Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient. Builder: Widing Custom Homes Architect: Shoreline Architecture & Design Designer: Jones-Keena & Co. Photos by Beth Singer Photographer Inc.

JC Buck Photography Artwork by Kelton Osborn of Quickbend Design Sectional Sofa from Studio Como by Bensen

Upon entering the penthouse the light and dark contrast continues. The exposed ceiling structure is stained to mimic the 1st floor's "tarred" ceiling. The reclaimed fir plank floor is painted a light vanilla cream. And, the hand plastered concrete fireplace is the visual anchor that all the rooms radiate off of. Tucked behind the fireplace is an intimate library space. Photo by Lincoln Barber

Photography by Bruce Damonte

Remodel to an existing Mid-Century Modern home. With the business up front and the party in the back.

Architectes d'intérieur FG Studio Photo François Guillemin

Large gray sectional paired with marble coffee table. Gold wire chairs with a corner fireplace. The ceiling is exposed wood beams and vaults towards the rest of the home. Four pairs of french doors offer lake views on two sides of the house. Photographer: Martin Menocal

Ric Stovall

Lisa Romerein (photography) Oz Interiors (interior design) Linthicum (construction)

Traditional family room with exposed beams and natural stone. Architect: Urban Design Associates Builder: R-Net Custom Homes Interior Designer: Ashley P. Design

Habor Cottage, www.harborcottagemaine.com, in Martinsville Maine. Renovation by Sheila Narusawa, http://www.sheilanarusawa.com/. Construction by Harbor Builders www.harborbuilders.com. Photography by Justine Hand. For the complete tour see http://designskool.net/harbor-cottage-maine.

Photos by Jeffrey Totaro http://www.jeffreytotaro.com/

Windows were added to this living space for maximum light. The clients' collection of art and sculpture are the focus of the room. A custom limestone fireplace was designed to add focus to the only wall in this space. The furniture is a mix of custom English and contemporary all atop antique Persian rugs. The blue velvet bench in front was designed by Mr. Dodge out of maple to offset the antiques in the room and compliment the contemporary art. All the windows overlook the cabana, art studio, pool and patio.

Landino Photography

The office has two full walls of windows to view the adjacent meadow. Photographer: Daniel Contelmo Jr.