Challenge This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use. The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica. Solution To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included: Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1). It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions. The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space. Result All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks. Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard. The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.

Example of a mid-sized classic guest carpeted bedroom design with blue walls

Location: Denver, CO, USA THE CHALLENGE: Transform an outdated and compartmentalized 1950’s era home into an open, light filled, modern residence fit for a young and growing family. THE SOLUTION: Juxtaposition was the name of the game. Dark floors contrast light walls; small spaces are enlarged by clean layouts; soft textures balance hard surfaces. Balanced opposites create a composed, family friendly residence. Dado Interior Design David Lauer Photography

Inspiration for a contemporary powder room remodel in Tampa

Photo: Charles Davis Smith, AIA
Small urban backyard concrete paver patio photo in Dallas with a roof extension

Example of a mid-sized classic master carpeted bedroom design with blue walls

R. Brad Knipstein Photography
Trendy kitchen photo in San Francisco with a peninsula and matchstick tile backsplash

Bedroom - zen bedroom idea in Providence

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard landscaping in Minneapolis.

Back-to-back floating vanities complement the unique layout and abundance of windows in this lively master bathroom. Photo by Jared Kuzia.
Elegant master ceramic tile bathroom photo in Boston with beaded inset cabinets, blue cabinets, multicolored walls, an undermount sink and quartz countertops

Transitional kitchen photo in Minneapolis

Rosewood Linen Cabinet with floating shelves on Continuous Bench Photography By:Jeffrey E. Tryon
Example of a mid-sized trendy master beige tile and porcelain tile porcelain tile and beige floor walk-in shower design in Philadelphia with flat-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets, a one-piece toilet, white walls, an integrated sink, quartzite countertops and a hinged shower door

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional full sun front yard water fountain landscape in San Francisco.

Mid-sized elegant medium tone wood floor dining room photo with green backsplash

Photo: Angela Flournoy © 2017 Houzz
Inspiration for a cottage bedroom remodel in Oklahoma City

Holland Photography - Cory Holland
Family room - transitional family room idea in Seattle

Inspiration for an eclectic home design remodel in Charleston

Inspiration for a mid-sized light wood floor bedroom remodel in Hawaii with purple walls