Search results for "Increase energy" in Home Design Ideas
ZeroEnergy DesignThis renovated brick rowhome in Boston’s South End offers a modern aesthetic within a historic structure, creative use of space, exceptional thermal comfort, a reduced carbon footprint, and a passive stream of income.
DESIGN PRIORITIES. The goals for the project were clear - design the primary unit to accommodate the family’s modern lifestyle, rework the layout to create a desirable rental unit, improve thermal comfort and introduce a modern aesthetic. We designed the street-level entry as a shared entrance for both the primary and rental unit. The family uses it as their everyday entrance - we planned for bike storage and an open mudroom with bench and shoe storage to facilitate the change from shoes to slippers or bare feet as they enter their home. On the main level, we expanded the kitchen into the dining room to create an eat-in space with generous counter space and storage, as well as a comfortable connection to the living space. The second floor serves as master suite for the couple - a bedroom with a walk-in-closet and ensuite bathroom, and an adjacent study, with refinished original pumpkin pine floors. The upper floor, aside from a guest bedroom, is the child's domain with interconnected spaces for sleeping, work and play. In the play space, which can be separated from the work space with new translucent sliding doors, we incorporated recreational features inspired by adventurous and competitive television shows, at their son’s request.
MODERN MEETS TRADITIONAL. We left the historic front facade of the building largely unchanged - the security bars were removed from the windows and the single pane windows were replaced with higher performing historic replicas. We designed the interior and rear facade with a vision of warm modernism, weaving in the notable period features. Each element was either restored or reinterpreted to blend with the modern aesthetic. The detailed ceiling in the living space, for example, has a new matte monochromatic finish, and the wood stairs are covered in a dark grey floor paint, whereas the mahogany doors were simply refinished. New wide plank wood flooring with a neutral finish, floor-to-ceiling casework, and bold splashes of color in wall paint and tile, and oversized high-performance windows (on the rear facade) round out the modern aesthetic.
RENTAL INCOME. The existing rowhome was zoned for a 2-family dwelling but included an undesirable, single-floor studio apartment at the garden level with low ceiling heights and questionable emergency egress. In order to increase the quality and quantity of space in the rental unit, we reimagined it as a two-floor, 1 or 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with a modern aesthetic, increased ceiling height on the lowest level and provided an in-unit washer/dryer. The apartment was listed with Jackie O'Connor Real Estate and rented immediately, providing the owners with a source of passive income.
ENCLOSURE WITH BENEFITS. The homeowners sought a minimal carbon footprint, enabled by their urban location and lifestyle decisions, paired with the benefits of a high-performance home. The extent of the renovation allowed us to implement a deep energy retrofit (DER) to address air tightness, insulation, and high-performance windows. The historic front facade is insulated from the interior, while the rear facade is insulated on the exterior. Together with these building enclosure improvements, we designed an HVAC system comprised of continuous fresh air ventilation, and an efficient, all-electric heating and cooling system to decouple the house from natural gas. This strategy provides optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality, improved acoustic isolation from street noise and neighbors, as well as a further reduced carbon footprint. We also took measures to prepare the roof for future solar panels, for when the South End neighborhood’s aging electrical infrastructure is upgraded to allow them.
URBAN LIVING. The desirable neighborhood location allows the both the homeowners and tenant to walk, bike, and use public transportation to access the city, while each charging their respective plug-in electric cars behind the building to travel greater distances.
OVERALL. The understated rowhouse is now ready for another century of urban living, offering the owners comfort and convenience as they live life as an expression of their values.
Eric Roth Photo
Seed Studio Landscape DesignPhotography: Travis Rhoads Photography
Example of a small trendy backyard deck design in San Francisco with a fire pit
Example of a small trendy backyard deck design in San Francisco with a fire pit
Boss Design CenterThis thoughtfully designed kitchen blends the clean simplicity of Scandinavian style with the warmth of natural materials. Light oak shaker cabinetry pairs seamlessly with a soft blue quartzite island, creating a balanced palette that feels fresh yet timeless. Brass hardware, a farmhouse sink, and oversized pendant lights add refined character without overpowering the space.
A custom range hood and full-height ceramic tile backsplash provide subtle texture and visual interest, while panel-ready appliances and smart storage solutions keep the look streamlined. The spacious island offers ample prep space and casual seating, making it both functional and welcoming for everyday life.
From the light porcelain tile flooring to the gold-toned fixtures and tailored detailing, every element works in harmony to create a bright, inviting kitchen that celebrates craftsmanship and modern living.
Find the right local pro for your project
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Panda Windows & DoorsThe Belfast Residence in Ohio is a new construction, custom modern house situated on a 150 acre farm. Panda solved the challenge of extending the intimate space of the kitchen into the expansiveness of the backyard by installing fully retractable TS.60 All Aluminum Thermally Broken Folding Door Systems. Custom designed for this space, this elegant and durable folding door system spans the entire wall of the kitchen. This door system uses cutting-edge aluminum extrusions with a polyamide bar to connect the frame together while reducing heat or cold transfer. When closed, this Bi-Fold door system provides a protective barrier that lowers u-factors, limits condensation, increases energy performance, and most of all reduces thermal conductivity.
The architectural firm, Drawing Dept. designed a cantilevered roof reaching out over the pool on axis with a sunken fire pit, drawing the geometry of the house further out into the landscape. As a result, the heart of the home unrestrictedly extends toward the fire pit for optimal physical and visual connection.
Impressive architectural design intertwined with Panda’s custom Bi-Fold doors can create unimaginable opportunities. No wonder this home was awarded the 2013 Merit Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Cincinnati and the 2013 Honor Award from the CDA + Cincinnati Magazine for its exterior space!
Panda’s custom designed Bi-Fold Doors ensure that a homeowner can equally and cohesively enjoy their interior and exterior spaces. Views from the house and views of the house should hold equal merit.
To view more of Panda’s Bi-Fold Doors, please check out our gallery http://www.panda-windows.com/products/by-type/folding-doors.
Architect: Drawing Dept.
Contractor: Camery Hensley Construction
Photography: Ross Van Pelt
IDF StudioPhoto by Christopher Stark.
Example of a transitional light wood floor and beige floor living room design in San Francisco with white walls and a standard fireplace
Example of a transitional light wood floor and beige floor living room design in San Francisco with white walls and a standard fireplace
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Panda Windows & DoorsThe Belfast Residence in Ohio is a new construction, custom modern house situated on a 150 acre farm. Panda solved the challenge of extending the intimate space of the kitchen into the expansiveness of the backyard by installing fully retractable TS.60 All Aluminum Thermally Broken Folding Door Systems. Custom designed for this space, this elegant and durable folding door system spans the entire wall of the kitchen. This door system uses cutting-edge aluminum extrusions with a polyamide bar to connect the frame together while reducing heat or cold transfer. When closed, this Bi-Fold door system provides a protective barrier that lowers u-factors, limits condensation, increases energy performance, and most of all reduces thermal conductivity.
The architectural firm, Drawing Dept. designed a cantilevered roof reaching out over the pool on axis with a sunken fire pit, drawing the geometry of the house further out into the landscape. As a result, the heart of the home unrestrictedly extends toward the fire pit for optimal physical and visual connection.
Impressive architectural design intertwined with Panda’s custom Bi-Fold doors can create unimaginable opportunities. No wonder this home was awarded the 2013 Merit Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Cincinnati and the 2013 Honor Award from the CDA + Cincinnati Magazine for its exterior space!
Panda’s custom designed Bi-Fold Doors ensure that a homeowner can equally and cohesively enjoy their interior and exterior spaces. Views from the house and views of the house should hold equal merit.
To view more of Panda’s Bi-Fold Doors, please check out our gallery http://www.panda-windows.com/products/by-type/folding-doors.
Architect: Drawing Dept.
Contractor: Camery Hensley Construction
Photography: Ross Van Pelt
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
Landis Architects | BuildersThe owners of this stately Adams Morgan rowhouse wanted to reconfigure rooms on the two upper levels to create a primary suite on the third floor and a better layout for the second floor. Our crews fully gutted and reframed the floors and walls of the front rooms, taking the opportunity of open walls to increase energy-efficiency with spray foam insulation at exposed exterior walls.
The original third floor bedroom was open to the hallway and had an outdated, odd-shaped bathroom. We reframed the walls to create a suite with a master bedroom, closet and generous bath with a freestanding tub and shower. Double doors open from the bedroom to the closet, and another set of double doors lead to the bathroom. The classic black and white theme continues in this room. It has dark stained doors and trim, a black vanity with a marble top and honeycomb pattern black and white floor tile. A white soaking tub capped with an oversized chandelier sits under a window set with custom stained glass. The owners selected white subway tile for the vanity backsplash and shower walls. The shower walls and ceiling are tiled and matte black framed glass doors seal the shower so it can be used as a steam room. A pocket door with opaque glass separates the toilet from the main bath. The vanity mirrors were installed first, then our team set the tile around the mirrors. Gold light fixtures and hardware add the perfect polish to this black and white bath.
Bellingham Bay BuildersAfter many years of careful consideration and planning, these clients came to us with the goal of restoring this home’s original Victorian charm while also increasing its livability and efficiency. From preserving the original built-in cabinetry and fir flooring, to adding a new dormer for the contemporary master bathroom, careful measures were taken to strike this balance between historic preservation and modern upgrading. Behind the home’s new exterior claddings, meticulously designed to preserve its Victorian aesthetic, the shell was air sealed and fitted with a vented rainscreen to increase energy efficiency and durability. With careful attention paid to the relationship between natural light and finished surfaces, the once dark kitchen was re-imagined into a cheerful space that welcomes morning conversation shared over pots of coffee.
Every inch of this historical home was thoughtfully considered, prompting countless shared discussions between the home owners and ourselves. The stunning result is a testament to their clear vision and the collaborative nature of this project.
Photography by Radley Muller Photography
Design by Deborah Todd Building Design Services
4