A More Dramatic Curve

On Tuesday we featured doorways with curves–from just a hint of drama. Now let’s take a look at larger curved windows that make a bigger impact on the architecture of a home. Photo by Gelotte Hommas Architecture – Seattle design comes to life with curved windows. The rectangular windows of the craftsman home are typical …

A Little Curve

Modern architecture tends to be a proliferation of straight lines, but it doesn’t have to be. Adding curved elements creates whimsy and interest in the home. Rounded doors with windows are particularly nice for creating a welcoming entrance or focal point for a room. These curved top french doors leading to a small balcony make …

Erasing the Line Between Indoors and Outdoors

The world outside has always been separated from the interior of the home by walls and windows. This is great in the winter, when keeping the elements out is a home’s top priority. But what about when the weather is nice and the lakefront views are calling? Then the most that can be hoped for …

Soaking in Serenity

A bathroom is a necessity, but it can also be a luxury. A well designed layout with expertly styled decor can transform a simple bathroom into an awe inspiring space. Here are some custom bathrooms that are so luxurious you may never need to go to a spa again. Photo by Gelotte Hommas Architecture  This …

Setting the Stage

The area around a home can impact the way the home looks almost as much as the architecture. Landscaping that severely contrasts with the style of the home can detract from the beautiful aesthetic. It is important to give the yard some thought when designing a home. A solid plan does not have to be …

Work-from-home Options

The home office use to be the realm of CEOs and intrepid entrepreneurs, but  things have changed. Of course, a home office can still be used for running your business, but it doesn’t have to be. Having a space to store important documents and work on home budgeting can be just as significant. With the …

Pool Party

With the 4th of July holiday this weekend, many people probably wish they had a pool in their backyard in which to cool off. You may think that a pool will only fit a certain type of house, but these days a home pool can be designed to fit with any architectural style. Photo by …

Paper for a Pop of Color

There are a myriad of ways to add color and interest to a room but one which we often forget about is wallpaper. Decorating with wallpaper got its start during the Renaissance when people couldn’t get their hands on tapestries but still wanted to spruce up their rooms with large pretty pictures. Over the centuries, …

Dining with Style

On Tuesday we looked at how some homes are now combining the kitchen, dining and living rooms into one large multi-use space. For some, this is a highly functional layout that fits a laid back lifestyle while others might want something more structured. So today we will look at examples of formal dining rooms which …

At the Heart of the Home

Trends come and go but one that seems to be sticking around is the kitchen as the center of the home. Industry experts report that while overall home size is getting smaller, particularly in urban areas, kitchen sizes are staying the same or even getting larger. This is due to the fact that the kitchen …