Situated on a sloped-site, each renovated space provides a unique perspective and vista to the dramatic natural surroundings. The office, with its stark modern furnishings and subtle artwork, allows the large window to serve as perhaps the most dramatic, singular frame to the foliage beyond.

The living room Ortal fireplace is clad in cold-rolled steel with a waxed finish. The side chairs, vintage reproductions from Room and Board, feature shapely walnut arms.

The crumbling stone walls of a 17th-century farmhouse in the remote countryside of Dumfries, Scotland, presented a unique renovation opportunity for Lily Jencks Studio and Nathanael Dorent Architecture, the teams behind this project. Rather than demolish the old walls, they inserted a crisp, modern home within them, so as to emphasize the site's history and passage of time.

Inspirational spaces

Outside, a triangular saltwater pool overlooks breathtaking views.

A yellow epoxy floor matches the sconce in the tiny bathroom that sits under the staircase.

Designed by Belgium architectural studio OYO Architects, this 1,883-square-foot family residence in Maldegem, East Flanders, was conceived with a single green roof that meets the grass at ground level. The concrete base of the structure supports a lightweight timber frame, which was assembled in a local warehouse before being mounted on site. Different plants are grown on the green roof throughout the seasons.

Heva was designed by A6A and manufactured by My Little Loft. A spacious deck and large glass doors allow for seamless indoor/outdoor living.

2206 Parklands Lane, Saint Louis Park, MN 55416

Though this home is close to downtown Minneapolis, it sits on a quiet, 3.77-acre piece of land. When you approach the brick home, it immediately becomes clear that it’s a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home—thanks to its wing-like shape and Cherokee Red-painted steps.

Completed in 1946, the Booth House was originally built for an advertising executive and his wife before becoming a rental property in 1955 for the architectural photographer Robert Damora, and architect Sirkka Damora. The Damoras later purchased the home and have lived there ever since. Now 93 years old, Sirkka has been seeking a new owner for this piece of architectural history. Litigation over the title means that the Booth House could face being torn down—so its buyer will also be its rescuer.

In this photo of the Diamond Street House taken by Julius Shulman, Lyster Brock (left) stands next to his brother on his father's roof truss.

While effortlessly chic and minimalist in the final photography, Arch11 noted that much of the success of this project can be attributed to working with a construction team dedicated to craftsmanship. “Even though this modern [design] language is common, a lot of Hale Construction’s work is restoration. He [Andrew Hale] practiced his craft at the highest level,” noted Meade.

It's tough to be productive when you're uncomfortable: the 11+ Bottle Humidifier ($90) is a superbly sculptural device that can improve any office atmosphere, visually and literally. Its ultrasonic nebulizer automatically deactivates when its water is completed, ensuring no energy is wasted.

In Lorne, Victoria, Austin Maynard Architects gave an old shack near the beach a modern revamp and a timber extension that allows for elevated sea views. With interiors lined in recycled Silvertop Ash, the house oozes a cozy, cabin-like feel.

While the original home was dark, like other homes of its period, the addition allowed Andrews and his team to let in an abundance of natural light.

Casa Volta, located in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, sits among a lush landscape mere steps away from the Pacific Ocean. The almost 1,300-square-foot plan is made of six rectangular areas—alternating between open terraces and the three covered structures.