Magical Japanese-inspired lake house with spectacular gardens for sale

The 'Kusatsu House' in Shiga, Japan, designed by Hearth Architects, is a family home structured in an L-shape to embrace a central, tree-planted courtyard. This architectural decision was driven by the clients' desire for a home with a garden where family members could relax and interact, fostering a sense of togetherness. The L-shaped layout effectively integrates nature into the common living areas, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere within an otherwise understated interior palette. The design thoughtfully connects the indoor and outdoor spaces through extensive floor-to-ceiling openings, allowing abundant natural light to penetrate the home and blurring the lines between the interior and exterior environments. This approach enhances the feeling of openness while maintaining privacy. To balance openness with the need for seclusion, the veranda is enclosed by a concrete wall, offering a more private and introverted outdoor space. The design also incorporates traditional Japanese architectural elements, particularly evident in the courtyard. A wooden strip of flooring extends from the interior, effectively expanding the living area into the garden, providing a dedicated space for relaxation and connection with nature. The interiors are characterized by warm, natural tones, and a deliberate absence of excessive decoration, contributing to a minimalist and serene aesthetic. A notable feature is a small, separate Japanese-style room, which fulfills a specific client request. This room is distinguished by its vibrant colors, traditional tatami flooring, and an opaque opening that allows dim light to enter without compromising privacy. The project details confirm that the Kusatsu House was completed in February 2020. It spans a site area of 160.41 square meters, with a building area of 65.21 square meters and a total floor area of 99.36 square meters. Photography for the project was done by Yuta Yamada. Hearth Architects successfully met the clients' brief by creating a harmonious living environment that celebrates both communal interaction and individual privacy, all while deeply connecting with its natural surroundings through thoughtful design and traditional influences. The house stands as a contemporary example of Japanese residential architecture that prioritizes natural light, spatial fluidity, and a calm, inviting atmosphere. #LShapedHouse #HearthArchitects #KusatsuHouse #JapaneseArchitecture #CourtyardDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #IndoorOutdoorLiving #MinimalistInterior

Architects Lebel & Bouliane designed a ground-up residence in Scarborough, Ontario, drawing inspiration from the dramatic Scarborough Bluffs, a geological formation bordering Lake Ontario. The design aimed to evoke both stone and water, using materials that reflect the natural surroundings. The clients, a couple with three young children and an extended live-in family, sought a home that could accommodate multi-generational living, offering both shared spaces for family life and private bedroom suites, with a vision to age in place within the residence. The project, named Meadowcliffe House, was completed over several years, benefiting from the architects' prior experience with similar multi-generational homes featuring extensive stone. Meadowcliffe House is characterized by its dramatic structure, featuring a pair of stone volumes that frame a three-story central atrium. This atrium not only floods the interior with daylight but also offers unobstructed views of Lake Ontario from the moment one enters the front door. The limestone used for the residence was carefully selected and quarried in Owen Sound, Ontario, with Luc Bouliane personally choosing veins for consistency. The stone pieces were meticulously cut and mitered at the quarry for seamless integration between the exterior and interior, reinforcing the connection to the home's natural environment. In addition to limestone, the architects incorporated stainless steel, glass, bronze, and wood to create a flexible and accessible dwelling. The 7,750-square-foot residence encompasses 29 rooms, including six distinct bedroom suites spread across three levels. The ground floor is specifically designed for family gatherings and larger events, featuring a living area that opens directly onto an infinity pool. The interior design emphasizes natural elements, with furnishings kept minimal to complement the architecture and surrounding landscape. Lebel explains that the focus was on simplicity, texture, and scale, utilizing materials such as walnut, oak, metal, and glass, while textiles remained neutral and muted. The property also prioritized the preservation of natural landscape features, retaining over two dozen mature trees and reintroducing native plant species to blend with the Scarborough Bluffs environment. The project successfully created intimate spaces for the immediate family while also providing areas suitable for larger gatherings with extended family members. The master bedroom, for instance, offers expansive views of the lake, enhancing the connection to the natural setting. The use of natural Algonquin Limestone, personally selected by Bouliane, covers 6,350 square feet, ensuring a consistent aesthetic throughout. Notable interior pieces include walnut dining chairs, a table, and a bench by hollis+morris, and a large ash and walnut coffee table by Atelier Dimo, sourced through Montauk Sofa. The integration of the house with its site, the consideration for multi-generational living, and the deliberate material palette highlight the architects' approach to creating a home that is both aesthetically integrated with its surroundings and functionally adaptable for its occupants over time. #ResidentialArchitecture #MultiGenerationalLiving #LakeOntario #ScarboroughBluffs #LebelBouliane #LimestoneConstruction #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome

SHED Architecture & Design has completed the Cupertino Courtyard House in a quiet Cupertino, California neighborhood. The residence, situated near Apple’s campus and the city’s Eichler district, blends local architectural heritage with a modern aesthetic, standing apart from its Mission and Spanish Colonial-style surroundings. The exterior features white stucco landscape walls, referencing Mediterranean vernacular, combined with a dark, charred-wood upper volume clad in shou sugi ban, presenting a contemporary sensibility. The entry sequence begins with a slatted wood gate, leading to a secluded courtyard and a recessed “genkan,” a traditional Japanese threshold for removing shoes. The interior of the home is organized around a series of courtyards, which frame views of the outdoors and are integrated into the living spaces through floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This design approach blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing natural light to illuminate the plaster walls and oak finishes throughout the day. The main living areas, including the living, dining, and kitchen, are designed as an open-plan space along the rear of the property. Custom white oak built-ins provide both storage and seating, with a bench integrated into the kitchen island to create an informal gathering spot. The material palette emphasizes warmth and natural tactility, featuring clay plaster, wood, and slate. These materials introduce an earthy softness that contrasts with the home’s geometric black and white exterior. An “engawa,” a Japanese-style covered porch, extends the living spaces outdoors, offering a tranquil area for reflection. A central skylit stairwell functions as a sculptural element, connecting the two floors. Beyond its aesthetic role, it facilitates passive ventilation, channeling light and air while discreetly housing mechanical systems. On the second floor, the layout is efficiently designed to maximize space. The primary suite includes a slate-lined wet room and a cedar soaking tub, while the children’s rooms incorporate playful lofts for rest and imaginative play. Sustainability was a core principle in the home’s design and construction. The Cupertino Courtyard House exceeds net-zero energy standards, generating more power than it consumes through a rooftop solar array. It incorporates high-efficiency systems, such as heat pump HVAC and water heating, along with energy recovery ventilation. Advanced framing techniques and airtight insulation further contribute to minimizing waste and enhancing energy performance. Every fixture, material, and assembly was chosen for its longevity and environmental impact, reflecting a commitment to both aesthetic quality and sustainable living. #CaliforniaArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #JapaneseInspiredDesign #ModernHome #SustainableArchitecture #NetZeroEnergy #SHEDArchitectureAndDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

A townhome in Lewes has been transformed into a mindfulness retreat, drawing inspiration from Japanese architecture and aesthetics. The project, designed by Scott Edmonston, principal of Millville-based SEA Studio Architects, in collaboration with Camenisch Company Inc., sought to create a serene escape for a bachelor who desired a quiet space for writing, away from his primary residence in Manhattan, while also accommodating occasional family visits. The design implicitly embraces several Japanese principles, including *wabi-sabi*, which celebrates the beauty of transience and imperfection; *shibui*, emphasizing simplicity, subtlety, and economy of line; and *miyabi*, denoting refinement and polish. These concepts were expertly integrated by the project’s contractor, Milton’s Camenisch Company. The homeowner's desire for a mindful retreat, coupled with the structural limitations—an HOA mandate against external or window configuration changes—led to a design that maximized internal flexibility and aesthetic coherence. The two-story home, an award winner at the 2022 AIA Delaware, functions to promote mental clarity and a healthy lifestyle, encouraging occupants to slow down and immerse themselves in their surroundings. This is achieved through thoughtful architectural choices that foster a sense of calm and remove daily stressors. Key design elements include custom built-in furniture, such as a sofa in the living room and cabinetry in the kitchen and primary bedroom, fabricated by Alleghany Woodworks. The kitchen features vertical-grain white oak cabinetry with concealed hardware and Pental Quartz countertops and backsplash, designed to seamlessly integrate into the living space and even disappear when not in use. Throughout the home, the flooring is white oak with a custom finish. Light plays a pivotal role in the design, with natural illumination flooding the spaces. The existing clerestory windows are augmented by a system of Japanese *shoji* screens, built by Brian Holcombe Woodworker. These screens not only enhance the aesthetic but also provide flexibility in partitioning space, allowing small areas to feel larger and offering privacy when needed, particularly in the 130-square-foot “bunk room” which can adapt to host varying numbers of guests. The primary bathroom is a standout feature, designed as an open-style wet room with built-in seating, multiple shower fixtures, and a deep soaking tub from Signature Hardware. This space evokes the tranquility of Japanese *onsens*. The materials used, such as Riad Tile in Zellige natural white for walls and Tilebar’s Bronx Collection for flooring, contribute to the serene ambiance. The interior is further curated with select furniture and art, including a Japanese banner that translates to “clear skies for 1,000 miles,” symbolizing both the views of the nearby bay and the clarity of mind the home aims to inspire. #JapaneseDesign #TownhomeLiving #MindfulnessRetreat #CoastalHome #InteriorArchitecture #CustomBuiltIns #ShojiScreens #WabiSabi #Shibui

This article showcases a lakeside vacation home in New Hampshire, designed by interior designer Nina Farmer for a Boston-based family of five. The property, spanning 1.6 acres, serves as a year-round retreat from their primary residence, approximately two hours away. The family, including three teenagers, is highly active, engaging in daily lake swims and mountain climbing, and the home's interior design reflects this relaxed and engaged lifestyle. The 5,400-square-foot main house, completed last year, was conceived by Cambridge-based architecture firm Charles R. Myer & Partners. Constructed from red cedar in a Shingle-Style, it features a screened-in wrap-around porch and offers picturesque lake views. The design intentionally blends with the local vernacular, avoiding the feel of a massive new construction and instead aiming for a cozy atmosphere. Farmer emphasizes that the interior design was carefully curated to extend this sense of belonging and comfort. Farmer’s design philosophy for the three-bedroom, three-bathroom property, which also includes a second-story bunk room and an additional full bathroom, began with selecting rugs as foundational elements. She typically incorporates a mix of new and vintage pieces; sofas are generally new additions, while accessories and side chairs are often vintage. This approach ensures that the home feels lived-in and functional rather than merely decorative. The great room, a central feature of the home, is designed around a custom rug by Farmer. It combines modern items, such as a 1960s French Pierre Chapo leather chair, with aesthetic movement stools and rustic pottery. Custom elements include a tufted sofa from Farmer’s studio, wall sconces from Jamb, and a Bogart cocktail table from Shoppe Amber Interiors. The room also boasts two monumental stone fireplaces, with the family personally selecting the stones. A long window seat in the great room provides a dedicated space for reading and relaxation, offering direct views of the lake. The dining room, designed to be less formal, accommodates ten guests at a custom table, complemented by aesthetic-style chairs upholstered in Jennifer Shorto fabric. A custom-designed rug by Farmer anchors this space, highlighting her focus on tactile materials that promote a simpler, disconnected lifestyle. Lighting fixtures in the dining room include parchment and iron pendants from Roman Thomas and a leather console from BDDW. The kitchen is functional and approachable, featuring a lower ceiling and cabinetry painted in Studio Green by Farrow & Ball. Moroccan Zellige tile clads the wall behind the sink, illuminated by handmade ceramic pendant lights from Natalie Page. The study is described as a cozy, boat-like room, designed to be enveloping and snug. It houses a Dmitriy & Co. sofa, chairs from Nickey Kehoe, a 1960 Guillerme et Chambron cocktail table, a vintage midcentury Swedish pendant by Erik Höglund, and a vintage Moroccan rug. Each of the primary bedrooms offers lake views, providing a tranquil retreat. Furnishings include a standing lamp by Jacques Adnet, a ceramic lamp by Danny Kaplan Studio, a bed from Shoppe Amber Interiors, and an oversize pillow in Zak+Fox fabric, with a Moroccan flat-weave rug on the floor. The primary bathroom features a freestanding bathtub and fixtures from Drummonds, a pendant light from Jamb, and a vintage flat-weave rug, reflecting a blend of elevation and simplicity. Another bathroom is characterized by its rustic charm, with yellow Moroccan tiles in the shower and on the walls, complemented by Jasper’s Corsica wallpaper. It includes a pedestal sink from Waterworks and a Double Bubble light fixture from Olampia. The children's bedrooms, though not overly large, incorporate Dutch doors to foster an indoor-outdoor connection. These rooms are furnished with Rose Tarlow beds, a vintage armchair upholstered in Jennifer Shorto fabric, window treatments from Lisa Fine Textiles, and vintage Kilim rugs. The bunk room, designed for hosting multiple guests, features single wrought-iron beds from Cottage Home Shoppe, Pendleton blankets, and a mix of 19th- and 20th-century dressers. The floor is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Indian Yellow, and all light fixtures are from Urban Archaeology. The expansive porch, a favorite space for the family year-round, epitomizes indoor-outdoor living with a custom-built porch swing, lighting from Urban Electric, and furnishings from Bielecky Brothers and Hollywood at Home. #InteriorDesign #LakeHouse #NewHampshire #NinaFarmer #VacationHome #ShingleStyle #CozyInteriors #VintageFurniture #HomeDecor

This article highlights the creation of a 7,812-square-foot dream home on Maxwell Bay of Lake Minnetonka in Orono, Minnesota. The homeowners, having previously resided in several lakefront properties, sought a contemporary design that harmonized with rustic materials, reflecting the natural surroundings. Architect Peter Eskuche of Eskuche Associates was commissioned for the design, with construction handled by Stonewood, LLC. The resulting aesthetic is termed 'mountain-modern,' characterized by clean lines, a low-pitch roof, and the incorporation of reclaimed barn-wood siding, cor-ten steel, and other dark metal accents. The entrance of the home features a grand 10-foot-tall door, opening into interior spaces that blend metal, glass, and wood, further enhanced by reclaimed timbers and stone. A notable architectural element is a stone-clad wall that bisects the house, creating steel-framed openings from the foyer to the main living areas. Within the gathering room, a steel and glass wine cellar serves both a functional and artistic purpose. A steel staircase with substantial wood treads connects the three levels of the residence, complemented by a glass and steel elevator for accessibility. Interior designer Annie Graunke of Studio M focused on incorporating beautiful woods with distinct grains to introduce warmth into the expansive, open-plan home. The design maintains straight lines while integrating plush textures and materials, creating subtle parallels between the furniture and the architectural elements. The kitchen, which flows into the dining and gathering spaces, boasts custom brown-stained, vertical grain, clear oak cabinets and marble countertops, including a waterfall edge on the island. Sliding glass doors in the kitchen lead to a versatile porch equipped with a wood-burning fireplace, infrared ceiling heaters, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, and automated screens and vinyl shades, facilitating year-round outdoor living. Upstairs, the home accommodates private bedrooms and bathrooms for the daughters. The master suite features a fireplace and a glass door that opens onto a deck with an outdoor gas fireplace. The master bathroom is appointed with stone vanities and a glass shower. The lower level includes a fitness room, a bathroom with a sauna, a guest suite, and a linear fireplace with a blackened steel surround and a floor-to-ceiling Cambria wall. A multi-panel glass Marvin door provides access to the pool deck, which offers views of the lake. Sven Gustafson, president and CEO of Stonewood, LLC, noted that the home embodies the couple's long-held dreams and travel-inspired ideas, meticulously integrated into a residence tailored to their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This property was also featured on Midwest Home's 2018 Luxury Home Tour, with sponsors including Andersen Windows & Doors and Phantom Screens. #LakesideHome #LuxuryHomeTour #MountainModernDesign #StonewoodLLC #EskucheDesign #LakeMinnetonka #ContemporaryArchitecture #RusticMaterials #OronoRealEstate

This article details the construction and design of a new three-bedroom modern Japanese-style house located in Lennox Head on the NSW north coast, built by video editor Raquel Banks and builder Jack Nyboer of Nobo Build. The project, which took approximately two years from design to completion, features a single-story layout with two courtyards and a self-contained studio, thoughtfully integrated into its natural surroundings overlooking a nature reserve. The house's design centers around maximizing daylight and connecting indoor and outdoor living spaces through dual north-facing courtyard gardens. The central courtyard serves as a communal outdoor space ideal for entertaining, while a more private rear courtyard, adjoining the main bedroom, includes a plunge pool and outdoor shower, creating an adult retreat. This innovative layout ensures that every area of the home enjoys a view of the garden, fulfilling Jack's initial vision for the property. The exterior of the home features charred jarrah-clad walls, utilizing the Japanese shou sugi ban technique for timber preservation, which also provides a raw, maintenance-free aesthetic that contrasts with the brighter interior. The interior palette, selected by Raquel, emphasizes warmth and coziness through materials such as spotted-gum veneer kitchen cabinetry, travertine benchtops and bathroom tiles, and polished concrete flooring. This neutral base allows for personalization through soft furnishings and contemporary artworks by local artists, which introduce summery and playful colors. Collaboration was a key aspect of the project, with long-time friends architect Hayley Pryor and landscape designer/carpenter Rhys Heggie contributing their expertise. Hayley Pryor was instrumental in proposing the two separate courtyards and the detached studio. The construction itself was largely a hands-on effort by Jack and Rhys, involving long days but ultimately resulting in a home that surpassed expectations. Material choices throughout the house were inspired by the landscape, featuring organic and simple finishes selected for their textural and tonal qualities. The kitchen combines spotted gum cabinetry with overhead MDF cabinets in Moss Grey, complemented by a travertine benchtop. In the bathrooms, travertine flooring and custom-made spotted-gum mirrors reflect the natural theme. The landscape design incorporates Australian native plantings such as coastal pigface, kangaroo paw, and banksia and blueberry ash trees, thriving in the local climate. The living zone boasts a soaring raked ceiling and louvered windows that facilitate cooling breezes and cross-ventilation, especially during warmer seasons. Expansive glazing throughout the home frames views of the lush courtyards. Though the couple has since sold the house, they express immense pride in their first joint project, emphasizing the journey from an initial idea to a tangible home and the value of teamwork. #JapaneseStyleHome #CoastalLiving #CourtyardDesign #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation #MaterialPalette #LennoxHead

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, hosts an eight-acre Japanese garden designed by Hoichi Kurisu, offering visitors a profound connection to nature through traditional Japanese garden practices. Senior Vice President Steve LaWarre highlights the garden's unique ability to transform perception across seasons, even when covered in snow, encouraging introspection and renewal through ancient design principles. The garden, inspired by Frederik Meijer's early 2000s trip to Japan, was a five-year collaborative effort with Kurisu and recently celebrated its tenth anniversary. Winter provides a distinct experience within the garden, characterized by a profound quietness. The tranquil, snow-covered landscape emphasizes the garden's underlying structure, with boulders and rocks painted white, cold-hardy bamboo standing tall, and softly trickling water features. This stripped-back aesthetic embodies 'wabi-sabi,' celebrating imperfection, simplicity, and subtle beauty. In Japanese tradition, winter is seen as a time to appreciate the garden's bones and structure, with snow viewed as another form of blossoming, representing 'mujō' or impermanence, akin to the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms. As spring arrives, the garden quickly bursts with color. The initial flush of chartreuse green leaves offers a stark and joyful contrast to the dark stems of trees. Conifers form the garden's structural backbone, providing evergreen color year-round and serving as iconic elements shaped through 'niwaki' pruning. This artful technique creates exaggerated, airy, and asymmetrical silhouettes, mimicking natural forces. The garden also features a vast bonsai collection displayed from spring to fall, including acers, pines, and flowering varieties like azaleas, showcasing sculptural pruning on a smaller scale. Spring unfolds with 'ephemeral waves of bloom,' starting with flowering cherry blossoms in late April along the Cherry Tree Promenade, symbolizing transient beauty. This is followed by serviceberry, vibrant azaleas, and water lilies, ensuring continuous floral displays throughout the growing season. In autumn, Japanese maples of various shapes and sizes transform the landscape with fiery hues of orange, red, and yellow, extending the garden's colorful journey. The garden integrates traditional Japanese structures, such as a teahouse, which was constructed in Japan from authentic materials, dismantled, and reassembled in Michigan. The teahouse, with its hand-bent copper roof and traditional tatami mats, offers an accessible space for tea ceremonies ('sadō' or 'chadō'). These ceremonies, deeply rooted in Zen Buddhist philosophy, promote mindful reflection and connection. The garden also includes a 'karesansui' or zen garden, a dry gravel garden where horticulturists create intricate patterns with traditional Japanese rakes, forming a living artwork that changes with the seasons and represents natural elements. Water is a central element, with the main pond's 'kanji' shape symbolizing the spiritual heart. Islands and a network of bridges guide visitors, always keeping the water in sight. A viewing hill provides panoramic views of the garden and pond. The water symbolizes renewal and purification, offering a space for meditation and introspection. Four waterfalls, representing masculine and feminine energies, create sensory sound and movement. The garden's integration of centuries-old tradition with modern art, including permanent sculptures that embody humanity's connection to nature, creates a timeless living masterpiece. Hoichi Kurisu's design intentionally guides visitors through varied spaces, from intimate pathways to expansive views, fostering new discoveries and a deeper appreciation for nature's asymmetrical balance. Visitors can incorporate elements like asymmetry, water features, and embracing the winter garden into their own outdoor spaces to create tranquil moments. #JapaneseGarden #GardenDesign #Horticulture #CulturalHub #ZenGarden #Teahouse #SeasonalBeauty #Bonsai #LandscapeArchitecture

The Star House, a 6,600-square-foot single-family residence in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, designed by Atelier Gratia principal Grace Ming-En Chang, presents a unique blend of fortress-like protection and open, airy living. This inward-gazing structure was conceived to offer a sense of refuge amidst the dense urban environment. From the street, the home appears as a faceted concrete monolith, providing a robust and private exterior. However, once inside, the design reveals an open and airy layout centered around a private courtyard. Every room in the residence benefits from a view of this central sanctuary through full-height glass walls. Many of these glass panels are designed to slide open, providing direct access to decks or balconies, thereby seamlessly connecting the interior with the outdoor spaces. The focal point of the courtyard is a ground-floor Zen garden, which pays homage to Japanese aesthetics and culture, reflecting the homeowner's past residency in Japan. Chang explains that this garden utilizes geometric principles to symbolize an idealized vision of heaven. A striking feature of the Zen garden is a single, sculptural pine tree that emerges from the center of an infinity-edge reflecting pool. This pool is also home to koi, adding a dynamic and tranquil element to the space. An iris-lined path gracefully leads from the courtyard to the backyard, which is lushly forested with bamboo and ferns, further enhancing the connection to nature. The integration of greenery extends to the rooftop, where the landscape transitions into a more wild and free-form style. This rooftop garden is described by Chang as a “gesture of giving back to nature.” A prairie of tropical grass covers the roof, playing a crucial role in the home's environmental performance. This grass is irrigated using recirculated rainwater, contributing to water conservation efforts. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the rooftop vegetation serves a functional purpose by helping to block the harsh sun, thereby cooling the interior temperature of the home. The lawn is interspersed with various shrubs and fragrant native flora, including rosemary, jasmine, and lantana. These plants have not only beautified the space but have also quickly attracted local wildlife, turning the rooftop into a haven for butterflies and birds, thus creating an unexpected oasis within the urban landscape of Kaohsiung. The project was a 2022 Best of Year Winner for Residential Landscape, highlighting its innovative design and successful execution in blending urban living with natural tranquility. The design exemplifies how architectural planning can create a serene and private environment within a bustling city, using thoughtful landscaping and a strategic layout to achieve both aesthetic beauty and functional benefits. #AtelierGratia #ZenGarden #ResidentialLandscape #TaiwanDesign #CourtyardHouse #SustainableDesign #UrbanOasis #ArchitecturalInnovation

Giselle Go and Philippe Terrien, co-founders of the Japanese clean beauty brand DamDam, embarked on a search for a tranquil weekend retreat near Tokyo. Their initial criteria included proximity to the city, high privacy, and a mountainside location. After a prolonged search, a friend, Naoko Kawamura, introduced them to a 75-year-old property overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Mount Fuji. The house, initially dilapidated, held historical significance as it was built by American postwar photojournalist Horace Bristol, known for his work on John Steinbeck’s 'Grapes of Wrath' and for magazines like 'Life,' 'Time,' and 'National Geographic' in the 1950s. Recognizing the challenges of renovating such an old property, especially one situated on protected heritage land, the couple enlisted the expertise of Motosuke Mandai of Mandai Architects. Their vision was to revive the house while preserving its past and integrating modern comforts. A significant part of the renovation involved working closely with the local temple that oversees the protected area to ensure all regulations were met. The couple meticulously retained original elements like wood beams, ceilings, and shoji screens. When original features such as the wood floors or the wood-burning stove could not be salvaged, they were replaced with identical materials to maintain the house's authentic character. The entrance to the home functions as both an entryway and a mudroom, where it is customary to remove shoes and don soft house slippers, a Japanese tradition. This space features a Hang-It-All coatrack by Eames for Herman Miller, a stool by Timber Crew, and a washi tray by Craig Ancelowitz, both for DamDam Atelier. Artwork includes a calligraphy on canvas by Mikiko Kayama and a wall sculpture by Yuichiro Kobayashi. The living room, a favorite indoor spot for the couple, boasts an Akari 21A pendant light by Isamu Noguchi, an Archimoon Soft table lamp by Philippe Starck for Flos, and Glo-ball table and floor lamps by Jasper Morrison for Flos. The sofa is an N701 modular model from Ethnicraft, complemented by an Airframe coffee table by David Chipperfield for Cassina. This room offers direct views of the sunset over the sea, with garden-facing windows framing the sofa, and features a wood-burning stove for winter warmth. The dining room serves as a dual-purpose workspace. Original shoji screens provide privacy from the north-side bamboo, while the room opens to sea views on the west. This area includes a Flowerpot Verner Panton 1968 pendant light from &Tradition, Series 7 dining chairs by Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen, and an Airframe dining table by David Chipperfield for Cassina, which was restored with a new walnut-wood top by Timber Crew. Custom shelving by Douguya and an Akari 3x table lamp by Isamu Noguchi further personalize the space, along with washi artwork and a painting by Philippe’s son, James. The kitchen, a beloved space for Philippe, was enlarged by removing an old bathroom, placing it centrally within the home with garden access. To address the lack of natural light, Motosuke Mandai incorporated floor-to-ceiling windows into the traditional ranma (wall panels), creating the illusion of a floating roof and flooding the interiors with sunlight. An engawa, a traditional Japanese hallway, was transformed into a sunroom, enlarged and opened to a seaside deck for sunset aperitifs and gardening activities. This room is furnished with an Akari 1AG table lamp by Isamu Noguchi, an antique rattan table, a vintage lounge chair, and a Malawi chair from Couleur Locale. The decor reflects the multicultural backgrounds of Giselle, who is Filipino, and Philippe, who is French, blending midcentury-modern design, vintage finds, Japanese crafts, and textiles from their travels. The furniture, much of which was crafted by artisans known to them, imbues the home with a personal touch. The only fully enclosed room is the bedroom, which offers a private sanctuary feel, without glass windows on the ranma. The bed frame is by Timber Crew, and the table lamp is the Archimoon Soft by Philippe Starck for Flos. Wood stools designed by Timber Crew for DamDam Atelier complete the room. A large ofuro (bathtub) at the end of the bathroom provides a relaxing space. The interior design blends Japanese architectural elements like sugi-finish floors and preserved pinewood ceilings with a diverse collection of furnishings, embodying an old-world travel museum aesthetic that reflects the owners’ journeys and personal connections. #JapaneseHouse #ZenHideaway #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #TokyoHome #ArchitecturalDesign #MidCenturyModern #MulticulturalDecor #DamDam

Architect Andrew Lister designed a distinctive home for actor Yuri Kinugawa and film producer Owen Hughes in the Auckland suburb of Waterview. The residence, characterized by its tall silhouette, narrow upper window, and a blank cedar-clad facade, adheres to the principles of the Direct Compass, a Japanese discipline akin to feng shui. The home's exterior, covered in cedar weatherboards, initially appears utilitarian, yet conceals a thoughtfully designed interior. The house's structure is composed of two primary boxes connected by a passageway and an adjoining bathroom. Despite its compact footprint, the design creates an illusion of greater spaciousness, as noted by Hughes. A prominent feature of the living room is a two-story bookcase spanning the entire northern wall, housing Hughes’ extensive book collection. This vertical storage solution ingeniously maximizes space, drawing the eye upwards and adding visual texture without encroaching on floor area. The central area of the home is laid out efficiently, with the kitchen to the left and the bedroom to the right. Above these spaces, two offices are stacked, accessible via a stairway at the rear of the room. The interior is enriched by family antiques and Japanese textiles, which introduce complementary textures, transforming the angular space into a welcoming environment. Following Direct Compass principles, the bedroom, considered vital for family relationships, overlooks a small zen garden on the south side of the house. This placement is believed to promote mental clarity due to cooler temperatures. A six-foot-long passageway clearly delineates the transition from the public kitchen and dining areas to the private bedroom. The traditional Japanese bathroom, situated off the central passageway, serves as a space for washing before bathing in a wood-lined onsen (tub). While the north side of the house offers views of an estuary, the street-facing facade maintains a minimalist, private appearance. In stark contrast, the west-facing side features a double-height glass wall that can be fully opened, merging the living space with a veranda. This outdoor area overlooks the garden, estuary, and harbor, providing a setting for observing sunsets and occasional dolphin sightings. The home's exterior features low-maintenance Canadian cedar cladding and aluminum joinery, designed to age gracefully and harmonize with the surrounding garden's sculptural desert plants. The durability of these materials is crucial, given the home's exposure to south-westerly winds laden with salt from the estuary, a condition the chosen plants tolerate well. #JapaneseDesign #BoxHome #TwoStoryBookcase #SmallSpaceLiving #DirectCompass #AucklandArchitecture #CedarCladding #ZenGarden #OpenPlanLiving

Perched atop a hill in Echo Park, Los Angeles, a two-bedroom, one-bathroom Mid-Century Modern bungalow underwent a comprehensive renovation to transform it into a serene sanctuary. The property, owned by Sue Chan, a food and beverage multi-hyphenate, required significant structural retrofitting due to its steep hillside location, along with a full gut remodel of its interiors and a roof replacement. The architecture and design firm Only Way Is Up (OWIU), led by Amanda Gunawan and Joel Wong, spearheaded the project with the goal of creating a space that served both as an ideal home office and a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. Chan, who frequently travels between New York and Los Angeles, desired a home that encapsulated the essence of Los Angeles while maintaining a curated environment for work and calm. To achieve this vision, the designers drew heavily from Japanese design principles, integrating elements such as shoji screens and raised platforms to cultivate a meditative atmosphere within the home and a newly constructed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). Rather than expanding the main house, which would have been cost-prohibitive, a separate unit was built on the property to function as a dedicated office and ADU. This strategic decision provided additional functional space without compromising the original structure. The design philosophy also embraced the natural beauty of the surrounding Echo Park hills, using the landscape as a constant source of inspiration. The interior layout was meticulously planned to facilitate seamless flow, particularly for entertaining. The design team maximized the connection between indoor and outdoor areas, linking the kitchen to the living room and extending it to a deck that offers panoramic views of the hills. This integration makes the space feel considerably larger and introduces unique architectural elements throughout the house. The living room, in particular, was conceived to blend indoor and outdoor living harmoniously, providing ample space for hosting and bathing the interior in natural light. The kitchen, a collaboration with Reform, features a slanted skylight that ensures an abundance of natural illumination, complemented by cedar and oak wood finishes that impart warmth to the space. The bedroom is designed as a private sanctuary, incorporating a shoji screen for privacy and situated on a subtly raised platform, signaling it as a space for retreat without disrupting the open floor plan. An earthy, minimal aesthetic ties these spaces together, prioritizing comfort and functionality. A curved walkway connects the main house to the detached office/ADU, serving both as a practical path and an artistic introduction to the property’s natural elements, showcasing lush greenery and hilltop vistas. The office/ADU mirrors the aesthetic of the main house, featuring cedar-clad siding and oak finishes that create visual harmony. Inside, a raised platform and a picture window frame the surrounding trees, enhancing the sense of retreat and connection to nature. This separate unit was designed as a sanctuary for focused work, maintaining distinct functionality while remaining cohesive with the overall design. Despite challenges, such as integrating the new structure with existing trees, the OWIU team creatively incorporated the natural environment, even creating small holes in the fencing to accommodate branches, ensuring the trees' health and the design's integrity. The result is a home that balances a serene retreat with an ideal space for entertaining and work, reflecting the best of Los Angeles living. #MidCenturyModern #HilltopBungalow #LosAngelesHome #ZenSanctuary #HomeRenovation #JapaneseDesign #ADU #IndoorOutdoorLiving #EchoPark #ArchitecturalDesign

The article showcases a modern lakeside pool house in Gallatin, New York, designed to accommodate four generations of a family and their guests. The initial vision for the property was a family escape, particularly during the pandemic when four generations resided together in the main house, built in 2017 by Carol Kurth Architecture. This led to the development of a separate, expansive pool house, also serving as a guest house, to meet the diverse needs of a large, multi-generational family and their community-oriented lifestyle. The design process involved a collaborative effort with Bedford-based designers Carol Kurth, AIA, Hilary Matt, and builder David Penny of East Mountain Construction Management. Gabby, one of the homeowners' daughters, played a key role in overseeing the construction. The inspiration for the pool house stemmed from a long-standing family tradition of gathering at a lake house, a tradition Gabby's father, who grew up in South Africa, sought to continue after purchasing the Columbia County property nearly three decades ago. The pool house complements the main residence while integrating with its natural surroundings, emphasizing a more casual and adventurous design approach suitable for a second home. The pool house's layout prioritizes ease of access and functionality for large groups. It features a unique design without a traditional front door, instead offering "wet-dry footpaths" that lead into a mudroom or through the pool bathroom. The mudroom is equipped with cubbies for storage and laundry facilities for wet towels. This area seamlessly transitions into the main entertaining space, characterized by vaulted ceilings and expansive glass doors that open onto a covered outdoor seating area, fostering a continuous indoor-outdoor experience. A notable playful element is a rock-climbing wall that extends from beyond the mudroom into the living room, appealing to children. Durability and child-friendliness were central to the interior design choices. High-quality vinyl flooring, mimicking wood, was installed to withstand water and heavy use. Furniture, such as the Verellen living room sofas, are covered in outdoor fabric, ensuring easy cleaning of spills. A chalkboard-covered pocket door separates the bedroom wing from the main living space, adding another interactive element. The bunk room, designed by Kurth and Matt, features timeless navy hues and full-size beds to accommodate guests of all ages. For children, the room includes monkey bars that span a wall and across the ceiling, along with individual Sazerac Stitches sconces by each bed. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat, featuring a plush bed from Muskoka Living, Kelly Wearstler side tables, Allied Maker alabaster sconces, a Katy Skelton bench, and Matouk linens. Its design incorporates extensive glass, providing views of the woods and lake, creating a treehouse-like ambiance with modern comforts. The primary bathroom continues this theme with a floor-to-ceiling slot window in the shower. Art curated by Gabby's mother, a former Guggenheim curator, is integrated throughout the house, including pieces from her personal collection and abstract works created by a family friend in collaboration with Gabby's brother. The outdoor spaces are equally integral to the family's entertaining, with an outdoor kitchen added by the pool and a sun shelf in the Wagner Pools-installed pool. The surrounding landscape by Biasin Landscape features bluestone pavers and wood planks, mirroring the house's modern aesthetic. #LakesideLiving #PoolHouseDesign #MultiGenerationalHome #FamilyEscape #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #ModernHome

This article showcases five holiday homes, each featuring a unique infinity pool design, located across various picturesque regions, offering a luxurious escape and an immersive experience with nature. Infinity pools are highlighted as an ideal way to combat summer heat, creating an illusion of boundless space and tranquility by seamlessly merging with the surrounding landscape. The first featured property is an eco-conscious home in Kerala, named 'Malhar.' This weekend retreat, designed by architect Vivek PP of De Earth, is situated on a six-acre plot near Payyannur, Kannur. The owners, originally from Bengaluru, envision making this their permanent residence. The home features a cobbled pathway leading to a foyer, and an open-to-sky infinity pool, surrounded by areca palm trees, is central to a courtyard. The pool provides expansive views of nearby plantations, fulfilling the owners' desire for a lush, green environment integrated with music. Next is a second-generation summer home in Ahmedabad, a project by Rushi Shah and Vidisha Shah. This property is notable for its integration with the abundant trees on its verdant outskirts. Initially conceived as a standard two-bedroom dwelling, the design evolved to prioritize open spaces and a harmonious relationship with nature. The infinity pool at the front of the house is strategically positioned on a lawn slope, creating a stunning visual effect that allows inhabitants to fully appreciate the encompassing landscape, functioning as a viewing gallery. A lakeside home in Kamshet, Maharashtra, is also presented, owned by dance practitioner Avantika Bahl and consultant Avinash Goyal. This property, located on a unique lakeside parcel in the ghats, is described as extraordinary, with dancing grasses and a design that resonates with Bahl's artistic sensibilities. The home is characterized by a series of pavilions that offer increasingly spectacular lake views. Its design is intended to appear naturally integrated into the environment, featuring elements like colorful living room blocks that interact with sunlight and a half-moon shaped pool that mirrors the lake, creating a celestial impression. The fourth property is a coffee estate in Coorg, converted into a vacation home by Studio 4A co-founders Vijay Narayanan and Appachu Nanjappa. This 4,000-square-foot, single-story, gable-roofed house is set amidst a coffee estate with distant views of elk hills, and its structure is subtly integrated into the elevated terrain. The architects emphasized celebrating the natural landscape and climate, incorporating tropical architectural elements such as long verandahs, courtyards, high ceilings, and folding doors. These features create interconnected outdoor spaces, including an exterior infinity swimming pool, stepped sunken seating, and a deck that extends from the living area. Finally, a blissful getaway in Karjat offers an elevated perspective of the hillside. This luxurious 8,000-square-foot, two-story abode, spanning over six acres, includes a garden, swimming pool, and gaming room, all enveloped by lush greenery. Amritha Karnakar, principal architect at AKAD, designed the interiors to be minimal, ensuring that the focus remains on the undulating hillside views and the tranquil Kalote lake. An infinity pool on the ground floor deck, complemented by sunbeds, allows residents to immerse themselves in the green vistas, making it an ideal weekend retreat from the urban bustle of Mumbai. #HolidayHomes #InfinityPools #LuxuryTravel #ArchitecturalDesign #EcoConsciousHomes #LakesideProperties #CoffeeEstateHomes #ModernAesthetic

This article explores a renovated single-storey semi-detached house located in Subang Jaya, Malaysia, which underwent an expansion from 204 sqm to 279 sqm during a 2022 renovation. The design philosophy behind this home emphasizes introversion, minimalism, and introspective living, challenging traditional notions of private and public spaces. A linear garden wall and strategic use of semi-outdoor areas are employed to ensure privacy while fostering a tranquil atmosphere. The incorporation of an inner courtyard serves a dual purpose: facilitating natural ventilation and light penetration throughout the residence, all while maintaining a strong sense of seclusion. The architectural style is defined by its minimalism, aiming to promote simplicity and authenticity. Natural materials are integral to the aesthetic, with polished concrete flooring extending consistently from the interior spaces into the inner garden, creating a seamless transition. The walls are kept whitewashed, serving as a neutral backdrop for a carefully curated collection of artwork. Deliberate splashes of yellow are used to highlight specific areas, introducing subtle color accents without overwhelming the overall serene ambiance of the home. This thoughtful use of color ensures that the minimalist design remains dynamic and engaging. The exterior of the house maintains a modest profile, featuring a newly installed metal roof that lends a contemporary touch to the structure. The design incorporates two distinct entrances, allowing for separate private and guest access, which enhances the functionality and privacy of the living spaces. The kitchen is strategically positioned within the inner garden, establishing a strong connection with the semi-outdoor zones. This layout encourages both private family life and social interaction, blending indoor comfort with outdoor natural elements. Flexibility in dining options is provided through the inclusion of both indoor and outdoor dining areas, accommodating various occasions and preferences. The garden itself is a central feature, drawing inspiration from Zen principles. It is seamlessly integrated into the living environment, offering a peaceful and private sanctuary for relaxation and contemplation. The master bedroom is located adjacent to the central living area, featuring large glass doors that open up to the semi-outdoor spaces, blurring the lines between inside and outside. The master bathroom continues this theme, being integrated into the walled garden with clean lines and natural materials. A custom swimming pool standing shower adds a unique and luxurious element to the minimalist design. Furthermore, the guest room is designed to be versatile, capable of functioning as a study or a playroom. It benefits from abundant natural light and optimal airflow, contributing to the overall comfortable and healthy living environment. The residence as a whole is crafted to encourage a calm and contemplative lifestyle, thereby fostering a deeper connection between its occupants and the surrounding environment. This architectural project is presented as a successful demonstration of alternative living, reflecting a shift towards simplicity, introspection, and enhanced environmental awareness. #HomeDesign #TropicalSanctuary #JapaneseZenGarden #MinimalistDesign #IntrovertedArchitecture #NaturalMaterials #SubangJayaRealEstate #RenovatedHome #SustainableLiving