Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

A quiet retreat for an empty-nest couple seeking a more essential lifestyle, this home offers the best of what they need in a compact and efficient, but well-articulated and rich, architectural experience.

This Wilmette, IL Cape Cod Style Home was remodeled by Siding & Windows Group. We installed James HardiePlank Select Cedarmill Lap Siding in Custom ColorPlus Technology Color and Traditional HardieTrim in ColorPlus Technology Color Arctic White with top and bottom frieze boards. Also remodeled Front Entry Portico with White Wood Columns and new Roof.

Exterior Projects for your home may include: Siding, Roofing, Decks & Patios, Garages, Sunrooms, Windows & Entry Doors! Exterior projects are great for setting an exceptional first impression for anyone driving through your neighborhood. Enjoying your home is possible both inside and out! Contact us for a FREE in-home consultation! (614)707-7003

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

The Ridge Residence has been carefully placed on the steeply sloped site to take advantage of the awe-inspiring views. The Glo European Windows A5 Double Pane series was selected for the project to provide cost effective durability and value. Full lite entry doors from the A5 series provide natural daylight and access to the energy efficient home while delivering a much higher performance value than traditional aluminum doors and windows. Large asymmetrical window configurations of fixed and tilt & turn windows provide natural ventilation throughout the home and capture the stunning views across the valley. A variety of exterior siding materials including stucco, dark horizontal wood and vertical ribbed metal are countered with an unembellished Dutch hip roof creating a composition that is both engaging and simplistic. Regardless of season, the Ridge Residence provides comfort, beauty, and breathtaking views of the Montana landscape surrounding it.

This homeowner lived on a very prominent golf course and wanted to feel like he was on the putting green of the 9th hole while standing at his family room window. The existing layout of the home had the garage enjoying that view with the outdated dining room, family room and kitchen further back on the lot. We completely demoed the garage and a section of the home, allowing us to design and build with that view in mind. The completed project has the family room at the back of the home with a gorgeous view of the golf course from two large curved bay windows. A new fireplace with custom cabinetry and shelf niches and coffered high ceilings makes this room a treasure. The new kitchen boasts of white painted cabinetry, an island with wood top and a 6 burner Wolf cooktop with a custom hood, white tile with multiple trim details and a pot filler faucet. A Butler’s Pantry was added for entertaining complete with beautiful white painted cabinetry with glass upper cabinets, marble countertops and a prep sink and faucet. We converted an unused dining room into a custom, high-end home office with beautiful site- built mahogany bookcases to showcase the homeowners book collections. To complete this renovation, we added a “friends” entry and a mudroom for improved access and functionality. The transformation is not only efficient but aesthetically pleasing to the eye and exceeded the homeowner’s expectations to enjoy their view of the 9th hole.

Our clients had purchased a lot on Lake Charlevoix and they hired us to help them design their family vacation home and that is what we did. You are welcomed into the home by a traditional double column gabled entry porch. This classic cottage design features an open floor plan with cathedral ceilings in the living room and plenty of natural light to capture views. The fireplace with built-ins serves as a beautiful focal point. The home has a master suite on the main level as well as another guest suite. The kitchen is warm and welcoming with a central island and plenty of counter space. A 3/4 bath is located off the mudroom / laundry area which also features a beach entry to minimize sand coming into the home. Ship-lap finish is throughout the first floor living spaces. The second floor has two guest bedrooms with dormers facing the view, a full bathroom, loft area and plenty of storage. We employed an efficient use of space with four bedrooms and four baths in just under 3000 square feet. The 2 1/2 car garage has stairs leading to a bonus room. The exterior finishes are low maintenance using a mixture of lap siding, shake siding and board and batten detailing. Standing seam metal roofing emphasizes the window seat and highlights exterior porches. Raised panels also highlight bump outs and other exterior details.

For a small family in the Boston suburbs, their modest sized home was just the right size. But with some smart changes, they wondered if it could be more enjoyable. Working with architect Joseph S. Artley, we came up with a number of solutions: • To make the kitchen a more comfortable work and gathering space, a bay window was removed and the kitchen itself bumped out slightly to allow for the introduction of an expansive island, as well as additional countertop and cabinetry. • The first floor half-bathroom was relocated to the end of the entry hall. This allowed us to connect the kitchen with what had been a three-season porch. • That three-season porch was properly heated and remodeled as a sunny breakfast nook: the perfect spot for the family to gather in the mornings. • Near the entry to the breakfast nook, an existing electrical box could not be moved. To conceal it, we suggested an oversized family bulletin board, which we provided as a gift to the homeowners. Now, it offers a great spot to catch up on the day’s activities and enjoy some family artwork while heading in for breakfast. • This family loves to read and they asked for custom built in bookshelves in the living room that would look original to the home and match existing shelving on the other side of the room. • The den is a favorite spot for the family to watch movies and play games, but the room, which had also been a three season porch prior to an earlier renovation, was drafty in the winter and hot in the summer. We introduced new, energy efficient windows and insulation throughout, resulting in a much more inviting and cozy room. Today, after barely increasing the footprint of the home, the family has a new breakfast room, a usable den, a larger and more inviting kitchen, and a better-situated first-floor bath. Lots of simple fixes = a much happier space for the whole family. Photos by Shelly Harrison

The entry hall was removed to lead to an open front parlor aka the living room which serves many purposes depending on the time of day and event. Modern living means flexibility and also not trying to do too much at one time. Mix and match products and styles to reflect your sense of style.

Andersen® 100 Series windows and patio doors are made with our revolutionary Fibrex® composite material, which allows Andersen to offer an uncommon value others can't. It's environmentally responsible and energy-efficient, and it comes in durable colors that are darker and richer than most vinyl windows.

ProVia double entry doors in Keller, TX. ProVia's Signet fiberglass doors are designed to perform better than traditional fiberglass doors. The hinge and strike stiles are dovetailed to the top and bottom rails to form a solid, integrated frame ensuring unmatched strength and durability. This highly customizable door system is available in Cherry, Mahogany, Oak, Fir, Knotty Alder, and Smooth exteriors. ProVia utilizes their exclusive DuraFuse™ Finishing System featuring P3 Fusion for a long-lasting durable finish, plus it's protected by a 10-year finish warranty. Hinge and strike stiles are 2-5/8" and 4-1/4". Custom widths and heights. Available up to 8'. Foam-filled for maximum efficiency and strength. Authentic wood look. Available with ADA Compliant Threshold. Protected by ProVia's Lifetime Limited Transferable Warranty.

ProVia double entry doors in Keller, TX. ProVia's Signet fiberglass doors are designed to perform better than traditional fiberglass doors. The hinge and strike stiles are dovetailed to the top and bottom rails to form a solid, integrated frame ensuring unmatched strength and durability. This highly customizable door system is available in Cherry, Mahogany, Oak, Fir, Knotty Alder, and Smooth exteriors. ProVia utilizes their exclusive DuraFuse™ Finishing System featuring P3 Fusion for a long-lasting durable finish, plus it's protected by a 10-year finish warranty. Hinge and strike stiles are 2-5/8" and 4-1/4". Custom widths and heights. Available up to 8'. Foam-filled for maximum efficiency and strength. Authentic wood look. Available with ADA Compliant Threshold. Protected by ProVia's Lifetime Limited Transferable Warranty.

This is my favorite area; where the roof angles & stairs/skylight intersect. It's a nice spot to perch, meditate, or yell down to the kitchen!-) We also added a storage space & hatch over the bathrooms. --Black Olive Photography

Andersen® 100 Series windows and patio doors are made with our revolutionary Fibrex® composite material, which allows Andersen to offer an uncommon value others can't. It's environmentally responsible and energy-efficient, and it comes in durable colors that are darker and richer than most vinyl windows.

Mudrooms are practical entryway spaces that serve as a buffer between the outdoors and the main living areas of a home. Typically located near the front or back door, mudrooms are designed to keep the mess of the outside world at bay. These spaces often feature built-in storage for coats, shoes, and accessories, helping to maintain a tidy and organized home. Durable flooring materials, such as tile or easy-to-clean surfaces, are common in mudrooms to withstand dirt and moisture. Additionally, mudrooms may include benches or cubbies for convenient seating and storage of bags or backpacks. With hooks for hanging outerwear and perhaps a small sink for quick cleanups, mudrooms efficiently balance functionality with the demands of an active household, providing an essential transitional space in the home.

This house was a very small mid-century bungalow with previous additions that resulted in a large but chaotic layout. The owners wanted to convert the house to a super-efficient, and charming Craftsman-style, 6 bedroom home for their large family and work at home. We achieved the space needs by moving a few walls for a more efficient, organized layout, setting up spaces for overlapping uses, and making a small upstairs addition. Every bit of square footage was optimized to meet the goals of the project without making the house huge or adding unnecessary cost. Much thought was given to the entry sequence near the front door. A large flow-through mudroom with storage for each family member, and adjacent laundry, make it easy for children to be taught to keep their things organized and to contribute to household chores. A mail station and central home admin area at the mudroom help keep clutter down at other areas and minimize home management tasks. A garage door near the kitchen gives quick access to bulk items. The existing house had too much view to the street from the living room through large corner windows, and too little entry transition, to the extent that the family did not feel comfortable using the living room much without shades drawn. We raised the window sills and brought the new windows in from the corner of the house, allowing plenty of light while protecting privacy and a sense of enclosure in the living room. We enlarged the front porch to create a more graceful transition from the public to private space. We located the front door so that the circulation from entry into the house would allow for furnishing the living room with a sitting circle that is not intruded upon by people walking through the room. Sight lines through the living spaces were an important consideration in the design. The owners wanted discreet spaces for living room, kitchen, dining and family room, but also wanted the living spaces to feel connected and to be able to easily watch their children. Being able to see the children playing in the yard while getting things done inside the house was also important. While largely working with the existing structure, we opened walls and rearranged the use of spaces to make a series of connected living spaces with long views through them. The character of the remodeled house is a contemporary Craftsman with classic materials and cool, consistent colors. A few arches echo through the house to frame spaces and soften the feeling of the rooms. Photography: Kurt Manley https://saikleyarchitects.com/portfolio/bungalow-expansion/

For many of us, our mudroom is often the first place we enter when arriving home. For our clients, a family of four with 2 young children, the mudroom had to be well designed with ample storage and an efficient lay-out. A combination of closed door and open shelving provides an abundance of storage and hanging space to house everything from boots, shoes, coats and miscellaneous gear. Ample shelving provides space for baskets of varying sizes to corral a plethora of smaller items. A generous cushioned bench for and decorative deer hooks installed above it for those easy to access items allows the family to hang and organize things and still have a space that looks clean and organized. Personal storage lockers with screen doors also provide a separated space for each person so that things can be easily stored, found and retrieved.

This modern minimalist home remodel seamlessly blends clean lines, open spaces, and functional design to create a tranquil and uncluttered living environment. Every element was carefully curated to prioritize simplicity and efficiency while enhancing the home's natural beauty. Upon entry, you’re greeted by an open-concept living area that feels expansive yet intimate, with large windows allowing natural light to flood the space. The neutral color palette of whites, soft grays, and warm wood tones creates a soothing atmosphere, while strategic use of texture—through polished concrete floors, matte metal finishes, and natural stone accents—adds depth and sophistication. The kitchen features sleek cabinetry with hidden handles, a minimalist backsplash, and top-of-the-line appliances that blend seamlessly into the space. An oversized kitchen island serves as both a functional workspace and a social hub, making it ideal for entertaining. In the living room, low-profile furniture with clean, geometric shapes encourages a sense of openness and flow. Thoughtful design details, like recessed lighting and integrated shelving, provide storage solutions without sacrificing the aesthetic of simplicity.