James Hardie
Island style kitchen photo in Sydney

James Hardie
Inspiration for a tropical home design remodel in Sydney

James Hardie
Island style entryway photo in Sydney

James Hardie
Inspiration for a tropical exterior home remodel in Sydney

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.

Your front door is your best defender. It protects you, your family, and your most valuable belongings from theft and damage. Our new collection of wrought iron doors provides superior sound and heat insulation. The solid metal construction prevents rust, while the wrought iron insert inside the glass unit eliminates the need for maintenance and keeps the door looking new for years. Special feature is the use of durable aluminum profiles that improve both strength and appearance. Furthermore, VDom Doors protect your home from extreme weather conditions, insects, and dust infiltration. Our doors offer several key advantages: - The structure is made from a single, non-welded metal sheet, which prevents internal condensation and extends the lifespan of the door mechanisms. - Reinforced stiffening ribs inside the frame increase resistance to impact and mechanical stress. - High-quality insulation materials help reduce external noise and protect against heat loss and cold penetration. Each door is designed and assembled with precision. The solid iron frame and aluminum threshold provide durability and stability, while the clean, balanced design ensures the door fits a wide range of architectural styles. Model - 0101 Iron Color - Black Glass - Safety Triplex, with mirrored-clear effect; Insulated glass with internal metal dividers, forming an 8-lite layout integrated within the iron door structure. Door thickness - 3 1/4" Frame thickness - 4" Exterior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Interior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - 2 Long Black Pull Handles VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site. A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

Your front door is your best defender. It protects you, your family, and your most valuable personal belongings from theft and damage. Special feature is a durable aluminum profiles that enhance both aesthetics and security. Furthermore, VDom Doors insulate your home from extreme weather conditions, as well as unwanted animals, insects, and dust from entering. Our doors have several superior features: - Single sheet of metal is used in construction. No welded seams are best as these can significantly weaken the structural integrity of the entranceway. Our doors are also more resilient to mechanic damage, such as sledgehammer strikes. - The advantage of a single, non-welded door is that it reduces internal condensation. Over time, condensation can negatively affect the door mechanisms. - Stiffening Ribs: These non-visible details add to our door's security. - Quality insulation serves to reduce unwanted external noise, as well as protect against extreme heat, and severe cold. Introducing our modern exterior entrance door, a stylish addition to any contemporary home or building. Crafted from a single sheet of metal, this door features a sturdy aluminum frame and threshold for added durability and security. The simple yet striking design is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. Upgrade your entrance with our modern exterior entrance door today. Model - 6777 Cynex Color - Brown Glass - safety triplex, with mirrored-clear effect Door thickness - 3 1/4" Frame thickness - 4" Exterior design - Brown enamel finish with slim vertical glass panel and stainless steel inserts at the top and bottom of the glass. Interior design - Same vertical glass panel with matching stainless steel inserts at the top and bottom; brown enamel metal finish. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - Modern Handle VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site.

Special feature is a durable aluminum profiles that enhance both aesthetics and security. Furthermore, VDom Doors insulate your home from extreme weather conditions, as well as unwanted animals, insects, and dust from entering. Our doors have several superior features: - Single sheet of metal is used in construction. No welded seams are best as these can significantly weaken the structural integrity of the entranceway. Our doors are also more resilient to mechanic damage, such as sledgehammer strikes. - The advantage of a single, non-welded door is that it reduces internal condensation. Over time, condensation can negatively affect the door mechanisms. - Stiffening Ribs: These non-visible details add to our door's security. - Quality insulation serves to reduce unwanted external noise, as well as protect against extreme heat, and severe cold. Introducing our modern exterior entrance door, a stylish addition to any contemporary home or building. Crafted from a single sheet of metal, this door features a sturdy aluminum frame and threshold for added durability and security. The simple yet striking design is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. Upgrade your entrance with our modern exterior entrance door today. Model - 6113 Cynex Color - Natural Oak Glass - safety triplex, with mirrored-clear effect Door thickness - 3 1/4" Frame thickness - 4" Exterior design - vertical oak-look studs with black enamel coating Interior design - white enamel metal with decorative vertical grooves. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - Modern Handle VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site.

Special feature is a durable aluminum profiles that enhance both aesthetics and security. Furthermore, VDom Doors insulate your home from extreme weather conditions, as well as unwanted animals, insects, and dust from entering. Our doors have several superior features: - Single sheet of metal is used in construction. No welded seams are best as these can significantly weaken the structural integrity of the entranceway. Our doors are also more resilient to mechanic damage, such as sledgehammer strikes. - The advantage of a single, non-welded door is that it reduces internal condensation. Over time, condensation can negatively affect the door mechanisms. - Stiffening Ribs: These non-visible details add to our door's security. - Quality insulation serves to reduce unwanted external noise, as well as protect against extreme heat, and severe cold. Introducing our modern exterior entrance door, a stylish addition to any contemporary home or building. Crafted from a single sheet of metal, this door features a sturdy aluminum frame and threshold for added durability and security. The simple yet striking design is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. Upgrade your entrance with our modern exterior entrance door today. Model - 6777 Cynex Color - Brown Glass - safety triplex, with mirrored-clear effect Door thickness - 3 1/4" Frame thickness - 4" Exterior design - Brown enamel finish with slim vertical glass panel and stainless steel inserts at the top and bottom of the glass. Interior design - Same vertical glass panel with matching stainless steel inserts at the top and bottom; brown enamel metal finish. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - Modern Handle VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site. A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

Special feature is a durable aluminum profiles that enhance both aesthetics and security. Furthermore, VDom Doors insulate your home from extreme weather conditions, as well as unwanted animals, insects, and dust from entering. Our doors have several superior features: - Single sheet of metal is used in construction. No welded seams are best as these can significantly weaken the structural integrity of the entranceway. Our doors are also more resilient to mechanic damage, such as sledgehammer strikes. - The advantage of a single, non-welded door is that it reduces internal condensation. Over time, condensation can negatively affect the door mechanisms. - Stiffening Ribs: These non-visible details add to our door's security. - Quality insulation serves to reduce unwanted external noise, as well as protect against extreme heat, and severe cold. Introducing our modern exterior entrance door, a stylish addition to any contemporary home or building. Crafted from a single sheet of metal, this door features a sturdy aluminum frame and threshold for added durability and security. The simple yet striking design is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. Upgrade your entrance with our modern exterior entrance door today. Model - 6777 Cynex Color - Brown Glass - safety triplex, with mirrored-clear effect Door thickness - 3 1/4" Frame thickness - 4" Exterior design - Brown enamel finish with slim vertical glass panel and stainless steel inserts at the top and bottom of the glass. Interior design - Same vertical glass panel with matching stainless steel inserts at the top and bottom; brown enamel metal finish. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - Modern Handle VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site. A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

Our doors offer several key advantages: - The structure is made from a single, non-welded metal sheet, which prevents internal condensation and extends the lifespan of the door mechanisms. - Reinforced stiffening ribs inside the frame increase resistance to impact and mechanical stress. - High-quality insulation materials help reduce external noise and protect against heat loss and cold penetration. Each door is designed and assembled with precision. The solid iron frame and aluminum threshold provide durability and stability, while the clean, balanced design ensures the door fits a wide range of architectural styles. Model - 0188 Iron Color - Black Glass - Safety Triplex, with mirrored-clear effect; This model has a strong, balanced look with six horizontal glass openings that add rhythm and light to the solid iron surface. The long pull handle runs in line with the door’s clean geometry, giving it a confident, well-proportioned appearance that fits both contemporary and transitional exteriors. Door thickness - 3 11/16" Frame thickness - 3 13/16" Exterior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Interior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - 2 Long Black Pull Handles VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site. A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

Our doors offer several key advantages: - The structure is made from a single, non-welded metal sheet, which prevents internal condensation and extends the lifespan of the door mechanisms. - Reinforced stiffening ribs inside the frame increase resistance to impact and mechanical stress. - High-quality insulation materials help reduce external noise and protect against heat loss and cold penetration. Each door is designed and assembled with precision. The solid iron frame and aluminum threshold provide durability and stability, while the clean, balanced design ensures the door fits a wide range of architectural styles. Model - 0188 Iron Color - Black Glass - Safety Triplex, with mirrored-clear effect; This model has a strong, balanced look with six horizontal glass openings that add rhythm and light to the solid iron surface. The long pull handle runs in line with the door’s clean geometry, giving it a confident, well-proportioned appearance that fits both contemporary and transitional exteriors. Door thickness - 3 11/16" Frame thickness - 3 13/16" Exterior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Interior design - Coating of the door - Black Enamel metal. Hardware included: - Aluminum frame 4" thick - dimensions of the door 36" x 80" with the frame is 38" x 82". - Aluminum threshold. - Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of steel doors, locked by 3 key turns, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys. - Cylinder. - 3D Hinges. - Turnknob for lock. - Armor plate for the lock. - 2 Long Black Pull Handles VDom smart lock option provides keyless fingerprint access and is available as an add-on. Each door comes prehung in a sturdy aluminum frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site. A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.