Arch

Mary Henning and Ann Wansbrough's renovation of a semidetached cottage enables them to use 75 percent less town water than the average two-person home.

The large windows let in fresh breezes and provide an opportunity for the owners to jump out of the house and into the water.

In Los Angeles, homeowner Bill Thompson warmed up his otherwise dark living room with a series of Douglas fir slats applied above the fireplace, as well as other wood accents throughout the room; the slats provide both texture and pattern to the fireplace, acting as a focal point and emphasizing the space's vertical height.

Miha hangs out with Kea, the dog, on the wooden deck that extends the living space outdoors.