To give a mountain home’s porch a dose of big-city style, designer Brian Patrick Flynn created a monochromatic backdrop of rich charcoal gray, using the color on everything from the porch structure itself, to the stone-faced fireplace, to the wicker sofas. Then, he added drama with bold hits of color: sapphire velvet upholstery and emerald pillows. Last, a Midcentury-inspired chandelier in a rich brass finish lends a shining accent overhead.

Inspired by the setting of this barnlike modern home nestled on a hilltop amongst many acres of undeveloped woods, architect Matthew Moger of Moger Mehrhof Architects used natural stone and wood to give the space a grounded, but luxurious look. The sliding mirror and trough-like sink nod to the home' s location in rural, Pennsylvania farm country.

When a room—any room—has glass as expansive and views as spectacular as the ones this master bedroom enjoys, a designer’s main task is often to keep the focus where it should be: outside. Here, designer Kathe Baker of Feathering the Nest chose a subdued neutral palette to create an atmosphere of quiet elegance. Layers of soft texture add luxury.

In a large, open-plan space like this one, it’s essential to create a sense of connection between spaces, while allowing each one to function separately. The designers at Kitchen Choreography in Traverse City, Michigan addressed the former issue—connection—by installing wenge-look ceramic tile across the entire span of floor, creating visual flow throughout the room. The L of custom cabinetry along two walls frames the kitchen area, differentiating it from the dining area and two styles of lighting lighting help each space maintain its own character.