This house was designed as a second home for a Bay Area couple as a summer retreat to spend the warm summer months away from the fog in San Francisco. Built on a steep slope and a narrow lot, this 4000 square foot home is spread over 3 floors, with the master, guest and kids bedroom on the ground floor, and living spaces on the upper floor to take advantage of the views. The main living level includes a large kitchen, dining, and living space, connected to two home offices by way of a bridge that extends across the double height entry. This bridge area acts as a gallery of light, allowing filtered light through the skylights above and down to the entry on the ground level. All living space takes advantage of grand views of Lake Washington and the city skyline beyond. Two large sliding glass doors open up completely, allowing the living and dining space to extend to the deck outside. On the first floor, in addition to the guest room, a “kids room” welcomes visiting nieces and nephews with bunk beds and their own bathroom. The basement level contains storage, mechanical and a 2 car garage. Photographer: Aaron Leitz

Photo credit: Robert Benson Photography

With a clear connection between the home and the Pacific Ocean beyond, this modern dwelling provides a west coast retreat for a young family. Forethought was given to future green advancements such as being completely solar ready and having plans in place to install a living green roof. Generous use of fully retractable window walls allow sea breezes to naturally cool living spaces which extend into the outdoors. Indoor air is filtered through an exchange system, providing a healthier air quality. Concrete surfaces on floors and walls add strength and ease of maintenance. Personality is expressed with the punches of colour seen in the Italian made and designed kitchen and furnishings within the home. Thoughtful consideration was given to areas committed to the clients’ hobbies and lifestyle. photography by www.robcampbellphotography.com

Feldman Architects, Bruce Damonte Photography

Ben Mayorga Photography

Shawn Bishop

JSO Services, Buxton Kubik Dodd

Tim Griffith

Taking a cue from the past and re-inventing it for now, this oasis in Rancho Mirage exudes cool. Indoor/ outdoor resort style elegance perfectly suited for both relaxation and entertaining. Surfaces of plaster and limestone inside and out create the backbone of this home. Strong architectural lines, organic textures and brilliant light combine for an atmosphere of tranquility and luxury. Photography by: George Guttenberg

Bruce Damonte

Modern kitchen by Eddie Jones of Jones Studio, inc. Architect: Jones Studio, inc. Contractor: the construction zone, ltd. Photo Credit: Ed Taube