This distinctive contemporary home had become a bit blurred and dated over the years—and it was facing serious damage from leaks that had developed in the exterior walls and windows. The exterior remodel provided a solid solution with quality materials and workmanship to restore and secure its unique architecture for the long run.

These homeowners knew it was vital to replace the deteriorating, coral-color stucco on their exterior—leaking from this and many windows was threatening their home’s structural integrity. We introduced them to a new type of stucco that stands up to the Washington-area climate. New roofing, siding, gutters and downspouts, and 70-some window replacements followed. The result: a watertight, safe, efficient home that will retain its luster far into the future.

Viewed from the street, the home’s clean lines and crisp design now speak for themselves through enduring materials such as flagstone, sleek stainless steel, a modern color palette of sophisticated neutrals, and the welcoming energy of strong red at the front door.

A wake-up call comes in the form of a new shower, with three modes: wall-mount, rain shower, and hand shower. A subtle gradation and smart showerhead placement ensure the toweling area doesn’t get wet.

The dividing wall by the vanity features a striking stone-and-tile arrangement that helps the design hit the sweet spot between blah and busy. The chiseled stone edge is sandwiched between tile layers of lagos azul, a high-quality limestone prized for its ability to harmonize with many types of natural stone.

Switch on the light, run the water, no problem—smart design ensures using the master bath won’t disturb anyone in the master bedroom or even in the open-plan closet.

A vertical tile layout and solid wenge wood vanity—as thick as butcher block and treated with natural oils to make it water-resistant—lend contemporary spirit to the powder room. The sink’s refreshing jolt of green glass enlivens the scene.

Glass doors to the dining room are frosted in a pattern of squares, repeated in the home decor. A two-level island directs flow and clearly maps out the cook’s territory: prep work on the lower level, bar and lounge up top.

A two-level island makes a handy place for guests to perch a glass or two as well as answering the eternal question: Where to put the microwave? (Right over the warming drawer.)

For a client who wanted a kitchen that literally shines, textured stainless surrounding windows and brushed aluminum laminate on the island really show their mettle.

For the bath used mostly by youngsters and guests, the homeowners wanted a feeling of fun and lightness that retained some sophistication. The solution? A tile color with plenty of pop, warm maple cabinetry, the creative twist of a big trapezoidal mirror, and overall clean design.