Designer Dan Fink and Architect Carl Baker Turn a Napa Valley Ranch Into the Ultimate Family Getaway

Architect Damon Hills and his partner John Boschen transformed a derelict 1920s California bungalow in Northcote, purchased in 2013, into a modern, light-filled residence they now call the Light Box Home. The original property, a deceased estate, was in an unlivable condition due to neglect and significant odor issues, featuring an asbestos-ridden lean-to and an outdoor toilet. Despite its state, Hills recognized the potential of the house, situated in the desirable Sumner Estate near Merri Creek, an area known for its California bungalows. He appreciated the utilitarian design of bungalows and sought to preserve the home's classic facade while undertaking a comprehensive renovation. The renovation began with exterior modifications, replacing the pressed-metal roof with a corrugated-iron one, which was consistent with the original architectural style. Although constrained by heritage overlay regulations that prevented the addition of bay windows to the facade, the front two rooms, which now serve as the main and guest bedrooms, were retained. A key focus of the redesign was to enhance natural light, as the original house was notably dark. Hills addressed this by incorporating new windows on the sides of the front bedrooms and installing skylights throughout many rooms to maximize light penetration. The rotting blackbutt flooring in the wide hallway was replaced with new blackbutt, and a new bathroom was added behind the guest bedroom. This bathroom features a marble vanity, a luxurious tub, smaller wall tiles, and a herringbone floor pattern, with an innovative wet room design that places the bath beyond the shower to optimize space. The asbestos lean-to was demolished, making way for a new section of the house that includes a third guest bedroom (or study) and a powder room. This new area functions as a transitional space leading to a thoroughly modern living extension at the rear. The design accounted for the property's slope, utilizing it to create a slightly elevated new living section. This elevation allowed for the inclusion of clerestory windows around the top of the kitchen and dining areas, effectively filtering more light into the main living space. The modern kitchen is equipped with Miele appliances, a butler’s pantry, a concealed fridge, three ovens (standard, steam, and microwave combi), and a warming drawer. A notable design element is the oversized island bench with a bespoke linear light fixture above it, which provides illumination and defines the space. The lounge area features a fireplace and a discreetly integrated television that blends into a black background when off. Glass doors open to a north-facing wooden deck, while floor-to-ceiling windows at the back maximize morning light from the easterly aspect. The architect strategically placed larger windows on the northerly and easterly sides for optimal light, with smaller windows on the south and west. The home is fitted with hydronic floor heating and a single split-system air conditioner, relying on excellent insulation for climate control. Hills emphasized the personal challenge of designing his own home compared to client projects, noting the intense scrutiny of every detail. He described the home as a luxurious and spacious sanctuary, a place he looks forward to returning to, even from travel. The postscript details Hills’ observations on visitors' comments, highlighting the unexpected sense of space and the barn doors in the powder room and laundry. His favorite spot is an Arana armchair by Jardan in the living room, facing the fireplace, from which he can view the entire space. His favorite item is "The Mythical Galloping Faun" painting by Jodie Zomer, noting its constant movement and new discoveries upon each viewing. The Arana armchair is also his most sentimental piece, having moved with them through four houses. He expressed a dream of living in a New York City brownstone and described his entertaining style as simple dinners with friends, often concluding with a lemon tart from Babka in Fitzroy. For Hills, home signifies a place of relaxation and unwinding, a special and luxurious space that brings comfort and joy. #HomeRenovation #CaliforniaBungalow #LightBoxHome #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #NorthcoteRealEstate #DamonHills #SustainableDesign #LuxuryHome

Chris and Jenn Goode purchased their 1960s home in Alexandria's Villamay neighborhood primarily for its Potomac River views, despite its traditional style, dated finishes, limited lighting, and insufficient space for their three growing children, aged 9, 11, and 14. Their vision for the renovation was to transform the house into a spacious, rustic-chic sanctuary that offered enough individual space for every family member. Case Architects & Remodelers, led by director of project development April Case Underwood, was enlisted for the remodel. Underwood, having previously worked with the Goodes on their kitchen, understood their preference for a more transitional style. The original home was deemed outdated and lacked cohesion, especially for entertaining guests or accommodating three children preparing for school with only one shared bathroom. The renovation aimed to address these issues by expanding the living areas and updating the aesthetics to better suit the family's needs and style. A significant part of the renovation involved adding a two-story extension to the front of the house. This addition created a new primary bedroom suite for Chris and Jenn, which included dedicated his-and-her closets and a five-piece bathroom. The Goodes' daughter subsequently moved into the original primary suite. To accommodate their two sons, a one-story addition was built at the back of the home, featuring a new bedroom equipped with a Jack-and-Jill-style bathroom and walk-in closets. Additionally, a home gym with a rubberized floor was installed in the third garage bay at the base of the front addition. Indoor renovations were further complemented by the inclusion of a pocket office with a sliding glass door and a butler's pantry, which was outfitted with wall cabinets, open shelves, and wine fridges, enhancing both functionality and storage within the home. Although the kitchen's layout, counters, and backsplash from a previous renovation remained unchanged, the area received a refresh with new gold accents and a new faucet. A unique and personalized addition to the kitchen was a custom dog station for the family's goldendoodle, Dewey. This innovative feature, inspired by Jenn's mother, replaced a seldom-used cookbook bookcase. The dog station was designed for practicality and aesthetics, featuring a tiled area with built-in bowls, and a cabinet nearby for storing Dewey's food, treats, and medication. Its proximity to the kitchen sink allowed for the installation of a pot filler, simplifying the process of refilling water bowls. The exterior of the house underwent a dramatic transformation to align with the interior's rustic-chic design and the surrounding landscape. The original brick exterior was painted blue, and new shutters and wooden brackets were installed. Stone accents were added around the new garage bay to introduce texture. The renovation also incorporated a new front porch and a gable, contributing to a true Craftsman-style aesthetic. The Goodes praised the effective communication with Case Underwood, noting weekly meetings over several months that allowed for detailed planning and adjustments, ultimately bringing their vision to life. The cohesive design throughout the entire house made it feel like a brand-new home, satisfying the family's desire for a perfect, spacious living environment, and even attracting attention from passersby who stop to admire the renovation. #HomeRemodel #FairfaxCounty #CaseArchitectsRemodelers #RusticChic #HomeExpansion #InteriorDesign #ExteriorRenovation #FamilyHome

NASCAR champion Denny Hamlin's 30,000-square-foot Lake Norman residence in Cornelius stands as a remarkable synthesis of high-tech amenities and sophisticated design, moving beyond the typical 'man cave' stereotype. Completed in approximately two years, the project began in 2014 and involved a collaborative effort between Hamlin, builder Ted Thompson of Thompson Custom Building Group, architect JJ Barja of Elite Design Group, and designer Scott Carpenter. Hamlin's vision for his home emphasized a nuanced aesthetic: masculine yet inviting, elegant yet playful. The design team opted for a modern, West Coast-inspired style, partly influenced by the property's elevated waterfront position on Lake Norman. The facade features large, white bricks, evoking a Malibu aesthetic while aiming for a timeless rather than trendy appeal. Texture plays a significant role throughout the home, reflecting Hamlin's specific request. Elements such as grasscloth wall coverings, slate and subway tiles, and a subtle herringbone pattern in the dark walnut floors contribute to a rich tactile experience. The strategic use of walnut, contrasted with marble, glass, and metal, ensures a warm ambiance without resorting to overly masculine decor like heavy leather furniture. A central design marvel is the floating walnut staircase, which wraps around a glass elevator. This feature, inspired by European designs, presented a unique challenge in residential construction, requiring expertise from commercial contractors. The result is an architectural highlight that resembles a luxury hotel installation. The master bedroom, shared by Hamlin and his girlfriend, offers panoramic lake views through expansive windows, leveraging the property's height. The space is intentionally furnished with minimal pieces to keep the focus on the vista, creating an airy atmosphere. Carpenter custom-designed the bed, situated on an elevated platform. The master suite also includes distinct his-and-her water closets, leading to walk-in closets and a spacious marble bathroom. This opulent bathroom features a glass-walled shower and a soaking tub, separated by a fireplace, which adds both warmth and a focal point. A gold leaf light fixture above the tub demonstrates Carpenter's philosophy of mixing metals to create diverse visual interest. Beyond these refined spaces, the mansion incorporates high-tech and recreational features. The family room boasts an extensive media wall capable of simultaneously displaying five different programs on five screens. The entire home is integrated with an ELAN technology system, installed by Brian Berg of Interactive Interiors, making it easy for anyone to control lighting (including the helipad lights), TVs, and music via control panels or a smartphone app. Recreational facilities include a full-length indoor basketball court with an electronic scoreboard and a viewing platform, a two-lane bowling alley nicknamed “Victory Lanes,” and a dedicated area for Hamlin’s racing trophies and memorabilia. A highlight is the glass garage bay housing Hamlin’s Daytona 500-winning racecar, complete with victory confetti still adhering to its chassis. Purple and orange accents, mirroring Hamlin’s primary sponsor, FedEx, are subtly incorporated into these entertainment areas. The sheer scale of the 30,000-square-foot property was noted by the project team as the biggest challenge they had undertaken. #LuxuryHome #LakeNorman #DennyHamlin #NASCARDriver #CustomHomeDesign #HighTechHome #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

The article highlights the collaborative efforts of David Bieker, owner of Denali Custom Homes, and Jodie Unger, Director of Sales and Marketing, in creating a Designer Dream Home model. This unique rustic modern retreat is strategically located near the Minnehaha Creek headwaters off Grays Bay on Lake Minnetonka, boasting significant privacy and natural views. Bieker, with over two decades of experience in designing and building architecturally significant homes, partners with Unger, who brings a diverse background in art, interior design, and real estate, to offer a comprehensive and artistic approach to luxury housing. Their combined expertise allows them to bridge the communication gap between architects, contractors, and clients, ensuring a highly personalized and unique outcome for each homeowner. The featured Designer Dream Home is a testament to their integrated approach, showcasing a wide range of talents in the luxury housing market. Bieker’s vision for the property was inspired by its secluded location and the towering white pines, evoking a sense of being far north despite its proximity to Wayzata. He applied his extensive experience to guide the design team, treating the project as if it were his own residence. Unger further elaborates on the home's design, emphasizing its suitability for entertaining and seamless indoor/outdoor living. A notable feature is the four-season pool lounge, complete with a fireplace and wet bar, offering impressive vistas of Minnehaha Creek and Grays Bay. Denali Custom Homes prioritizes client advocacy throughout the entire home-building process, from initial contact to the final handover of keys. This commitment to client satisfaction is a cornerstone of their philosophy. The Designer Dream Home is scheduled to be available for public tours during the upcoming Artisan Home Tour in June, providing an opportunity for prospective buyers and enthusiasts to experience this meticulously crafted property firsthand. The article positions the home as a dream residence in a dream setting, poised to attract those seeking an exclusive and bespoke living experience on Lake Minnetonka. #DenaliCustomHomes #DavidBieker #JodieUnger #LuxuryHomes #CustomBuilder #LakeMinnetonka #HomeDesign #ArtisanHomeTour