Kitchen

In contrast to the dark, almost monolithic exterior, the interior is full of light, thanks in part to the whitewashed woodwork and floors. “Because the space is so small, I felt I needed to allow the light to travel all over,” says Samantha. The undercounter refrigerator and freezer are by Summit Appliance. Much of the furniture, like the dining table, is built-in.

To avoid formality, Phillips created a different environment for each room. The kitchen, for example, is understated by virtue of its simple cabinetry by Boffi, and its white walls that flow with the rest of the house. “What we love about living here,” says Judith, “is that it works well with our young family. There is plenty of daylight, all the latest technology, and we don’t have to worry about sticky fingers destroying anything.”

The residence architect Cary Bernstein designed for Scott Croyle and his family is an exercise in hide-and-seek. Clever storage keeps the space clutter-free and lets the structure shine. In the entryway, drawers tuck under the mezzanine, niches hold artwork, and speakers are built in line with the cabinets.