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The new second-story addition, clad in Hardie Lap Siding and painted in Benjamin Moore Deep Sea, creates a bold contrast with the existing home's cedar shingles in Black Panther.

The screen was a cheaper option than glass, and diffuses the light to the interiors.

Ogawa and Fisher designed a new walk-in closet for the primary bedroom.

A small backyard camper makes for a fun hideaway when friends and family come to visit.

"My favorite space is probably the breezeway, where I can fully appreciate the majestic trees and feel a deep connection to nature,

The kitchen seamlessly connects the dining area to the living room.

The dining table is vintage solid oak from Vintage on Point. The chairs are vintage chrome and maroon velvet from Vintage on Point, and black leather metal frame cantilever chairs sourced from Palm Springs Flea Market.

Also in the foyer, beside a wall of glass that brings light into the living/dining area, is storagefor coats, bags and shoes.

The renovation created space for a new entry foyer, separated from the living room by a wall with a large interior window-like opening.

The new dining room, at the clients' request, was kept distinct from the kitchen just behind it, which also provided room for additional shelving. Architect Michael Howells co-designed the rug.

Ali and Mentor share a laugh in the living area.

The reading nook was a special request of Ali’s. “She wanted a semihidden corner that was still connected to the living room,” says Syla. “It’s a special spot.”

After: The living room overlooks the great room below. Now when you walk in the house, you can see clear out to the trees in the back—an idea sparked by an interior designer friend who commented that the most important aspect of a design is what you see when you walk in the front door.

A built-in bench provides seating for the 10-foot-long dining table, which Lanigan found at a store in Berkley that was going out of business. “It almost feels like it grows out of the floor,” says Lanigan. (The fireplace tile here is original.)

Custom furniture sits atop an Ikea rug. The custom fluted glass door opens to the hallway running through the house.

The hot tub is a highlight of the home. “It was worth the investment,” says Kara. “Especially late at night when you can see the stars.”