Step into a space that seamlessly blends functional organization, relaxation, and a touch of fun. The renovation journey unfolded with a meticulous focus on the home's architecture, the client's design preferences, and the need for a practical yet stylish family environment. The primary bathroom takes center stage in promoting relaxation, featuring a spa-like ambiance with soothing colors, heated floors, a beautiful soaking tub, and gentle under-counter lighting creating a tranquil atmosphere. A cleverly integrated cabinet space is also available, providing a discreet storage solution for the less aesthetically pleasing litter box while ensuring easy access for our feline friends. In the kitchen, attention to detail shines through with a stunning wood-trimmed vent hood and wooden pulls that punctuate the Indigo Blue cabinets, introducing natural elements and a touch of warmth. Ample storage was a crucial requirement for this kitchen. Featuring expansive pull-out drawers, a concealed lazy Susan, impressive spice storage, and a discreet power source for the cordless vacuum, every detail has been considered for optimal functionality. Connected to the kitchen, you'll discover a dining area designed for versatility. This multipurpose zone seamlessly integrates wine storage, pantry space, a dedicated baking center, cocktail preparation area, and a convenient coffee zone. The main level's powder room pays homage to the homeowners' roots, boasting a vibrant wallpaper by Chasing Paper that adds a playful touch. The harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality continues with an additional mixed-use space that serves as a delightful getaway, complete with outdoor access and ample countertop space for both utility and enjoyment. This home is a testament to the artful fusion of design, comfort, and entertainment. Interior Design by: Jennifer Gardner Design Photography by: Emily Keeney

At 19 Irving Avenue, the living room unfolds as a quiet expression of Joseph Eichler’s belief that architecture should feel open, effortless, and deeply connected to its surroundings. Rather than being defined by walls, the space is shaped by light—expanses of glass draw the outdoors inward, allowing the landscape to become part of the room itself. 4 The room carries a sense of calm restraint. Clean lines, open sightlines, and a low horizontal profile create a grounded, almost meditative atmosphere. Overhead, the ceiling planes extend outward, reinforcing the home’s architectural rhythm, while the transparency of the walls dissolves any clear boundary between inside and out. It’s a space that feels expansive without ever feeling overwhelming. There’s an intentional lack of formality here. The living room doesn’t separate itself from the rest of the home—it flows naturally into adjacent spaces, encouraging movement, conversation, and connection. Light shifts throughout the day, casting subtle patterns across the surfaces and giving the room a sense of quiet motion. More than anything, this space reflects a turning point. In this living room, Eichler was refining an idea that would come to define his legacy: that a home could be modern without being rigid, open without losing intimacy, and designed not just to be seen—but to be lived in.

Ready for life to unfold! This busy family uses the entire main floor. Having good sitelines to the living spaces from the kitchen was important. We created a better flow for working in the kitchen, and for using the rest of the great room. We relocated the backyard access with double sliding doors to be out of the way of the main thoroughfare.

Set on a narrow hillside lot overlooking the San Francisco Bay in Point Richmond, California, Bay Heirloom is a Mid-Century Modern family home restored, modernized and adapted for contemporary living. Oriented south-southwest toward the Marin Headlands, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the residence captures shifting Bay light throughout the day, from fog-muted mornings to vivid, glowing sunsets. The home was built by Karlyn Neel’s grandfather, the owner of the construction company Flo-Crete, one of the Bay Area’s early concrete pumping firms. Flo-Crete completed the foundation and structural concrete work, with family photographs documenting the original cinderblock walls and pours. The firm also contributed to major regional infrastructure projects, including the Transbay BART tube and Candlestick Park, situating the house within a broader legacy of Bay Area construction. Growing up, Neel spent considerable time in the home, developing an early appreciation for mid-century modern principles. Instead of parting with this family heirloom, she purchased the home from her grandfather’s estate. While her grandfather continued to live in the Point Richmond house, Neel purchased a Mid-Century Modern residence in Palm Desert. In contrast to the Bay Area’s cool temperatures, salt air, and persistent winds, the desert home is shaped by heat and sun and requires a different material response. A substantial renovation she led there emphasized thermal performance, filtered light, and restrained detailing. The experience later informed the restoration of her Bay Area family home. What began as a modest Mid-Century Modern update expanded when decades of exposure to marine conditions revealed leaks and significant structural and seismic deficiencies. Neel was determined to honor her grandfather’s perseverance and without hesitation pivoted to a much more intensive project. Addressing these challenges required close coordination between Neel, Klopf Architecture and Kasten Builders, with architectural restraint and construction precision guiding each intervention. Rather than alter the home’s defining features, the project focused on reinforcing the structure from within. Discreet beams were embedded along the rear facade and in an upstairs wall, strengthening the building while maximizing the wall of glass facing the Bay and opening the wall between the kitchen and the living space. These structural interventions allowed the space to open fully to the Bay without visual interruption, with the kitchen repositioned as the social and functional core of an open, continuous living space. The building envelope was updated using weather- and corrosion-resistant materials appropriate to the marine environment. The house unfolds vertically from the street, beginning with a modest garage level and workshop, with the main living spaces located below. Original slate flooring at the entry was preserved, along with select furnishings and artwork collected by Neel’s grandfather, anchoring the restored interior in its past. A restrained palette of black accents and pale, natural finishes replaces darker wood tones, reinforcing openness and calm. A naturally illuminated stair connects to the lowest level, where a former basement was transformed into a guest suite and family room opening onto a deck. From there, steps lead directly to a small concrete boat ramp at the water’s edge. Throughout the project, decisions were guided by continuity rather than transformation for its own sake. Lessons drawn from both desert and coastal climates informed a material strategy rooted in performance and restraint. Bay Heirloom stands as a measured evolution of a family house, structurally renewed and carefully modernized, grounded in the discipline and care that first shaped it. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA, Angela Todorova and Fernanda Bernardes Landscape Architect: Huettl Landscape Architecture General Contractor: Kasten Builders Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2022 Location: Point Richmond, CA

The priority for this project was to open up the compartmentalized spaces so that there was better flow and access to all the natural light. Walls were removed and by getting rid of darker finishes/cabinets and some low ceilings the living spaces brightened up. New flooring, paint, cabinets, furniture, and lighting all lend themselves to a fresh approach to living comfortably without sacrificing aesthetics. It was an absolute pleasure to watch this transformation unfold.

As you walk in, the main floor unfolds into a seamless living experience. Walls and columns were expertly removed to reveal a voluminous, open-concept great room. Natural light filters through generous windows, illuminating layers of sophisticated textures and warm neutral tones. The thoughtfully integrated millwork subtly divides the space without disrupting flow, while elegant sconces above the breakfast nook infuse intimacy—creating a serene yet inviting atmosphere. At the heart of the home sits a striking, oversized kitchen arrangement featuring dual islands: one devoted to food prep, the other to gathering and conversation. The islands are finished in complementary palettes—one light, one dark—mirroring the balance of materials and colors across the open floor plan. This innovative layout fosters community and showcases design depth through thoughtful texture layering, from stone countertops to artisanal hardware. Swatch’s signature layering approach brings dimension and warmth throughout these interconnected rooms. Subtle pops of earthy hues alongside jewel-tone accents are woven through upholstery, decorative lighting, and artwork. Organic elements like wood flooring and natural stone surfaces reinforce the Modern European aesthetic: clean lines with a lived-in elegance, where each material choice feels intentional and inviting . Styled to feel luxurious yet approachable, the space features a discussed blend of classic European elegance and contemporary comfort. Plush fabrics—such as velvet cushions and soft linens—contrast simple, modern furniture silhouettes. Freestanding lantern-style pendants and delicate sconces enhance ambiance throughout, while curated décor from different European influences tells a rich, nuanced design story.

The basement unfolds as a multifaceted space, plush carpets offers comfort and warmth, while a designated area showcases a beautiful hardwood floor. The lighting casts a welcoming glow throughout the open expanse.

This home located on an exceptional South Village corner enjoys lake, waterfall and fairway views of the 4th hole and 5th tee. The entry pavilion’s lily pond introduces a water theme that unfolds with a loggia beside the swimming pool. The carriage house contains a guest suite with kitchenette and porch overlooking the lake and fairways. Below, a ground floor loggia with summer kitchen and half bath is convenient to the pool courtyard. Photograph Jessica Glynn. Copyright Windsor.

These bathroom renovations unfold a story of renewal, where once-quaint bathrooms are now super spacious, with no shortage of storage solutions, and distinctive tile designs for a touch of contemporary opulence. With an emphasis on modernity, these revamped bathrooms are the perfect place to get ready in the morning, enjoy a luxurious self-care moment, and unwind in the evenings!

Set on 88th Street in Manhattan's Upper East Side, this four-bedroom residence was created by merging two separate condominium units into a single, cohesive luxury home. The result is a sprawling, artful space defined by confidence, color, and a deeply personal design vocabulary. The project represents a full-service interior design engagement: spatial planning, material selection, furniture sourcing, artwork curation, and complete project coordination. Nearly every element was specified and placed by Mazen Designs, with furnishings sourced largely through Roche Bobois. The home unfolds from a striking cross-shaped hallway anchored by a custom T-shaped rug that guides movement through the space. To one side, the primary bedroom suite. To the other, a flexible home office that doubles as a guest suite, and a tranquil secondary bedroom. Straight ahead, a streamlined kitchen opens to a formal dining area and beyond that, a dedicated media and Mah Jong room designed for relaxed gathering. The palette balances jewel tones with crisp whites and greys. Bold in intention but disciplined in execution. A Maya Romanoff wall covering and curated artwork complete the layering of texture, light, and silhouette throughout. The clients arrived hesitant toward color. Through open dialogue and a shared trust in design as storytelling, they left with a home that reflects genuine courage and clarity. Photography by Vincent Dale of Vincent Dale Designs.

The steps next to the stair are honey onyx. The top box unfolds into an architect's mobile desk. CVA photography.
Living room - mid-sized mediterranean open concept light wood floor living room idea in Chicago

Nestled within the exclusive Bison Bluff subdivision of Promontory, this stunning 5,166-square-foot residence epitomizes luxury mountain living. Offering breathtaking mountain views and unparalleled privacy, this meticulously designed home is a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility The expansive, open floor plan is an entertainer's dream, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. The great room, with its soaring high ceilings and commanding stone fireplace, serves as the heart of the home, where gatherings naturally unfold in a space bathed in natural light. The main level master suite is a private retreat, designed with the utmost attention to detail, while the loft office provides a serene environment for work or reflection, framed by panoramic views. Descending to the lower level, you’ll find two additional bedrooms, each thoughtfully designed to offer comfort and privacy. A board-formed concrete wine wall welcomes guests into a private and modern speakeasy, replete with a copper bar, golf simulator, and gathering space. The home also features versatile bonus rooms and ample storage, adding to its practicality and appeal. Outdoors, the back deck serves as a peaceful haven, offering shade from the sun and a seamless connection to the surrounding natural beauty. The marriage of natural wood and stone elements between the indoor and outdoor spaces creates a grounding, harmonious aesthetic that invites relaxation. This residence is perfectly positioned just a short drive from Promontory’s world-class amenities, including the beach club, tubing hill, pool, spa, gym, tennis courts, and multiple clubhouses. For those seeking even more entertainment, The Shed offers indoor basketball, bowling, and a 53-seat theater, while the kids’ cabin and ice skating rink provide endless fun for all ages.

The Petal & Poppy Home is a vibrant, collected family residence defined by bold color, layered pattern, and a confident sense of personality. Designed over several years as the young family grew, the home reflects an evolving story rooted in warmth, creativity, and a love of expressive interiors. Color guided the design from the outset. A blue grasscloth dining room and an existing pink Persian rug in the formal living room became the foundation for a palette that unfolded organically throughout the home. With clients eager to mix patterns and embrace saturated hues, the design process focused on contrast, cohesion, and joyful self-expression. The entry makes an immediate statement with a playful spotted stair runner, oversized artwork, and a high-gloss black handrail that introduces graphic contrast. The formal living room, designed for entertaining, is the moodiest space in the home. Dark garnet walls and a commissioned piece by local artist Carrie Gillen create a dramatic backdrop, while pink tweed swivel chairs and a tailored charcoal sofa complete a space designed for lingering. Beyond French doors, the home office is an immersive mix of pattern and color, with wallpaper wrapping both walls and ceiling. A leopard carpet and modern crystal chandelier add a touch of glamour, resulting in a space that feels energizing and personal. The dining room continues the confident use of blue, layering patterns around a custom round pedestal table designed for everyday meals and gatherings alike. At the heart of the home, the family room was designed for togetherness. A bright blue sectional anchors the space, complemented by custom ottomans on hidden casters and softened with tailored throw pillows. Existing bookshelves are refreshed with a Peter Fasano wallcovering, creating a collected, lived-in backdrop. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a softer expression of color, blending blues, oranges, and pinks, while built-in window benches add moments of comfort. The children’s bedrooms balance playfulness with longevity, layered with color and texture designed to grow alongside them. The Petal & Poppy Home is a celebration of color, creativity, and family life—an interior that feels intentionally layered, expressive, and deeply personal, designed to evolve over time.

"We just love it. Everyday I sit here and look out this window or sit on this porch and just revel in the color that’s unfolding. And the bird activity! I'm a birder so... it's just stunning." California native sages, grasses, wildflowers & low-water mediterranean climate pollinator plants.

In the heart of Cottingham Street, a journey began—an endeavor to transform a tired, outdated kitchen into a space of modern charm and functional elegance. It all started with a dream, perhaps born over Sunday breakfast conversations or inspired by glossy magazine spreads. You imagined more than just a room; you envisioned a hub, a place where culinary creativity and family gatherings intertwine seamlessly. First came the consultations, where ideas danced between you and skilled designers, each conversation weaving threads of imagination and practicality. With blueprints in hand and dreams in mind, you ventured into the world of permits and regulations, navigating the bureaucratic maze to ensure your vision could take shape within the constraints of the law. Demolition day arrived with a symphony of hammers and saws, marking the end of an era and the dawn of a new one. Out went the old, worn cabinets and outdated appliances, making space for the promise of something fresh and exciting. Dust danced in the sunlight filtering through the windows, a metaphor for the transformation unfolding before your eyes. Amidst the rubble, craftsmen toiled, laying the groundwork for your culinary sanctuary. Pipes were rerouted, wires reconfigured, and walls reshaped, each task bringing you closer to the realization of your dream. It was a dance of precision and expertise, a symphony of progress conducted by skilled hands. And then, like magic, the pieces began to fall into place. Cabinets rose from the floor like sentinels of style, countertops gleamed with the promise of countless meals shared, and appliances hummed with the anticipation of culinary adventures yet to come. Light flooded the space, casting shadows of possibility across every surface. With a fresh coat of paint and a flourish of finishing touches, your kitchen emerged from its cocoon of renovation, transformed into a space that felt uniquely yours. It was more than just a room; it was a reflection of your personality, your taste, and your vision for the future. As the final inspections were conducted and the last details attended to, you stood in the doorway of your new kitchen, a smile spreading across your face. Here, in this space of beauty and functionality, memories would be made, meals shared, and laughter echoed off the walls. It was a journey from start to finish, a testament to the power of vision and the magic of transformation. And it all began on Cottingham Street.

Eichler X-100 Entry: A Threshold Between Architecture and Experience The entry to the Eichler X-100 is not a conventional front door—it’s an intentional transition, a carefully choreographed sequence that shifts you from the outside world into a fully immersive architectural environment. Designed by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons for Joseph Eichler, the entry reflects a core principle of Eichler design: arrival should be felt, not just seen. A Garden Before the Door Rather than approaching a traditional façade, visitors are guided into an entry courtyard—a private, inward-facing space that immediately softens the transition from street to home. This space acts as a buffer, both visually and emotionally, creating a sense of calm and separation. The path is often defined by concrete stepping pads set within planted areas, reinforcing the home’s circular and geometric design language. Movement becomes deliberate—slowed, grounded, and connected to the landscape. Light as a Guide Above, translucent skylights filter natural light into the entry sequence, creating shifting patterns of brightness and shadow throughout the day. This interplay of light transforms the entry into something dynamic—never static, always evolving. Rather than a single moment, the entry unfolds over time. Blurring Interior and Exterior The X-100’s entry challenges the idea of where the home actually begins. With interior gardens visible from the moment you arrive, the boundary between outside and inside becomes intentionally ambiguous. Glass, open sightlines, and planted spaces work together so that by the time you reach the front door, you are already inside the architectural experience. A Compressed-to-Open Reveal True to mid-century modern design principles, the entry creates a subtle sense of compression before release. The approach is quiet and modest—almost understated—before opening into the expansive, light-filled interior beyond. This contrast heightens the impact of arrival, making the interior feel even more dramatic. A Philosophy of Arrival The Eichler X-100 entry is not about grandeur—it’s about intention. It invites you to slow down, to notice light, material, and landscape, and to engage with the home on a deeper level. It’s a reminder that in great architecture, even the act of entering becomes part of the design itself.

This four-story Victorian revival was amazing to see unfold; from replacing the foundation, building out the 1st floor, hoisting structural steel into place, and upgrading to in-floor radiant heat. This gorgeous “Old Lady” got all the bells and whistles. This quintessential Victorian presented itself with all the complications imaginable when bringing an early 1900’s home back to life. Our favorite task? The Custom woodwork: hand carving and installing over 200 florets to match historical home details. Anyone would be hard-pressed to see the transitions from existing to new, but we invite you to come and try for yourselves!

This very modern black kitchen features a monolithic feel with a large double island to entertain and function well. The framed out appliance wall becomes a form in the architecture as well. The forms unfold. Exposed structure and tiny cable rail lights along with full views of ocean and pool lanai area make this space amazing to cook, dine and just occupy.

Recently, we embarked on a design project to redesign the entry landscaping with the timeless beauty of a Japanese garden, emphasizing Tsukiyama earth mounding. This technique, which involves sculpting gentle, rolling hills to reflect natural landscapes, brought a new dimension of tranquility and depth to the space. By integrating a minimalist planting aesthetic and organic, dissolving lines, we achieved a seamless fusion of serenity with modern sophistication. The transformed entryway now greets visitors with unfolding views that perfectly complements the home’s treehouse views into Nichols Arboretum.