View of entry for main unit below the cantilevered upper floor. photo: Fred Kihara

Won 2013 AIANC Design Award

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.

A vintage, salvaged wood door replaced the original and was painted a bright blue to match the beadboard porch ceiling. The fresh color happily welcomes you home every day. Photography by Josh Vick

Photo by StudioCeja.com

Touches of color add interest to the all important curb appeal. Notice how the color draws your eyes toward the front door! Photo by Marilyn Peryer

Front entry path from street.

Contemporary white exterior with poured concrete and turf driveway, gorgeous landscape and Modern Forms exterior lighting. Simon Dale Photography

www.brandoninteriordesign.co.uk You don't get a second chance to make a first impression !! The front door of this grand country house has been given a new lease of life by painting the outdated "orange" wood in a bold and elegant green. The look is further enhanced by the topiary in antique stone plant holders.

This welcoming front door is a modern reproduction which is in keeping with the 1920's heritage of the house. The lantern is an effective but stylish way to light the area. CLPM project manager tip - invest well. Front doors should be well made and thermally efficient, as well as stylish. If you live in a rural location or your door is hidden from view then do consider additional security.

Fu-Tung Cheng, CHENG Design • Interior View of Front Pivot Door and 12" thick concrete wall, House 6 concrete and wood home House 6, is Cheng Design’s sixth custom home project, was redesigned and constructed from top-to-bottom. The project represents a major career milestone thanks to the unique and innovative use of concrete, as this residence is one of Cheng Design’s first-ever ‘hybrid’ structures, constructed as a combination of wood and concrete. Photography: Matthew Millman

Ashley Avila Photography