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The ADU's kitchenette is tucked into one side of the structure, with a ladder leading to a carpeted playroom for the kids. "It's a great example of a family home that doesn't always look like it,

Before: An early-1900s era row house in Brooklyn received a two-story addition to bring in light and add living space. Sagging floors and joists meant that the home also needed a complete structural update in the process.

In one of several distinct outdoor spaces, a pink terrazzo tub creates an oasis under the palms.

“Watching the sunrise and moonrise from the living room is gobsmacking,” says James.

Valencia is the epicenter of the ceramics industry in Spain, and richly patterned flooring crafted in mosaics or tiles made of colored cement are a feature of older apartments and homes.

Designer and artist Jaime Hayon renovated a 1920s apartment in Valencia, Spain, into a vibrant guesthouse and artist’s residency.

The home is located on

The floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and windows were the most expensive line item in the renovation. “The house would simply not be the same without them,” says architect Miguel Rivera. “When you are in the living area with the doors open, it creates one large indoor/outdoor space that is simply stunning.” Just beyond the kitchen, a bookcase in the hallway is painted to appear red from one side and gray from the other.

The bold yet minimalist residence sits lightly on the land and engages with the surrounding scenery.

White oak flooring now feels much lighter and brighter.

The second-floor bathroom has brightly colored tiles and a large, walk-in shower.

Once through the street-level entrance, the property's modern garage door comes into view. Stairs lead up to the kitchen.

Use this as a guide to finding the right architect for your new home or renovation—and what to expect during the process.

Before: When Gerson first visited the apartment, he was struck by its unique ceiling. "The overhead slab was board-formed," says Gerson. "You don't see that all that often. You see board-formed walls, but not board-formed ceilings."

The firm preserved many key features of the 1,100-square-foot loft, including the beautifully textured ceiling.