A Pointy, Cantilevered Extension Enhances a ’60s Home on a Rocky Inlet

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

Steffen Welsch Architects were tasked with expanding a 1930s, 1,291-square-foot Californian bungalow in Melbourne to accommodate a growing family and frequent guests. The clients sought increased space alongside sustainability, flexible interiors, evolving privacy considerations, and future accessibility. The architectural solution involved adding a 1,259-square-foot rammed earth wing that sweeps off the back of the original house, curving along the property line to maximize solar gain and create a communal courtyard. The design divides the home into four distinct zones. The existing bungalow now serves as the children and guest area, comprising two bedrooms, a playroom, and bathrooms. Each zone in the expanded home features its own outdoor space. The architects strategically positioned the new addition to capture sunlight, forming a central courtyard that allows occupants to view their own home rather than a boundary fence, addressing the challenge of a south-facing extension on a compact inner-city block. Sustainability was a core principle, focusing on minimizing both embodied and operational energy. This was achieved through passive solar design, optimal building orientation, high-performance windows and doors, and the use of rammed earth. Rammed earth was chosen for its low embodied energy and its contribution to the building's thermal mass. An entry hall connects the original bungalow to the addition, leading to the new master suite. Built-in storage, clad in charred wood, was incorporated for flexible use and accessibility. The connecting corridor, featuring polished concrete screed floors, leads to shared living spaces, with high clerestory windows in the rammed earth walls providing ample natural light. A study is integrated into this corridor with external access, and an interior window from the kitchen overlooks the study and hall. The shared living spaces open onto the communal courtyard through a curved glass wall. The kitchen features flat-front cabinetry and round backsplash tiles with a pastel glaze. Material selection emphasized functionality and user interaction, with a focus on solar heat radiation, natural ventilation, and durable surfaces. The bathroom incorporates wood-paneled walls that echo the rammed earth striations, using wormy chestnut and recycled blackbutt for the counter. The playroom, located in the original house, also faces the new courtyard. The addition's design thoughtfully combines the lightweight timber-clad aesthetic of the original bungalow with the robust character of earth construction, creating a home that is both functional and aesthetically harmonized with its surroundings. #HomeDesign #RammedEarth #SustainableArchitecture #BungalowExtension #MelbourneArchitecture #FamilyHome #PassiveSolarDesign #FlexibleLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation

Zen Architects undertook a significant renovation of a family home in Melbourne, Australia, which the owners had occupied for over two decades. The original 2,150-square-foot house, characterized by a square, four-rooms-deep, and four-rooms-wide floor plan, suffered from poor natural light penetration and a lack of connection to its garden. The central areas were dark and underutilized, prompting the residents to arrange furniture along the perimeter in an attempt to be closer to the outdoors. The renovation aimed to resolve these issues by introducing a curved glass extension, drawing inspiration from the curvilinear designs of the nearby Mount Eagle Estate, established in 1914 by Marion Mahoney and Walter Burley Griffin. The architectural intervention involved sculpting a curved glass void into the living area, specifically designed to funnel light and nature deep into the home's interior. This new structure was carefully integrated behind the existing heritage facade and within the original footprint, minimizing its impact on the established garden and streetscape. The curved glass element brings the garden closer to all living spaces, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The family room was repositioned at the heart of the home, with the kitchen and dining area wrapping around the northern side of the new glass facade. The kitchen features reeded glass window backsplashes that softly filter light, while rounded edges on the timber joinery and benchtops create an open and inviting atmosphere. A high-level window in the dining area introduces dappled northwest light, partially obscured by tall pine trees outside. Deep eaves around the glass facade provide protection from intense summer sun, yet allow the winter sun to align with the teardrop-shaped extension, offering panoramic views as it descends. On the opposite side of the curving glass, a sunken living room receives abundant northern light, which radiates over the teardrop form. The lowered floor in this area, combined with a consistent ceiling height, creates a distinct sense of coziness and verticality, contrasting with the expansive and horizontal feel of the main living area. This variation in volume offers a fresh perspective of the landscape, with a specific window framing a centuries-old pre-settlement mahogany gum tree. The front section of the house was modernized and repurposed to accommodate an office and the main bedroom, complete with a walk-in robe and en suite. Two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry area are situated along the southern side, now occupying better-proportioned rooms than in the original layout. The detailing and finishes from the kitchen are consistently applied throughout the wet areas of the house. Externally, a terrace and deck extend around the living areas, integrating the house with the sloping terrain and embedding it within the landscape. The deliberate absence of balustrades facilitates a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. The material palette for the renovation, including off-white dry-pressed brick and dark stone flooring, was chosen to complement the predominantly masonry and stone residences found in the estate. These robust materials are softened by timber cladding, decking, and ceilings, reflecting the presence of significant gum trees. This material selection contributes to a warm, natural, and cozy interior that emphasizes the vibrant greens of the surrounding garden, drawing attention to the natural setting. #HomeRenovation #MelbourneArchitecture #CurvedGlassExtension #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernDesign #NaturalLight #ZenArchitects #GardenIntegration #SustainableDesign

This blog post details the transformation of a three-story brick row house in South Slope, Brooklyn, into a bright and functional single-family home. The owners, a young family, sought to address the common issue of dark interiors found in many brownstones and desired additional living space. Architect Philipp von Dalwig of vonDALWIG Architecture spearheaded the renovation, which involved a significant gut-renovation and the construction of a two-story rear extension. The project began with a comprehensive demolition, removing a garden apartment and nearly all original interior structures, while preserving the main staircase. All mechanical systems were updated. The core of the renovation focused on maximizing natural light and expanding the living area. The new two-story extension features larger window and door openings, complemented by an array of skylights. These design elements effectively channel light into the central areas of the building, eliminating the previously dark ambiance. The front entry of the house remains on the parlor level, leading to a bay-windowed living room at the front. A central library and playroom, equipped with a book-lined niche and built-in seating, caters to the homeowners' two small children. The dining room and kitchen are situated on the upper level of the new duplex extension. A notable design feature is an opening in the floor towards the rear, which creates a double-height, multi-purpose space that connects visually to the garden level below. Pivot doors offer direct access to the garden from this lower level. The garden level also includes a guest room and bath at the front, along with a media room. The upper floors house the family bedrooms, a laundry area, and two new bathrooms. A deck off the master bedroom sits atop the new addition, providing outdoor space. Material selections and specific features are highlighted throughout the article. White engineered oak from LV Wood was used for the flooring. The kitchen, visible from the library/play niche, incorporates appliances primarily from Miele and pendant lights from Apparatus. A powder room is discreetly placed behind flush refrigerator and pantry storage. The kitchen's center island is crafted from Marini Marni, a natural stone from Italy, sourced through ABC Stone. The opening in the floor, which creates the double-height space, is secured with netting similar to that used for soccer goals, set into custom steel rails. Pendant lights from Flos illuminate this area. The exterior of the extension features a subtle geometric pattern applied to the stucco with a trowel, designed to create varying visual effects with the changing sunlight. The double-height space downstairs is described as a "robust functional space" suitable for entertaining and art projects, with its floor and custom elements, including a rectangular sink, made from the same terrazzo-like Italian stone as the kitchen counter. The downstairs media room includes storage beneath a stone-topped seating ledge and a wood-burning fireplace. The project successfully transformed a dark, traditional row house into a bright, spacious, and highly functional modern home, addressing the clients' desire for increased natural light and additional square footage through thoughtful architectural design and material choices. #TownhouseRenovation #SouthSlope #ArchitecturalDesign #RearExtension #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #BrooklynRealEstate #ResidentialArchitecture

This article details a renovation project by Studio Ben Allen, focusing on a Victorian terraced house in York, England. The project involves extending the brick home by adding two barrel vaults, also constructed from brick, to the rear garden. This extension seamlessly integrates with the existing architecture while introducing modern elements. The newly created double-arched space houses the kitchen and a small dining area. To maintain a connection with the outdoors and preserve greenery, the extension incorporates a courtyard enclosed by glass doors and sliders on three sides. This design choice allows natural light to permeate the interior and offers a visual link to the garden. A recurring motif of arches is present throughout the home, extending beyond the external barrel vaults. Inside, arched cubbies are featured underneath the concrete sink, providing stylish storage solutions in the kitchen. In the main floor bathroom, tall mirrors with curved tops are installed above a double vanity, echoing the arch theme. Despite the consistent use of arches, the design avoids monotony, instead imparting a classic charm to the home. The interior design employs a mix of materials to create a fresh yet warm aesthetic. Raw concrete is used for the kitchen counter, complemented by polished concrete floors. The original brick walls are maintained, adding texture and historical character, while oak cupboards and shelving introduce warmth and a touch of natural elegance. This combination of materials and architectural details ensures the home feels contemporary without losing its inherent classic appeal. The renovation exemplifies how modern architectural interventions can respect and enhance the character of historic buildings. Studio Ben Allen's approach demonstrates a thoughtful balance between old and new, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. The emphasis on natural light, material selection, and the continuation of architectural themes contributes to a cohesive and inviting environment. #VictorianArchitecture #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalExtension #BrickDesign #VaultedCeilings #InteriorDesign #MaterialMixing #StudioBenAllen #EnglandArchitecture

Field Architecture has completed a coastal home in Big Sur, California, characterized by chiseled stone walls and extensive glass, designed to immerse residents in nature. Situated on a rugged peninsula along the Pacific Ocean, the house's layout follows the natural topography, aligning with the cliff face and forming sheltered garden courtyards that provide protection from the elements. The site features existing cypress trees and a ravine, which the house integrates into its design. The residence is conceptually divided into two main sections by the ravine. One side hosts a traditional Japanese entrance pavilion, known as a genkan, while the other contains the primary living spaces of the main house. These two parts are connected by a glass-enclosed bridge that spans the ravine, creating a dynamic transition and offering framed views of the surrounding landscape, thus enhancing the connection between the inhabitants and their natural environment. The design emphasizes orchestrated movement through the house to continually present residents with views of nature. Rising two levels, the home is oriented to the west to maximize panoramic views of the ocean. In contrast, the eastern portion of the structure is partially embedded into the site, housing more private and sheltered rooms. A central kitchen features a sculptural island with organic forms, complementing the natural aesthetic of the home, and adjoins a terrace and an infinity pool, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The material palette primarily consists of wood and stone, chosen for their complementary textures and qualities that echo the local landscape. Facades are clad in quarried limestone, laid in thin courses to mimic the striations found in the region's cliffs. The walls are faceted, resembling chiseled rocky outcrops, which further integrates the architecture with its rugged surroundings. A thin roof plane extends beyond the building's footprint, offering protection from the sun and wind while large expanses of glass allow for expansive views and ample natural light. Clerestory windows, positioned between the walls and roof, ensure continuous natural light throughout the day and across seasons, illuminating the interior spaces. Inside, wide-plank flooring made from reclaimed teak provides a calm and cohesive foundation. Teak is also utilized for the exterior deck and an engawa—a wooden or bamboo ledge typically found in Japanese architecture—which runs along the northern elevation of the main house, facing the ravine. This element further reinforces the architectural dialogue with nature and Japanese design principles. Field Architecture, a firm led by Stan and Jess Field, has a portfolio of California projects including a copper-clad Sonoma Valley house and a synagogue in Palo Alto with a salvaged wood lattice. #FieldArchitecture #BigSurHouse #CaliforniaArchitecture #CoastalHomeDesign #SustainableMaterials #ModernArchitecture #NatureIntegration #LuxuryHomes #ResidentialDesign

Caroline Edwards and Nicholas Kraft embarked on a comprehensive remodel of their Laurel Canyon home, initially planning only a primary bathroom tub addition. This vision expanded significantly, influenced by their designer Gianpiero Gaglione’s enthusiasm and the couple's penchant for large projects. Kraft, a film and television producer and co-founder of Chain, already had an established connection with Gaglione through shared pastimes. The project aimed to embody the breezy, bohemian spirit of Laurel Canyon, a neighborhood renowned for its history with musicians like the Doors and Joni Mitchell. A key objective was to respect the home's original 1950s post-and-beam architecture, ensuring that no element felt overtly 'new or renovated.' Perched on stilts amidst a dense canopy of trees, the residence features large windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape and distant hills. Edwards, a podcast agent, emphasized the desire to maintain a 'cozy-but-chic treehouse feeling,' insisting that all renovations appear as if they had always been part of the home. This commitment to an aged aesthetic led to a unique challenge during the kitchen renovation, where their tiler quit due to the couple's demand for imperfect, non-flush tile work for the backsplash. To achieve an old-world charm, the design incorporated vintage knobs and pulls, live-edge wood vanities, cane doors for built-ins, and woven rush details on the kitchen island. Even the balustrade was custom-designed, drawing inspiration from the 1930s. The kitchen, despite being entirely new, was meticulously crafted to appear aged, featuring sage cabinetry and rustic brick tiles around the range, each field-cut and treated to look worn. Vinyl window trims and baseboards throughout the house were upgraded to white oak, and club chairs, inherited from Edwards’s grandfather, were reupholstered in a tropical bird print, a subtle homage to Los Angeles's sunny climate. Living in the canyon presented a challenge with earlier sunsets and frequent overcast skies. To counteract this, the couple sought solutions for evening lighting. Given the post-and-beam structure lacked attic space, flush-mounted lights were installed by drilling through the sandblasted cedar ceilings, creating a 'profoundly beautiful halo effect.' Gaglione further enhanced natural light penetration by replacing a timber dining room door with large sliding glass partitions. Edwards particularly enjoys the primary bathroom, transformed from a small space with only a shower cubicle and single vanity into a tranquil retreat with a freestanding tub and double vanity. This expansion was skillfully achieved by incorporating a window, maximizing the available space. A unique outdoor shower, offering an open-air experience, is highlighted as the ultimate feature, encapsulating the adventurous spirit of Laurel Canyon living. The renovation successfully blended historical respect with modern comfort, creating a home that feels both established and intimately connected to its natural and cultural surroundings. #HomeTour #LaurelCanyon #InteriorDesign #Renovation #BohemianStyle #MidCenturyModern #RusticCharm #CustomCabinetry #VintageInspired

In 2001, Marion and Jeffery Barker purchased a 1960s brick ranch home on 18 acres in Virginia's Northern Neck, overlooking Nomini Creek, a tributary of the Potomac. Despite the house being outdated and the timing of the purchase—just a week after 9/11—being uncertain, the couple was drawn to the property's prime waterfront location and its manageable two-hour drive from their Bethesda residence, making it ideal for weekend escapes. At the time, Marion owned the consulting firm Palladian Partners, and Jeffery was a scientist at the National Institutes of Health. They envisioned transforming the modest ranch into a modern dream home but knew it would require significant time and resources. After saving for 15 years, the Barkers initiated a gradual redesign in 2016, enlisting Jeffery’s daughter, Brooklyn architect Alexandra Barker, for the project. A key challenge was environmental regulations, which mandated that the new structure adhere to the existing foundation and original footprint due to its proximity to the water. Despite these constraints, the renovated home represents a dramatic transformation from its original, cramped layout. The new design emphasizes an open floor plan, extensive walls of windows, and expansive water views, creating a stark contrast to the previous structure. Alexandra Barker's design strategy focused on maximizing the property's natural surroundings. She incorporated oversized storefront glass instead of standard residential windows to offer uninterrupted vistas, a feature she considers the home's most special detail. The architect also prioritized the use of locally sourced materials where possible, including granite for the kitchen backsplash from Richmond, reclaimed-oak floors, and bluestone around the pool area. This approach not only supported local businesses but also integrated the home more deeply with its regional environment. The homeowners, Marion and Jeffery, were described by Alexandra as highly collaborative and flexible clients, contributing to a smooth design process. An added benefit for Alexandra was the prospect of personally enjoying the finished product with her family. The redesigned home includes three guest rooms, each with an en suite bathroom, providing comfortable accommodation for visiting family members, including Alexandra and her siblings. The primary suite, located on the second floor, is a highlight, featuring 365-degree views and access to a private roof deck. This rooftop space, initially intended for an office, was repurposed due to budget considerations and ultimately became one of the owners' favorite features. The renovation was completed in 2021, and the retired couple, Marion and Jeffery, expressed that the two-decade wait was worthwhile. They now share their property with local wildlife, including bald eagles, deer, ospreys, and otters. The constant natural beauty, particularly the sunrises and sunsets over Nomini Creek, provides immense satisfaction, with Jeffery reportedly having captured hundreds of photographs of these daily spectacles. The project successfully converted a dated ranch into a modern, waterfront marvel that harmonizes with its natural setting. #HomeRenovation #ModernDesign #WaterfrontProperty #ArchitecturalTransformation #VirginiaRealEstate #SustainableMaterials #BeforeAndAfter #FamilyProject #NorthernNeck

Robson Rak Architects have crafted their third rammed earth house on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, a sprawling residence deeply integrated into its natural surroundings. The design emphasizes a sense of solidity and embeddedness, largely achieved through the extensive use of rammed earth. This material choice was central to the clients' brief for a low-maintenance home on their ten-acre plot, a preference shared by the architects for its pure, inside-out building quality, where the material itself forms both interior and exterior finishes. The house is considered a subtle monument, possessing enduring qualities without ostentatious grandeur. Initially, the clients envisioned a symmetrical, rectangular modernist building, but the architects, Kathryn Robson and Chris Rak, felt this design wouldn't adequately respond to the site's unique characteristics. Instead, they proposed a design that broke up the rigid rectangular form, introducing level changes and manipulating the edges to create a more dynamic and textured structure. Despite these modifications, the architects maintain that the house retains a modernist sensibility, albeit one that extends and adapts rather than adhering to a simple, gallery-like cube. Perched at the highest point of the site, the house maintains a low, lean profile, appearing to settle into the earth. Its southern facade features a tiered design, descending into the site with a series of single and double steps, a deliberate strategy to work with the natural slope of the land and create a gentle, quiet presence. The orientation of the house was influenced by a tall plane tree, which became a focal point for a large window in the main bedroom. From this central point, the house extends westward, incorporating a central volume for living, dining, and kitchen areas. A parents' retreat is located at the eastern end, a second living zone to the west, and three additional bedrooms line the northern edge. A terrace spans the southern side, offering views of a fernery at the lower part of the property. The southern orientation is a distinctive feature, designed to avoid the harshness of direct sunlight. The clients preferred a softer, ambient light, which the architects achieved through various strategies, including deep eaves, narrow clerestory windows, and a trio of skylights above the kitchen. These elements not only control light but also introduce diverse lighting conditions throughout the spaces. The design incorporates intimate pockets, such as a window seat next to a fireplace, which benefits from ample sunlight. The entry, an understated three-sided forecourt paved with sleepers and compressed gravel, is another notable space, praised for its quietness and symmetry. The interior design reflects these same qualities, utilizing a restrained palette of earth, glass, timber, and concrete. The materials are harmoniously combined, with slender aluminum window frames contrasting with the substantial four-hundred-millimetre rammed earth walls and polished concrete floors. Greyed timber surfaces, including a central spine wall that cleverly conceals services difficult to integrate into rammed earth, add texture. The architectural focus was on texture rather than vibrant colors or patterns, aiming for an easy-to-live-in space that feels earthy, tactile, and warm, yet timeless. Custom details, such as a bespoke front door handle crafted from found brass objects by an artist friend of the client and custom-designed side tables by Chris Rak, who has a background in sculpture, enhance the home's unique character. The children's bathroom features a carefully proportioned freestanding vanity set back from the wall to allow for floor-to-ceiling windows and linen curtains. The kitchen includes a central island encased in purple-grey tiles for socializing and a discreet butler's kitchen behind a sliding door for practical, everyday use, equipped with a second set of appliances, stainless steel benches, and ample storage. The success of the project is attributed to the exceptional site, a well-defined brief, and a collaborative relationship between the architects and the client. #RammedEarthHouse #RobsonRakArchitects #MorningtonPeninsula #SustainableArchitecture #ModernistDesign #LowMaintenanceHome #NaturalLightDesign #CustomDetails #InteriorDesign #SiteResponsiveArchitecture

Lisa and Gary Mieran, owners of Akyrah Kitchens, designed and largely built their two-storey, industrial-style home with modernist influences in Gympie, Queensland. The house, completed in December 2019 after a two-stage construction, is situated on land historically owned by Lisa's family. The design draws inspiration from Heide II, a modernist icon in Melbourne, celebrating concrete, timber, abundant light, and earthy tones. Lisa envisioned a home that would rise organically from the earth, becoming an integral part of the landscape and improving with age. The structure features off-form concrete, walls of glass, and tactile timbers, with the lower storey clad in cedar and the upper storey in recycled hardwood. Steel balustrading, handcrafted by Gary, complements the exterior, which also includes a swimming pool with Andorra limestone pavers. The interior features a breezeway offering spectacular views and airflow, with ceilings made of Henley Oak Grove engineered timber. The foyer includes a BassamFellows 'Geometric' day bed and artworks by Steve Waller. Given their expertise with Akyrah Kitchens, the kitchen in their home is a highlight, featuring blackbutt veneer doors, Basaltina benchtops, Circa taps from Brodware, and Inax 'Ceravio G' tiles. The living areas include a guest sitting area with a B&B Italia 'Le Bambole' sofa and a living room with a Cheminées Philippe fireplace and Jardan furnishings. The home was built in two stages to accommodate their grown children, Taren and Kirra. The first stage was a self-contained flat, which served as their temporary residence during the main build and now functions as a guest wing. The main house and another guest wing are connected by glassed walkways, with the main bedroom suite located upstairs. This design allows for three self-contained bedrooms with ensuites, providing private quarters for everyone while centralizing communal living spaces. Practicality and functionality are key design principles, evident in the integrated laundry within the bathroom behind a blackbutt joinery feature wall, and the kitchen's two large islands designed for simplicity and ample storage. The materials used throughout the home emphasize natural elements. Recycled timber is used for the upper storey and blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the seamless flow of concrete from exterior to interior reinforces the architectural aesthetic. The home is designed for climate control, with generous light for winter warmth and cross-breezes for summer cooling. Lisa also undertook the landscaping, incorporating native plants like Xanthorrhoea, pandanus, native grasses, and succulents. The furniture, much of it Australian-made from brands like Jardan, is chosen for its timeless appeal and durability, reflecting the couple's preference for classic design over fleeting trends. The house stands as a testament to the couple's comprehensive involvement and shared vision, combining their professional skills with personal passions to create a harmonious and functional living space. #ModernistArchitecture #IndustrialStyle #ConcreteDesign #TimberAccents #SustainableMaterials #HomeDesign #OwnerBuilt #QueenslandHome #InteriorDesign

House Howley, designed by Mark Szczerbicki Design Studio, is an extension and restoration of a Californian bungalow in Rodd Point, Sydney. The project emphasizes informality, openness, and a strong connection to the outdoors, echoing the original intent of Californian bungalow architecture. The existing bungalow, previously untouched for fifty years except for a series of awkward additions at the back, was transformed to create a modern family home for new owners and their three young children. The design team's brief was to incorporate specific required spaces and functionalities, while also selecting durable materials. Beyond these requirements, the studio was given creative freedom to develop the architectural form, volume, and plan, aligning with complying development standards. The design strategy involved creating spatial transitions that gradually morph the building from its traditional front, featuring the existing gabled roof, to a contemporary two-storey extension at the rear. These new and existing forms are strategically arranged around a central courtyard, which optimizes northern sun exposure to the back of the house. The interior spaces and their relationships were meticulously refined to suit the clients' desired lifestyle. The two-storey addition is discreetly positioned, largely unseen from the street, extending behind and atop the original structure. The roof design progresses from a pitched terracotta-tiled profile that matches the existing bungalow, through terraced sections of terracotta and corrugated steel, culminating in a contemporary gable form at the rear with an off-centre ridge and obtuse angle. The original bungalow has been carefully restored, preserving its street presence, original mouldings, materials, and the traditional character of distinct, cozy rooms. This section of the house accommodates the family room, guest room, study, and updated bathroom and laundry facilities, which blend modern styling with vintage elements. The new addition houses the kitchen, dining, and living areas, which are oriented around the central courtyard and open directly to a covered outdoor space, garden, and swimming pool. The bedrooms and additional bathrooms are located on the upper floor. Key design elements include the meticulous attention to angles in transitional areas between the old and new sections. A subtly splayed glazed wall and stairwell, along with a chamfered kitchen wall, introduce an informal aesthetic, integrate garden views, and establish clear sightlines between adjoining spaces. The kitchen serves as a central hub, offering comprehensive views of the courtyard, garden, and even the carport via a glass splashback. A double-sided fireplace delineates the dining and living areas, while stacking glass doors provide access to both the courtyard and garden. The interior features a neutral and minimal palette, designed to highlight the vibrant colors of the garden, which is an integral visual element from every vantage point. The garden, conceived by Melissa Wilson Landscape Architects, also progresses through various zones, with plantings that complement both the heritage bungalow and the contemporary extension. The material selection balances the old and new, incorporating low-maintenance options such as polished concrete floors, black cedar joinery, brown timber veneer, and white aluminum window and door frames. Shiplap cedar cladding extends from the exterior into the living room ceiling, and reclaimed brickwork from previous additions is used for the ground floor of the extension, with a painted section and an exposed feature wall in the dining area. The stairs, with spotted gum timber treads, connect the levels and offer dynamic views throughout the house. The upper floor includes a hallway leading to children's bedrooms, a bathroom, and a main bedroom with an ensuite, walk-in robe, and balcony overlooking the garden and pool. The overall design prioritizes generosity of space and functional relationships, reflecting the informal and open spirit of the original Californian bungalow, while ensuring thermal comfort and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. #CalifornianBungalow #HomeExtension #ResidentialArchitecture #SydneyDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #Renovation #ContemporaryDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #FamilyHome

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

Water features in home environments are gaining popularity for their aesthetic appeal and significant wellness benefits, both mental and physical. Sean So, founder and principal of Water Studio, notes a growing trend in both indoor and outdoor water installations, with many clients seeking to replicate public space designs in their homes. These features contribute to mental well-being by reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting relaxation, a phenomenon often linked to the calming effect of 'blue space,' as highlighted by sports medicine physician Gregory Charlop, M.D. Physically, water features can offer health advantages, such as the muscle recovery and inflammation reduction associated with cold water immersion, though Charlop cautions against cold plunges for untrained individuals due to potential cardiac risks. Conversely, warmer water temperatures in hot tubs and spas are beneficial for muscle relaxation. Popular water features include indoor water walls that offer dramatic visual appeal with minimal space requirements, and outdoor falling streams that provide tranquil sounds. Architects Phil Kean and Danny Wang frequently incorporate these elements into their designs. Kean mentions sheer descent fountains on feature walls as a common request, while Wang's popular features include water feature walls, fountains, and reflection ponds. Water features also serve practical purposes, such as acting as natural noise barriers against busy roads, enhancing privacy, and even blocking unsightly views. Enhancements like lighting, music, and fog effects can elevate the ambiance. Kean describes creating glass-top water tables for poolside dining, incorporating LED lighting for a magical evening effect. Automated systems for refilling, timing lights and pumps, and controlling flow are also popular for convenience and customization. Water specialists can upgrade existing features, provided the basin is leak-free, by adding modern sculptures or low-splash water walls. Despite their benefits, water features require careful planning and maintenance to avoid safety hazards and potential water damage. Sean So stresses the importance of working with experienced firms that thoroughly test installations. Gregory Charlop emphasizes the need to consider water quality, sanitation, and temperature regulation to prevent infections and injuries, recommending regular professional check-ups. The integration of water features into home design not only adds architectural flair and real estate value but also contributes significantly to the residents' overall wellness. #HomeDesign #WaterFeatures #WellnessBenefits #ArchitecturalFlair #RealEstateEnhancements #IndoorWaterFeatures #OutdoorWaterFeatures #HomeWellness #LuxuryHome

This blog post explores a 5,445-square-foot Bethany Beach home designed by C&E;, a third-generation interior design studio led by Kate Winnington. The design ethos, described as 'coastal and elevated,' deliberately moves away from stereotypical kitschy coastal aesthetics, opting instead for elegance, luxury, and warmth. Situated on Fenwick Island, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and a picturesque bay, the home seamlessly integrates its natural environment into its design. A central goal of the project was to blend modern architectural elements with the inherent oceanside atmosphere. Winnington aimed for an organic and earthy feel, layering various natural textures and maintaining a relatively neutral color palette. Subtle modern touches were incorporated to enhance the overall design without overpowering the coastal essence. This approach is evident in an entryway alcove, featuring wooden cladding, a custom console table, a modern mirror, and a carefully placed light fixture, all contributing to the 'coastal modern' aesthetic. Texture plays a crucial role in the home's design, evolving naturally throughout the project as outdoor views influenced interior choices. The space showcases a rich array of natural and nature-inspired textures, including weathered wood, a limewash-finish fireplace, boucle armchairs, and natural stone. This symphony of textures contributes to an earthy, inviting atmosphere, making the neutral color palette more dynamic and elevated. Winnington emphasizes that achieving the right balance of shades and textures is vital to creating a sophisticated space. The design continuously acknowledges the strong influence of the beach environment, ensuring that all elements complement rather than compete with the outdoor views. The neutral color palette and textures are directly inspired by the natural tones outside, implemented subtly to prevent them from dominating the scenery. Winnington's favorite room, the custom-built kitchen, exemplifies this philosophy with natural stone counters and backsplash, wooden cabinetry, open shelving, and a mix of gold and matte black hardware. She highlights the kitchen as a key investment area in a home, given its central role in daily life. The article also discusses how organic elements can be incorporated into any home, regardless of location. Winnington suggests using natural fibers and textures like jute, bamboo, cane, and rush in rugs and mixed-material furniture to introduce an earthy and organic feel. While most of the home maintains a neutral palette, the main bedroom diverges with dark, moody black paneled walls combined with a wood-clad ceiling and a textured bedframe. This bolder choice creates a cozy, retreat-like ambiance, demonstrating that master bedrooms are ideal spaces for design experimentation due to their function-forward nature and relative size. Finally, the integration of C&E;'s own furniture line into the design was seamless, with pieces thoughtfully selected to enhance the nature-inspired aesthetic. Winnington notes that such projects often see elements falling into place effortlessly, making the furnishing process intuitive. The furniture, including outdoor sofas and streamlined wooden coffee tables, reflects a sculptural quality through curves, details, and mixed materials. This Delaware home serves as a prime example of coastal modern style, balancing elevated design with an appreciation for its natural surroundings. #CoastalModernDesign #InteriorDesign #BeachsideHome #OrganicDesign #NeutralPalette #NaturalTextures #CustomKitchen #MoodLighting #DelawareHome