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Alloi's design solution for the exterior envelope included exterior rigid insulation to reduce solar heat gain, and recycled newspaper blown-in cellulose insulation at interior and exterior walls, creating an energy efficient and peacefully quiet home.

On the home's east side, the overhang created by the second story volume shades the front door while still allowing morning light into the bedrooms.

A perfectly groomed backyard lawn with a paver patio.

The simple wood deck features innovative cutouts that allow full-grown Yucca trees to peek through.

In the backyard, the couple added a pergola, greenhouse, and outdoor dining space for $6,000.

Natalie and Lauren wanted to replicate the feel of a Zen garden with their home’s central courtyard. The garden features a Japanese maple that pops against the charred timber cladding, while structurally, the U-shape design ushers light right through to the back of the house.

“Our drive to have a landscaped garden was for the kids to be able to have a space where they could adventure around the place,” says Natalie. “And part of what we enjoy is being able to sit and admire something that’s so beautiful.” They chose hardy Australian native plants to make the garden easy to maintain with minimal water.

The simple wood exterior can be customized based on the owner's wishes.

The garden is planted with araça, bacupari and aroeira trees, all native varieties.

The family spends much more time together in the rear yard since the renovation.