The bioclimatic pergola is a one-of-a-kind, innovative pergola system that was designed to transform and expand outdoor living space in all types of weather conditions. With its aluminum louvers, the bioclimatic pergola allows you to instantly adjust to sunlight fluctuations and create ventilation in hot temperatures. It also provides protection from cold, rain, snow and wind, and it is also adaptable to any kind of architectural configuration.

Our clients requested an energy-efficient escape home on a 16-acre site in rural Elgin that would be maintenance friendly, age-in-place adaptable, and whose sculptural quality could harbor for their expressive family. With its dominant east-west axis, the maximizes control of solar gain control; its placement was carefully adjusted to allow all of the nearby trees to thrive. The standing seam roof’s pitch and azimuth provide optimal solar PV and fills a 20,000-gallon rainwater cistern. The age-in-place, step-less interior provides an expansive view at the south terrace. The cantilever of the board-formed foundation is a structurally expressive solution resolving an otherwise imposing mass. The curved prow of the north-pointing entry is a nod to local Elgin brick. A bowed and formally jubilant thermal chimney faces south for efficient passive ventilation. Photo credit: Chris Diaz General Contractor: Native (buildnative.com)

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: Award of Excellence PROJECT: McKeesport Downtown Housing CLIENT: ACTION-Housing, Inc. ARCHITECTURE FIRM: Thoughtful Balance ENGINEERS: Allstate Surveying and Mapping Co.; Conway Engineering; Iams Consulting, LLC CONTRACTORS: Repal Construction PHOTOGRAPHER: Denmarsh Photography; Nina Baird DESCRIPTION: McKeesport Downtown Housing, formerly a YMCA, is an 84-unit SRO for people at risk of homelessness. The old brick and terracotta building was important historically for McKeesport. The project was designed to Passive House criteria, the first of this scale to be designed to Passive House standards anywhere in the country. Although lighting, an elevator, air-conditioning, constant ventilation, and cooking equipment were added, the building now uses 68% less energy consumption than as it was originally built. JURY COMMENTS: Loving care and attention to detail are present everywhere in this very tight-budgeted solution. It is an excellent example of creating a sustainable option for those who might need it the most.

Long lead times and delays are a new normal. At European Kitchen Center, we adapt our business to new standards. We carefully planned this project to avoid extensive periods without cooking. With our help, the client could source and purchase all necessary products. The demolition started when we had cabinetry and all other parts in our possession. As a result, quick installation, pleased client, and a stunning kitchen. The client has opted for a two-tone finish; white lacquer and stunning wood veneer. It features handle-less cabinetry, contemporary design, and the latest in modern kitchen gadgets. PLEASE SEE THE BEFORE PICTUREBesides being aesthetically pleasing, we packed this kitchen with many mechanisms to improve its functionality, An amazing induction cooktop with a built-in downdraft, multi-functional workstation, LED task lighting. Please see the pictures.

Introducing "LA Biomoph," a groundbreaking and eco-sustainable architectural vision that reimagines the luxury homes of Los Angeles. Meticulously crafted to align with the region's climate, LA Biomoph embraces nature-inspired solutions, delivering a harmonious living experience while addressing environmental challenges. At the core of LA Biomoph is a profound dedication to energy efficiency. Smartly utilizing natural elements, the architecture optimizes energy consumption with advanced insulation, reflective roofing, and passive cooling strategies like cross-ventilation and natural shading. Renewable energy integration is key, utilizing solar coatings on cladding and glazing to harness the abundant Californian sunshine and significantly reduce the development's carbon footprint. Water conservation takes center stage with rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures, responsibly managing the region's scarce water resources. LA Biomoph's impact extends beyond the buildings themselves, as native and drought-resistant plantings support local ecosystems and reduce water demand for landscaping. With a focus on sustainable construction practices, the use of recycled and locally sourced materials minimizes environmental impact. Committed to sustainability, LA Biomoph emphasizes waste reduction and recycling during construction. Natural ventilation through operable windows complements the design, providing fresh air and mild weather cooling, thereby reducing the need for artificial cooling. With cool roofing materials that reflect sunlight, LA Biomoph ensures indoor comfort while mitigating the urban heat island effect. The architecture maximizes natural daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial lighting. LA Biomoph's adaptive design ensures longevity, accommodating evolving needs and future sustainable technologies. © 2023 by Esra Karagoz | All Rights Reserved.

Our clients requested an energy-efficient escape home on a 16-acre site in rural Elgin that would be maintenance friendly, age-in-place adaptable, and whose sculptural quality could harbor for their expressive family. With its dominant east-west axis, the maximizes control of solar gain control; its placement was carefully adjusted to allow all of the nearby trees to thrive. The standing seam roof’s pitch and azimuth provide optimal solar PV and fills a 20,000-gallon rainwater cistern. The age-in-place, step-less interior provides an expansive view at the south terrace. The cantilever of the board-formed foundation is a structurally expressive solution resolving an otherwise imposing mass. The curved prow of the north-pointing entry is a nod to local Elgin brick. A bowed and formally jubilant thermal chimney faces south for efficient passive ventilation. Photo credit: Chris Diaz General Contractor: Native (buildnative.com)

Our clients requested an energy-efficient escape home on a 16-acre site in rural Elgin that would be maintenance friendly, age-in-place adaptable, and whose sculptural quality could harbor for their expressive family. With its dominant east-west axis, the maximizes control of solar gain control; its placement was carefully adjusted to allow all of the nearby trees to thrive. The standing seam roof’s pitch and azimuth provide optimal solar PV and fills a 20,000-gallon rainwater cistern. The age-in-place, step-less interior provides an expansive view at the south terrace. The cantilever of the board-formed foundation is a structurally expressive solution resolving an otherwise imposing mass. The curved prow of the north-pointing entry is a nod to local Elgin brick. A bowed and formally jubilant thermal chimney faces south for efficient passive ventilation. Photo credit: Chris Diaz General Contractor: Native (buildnative.com)

Introducing "LA Biomoph," a groundbreaking and eco-sustainable architectural vision that reimagines the luxury homes of Los Angeles. Meticulously crafted to align with the region's climate, LA Biomoph embraces nature-inspired solutions, delivering a harmonious living experience while addressing environmental challenges. At the core of LA Biomoph is a profound dedication to energy efficiency. Smartly utilizing natural elements, the architecture optimizes energy consumption with advanced insulation, reflective roofing, and passive cooling strategies like cross-ventilation and natural shading. Renewable energy integration is key, utilizing solar coatings on cladding and glazing to harness the abundant Californian sunshine and significantly reduce the development's carbon footprint. Water conservation takes center stage with rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures, responsibly managing the region's scarce water resources. LA Biomoph's impact extends beyond the buildings themselves, as native and drought-resistant plantings support local ecosystems and reduce water demand for landscaping. With a focus on sustainable construction practices, the use of recycled and locally sourced materials minimizes environmental impact. Committed to sustainability, LA Biomoph emphasizes waste reduction and recycling during construction. Natural ventilation through operable windows complements the design, providing fresh air and mild weather cooling, thereby reducing the need for artificial cooling. With cool roofing materials that reflect sunlight, LA Biomoph ensures indoor comfort while mitigating the urban heat island effect. The architecture maximizes natural daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial lighting. LA Biomoph's adaptive design ensures longevity, accommodating evolving needs and future sustainable technologies. © 2023 by Esra Karagoz | All Rights Reserved.

Hive Modular
Eat-in kitchen - modern galley dark wood floor eat-in kitchen idea in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, green cabinets, concrete countertops, metallic backsplash, metal backsplash and stainless steel appliances

Hive Modular
Minimalist galley dark wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, concrete countertops, metallic backsplash, metal backsplash and stainless steel appliances

Our clients requested an energy-efficient escape home on a 16-acre site in rural Elgin that would be maintenance friendly, age-in-place adaptable, and whose sculptural quality could harbor for their expressive family. With its dominant east-west axis, the maximizes control of solar gain control; its placement was carefully adjusted to allow all of the nearby trees to thrive. The standing seam roof’s pitch and azimuth provide optimal solar PV and fills a 20,000-gallon rainwater cistern. The age-in-place, step-less interior provides an expansive view at the south terrace. The cantilever of the board-formed foundation is a structurally expressive solution resolving an otherwise imposing mass. The curved prow of the north-pointing entry is a nod to local Elgin brick. A bowed and formally jubilant thermal chimney faces south for efficient passive ventilation. Photo credit: Chris Diaz General Contractor: Native (buildnative.com)

Our clients requested an energy-efficient escape home on a 16-acre site in rural Elgin that would be maintenance friendly, age-in-place adaptable, and whose sculptural quality could harbor for their expressive family. With its dominant east-west axis, the maximizes control of solar gain control; its placement was carefully adjusted to allow all of the nearby trees to thrive. The standing seam roof’s pitch and azimuth provide optimal solar PV and fills a 20,000-gallon rainwater cistern. The age-in-place, step-less interior provides an expansive view at the south terrace. The cantilever of the board-formed foundation is a structurally expressive solution resolving an otherwise imposing mass. The curved prow of the north-pointing entry is a nod to local Elgin brick. A bowed and formally jubilant thermal chimney faces south for efficient passive ventilation. Photo credit: Chris Diaz General Contractor: Native (buildnative.com)

The Dana King Design Build Remodeling Team created this beautiful sunroom addition around an existing swim spa. An accessible and adaptable sunroom addition that has so many cool features like solar-powered ventilating skylights, vinyl film windows to let in lots of light, and a built-in swim spa with easy-access panels.

Home design - transitional home design idea in Chicago

Our clients requested an energy-efficient escape home on a 16-acre site in rural Elgin that would be maintenance friendly, age-in-place adaptable, and whose sculptural quality could harbor for their expressive family. With its dominant east-west axis, the maximizes control of solar gain control; its placement was carefully adjusted to allow all of the nearby trees to thrive. The standing seam roof’s pitch and azimuth provide optimal solar PV and fills a 20,000-gallon rainwater cistern. The age-in-place, step-less interior provides an expansive view at the south terrace. The cantilever of the board-formed foundation is a structurally expressive solution resolving an otherwise imposing mass. The curved prow of the north-pointing entry is a nod to local Elgin brick. A bowed and formally jubilant thermal chimney faces south for efficient passive ventilation. Photo credit: Chris Diaz General Contractor: Native (buildnative.com)

Custom under-sink cabinet + built-in dishwasher integrated structure, continuous countertop for easy food prep and cleaning worktop. Matching complete wall cabinet storage above, coordinated track ceiling lighting, sliding glass rear door connects outdoor yard, adapting Guam tropical residential ventilation & access habits.

This is not just an outdoor cover. This is a lifestyle upgrade built to impress, rain or shine. The Azenco R-BLADE™ is a fully adjustable louvered roof system engineered for precision, beauty, and year-round comfort. Each motorized louver rotates silently to give you control over light, ventilation, and protection with the touch of a button. Open up to the sunshine. Close tightly during rain. Stay cool under soft shade. The system even drains water internally through hidden gutters for a sleek, dry finish after a storm. Crafted from high-grade powder-coated aluminum, the R-BLADE™ resists corrosion, warping, and fading over time. Unlike traditional wooden pergolas or basic metal covers that weather poorly or require constant maintenance, this structure delivers long-lasting performance with a modern, seamless aesthetic. This featured installation blends a bright white frame with contrasting matte louvers; Perfectly suited for transitional homes that want to balance elegance with innovation. From family dinners to game-day gatherings, it creates a versatile outdoor room that feels like a natural extension of your home. Built smart. Styled strong. Loved year-round. Let’s help you design a space that adapts with the weather and your life. Book your outdoor living consultation today: 516-522-8249

Introducing "LA Biomoph," a groundbreaking and eco-sustainable architectural vision that reimagines the luxury homes of Los Angeles. Meticulously crafted to align with the region's climate, LA Biomoph embraces nature-inspired solutions, delivering a harmonious living experience while addressing environmental challenges. At the core of LA Biomoph is a profound dedication to energy efficiency. Smartly utilizing natural elements, the architecture optimizes energy consumption with advanced insulation, reflective roofing, and passive cooling strategies like cross-ventilation and natural shading. Renewable energy integration is key, utilizing solar coatings on cladding and glazing to harness the abundant Californian sunshine and significantly reduce the development's carbon footprint. Water conservation takes center stage with rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures, responsibly managing the region's scarce water resources. LA Biomoph's impact extends beyond the buildings themselves, as native and drought-resistant plantings support local ecosystems and reduce water demand for landscaping. With a focus on sustainable construction practices, the use of recycled and locally sourced materials minimizes environmental impact. Committed to sustainability, LA Biomoph emphasizes waste reduction and recycling during construction. Natural ventilation through operable windows complements the design, providing fresh air and mild weather cooling, thereby reducing the need for artificial cooling. With cool roofing materials that reflect sunlight, LA Biomoph ensures indoor comfort while mitigating the urban heat island effect. The architecture maximizes natural daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial lighting. LA Biomoph's adaptive design ensures longevity, accommodating evolving needs and future sustainable technologies.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: Award of Excellence PROJECT: Hazelwood Neighborhood Center CLIENT: ACTION-Housing, Inc. ARCHITECTURE FIRM: Thoughtful Balance ENGINEERS: Iams Consulting, LLC; WBCM Engineering CONTRACTORS: Nelcon Construction PHOTOGRAPHER: Denmarsh Photography DESCRIPTION: This building is in the heart of Hazelwood’s main commercial area and has a deep history with the community. The ground level houses office space for local non-profit groups and the upper floor is the new home of the Hazelwood branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. This project allowed the library to double the size of its space, providing a place to gather and come together. The renovation used the Passive House Retrofit Standard, focusing on a well-insulated building envelope with controlled ventilation, optimized passive solar heating, and energy efficiency. JURY COMMENTS: The project demonstrates the potential in creative planning by increasing the useable size of an existing building and reducing the environmental impact at the same time. Metrics matter and this building made a point of demonstrating what the metrics of its sustainable design yielded.