This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

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

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

The East West House, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann and built by Red House Building, is a blend of Japanese and traditional Vermont architecture. The home is sited on a steep hill, the property is long and skinny with a stunning southern view. Each room was thoughtfully designed to have a unique relationship with the view; it’s intentionally different depending on which room you’re standing in. Space in the house is utilized to the fullest capacity; it’s all about connected rooms so that every space is occupiable. In that sense, it’s more a series of connected spaces.

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the building was erected on a shallow commercial lot between two 120 year old masonry buildings and a new residential rental building. 330 Grand Street is a mix of 725 SF 1BRs and 1050 SF 2BR apartments. It also contains a 1100 SF two story duplex as well as private and public rooftop space, large private balconies for most units and two large private terraces for the ground floor units. 330 Grand Street was originally designed and approved at the NYC DOB as a prefabricated modular building. During the pandemic, as shipping costs skyrocketed putting the project at risk, we suggested redesigning the building as a reinforced cast-in-place concrete structure. Concrete was readily available and prices had not been affected by the demand increase that many other materials suffered in the pandemic. We took this opportunity to raise floor to ceiling heights, enlarge high performance windows and redistribute the buildings MEPFS and Structural Systems to create very open floor plans. The challenge was to create a luxurious sensorial living experience with very limited means. In a city with very high construction costs, low cost residential buildings in the area are usually devoid of good quality, design and character. Our approach was to aim high for the end user, prioritizing natural light, open space with long visual perspectives, high ceilings and as always, rejecting the use of predefined building templates. Our biggest challenge was to ensure that the small spaces feel as clean cut, large and bright as possible. Several unique design decisions were made to ensure low cost and high quality; Floor plans were laid out so that spaces were wide open and free of clutter from mechanical or structural interruptions. Therefore all infrastructure was placed in lateral demising walls, which in turn act as the unit’s storage and kitchen. The apartments feel wide open, are super quiet and have more storage space than any other comparable apartment in the city. To solve the problem of the site’s shallow commercial lot which is typically prone to dark interior spaces we focused our attention on the building’s envelope. Instead of the usual small punched window openings, oversized high performance windows were designed to ensure that light penetrated as far as possible into the units. In the smaller 1BR units, the full 50’ depth of the lot is perceived by partitioning spaces with sliding pocket doors that can be retracted to allow deep visual perspectives, making the sight lines in the space feel longer, larger, more ample than normal. In addition to the full height glazing, each unit above the 2nd floor receives a 7 foot covered balcony, adding 120 to 240 sf to each apartment, something unusual in New York City buildings. The space is large enough for a full size dining table, when the weather permits being outside. We also worked hard to ensure modularity. For example, all kitchen units are all identical throughout the building. The idea of modularity and the economy of the repetitive unit is exercised to the maximum through the building. Hardware, appliances, flooring, wall coverings and material finishes are all carefully selected to feel bespoke, high quality and unique. It was important to KURV that the result of this work manifest into something that would deeply connect with the end user and sustain relationships with the consumers of this space. All images by KURV Architecture ©

Elevation changes in the landscape provide for unique spacial relationships between outdoor spaces.
Inspiration for a coastal home design remodel in San Luis Obispo

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

The East West House, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann and built by Red House Building, is a blend of Japanese and traditional Vermont architecture. The home is sited on a steep hill, the property is long and skinny with a stunning southern view. Each room was thoughtfully designed to have a unique relationship with the view; it’s intentionally different depending on which room you’re standing in. Space in the house is utilized to the fullest capacity; it’s all about connected rooms so that every space is occupiable. In that sense, it’s more a series of connected spaces.

The East West House, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann and built by Red House Building, is a blend of Japanese and traditional Vermont architecture. The home is sited on a steep hill, the property is long and skinny with a stunning southern view. Each room was thoughtfully designed to have a unique relationship with the view; it’s intentionally different depending on which room you’re standing in. Space in the house is utilized to the fullest capacity; it’s all about connected rooms so that every space is occupiable. In that sense, it’s more a series of connected spaces.

This designer client relationship is one based on friendship. Senior Designer Cori Dyer and client have an indescribable partnership and unmentioned understanding when it comes to decorating this home. A vintage charmer with a modern flair, filled with collectables and uncommon goods that make this space a unique and spectacular. Cori Dyer: I first met Sally when our boys became friends at Chaminade in 2007. Since then, we have stayed close and become great friends. Several years back she asked for my help giving her ideas on ways to spruce things up a bit and work with her on a major remodel. A little intimidating as Sally has a beautiful home and is an avid collector of vintage finds.... way before the trend of blending old and new was popular. She has an eye for unique ways to use vintage pieces and incorporating those into some of the most interesting and compelling displays. What has made this design relationship work is simply one of respect. I know when to give her that push outside of her comfort zone and incorporate her collections with selections that work with what she has, but that offer a new spin on putting it all together. From that initial "spruce up" has come a makeover in her Living Room and currently one completed in her Family Room. Although there are signs of my design throughout her home, the detail and selection of the collections and vintage finds are all Sally!! I truly think that is how Design should be. Blending old and new, and a Designer listening to what makes the client happy. Client: It was fun to be in style for a year or two, but it’s back to being the quirky lady. I started collecting in my teens and enjoy the hunt for new finds of all types. Cori helped me to enjoy my collections in a new and modern way! As always I had too many things. With her designer eye she taught me to blend the old and the new and to use different materials. The best part was going shopping with one of my best friends, who just happens to be a designer!! She is definitely the ying to my much needed yang.

The East West House, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann and built by Red House Building, is a blend of Japanese and traditional Vermont architecture. The home is sited on a steep hill, the property is long and skinny with a stunning southern view. Each room was thoughtfully designed to have a unique relationship with the view; it’s intentionally different depending on which room you’re standing in. Space in the house is utilized to the fullest capacity; it’s all about connected rooms so that every space is occupiable. In that sense, it’s more a series of connected spaces.

The Potrero Residence is the archetype for Architecture Office’s iterative process. Nestled in the Santa Monica mountains and surrounded by avocado farms, our client asked us to design a monumental hilltop home with views facing every direction and an underground ten car garage. We developed three concepts, choosing one developed by modelling a floorplate and populating it with cube forms. Using modelling software, we “sliced” the cubes at different points and rotated them across the plate. Via the interplay of these segmented cubes, this process created unique trapezoidal forms on each floorplate. Each floor in the Potrero residence functions as a unique relationship of forms and voids. In this building, each exterior-facing void⁠—the spaces between the rotated cubes⁠—is either walled with glass to create a floor to ceiling window, or subtracted to create a balcony. These punctures provide each exterior facing room in the house with a panoramic view over a different area of the property. The balconies give this home a variety of lighting conditions throughout the day, sometimes dark and sometimes light, reminiscent of cave dwellings. This design process creates a unique exterior wall across every face of the building. The driveway-facing facade is sculpted to resemble a traditional gable roofed house. Working around the house reveals a much more complex and digitally derived form. In the center of the house, a gem-shaped courtyard offers light within the relatively deep floor plates. Following the form building process, we developed a material solution using cast-in-place, board formed concrete—giving the house a weighty appearance and reinforcing its cave-like volumes. The rotated cube forms create diverse atmospheres within the interior, and singular aesthetic relationships to the exterior environment. Though grand in scale, our design process creates a fundamentally simple form, while the interior’s spatial conditions evoke the comforts of home.

The East West House, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann and built by Red House Building, is a blend of Japanese and traditional Vermont architecture. The home is sited on a steep hill, the property is long and skinny with a stunning southern view. Each room was thoughtfully designed to have a unique relationship with the view; it’s intentionally different depending on which room you’re standing in. Space in the house is utilized to the fullest capacity; it’s all about connected rooms so that every space is occupiable. In that sense, it’s more a series of connected spaces.

The East West House, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann and built by Red House Building, is a blend of Japanese and traditional Vermont architecture. The home is sited on a steep hill, the property is long and skinny with a stunning southern view. Each room was thoughtfully designed to have a unique relationship with the view; it’s intentionally different depending on which room you’re standing in. Space in the house is utilized to the fullest capacity; it’s all about connected rooms so that every space is occupiable. In that sense, it’s more a series of connected spaces.