Modern Warmth

This contemporary wooden plank door, on a Bethesda home by Rill Architects, hits the sweet spot between modern and traditional. Choose these streamlined pieces to capture the vibe:

The Serralunga “Kabin” planter, at AllModern.com ($295).

The Salsbury Industries standard mailbox, at Mailboxes.com ($80).

“Petaluma” lanterns, at Crate & Barrel ($40-$129).
Updated Traditional

Photograph by Jim Darling Photography.
A splash of cool, crisp blue keeps this Alexandria Colonial by SBK Architecture and SLD Interiors from turning basic. Go for classic accents with a homey feel to get the look:

“Madera” lantern sconce, at Restoration Hardware ($189).

Architectural Mailboxes antique brass house numbers, at Lowe’s ($13).

Shine Company cedar barrel planters, at Wayfair.com ($197-set of four).
Mod Moment

Photograph by Ty Cole.
Architect Wakako Tokunaga introduced a mod burst of color at a client’s home in Silver Spring. Replicate the sunshiney sensibility with cheerful accessories:

“Papaja” plant pot, at Ikea ($1.99).

Richard Schultz “Fresh Air” chair, at AllModern.com ($732).

Raw-aluminum house numbers, at CB2 ($10).
This article appears in the September 2014 issue of Washingtonian.