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We are thrilled to present one of our recent major renovation projects, an exquisite transformation of an old townhouse/terrace house located in the scenic Sydney Northern Beaches. This project is a testament to our commitment to delivering excellence and luxurious details in every aspect of our architectural design and building services.
With a passion for preserving the historical charm of the old townhouse, while infusing it with modern elegance and sophistication, our team of skilled architects and builders worked vigorously to bring this vision to life. We understand the importance of maintaining the unique character of heritage buildings, and this project showcases our expertise in seamlessly blending the old with the new.
Our collaboration with Strata was instrumental in obtaining the necessary approvals and ensuring compliance with the strata bylaws. Additionally, we worked closely with the City of North Sydney Council to secure their approval for the renovation, ensuring that every aspect of the project adhered to the highest standards of quality and safety.
These photos belong to the house, before the renovation
The result is a stunning transformation that not only enhances the architectural beauty of the townhouse but also offers a luxurious and modern living space. Our meticulous attention to detail is evident in every element of the design, from the exquisite finishes to the carefully curated materials.

This bathroom was created for homeowners who found us online and reached out after seeing our work, trusting us to bring their vision to life. From the start, we worked together seamlessly, listening closely to what they wanted and guiding them through every step of the process. The result is a calm, spa-like space with a large walk-in shower, warm stone-look tile, a built-in bench, and sleek matte black fixtures that feel modern yet timeless. Soft LED lighting highlights the tile and adds a relaxing glow, while the double vanity with custom cabinetry and backlit mirrors keeps the room bright, functional, and uncluttered. Natural stone floors add warmth and flow throughout the space. This project is a perfect example of how collaboration, clear communication, and attention to detail can turn a homeowner’s vision into a beautiful, well-crafted bathroom they’ll enjoy every day—and the same level of care we bring to every client who finds us and trusts us with their home.

The one-story contemporary overlooking a lake and bird sanctuary was a retirement dream - open spaces, expansive views and plenty of room to host grandchildren. While the location was ideal, the home needed help - especially the kitchen as it was dark and confining. Walls were removed and doorways expanded to ensure the kitchen would be the center of activity. The dining table was placed in front of the window and a skylight added bringing in sunlight. We offered our clients practical solutions for storage and space planning. Specific items needed to be accessible and handy to suit their lifestyle. Based on their valued input, we added tall pull-out pantry units and cabinets with “hidden” drawers. Storage was strategically positioned for easy drop off and pick up as our clients came and went. Dark-stained cherry cabinets and light quartz countertops provided the sharp contemporary contrast favored by our homeowners. After much collaboration, discussion, and careful planning, they are enjoying their remodeled home and kitchen where we know they will create lasting memories in their lakeside retirement retreat.
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Project Description: Warm Modern Kitchen + Bath Refresh
This kitchen remodel blends warm, rich materials with durable, modern functionality. We elevated the space with custom cherry wood cabinetry, bringing timeless elegance and a sense of craftsmanship to the heart of the home. The countertops and full-height backsplash feature Mystere Gold Quartz from ARC Surfaces—a creamy, ivory-toned quartz with subtle gold veining. This material is not only visually striking but also non-porous, stain-resistant, and low maintenance—ideal for everyday use.
Fixtures include a Kohler Vibrant Stainless kitchen faucet, Kohler undermount single-bowl sink, and flat black cabinet hardware, all sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring in collaboration with KellyJo. The hardwood flooring throughout was carefully sanded, refinished, and stained using a custom mix from DuraSeal, adding depth and warmth to every step.
For the bathroom, we kept the updates minimal yet impactful: we installed a new vanity top using the same quartz, Moen Doux brushed nickel faucets, and Kohler Caxton undermount sinks—all also sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring. The continuity in materials ties the spaces together and maintains a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
Design & Build:
Veron Builders LLC + Boulder Design Group
Vendors & Materials:
Cabinetry: Custom Cherry
Countertops/Backsplash: Mystere Gold Quartz – ARC Surfaces
Kitchen Fixtures: Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Bathroom Fixtures: Moen + Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Hardwood Floors: Refinished & custom-stained – DuraSeal
This project is a beautiful example of how selective upgrades and premium materials can completely transform the look and feel of a home while maintaining warmth, function, and personal style.

Built on a steep lakeside terrain, the Tsuga residence by Appareil Architecture is an ambitious project that required meticulous planning and flawless execution. Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Brownsburg-Chatham, Tsuga elevates a complex site to offer a seamless immersion in nature. Balancing the site’s constraints with a high level of finish, every phase of the project was designed to reconcile technical challenges with precision. Modulor expertly managed all collaborators, ensuring a level of detail that defines a project of this scale.
On the exterior, the building envelope combines durability with refinement. Carefully selected natural wood cladding interacts with a perforated screen that filters light and adds depth to the façade. The integration of openings was strategically planned to maximize views while maintaining a cohesive architectural expression.
Inside, the materials and finishes reflect the same commitment to quality. Wooden paneling wraps the spaces, creating visual continuity and a warm atmosphere. The stainless steel kitchen, with its clean lines and custom design, introduces a striking contrast between modernity and natural textures. Every junction, every material transition was meticulously crafted to ensure a flawless result, with no compromises on durability or functionality.
Designed for an architectural historian and a musician and opera singer, Tsuga is the result of meticulous craftsmanship. A home built to stand the test of time, with an unwavering attention to detail.

This bathroom was created for homeowners who found us online and reached out after seeing our work, trusting us to bring their vision to life. From the start, we worked together seamlessly, listening closely to what they wanted and guiding them through every step of the process. The result is a calm, spa-like space with a large walk-in shower, warm stone-look tile, a built-in bench, and sleek matte black fixtures that feel modern yet timeless. Soft LED lighting highlights the tile and adds a relaxing glow, while the double vanity with custom cabinetry and backlit mirrors keeps the room bright, functional, and uncluttered. Natural stone floors add warmth and flow throughout the space. This project is a perfect example of how collaboration, clear communication, and attention to detail can turn a homeowner’s vision into a beautiful, well-crafted bathroom they’ll enjoy every day—and the same level of care we bring to every client who finds us and trusts us with their home.

The 7500 square foot home was completely renovated and furnished with museum quality mid century furniture from key designers Adrienne Pearsall, Hans Wegner, Edward Wormley for Dunbar, and Paul Evans. Being true to the integrity of the architecture all care was taken to balance the young families’ traditional taste with mid century design. In the end, all expectations were met in this gratifying, collaborative effort.

Warm Transitional Kitchen with White Oak Cabinetry
Designed remotely for a home in Minnesota, this kitchen blends timeless warmth with clean transitional detailing to create a bright and welcoming gathering space. Natural white oak cabinetry anchors the design with subtle texture and organic warmth, while crisp white surfaces and tailored architectural details keep the space feeling fresh, refined, and modern.
The kitchen was thoughtfully designed around functionality and family living, featuring a large central island with abundant seating, generous storage, and expansive prep space. Full-height quartz backsplash panels and a custom wrapped hood create a seamless focal point around the range, adding understated luxury while maintaining the calm, cohesive aesthetic.
Warm brass hardware and statement pendant lighting introduce elegant contrast against the soft wood tones and light surfaces, giving the space a polished yet approachable feel. Integrated storage solutions, custom panel-ready refrigeration, and carefully planned cabinetry details maximize usability while preserving the clean visual flow of the kitchen.
The adjoining deep navy built-in cabinetry adds depth and character to the connected living spaces, creating a balanced palette that feels both timeless and elevated.
Features include:
Custom white oak cabinetry
Transitional shaker-style detailing
Large island with seating and storage
Quartz countertops and full-height backsplash
Custom quartz hood surround
Warm brass hardware and lighting accents
Panel-ready refrigeration
Integrated custom storage solutions
Light natural wood flooring
Remote kitchen design collaboration
Designed remotely by Dwelloquent | Kitchen & Bath Design + Custom Cabinetry

This contemporary custom home was designed to emphasize clean architectural lines, expansive natural light, and a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor living spaces. Large floor-to-ceiling windows, elevated outdoor decks, and carefully balanced exterior materials help create a modern aesthetic while still feeling warm and livable within the surrounding Pacific Northwest landscape.
The homeowners played a significant role throughout the design process, working closely with Pacific Home Source to shape the overall layout, functionality, and architectural direction of the home. Every space was thoughtfully considered to support both everyday living and entertaining, while maximizing views, openness, and natural light throughout the residence.
The project combines modern design principles with practical family-focused living, resulting in a home that feels refined, comfortable, and highly personalized to the clients’ vision. From the dramatic glazing and open living areas to the seamless outdoor integration, this residence reflects a collaborative design process and a shared commitment to creating a timeless contemporary Northwest home.

These elegant twin curved staircases transform the foyer into an impressive architectural statement. Rising symmetrically on either side of the entrance, they frame a curved balcony above, creating grandeur from the moment you enter. Both staircases feature rich oak treads and stringers paired with classic black wrought-iron balusters. Custom handrail components ensure smooth, seamless transitions through every curve. Careful collaboration and precise templating during the framing phase guaranteed a perfect fit along the curved walls, proving that exceptional results require both planning and precision.
1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

It’s no surprise these Hanover clients reached out to Cathy and Ed of Renovisions for design and build services as they wanted a local professional bath specialist to turn their plain builder-grade bath into a luxurious handicapped accessible master bath.
Renovisions had safety and universal design in mind while creating this customized two-person super shower and well-appointed master bath so their clients could escape to a special place to relax and energize their senses while also helping to conserve time and water as it is used simultaneously by them.
This completely water proofed spacious 4’x8’ walk-in curb-less shower with lineal drain system and larger format porcelain tiles was a must have for our senior client –with larger tiles there are less grout lines, easier to clean and easier to maneuver using a walker to enter and exit the master bath.
Renovisions collaborated with their clients to design a spa-like bath with several amenities and added conveniences with safety considerations. The bench seat that spans the width of the wall was a great addition to the shower. It’s a comfortable place to sit down and stretch out and also to keep warm as electric mesh warming materials were used along with a programmable thermostat to keep these homeowners toasty and cozy!
Careful attention to all of the details in this master suite created a peaceful and elegant environment that, simply put, feels divine. Adding details such as the warming towel rack, mosaic tiled shower niche, shiny polished chrome decorative safety grab bars that also serve as towel racks and a towel rack inside the shower area added a measure of style. A stately framed mirror over the pedestal sink matches the warm white painted finish of the linen storage cabinetry that provides functionality and good looks to this space. Pull-down safety grab bars on either side of the comfort height high-efficiency toilet was essential to keep safety as a top priority.
Water, water everywhere for this well deserving couple – multiple shower heads enhances the bathing experience for our client with mobility issues as 54 soft sprays from each wall jet provide a soothing and cleansing effect – a great choice because they do not require gripping and manipulating handles yet provide a sleek look with easy cleaning. The thermostatic valve maintains desired water temperature and volume controls allows the bather to utilize the adjustable hand-held shower on a slide-bar- an ideal fixture to shower and spray down shower area when done.
A beautiful, frameless clear glass enclosure maintains a clean, open look without taking away from the stunning and richly grained marble-look tiles and decorative elements inside the shower. In addition to its therapeutic value, this shower is truly a design focal point of the master bath with striking tile work, beautiful chrome fixtures including several safety grab bars adding aesthetic value as well as safety benefits.

Project Description: Warm Modern Kitchen + Bath Refresh
This kitchen remodel blends warm, rich materials with durable, modern functionality. We elevated the space with custom cherry wood cabinetry, bringing timeless elegance and a sense of craftsmanship to the heart of the home. The countertops and full-height backsplash feature Mystere Gold Quartz from ARC Surfaces—a creamy, ivory-toned quartz with subtle gold veining. This material is not only visually striking but also non-porous, stain-resistant, and low maintenance—ideal for everyday use.
Fixtures include a Kohler Vibrant Stainless kitchen faucet, Kohler undermount single-bowl sink, and flat black cabinet hardware, all sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring in collaboration with KellyJo. The hardwood flooring throughout was carefully sanded, refinished, and stained using a custom mix from DuraSeal, adding depth and warmth to every step.
For the bathroom, we kept the updates minimal yet impactful: we installed a new vanity top using the same quartz, Moen Doux brushed nickel faucets, and Kohler Caxton undermount sinks—all also sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring. The continuity in materials ties the spaces together and maintains a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
Design & Build:
Veron Builders LLC + Boulder Design Group
Vendors & Materials:
Cabinetry: Custom Cherry
Countertops/Backsplash: Mystere Gold Quartz – ARC Surfaces
Kitchen Fixtures: Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Bathroom Fixtures: Moen + Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Hardwood Floors: Refinished & custom-stained – DuraSeal
This project is a beautiful example of how selective upgrades and premium materials can completely transform the look and feel of a home while maintaining warmth, function, and personal style.

Claremont Dream Home
A Single Family New Construction
Chicago, Illinois
Type: New Construction
Location: Ravenswood Neighborhood, Chicago, IL
We had the pleasure of collaborating with a young family to shape their vision of a welcoming, laid-back home in this new construction home. AHD was hired at the early stages of construction to create a cohesive environment from the architectural finishes, lighting design to the furnishings and decor.
This project is a testament to the couple's diverse cultural influences, blending their English heritage with the rich tapestry of their travels through India. Through thoughtful design choices, we've sought to create an environment that not only reflects their personal style but also accommodates their evolving family needs.
Our focus has been on crafting a contemporary interior that prioritizes both comfort and durability, ensuring that every aspect of the space is not only inviting but also functional for their growing family. We selected bespoke furnishings, where craftsmanship takes center stage. Each piece was carefully curated to embody an organic biophilic aesthetic, creating a refreshing haven using earthy colors and genuine materials.
Our ultimate design intent was to create a space that is healthy, practical as well as aesthetically pleasing, tailored to the lifestyle and preferences of our clients.

The CSU Foundation Office Remodel at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO, revitalizes a dated university space into a dynamic, modern workplace. This interior design project features a flexible, open floor plan to promote collaboration and functionality, incorporating a welcoming reception area, various open work zones, 15 private offices, a small conference room, and a break room, all tailored to the needs of employees and clients. Inspired by the Foundation’s existing office, designed in 2018, the remodel showcases a bold aesthetic with vibrant pops of color integrated through meticulously designed custom furniture. Our team crafted bespoke furniture pieces, carefully selecting fabrics and finishes to align with the Foundation’s signature color palette, ensuring a cohesive and striking visual identity. A creative exposed ceiling, painted dark to enhance the sense of height in the low-ceiling space, is complemented by modern light fixtures, creating an inviting and dynamic atmosphere. In addition to design, our team played a pivotal role in managing the construction process, conducting regular site visits and thorough submittal reviews to ensure seamless execution and adherence to the project vision. This design reflects the CSU Foundation’s vibrant personality and passion, delivering an engaging and inspiring environment that enhances productivity and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

This hillside home in Piedmont, CA was remodeled to change the style from a 1940's rancher with eight foot ceilings and dark interiors, into a modern geometric composition with vast white interiors for casual living and generous daylighting for displaying the artist-owner's works.
In a city known for rigorous and difficult design review, an addition, two variances, and a full stylistic change were unanimously approved on the first round. All sloped roofs and attics were eliminated and replaced by a series of stacked and overlapping flat roofs. This made the house taller on the inside and shorter on the outside, which helped earn design review cooperation in the community. Windows were concentrated toward the rear yard views or moved up high on the side walls for daylight and privacy, benefitting the owners as well as the neighbors.
At the start, the owner husband was so enthusiastic and engaged in transforming his house into something modern that he presented the architect with a scaled foamcore model, rather than the usual magazine clippings and wish list. He participated in the design decisions throughout the process. The owner wife is the artist who did all the artwork in the house. She had been craving a display space with large walls and good natural light. Both of them loved the location and great views.
The project was an opportunity to transform the style of an older traditional home into a modern one, while solving numerous problems. By rebuilding the 1800 ft2 top of the 3-story home it was possible to change the style of the whole building, since the lower floors were a neutral base, and also to change the lifestyle of the owners, who wanted to move their master suite upstairs and live primarily on the top floor as empty nesters.
Going into the project, the architect knew there were multiple encroachments into the setbacks and potential privacy issues with close by neighbors. He approached this as a complex puzzle made up of architectural and political pieces which all had to fit together elegantly. It took many careful moves, small and large, to arrive at a serene and cohesive result that tied old and new together seamlessly.
The design-build contractor worked closely with the owners and handled all of the construction phase documents and design adjustments, adding ideas of their own to make the project really sing.
The project was a collaboration in three acts. The owner had a strong design concept from the start. The architect developed it into a realistic project and garnered the design approvals. Then the contractor executed brilliantly.

Sunday March 22, 10:30am-12:00pm
Register Online: https://tclf.org/event/garden-dialogues-2015
Patsley Residence by Keith Williams of Nievera Williams Design Incorporated
This exquisitely detailed garden created during a complete exterior renovation is the result of a close collaboration between the owners (Texas natives and self-described perfectionists) and their landscape architect. The couple wanted to bring the flavor of their Lone Star State garden and its spatial relationships to lush Palm Beach, and they wanted to spend time outdoors. The resulting carefully articulated garden features a series of “rooms” for dining, lounging and entertaining – day and night – arrayed around a classically elegant pool.
The layered plantings provide a richly textured green backdrop with palm trees offering some shade. Colorful accents come from bright pink blooms of bougainvillea climbing the side of the house and wrapping about the brick columns of an existing pergola that was redesigned and relocated to one end of the pool. Tucked into one corner is a fountain, while a courtyard space features an intricate pattern made from hand set stones and well manicured lawn panels.
Photos courtesy Nievera Williams Design

This bathroom was created for homeowners who found us online and reached out after seeing our work, trusting us to bring their vision to life. From the start, we worked together seamlessly, listening closely to what they wanted and guiding them through every step of the process. The result is a calm, spa-like space with a large walk-in shower, warm stone-look tile, a built-in bench, and sleek matte black fixtures that feel modern yet timeless. Soft LED lighting highlights the tile and adds a relaxing glow, while the double vanity with custom cabinetry and backlit mirrors keeps the room bright, functional, and uncluttered. Natural stone floors add warmth and flow throughout the space. This project is a perfect example of how collaboration, clear communication, and attention to detail can turn a homeowner’s vision into a beautiful, well-crafted bathroom they’ll enjoy every day—and the same level of care we bring to every client who finds us and trusts us with their home.

We are thrilled to present one of our recent major renovation projects, an exquisite transformation of an old townhouse/terrace house located in the scenic Sydney Northern Beaches. This project is a testament to our commitment to delivering excellence and luxurious details in every aspect of our architectural design and building services.
With a passion for preserving the historical charm of the old townhouse, while infusing it with modern elegance and sophistication, our team of skilled architects and builders worked vigorously to bring this vision to life. We understand the importance of maintaining the unique character of heritage buildings, and this project showcases our expertise in seamlessly blending the old with the new.
Our collaboration with Strata was instrumental in obtaining the necessary approvals and ensuring compliance with the strata bylaws. Additionally, we worked closely with the City of North Sydney Council to secure their approval for the renovation, ensuring that every aspect of the project adhered to the highest standards of quality and safety.
These photos belong to the house, before the renovation
The result is a stunning transformation that not only enhances the architectural beauty of the townhouse but also offers a luxurious and modern living space. Our meticulous attention to detail is evident in every element of the design, from the exquisite finishes to the carefully curated materials.

Project Description: Warm Modern Kitchen + Bath Refresh
This kitchen remodel blends warm, rich materials with durable, modern functionality. We elevated the space with custom cherry wood cabinetry, bringing timeless elegance and a sense of craftsmanship to the heart of the home. The countertops and full-height backsplash feature Mystere Gold Quartz from ARC Surfaces—a creamy, ivory-toned quartz with subtle gold veining. This material is not only visually striking but also non-porous, stain-resistant, and low maintenance—ideal for everyday use.
Fixtures include a Kohler Vibrant Stainless kitchen faucet, Kohler undermount single-bowl sink, and flat black cabinet hardware, all sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring in collaboration with KellyJo. The hardwood flooring throughout was carefully sanded, refinished, and stained using a custom mix from DuraSeal, adding depth and warmth to every step.
For the bathroom, we kept the updates minimal yet impactful: we installed a new vanity top using the same quartz, Moen Doux brushed nickel faucets, and Kohler Caxton undermount sinks—all also sourced through Solutions Bath & Flooring. The continuity in materials ties the spaces together and maintains a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
Design & Build:
Veron Builders LLC + Boulder Design Group
Vendors & Materials:
Cabinetry: Custom Cherry
Countertops/Backsplash: Mystere Gold Quartz – ARC Surfaces
Kitchen Fixtures: Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Bathroom Fixtures: Moen + Kohler via Solutions Bath & Flooring
Hardwood Floors: Refinished & custom-stained – DuraSeal
This project is a beautiful example of how selective upgrades and premium materials can completely transform the look and feel of a home while maintaining warmth, function, and personal style.

Nestled in the lush landscape, a modern reinterpretation of a once-fallen barn now features a charming guest cottage with stylish details and contemporary amenities. Situated along a narrow lot in Germantown, New York, the cottage completes a cluster of existing buildings, forming an intimate courtyard on one side. Steel effect folding patio doors fully open the living areas to the expansive fields and the Catskill Mountains beyond.
The homeowners, a young family with parents living abroad, envisioned a cozy yet modern ADU for extended stays. Designed by Lauren Cawse, AIA, architect and partner at The Art of Building, the year-round retreat draws inspiration from traditional local barns while embracing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Captivating Guest Cottage Design Enhances the Senses with Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors
The modern ADU design started with the site itself. Positioned between residential and commercial neighbors, the elongated property required a careful balance of privacy and openness. Architect Lauren Cawse approached the layout by redefining the existing house and garage as the east and west sides of an outdoor room, with the new cottage forming its southern boundary. This arrangement created a clear courtyard near the main residence while directing the 800-square-foot guest house toward the open meadow and the distant Catskill Mountains.
“The unique character of the site and its history inspired the architectural direction,” says Cawse. “The intent was to create a secondary structure in the compound in clear contrast to the modern farmhouse style of the house and garage.”
A Barn-Inspired Exterior Adds Visual Flair
The exterior envelope evokes a traditional barn with a simple gable shape, weathered wood siding, cedar shingles, and a foundation veneer made of local fieldstone. A large sliding barn door adds a complementary feature to the courtyard-facing side, creating a dynamic opening that maintains uninterrupted views through the cottage to the meadow beyond.
Steel effect folding patio doors surrounding the structure add a modern touch of transparency, and simulated divided lites allow the contemporary glass wall systems to harmonize with the traditional elements of the modern ADU design.
“The goal was to fully open the living areas to the outdoors, framing views to the meadows and mountains,” says Cawse. “The positioning of the NanaWall systems frames the views and, when open, dissolves the boundary between inside and out.”
Interior Design That Mirrors Nature’s Tranquility
Inside, the design program features a simple layout with one bedroom, a full bath, a kitchenette, and a living area with a wood-burning stove. The interior, a collaboration between The Art of Building and the homeowners, is defined by an understated palette and tactile materials that reflect the natural setting. Color is introduced through the framed glass views on all sides of the structure. Reclaimed timber collar ties span the ceiling overhead, while stone surfaces and naturally patinated metal accents add quiet texture throughout.
Custom hand-painted Delft tiles along the kitchen backsplash add personal detail, and terra cotta flooring in the bathroom brings warmth and old-world charm. Soaring ceilings and abundant daylight create a peaceful play of light and shadow, shifting subtly with the seasons and emphasizing the cottage’s connection to the natural landscape outside.
Sleek Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors Elevate the Modern ADU Design Aesthetic
Three customized steel effect folding patio doors define the living space, each aligned to respond to a different edge of the site. The largest, spanning nearly 20 feet wide and just under eight feet tall, opens directly onto the stone patio, allowing the main gathering area to extend fully into the landscape. Along the side of the living room, a smaller 10-foot-wide system introduces more light and ventilation, nearly creating an open corner condition if not for the structural post that supports the façade and roofline.
At the rear, a fourth ten-foot-wide system features a French door swing panel configuration that opens toward the courtyard, strengthening the design connection to the main residence. All steel effect folding patio doors were specified with a low-maintenance, water-rated Performance Sill to safeguard against inclement weather while providing a seamless, barrier-free transition to the outdoor patio.
Unique Customizations for Visual Appeal and a Steel Effect
Each folding patio door system is configured to open outward, maximizing usable floor space in the compact interior and allowing furniture placement to remain uninterrupted. By stacking outward, the steel effect folding patio doors, specified in a SE Classic Bronze powder coat, ensure every inch of the cottage is optimized. Simulated divided lites create a consistent rhythm across windows and doors, maintaining alignment with the traditional barn-inspired exterior.
In the bedroom, a three-panel, 10-foot-wide system mirrors these customizations, matching the steel effect divided-lite pattern and outward-opening configuration, extending the indoor-outdoor connection while preserving visual continuity throughout the ADU.
“The divided lites were crucial to the architectural vision, and while budget prohibited a steel and glass system, NanaWall Systems’ thin frames provide the open and airy feeling we hoped to attain,” says Cawse. “Simulated divided lites transition the thoroughly modern element of the glass walls to remain in harmony with the otherwise traditional palette.”
Matching Windows and Doors: Create a Cohesive Design Program
Alongside the larger openings in the living areas and bedroom, a smaller 3-foot-tall NanaWall tilt turn window was added to the bathroom. This window-sized NanaWall system perfectly matches the divided lite panels and sleek frames of the steel effect folding patio doors, creating a cohesive modern ADU design throughout. The compact opening provides ventilation and natural light, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere along with natural stone flooring. The matching glass lines and sleek profiles of the NanaWall Generation 4 comprehensive product line further unify visual consistency, allowing each system to fit into the architectural style seamlessly.
“This project had three bifold glass walls, a pair of double French doors with sidelites, and a single tilt turn window,” says architect Lauren Cawse. “Being able to work with a single manufacturer provided aesthetic cohesiveness and simplified coordination.”
Sustainability Where It Matters Most
New York weather can vary from hot 85-degree summers to cold 26-degree winters. Creating an efficient living space was a primary goal. To achieve this, the design included Timber HP-insulated walls and floors with a heat pump system for effective heating and cooling. Additionally, the steel effect folding patio doors and windows were specified with double-glazed panels to ensure a tight building envelope.
Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Relaxing and Entertaining
In-house landscape designer Liz Pulver worked closely with the team to conceive open-air spaces that enhanced the connection between inside and outside. To the south end of the lot, the landscape transitions into an “enhanced meadow,” allowing the cottage to feel embedded within the surrounding fields rather than set apart from them. A circular pool was designed to mimic a natural pond with a modest footprint. Around it, a minimalist fence and sunken stone ha-ha wall offer discreet safety for young children.
Limited space due to existing infrastructure and zoning setbacks left only a small footprint for the swimming pool, prompting the designer to propose a circular form that maximized the usable swimming area. “We felt that the perfect way to integrate a pool into the property and to honor the landscape would be to treat the pool as a piece of art itself,” says Pulver. “The result is a beautiful round pool that serves as both a functional retreat and a sculptural moment.”
Final Thoughts: A Barn-Inspired Design for Contemporary Living
This modern ADU design skillfully combines modern features with the enduring charm of traditional barns. The outcome is a welcoming living space that stands out amid a stunning landscape. Natural materials that mimic the beauty of the outdoors, expansive steel effect folding patio doors that fill the space with fresh air and natural light, and a restrained interior design work together to create an inviting retreat for everyday living, throughout the seasons.
“When entering the site, the cottage feels as though it was always there,” says Cawse. “It achieves its two opposing goals by creating a feeling of intimacy and enclosure near the house while also functioning as a threshold to the expansive fields and views beyond.”
Explore how NanaWall folding patio doors elevate other ADU spaces in our inspiring project photo gallery!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Slimline Steel Effect?
Steel Effect is a folding patio door design option that replicates the appearance of traditional steel-framed glass doors. It combines the look of steel with the performance benefits of aluminum, including energy efficiency, low maintenance, greater design flexibility, and lower cost.
How does a NanaWall Steel Effect aluminum system compare to traditional steel-framed glass doors?
NanaWall Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors replicate the narrow frames of traditional steel doors with improved weather and thermal performance and easier operation. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and feature a thermally broken design for better energy efficiency and lower long-term maintenance.
What are the benefits of Steel Effect folding glass walls?
Steel Effect folding glass walls deliver the narrow sightlines and grid patterns of traditional steel, combined with the performance and low maintenance of aluminum. The slimline steel effect option offers all the benefits of our Generation 4 product line, including the FourFold / SixFold floating panel set option and smooth operation with Gothic arch stainless steel rollers on a stainless steel track.
Can Slimline Steel Effect glass walls be customized?
Yes, these systems offer a high level of customization to suit different architectural styles, including simulated divided lites specified in various patterns, popular SE colors for a true steel effect look, and a contemporary glass stop option for a refined look. Contact your local NanaWall representative for additional options here.
How energy-efficient and weather-resistant are Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors?
Steel effect folding systems are engineered for strong thermal and weather performance. Thermally broken frames and high-performance glazing help improve energy efficiency. Each NanaWall system has been independently tested for air, water, structural integrity, and forced entry with excellent results.
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