Wrap around rear extension with full-width sliding doors

Derek Lepper

Upside Development completed an contemporary architectural transformation in Taylor Creek Ranch. Evolving from the belief that a beautiful home is more than just a very large home, this 1940’s bungalow was meticulously redesigned to entertain its next life. It's contemporary architecture is defined by the beautiful play of wood, brick, metal and stone elements. The flow interchanges all around the house between the dark black contrast of brick pillars and the live dynamic grain of the Canadian cedar facade. The multi level roof structure and wrapping canopies create the airy gloom similar to its neighbouring ravine.

William Kildow

Some minor builder deviations from original plan design, but relatively well represented. C. L. Fry Photo www.clfryphoto.com

Christine Darnell Gardens

Landscape Architect: Chalet Architect: Burns and Beyerl Developer: Middlefork Development LLC

www.paradisedesignstudio.com This small space in between house and garage was all concrete with cracks. We built this small deck and used linear planting. This gives the space a green feel without taking up too much room. The bamboo we used was Called Golden goddess. I always use clumping bamboos in the ground. Bamboos that run should be used in large spaces or containers. the purple plant is black Alocasia, and the green pompom plant is giant papyrus. The red wood deck is finished in cherry with a glossy coat on top.

Townhouse backyard Photography by Paul Warchol

Simpatico Homes and Swatt/Meiers Architects, prefab and general construction by Moderna Homes

The renovation of the Woodland Residence centered around two basic ideas. The first was to open the house to light and views of the surrounding woods. The second, due to a limited budget, was to minimize the amount of new footprint while retaining as much of the existing structure as possible. The existing house was in dire need of updating. It was a warren of small rooms with long hallways connecting them. This resulted in dark spaces that had little relationship to the exterior. Most of the non bearing walls were demolished in order to allow for a more open concept while dividing the house into clearly defined private and public areas. The new plan is organized around a soaring new cathedral space that cuts through the center of the house, containing the living and family room spaces. A new screened porch extends the family room through a large folding door - completely blurring the line between inside and outside. The other public functions (dining and kitchen) are located adjacently. A massive, off center pivoting door opens to a dramatic entry with views through a new open staircase to the trees beyond. The new floor plan allows for views to the exterior from virtually any position in the house, which reinforces the connection to the outside. The open concept was continued into the kitchen where the decision was made to eliminate all wall cabinets. This allows for oversized windows, unusual in most kitchens, to wrap the corner dissolving the sense of containment. A large, double-loaded island, capped with a single slab of stone, provides the required storage. A bar and beverage center back up to the family room, allowing for graceful gathering around the kitchen. Windows fill as much wall space as possible; the effect is a comfortable, completely light-filled room that feels like it is nestled among the trees. It has proven to be the center of family activity and the heart of the residence. Hoachlander Davis Photography

Renovation of a ranch with a great room and kitchen opening up to new conrete terrace with built in fireplace, grill and planter.Pete Weigley

This new house is reminiscent of the farm type houses in the Napa Valley. Although the new house is a more sophisticated design, it still remains simple in plan and overall shape. At the front entrance an entry vestibule opens onto the Great Room with kitchen, dining and living areas. A media room, guest room and small bath are also on the ground floor. Pocketed lift and slide doors and windows provide large openings leading out to a trellis covered rear deck and steps down to a lawn and pool with views of the vineyards beyond. The second floor includes a master bedroom and master bathroom with a covered porch, an exercise room, a laundry and two children’s bedrooms each with their own bathroom Benjamin Dhong of Benjamin Dhong Interiors worked with the owner on colors, interior finishes such as tile, stone, flooring, countertops, decorative light fixtures, some cabinet design and furnishings Photos by Adrian Gregorutti