Houses We Love: Every day we feature a remarkable space submitted by our community of architects, designers, builders, and homeowners. Have one to share? Post it here.

Project Details:

Location: Dilbeek, Belgium

Architect: Madam Architectuur / @madamarchitectuur

Footprint: 2,583 square feet

Structural Engineer: Paridaens

Landscape Design: Frederik Cassiman

Photographer: Olmo Peeters / @oooolmoooo

From the Architect: “Sofie is a house full of character, located in Dilbeek, Belgium, in a very green environment. The house needed to be completely renovated but also partly extended. There were many beautiful elements present that we wanted to preserve: wooden floors, moldings, decorative wooden elements around windows and doors, and stairs—but above all we wanted to restore the existing volume.

“Madam chose to create an extension on the north side relative to the house to allow east and west sunlight to enter the home. That side also offers the best view to the fields in front and the garden in the back.

“Both the extension and the terrace are constructed using a green pigmented polished concrete, so inside and outside appear literally flow into each other. In terms of materiality, the existing house is very austere, identical to its former condition. The extension is clad in glazed green tiles for a captivating contrast between existing and new. Inside the house there is an interconnection of smaller spaces, resulting in cozy places with their own character, different views, varying light, and distinct atmospheres.”

Welcome to How They Pulled It Off, where we take a close look at one particularly challenging aspect of a home design and get the nitty-gritty details about how it became a reality.

When a Washington, D.C. couple with four small children approached Cedar Architecture about designing a passive home, architect Deborah Buelow knew that her first job would be to orient the house towards sunlight. She quickly realized that sighting the house towards the sun might mean putting the largest windows in public view—which neither she nor the family wanted—so Buelow created an eye-catching, sun-catching workaround.

“We ended up turning the house inward and backward a bit,” Buelow explains. “That way, we could bring in the southern sun through a central stairwell.” The home has two main levels plus a basement, and the wide, open stairwell allows sunlight to reach all three floors. “We were really trying to bring light deep in,” she says.

The stairwell also unifies the home while dividing the space into its different functions—the downstairs living area, the upstairs sleeping area and so on. However, the clients were concerned that their little ones might not be safe around the stairs.

“There was a certain amount of insecurity about the handrails being insufficient,” Buelow says. “This was more of a mental issue. The handrail would keep them safe, but psychologically they felt like it might not.”

Many of us have felt nervous climbing a wide, open staircase, and Buelow knew it was her job to make everyone who spent time in this home feel as comfortable as possible. When the owners suggested working with Treenet Collective to build a net that could hang within the staircase and break a fall, Buelow was ready to start collaborating.

“I thought it was brilliant,” she said. “We had this high-end architecture, but we were also building a family home. We wanted an element that could engage the kids on a humane scale.”

Treenet Collective worked in the space for a week and a half. They took the homeowners’ idea of building a colorful net and expanded it into what became a rainbow whirl—or, as it’s now called, the “Rainbow Tornado.” The piece is sculptural, colorful, and dynamic. It also provides the necessary psychological relief to anyone climbing up or down the stairs. 

How they pulled it off: A home that provides peace of mind for parents and children

• The stairwell was partially under construction when the homeowners became concerned about the possibility of someone falling over the railing. Cedar Architecture solved this problem by raising the railing from a standard 36″ to a full 42″ high, but by that point the idea of the net had already been proposed. Buelow understood that the net could serve as both an additional layer of safety and a fun design element, so she decided to explore the possibilities.

• The homeowners initially wanted Treenet Collective to create a climbable net that the children could play on. The architects considered this but ultimately decided that a functional net wouldn’t be feasible, and Treenet Collective was brought in to create an art piece instead.

• The Rainbow Tornado was constructed out of a thinner version of the paracord that is used for rock climbing. The space it was designed to cover is 16’ high and 30″ wide, but the structure itself only spans from the first floor to the second, making it 11’ high. The gaps between paracord elements are variable, but the anchors were placed approximately 2 ½” apart. This makes the netting fairly compact and ensures that very little can fall through.

“We are a collaborative design firm and love working with other design-oriented thinkers to come up with solutions,” Buelow explains. “The Treenet Collective approached the project in the same way. By the time they came on board, we had already decided it wasn’t possible to do a net, so they knew they were coming in to do something a little different than they normally do.”

Thinking carefully about peace of mind may also generate some unexpected benefits. The Rainbow Tornado has never had to break a human’s fall, but it has caught a toy or two that might otherwise have tumbled to the basement. Most importantly, it’s brought joy to the entire family by helping them live more comfortably in their space.

As Buelow explains, it, “A home is a safety net.”

Project Credits

Architect: Cedar Architecture
Builder: Thorsen Construction
Interior Decorator: Madigan Schuler
Net: Treenet Collective
Passive House Consultant: Peabody-Fine Architects
Passive House Rater: Chris Conway
Structural Engineer: APAC Engineering
M/E/P Engineer: MaGrann Associates
Civil: RC Fields
Geotechnical: Geotech Engineers 

Related Reading:

How They Pulled It Off: A Twisty, Floating Staircase for a 14-Foot Ceiling

How They Pulled It Off: A Secret Stair Hatch That Seals Off the Living Space

While spring is associated with the first gentle drops of April rain or a delicate garden full of fresh flowers, this year’s trends are leaning towards something a bit richer. Instead of the usual soft pastels, we’re seeing textiles embrace deeper, more grounding tones—bringing nature indoors in a bold new way.

Perennials is leading this rich retreat back to nature with their new Down to Earth collection, featuring six new fabrics, four new rug offerings, and nine new wallcovering designs—all of which take the warmth and tranquility of the outdoors and bring them in. They are also introducing a new signature colorway called Fearless Green, which captures the beauty and strength of nature all the way down to its name.

For over 25 years, Perennials has been a pioneer in luxurious, 100 percent solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, renowned for their timeless durability in even the harshest outdoor elements. It’s this striking balance of practicality-meets-pattern that infuses an earthy elegance into every piece they make. 

In the Down to Earth collection, it’s all about earthy tones and retro vibes, as seen in the six new fabric offerings: Shadow Stripe, a fresh take on gingham; Two Step, with a cozy brush-pill texture; Common Ground, a light waffle knit; Comfort Zone, a perfectly chunky basket weave; Fresh Air, with delicate stitching and a tonal pinstripe; and Sheer Joy, which brings a slight shimmer that flecks in the light.

The four new rugs in the collection are equally unique, all taking cues from the natural world without resorting to cookie-cutter motifs: In Bloom is a whimsical watercolor design featuring light florals (with a matching wallpaper to complete the look); Call of the Wild is a double shag rug with a little edge to it; Natural High is a plush Tibetan knot design that gives you the illusion of a grand marble floor; and Story Lines offers a heavyweight take on the classic plaid.

Houses We Love: Every day we feature a remarkable space submitted by our community of architects, designers, builders, and homeowners. Have one to share? Post it here.

Project Details:

Location: Kamakura, Japan

Architect: Yuji Okitsu / @yujiokitsu

Footprint: 721 square feet

Builder: Deguchitateguten CO.,Ltd

Landscape Design: Art Base Garden Obaen

Photographer: Satoshi Nagare

Photographer: Yuji Okitsu

From the Architect: “This project transforms a 90-year-old house on the edge of a hillside in Kamakura, Japan, into an atelier. It is a new annex to the main house where the clients spend most of their time. They wanted a space to invite artists and culinary experts and enjoy creative time together or entertain their friends.

“The building is situated on a flat site in the middle of a steep cliff, characteristic of Kamakura, with just enough space for a single house. When we were first called to the site, the floors, walls, ceilings, and equipment of the house had all been removed, leaving only its framework, with its original layout unrecognizable. The old wooden pillars interspersed with the surrounding trees, and sunlight and the rock surface peeked through the spaces between them, creating a space that coincidentally blended architecture and the environment.

“In renovating the building, we did not paint the exposed parts of the repaired and reinforced framework to match the color of the existing and new wood. Out of respect for the building, which has stood the test of time despite being left unoccupied for many years, we wanted the house to symbolize the coexistence of old and new and its permanence. We tried to preserve the materials that sustained the building and pass them on to the next generation by repairing the existing window frames, which give a sense of the building’s identity, and reusing the foundation stones, which have supported the building for many years.

“We selected materials that would age well, such as yakisugi on the exterior walls and the brass door knobs. Solid chestnut wood flooring that had been used in the client’s previous home and stored away for many years was also incorporated, as were antique window frames that they already owned.

“In the new floor plan, the first floor mainly consists of the atelier, kitchen, and dining room. The location of the stairwell and the difference in ceiling height create a space without dead ends, allowing one to circulate freely. The floor-level low windows, called muso-mado (traditional Japanese windows fitted with panels with vertical slats that can be opened and closed for ventilation), were installed in the second floor room that opened to the first floor atelier. By opening and closing the panels, the atmosphere, sounds, and warm air from the wood stove are transmitted to the upstairs, making the whole building feel like a spacious, open-plan room.

“The concrete deck in the garden was designed to form a thin layer of water when it rains. While it rains, ripples spread across the rectangular deck, and the moving patterns created by nature are reflected upon the architecture. After the rain, it becomes a transient water basin, and the trees’ reflections and natural light reveal a fusion of landscape and architecture.

“In renovating the old house, we made sure to preserve the passage of time recorded in the land and architecture and pass it on to the future. We aimed to create a building that combines a sense of balance between old and new, integration with the landscape, and an affinity with the environment.”

Location: L’Escala, Spain

Price: €1,200,000 (approximately $1,382,460 USD)

Year Built: 2019

Architect: Bellafilarquitectes Studio

Footprint: 1,894 square feet (3 bedrooms, 2 baths)

From the Agent: “This unique, single-story villa is located in L’Escala, Spain, steps away from the beach and the renowned Roman-Greek ruins. Nestled on a quiet street, the property offers a tranquil setting close to the sea and essential services. Designed in 2019 by Bellafilarquitectes Studio, the villa combines modern comfort with high-quality finishes, making it ideal for year-round living.

“The structure consists of textured reinforced concrete walls, nearly seven feet high, which support a roof made up of semicircular vaults that cantilever over the southern facade. The roof features green vitrified tiles manufactured in La Bisbal d’Empordà. The design is inspired by the surrounding natural beauty and the historic charm of Empúries, with an emphasis on maximizing natural light throughout the day. The house offers views of the surrounding pine forest, while also ensuring the privacy of its occupants.

“The entry leads to an inviting hall that flows into the heart of the home. The main living area is an open-plan space, combining the living and dining areas with direct access to the patios and garden. The house also features an independent kitchen. The house includes three bedrooms. The primary bedroom features an en suite bathroom and built-in wardrobes, while the other two bedrooms share a bathroom. All bedrooms open directly onto the patio and garden.”

Orlando Denardi and Arthur Machado had two requirements when they were looking for a new apartment in São Paulo: to be closer to their friends, and to find a unit with dedicated outdoor space. “That was the dream,” Orlando says.

At the time, they lived in a far-flung area, so socializing meant taking a taxi or a lot of trains—and they craved a connection to the outdoors, although they knew it was a big ask in a dense city of high-rise buildings. “We are piled up, and getting more piled up as time goes by,” says Arthur.

Fortunately, one of the couple’s hobbies is scrolling real estate listings, so only six months passed before they found a penthouse apartment in the Pinheiros neighborhood. The building—which neighbors call the Cenourão, or “big carrot”—was originally designed by architect Ary de Queiroz Barros in the early ’80s, and the couple explain that it was noteworthy for its focus on duplex apartments. 

In traditional penthouses, says Arthur, the terrace is located off the upper level and separated from the main living spaces, which are usually on the lower level. “Then you have to put in another half bath and kitchen upstairs to entertain,” says Arthur. The Cenourão penthouse plan is flipped, with the terrace off the lower-level living room. “In this case, the configuration is like a home,” adds Orlando. “The social areas are downstairs, with the outdoors.”

However, the rest of the floor plan suffered from tight, compartmentalized rooms, some with triangular corners and diagonal walls. “I took a while to see the potential, because it was very segmented,” says Arthur—but Orlando, being an architect, knew exactly how to proceed.

Before: Entry and Living Room

After: Entry and Living Room 

Location: 2006 El Moran Street, Los Angeles, California

Price: $1,450,000

Year Built: 1921

Renovation Date: 2025

Renovation Architect: Oller & Pejic Architecture

Footprint: 949 square feet (1 bedroom, 1 bath)

Lot Size: 0.14 Acres

From the Agent: “A rare and transcendent piece of L.A. history, this restored cabin—Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument #839—was home to Paul Landacre, a celebrated modernist artist whose work was shaped by the surrounding landscape and is held in the collections of LACMA, MoMA, and the Whitney. An artful renovation by Oller & Pejic Architecture honors the home’s singular ethos, preserving single-wall construction and exposed beams while introducing masterful updates. Wood paneling and floors bring depth and warmth. Incredible light, exquisite views, and original details like petrels carved into the gables infuse the home with quiet elegance. The bedroom opens to a wraparound deck and the sunny bonus room could function as an office or second bedroom. Scenic decks and patios take in stunning vistas, and there’s a spa for winding down and a detached studio for art or work.”

Houses We Love: Every day we feature a remarkable space submitted by our community of architects, designers, builders, and homeowners. Have one to share? Post it here.

Project Details:

Location: Todos Santos, Mexico

Architect: PPAA / @perez_palacios_aa

Footprint: 3,800 square foot

Interiors: PPAA with Vipp and Julie Cloos Mølsgaard

Builder: Grupo Impulsa

Photographer: Anders Hviid / @andershviid

From the Architect: “The architecture of Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, is a captivating blend of historic charm and contemporary influences. The town, nestled between the Sierra de la Laguna mountains and the Pacific Ocean, boasts a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture. Wandering through the streets, one encounters preserved colonial buildings with vibrant facades that showcase a palette of earthy tones. Over time, Todos Santos has become a haven for artists and creatives, influencing the architectural landscape. Quaint art galleries, boutique hotels, and stylish cafes seamlessly integrate modern design elements while maintaining a respect for the town’s traditional aesthetic.

“This rammed-earth project began by considering the natural topography, aligning the architecture with contours and capturing views. A key strategy involves crafting a defined exterior space that’s integrated with the surroundings, acting as an anchor and shaping the overall design. This approach fosters a relationship between the built environment and landscape. The strategic placement of volumes responds directly to the landscape and ocean views.

“Extended walls optimize natural light and frame views. This design element is meant to enhance the ambiance, reinforcing a serene connection with the landscape. The circular rooftop swimming pool is placed to maximize panoramic ocean and sky views. The defined exterior space seamlessly transforms into a covered terrace, acting as the focal point for social encounters. A central fireplace adds to the ambiance while also serving as a support column.”