Dream Homes
Designed by San Francisco-based John Lum Architecture, the Nordquist Residence in Eureka Valley was completely renovated into a modern dream home while retaining the unique Edwardian architectural details of the building.
This 1890s-era, two-family home had a traditional floorplan of clutters of small rooms. The architects began with a total refurbishment of the rotting wooden decks, and carried through the rebuild to knock down existing walls, creating sun-filled great rooms for each of the units, as well as open kitche
The kitchen, as is true with most, is the hub of entertaining and living. A compact area, this exposed cooking area was cleverly redesigned. Charcoal grey cabinets beneath smooth white quartzite countertops and brick tiles anchor the space and blend well with the rest of the home, while high-gloss white cabinetry above creates the illusion of a taller ceiling. The elongated white island holds the deep stainless steel sink and is wrapped in aluminum grating which adds a clean and industrial contrast to the warm wood flooring.
The great room flows off of this space, where an intense, hot-rolled blackened steel fireplace draws the eye. Powder-coated casement style windows along walls and within corners shed abundant light and provide beautiful views of Eureka Valley. Each window opens, allowing for energy-saving ventilation. Striking cedar-wood plank ceilings finished in a matte clear-coat add a warm vibrance to this living area, while the bubble ball pendant in white adds bright interest. The client’s passion for mid-century Scandinavian furnishings pays off–the earthy woods, tweeds and sleek curves add a not-too-serious tone to the room.
A modern workspace is neatly tucked into alcove featuring formal Edwardian details. The free-form, mod wooden desk creates a dynamic interplay between the two vastly different design eras. A nearby bathroom clad in bead board is painted a rich grey with blue ribbon within the top perimeter, matching the ceiling and inducing an airy feel to this otherwise small space which lends a neo-Edwardian style.
Bedrooms are spacious each contributing their own personality to the eclectic contemporary home. Classic paneled pocket doors offer a grand feel while entering the bedroom, while geometrics on the bedding, a red lacquer side table and swing arm lamp contribute a fresh, contemporary look.
The Nordquist Residence by John Lum Architecture portrays how excellence in modern dream home design can prevail when attention to detail is paid and respect for historical style is mastered.
Posted by Suzanne at 17 May, 2013
After searching for the perfect location for their holiday home, the clients of Nolaster Architects of Madrid, Spain landed upon the OS House, a modern dream home in an unexpected location.
Perched high above the rocky ocean cliffs in the summer resort area of Loredo in Ribamontan al Mar, Catabria, Spain, this green home sits on a plot of land that many earlier prospects walked away from due to the high-winds of the area. The residents, however, embraced the natural landscape and its resources, and with the innovative work of Nolaster, were able to create a dwelling that was both eco-chic and highly conducive to a family lifestyle.
The facade is comprised of zinc panels that weather well with the salt air and act as folding shutters to shield sun as well as inclement weather. A modular home of sorts, the panels were joined together with nuts and bolts versus welding so they could easily be dismantled, moved, and/or recycled later on. Radiant floor heating is controlled by each room.
The green roof which encompasses the entire home save for one stairwell opening, helps shield winds and capture eco-energies, while the inner yard is protected from the winds while offering rainwater collection and reuse like flushing toilets, and watering the roof and garden. This area also acts as a lounging terrace for taking in the ocean views. An cantilevered staircase alongside the home’s exterior acts as planters for additional greenery.
This contemporary dwelling is visually flush, parallel with the horizon, allowing for uninterrupted views of the coastline from beyond. The front portion of the home overlooks the sea, while the rear crouches into the earth, supported by stilts and sheltered from the direct winds off of the sea. Polished pale wood flooring cascades across the entire home featuring vast glazed picture windows and select doors which open to the outside. The living room, dining room, library and office have mid-century furnishings in white, beige, red, black and warm woods which create a comfortable environment.
The master bedroom is clean-lined with a sliding wall that opens to the well-appointed red-tiled ensuite bath. The children’s bedroom spills unto a designated playroom. In addition, this home can actually sleep up to 24–a true vacation home! Ancillary basic spaces of the home include patios, lounges and multi-use rooms which contribute to the flexibility of the floorplan.
Embracing the winds and waves indigenous to the open land, the OS House by Nolaster provides a low-impact, practical and visually stunning minimalist dream home for a family to relax and grow in.
Posted by Suzanne at 16 May, 2013
The Shelter Island Home by Michael Haverland Architect is a modern dream home perched on the highest peak of the bayfront land. Careful consideration was taken during the planning phase of this 3,400 square foot, two-story addition to engage only in design principles harmonious with the existing beach cottage, which was retained for ecological purposes.
Natural stucco, glass and steel were the primary materials of the new structure, while the two classic pitched roofs are synonymous with the traditional style of the home. Large glass windows with oversize panes are abundant and remarkable for taking in the bay views. The structures were positioned according to exposure, with the living room facing north towards Connecticut. The master suite and guest room garner added privacy in the northwest, a space which also affords the beautiful sunsets.
The original cottage features a new floorplan, allowing for a spacious kitchen, dedicated dining room, breakfast porch with built-in pine furniture, as well as four bedrooms. It is joined with the new dwelling via a central vestibule, flat roof and deck area.
Most eye-catching are the colorful interiors of the living room, which feature entire walls of windows which soar, following the lines of the pitched roof. Pulses of blue, green, pink, aqua and red enliven this room which is clearly meant for entertainment, games and good times. Furnishings are an eclectic mix of custom pieces, as well as mid-century styles including the varied and whimsical lighting fixtures. Scattered area rugs mimic the blues of the mesmerizing water, which meets the edge of the sloping lush green lawn immediately outside this living area. An outdoor patio with endless northwest water views features a custom mahogany dining table and chairs.
The master bedroom is bathed in both natural light off of the bay side, as well as southern light which basks the space from opposite end. A post and beam evokes the historical structure of the original house, while an exposed loft-like space brings a modern vibe to the room. The silver bed from India and mirrored accents are serene against the bright yellow lacquered bed stands. Farmhouse-style sinks with gooseneck fixtures adorn the master bath which is warm with oak wood on walls and floors. Southern exposure and lines of trees just outside bring aspects of nature in.
The Shelter Island Home by Michael Haverland Architect exemplifies how classic structures can be used as a foundation for the creation of a modern dream home, especially when abundant natural elements such as water and land aid in the overall design aesthetic.
Posted by Suzanne at 16 May, 2013
LA-based architecture firm, Brooks + Scarpa implemented progressive methods when drastically renovating the Yin-Yang House, an environmentally-sustainable modern dream home suiting a family of six.
Located in a beachside neighborhood of Venice, the 4,700 square-foot L-shaped residence harmoniously combines live-work spaces with the ultimate Southern California living style. The street-facing facade of wood, steel, cement board and glass impresses while creating the illusion of a solid, single-scaled structure. However, once through the recycled steel front door, the dwelling opens to the vast courtyards allowing for seamless indoor-outdoor recreating. From the rear view of the residence, the second level is apparent. The family requested this freedom of shared living spaces in that both parents work from home and the teenage children needed some separate areas when having friends over.
Considered a net-zero energy structure, the home retains passive solar design strategies including a 12 kW system, a tight perimeter/smaller footprint, maximization of sun and wind energies, as well as two green roofs which clean the air and harness storm water runoff. Blown-in cellulose insulation and radiant flooring were used throughout. In addition, 80% of the construction waste was recycled.
The one-room deep first floor features a spacious home office separated from the rest of the residence by a smaller courtyard. The flowing kitchen, living room and dining room on the other side are highlighted by a 50-foot wide sliding glass door which opens to the backyard patio and pool. This ingenious wall gathers optimum daylight and generates natural ventilation. Mid-century modern furnishings fill the airy spaces, while linear bamboo walls and a gleaming white kitchen bring a clean vibe to the interiors.
Four small bedrooms are located at the top of a rear bamboo “stadium” staircase with metal grid railing. The cantilevered roof is laden with solar panels and also provides keen shade for both the bedrooms and open living spaces below. All bedroom have access to both the exterior porch hallway, as well as an internal one. The bedrooms were intentionally designed to be cozier quarters allowing for the rest of the floorplan’s living areas to possess maximum space. Defined linear edges of steel bands across the exterior visually meld the contemporary structures.
With innovative spatial planning and high-caliber sustainable energy systems (the residents have yet to have a power bill), the Yin-Yang residence is a modern “green” dream home in functional and aesthetic balance.
Posted by Suzanne at 15 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
Designed for a discerning bachelor, the Rox Residence in Toronto is a bright modern dream home designed by Shirley Meisels of MHouse Inc.
Perhaps the most enviable and well-planned space of this home is the master closet. The client travels frequently for work and needed a sizable space to pack clothing, as well as store laundry. This room is really an integrated lounge and closet, replete with a large coffee table, flat-screen television, smooth-paneled walnut cabinetry and vivid yellow molded chair with ottoman. Glass doors allow natural light to fill this area, while an Ingo Maurer white paper chandelier adds whimsy.
The home’s entry opens directly onto the dining room which features an innovative steel bench to visually and literally divide the space. The custom-made modern farmtable is offset by six mid-century white and chrome chairs. Smoked oak floors provide a rustic contrast and help define the interior. An intentionally off-centered globe chandelier bursts with mini lights.
The connecting kitchen is striking with walnut and white cabinetry stacked into the recessed backsplash wall which is sheathed in Calacatta marble. A massive island features the same color scheme and is flanked by three contemporary white and chrome bar stools. The palette of greys and whites effectively softens the modern edges.
A casual, second floor den possesses a windowed wall which frames the exterior views and sheds light on the space. Mounted rock posters collected by the owner are displayed above the sectional sofa. Colors here are muted creating a relaxed environment.
The living room wall is a stand-out with a five-foot, horizontal fireplace. To mimic the look of poured concrete (which proved to be too expensive and time intensive), 24 x 48 inch porcelain tiles were used. Furnishings are contemporary with a clear square glass coffee table centering the space and an Eames lounge chair adding iconic modern appeal. The handwoven rug from Nepal pops with neon florals, picking up on the punch of yellow fabric chairs surrounding it. Plentiful windows feature mechanized blinds to help diffuse the sunlight when desired.
The master bedroom is rich with dark grey patterned wallpaper, a solid walnut bed and plush rug. A softly curved side chair offsets the geometric-framed windows. The adjoining bathroom is a small space that was expanded by a mirrored medicine cabinet, suspended custom white-oak vanity and glazed wall. The walk-in, Calacatta marble shower features lights and rainhead on the ceiling, as well as an extraordinary freestanding tub.
With inventive design elements, art collections and beautiful, high-end furnishings, the Rox Residence is a most desirable modern dream home.
Posted by Suzanne at 13 May, 2013
Envisioned with an eclectic eye by the artist/designer himself, the modern dream apartment of Greg Baker of Ambassador Home manages to encapsulate a melodious mix of warm woods, ethnic accents, contemporary lines and rich textiles that make the space ultra-inviting.
Located in the city of Perth in Western Australia, this flat was originally built in the 1970s and possessed a limited, closed-in floorplan. Greg and his father personally renovated the space, knocking down walls and enhancing the living areas to be more functional and conducive to the owner’s lifestyle. The color scheme is earthy and sumptuous with gold, cream, beige, brown, grey and black coming into play throughout.
Creating interest is the decisive design of the living room and master bedroom. Both are open to each other, yet afford enough privacy to make the distinction between the somewhat shared space. A central wall remains in tact, with openings on either side of it expanding the area and gathering natural light from the dining room’s glass doors.
While initially a smaller space, the bedroom now escapes constraint with a furnished sitting area. A fully mirrored wall behind the bed exhibits an oversized photographic artwork and bounces light from both the outside and table lamps perched in front of it. The bathroom features a combined step-in tub and shower with glazed wall, and a minimalist wood vanity with cool white basin.
Adjoining the bedroom is the living room which is anchored by a stunning, customized EcoSmart ethanol fireplace which is housed in an elongated unit also storing books, CDs and displaying a collection of intriguing–sometimes playful–objects d’art which are dotted amongst the interiors. A beautiful cowhide and chrome-legged bench ties together the other contemporary furnishings of leather and sturdy woven fabric. The shared dining room sits adjacent to a sliding glass door leading to the terrace. Mid-century modern chairs surround the rustic wood table.
The kitchen is streamlined and practical with a center island discreetly housing the refrigerator, freezer, cooktop and oven. This space becomes perfect for entertaining guests as it is unfolds unto to the main living areas.
Greg Baker’s modern dream home is a thought-provoking apartment that magnificently redines the quintessential bachelor pad. (via)
Photography by Ross Swanborough
Posted by Suzanne at 13 May, 2013
