In a wooded area of Lafayette, a mid-century home was re-imagined for a graphic designer and kindergarten teacher couple and their three children. A major new design feature is a high ceiling great room that wraps from the front to the back yard, turning a corner at the kitchen and ending at the family room fireplace. This room was designed with a high flat roof to work in conjunction with existing roof forms to create a unified whole, and raise interior ceiling heights from eight to over ten feet. All new lighting and large floor to ceiling Fleetwood aluminum windows expand views of the trees beyond. The existing home was enlarged by 700 square feet with a small exterior addition enlarging the kitchen over an existing deck, and a larger amount by excavating out crawlspace at the garage level to create a new home office with full bath, and separate laundry utility room. The remodeled residence became 3,847 square feet in total area including the garage. Exterior curb appeal was improved with all new Fleetwood windows, stained wood siding and stucco. New steel railing and concrete steps lead up to the front entry. Front and rear yard new landscape design by Huettl Landscape Architecture dramatically alters the site. New planting was added at the front yard with landscape lighting and modern concrete pavers and the rear yard has multiple decks for family gatherings with the focal point a concrete conversation circle with central fire feature. Everything revolves around the corner kitchen, large windows to the backyard, quartz countertops and cabinetry in painted and walnut finishes. The homeowners enjoyed the process of selecting Heath Tile for the kitchen backsplash and white oval tiles at the family room fireplace. Black brick tiles by Fireclay were used on the living room hearth. The kitchen flows into the family room all with views to the beautifully landscaped yards. The primary suite has a built-in window seat with large windows overlooking the garden, walnut cabinetry in a skylit walk-in closet, and a large dramatic skylight bouncing light into the shower. The kid’s bath also has a skylight slot with light angling downward over double sinks. More colorful tile shows up in these spaces, as does a geometric patterned tile in the downstairs office bath shower. The large yard is taken full advantage of with concrete paved walkways, stairs and firepit circle. New retaining walls in the rear yard helped to add more level usable outdoor space, with wood slats to visually blend them into the overall design. The end result is a beautiful transformation of a mid-century home, that both captures the client’s personalities and elevates the house into the modern age.

A pair of custom swings designed by the architect define a space for tranquil contemplation.
Country patio in New York.

This custom louvered roof system creates a comfortable retreat in the homeowner's backyard. The shade control afforded by the adjustable louvers is an essential element in providing an idylliic outdoor living space no matter the weather. The addition of a firepit and cozy lighting allow for this space to be used at all times of day.

A former summer camp, this site came with a unique set of challenges. An existing 1200 square foot cabin was perched on the shore of Thorndike Pond, well within the current required setbacks. Three additional outbuildings were part of the property, each of them small and non-conforming. By limiting reconstruction to the existing footprints we were able to gain planning consent to rebuild each structure. A full second story added much needed space to the main house. Two of the outbuildings have been rebuilt to accommodate guests, maintaining the spirit of the original camp. Black stained exteriors help the buildings blend into the landscape. The project was a collaboration with Spazio Rosso Interior Design. Photographs by Sean Litchfield

Two large panoramic doors forge an immediate connection between the interior and exterior spaces and instantly doubles our client’s entertaining space. A stunning combination of covered and uncovered outdoor rooms include a dining area with ample seating conveniently located near the custom stacked stone outdoor kitchen and prep area with sleek concrete countertops, privacy screen walls and high-end appliances. The designated TV/lounge area offers additional covered seating and is the perfect spot for relaxing or watching your favorite movie or sports team. The contemporary elements our clients desired are evident in the patio area with its large custom concrete slabs and modern slate chip borders. The impressive custom concrete fire pit is the focal point for the open patio and offers a seating arrangement with plenty of space to enjoy the company of family and friends.

Contemporary patio in Sydney with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Richmond with an outdoor kitchen and natural stone pavers.

Large contemporary backyard patio in Indianapolis with concrete pavers and no cover.

Patio in Houston.

Photo of a patio in Other with natural stone pavers.

This water feature provides a wonderful calming effect throughout the space. Its positioning makes it a focal point from every seat for family and friends to enjoy. At night it is illuminated for an even more dramatic effect.

Outdoor Shower
Photo of a beach style patio in Boston.

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Miami with a roof extension.

PixelProFoto
Inspiration for a large midcentury side yard patio in San Diego with concrete slab and a pergola.

Design ideas for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Philadelphia with no cover and tile.

This beautiful home and landscape design are centered around family gatherings and luxury entertainment. The design is full of exquisite amenities such as: a large pool and spa veneered with custom tile throughout, an elaborate outdoor kitchen with swim up bar, a luxury outdoor shower, fire water features, gorgeous sunken fire pit, travertine decks, beautiful landscaping, while highlighted by amazing LED lighting throughout. Bill at White Strobe Photography

Flush mounted step lights on home in Nashville, TN. Step lights like these provide safety lighting so family & friends can safely navigate the steps after dark - and these lights enhance the space dramatically.

Expanded concrete patio off the existing deck eliminated the muddy areas in the major circulation paths. The stone stairs lead up to the level backyard created by the new retaining walls.

The Pai Pai is the automatic hangout spot for the whole family. Designed in a fun tropical style with a reed thatch ceiling, dark stained rafters, and Ohia log columns. The live edge bar faces the TV for watching the game while barbecuing and the orange built-in sofa makes relaxing a sinch. The pool features a swim-up bar and a hammock swings in the shade beneath the coconut trees.