Originally built in 1892, this quaint log cabin has undergone a transformative renovation while preserving its charming character. Located near the Little Deschutes River in Central Oregon, within the historic Vandert Homestead, the home now boasts bright, open spaces for everyday living, complete with flexible aluminum clad folding doors. Working alongside contractor Bales Inc., architect Jeff Klein from Klein Architecture led the renovation with the goal of opening the once dark interior to natural light and the surrounding landscape. Central to the design was transforming a deteriorating garage into a new functional sunroom, creating a light-filled space that reorients the cabin design toward the patio and natural environment. Restoring a Historic Cabin with Aluminum Clad Folding Doors outdoor living with aluminum clad folding door A Revamped Cabin Design for Indoor-Outdoor Living The former garage is now a transitional space between the cabin and a natural stone patio. Positioned along the south elevation, the sunroom captures daylight throughout the day while acting as a buffer between the interior and exterior environments. A revised roof assembly was developed to resolve previous drainage failures. Working with framers, the design team incorporated a sloping roof system with a waterproof membrane to direct water away from the structure. This approach not only protected the log walls but also created access to a rooftop deck from the upper level, adding functional outdoor space without expanding the building footprint. “It was also critical to transform the existing dark, segmented interior spaces by physically opening them up to the new sunroom,” says Klein. “NanaWall systems offered the ideal solution for what we were after.” historical homestead interior Improving Spatial Flow, From the Kitchen to the Sunroom The kitchen remained largely intact during the renovation, retaining many of the elements that had defined the cabin’s character for decades. Features such as the farmhouse sink, concrete countertops, butcher-block island, and built-in seating were retained, creating a perfect blend of old and new. What changed was how the kitchen connects to the surrounding rooms. The layout now flows naturally into an adjacent dining area before extending into the newly added sunroom, delivering a seamless transition from the interiors to the outdoors through aluminum clad folding doors. Historic log cabin with clad folding doors and windows A Light-Filled Sunroom Designed for Gatherings with Aluminum Clad Windows and Doors The newly added sunroom became the centerpiece of the cabin design. Designed as a bright, welcoming space, it connects the historic cabin to the natural stone patio beyond. Interior designer Sue Olson helped create the room's atmosphere by choosing finishes and furnishings that complement the cabin's rustic materials while keeping the space open and inviting. The sunroom captures sunlight throughout the day and serves as a flexible space for dining, relaxing, and entertaining. The addition was designed to sit comfortably alongside the existing log structure while introducing expansive glazing and aluminum clad folding doors that draw daylight deep into the home. NanaWall aluminum clad folding doors and windows Aluminum Clad Folding Doors Open the Sunroom to the Patio A NanaWall aluminum clad folding glass door opens the south wall of the sunroom, creating a direct connection to the natural stone patio. Spanning more than thirteen feet wide and nearly eight feet tall, the system allows the entire façade to open when the panels are folded back. Specified with pine wood frames and simulated divided lites, the door complements the cabin’s traditional materials while introducing the flexibility of modern indoor-outdoor living. When closed, the door frames the view while bringing daylight into the sunroom. When open, the space seamlessly flows into the patio. Plus, customized with double glazed panels, these aluminum clad systems offer an insulated barrier that keeps cold weather out and keeps comfortable interiors year-round. “The NanaWall system was the ideal solution for the proposed design,” says Klein. “The result is a seamless connection between the sheltered interior area and the openness of the outdoor environment.” aluminum clad folding windows A Folding Window Creates an Indoor-Outdoor Bar Complementing the folding door and indoor-outdoor cabin design, a NanaWall aluminum clad folding window was installed at bar height along the sunroom wall facing the patio. Stretching more than thirteen feet across and just over four feet in height, the opening transforms the wall into a casual indoor-outdoor serving counter. Specified with matching pine wood frames and simulated divided lites, the system folds away easily, creating an indoor-outdoor bar that encourages interaction between the sunroom and patio. When open, the counter becomes a flexible gathering point for meals, drinks, and conversation, allowing those inside and outside to share the space comfortably. “The NanaWall door and window systems played a pivotal role in achieving our design objectives,” says Klein. “The connection between the indoor and outdoor environment has become seamless.” inoor-outdoor living with clad folding windows and doors The Flexible Design Solution for Every Home Style Beyond creating large openings, the NanaWall aluminum clad folding doors were chosen for how well they integrate with the cabin’s traditional architecture while delivering modern functionality. The wood clad panels, specified with simulated divided lites, reflect the style and charm of classic window detailing, while panels that fold outward maximize usable space inside the cabin. Minimal frames maximize glass area, drawing natural light deeper into the sunroom and adjacent spaces. Paired with higher weather performance sills, the systems are built to withstand the region’s climate while allowing the sunroom to shift easily between a sheltered interior space and an open-air extension of the patio. Additionally, NanaWall aluminum clad systems feature clip-on cladding technology that allows the wood to breathe in environments where temperatures are extremely hot, humid, or cold. This, in turn, aligns with the renovation’s goal of resolving prior drainage and moisture issues. outdoor living with NanaWall aluminum clad systems Final Thoughts: Historic Cabin Design Reimagined for Modern Living Today, the Vandevert Homestead perfectly blends old-time charm with modern living. The renovation maintains the historic character of the original log structure while introducing brighter, more connected spaces that better engage with the surrounding landscape. With the transformation of the garage into a light-filled sunroom and flexible NanaWall aluminum clad folding doors, everyday living now flows naturally between the kitchen, dining area, sunroom, and patio. The result is a cabin that feels both timeless and renewed, where historic craftsmanship remains intact while the home experience is lighter, more open, and closely tied to the natural beauty of Central Oregon.

An exterior view of the townhouse extension. Black windows contrast against the brick building. A custom steel railing and and stairs connect the kitchen to the yard. Photo by Charlie Bennet

Photo: Lauren Andersen © 2019 Houzz
Kitchen - contemporary kitchen idea in San Francisco

Family room - large coastal open concept dark wood floor and brown floor family room idea in Miami with white walls, no fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Kitchen - modern kitchen idea in San Francisco

Open family room with views of the mountains, custom stone fireplace with tall ceiling designs. Kitchen connects with the family room.
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Design/build by Columbine Design
This is an example of a large traditional backyard brick formal garden in Denver with a fire pit.

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Shed roof forms open the interior space to the views on the two volumes closest to the water. The entry porch opens directly onto the main living volume. Movement through the house involves a constant shifting of one's visual axis from water to forest to other wings of the home to outdoor courtyards and meadows. This is done to connect the inhabitants on a deeper level to the site. Photo: Eric Reinholdt

Nestled in the heart of nature, this 1,590 sqft home in Santa Barbara was crafted as a tranquil retreat where architecture and landscape exist in perfect harmony. Designed by HENNE Creative, the project blurs the boundaries between indoors and out, creating a seamless connection to the forest that surrounds it. The exposed wooden ceiling beams echo the rhythm of the trees, while expansive glass panels flood the space with natural light transforming sunlight into a design element. A carefully curated palette of organic textures and tones gives the interior a timeless warmth: natural linen upholstery, walnut finishes, and earthy hues create a sense of calm and grounded elegance. This space is designed not just to be lived in, but to be experienced. The open kitchen invites gathering and conversation, while the sunken lounge area and modern fireplace redefine comfort with sculptural softness. Here, minimalism meets emotion. Every detail is intentional, every material chosen to foster a deeper connection with nature. It’s more than just a home it’s a daily ritual of serenity, simplicity, and beauty in its most essential form.

We took our clients home to the next level. A touch of glamour from every vantage point and a custom crafted the hood center stage finished in stainless and accented with matte brass. Sitting snuggly next to the custom hood are wall cabinets in a two-toned finish with X mullions. The inserts in the wall cabinets where chosen to be an antique mirror to add a big of glam but also to keep the mess hidden behind the door. It’s not just a place to cook dinner, it’s an interior design, it’s decor that deserves to be featured in a magazine. Metallic accents will give your kitchen a glamorous touch no matter its style or design: silver, bronze, rose or yellow gold work especially great in neutral black and white interiors. Patterned, metallic, or textured, interesting backsplash tile bring this kitchen to the next level by adding character to the kitchen design. Across from the kitchen is the open family room area that lacked seating and flow. Our design team felt like it was important to combine this kitchen and family room into a great room and not single entities. Every room should connect to those around it in some way. If they don't, you end up with a very choppy looking and disjointed home. From light redecorating to full remodels, we're here to help transform your home. Great Design. Unique Preferences. It’s our passion to connect your rooms and make them flow together.

The kitchen at Reclaimed Wonder is a study in modern rustic charm, anchored by a striking black backsplash that brings depth and contrast to the space. Warm reclaimed wood, indigenous stone, and thoughtfully layered finishes create a kitchen that feels both artful and inviting—designed as much for beauty as for gathering. Created by the talented architects at Platt Architecture, this custom home is located within the private Wade Hampton Golf Club community in Cashiers, North Carolina. Every detail of the home was carefully considered, from the reclaimed beams and wall planks to the warm amber lighting that enhances the natural palette. Set against the serene beauty of the mountains, Reclaimed Wonder offers a refined retreat that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. J,Weiland

The "Gentry," one of the most fashionable type cast iron claw foot tubs, is the superb soaking tub for those who would enjoy venturing out into deeper waters. This 54" slipper tub with its 42 gallon capacity supplies the perfect soaking experience. The "Gentry," with its extra deep water design and smooth porcelain interior permits you to submerge yourself completely in chin deep water, developing the perfect combination of hydrotherapy and wholesome relaxation. This 54" cast iron slipper tub is the ideal choice for including style and fashion to your luxurious bathroom. The 54" "Gentry," with its ball and claw feet (available in several finishes) and 42 gallon water capacity is the optimal choice for those seeking true bathing delight with an affordable cost. Purchase the "Gentry" cast iron claw foot bathtub today! Slipper Tub Dimensions 30" x 54" 41 inches in-side tub floor space Solid 320 lbs Stylish Porcelain Interior Deep Soaking Tub - 18" of Water Depth! 42 Gallon Capacity Requires Drain & Overflow Assembly. Sold Separately Feet Available in Polished Chrome, White, Matte or Glossy Black, Brushed Nickel, Antique Bronze or Oil Rubbed Bronze Complete Manufacturers Warranty

The existing kitchen layout was flipped in order to provide a better traffic flow into and out of the space. With the refrigerator now sitting flush with the wall depth, the kitchen is more streamlined and visually less bulky. . The relocation of the peninsula allowed for deeper base cabinets for more storage, as well as a more spacious seating area. The full-height wall cabinet next to the peninsula features hidden storage spaces for the client’s crystals, while visually balancing out the refrigerator wall on the other side.

Kitchen design and remodel with black and white cabinetry, gray and white leathered quartzite countertop and slab backsplash, a marble niche, polished nickel fixtures and a butcher block walnut, Sub-Zero Wolf gas range top, stainless steel double oven, and refrigerator. Nearby fireplace has a newly designed mantel, tile surround and hearth, and painted to match black kitchen cabinetry.

Photo Credit: Mary Prince
Trendy kitchen photo in Boston

Watermark Residence was conceived as a “downsizing” project for Owners looking to transition from the home where they raised their family to a simpler lifestyle. The footprint and exterior massing of the single family condo was prescribed, but MMA wove new details into these constraints and was urged by the Owner to completely reinvent the interior experience. From the exterior, the home sits subtly on a corner lot, referencing the neighborhood in its style, but with a warmth and crispness that speaks also to the interiors. The primary goal of the project was to provide an open, inviting atmosphere of connected spaces that allowed natural light into all areas of the home. Upon entry, there is an immediate involvement in the daily activities with the living and dining rooms being the focal point, and a more intimate kitchen slightly out of view. Throughout the home, the idea of privacy and transparency plays an important role in the organization of spaces and materials chosen. More private corridors lead to intimate bedroom spaces and functional laundry and mudrooms. A two-floor, semi-transparent slat wall shields direct visibility from the street, while also providing connection between the entertaining spaces of the home. Combined with the white oak, open staircase, the movement between levels feels intuitive and inviting. A simple palette of materials, understated in their appearance but detailed in their execution, are threaded throughout the home. Gathering spaces are represented with open slats, grounding brick, white oak, and bright walls. Movement deeper into the house brings refined slat panels with integrated hardware at kitchen millwork, softly painted cabinetry, and warm tones of walnut in furniture elements. The most private spaces of the home further extrude the slat element into fluted panels, painted in deeper colors.