Posts from the ‘Southwest Hills’ Category

Nov 29

Inspired by the Story: An Interview with Anne De Wolf and the Kitzis-Strasfeld Family

“Designed by Portland’s most renowned architect, A.E. Doyle, this home creates a harmonious marriage of the grand and majestic spaces found in palatial mansions with the warmth and ease of lifestyle prevalent in the Craftsman cottage.” – Dan Volkmer

Moving from their beloved Victorian home in Goose Hollow, Lynne, Alex and their two children, Margot and Anderson, have lived in their current home for over 3 years now. After being referred by Dan Volkmer to Anne De Wolf as a talented designer who specializes in historic remodels, they began a whole-house remodel with Arciform.

“What we liked most about Anne was she knew her stuff when it came to historic home restoration, but she also had a funky flair about her designs,” says Alex as I step into the gorgeous home built in 1909 by local architect A.E. Doyle. Doyle also designed the Multnomah County Central Library, the Meier & Frank Building and the famous Benson Bubblers!

I notice wallpapers that are a clear trademark of Anne’s style and relish in the light, fun and sophisticated feel the Kitzis-Strasfeld home emanates.

This striking L’Oiseau Moderne wallpaper epitomizes the most exuberant Deco style that was popular between 1925-1930. “When done right, historic preservation is never boring,” says Anne.

Lynne Strasfeld and Alex Kitzis are doctors. They’re used to chaos and high stress situations. I keep this in mind when they tell me they chose to live in the home throughout the remodel.

“Living in the home during construction allowed us to be a part of the process, and we were able to make on-the-fly decisions and adjustments to the remodel plan,” Lynne tells me.

“Things like adding a counter below the microwave in the kitchen and replacing the mudroom were decided in-the-moment,” says Alex.

The original mudroom was rebuilt as part of the addition with, tile flooring and walls and built-ins. “The home has many small efficient spaces coupled with large public rooms,” says Anne

“And best of all, Jamie and Adam [Arciform’s lead carpenter and project manager on the project] were always respectful of our space; in the end they became like family,” Lynne says

Two weeks ago I was here getting photos of the home for both Arciform and interior designer Jenna Sheingold. During the photoshoot I played ping-pong in the fully finished basement with 9-year-old son Anderson – he shamelessly beat me five times in a row.

12-year-old Margot showed me her beautiful bedroom. I notice the light sea green ceiling (painted in Benjamin Moore’s Neon Celery) and the attached bathroom with beautiful details like classic white hexagonal tiles with black accents on the floor, the Carrara marble shower threshold and pretty wall-mounted sink by Duravit. The walls have been painted in Ice Blue by Benjamin Moore.

“I like how light and bright my room is,” says Margot.

Today I’m at the home with the Lynne, Alex, Anne, photographer Christopher Dibble and their cheerful golden retriever, Sadie. We’re getting a few more photos, and I’m learning more about the remodel. Anne brought pastries from Ken’s Artisan Bakery and we sit down to enjoy them in the garden room and chat more about the home.

What I love most about these interviews is hearing Anne talk about historical architecture. First of all, she has a charming German accent. Second, she knows her stuff and is passionate about design.

The remodel included expanding along one wall of the kitchen by three feet, removing a wall from the dining area to the living area, adding a new family room and bathroom to the basement and restoring historical details such as the oak hardwood flooring, large, west-facing windows and the pass-through butler’s pantry, among other things.

“The Kitzis-Strasfelds loved their previous home as well. They moved from an old Victorian just ½ mile from their new house. They were especially fond of their former kitchen with its cozy nook, so we took those elements and carried them into their new home. We expanded the kitchen, added wainscoting and banquette seating to the existing nook and used the same paint color—Gaelic Garden by Columbia Paints,” says Anne.

The existing kitchen with butler’s pantry has been updated to modern standards while respecting the vintage of the home

As we exit the house through the cheery red front door, Lynne tells me, “we had many happy hours sitting in our old kitchen, and now we feel the same about our new kitchen.”

This house is on the Ainsworth Holiday Home Tour which happens this Thursday, 11/30! Be sure to check it out.

Written by Snow Blackwood

Photo Gallery (photos by Christopher Dibble):

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Apr 13

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Postcards from the Field: April

This morning we thought we’d take you on a quick virtual tour of some of the projects we are currently working on here at Arciform…

Here are a few of the projects underway…

This mudroom in Lake Oswego is getting a very cool tile treatment….

A gas pass-thru fireplace in SE Portland is being installed in a mid-century whole house remodel…

Some views are being re-framed at a different mid-century addition project….

… with the help of a VERY large crane.

A porch is coming together out in Beaverton…

… while some very groovy tile is being set for a mid-century bathroom in Hillsdale.

Bike racks and lockers are going to add some cool kid style to a basement renovation in NW Portland…

….while this elegant custom radiator cabinet is being prepped for install up in the SW Hills.

Coming soon to Arciform… a historic Portland church gets a bell tower restoration, a Corvallis National Register property gets a new kitchen and the roof gets raised on a collection of dormer addition master suites all over Portland.

So… what are YOU working on?

Explore the Arciform Project Galleries | About Arciform | Schedule a Design Consultation

Oct 3

Client’s Eye View: Donna and Bill’s Compact and Classic Kitchen

Reversing the damage of a poorly considered ’80s remodel and packing a compact kitchen with storage without making the space feel cluttered were two important goals of this recently completed Arciform kitchen remodel. But don’t take our word for it. We recently interviewed the homeowners to get a “client’s eye view” of their kitchen renovation experience.

What were your goals for this renovation?

We had several goals. All were equally important to us. We badly needed an update of the large appliances. There were electrical needs. We had only 3 outlets and two overhead lights – one over the sink and one in the center of the room. The room looked like Macy’s kitchen department. With no storage for small appliances, the counter space was used for the toaster, the mixer, and so on. My spices were stored in 3 different places. We needed more counter space. The house was built in 1916, so we wanted the design to reflect the look of the rest of the house.

Here’s a peek at the kitchen before the remodel.

What were your concerns going into the remodeling process?

We chose Arciform after some thoughtful research. We hoped Arciform COULD DELIVER. We loved their ideas and their willingness to partner with us to make the kitchen happen. They did deliver.

What did you learn during the process?

The design is the key. Arciform worked with us to design every inch of the project. We revisited the design over and over. Arciform made what WE wanted and needed an essential part of the design process. As the design evolved, we learned about materials, costs and even construction.

What are your favorite elements of the completed kitchen and why?

I LOVE how it reflects the period in which the house was built. This makes it a better house.

The lighting is great! I can see when I cook. I have counter lighting as well as 4 ceiling lights.

Using small appliances isn’t a task anymore. There are outlets everywhere.

My spices are all in one drawer and easy to see.

Because I have an appliance barn, the Macy kitchen department look is gone, and I have lots more counter space.

The large appliances are “state of the art.” They are more efficient, more quiet, more dependable and really fun to use.

Tell us about your experience of working with Arciform.

Our working relationship with Arciform was great. From the estimate to the finished job, there were no surprises. I think their strong suit is communication. They stayed in touch by text and email, informing us of even small changes in the schedule. All the personnel are excellent people – smart, thoughtful and skilled. The workers all cleaned up after themselves.

It was a pleasure to help Donna & Bill get the kitchen they’ve always wanted. How can we help you meet your goals for your home? Get more details about our process and schedule a design consultation here.

Looking for more design inspiration for your kitchen? Join us for our Kitchens that Work Design Workshop on May 18th. Get the details and RSVP here by May 15th to attend FREE.

Explore the Arciform Project Galleries | About Arciform | Schedule a Design Consultation

Mar 7

5 Tips to Add More Comfort and Joy to your Bathroom

Sometimes you don’t know how much better your morning can be until you have added a few of these subtle but essential creature comforts to your bathroom. Here’s our Top 5 update recommendations improve the comfort of your bathroom and bring more joy to your daily routine.

5. Dual Shower Heads

The master bath of this 1922 Colonial Revival home was renovated and expanded by Arciform. Designed by Anne De Wolf. Photo by Photo Art Portraits.

Whether your morning routine is too tight to allow for sequential showering or you just think that most things are better when done together, a shower alcove with room for both partners to shower at the same time can add enjoyment AND efficiency to your morning.

4. A Soaking Tub

This bathroom renovation by Arciform in a 1909 Queen Anne in the Forest Park neighborhood focused on highlighting the original architecture with a few luxurious amenities. Designed by Anne De Wolf. Photo by Photo Art Portraits.

The joys of a full sized tub you can really immerse yourself in cannot be overstated.

One expert tip: Consider the view. A tub designed for a long soak should have something beautiful to rest your eyes on while you relax. Whether its a beautiful window flooding the room with natural light or simply your favorite work of art hung right at eye level, the right view will create a space that invites reflection and encourages you to linger.

When you are done, an elegant handset will allow you to rinse off without the shock of of a full shower.

3. Foot-Friendly Flooring

This mid-century home in the SW Hills was a big change for the Arciform clients who had formerly owned a Tudor home. The bathroom update focused on clean lines and comfort amenities that both members of the couple could enjoy. Designed by Anne De Wolf. Photo by Arciform.

If you are planning to pull up the flooring anyway, consider tucking in electric radiant heat.

Having your bare toes meet warm tile will make the whole process of getting ready a pleasure. Plus, the whole bathroom will stay warmer.

Detail view of the bathroom flooring of our mid-century client. Designed by Anne De Wolf. Photo by Arciform.

This mid-century bathroom update added radiant floor heat beneath the large format tile in the main bath area and a pebbled surface to the shower alcove to gently massage feet in the shower. As a bonus, the pebbled surface resists slipping: always an important bathroom consideration.

2. Heated Bathroom Accessories

This bathroom renovation also incorporated a powder room for guests adjacent to the main bath. Designed by Anne De Wolf. Photo by Photo Art Portraits.

A towel warmer like the one at left ensures that getting out of the shower is as relaxing as getting in. And while you are at it, how about a heated toilet seat? Or a heated mirror that won’t fog up during your shower?

1. Why Not Add a Washlet?

The couple who has retired to a Pearl District loft asked Arciform to install several cool technology features, including a “washlet” on their toilet with a wall mounted control. Designed by Kristyn Bester. Photo by Photo Art Portraits.

Most older homes do not have room to accommodate both a toilet and a bidet… but any home can consider adding a “washlet.” This ingenious piece of technology installs like a regular toilet seat but functions like a bidet to provide warm water to your most sensitive places just when you need it. How supremely civilized!

What comfort amenities are you considering adding to your bathroom? Join us February 18th for a Master Suite Design Workshop to get inspired for your next project. Details and RSVP here.

Explore the Arciform Photo Galleries | About Arciform | Schedule a Design Consultation

Apr 18

Celebrating Saul Zaik

(This kitchen was restored by Arciform for the owners of the Feldman House, a home built by architect Saul Zaik in the ’50s that is considered a quintessential example of the Northwest Regional Modernism style.)

One of the pleasures (and challenges) of working in older homes as we often do, is the weight of history that can hang over each renovation and restoration choice we make with our clients.

Each space has its own distinct personality, and sometimes that personality shines straight through from the original builder’s intent. Other times, the space has been papered over with updates that mask the original style and purpose of the home. In every case, we must strike a balance between:

1. Recognizing that a home is a living building that must first and foremost serve the needs of the family living in it.

2. Respecting the fact that a home also has a unique history and perspective that adds to its value and should be preserved whenever possible.

Sometimes you get lucky and have the opportunity to work on a home whose architect’s purpose and design goals are so clear, thoughtful, practical and beautiful that 60 years later the home still feels fresh and new.

(Here is an image from of the Feldman House kitchen before the renovation. )

(Here’s a similar view after the restoration was completed. Like many of our projects, our goal here was to integrate needed updates as subtly as possible into the existing space. If you can’t tell where the original elements end and the new things begin, we have done our work well!)

Saul Zaik, a Portland architect responsible for many iconic houses in the style that has come to be called “Northwest Regional Modernism,” creates homes that are full of personality distinctive style and yet prioritize the comfort of the people who inhabit them and the landscapes on which they are sited.

Portland Monthly explains:

Mid-century modernism is a popular style, often seen as retro, a look back or a revival of something that started more than half a century ago. But in some ways, here in Portland, there’s nothing retro about it. Northwest Regional Modernism is simply a vibrant approach to architecture and design. It thrives, continues to evolve, and is aging gracefully.

(This image, of Saul Zaik’s personal residence, perfectly illustrates that combination of human scale and connection to the NW environment that was a hallmark of his work.)

Brian Libby, a passionate Portland architecture advocate, shares this insight into Saul Zaik’s take on Northwest Regional Modernism on the blog PortlandModern:

Asked if he thinks northwest regional is a valid style, Zaik’s response comes without hesitation.

“It is absolutely valid,” he says. “It is site-oriented in terms of sun and weather. It respects the vegetation of the site. Our attitude was that the best thing you can do is something nobody can see as they drive down the street. Well, I shouldn’t say that. Maybe it is better to say that it is something discreet. I think it has to do with a northwest lifestyle. Our clients were outdoor people, who appreciated the landscape and wanted to be connected to it and to preserve it.”

In addition to many distinctive Portland residences, Zaik was deeply influential in the design of some of Oregon’s iconic resort locations, including Sunriver, Salishan, Timberline Lodge (for their 1960’s addition) and the adaptive restoration of the Crater Lake Lodge grounds. Chances are, if you have vacationed in Oregon, you’re experience has been enhanced by his unique sense of place.

About the Feldman House

One of Zaik’s first houses to come out of this period, the circa-1956 Feldman House, is one of his most celebrated and one he still recalls fondly. Built for Philip Feldman, heir to Mt. Hood Borax Company, the structure has a cantilevered, low-pitched gable roof and vertical tongue-and-groove cedar siding. Its broad overhanging eaves express the sheltering element that Zaik brought with him from his University of Oregon studies and which he considered fundamental to the style.

“It is extremely modern in using very flush surfaces and wide panes of glass,” notes architect Don Rouzie, one of Zaik’s longtime collaborators. “It is very simple. It doesn’t jump out at you as being this terrific thing. But you get in there, and it’s just awesome. You realize what northwest regional means.” The house was honored by the Oregon chapter of the American Institute of Architects and was featured in an issue of Pacific Architect magazine. It was also was featured on the 2008 Street of Eames Homes Tour and garnered much praise as a crowd favorite.

We deeply enjoyed participating in the preservation of this iconic Portland residence and we are delighted to join with the Historic Preservation League of Oregon to celebrate Saul Zaik on their upcoming Mid-Century Marvelous Tour of several key Zaik residences on May 11th.

Unfortunately the Feldman House is undergoing some additional restoration and will not be available for viewing on the tour, but there are several other Zaik houses (including his own personal residence) that will be showcased.

We encourage you to check out the tour, which is a fundraiser for the important preservation work being carried forward by the Historic Preservation League of Oregon.

ABOUT THE MID-CENTURY MODERN SAUL ZAIK HOUSE TOUR

When: May 11th 10 am to 4 pm

Cost: $40 per person ($30 for HPLO members)

Buy Tickets Here.

Details from the Historic Preservation League of Oregon:

Take advantage of a unique opportunity to visit six outstanding Northwest Regional Modern homes designed by Saul Zaik.

Tour goers will appreciate the beauty of these houses and how they take full advantage of their wooded locations. They are all recommended by Saul himself and include his own home.

Check in at the Portland First United Methodist Church in Goose Hollow (1838 SW Jefferson) where, at 1pm, we will also present a lecture on Saul’s work and the Northwest Regional style.

This will be a driving tour. The homes are in Portland’s west hills and there are some steep driveways and walkways.

After the tour there will be a “Snappy Hour” ’60s themed costume party and cocktail hour, where tour goers will have an opportunity to meet Zaik and ask questions about the homes on the tour.

We hope you will join us in celebrating this true icon of Northwest architectural style.

Explore the Arciform Photo Galleries | All About Arciform | Schedule a Design Consultation

Mar 11

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What Should Go on This Wall?

At this weekend’s Tour of Remodeled Homes, we asked attendees for a little help deciding what to put on the right hand wall in this picture (where the cow skulls currently are).

We received some truly creative suggestions! Here’s a few:

A couple of people suggested that we consider a painting by Russian abstract painter Wassily Kandinsky.

Others liked the idea of a tapestry or wall hanging that incorporated the textures and colors of the living room:

Or a vintage kimono:

Some great mid-century suggestions included a George Nelson “Ball Clock“

or perhaps a sunburst mirror?

“How about a map of Fiji?” suggested one attendee:

or a picture of a guinea pig?

or some sandstone cave art?

Others envisioned conceptual art, from a fused glass piece by Roger Thomas to a large scale lava lamp or water feature.

Here’s a Roger Thomas piece that could work…

Or this water fountain wall sculpture...

And some wanted to honor the view and our home state by suggesting this:

or this:

MORE WINDOWS!!!

A witty observer suggested a photograph of a mountain that looked a bit like Mt. Hood but wasn’t:

maybe Mt. Blanc?

Which suggestion do you think works best? Lend us your votes in the comments below and maybe you will sway our choice. Our favorite suggestion will win a custom-made cutting board from Arciform along with a collection of salumi from our friends at Olympic Provisions. So think deeply and let us know which selection you prefer!

Mar 5

Behind the Scenes at our Mid-Century Marvel Shoot

Getting a home ready to be photographed after the renovation is complete is an art form all its own. We recently had the pleasure of working with stylist Shannon Quimby and photographer Shannon Butler (of Photo Art Portraits), who helped one of our favorite mid-century modern projects put its best foot forward in preparation for the upcoming Tour of Remodeled Homes March 9th and 10th.

Here’s a photo diary of the shoot. You can check out the completed images on Houzz here.

Shannon Quimby, our stager/sylist, loads in all the little treasures she has found that will add pops of color and vintage flair for today’s shoot. Shannon has been in hot demand to create interior environments at several of Portland’s newest restaurants, including the recent expansion of Lardo in downtown Portland.

Arciform owner and senior designer Anne De Wolf plays with one of the pieces Shannon sourced. This giant wire poppy sculpture was brought in to accent the WC.

Tools of the trade come in unusual shapes when you are a photo stylist. In this case, Shannon brought in her toolbag… and a pair of cow skulls she sourced from an Oregon farm. The skulls looked great in the living room… but they were already promised to another client so our clients didn’t get to keep them after the shoot.

A beautiful reproduction ceramic lamp and a collection of orange and green resin and glass vases and bowls added color to the shoot. Our clients loved what Shannon provided so much that they purchased most of it! It was like a shopping trip where the store comes to you, arranges your home, and all you have to do is write the check. (Shannon says this happens to her all the time.)

This authentic mid-century clock from one of Shannon’s vintage sources was the big hit of the day.

Shannon Butler of Photo Art Portraits has worked with us for years. It was fun to watch the two Shannons collaborate!

Here, the two Shannons are looking for a way to keep the vanity door pinned tightly shut for the bathroom shoot.

Sometimes a stager’s job includes ducking just out-of-frame to adjust the smallest details of the photo elements between takes…

Here are some of the results of their excellent work (above and below).
You can check out the full gallery of images on Houzz here.

Join us for the Tour of Remodeled Homes, March 9th and 10th to check out the views of this beautiful home for yourself. Tickets are available here. We look forward to seeing you then!

Explore the Arciform Photo Galleries | All About Arciform

Jan 18

Mid-Century Mahogany

Sometimes you uncover amazing materials in a home restoration… materials that demand to not only be lovingly restored, but honored with new design elements that tie the new and the old into a cohesive whole. That’s what happened when we discovered gorgeous mahogany trims throughout this mid-century modern beauty (that had suffered through some terrible ’70s updates).

We restored the mahogany details and in the end they inspired a solution to a tricky design problem: How to maximize the visible light and extraordinary views of the great room and kitchen while still providing a focal point that created natural transition between one living space and the next. Our solution? create a brand-new cantilevered mahogany counter that is simultaneously richly luxurious, solid and built to last, but with a profile that feels lighter than air.

You are cordially invited to tour this mid-century beauty this March- it will be featured on the Tour of Remodeled Homes, March 9th and 10th, 2013. We look forward to having you join us!

Explore the Arciform Photo Galleries | All About Arciform

Posts from the ‘Southwest Hills’ Category

Inspired by the Story: An Interview with Anne De Wolf and the Kitzis-Strasfeld Family

Written by Snow Blackwood

Postcards from the Field: April

Client’s Eye View: Donna and Bill’s Compact and Classic Kitchen

5 Tips to Add More Comfort and Joy to your Bathroom

Celebrating Saul Zaik

What Should Go on This Wall?

Behind the Scenes at our Mid-Century Marvel Shoot

Mid-Century Mahogany

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