Walls

Tailored to emphasize the surrounding views, this open floor plan executed in durable materials is sheltered by insulating concrete walls by Martin McBirney

A steel skin, exposed framing, and a central atrium distinguish this industrial-strength version of a classic dog-run house by Bede Van Dyke

Built-in columns do the work of walls without shutting out light and views by Laurie Erickson, Chet Zebroski

A Seattle home expands with a stylish in-law apartment that's environmentally sound and pays for itself over time by George Ostrow

A growing family turns a dramatic 19th-century townhouse into a contemporary home filled with natural light by Jessica Keener

A luxurious bathroom's character is borne by innovative technology and recycled materials by Kristian Kicinski

Hide the new carrying beam in the ceiling, and they'll forget that wall ever existed by John Michael Davis

In Wyoming, an updated version of an old farmhouse adds up to an affordable home for a young family by Paul Duncker

From undersize nails to overloaded trusses, here's a look at what builders get wrong when they wing it without an engineer by David Utterback

With one-third of the exterior given over to windows, it took multiple shear panels, hold-downs and a wind beam to keep this home steady by Glenn M. Carter

Fewer walls, a bigger bathroom and lots of light turn a confining second floor into a spacious master suite by Jon Anderson

Keeping water moving out and down is the key to effective sidewall flashing by Scott McBride