Before visitors step inside SCH House, they encounter a design approach shaped by the unique conditions of its surroundings. The architects at Ollech + Tol confronted challenging terrain, municipal requirements for stone facades, and the homeowner’s aspirations for a modern yet rooted residence.
Set low against a north-facing hillside on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the Bayview Tree House settles seamlessly among spotted gum eucalypts and, moreover, catches glimpses of Pittwater and Lion Island beyond. Initially, the project began with the bones of a 1970s brick-and-weatherboard beach house
Beaconsfield House, designed by John Pardey Architects, stands shoulder-to-shoulder with a row of suburban neighbors that lean toward a certain mass-produced historicism—sometimes affectionately, sometimes derisively, termed “Tescobethan.”
Inspired by Octavio Paz’s poem The Simple Life, Shanghai Villa, designed by P&H Interior Architecture Design, embodies the idea that “home is just home.” This philosophy guided the project, replacing grandeur with authenticity and creating a space that exudes friendliness and intimacy.
Nestled in Tarrytown, a charming neighborhood west of Austin’s urban core, Sightline Residence embraces its narrow lot with a design that blends seamlessly into the lush, oak-shaded surroundings. Designed by North Arrow Studio, this home balances midcentury inspiration with a contemporary sensibility, respecting the scale and character of the neighborhood while delivering a modern living experience.
The Two-Home Development in Philadelphia’s historic Fitler Square neighborhood represents a groundbreaking approach to urban design. Conceived by LO Design, this project transforms a once-neglected parking lot into two contemporary single-family residences that blend seamlessly with their surroundings while standing out through innovative architectural choices.
Perched among the trees on challenging terrain, Icicle House, also called “The Treefort,” showcases innovation and determination. Syndicate Smith designed this modern three-story retreat to provide a growing family with a serene weekend getaway while respecting the natural environment.
The Historic Society Hill Townhouse showcases how thoughtful design can transform a historic home into a functional, modern living space. Situated in Philadelphia’s Society Hill, this 4,000-square-foot townhouse underwent a lower-level renovation led by LO Design. The project successfully blends contemporary family needs with the timeless charm of a historic structure.
