We are now offering a beautiful, fully operative Bahama Shutter! With these high quality fully functioning shutters you are able to use your outdoor space 365 days a year. Wood grain powder coating, traditional powder coating, multiple blade sizes, and security options are available. Enclose a balcony or patio With our movable louvered Bahama Shutters, you are able to create an outdoor room like an outdoor kitchen, add shutters for security screens, give strength and durability in high traffic areas with kids or pets, and protect your home against intruders.

They say lively conversation is the spice of life. And we are talking kitchens – so if open floor plans are de rigueur, and guests gravitate to the kitchen, why is it so difficult to have a multi-person conversation while sitting? Eating islands (and peninsulas) are in vogue for good reason: we spend most of our time in the kitchen socializing while we prep and cook. The problem is that when seated in a row, one can usually only see the person to either side. The guest on either side of your immediate neighbor is left out. Changing that straight line to convex has several effects, not the least of which is livelier conversation. The shape adds to the circumference, providing more personal space for all seated, while not intruding too much (often not more than eight inches); a gentle curve permits all guests to see each other with a nod of the head. Curves tend to soften objects, so a convex island adds a feeling of sensuality. Photography ©2014 Adam Gibson

Our Clients were ready for a complete overhaul of their existing finished basement. The existing layout did not work for their family and the finishes were old and dated. We started with the fireplace as we wanted it to be a focal point. The interlaced natural stone almost has a geometric texture to it. It brings in both the natural elements the clients love and also a much more modern feel. We changed out the old wood burning fireplace to gas and our cabinet maker created a custom maple mantel and open shelving. We balanced the asymmetry with a tv cabinet using the same maple wood for the top. The bar was also a feature we wanted to highlight- it was previously in an inconvenient spot so we moved it. We created a recessed area for it to sit so that it didn't intrude into the space around the pool table. The countertop is a beautiful natural quartzite that ties all of the finishes together. The porcelain strip backsplash adds a simple, but modern feel and we tied in the maple by adding open shelving. We created a custom bar table using a matching wood top with plenty of seating for friends and family to gather. We kept the bathroom layout the same, but updated all of the finishes. We wanted it to be an extension of the main basement space. The shower tile is a 12 x 24 porcelain that matches the tile at the bar and the fireplace hearth. We used the same quartzite from the bar for the vanity top. Overall, we achieved a warm and cozy, yet modern space for the family to enjoy together and when entertaining family and friends.

How do you make a passageway interesting without intruding on the space? This side of the bedroom serves as a path from the door to the bathroom so I chose a very narrow console to anchor the area. The Jockey photo creates another great focal point in the room and boxes provide nice hidden storage. A concrete lamp and candle finish the vignette. Notice how the large photograph intersects the cap of the beadboard. This breaks up the strong horizontal line and creates verticality to balance out the canopy bed across from it. The photo could easily be switched out for a flat screen TV...but who would want to? Photo by Walt Roycraft

A cozy and chic eat-in area with rattan backed chairs, a galvanized iron chandelier, aqua valences, and custom ticking striped cushions. This eat-in area provides plenty of seating when guests are in town, without intruding into the kitchen workspace.

Richard Mandelkorn The removal of a large, brick chimney and some disjointed structural beams in the original house allowed the dining room to have spacious access to the new open kitchen. A new built-in china hutch added some much needed storage, borrowing space from the mudroom storage behind the wall. This ingenious solution allowed for extra depth without intruding into the dining room.

Our Clients were ready for a complete overhaul of their existing finished basement. The existing layout did not work for their family and the finishes were old and dated. We started with the fireplace as we wanted it to be a focal point. The interlaced natural stone almost has a geometric texture to it. It brings in both the natural elements the clients love and also a much more modern feel. We changed out the old wood burning fireplace to gas and our cabinet maker created a custom maple mantel and open shelving. We balanced the asymmetry with a tv cabinet using the same maple wood for the top. The bar was also a feature we wanted to highlight- it was previously in an inconvenient spot so we moved it. We created a recessed area for it to sit so that it didn't intrude into the space around the pool table. The countertop is a beautiful natural quartzite that ties all of the finishes together. The porcelain strip backsplash adds a simple, but modern feel and we tied in the maple by adding open shelving. We created a custom bar table using a matching wood top with plenty of seating for friends and family to gather. We kept the bathroom layout the same, but updated all of the finishes. We wanted it to be an extension of the main basement space. The shower tile is a 12 x 24 porcelain that matches the tile at the bar and the fireplace hearth. We used the same quartzite from the bar for the vanity top. Overall, we achieved a warm and cozy, yet modern space for the family to enjoy together and when entertaining family and friends.

The original kitchen, already relatively small, seemed even smaller from the dropped ceiling shown in the Before photo. The two major structural changes were to remove the dropped ceiling and to also remove the intruding partial wall on the right. The new modern cabinets, with a beautiful wood finish, provide updated internal storage, such as drawers and pull-out bins. The new hardware and lighting fixtures not only provide a beautiful look, but also make the kitchen better illuminated and more efficient. The granite tile backsplash is set with copper colored grout, which brings out the copper flecks inn the granite countertops.

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/

Roll Shield for doors and windows offer security, privacy, and energy savings! Our Security Shutters mount outside your home or business, and operate from the inside, offering 100% light, sun, and UV ray blockage. With aluminum-walled slats injection-filled with foam, your home or business is provided protection against intruders, as well as noise insulation. In addition, you can watch your energy bills decrease up to 20% with the R4 insulating quality of these sturdy slat packs. With Outerware For Windows Roll Shields installed, you can feel secure that your home is locked while you are away. The versatility offered with Rolling Shutters allows you to enclose your patio for that extra room or storage space. Outerware For Windows Retractable Security Shutter can be wall switch or remote-controlled, in addition, to manually operated. A battery backup or crank override system ensures the Security Shutters are fully operational in the event of a power failure or emergency.

This 'follow-the-roof-pitch' overhead full-view garage door is accented with customized hardware to complement the room's stunning chandelier. This Austin 'man cave' required a unique installation where the door did not intrude into the living area. The door follows the roof line to create maximum space, air and light into the room, allowing the owner to entertain friends and family with ease. Note the special mounting hardware. The door was custom-built and expertly installed by Cedar Park Overhead Doors, which has been serving the greater Austin area for more than 30 years. Photo credit: Jenn Leaver

Antique oriental carpets were the inspiration, with all finishes chosen to coordinate. Furniture and materials were chosen for comfort, beauty and durability. High ceilings demanded appropriate scale; glass-topped tables function without intruding. The living room stepdown tripping hazards are marked with a walnut floor transition. Window treatments were chosen to give a finished appearance without obscuring the view, or inviting cat interference. Photographer - Eric Taylor

Custom Entry Doors in the St. Louis Area Your doors play a crucial twofold role in your home: to make a welcoming first impression on your guests and to keep your family safe from intruders and harsh weather elements alike. Striking the perfect balance of form and function doesn't have to be difficult, however! At Integrity Home Solutions, we have a comprehensive range of attractive and durable replacement doors that will perfectly compliment your home. With boosted thermal efficiency, security and curbside appeal this is one home improvement option that is too good to pass up!

Whole-house remodel and addition. Our clients love gardening and bought this house for its unusually large yard and privacy. We added a large family room, kitchen and master suite which are all designed to feel surrounded by the garden, and to create good outdoor places, while not intruding too much into the garden. Sightlines through the house are an important driver of the design. High clerestory windows of several types give a sense of connection to the sky as well, and integrate with vaulted ceilings of various shapes. The house is a mix of styles and types of materials, full of color and whimsy. Saikley Architects worked closely with the clients to shape the space and to allow for the clients’ choices beautiful materials inside and outside. The house is heated by a radiant hydronic system.

Trendy l-shaped light wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in San Francisco with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, stainless steel appliances and an island

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/

It all started with an unwelcome surprise for these homeowners: stray Lego down the shower drain. Without any other reasonable way to access second-story plumbing, the fiberglass shower had to be removed to make repairs. At that point, the owners figured they might as well take advantage of the opportunity to update their bathroom. A clever (and money saving) design called for replacing the seldom-used spa tub with a new tile shower. By angling the shower just right, the existing window did not need to be abandoned and now continues to provide natural light and a pleasant view. The custom tile shower is luxurious and spacious, complete with a clear glass enclosure, niche, rainfall shower head and handheld wands. We also made doubly sure the new shower drain would block any future Lego intruders!

This photo shows my final design of the addition. An element I worked into my final design was the protruding second floor of the addition. This is opposite of the intruding porch on the original house

Inspiration for a large timeless red three-story brick exterior home remodel in New York with a hip roof