Many West Lafayette homeowners want to change their kitchens, whether because it functions poorly, their tastes have evolved, the kitchen is deteriorating, or they simply want to change. Tackling several common pain points in their older kitchen, these West Lafayette homeowners approached Riverside Construction with a desire to open up their living area and update all the kitchen amenities including the fixtures, cabinets, and appliances. With peninsula-like counters that were too low, the kitchen also lacked much-needed countertop space. Still yet, the homeowners wanted to add a larger window above the sink to bring in natural light and expand the view of the ravine in the backyard. Riverside Construction took out the wall separating the living room from the kitchen, and changed the layout (from U-shaped to L-shaped) to create the larger, more functional space our clients were looking for. We swapped the old white cabinetry for new custom Wellborn shaker-style cabinets in a coffee stain and installed a 'City Lights Tokyo' Daltile tile backsplash. The countertops were topped with Giallo Verona granite. An oversize island was designed into the space to match the new custom cabinetry and provided comfortable seating for five, also eliminating the need for a kitchen table. The old back door was replaced with a large sliding glass door letting in more natural light. Other highlights of this kitchen remodel include a beautiful Maglia Bronze chandelier that creates a stunning focal point, along with warm and durable Bella Cera Sisters chester engineered hickory hardwood flooring throughout.

Photography by Natalie Marotta This special project is an extensive renovation of Better Homes And Gardens’ “The House You Asked For” of 1953. While the California Case Study-inspired architecture was an interesting break from 1950’s boxes, its extensive single-pane glass, internal roof drains, and slab construction were leading to structural deterioration through condensation and leaks, and a massive carbon footprint. The renovation took the form of slight plan adjustments–giving the kitchen more space, combining two entry doors into one entry space, adjusting the bedroom-bathroom area–and reworking the roof. We added a raised portion to carry ducts for conditioning and ventilation, which was also an opportunity to create spatial interest and bring in light from above, and we re-sloped the roof to drain to the perimeter instead of the middle of the house. Carbon-sequestering wood fiberboard insulation was added to the walls, and the windows were replaced with triple-glazed units. With new heat pump heating, cooling, and water heating, the operational carbon footprint was reduced by 93%.

The exterior of this historic beauty, long in need of repair, was in poor condition. Stucco cracks, paint deterioration, holes in the garage walls, and a dilapidated patio cover created daunting challenges. We carefully and respectfully addressed these issues, breathing new life into the home while maintaining its original charm.

By: Dustin Furman
Example of a trendy kitchen design in Baltimore

The salty sea air and strong winds on the bluff are incredibly hard on the exterior elements of this home. Durability and simple beauty were the main goals for this amazing seaside house and deck! We replaced the rotting cedar shake roof with a pure zinc standing seam metal roof made by Rheinzink. The deteriorating cedar siding was removed, and after extensive air sealing, was replaced with FSC-certified Ipé siding set on a rainscreen or more Rheinzink in the case of a kitchen bump-out. After the old siding and roofing were replaced we moved on to the replacing the decks and railings with more of the FSC-certified Ipé. The final result is stunning! With the new beautiful and durable Ipé and zinc surfaces the owners are excited to enjoy their home and deck with little maintenance for years to come. Design by Mark Ouellette Residential Design Photography by Radley Mueller Photography

This home was a typical Toll Brothers contemporary from the early ‘90’s. The exterior had reached the end of its life, with decayed cedar siding and a deteriorated roof. Greg & Tamara decided to use this opportunity to radically remake their home - to update its modern appeal and set it apart from any other suburban tract house. Spring Creek Design created a new deck, new siding design, entryways and sculptural landscaping for the home. Design Criteria: - Replace siding and give the home a bold, modern look. - Update the home’s landscaping with a spare modernism. - Add a new deck with an outdoor kitchen. Special Features: - Bold new exterior features fiber-cement panels and siding. -Three different colors are used to clearly define the shapes of the home. - Cantilevered concrete entryways features “floating” concrete slab landings. - Azek deck with tempered glass railings. - Custom wine-bottle light fixtures adorn the outdoor kitchen. - Massive planting boxes of Cor-Ten steel form the basis of a low-maintenance, dramatic landscape. - Custom-fabricated square gutters and downspouts compliment the linearity of the home’s design.

Client had deteriorated concrete surrounding a swimming pool. Installed a coating system to provide a non-slip. cleanable surface.
Pool - mid-sized modern backyard rectangular pool idea in Minneapolis

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.

This client of ours loves to entertain. We were commissioned to completely redesign his backyard space to include a Pavilion, an outdoor kitchen, and a fire pit area. Preparation for this work included demolishing existing deteriorated concrete and a non-functioning Koi pond. We decided on a 12′ x 14′ layout for the Cedar Pavilion. Sconce lighting, infrared heating, and a ceiling fan were added to the scope of the Pavilion project to maximize the space’s usability. For the outdoor kitchen, we chose a 38″ Delta Heat unit for the grill with matching access doors, a 20K BTU Hestan Side Burner, and a Hestan Refrigerator. We chose soapstone for the countertop and backsplash, and we veneered the kitchen structure with natural San Miguel cobblestone. The construction of the fire pit area required engineering measures to prevent damage to the nearby pine trees’ root systems from the planned improvements. This was accomplished by designing a sophisticated ventilation system installed under the patio and seat wall to allow the tree roots to continue breathing. The firepit and surrounding seat wall were constructed of CMU block and veneered with natural San Miguel stone from Telluride. Light fixtures from Unique Lighting were discreetly tucked under the seat wall cap to enhance the area’s nighttime ambiance. Large decorative mossback landscape boulders were imported to create visual interest in the setting. The plant selection for the project included ‘Panchito’ Manzanita, Dwarf Burning Bush, ‘Isanti’ Dogwood, ‘White Bud’ Mugo Pine, Japanese Astilbe, ‘Blue Giant’ Hosta, and Variegated Iris.

For more information visit http://www.cdwindows.com.com or call (800) 639-9463. This curved window sunroom we made for our client David E. in Downtown Los Angeles, California was our most challenging and proudest project yet. We had to perfectly design a never-before-attempted template to remove the ugly grids his older, aluminum window frames had made. His majestic view of Los Angeles was replaced by 16 ugly aluminum windows which were deteriorating right before his eyes. His exact comments were, "Thank you for reminding me why I moved in here and purchased this home in the first place. You guys gave me my view back." We could not be happier.

In this picture, we have added the window and much of the structural framing/reframing is complete (except for the left side). Not shown here is the contingencies we made for ventilation above the ceiling and insulation. If that critical step is not taken, it would greatly speed up the deterioration of the roof shingles (most roof damage occurs from the inside, not the outside).

The aging capsheet rock roof and deteriorating plywood decking were no longer providing adequate protection for this midcentury modern home in Huntington Harbor. We meticulously removed the old materials and installed new 1/2" CDX plywood decking, followed by a state-of-the-art 60 mil white GAF Everguard TPO roofing system, mechanically attached and heat welded at the seams. This energy-efficient roof is now backed by a full 20-year Diamond Pledge warranty from GAF.

Quickly restores outdoor weathered and heavily greyed wood surfaces. Weathered Deck Restorer will remove grey wood fiber, stains, tannin bleeding, water stains, mildew, mold and discoloured surface fiber from decks, fences, wood siding and log homes. Use to restore wood to its natural color and prepare for re-coating. Coverage: 100 - 200 sq.ft per gallon Features & Benefits: Water-based formula Removes gray wood fiber, water stains, mildew and mold Rejuvenates wood by removing deteriorated fibers Safe on treated lumber and exotic wood Safe for use around surrounding vegetation if pre-wetted prior to application Benefits: Contains no bleach Water rinse clean-up Biodegradable Easy to use Available in 5 gallon size with concentrated formula For Use On: Wood decks Fences Railings Siding Log homes Cedar shakes Gazebos APPLICATION TIPS: Weathered Deck Restorer is for outdoor weathered wood surfaces using a low pressure pump sprayer. Some dilution with water for lightly grayed wood is possible. Heavily weathered wood surfaces may look fibrous after rinsing. Wood rich in tannin may darken during restoration. If this occurs, Deck Brightener can be used to re-brighten wood. Order Weathered Wood Restorer shipped via UPS Ground at: www.surfacerestoration.com/shop

Severe water rot caused structural deterioration
Inspiration for a mid-sized craftsman master single-sink alcove bathtub remodel in Boise with open cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, a two-piece toilet, a drop-in sink, laminate countertops and a built-in vanity

Ceiling fans add a cool breeze to your outdoor living space. Make sure the one you select is rated for damp or wet location or the parts will deteriorate quickly. This space required two Craftmade Union ceiling fans #719596 on their patio - just one is pictured here. The style of the fan is reminiscent of vintage industrial lights. www.angersteins.com www.angersteinshome.com

This deteriorated masonry chimney (see un-restored chimney in the background) had been letting water penetration this home due to cracks in the masonry as a result of age and settling. Our masons removed and restored the masonry chimney cap and chimney flues to properly protect the interior building assemblies.

An extensive Industrial & Mining project that includes: DEMONSTRATION MODULE – Renovations and Additions to a 3-story, 26,150 s.f., concrete and steel Smelter Building, built in 1917. This Renovation included a new roof, new steel siding, new windows and doors, new plumbing, extensive new electrical, new Testing Laboratory, new Offices, new Slag Recovery Production Areas, new Loading Dock & extensive reinforcing of the existing concrete floor. ADMINISTRATION BUILDING RENOVATIONS – Tenant Improvements including ADA upgrades to a 100 year old Smelter Building and Warehouse. ELECTROWINNING BUILDING – A New 4,660 s.f. masonry and steel 2-story building, used for electrowinning copper and zinc. This specialized building had to be designed to withstand acid deterioration. BUILDING E – Renovations of 32,000 s.f. Smelter Electrical Building with 2,400 s.f. mezzanine, built in 1917. Renovations in include new structural additions, electrical, plumbing, Offices, Administration, Shipping & Receiving, Staff Lounge, Executive Offices, Warehouse and Vehicle Maintenance. SITE – All new utilities, new roads, upgrades to a 1917 concrete bridge leading to the 80 acre Slag Pile, renovations to the Guard House, new entry gates and security fencing, new site lighting, coordination with the Town of Clarkdale for an effluent re-use water line, new site circulation including sidewalks, steps and ADA ramps.

A full demo-to-finish backyard reinvention — replacing aging slate, deteriorating block walls, and an outdated fire feature with a refined, high-performance outdoor living space anchored by large-format porcelain tile, custom masonry planters, and integrated lighting. Materials Used: * 12" x 24" porcelain tile with colored grout * CMU block planters with #3 rebar, concrete fill, smooth stucco finish & Valori-style pre-cast concrete caps * TREX composite decking on pressure-treated frame with concrete footings * C-joint membrane and Schluter-type anti-fracture membrane system * Low-voltage LED landscape lighting (18 fixtures) * Micro-channel and channel drain drainage system * Drip irrigation throughout Scope of Work: Full demolition of existing patio, BBQ area, block walls, and fire feature. Regrading to new levels. Drainage and irrigation installation. Large-format porcelain tile across the full patio field. Custom CMU raised planters with stucco finish — patio and side yard. TREX deck reconfiguration and walkway extension. Natural gas line trenched and permitted at four riser locations. Planting of 27 five-gallon shrubs with fresh soil mix. Full site protection throughout construction. 3-D renderings produced prior to build. The Result: A backyard built to perform as well as it looks — designed for Southern California's climate, finished to a standard that lasts for decades.

Transforming this long-standing home on Bradgate Rd required more than a simple update—it called for a careful balance between renewal, structure, and respect for what was already there. The existing brick bungalow had strong bones, but the exterior was deteriorating, the carport was underutilized, and key interior spaces no longer supported the homeowners’ needs. Having lived in the home for decades, the goal wasn’t to start over—it was to rework the home into a more functional, comfortable space that could support the years ahead. The scope included a full exterior masonry refresh, where the front layer of brick was removed and replaced while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. The carport was fully enclosed and integrated into the home as a garage, and a new roof tied everything together with consistent detailing and long-term performance in mind. Inside, the layout was carefully reworked to introduce a new primary ensuite and completely renovate the main bathroom. Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems were updated throughout, with a focus on accessibility, ease of use, and everyday comfort. The result is a home that feels both familiar and elevated—where thoughtful construction and refined design come together to support long-term living without compromising character.