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The couple took advantage of numerous municipal programs when landscaping the backyard. Mandy recently completed a free course through LADWP, who also promotes resources for the SoCal Turf Replacement Program, to become a certified California Native Plant Landscape: “There is an amazing amount of knowledge and resources for transitioning yards with more native/drought-tolerant plants through LADWP and the Theodore Payne Foundation,” says Mandy.

A new pergola completes the outdoor dining area set against an abundant bougainvillea backdrop.

The cabin is made from Finnish wood, and can be at your doorstep six weeks after placing an order.

Using a joinery technique, the team integrated the natural tapering of the void into storage spaces, shelves, and seating.

Undeterred by the pandemic—and with their one-year-old daughter in tow—Danielle and Ely Franko spend seven months overhauling a former hay barn.

Once dark and cloistered, this residence revamped by Jon Powell Architecture now revels in daylight, bright color, and garden views.

The owners toured this home, which surrounds a mature tipu tipu tree, while visiting relatives for the day. The brick is original to the 1947 construction.

The back garden easement was originally a cartway for coal deliveries. “The cobblestones add a timeless element,” says Maureen.

Day time facade looking straight on: A private residence in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, with its perforated brick facade being devised by programmatic needs.

Using a contemporary play on vintage ski cabins in Vermont, architect David R. Maclean designed a modern home that takes advantage of sweeping valley views and opens up to the surrounding forested landscape.

The design team used granite elements for landscaping and kept plantings simple and cohesive with the existing site.

The former laundry space was refashioned into a windowside booth, its built-in shelves, walls and ceilings painted red. It's become popular with kids and visitors.

In the kitchen, quartzite kitchen island countertops and a wall of off-white ceramic tile complement the walnut cabinetry and brass surfaces.

Merritt Amanti Palminteri and Rogers Hawley revamped their Monterey bungalow without expanding its footprint.

Adamant about floor-to-ceiling windows but reeling from sticker shock, Chau tapped local fabricators Arnold Iron Works and Strong Tempering Glass to create custom glazing, which proved much more affordable. The glass is reflective on the street side, creating a mirror effect.