the built-in bunks of the expansive over-garage bonus room. This home is a true collaboration that blends the homeowner’s long-held vision of their ideal home brought to life by the builder’s vision and design/build process that achieves something truly…Warm and welcoming in the Forest. The Builder Stauffer & Sons Construction is a true Design-Build team creating some of the finest living spaces in the Pikes Peak region for over twenty years. We’ve developed an easy point-of-entry to the Design-Build process that begins with our very popular Conceptual Design and Budgeting Agreement. This affordable, low-commitment step provides answers to the early-stage questions of “what and how much?” With this critical information in place, a robust collaboration between client and builder ensues, resulting in a thoughtfully designed home that strikes a balance between size and scope and budget. The Interior Design Family, friends and soon-to-be friends are welcomed into this updated version of a French country farmhouse through a bricked archway and a solid arch-top entry door. Once inside, a sweeping gallery of windows adorned with flower-filled window boxes sets a nice foreground to the ponderosa pine forest. A great room with a two-story, lime-washed, brick fireplace sits juxtaposed to a cozy farm-styled kitchen with large island, plenty of storage and a Pikes Peak view. This family home features a simple, clean design with warm, wooden beams and solid, white-oak flooring. This home is designed to be lived in. Wherever you go, downstairs, upstairs or out on the porch, this home wraps around you and is a delightful place to enjoy.

Having the opportunity to work with Samantha on her master bathroom remodel was truly a pleasure for us. Her house was built in 1984 and her master bathroom needed a new and fresh new look. In order to achieve the new look, we removed the dated shower, tub and tub surround, the vanity and the flooring. By removing the soffit and nonfunctional storage next to the shower, we increased the shower and made the shower room much larger. We freshened the walls by using the color Drift of Mist from Sherwin Williams. The shower wall and tub surround tiles are from Arizona tile. It is the Bare White Glossy Subway Tile laid in a 3rd offset pattern. This tile pattern gives a fresh update to the classic subway pattern. The shower floor is a porcelain hex tile that looks like Carrara Marble. The niche tile is the Paloma Steel Rhomboid shape tile. Laid in a star pattern. We used a soft contrasting grout to accentuate the tile patterns. We installed Icon Black Hex 24” tile from Arizona Tile. By using this large tile it made the room feel much bigger and completes the industrial look. We installed a custom shower barn door with exposed castors and used the 2 in 1 shower head from Delta. Matching bathroom accessories in the matte black finishes allow for the pop in contrast. We continued the shower tile around the new Kohler Underscore tub. We also used the matte black tub filler as well as the widespread faucet on the vanity.

bathCRATE Framington Way | Vanity Top: Bedrosians Sequel Encore Delicatto Carrara Quartz | Sink: Kohler Caxton Sink in White | Faucet: Delta Trinsic Widespread Faucet in Brilliance Stainless | Shower Fixture: Delta Ashlyn Monitor 17 Series with Hand Shower in Brilliance Stainless | Shower Tile: Bedrosians Donna Ceramic Tile in Silver | Shower Floor Tile: Bedrosians Frammenta Mosaic Tile in White | Tub: Kohler Underscore Undermount Acrylic Tub in White | Tub Fixture: Delta Ashlyn Roman Tub Set in Brilliance Stainless | Tub Tile: Bedrosians Donna Matte Wave Deco Ceramic Tile in Silver | Flooring: Bedrosians Frammenta Tile in White | Vanity Paint: Sherwin-Williams Web Gray in Semi-Gloss | Wall Paint: Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray in Eggshell | For more visit: https://kbcrate.com/bathcrate-framington-way-in-elk-grove-ca-is-complete/

bathCRATE Walnut Woods | Custom Vanity by Falton Custom Cabinets | Vanity Top: Caesarstone Quartz Slab in Organic White | Vanity Backsplash: Vermeere Ceramics Manhattan Tile in Pretty Pink | Faucet: Newport Brass Skylar Faucet in Forever Brass | Shower Fixture: Newport Brass Secant Shower Trim in Forever Brass | Tub: Kohler Underscore Alcove Tub in White | Shower Tile: Vermeere Ceramics Manhattan Tile in Pretty Pink | Wall Paint: Kelly-Moore Cloud White in Satin Enamel | Floor Tile: Bedrosians Allora Porcelain Tile in Stella | For More Visit: https://kbcrate.com/bathcrate-walnut-woods-drive-in-modesto-ca-is-complete/

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

Christopher Davison, AIA
Kitchen/dining room combo - mid-sized craftsman medium tone wood floor kitchen/dining room combo idea in Austin with beige walls and no fireplace

This waterfront pool project in Beaconsfield reimagines a transitional backyard by fusing timeless warmth with crisp modern geometry. At its heart lies a custom concrete pool whose expansive beach entry pool—also known as a generous tanning ledge—slopes gently into the water, delivering the relaxed feel of a private resort. A frameless glass pool fence with low-iron panels preserves unobstructed lake vistas while ensuring safety, allowing the pool’s shimmering surface to merge visually with the open water beyond. Anchoring the far end of the basin is a dramatic outdoor fire feature that rises directly from the waterline. By day it acts as a sculptural focal point; by night the flames ripple across the water, transforming the space into a show-stopping luxury swimming pool experience. Every contour, drainage line, and equipment specification was shaped by Northstone’s in-house landscape architect design team and executed by our 180-strong crew of specialists, reinforcing our reputation as the go-to Beaconsfield pool builder for bespoke, high-end projects. Because Northstone is an entirely in-house design build firm, we streamline all stages—city permits, excavation, steel placement, shotcrete, and finishing—under a single roof. This turnkey approach distinguishes us among Montreal pool construction companies and ensures flawless craftsmanship in every pour. It is also why clients seeking a custom pool contractor to create a resort-style backyard consistently choose Northstone. That commitment to quality has earned us the #1 ranking for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and the top spot for pool design-build on bestmontrealservices.com. Our work has been showcased in Dwell, House & Home, the Montreal Gazette, and Living Luxe Magazine, underscoring our status as Montreal’s premier high-end pool company for luxury outdoor living on lakefront properties.

An American family with three young children, living in Geneva Switzerland wanted a vacation property in Los Angeles and were thrilled to find a brand new contemporary home 2 blocks from the beach in Redondo Beach. This 3,200 square foot home with four bedrooms and 4 1/2 baths was designed by Los Angeles architect Patrick John Killen, founder and Managing Principal of Studio 9 one 2. Both the husband and the wife in this family have built careers in the fashion industry and wanted their home to reflect their international sense of style while still being a comfortable and playful environment for their children - and to honor the fact that this is - after all - a beach house. Surf's Up! The house is close enough to the beach to receive lots of ocean air and breezes; the property is also designed with an abundance of glass in large sweeping windows that flood this very open floor plan with natural light. The extra large patio that is revealed by sliding back several large glass panel doors expands the primary living area to include this outdoor space. The rooftop deck offers an additional private lounge area for daytime sunning or sunset cocktails with a teasing glimpse of the ocean and a panoramic view of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Each bedroom has its own private bath and there is a fireplace in one of the two living rooms and in the Master suite, to warm those South Bay evenings. All of this within a five minute stroll to the beach! Surf's Up! The interior designed by Studio 9 one 2 utilized an assortment of “green-friendly” materials, including cherry stained bamboo flooring. The colors of granite used in the chef-friendly kitchen accenting the stainless steel appliances are dark greens and rich browns .. all bathed in lots of natural light. In keeping with Cantoni’s motto of ”Great Design is a Way of Life” Bernadette designed a playroom for the children where they could have their own space to just hang out, play video games and watch movies. Each bedroom reflects the personalities of the children and the Master Bedroom is a soothing and relaxing retreat for the parents. On the main level the large open floor plan the Mercer sectional just beckons you to kick back and relax especially after spending the day at the beach. The dark oak Ritz dining table is perfect for entertaining the many friends and family who Surf's Up!get together for bar-b-ques and gourmet dining. The artwork has a wonderful punch of color to underscore the playfulness and Southern California beach vibe. What better way to enjoy a vacation with family and friends! This is a great home away from home with plenty of space and light and only two blocks to the ocean. That’s why Jake says “Surf’s Up!”

Based in Lafayette, CA, Red White & Blue Construction is the area's top general contractor specializing in home remodeling, including standout Kitchen Remodels, Bathroom Remodels, Full House Remodels, New Construction, Room Additions, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Home Design. As a trusted remodeling partner serving the Bay Area, our deep roots in the Lafayette community are underscored by our unwavering standards. We're fully licensed, bonded, and insured, ensuring every homeowner's peace of mind. Our transparent and competitive pricing, coupled with our stellar client communication, sets us apart. Choosing Red White & Blue Construction isn't just about renovating a space; it's about bringing your vision to life.

Hall bathroom updated with white 12x24 tile flooring, quartz countertops, and grey cabinetry. Plumbing fixtures were also updated with a Kohler Corbelle toilet and sink and a Moen faucet and shower head. The bathtub is a Kohler Underscore Rectangle.

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

Shower Walls: Arizona Tile Cala Tresana 12"x24" Polished Tile Shower Floor: Arizona Tile Skyline Multi Finish 2"x2" Hex Bathroom Floor: Arizona Tile Invictus Cross Cut Beige 12"x24" Matte Tile Countertop / Shampoo Recess / Cap Of Shower Bench: MSI Calacatta Lavasa Cabinets: Koch Classic Bristol Birch Briarwood Cabinet Door Handles: Hayworth Knobs Cabinet Drawer Handles: Hayworth Pulls Shower Head: Delta Universal Showering 2.5 GPM Shower Trim: Delta Cassidy Thermostatic Valve Trim Bath Tub: Kohler Underscore 60" Drop In Sinks: Single Bowl Undermount Rectangle Sink Toilet: Toto Drake 1.28 GPF Grab Bar: Delta 12" Traditional Grab Bar Faucets: Delta Lahara Single Hole Bathroom Faucet Tub Filler: Signature Hardware Wall Mounted Tub Filler Robe Hooks: Delta Kayra Hand Shower: Delta Multi Function

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

This contemporary bathroom combines upscale finishes with traditional patterns and materials. It’s neutral color scheme of gray and white and touches of pale blue create a serene space. The 60” vanity in a rich, cherry finish is topped with River Blue Leather Granite and a double vessel sink with open waterway Chrome faucets. It has not one, but two bathing areas – both a shower and separate tub. The walk-in shower features elegant tile work with Mayfair Suave Bianco walls and Turkish gray pencil along with a stunning niche feature-area in Carrera Bella Pearl Basketweave tile. The Kohler Hydrorail with rain head and glass door complete this well-appointed shower. The tub repeats the design of the tile featured in the shower also with a Carrera Bella Pearl Basketweave feature area and a hand-shower completes the bathing experience. A bit of technology was included as the finishing touches to this stunning bathroom with a chrome towel warmer, Bluetooth LED fan/light, and a LED-backlit mirror.