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Thirdstone Inc., a Canadian architectural design firm based in Edmonton, Alberta, created the stunning two-story modern dream home, SD House, which harmonizes with the natural landscape while maximizing efficiency.
This beautiful home’s minimalist facade captivates with deep charcoal-hued cast concrete, horizontal ipe wood planks, as well as glimmering metal and glass. A soaring two-story, windowed-wall entrance leads to the first level of the home, where the shared living room-dining room-kitchen is discovered, as well as an intimate study and necessary mudroom.
Two terraces exist, with one adjacent to the living room which is effectively shaded by a roof extension. The other is found on the second story and, while exposed to the sun and sky, also features slatted hardwood screens for solar protection when desired. To capture the epic beauty of a lush ravine park surrounding the home, floor-to-ceiling windows are plentiful throughout this modern space, allowing the entire living area to perpetually observe the organic greenery while basking in daylight.
The main level combined living area is contemporary with a cozy flair. The colour palette is soothing, with greens mimicking the outdoor beauty mixed with punches of bright blues and lime-yellows. Flooring is a fresh, polished pale grey and dramatically offsets the clean lines of the kitchen island and cabinetry which are bathed in a rich, chocolate tone. A central white wall is striking against the grey and houses a sleek linear fireplace. Stainless appliances, fixtures and accessories add the perfect dose of brilliance to this interior space.
Just outside the vast deck clad in beautiful tropical ipe, can be reached by descending a few wide steps. Seating ensembles surround a fire pit, while a table with umbrella offers an alfresco dining option. This garden area, perfect for relaxing and entertaining, is also gently lighted in the evening, so as to simultaneously connect the seamless indoor-outdoor interplay no matter the time of day.
The open-riser and steel staircase is stunning against the cool grey walls, exuding the ultimate modernist beauty. This structure leads to master suite and dressing area, exercise room, guest bedroom, den, and the roof terrace which affords stunning views of the vast nature-scape beyond the property.
The master bath is a light, gleaming space bathed in shades of grey and crisp white, with a freestanding tub that beckons a soak. Another bathroom is rich with black walls and a deep wood-toned vanity displaying a bold ruby-red glass basin worthy of an objet d’art. The various artworks displayed throughout this contemporary dwelling are not only eye-catching, but manage to seamlessly draw in colours from the outside creating magnificent interiors of this masterful modern dream home.
Posted by Suzanne at 23 May, 2013
The Burnaby Residence in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Vancouver recently underwent a drastic redesign by Tanya Schoenroth. A bit uncharacteristic of the designer’s past work, the family had a precise vision of the modern dream home they desired and that wish was more than fulfilled with the stunning renovation.
The two-story contemporary dwelling possesses a facade of multi-leveled cubes with medium wood, concrete and white geometric paneling. A front gate provides both privacy and a linear aesthetic to the entryway.
The home is washed in shades of grey, pure white and light beige with plentiful accents of glass, steel and wood attributing to its airy vibe. Engineered white oak flooring throughout immediately provides a neutral impact, thus a soothing backdrop to the minimalist spaces.
The all-white kitchen is open to the dining area and shines with lacquered cabinetry and glass tiles. The farmhouse-style sink, double ovens, hood, dishwasher and refrigerators are clad in brushed stainless steel. A center island houses the industrial gas stove top and seats four at the elegant white and chrome stools. A set of triple glass pendants with chrome finish hang gracefully over the dining table which is a slab of grey and fitted with chairs of the same silhouette as the kitchen bar stools.
The masterpiece of this home is its double-sided natural gas fireplace open to both the kitchen and adjacent living room. This structure was cast of raw concrete and glass bolted with steel riveting creating visual splendor. Flat-screen televisions perched above the fireplace on both sides detract from the organic beauty of this design but this is, afterall, a family home so certain sacrifices must be made. Deep charcoal sofas are contemporary and plush providing comfort as well as contrast to the light floors.
An oenophile’s dream, the wine room is a fully-glazed, walk-in structure just off the main living area. Dramatic in effect, much of the bottles are stored front-to-back on horizontal shelving versus side-by-side in a typical rack.
Up the white-washed oak and glazed staircase, another outstanding focal point awaits. An elongated suspension chandelier with a rectangular canopy features glass globes floating at mixed levels within the double-height space of the stairwell. The effect is breathtaking from both the first floor as well as second story.
The master bedroom and bath feature another open fireplace, this one comprised of concrete tiles which provide a more uniform finish than the natural concrete used in the living area. Sliding glass doors open to an outdoor terrace, while fully-white, floating cabinetry and soaking tub nestled underneath a vast window add a spacious feel. Plentiful custom built-ins provide streamlined storage options.
The Burnaby Residence by Tanya Schoenroth Design is a modern family dream home with uncompromised form plus function.
Posted by Suzanne at 14 May, 2013
This year at the Milan Design Week 2013, Italian design brand Kartell introduces a surprising new furniture collection designed by Philippe Starck. The “Aunts and Uncles” is a family of indoor and outdoor furniture pieces which is comprised of five designs: the ‘Uncle Jack’ sofa, ‘Uncle Jim’ armchair, ‘Uncle Jo’ chair, ‘Aunt Jamy’ dining table’ and ‘Aunt Maggy’ console
“My family of Kartell “uncles and aunts” is the minimalist technological version of the armchairs and sofas where my uncles and aunts used to sit smoking their pipes or knitting by the fireplace in total peace and serenity. Times have changed and so has furniture … but our dreams are always the same”. (via)
Posted by Keren Fathi-Poor at 10 May, 2013
Set upon a 10-acre farm near Melbourne, the Merricks Farm House by Robson Rak Architecture is an unconventional modern dream home derived almost entirely of earth, glass and timber. Intended as a holiday retreat, this spacious residence fits a family of four and can easily be expanded upon as per the clients’ future plans.
A series of rectangular, two-level structures, this dwelling possesses a flat roof and boasts three separate living areas while maintaing a low-profile spread across the rural landscape. A foundation of natural elements used in constructing the dream home include the rammed earth walls made from indigenous sand. The distinctive textures of walls, which are featured on both the exterior and interiors, create varying hues according to where and when the daylight bounces. An understated palette of grey, beige, brown and white follows throughout the minimalist space, and evokes the organic beauty of the design.
The contemporary living room shares space with the open kitchen, and features a linear wood-burning fireplace set into one of the rammed earth walls bearing a light cream color. Horizontal windows above this structure, as well as the black-framed glass sliding glass doors here and in the dining area, welcome help to elicit an airy vibe and bring the outdoors in.
The sizable kitchen island is a remarkable focal point, and is wrapped in rectangular charcoal-hued tiles, some of which are heavily glazed creating a unique visual integration. Skylights are perched above this work area, allowing natural light to pour in and form striking geometric shadows within the space.
A deep soaking tub defines one of the bathrooms and sits under a window with stunning views of the lush trees. Industrial hanging glass pendants enclose a bare bulb and contrast the soft sheer drapery accenting the space. A half wall of glazed tiles harmoniously echo those in the kitchen.
An expansive back terrace overlooks the vast greenery of the farm property, features a dining table, additional fireplace nestled into a divider wall. Down a few steps is another patio featuring glazed panels embracing the pool, wooden pergola and lounging area.
Whether for a vacation get away or permanent residence, the Merricks Farm House is a modern dream home escape.
Photography by Shannon McGrath
Posted by Suzanne at 10 May, 2013
At the end of a long winding driveway lies the Pigeon Creek Residence by Lucid Architecture. This Midwestern modern dream home is situated in western Michigan amidst a forest and wetland, and possesses a solid connection to the surrounding natural landscape.
Built for a family with two young children, the owners envisioned a spacious, warm and cozy residence. Lucid Architecture took those requests and created a mainly vertical 20’ x 80’ box structure conducive to a family lifestyle.
The timber facade features a generous amount of glazed surfaces, which allow natural light to infuse the interiors. A wide cedar deck at the front leads to the home’s entry, while continuous wood flooring throughout enhances the organic vibe of the home. Once inside, the living room, kitchen, dining area and master bedroom can be found.
With a double-sided fireplace, the living space beckons the outdoors with a 24’ wall of sliding glass doors which disappear completely to create a multi-functional room. Hues of brown, beige and gold in the sectional seating and accent rug unite with the forest, while bold pink and orange throw pillows add zest. A corrugated metal roof overhang shields direct sunlight from the space during the hot summer months, yet allows for northern light to penetrate in the winter.
Further bringing nature within this modern dwelling, the colored concrete blocks of the fireplace and chimney mimic the bark of beech trees bordering the property. A soaring ceiling slants upwards towards the main box of the house, while the same horizontal wood siding used on the exterior shows through creating warmth and character.
The kitchen is vast and contemporary with smooth black cabinetry, stainless appliances and a vivid white island with seating which is a striking offset to the space. Unique storage units mounted above the countertops glow with opaque glass doors lighted from within. A bright yellow geometric block containing some of the recessed lighting adds a perky surprise.
A cantilevered switchback staircase sits just off the kitchen and ascends to a steel-riveted glass “railing” upstairs. This clever design allows light to interchange between the levels, further enhancing the airy design.
The master suite is on the northern end of the floorplan and is highlighted by a keen sliding glass pocket door which exposes this haven to the lush outdoors. The children’s bedrooms are on the second level, as is a loft ideal for play.
The Pigeon Creek Residence is a refreshing departure from the traditional design typical in this part of the country, and becomes a modern dream home perfectly suited for a family of four.
Posted by Suzanne at 9 May, 2013
Part of a traditional brownstone-lined street in Brooklyn Heights, the Mirtillo Townhouse by Leone Design Studio has been renovated into a 4,000 square-foot dwelling with a renewed and quite unique modern interpretation of an urban dream home.
The original interiors were in line with the classic four-story layout which was veritcally-driven, yet closed off by ceilings and floors. A main component of the restructure was to open the entire home to double-height ceilings where possible, as well as to add square footage which was done via a two-story rear addition of a dining room and family living area.
Rooted in the middle of this now airy home is the centerpiece staircase, boldly suspended and constructed of reclaimed blackened steel and wood beams discovered during the demolition. The stairs are embraced by a partition of industrial stainless steel cables is an illusional surprise which travel the full height of the townhome. A further element to this stunning design is the natural light which penetrates the staircase from the roof skylight perched amongst faceted walls.
The two-story addition towards the rear of the home includes a balcony dining room which joins space with the sitting room fitted with plentiful bookshelves and contemporary wood and fabric furnishings. The dining area sits directly over the spacious family room. The adjacent kitchen is sleek with state-of-the-art stainless amenities, an elongated counter and a fireplace which is flush with the wall. The entire back wall of this supplemental living space is glazed and framed in mahogany with lovely views to the outdoor dining terrace landscaped gardens of the backyard. Knotted wood floors span all levels while timeless paned windows and doors add balance to the otherwise modern aesthetic.
Downstairs, the inviting first-floor entry features a baby grand piano, Persian rug and a lime green contemporary work of art hung over a sturdy marble fireplace. On the second floor, the master bedroom is warm with golden hues and medium-toned woodwork including custom shelving and armoires. An adjoining terrace with sitting area sits upon this ‘green roof.’ The bathroom is fresh and bright with yellow walls, white trim, glass walk-in shower, as well as minimalist tub, sink basins and fixtures. Two additional bedrooms and bath reside on the top floor.
Leone Design Studio manages to meticulously balance industrial chic based with historic beauty in this masterful urban dream home.
Photos by: ©Albert Vecerka / Esto
Posted by Suzanne at 8 May, 2013
Sloped into a lush hillside along the River Thaya south of the Czech Republic lies the private Hunting Lodge. Envisioned by architectural firm Basarch, this modern stone and wood structure seems to organically emerge from the earth below. Sporting members and their guests are invited to stay for gaming or simple relaxation on this picturesque property.
Located on a game preserve and tucked into an elevated grassy berm, this eco-friendly project features a green roof which provides insulation and is naturally infiltrated with rainwater. Massive stonework and stacked timber on the concrete-block facade offer additional climate-control for the interiors, as well as a rustic palette which becomes one with the surrounding land. Large sliding glass doors and a rooftop skylight allow for dense natural light to penetrate and reflect off of the white-walled spaces. The lodge itself sits upon a flood plain and despite being consequently raised to accommodate rising water levels, still manages to camouflage effortlessly with the rural landscape.
The linear salon features an elongated table with contemporary chairs and a reinforced concrete ceiling with wood impressions which plays well against the minimalist black and white fireplace. Above the hearth, the wall space is adorned with sets of antlers from past hunting expeditions. Furnishings are sparse in wood and earth-toned fabrics.
The ceiling of this main living area is raised towards the skylight, creating height which enhances both ventilation and an airy ambiance. Fully retractable glass walls open to a terrace overlooking the vast preserve roaming with wildlife. Such idyllic design distinctively blurs the boundaries between inside and the great outdoors.
The kitchen is masculine, with sleek stainless cabinetry and black glass tiles and range. Three bedrooms with modular beds and animal skin rugs, clean-lined baths and various work and storage areas complete the rest of the one-story floor plan.
The Hunting Lodge by Basarch exemplifies the natural essence of structural, functional and green modern design.
Posted by Suzanne at 6 May, 2013
