Our goal on this project was to make the main floor of this lovely early 20th century home in a popular Vancouver neighborhood work for a growing family of four. We opened up the space, both literally and aesthetically, with windows and skylights, an efficient layout, some carefully selected furniture pieces and a soft colour palette that lends a light and playful feel to the space. Our clients can hardly believe that their once small, dark, uncomfortable main floor has become a bright, functional and beautiful space where they can now comfortably host friends and hang out as a family. Interior Design by Lori Steeves of Simply Home Decorating Inc. Photos by Tracey Ayton Photography.

John Lennon
Small urban vinyl floor kitchen photo in Miami with a double-bowl sink, shaker cabinets, black cabinets, quartz countertops, terra-cotta backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Enclosed kitchen - small transitional single-wall porcelain tile and brown floor enclosed kitchen idea in New York with an undermount sink, white cabinets, white backsplash, mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops

The Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project aims to create an exquisite outdoor living space that seamlessly blends functionality, aesthetics, and versatility. By incorporating a louvered roof system, folding doors, and an outdoor kitchen, this project offers the perfect setting for relaxation, entertainment, and culinary experiences. The centerpiece of this project is the louvered roof pergola. The louvered roof consists of adjustable slats that can be opened or closed, allowing for precise control over sunlight, shade, and ventilation. This feature enables occupants to adapt to changing weather conditions and preferences, providing a comfortable environment throughout the year. The pergola's folding doors provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. These doors can be fully opened to extend the living area or closed to create a more intimate setting. The doors are designed to maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, while also providing privacy and security when needed. The outdoor kitchen complements the pergola, offering a convenient and functional space for cooking and dining. Equipped with high-quality appliances, ample counter space, and storage options, the kitchen enables the preparation of gourmet meals in an outdoor setting. It can include features such as a grill, sink, refrigerator, and seating area, creating an inviting space for socializing and culinary delights. Benefits and Uses: The Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project provides numerous benefits and uses, including: Outdoor Entertainment: The pergola and outdoor kitchen create an ideal space for hosting gatherings, parties, and barbecues. The versatile design allows for flexible seating arrangements and the integration of audiovisual equipment for an immersive entertainment experience. Relaxation and Recreation: The outdoor living area offers a tranquil retreat for relaxation, reading, or enjoying the beauty of nature. The adjustable louvered roof provides control over sunlight and shade, ensuring comfort and protection from the elements. Al Fresco Dining: The outdoor kitchen encourages al fresco dining experiences, enabling homeowners to enjoy meals in the fresh air and picturesque surroundings. The well-equipped kitchen facilitates effortless food preparation and enhances the overall dining experience. Increased Property Value: The addition of a louvered roof pergola with folding doors and an outdoor kitchen enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the property. This can increase the value of the home and attract potential buyers in the future. Sustainability Considerations: Incorporating sustainable elements into the project is crucial. The louvered roof system can be designed to capture rainwater for irrigation purposes, reducing water consumption. The use of energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting in the outdoor kitchen minimizes energy consumption. Additionally, the choice of eco-friendly materials and landscaping practices ensures a sustainable and environmentally conscious design. Project Timeline and Budget: The project timeline will depend on the size and complexity of the outdoor living space. A professional design and construction team will be required to ensure the successful implementation of the project. The budget will vary based on the desired features, materials, and appliances, and should be established after careful consideration of all elements involved. In conclusion, the Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project presents an opportunity to transform an ordinary outdoor space into a luxurious and functional oasis. By incorporating a louvered roof system, folding doors, and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen, this project offers a versatile and aesthetically pleasing environment for entertainment, relaxation, and culinary experiences.

Solar systems are at an all time low and the state and federal governments are offering a number of programs to help you install solar systems on your house. Once the solar systems are installed, you’ll will not only save a lot of money from the hefty electric bills in Los Angeles but your home’s value will also increase.

A deep retrofit reduces building cost, while increasing energy efficiency through modernization of equipment and systems, like HVAC, plumbing, electrical and recladding to name a few.

Efficiently designed laundry room
Small country single-wall porcelain tile and brown floor dedicated laundry room photo in Calgary with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white walls and a stacked washer/dryer

Small trendy u-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in DC Metro with a single-bowl sink, recessed-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, granite countertops, multicolored backsplash, glass tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

A deep retrofit reduces building cost, while increasing energy efficiency through modernization of equipment and systems, like HVAC, plumbing, electrical and recladding to name a few.

Traditional home over 8,000 sq ft out in Atlanta and off the beaten path. Vertical geothermal loop whereas the customer opted for an increased sized loop for future additions.

Traditional home over 8,000 sq ft out in Atlanta and off the beaten path. Vertical geothermal loop whereas the customer opted for an increased sized loop for future additions.

Dare to create a focal point with a red door. A beautiful new front door can increase the curb appeal of your home. It is also a great update for security and energy efficiency. Larsen sells and installs several major manufacturer's doors.

This home doesn’t just look great - it’s actually a NET ZERO READY HOME. What does that mean? Well, net zero ready homes are built to be extremely energy efficient. Meaning it’s sealed well, it’s easy to heat and keep cool, it’s air tight, and features water saving systems and energy efficient appliances. Those big windows are an incredible feature, but posed a bit of a challenge. In the winter, they’re great, and will provide lots of solar gain. But in the summer that will put pressure on the A/C - so to counteract that, the OakWood team increased the amount of insulation behind the walls, increased the airtightness of the home AND installed triple pane windows with blinds to keep the solar gain out during the summer.

Wood slat elements provide shading from the sun, and the window system is thermally broken; both features work to increase energy efficiency. Wildfire mitigation strategies, crucial for this region, are applied, including landscaping kept away from the house and a 1-hour fire rating construction for the entire building.

Such beautiful floors in great shape allowed them to be kept natural with 3 coats of poly applied. All new windows to increase efficiency.
Large elegant formal light wood floor living room photo in Cleveland with green walls, a standard fireplace and a tile fireplace

Frank M Zappala Opened up site lines, increased the efficiency of the large kitchen, tied the family room in with flow and the design, added a mud room.

Dining area positioned adjacent to internal vertical circulation. Locating stairs within the unit increases usable interior space and eliminates shared corridors.

This home doesn’t just look great - it’s actually a NET ZERO READY HOME. What does that mean? Well, net zero ready homes are built to be extremely energy efficient. Meaning it’s sealed well, it’s easy to heat and keep cool, it’s air tight, and features water saving systems and energy efficient appliances. Those big windows are an incredible feature, but posed a bit of a challenge. In the winter, they’re great, and will provide lots of solar gain. But in the summer that will put pressure on the A/C - so to counteract that, the OakWood team increased the amount of insulation behind the walls, increased the airtightness of the home AND installed triple pane windows with blinds to keep the solar gain out during the summer.

One more time... you're getting it! (Calgary Photos)
Mid-sized transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor enclosed kitchen photo in Calgary with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, gray backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island