John’s sister Emily has been busy since our last post about helping her move into the new house she and her husband Todd designed. In just a month they’ve furnished, styled, and finished nearly every room, and they kindly let us share fresh after photos. Come along as we tour this modern, light-filled home.

The exterior presents clean lines, modern materials, and abundant windows. Built on a corner lot with green space on three sides, the design embraces the surrounding views. What looks like a single-level house from the curb actually spans three generous floors, taking advantage of a steep incline: you enter on the street-level living floor, while the lower level opens through sliding glass doors into the backyard at the base of the hill—smart, functional, and visually interesting.

Step inside and you’re greeted by an open-plan space where living, dining, and kitchen areas flow together. Crisp white walls, warm wood tones, and polished stainless steel lighting create a bright, contemporary canvas that feels both sleek and welcoming. Large windows bring in daylight and reinforce the home’s emphasis on clean, modern lines.

The kitchen blends high-end and budget-friendly elements to great effect. Sleek glass-front appliances sit alongside a simple, practical Ikea island illuminated by a statement Restoration Hardware pendant. The mix of finishes and price points feels deliberate and balanced, creating a kitchen that’s both stylish and functional for everyday family life.

One clever detail is an Ikea pull-out pantry that the builder integrated into the layout. Accessible from both sides, it’s perfect for snack-happy kids and keeps everyday items organized and out of sight. These practical storage solutions are a smart approach to maximizing space in a modern family kitchen.

The master suite occupies the top floor and includes an ensuite with both a soaking tub and a separate shower. A standout feature is the sliding barn door mounted on a stainless steel track—an elegant, space-saving solution that adds privacy and a touch of industrial-chic style. It’s a small architectural detail that makes a big visual impact.

Instead of traditional built-in closets, Emily and Todd opted for freestanding Ikea wardrobes integrated into the bedroom layout. The contemporary freestanding units create a clean, modular look and made it easy to configure storage exactly where they wanted it. They applied the same strategy to the kids’ bedrooms, choosing movable armoires that keep the rooms flexible as needs change.

The children’s rooms are still evolving, with plans for DIY projects like upholstered headboards coming soon. These personal touches will add warmth and creativity to the modern shell and are a great reminder that a home grows and changes over time.

The guest bedroom showcases a layered, collected look: Target bedding, a few West Elm pillows, an Ikea lamp, and a thrift-store chair create an inviting, lived-in space. It’s a good example of how combining affordable finds with a few higher-end accents yields a comfortable, stylish room without breaking the budget.

Overall, the home balances modern architecture with practical, family-friendly details: abundant natural light, smart storage solutions, versatile bedrooms, and thoughtful finishes. Small choices—like the pull-out pantry and the barn-style bathroom door—elevate everyday living and demonstrate how design can be both beautiful and functional. If you have a modern space of your own or ideas to share, feel free to send them our way. Until next time.