Michael Moran/OTTO photography We took a predictable suburban spec house and transformed it into a unique home of enduring value and family-centered design. The existing footprint was expanded where it needed it most: in the family and kitchen area, creating a large square room with open views to a protected nature preserve abutting the property. An unexpected glass canopy and teak entry door are clues that what lies beyond is hardly commonplace. The design challenge was to infuse modern-day functionality and architectural quality into a spec house. Working in partnership with Gary Cruz Studio, we designed the pared down, art-filled interiors with the goal of creating comfortable, purposeful living environments. We also sought to integrate the existing pool and rear deck into the overall building design, extending the usable space outside as a screened-in porch, a dining terrace, and a seating area around a stone fire pit.

Suggested products do not represent the products used in this image. Design featured is proprietary and contains custom work. (Dan Piassick, Photographer)

Ein weiteres optisches Augenmerk ist die Beleuchtung an der Haustüre. Traditionelle Holzhaustüre vereint sich mit modernem Licht.

Freesia is a courtyard style residence with both indoor and outdoor spaces that create a feeling of intimacy and serenity. The centrally installed swimming pool becomes a visual feature of the home and is the centerpiece for all entertaining. The kitchen, great room, and master bedroom all open onto the swimming pool and the expansive lanai spaces that flank the pool. Four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a summer kitchen, fireplace, and 2.5 car garage complete the home. 3,261 square feet of air conditioned space is wrapped in 3,907 square feet of under roof living. Awards: Parade of Homes – First Place Custom Home, Greater Orlando Builders Association Grand Aurora Award – Detached Single Family Home $1,000,000-$1,500,000 – Aurora Award – Detached Single Family Home $1,000,000-$1,500,000 – Aurora Award – Kitchen $1,000,001-$2,000,000 – Aurora Award – Bath $1,000,001-$2,000,000 – Aurora Award – Green New Construction $1,000,000 – $2,000,000 – Aurora Award – Energy Efficient Home – Aurora Award – Landscape Design/Pool Design Best in American Living Awards, NAHB – Silver Award, One-of-a-Kind Custom Home up to 4,000 sq. ft. – Silver Award, Green-Built Home American Residential Design Awards, First Place – Green Design, AIBD

Russell Abraham

John Stillman Photography

Photos By Shawn Lortie Photography

Mark Gacesa/Dave

Atlantic Archives/Richard Leo Johnson

Matthew Millman Photography http://www.matthewmillman.com/

Laguna Beach, California Custom Home: New smooth stucco on all exterior walls, including low walls at the downhill entry area, highlight the contemporary, planar elements of this unique entry design. Custom metal window and door systems enhance the minimalist aesthetic, while a natural wood bench in a bed of tumbled white stones softens the entry area and invites visitors to rest and gather.

Renovating an old Farm House, we stained the siding charcoal and opened the walls with great windows to the landscape.

The dramatic front-door surround gives a hint of the architectural language of the addition in the back of the house. A hand-hammered vaulted copper canopy hangs above the door and is lit from below for dramatic effect. A door with a glass light allows for a glimpse of what awaits you inside.

exterior entry of twist