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Natural light was very important for homeowners, incorporated though plentiful clerestory glass and indoor-outdoor access.

The front of the home has a ramp entrance that leads to a wraparound deck.

The family of four and their guests can sit on a low railing that acts as a bench to take in the views.

The attic has space for a compact sleeping area, which can host adventurous guests.

"I really appreciate as a designer, things that make me stop and go, 'Oh, I never thought of that,'

A custom-built island anchors the kitchen-dining area, the most social area of the home.

The combined kitchen and dining room, featuring two pieces of family-heirloom furniture, feel spacious thanks to a vaulted ceiling; it and the walls are clad in Douglas fir.

"The kids love playing and singing and I have this principle that if things aren't visible or easy to get, you won't use them. For them to play, their toys need to be visible, or if we want to cook, the food has to be visible."

An enormous bread oven was uncovered during the works, completely changing the vision for the new kitchen. As a result, the couple had to re-apply for planning permissions to incorporate it into the kitchen. The blue Verner Panton Flower Pot pendant lamp over the center island is a nod to the blue staircase and acts as a counterpoint to the earthy tones. “It’s one of my favorite purchases for the house,” says Simon.

Architect Ana Smud’s residence in the Vicente López suburb of Buenos Aires is surrounded by gardens and wrapped in timber, concrete, and glass.