Our returning clients, middle-aged professionals, reached out to us to remodel their bathrooms as they transition from raising children to focusing on their own comfort and living space. They asked us to modernize their ensuite and shared bathroom, both of which had become outdated and impractical for their current needs. In the ensuite bathroom, we removed a partition wall to redesign and expand the shower and toilet areas, creating a spacious open-concept layout. We added custom cabinetry with pull-out pantries, finished in a bright paint, and a large linear perimeter for ample storage and countertop space. The countertops and backsplash feature dusk veining, paired with brushed nickel sinks, faucets, and cabinet hardware, giving the space a contemporary yet timeless update. A new curbless glass enclosure adds a striking focal point, while the removal of an underused angled jetted tub creates space for an elegant freestanding tub. In the shared bathroom, we replaced the tub with a modern curbed shower and enhanced the aesthetic with large, colorful porcelain floor tiles that tie together the artistic essence of the home. The result is a significantly more functional and visually appealing space that reflects our clients' unique style and needs.

A Kitchen Made for Gathering The kitchen was already a well-loved space, so instead of starting from scratch, we gave it a thoughtful refresh by refinishing the existing cabinets, making a few modifications, and updating the color for a fresh, elevated look. To add extra dimension and warmth, we installed cubbies with LED lighting above the cabinets; this not only served to give the space some visual variety but also helped open the space up and give it a more airy feeling when you walk in. The island was expanded to create more space for gathering. To tie it all together, we paired the perfect countertop stone with a mosaic backsplash that adds timeless character.

Multiple gables, a center dormer with arched clerestory window, and a striking front staircase create visual excitement for this three bedroom coastal home. Vaulted ceilings in the foyer and great room highlight a dramatic second floor balcony that connects the two upstairs bedrooms, each with its own bath and private porch. The great room is generously proportioned with built-ins on either side of the fireplace and access to a spacious rear deck, which expands the room even more. Private back porches enhance the dining room and the master suite as well. The master suite boasts his and her walk-in closets and a magnificent bath with dual vanities, a garden tub, and separate shower.

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

2011 CHRYSALIS AWARD WINNER, ADDITION $100,000-$250,000 The owners of this small rambler in Arlington were tired of living in cramped quarters. The home’s kitchen was only 8’ x 11’ and they wanted to add a family room. Because the home is built on a slab, with no basement, the decision was made to expand out into the backyard. Their contractor, Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, proposed an addition to back of the home, which would also be built on a slab to match the existing elevation. To make room, they had to remove the home’s original patio and then remove the 30’ wall running across the back of the home. In their place, a new 16’x32’ addition was built with high cathedral ceilings, skylights and French doors topped with arched transoms. An archway and decorative columns were put in place to connect the old and new areas. The new kitchen starts in the old kitchen area and wraps its way into the new addition, ending with a large two-tier island and prep sink topped with exotic granite. The main sink is in the corner of the old kitchen, easily accessible from both ends of the work area. Beautiful custom-made cabinets include a wooden range hood and floor-to-ceiling pantry with wine rack. Stainless steel Energy Star appliances include a professional-quality gas cooktop and double wall ovens. The kitchen flows into the new family room via an open concept design. A beautiful floor-to-ceiling natural stone fire place located in the middle of the back wall serves as a visual separation for the space. A round window is uniquely embedded in the stone work near the ceiling. Wide plank oak flooring runs the length of the room, providing a uniform look throughout the space. Opposite the kitchen is the home’s new family room, with comfortable leather seating and plenty of windows to brighten up the space. A new stone patio off the kitchen provides the finishing touch to this remodel. In the end, the project provided the homeowners with the space they wanted and plenty of amenities to make family time or entertaining guests a pleasure.

We are so excited to announce that our showroom in The Home Gallery has a beautiful and brand new Coffee/Media Center cabinet display. It is the perfect addition to any: -kitchen, as a pantry or media center -living room, as a entertainment/bar unit -walk-in closet -or business looking to expand on their company/client hands on interaction. It allows a friendly and direct visual exchange of ideas in high definition of a SMART TV, while maintaining a relaxed and personable atmosphere between business and client! We invite you to come in and check out our meticulously designed and professionally installed new unit. For more information and to see this unit up close, we invite you stop by Wayne's Custom Woodcraft! Bring your smartphone and interact with our Coffee/Media Center! See you soon!

Our approach to the dining room wall was a key decision for the entire project. The wall was load bearing and the homeowners considered only removing half of it. In the end, keeping the overall open concept design was important to the homeowners, therefore we installed a load bearing beam in the ceiling. The beam was finished with drywall to be cohesive so it looked like it was a part of the original design. Now that the kitchen and dining room were open, paint colors were used to designate the spaces and create visual boundaries. This made each area feel like it’s its own space without using any structures. The original L-shaped kitchen was cut short because of bay windows that overlooked the backyard patio. These windows were lost in the space and not functional; they were replaced with double French doors leading onto the patio. A brick layer was brought in to patch up the window swap and now it looks like the French doors always existed. New crown molding was installed throughout and painted to match the kitchen cabinets. This window/door replacement allowed for a large pantry cabinet to be installed next to the refrigerator which was not in the old cabinet configuration. The replaced perimeter cabinets host custom storage solutions, like a mixer stand, spice organization, recycling center and functional corner cabinet with pull out shelving. The perimeter kitchen cabinets are painted with a glaze and the island is a cherry stain with glaze to amplify the raised panel door style. We tripled the size of the kitchen island to expand countertop space. It seats five people and hosts charging stations for the family’s busy lifestyle. It was important that the cooktop in the island had a built in downdraft system because the homeowners did not want a ventilation hood in the center of the kitchen because it would obscure the open concept design. The countertops are quartz and feature an under mount granite composite kitchen sink with a low divide center. The kitchen faucet, which features hands free and touch technology, and an instant hot water dispenser were added for convenience because of the homeowners’ busy lifestyle. The backsplash is a favorite, with a teal and red glass mosaic basket weave design. It stands out and holds its own among the expansive kitchen cabinets. All recessed, under cabinet and decorative lights were installed on dimmer switches to allow the homeowners to adjust the lighting in each space of the project. All exterior and interior door hardware, hinges and knobs were replaced in oil rubbed bronze to match the dark stain throughout the space. The entire first floor remodel project uses 12x24 ceramic tile laid in a herringbone pattern. Since tile is typically cold, the flooring was also heated from below. This will also help with the homeowners’ original heating issues. When accessorizing the kitchen, we used functional, everyday items the homeowners use like cutting boards, canisters for dry goods and place settings on the island. Ultimately, this project transformed their small, outdated kitchen into an expansive and functional workspace.

Casual yet elegant, the Etra Collection by Modern Outdoor offers a modern aesthetic that is constructed for outdoor use while being suitable for indoor settings. Etra’s visual inspiration is derived from its architectural-based frame system. Designed using structural angle steel that is mitered and ground, a clean and seamless surface gives Etra its pure appeal. Frame Options: • 304 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished • marine-grade 316 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished for use within one mile of salt air, available for an upcharge • powder coated carbon steel in our standard silver finish • custom powder coat colors, available for an upcharge Surface Options: • sustainably harvested ipe – a beautiful South American hardwood that is three times as dense as teak — naturally resistant to rot, insects, UV exposure, ice, salt, abrasion and splintering – all without the need for toxic chemicals — considered a 25+ year wood • marine-grade polyboard – a UV stabilized high-density polyethylene material that is non-corrosive and chip resistant – available in six colors for expanded design choices Fabric Options: • six standard colors of 100% solution dyed acrylic treated for outdoor use are offered • custom fabrics and COM service are also available Cushion Options: • our standard foam cushions are made from outdoor appropriate high-resiliency (HR) foam • for clients that prefer less maintenance, a flow-through foam that allows water and moisture to escape the cushion is also available for an upcharge Etra is a full-breadth line with dining, bar height, lounge, cafe, patio and pool setting pieces included. The pieces are readily customizable for individual client needs.

This family room features a glass fireplace with a wooden mantle, sliding doors to outdoor areas, a chandelier, T.V. hookup over the fireplace, and an open concept plan with the kitchen. the ceiling is raised in one area to highlight the spacious family area. A window is one the opposite wall of the sliding doors allowing natural light to enter the family room. Wall sconces and an exposed beam add comfort to the rustic style. The base boards are done in white, which lightens and expands the space visually.

Elegant home design photo in Boston

The original kitchen island was undersized, offering seating for only two and limiting both workspace and entertaining potential. By thoughtfully repositioning the adjacent breakfast area, the renovation created room to significantly enlarge the island, allowing comfortable seating for three while preserving generous traffic flow throughout the kitchen. The expanded island now serves as the functional heart of the home, providing ample space for meal preparation, casual dining, and gathering with family and friends. To further enhance both storage and entertaining, the wall cabinetry was extended to seamlessly incorporate a dedicated beverage refrigerator and a custom glass-front stemware cabinet. These integrated features create a sophisticated beverage station while keeping crystal stemware beautifully displayed, organized, and conveniently accessible for everyday enjoyment and gracious entertaining. A custom upholstered dining bench transformed the breakfast nook into one of the most inviting spaces in the home. By maximizing seating without increasing the room's footprint, the banquette offers exceptional comfort for everyday meals, morning coffee, and relaxed family gatherings. It has quickly become the homeowner's favorite place to sit, demonstrating how thoughtful furniture selection can elevate both function and comfort. The sliding glass doors leading to the outdoor living area were finished with softly textured sheer drapery in a tone that harmonizes with the wall color. These elegant window treatments gently diffuse intense natural sunlight while preserving outdoor views, adding softness, warmth, and visual texture to the kitchen. The sheers enhance the bright, airy atmosphere while contributing to the refined, layered aesthetic that defines this luxury kitchen renovation.

The Master Bathroom feels more luxurious after we expanded the vanity space and visually lengthened the room with the installation of a glass shower enclosure.

A bungalow with a series of small rooms was opened up and a new roof system was added to allow for a vaulted ceiling in the main areas. The spaces were greatly expanded and allows for greater interaction between family and visiting friends. An enclosed stair case was opened up and moved to a more central location to offer the opportunity for a larger kitchen and open visual point from the front of the house to the back. Even though the dining room is open, it has an intimate feeling being separated from the other spaces with a walk through pantry and bar area. A gold dining fixture anchors the dining table and includes black accents and tile from the entry to tie it together.

While Cantoni’s Founder & CEO, Michael Wilkov (aka MW) was away at the fall 2014 High Point Market, Cantoni’s Dallas Visuals Team came out to play…spearheading the secret operation known as “MW’s Office Makeover,” Anne Mancuso gathered her troops to give the big boss’ office a serious and much needed facelift in just 4 days! To read the full story, visit the Cantoni Blog here: http://cantoni.com/blog/2014/11/office-makeover/ Photos by David DeLeon

Multiple gables, a center dormer with arched clerestory window, and a striking front staircase create visual excitement for this three bedroom coastal home. Vaulted ceilings in the foyer and great room highlight a dramatic second floor balcony that connects the two upstairs bedrooms, each with its own bath and private porch. The great room is generously proportioned with built-ins on either side of the fireplace and access to a spacious rear deck, which expands the room even more. Private back porches enhance the dining room and the master suite as well. The master suite boasts his and her walk-in closets and a magnificent bath with dual vanities, a garden tub, and separate shower.

The goal for this 1939 Tudor-style story-and-a-half home was to create a kitchen that offered the conveniences, storage, and performance of a modern workspace while preserving the warmth, craftsmanship, and vintage charm that made the home special. The client, an avid home cook, wanted the room to feel as though it had always belonged to the house, with thoughtful upgrades that respected the original architecture rather than competing with it. Just as important, she needed a more efficient layout with enough storage for small appliances, so everyday cooking would no longer require carrying items up from the lower level. Several existing conditions shaped the design approach. The kitchen retained original, amber-stained birch woodwork that the client wished to keep, and the compact footprint was interrupted by six doorways and two windows, none of which were to be moved, altered, or replaced. A previous flooring update had left the door casings undercut too short, creating visible gaps where the casing met the floor. The existing vintage 40-inch range also lacked proper ventilation, yet the client wished to accommodate a refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop, double ovens, built-in microwave, and effective venting above the cooktop into the new kitchen layout. To honor the original millwork, beaded inset-style cherry cabinetry was selected in a soft, hand-rubbed finish that will deepen over time and develop a natural patina. Charcoal-gray soapstone countertops complement the cabinetry while reinforcing the historic character of the home with an organic, timeworn texture. The former breakfast nook was transformed into a butler’s pantry, adding valuable base cabinet storage and expanded work surfaces for frequently used small appliances. Also in the butler’s pantry, a single upper cabinet was paired with open shelves to give an open, airy feeling while adding character and practical storage. A classic single-bowl apron-front workstation sink contributes both period-appropriate character and practical prep and cleanup function. Because the home’s openings were such a defining feature, the design worked within the existing architecture instead of altering it. Custom plinth blocks were created for each doorway to extend the original casing gracefully down to the new natural red oak flooring, resolving the earlier construction issue while adding a detail that feels authentic to the age of the house. Despite the number of door and window openings, the new layout provides a significantly more functional, built-in kitchen with an improved work triangle for serious cooking. Appliance placement was carefully planned to deliver the requested performance without overwhelming the small room. Three cooking functions (double ovens & microwave) were consolidated into one location with a GE Café double oven featuring Advantium Technology, while the client’s compact 31-inch refrigerator was reused to preserve space. A sleek 30-inch induction cooktop provides efficient cooking, and a Vent-A-Hood ARS ductless vent hood supplies needed ventilation without requiring a duct run to the exterior. The finish palette balances richness, texture, and historical sensitivity. A deeply textured navy backsplash tile adds depth and dramatic shadow play against the soapstone, while wallpaper in the back entry echoes the tile’s geometric pattern to visually connect the adjoining spaces. Oil-rubbed bronze cabinet hardware and light fixtures enhance the warmth of the cherry cabinetry and complete the antique-inspired feel. Lighting was layered to make the compact kitchen brighter, more useful, and more inviting. Vintage-style semi-flush ceiling fixtures establish the overall tone, while dimmable puck lights highlight select areas and undercabinet task lighting keeps work surfaces well illuminated. The completed kitchen now feels both highly functional and deeply rooted in the home’s history. Rich cherry cabinetry, velvety soapstone, natural red oak flooring, navy tile, bronze accents, and carefully preserved birch trim work together to create a warm, cohesive space that celebrates timeless craftsmanship. By increasing storage, improving workflow, integrating modern appliances, and respecting the Tudor home’s original character, the design achieves the client’s vision: a kitchen that feels personal, practical, historically appropriate, and as though it has always been there.

Stretching seamlessly toward the bay, this striking infinity pool anchors a luxurious waterfront escape, where modern architecture and tropical landscape blend in perfect harmony. The pool’s sleek tile edge creates a mirror-like reflection, enhancing its visual connection to the open water beyond. Flanked by crisp white stone decking and geometric turf inlays, the outdoor living space is crafted for both relaxation and upscale entertaining. Elevated lounge chairs invite sun-soaked leisure beside a mosaic-clad fire feature, while shaded seating and a built-in grill station expand the home's alfresco amenities. Architectural columns detailed with soft green panels frame the poolside verandas, adding a distinctive coastal charm to the modern villa’s façade. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, this customized patio and poolscape showcase a refined balance of elegance, functionality, and waterfront luxury.

Looking for more space to entertain guests, our homeowners asked us to help transform their longtime dream into reality. Their “must-haves” included a large gathering room for entertaining and hosting events, and a primary bedroom suite in which to relax. The bedroom suite with walk in closet and private bath was designed with both elegance and functionality in mind. A washer / dryer closet was enclosed in the bathroom to make laundry day a breeze. The kitchen received added sparkle with minor alterations. By widening the entrance from the original kitchen/breakfast room to the addition we created a new space that flowed seamlessly from the existing house, appearing original to the home. We visually connected the new and existing spaces with wide-plank flooring for a cohesive look. Their spacious yard was well-configured for an addition at the back of the home; however, landscape preparation required storm water management before undertaking construction. Outdoor living was enhanced with a two-level deck, accessible from both the primary suite and living room. A covered roof on the upper level created a cozy space to watch the game on tv, dine outside, or enjoy a summer storm, shielded from the rain. The uncovered lower deck level was designed for outdoor entertainment, well suited for a future firepit. Delighted with the realization of their vision, our homeowners have expanded their indoor/outdoor living space by 90%.

We initiated a significant aesthetic transformation by eliminating the non-structural stairwell wall. This pivotal change dramatically expanded the space, resulting in a far more visually appealing environment. Additionally, we strategically relocated the bedroom entry point, effectively converting the entire adjacent wall into a functional kitchen cabinet space, as opposed to a passageway to the bedrooms.