Swoope

“Many of our customers watch remodel shows on television for inspiration and are under the impression that an entire kitchen can be remodeled in a few days,” explains Carter. “We explain it can typically take up to 12 weeks for a complete remodel and two to six weeks for a ‘swap the top,’ new paint, and appliances.”

Floor Plan of Summertown House by Troppo Architects and Fabrikate

High-level windows in the north gable, and on either side of the fireplace allow the sun to reach deep into the living room to be absorbed by the thermal mass of the polished concrete floor,

All paints and oils used throughout the home have low VOCs, and there are rainwater storage tanks and a solar system outside. Double-glazed windows were used throughout the home.

The couple chose polished concrete throughout the home to contrast alongside more textural timber. The concrete has thermal heating below it to stay warm in the winter.

All paints and oils used throughout the home have low VOCs, and there are rainwater storage tanks and a solar system outside.

Fabrikate custom designed the Blackbutt cabinetry in the kitchen, with marble stone on the countertops. The lights above the dining table were found and repurposed.

The owners wanted a gabled roof, which can be seen at the front, and a cross-like layout allows them to maximize space, light, and views.

After staying in a tree house listed on Airbnb, Remo Kommnick and Emi Moore wanted their own getaway in the woods. "It was amazing being up in the trees,

Before: The entry was confined to a narrow stairway and hall, with a “hidey hole” for the dog.

Dark furnishings, light fixtures, and cabinetry complete the insular, protective feel of the interiors. The dining table was custom-designed by the architects and crafted from recycled wood from Vinuela's grandfather.

The gable roof and L-shaped structure add a buffer against the sound of winds blowing at up to 45 miles per hour. “You don’t hear the outside,” says Ravi.

During storm season, nature’s awe-inspiring light show is on full display through the oversized windows.

The large sliding doors in the common area open to the courtyard to bring the outside in.

"You look down to the water, and you know you’ve arrived somewhere and escaped the world behind you," says architect Ravi Handa.

Light oak panels by Finsa clad both the kitchen cabinetry and the built-in units that appear in the living room and entryway. "We used natural materials where we could, but we were also mindful of keeping high-touch surfaces durable," explains Anne-Marie Armstrong, co-principal of AAmp Studio.