This whole house transformation started with an unfinished basement, new kitchen and living room, entry, and master suite and bath. The existing house sits on a hill overlooking a wooded view in a first-ring suburb. The large living room windows frame the trees and bring in a beautiful, filtered light throughout the day. The new design connects to this natural surrounding by echoing the natural materials that are available through the views. The fireplace has a black granite that is random in width, length, and thicknesses, which gives a sense of a natural stone wall with the refinement of finishes and textures of contemporary design.