Search results for "Maximizing productivity" in Home Design Ideas

THE SETUP
While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance. The client wanted a comfortable and classy gender-neutral design that would retain its updated look and have broad appeal for eventual resale.
Design Objectives:
Create a spacious, luxurious shower enclosure
Incorporate ample storage for towels, linens and an extensive hair care collection
Embrace a transitional design style that blends contemporary and classic elements
Establish a harmonious color palette that complements the home’s new black window frames
Ensure a future-proof design to maximize resale potential
Design Challenges:
Integrating a spacious shower within the existing layout
Ensuring accessible towel and robe storage near the shower and tub areas
Providing ample lighting and mirror space without cluttering the vanity area
Finding dedicated storage for hair care essentials and accessories
Maximizing linen storage while minimizing clutter
Decluttering the tub niche area
Tall angled ceiling almost too dramatic
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Frameless glass shower enclosure with a recessed niche (in the half wall) for body care products
Strategically placed robe/towel hooks on shower glass facing shower and tub
Illuminated, oversized mirrors with integrated lighting
Multiple large pull-out drawers with electrical outlets in the vanity
Dedicated base cabinet with countertop for towel/linen storage and decor
Single, spacious tub niche for products and decorative accents
Subtle horizontal trim lines at standard ceiling height to visually ground the space
This primary bathroom remodel seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to the client’s discerning taste while ensuring adaptability for future needs. The harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic design elements, coupled with innovative storage solutions and thoughtful lighting choices, creates a timeless sanctuary that exudes elegance and comfort.

SPLASH CHAIR
Furniture – Outdoor
Product Dimensions (IN): L65” x W22” x H29”
Product Weight (LB): 39
Product Dimensions (CM): L165” x W56” x H74”
Product Weight (KG): 18
Splash Chair is, as its name suggests, a splash of brightness and bold design in outdoor furniture. Made to maximize comfort and relaxation in any outdoor setting, Splash’s modern construction capitalizes on curves that allude to the sea.
A streamlined composition that deftly evolves from the upper concave curve and headrest, the centre curve for the lower part of the body, and a convex dip to a smooth finish, Splash also contains, as part of its structure, a functional base. Offering a simple solution for water drainage, while providing a supporting foundation for the structure to steady itself on a solid, flat surface, this perfect patio chair is designed for outdoor hotel, lounge, restaurant, and bar events and functions.
Available in 43 colours, Splash will definitely make a splash, poolside, with its colourful and contemporary appearance.
By Decorpro Home + Garden.
Each sold separately.
Materials:
Fiberglass resin
Gel coat (custom colours)
Meridian Table is custom made to order.
Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.
Made in Canada
ABOUT
WARRANTY
ANTI-SHOCK
WEATHERPROOF
LIGHTWEIGHT

THE SETUP
While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance. The client wanted a comfortable and classy gender-neutral design that would retain its updated look and have broad appeal for eventual resale.
Design Objectives:
Create a spacious, luxurious shower enclosure
Incorporate ample storage for towels, linens and an extensive hair care collection
Embrace a transitional design style that blends contemporary and classic elements
Establish a harmonious color palette that complements the home’s new black window frames
Ensure a future-proof design to maximize resale potential
Design Challenges:
Integrating a spacious shower within the existing layout
Ensuring accessible towel and robe storage near the shower and tub areas
Providing ample lighting and mirror space without cluttering the vanity area
Finding dedicated storage for hair care essentials and accessories
Maximizing linen storage while minimizing clutter
Decluttering the tub niche area
Tall angled ceiling almost too dramatic
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Frameless glass shower enclosure with a recessed niche (in the half wall) for body care products
Strategically placed robe/towel hooks on shower glass facing shower and tub
Illuminated, oversized mirrors with integrated lighting
Multiple large pull-out drawers with electrical outlets in the vanity
Dedicated base cabinet with countertop for towel/linen storage and decor
Single, spacious tub niche for products and decorative accents
Subtle horizontal trim lines at standard ceiling height to visually ground the space
This primary bathroom remodel seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to the client’s discerning taste while ensuring adaptability for future needs. The harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic design elements, coupled with innovative storage solutions and thoughtful lighting choices, creates a timeless sanctuary that exudes elegance and comfort.
Find the right local pro for your project

Small-Space Tip #8: Free Up Surfaces -- “Think beyond surface space,” says Andrew about compact apartment living. “Sconces can easily replace bedside lamps, as the pair did here. Things get cluttered really quickly in a small space, so maximize vertical areas wherever you can.”

THE SETUP
While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance. The client wanted a comfortable and classy gender-neutral design that would retain its updated look and have broad appeal for eventual resale.
Design Objectives:
Create a spacious, luxurious shower enclosure
Incorporate ample storage for towels, linens and an extensive hair care collection
Embrace a transitional design style that blends contemporary and classic elements
Establish a harmonious color palette that complements the home’s new black window frames
Ensure a future-proof design to maximize resale potential
Design Challenges:
Integrating a spacious shower within the existing layout
Ensuring accessible towel and robe storage near the shower and tub areas
Providing ample lighting and mirror space without cluttering the vanity area
Finding dedicated storage for hair care essentials and accessories
Maximizing linen storage while minimizing clutter
Decluttering the tub niche area
Tall angled ceiling almost too dramatic
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Frameless glass shower enclosure with a recessed niche (in the half wall) for body care products
Strategically placed robe/towel hooks on shower glass facing shower and tub
Illuminated, oversized mirrors with integrated lighting
Multiple large pull-out drawers with electrical outlets in the vanity
Dedicated base cabinet with countertop for towel/linen storage and decor
Single, spacious tub niche for products and decorative accents
Subtle horizontal trim lines at standard ceiling height to visually ground the space
This primary bathroom remodel seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to the client’s discerning taste while ensuring adaptability for future needs. The harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic design elements, coupled with innovative storage solutions and thoughtful lighting choices, creates a timeless sanctuary that exudes elegance and comfort.

Nestled in the lush landscape, a modern reinterpretation of a once-fallen barn now features a charming guest cottage with stylish details and contemporary amenities. Situated along a narrow lot in Germantown, New York, the cottage completes a cluster of existing buildings, forming an intimate courtyard on one side. Steel effect folding patio doors fully open the living areas to the expansive fields and the Catskill Mountains beyond.
The homeowners, a young family with parents living abroad, envisioned a cozy yet modern ADU for extended stays. Designed by Lauren Cawse, AIA, architect and partner at The Art of Building, the year-round retreat draws inspiration from traditional local barns while embracing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Captivating Guest Cottage Design Enhances the Senses with Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors
The modern ADU design started with the site itself. Positioned between residential and commercial neighbors, the elongated property required a careful balance of privacy and openness. Architect Lauren Cawse approached the layout by redefining the existing house and garage as the east and west sides of an outdoor room, with the new cottage forming its southern boundary. This arrangement created a clear courtyard near the main residence while directing the 800-square-foot guest house toward the open meadow and the distant Catskill Mountains.
“The unique character of the site and its history inspired the architectural direction,” says Cawse. “The intent was to create a secondary structure in the compound in clear contrast to the modern farmhouse style of the house and garage.”
A Barn-Inspired Exterior Adds Visual Flair
The exterior envelope evokes a traditional barn with a simple gable shape, weathered wood siding, cedar shingles, and a foundation veneer made of local fieldstone. A large sliding barn door adds a complementary feature to the courtyard-facing side, creating a dynamic opening that maintains uninterrupted views through the cottage to the meadow beyond.
Steel effect folding patio doors surrounding the structure add a modern touch of transparency, and simulated divided lites allow the contemporary glass wall systems to harmonize with the traditional elements of the modern ADU design.
“The goal was to fully open the living areas to the outdoors, framing views to the meadows and mountains,” says Cawse. “The positioning of the NanaWall systems frames the views and, when open, dissolves the boundary between inside and out.”
Interior Design That Mirrors Nature’s Tranquility
Inside, the design program features a simple layout with one bedroom, a full bath, a kitchenette, and a living area with a wood-burning stove. The interior, a collaboration between The Art of Building and the homeowners, is defined by an understated palette and tactile materials that reflect the natural setting. Color is introduced through the framed glass views on all sides of the structure. Reclaimed timber collar ties span the ceiling overhead, while stone surfaces and naturally patinated metal accents add quiet texture throughout.
Custom hand-painted Delft tiles along the kitchen backsplash add personal detail, and terra cotta flooring in the bathroom brings warmth and old-world charm. Soaring ceilings and abundant daylight create a peaceful play of light and shadow, shifting subtly with the seasons and emphasizing the cottage’s connection to the natural landscape outside.
Sleek Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors Elevate the Modern ADU Design Aesthetic
Three customized steel effect folding patio doors define the living space, each aligned to respond to a different edge of the site. The largest, spanning nearly 20 feet wide and just under eight feet tall, opens directly onto the stone patio, allowing the main gathering area to extend fully into the landscape. Along the side of the living room, a smaller 10-foot-wide system introduces more light and ventilation, nearly creating an open corner condition if not for the structural post that supports the façade and roofline.
At the rear, a fourth ten-foot-wide system features a French door swing panel configuration that opens toward the courtyard, strengthening the design connection to the main residence. All steel effect folding patio doors were specified with a low-maintenance, water-rated Performance Sill to safeguard against inclement weather while providing a seamless, barrier-free transition to the outdoor patio.
Unique Customizations for Visual Appeal and a Steel Effect
Each folding patio door system is configured to open outward, maximizing usable floor space in the compact interior and allowing furniture placement to remain uninterrupted. By stacking outward, the steel effect folding patio doors, specified in a SE Classic Bronze powder coat, ensure every inch of the cottage is optimized. Simulated divided lites create a consistent rhythm across windows and doors, maintaining alignment with the traditional barn-inspired exterior.
In the bedroom, a three-panel, 10-foot-wide system mirrors these customizations, matching the steel effect divided-lite pattern and outward-opening configuration, extending the indoor-outdoor connection while preserving visual continuity throughout the ADU.
“The divided lites were crucial to the architectural vision, and while budget prohibited a steel and glass system, NanaWall Systems’ thin frames provide the open and airy feeling we hoped to attain,” says Cawse. “Simulated divided lites transition the thoroughly modern element of the glass walls to remain in harmony with the otherwise traditional palette.”
Matching Windows and Doors: Create a Cohesive Design Program
Alongside the larger openings in the living areas and bedroom, a smaller 3-foot-tall NanaWall tilt turn window was added to the bathroom. This window-sized NanaWall system perfectly matches the divided lite panels and sleek frames of the steel effect folding patio doors, creating a cohesive modern ADU design throughout. The compact opening provides ventilation and natural light, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere along with natural stone flooring. The matching glass lines and sleek profiles of the NanaWall Generation 4 comprehensive product line further unify visual consistency, allowing each system to fit into the architectural style seamlessly.
“This project had three bifold glass walls, a pair of double French doors with sidelites, and a single tilt turn window,” says architect Lauren Cawse. “Being able to work with a single manufacturer provided aesthetic cohesiveness and simplified coordination.”
Sustainability Where It Matters Most
New York weather can vary from hot 85-degree summers to cold 26-degree winters. Creating an efficient living space was a primary goal. To achieve this, the design included Timber HP-insulated walls and floors with a heat pump system for effective heating and cooling. Additionally, the steel effect folding patio doors and windows were specified with double-glazed panels to ensure a tight building envelope.
Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Relaxing and Entertaining
In-house landscape designer Liz Pulver worked closely with the team to conceive open-air spaces that enhanced the connection between inside and outside. To the south end of the lot, the landscape transitions into an “enhanced meadow,” allowing the cottage to feel embedded within the surrounding fields rather than set apart from them. A circular pool was designed to mimic a natural pond with a modest footprint. Around it, a minimalist fence and sunken stone ha-ha wall offer discreet safety for young children.
Limited space due to existing infrastructure and zoning setbacks left only a small footprint for the swimming pool, prompting the designer to propose a circular form that maximized the usable swimming area. “We felt that the perfect way to integrate a pool into the property and to honor the landscape would be to treat the pool as a piece of art itself,” says Pulver. “The result is a beautiful round pool that serves as both a functional retreat and a sculptural moment.”
Final Thoughts: A Barn-Inspired Design for Contemporary Living
This modern ADU design skillfully combines modern features with the enduring charm of traditional barns. The outcome is a welcoming living space that stands out amid a stunning landscape. Natural materials that mimic the beauty of the outdoors, expansive steel effect folding patio doors that fill the space with fresh air and natural light, and a restrained interior design work together to create an inviting retreat for everyday living, throughout the seasons.
“When entering the site, the cottage feels as though it was always there,” says Cawse. “It achieves its two opposing goals by creating a feeling of intimacy and enclosure near the house while also functioning as a threshold to the expansive fields and views beyond.”
Explore how NanaWall folding patio doors elevate other ADU spaces in our inspiring project photo gallery!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Slimline Steel Effect?
Steel Effect is a folding patio door design option that replicates the appearance of traditional steel-framed glass doors. It combines the look of steel with the performance benefits of aluminum, including energy efficiency, low maintenance, greater design flexibility, and lower cost.
How does a NanaWall Steel Effect aluminum system compare to traditional steel-framed glass doors?
NanaWall Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors replicate the narrow frames of traditional steel doors with improved weather and thermal performance and easier operation. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and feature a thermally broken design for better energy efficiency and lower long-term maintenance.
What are the benefits of Steel Effect folding glass walls?
Steel Effect folding glass walls deliver the narrow sightlines and grid patterns of traditional steel, combined with the performance and low maintenance of aluminum. The slimline steel effect option offers all the benefits of our Generation 4 product line, including the FourFold / SixFold floating panel set option and smooth operation with Gothic arch stainless steel rollers on a stainless steel track.
Can Slimline Steel Effect glass walls be customized?
Yes, these systems offer a high level of customization to suit different architectural styles, including simulated divided lites specified in various patterns, popular SE colors for a true steel effect look, and a contemporary glass stop option for a refined look. Contact your local NanaWall representative for additional options here.
How energy-efficient and weather-resistant are Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors?
Steel effect folding systems are engineered for strong thermal and weather performance. Thermally broken frames and high-performance glazing help improve energy efficiency. Each NanaWall system has been independently tested for air, water, structural integrity, and forced entry with excellent results.

SPLASH CHAIR
Furniture – Outdoor
Product Dimensions (IN): L65” x W22” x H29”
Product Weight (LB): 39
Product Dimensions (CM): L165” x W56” x H74”
Product Weight (KG): 18
Splash Chair is, as its name suggests, a splash of brightness and bold design in outdoor furniture. Made to maximize comfort and relaxation in any outdoor setting, Splash’s modern construction capitalizes on curves that allude to the sea.
A streamlined composition that deftly evolves from the upper concave curve and headrest, the centre curve for the lower part of the body, and a convex dip to a smooth finish, Splash also contains, as part of its structure, a functional base. Offering a simple solution for water drainage, while providing a supporting foundation for the structure to steady itself on a solid, flat surface, this perfect patio chair is designed for outdoor hotel, lounge, restaurant, and bar events and functions.
Available in 43 colours, Splash will definitely make a splash, poolside, with its colourful and contemporary appearance.
By Decorpro Home + Garden.
Each sold separately.
Materials:
Fiberglass resin
Gel coat (custom colours)
Meridian Table is custom made to order.
Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.
Made in Canada
ABOUT
WARRANTY
ANTI-SHOCK
WEATHERPROOF
LIGHTWEIGHT

THE SETUP
While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance. The client wanted a comfortable and classy gender-neutral design that would retain its updated look and have broad appeal for eventual resale.
Design Objectives:
Create a spacious, luxurious shower enclosure
Incorporate ample storage for towels, linens and an extensive hair care collection
Embrace a transitional design style that blends contemporary and classic elements
Establish a harmonious color palette that complements the home’s new black window frames
Ensure a future-proof design to maximize resale potential
Design Challenges:
Integrating a spacious shower within the existing layout
Ensuring accessible towel and robe storage near the shower and tub areas
Providing ample lighting and mirror space without cluttering the vanity area
Finding dedicated storage for hair care essentials and accessories
Maximizing linen storage while minimizing clutter
Decluttering the tub niche area
Tall angled ceiling almost too dramatic
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Frameless glass shower enclosure with a recessed niche (in the half wall) for body care products
Strategically placed robe/towel hooks on shower glass facing shower and tub
Illuminated, oversized mirrors with integrated lighting
Multiple large pull-out drawers with electrical outlets in the vanity
Dedicated base cabinet with countertop for towel/linen storage and decor
Single, spacious tub niche for products and decorative accents
Subtle horizontal trim lines at standard ceiling height to visually ground the space
This primary bathroom remodel seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to the client’s discerning taste while ensuring adaptability for future needs. The harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic design elements, coupled with innovative storage solutions and thoughtful lighting choices, creates a timeless sanctuary that exudes elegance and comfort.

VIENNA CELL FIREBURNER (DIA30” X H48.75”)
Planter Fireburners
Product Dimensions (IN): DIA 30” X H 48.75”
Product Weight (LB): 95
Product Dimensions (CM): DIA 76.2 X H 78.1
Product Weight (KG): 43
Vienna Cell Fireburner (DIA30” X H48.75”) combines two distinctly individual decorative pieces—the Vienna Planter (DIA30” X H30.75”) and the Cell Tabletop Fireburner.
Made of fiberglass resin and finished in a gel coat, the Vienna Planter is a perfect complement to the Cell’s tempered glass, linear composition. Traditionally round in shape, the planter also boasts a height that adds to the boldness of the combined structure.
Glamorous and grand, Vienna Cell Fireburner is a welcome addition at the front door of a hotel lobby, its natural flame displaying a sepia-toned brightness from within its glass surround. For a bold outdoor look, situate two of these statement pieces at the base of a stairway to a deck. They will at once light the way, their presence also decorative accent pieces.
Available in 43 colours, for a neutral appearance in a front foyer, the Vienna Cell Fireburner in Light Grey is a versatile and complementary option. To maximize the look of this Planter Fireburner combination in an indoor setting, and for a bold pop of brightness in a contemporary space, consider Spanish Gold or Viper Red.
By Decorpro Home + Garden.
Each sold separately.
Vienna Planter (DIA30” X H30.75”) included.
Cell included.
Snuffer included.
Mounting Plate included.
Hardware included.
Fuel sold separately.
Materials:
Vienna Planter (DIA30” X H30.75”) (fiberglass resin, gel coat, custom colours)
Cell (8mm tempered glass, solid steel, black epoxy powder paint)
Snuffer (galvanized steel)
Mounting Plate (solid steel, black epoxy powder paint)
Hardware (steel)
All Planter Fireburners are custom made to order.
Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.
Made in Canada
ABOUT
PLANTER WARRANTY
ANTI-SHOCK
WEATHERPROOF
DRAINAGE HOLES AND PLUGS
INNER LIP
LIGHTWEIGHT

THE SETUP
While the existing layout wasn’t inherently flawed, this primary bathroom felt outdated and lacked the desired aesthetic appeal for our client. The goal was to revitalize the space, catering to her refined taste while ensuring a bright, inviting ambiance. The client wanted a comfortable and classy gender-neutral design that would retain its updated look and have broad appeal for eventual resale.
Design Objectives:
Create a spacious, luxurious shower enclosure
Incorporate ample storage for towels, linens and an extensive hair care collection
Embrace a transitional design style that blends contemporary and classic elements
Establish a harmonious color palette that complements the home’s new black window frames
Ensure a future-proof design to maximize resale potential
Design Challenges:
Integrating a spacious shower within the existing layout
Ensuring accessible towel and robe storage near the shower and tub areas
Providing ample lighting and mirror space without cluttering the vanity area
Finding dedicated storage for hair care essentials and accessories
Maximizing linen storage while minimizing clutter
Decluttering the tub niche area
Tall angled ceiling almost too dramatic
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Frameless glass shower enclosure with a recessed niche (in the half wall) for body care products
Strategically placed robe/towel hooks on shower glass facing shower and tub
Illuminated, oversized mirrors with integrated lighting
Multiple large pull-out drawers with electrical outlets in the vanity
Dedicated base cabinet with countertop for towel/linen storage and decor
Single, spacious tub niche for products and decorative accents
Subtle horizontal trim lines at standard ceiling height to visually ground the space
This primary bathroom remodel seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to the client’s discerning taste while ensuring adaptability for future needs. The harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic design elements, coupled with innovative storage solutions and thoughtful lighting choices, creates a timeless sanctuary that exudes elegance and comfort.

Reclaimed Heart Pine Treads and Risers -
Excelsior Wood Products, LLC is a full service mill and lumber supplier specializing in antique and reclaimed wood. We have the capacity to produce and ship reclaimed flooring, custom moldings, custom siding, decking, sawn and hand hewn beams, architectural millwork and a wide range of other specialty wood products to customers across the United States. As a custom mill, we also have the flexibility to produce products made from just about any type of wood, to your exact specifications.
We offer flooring at a variety of widths and lengths ... unfinished or prefinished with VOC free materials. We offer original face and textured finishes. We mill to 3/4" with an extra thick wear layer to ensure longevity and durability. We inspect every board to maximize usability and remove unsound defects. Our custom flooring is precision milled tongue and groove including back relieved.
Our mission: "Deliver the highest quality natural material, along with excellent personal customer service.”
Please feel free to visit our website www.excelsiorwood.com, call (845) 339-6630 or email christina@excelsiorwood.com, come tour our facility or let us bring samples to you.

SPLASH CHAIR
Furniture – Outdoor
Product Dimensions (IN): L65” x W22” x H29”
Product Weight (LB): 39
Product Dimensions (CM): L165” x W56” x H74”
Product Weight (KG): 18
Splash Chair is, as its name suggests, a splash of brightness and bold design in outdoor furniture. Made to maximize comfort and relaxation in any outdoor setting, Splash’s modern construction capitalizes on curves that allude to the sea.
A streamlined composition that deftly evolves from the upper concave curve and headrest, the centre curve for the lower part of the body, and a convex dip to a smooth finish, Splash also contains, as part of its structure, a functional base. Offering a simple solution for water drainage, while providing a supporting foundation for the structure to steady itself on a solid, flat surface, this perfect patio chair is designed for outdoor hotel, lounge, restaurant, and bar events and functions.
Available in 43 colours, Splash will definitely make a splash, poolside, with its colourful and contemporary appearance.
By Decorpro Home + Garden.
Each sold separately.
Materials:
Fiberglass resin
Gel coat (custom colours)
Meridian Table is custom made to order.
Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.
Made in Canada
ABOUT
WARRANTY
ANTI-SHOCK
WEATHERPROOF
LIGHTWEIGHT

Nestled in the lush landscape, a modern reinterpretation of a once-fallen barn now features a charming guest cottage with stylish details and contemporary amenities. Situated along a narrow lot in Germantown, New York, the cottage completes a cluster of existing buildings, forming an intimate courtyard on one side. Steel effect folding patio doors fully open the living areas to the expansive fields and the Catskill Mountains beyond.
The homeowners, a young family with parents living abroad, envisioned a cozy yet modern ADU for extended stays. Designed by Lauren Cawse, AIA, architect and partner at The Art of Building, the year-round retreat draws inspiration from traditional local barns while embracing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Captivating Guest Cottage Design Enhances the Senses with Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors
The modern ADU design started with the site itself. Positioned between residential and commercial neighbors, the elongated property required a careful balance of privacy and openness. Architect Lauren Cawse approached the layout by redefining the existing house and garage as the east and west sides of an outdoor room, with the new cottage forming its southern boundary. This arrangement created a clear courtyard near the main residence while directing the 800-square-foot guest house toward the open meadow and the distant Catskill Mountains.
“The unique character of the site and its history inspired the architectural direction,” says Cawse. “The intent was to create a secondary structure in the compound in clear contrast to the modern farmhouse style of the house and garage.”
A Barn-Inspired Exterior Adds Visual Flair
The exterior envelope evokes a traditional barn with a simple gable shape, weathered wood siding, cedar shingles, and a foundation veneer made of local fieldstone. A large sliding barn door adds a complementary feature to the courtyard-facing side, creating a dynamic opening that maintains uninterrupted views through the cottage to the meadow beyond.
Steel effect folding patio doors surrounding the structure add a modern touch of transparency, and simulated divided lites allow the contemporary glass wall systems to harmonize with the traditional elements of the modern ADU design.
“The goal was to fully open the living areas to the outdoors, framing views to the meadows and mountains,” says Cawse. “The positioning of the NanaWall systems frames the views and, when open, dissolves the boundary between inside and out.”
Interior Design That Mirrors Nature’s Tranquility
Inside, the design program features a simple layout with one bedroom, a full bath, a kitchenette, and a living area with a wood-burning stove. The interior, a collaboration between The Art of Building and the homeowners, is defined by an understated palette and tactile materials that reflect the natural setting. Color is introduced through the framed glass views on all sides of the structure. Reclaimed timber collar ties span the ceiling overhead, while stone surfaces and naturally patinated metal accents add quiet texture throughout.
Custom hand-painted Delft tiles along the kitchen backsplash add personal detail, and terra cotta flooring in the bathroom brings warmth and old-world charm. Soaring ceilings and abundant daylight create a peaceful play of light and shadow, shifting subtly with the seasons and emphasizing the cottage’s connection to the natural landscape outside.
Sleek Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors Elevate the Modern ADU Design Aesthetic
Three customized steel effect folding patio doors define the living space, each aligned to respond to a different edge of the site. The largest, spanning nearly 20 feet wide and just under eight feet tall, opens directly onto the stone patio, allowing the main gathering area to extend fully into the landscape. Along the side of the living room, a smaller 10-foot-wide system introduces more light and ventilation, nearly creating an open corner condition if not for the structural post that supports the façade and roofline.
At the rear, a fourth ten-foot-wide system features a French door swing panel configuration that opens toward the courtyard, strengthening the design connection to the main residence. All steel effect folding patio doors were specified with a low-maintenance, water-rated Performance Sill to safeguard against inclement weather while providing a seamless, barrier-free transition to the outdoor patio.
Unique Customizations for Visual Appeal and a Steel Effect
Each folding patio door system is configured to open outward, maximizing usable floor space in the compact interior and allowing furniture placement to remain uninterrupted. By stacking outward, the steel effect folding patio doors, specified in a SE Classic Bronze powder coat, ensure every inch of the cottage is optimized. Simulated divided lites create a consistent rhythm across windows and doors, maintaining alignment with the traditional barn-inspired exterior.
In the bedroom, a three-panel, 10-foot-wide system mirrors these customizations, matching the steel effect divided-lite pattern and outward-opening configuration, extending the indoor-outdoor connection while preserving visual continuity throughout the ADU.
“The divided lites were crucial to the architectural vision, and while budget prohibited a steel and glass system, NanaWall Systems’ thin frames provide the open and airy feeling we hoped to attain,” says Cawse. “Simulated divided lites transition the thoroughly modern element of the glass walls to remain in harmony with the otherwise traditional palette.”
Matching Windows and Doors: Create a Cohesive Design Program
Alongside the larger openings in the living areas and bedroom, a smaller 3-foot-tall NanaWall tilt turn window was added to the bathroom. This window-sized NanaWall system perfectly matches the divided lite panels and sleek frames of the steel effect folding patio doors, creating a cohesive modern ADU design throughout. The compact opening provides ventilation and natural light, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere along with natural stone flooring. The matching glass lines and sleek profiles of the NanaWall Generation 4 comprehensive product line further unify visual consistency, allowing each system to fit into the architectural style seamlessly.
“This project had three bifold glass walls, a pair of double French doors with sidelites, and a single tilt turn window,” says architect Lauren Cawse. “Being able to work with a single manufacturer provided aesthetic cohesiveness and simplified coordination.”
Sustainability Where It Matters Most
New York weather can vary from hot 85-degree summers to cold 26-degree winters. Creating an efficient living space was a primary goal. To achieve this, the design included Timber HP-insulated walls and floors with a heat pump system for effective heating and cooling. Additionally, the steel effect folding patio doors and windows were specified with double-glazed panels to ensure a tight building envelope.
Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Relaxing and Entertaining
In-house landscape designer Liz Pulver worked closely with the team to conceive open-air spaces that enhanced the connection between inside and outside. To the south end of the lot, the landscape transitions into an “enhanced meadow,” allowing the cottage to feel embedded within the surrounding fields rather than set apart from them. A circular pool was designed to mimic a natural pond with a modest footprint. Around it, a minimalist fence and sunken stone ha-ha wall offer discreet safety for young children.
Limited space due to existing infrastructure and zoning setbacks left only a small footprint for the swimming pool, prompting the designer to propose a circular form that maximized the usable swimming area. “We felt that the perfect way to integrate a pool into the property and to honor the landscape would be to treat the pool as a piece of art itself,” says Pulver. “The result is a beautiful round pool that serves as both a functional retreat and a sculptural moment.”
Final Thoughts: A Barn-Inspired Design for Contemporary Living
This modern ADU design skillfully combines modern features with the enduring charm of traditional barns. The outcome is a welcoming living space that stands out amid a stunning landscape. Natural materials that mimic the beauty of the outdoors, expansive steel effect folding patio doors that fill the space with fresh air and natural light, and a restrained interior design work together to create an inviting retreat for everyday living, throughout the seasons.
“When entering the site, the cottage feels as though it was always there,” says Cawse. “It achieves its two opposing goals by creating a feeling of intimacy and enclosure near the house while also functioning as a threshold to the expansive fields and views beyond.”
Explore how NanaWall folding patio doors elevate other ADU spaces in our inspiring project photo gallery!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Slimline Steel Effect?
Steel Effect is a folding patio door design option that replicates the appearance of traditional steel-framed glass doors. It combines the look of steel with the performance benefits of aluminum, including energy efficiency, low maintenance, greater design flexibility, and lower cost.
How does a NanaWall Steel Effect aluminum system compare to traditional steel-framed glass doors?
NanaWall Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors replicate the narrow frames of traditional steel doors with improved weather and thermal performance and easier operation. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and feature a thermally broken design for better energy efficiency and lower long-term maintenance.
What are the benefits of Steel Effect folding glass walls?
Steel Effect folding glass walls deliver the narrow sightlines and grid patterns of traditional steel, combined with the performance and low maintenance of aluminum. The slimline steel effect option offers all the benefits of our Generation 4 product line, including the FourFold / SixFold floating panel set option and smooth operation with Gothic arch stainless steel rollers on a stainless steel track.
Can Slimline Steel Effect glass walls be customized?
Yes, these systems offer a high level of customization to suit different architectural styles, including simulated divided lites specified in various patterns, popular SE colors for a true steel effect look, and a contemporary glass stop option for a refined look. Contact your local NanaWall representative for additional options here.
How energy-efficient and weather-resistant are Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors?
Steel effect folding systems are engineered for strong thermal and weather performance. Thermally broken frames and high-performance glazing help improve energy efficiency. Each NanaWall system has been independently tested for air, water, structural integrity, and forced entry with excellent results.

Reclaimed Heart Pine Flooring - and custom dining table-
Excelsior Wood Products, LLC is a full service mill and lumber supplier specializing in antique and reclaimed wood. We have the capacity to produce and ship reclaimed flooring, custom moldings, custom siding, decking, sawn and hand hewn beams, architectural millwork and a wide range of other specialty wood products to customers across the United States. As a custom mill, we also have the flexibility to produce products made from just about any type of wood, to your exact specifications.
We offer flooring at a variety of widths and lengths ... unfinished or prefinished with VOC free materials. We offer original face and textured finishes. We mill to 3/4" with an extra thick wear layer to ensure longevity and durability. We inspect every board to maximize usability and remove unsound defects. Our custom flooring is precision milled tongue and groove including back relieved.
Our mission: "Deliver the highest quality natural material, along with excellent personal customer service.”
Please feel free to visit our website www.excelsiorwood.com, call (845) 339-6630 or email christina@excelsiorwood.com, come tour our facility or let us bring samples to you.

Nestled in the lush landscape, a modern reinterpretation of a once-fallen barn now features a charming guest cottage with stylish details and contemporary amenities. Situated along a narrow lot in Germantown, New York, the cottage completes a cluster of existing buildings, forming an intimate courtyard on one side. Steel effect folding patio doors fully open the living areas to the expansive fields and the Catskill Mountains beyond.
The homeowners, a young family with parents living abroad, envisioned a cozy yet modern ADU for extended stays. Designed by Lauren Cawse, AIA, architect and partner at The Art of Building, the year-round retreat draws inspiration from traditional local barns while embracing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Captivating Guest Cottage Design Enhances the Senses with Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors
The modern ADU design started with the site itself. Positioned between residential and commercial neighbors, the elongated property required a careful balance of privacy and openness. Architect Lauren Cawse approached the layout by redefining the existing house and garage as the east and west sides of an outdoor room, with the new cottage forming its southern boundary. This arrangement created a clear courtyard near the main residence while directing the 800-square-foot guest house toward the open meadow and the distant Catskill Mountains.
“The unique character of the site and its history inspired the architectural direction,” says Cawse. “The intent was to create a secondary structure in the compound in clear contrast to the modern farmhouse style of the house and garage.”
A Barn-Inspired Exterior Adds Visual Flair
The exterior envelope evokes a traditional barn with a simple gable shape, weathered wood siding, cedar shingles, and a foundation veneer made of local fieldstone. A large sliding barn door adds a complementary feature to the courtyard-facing side, creating a dynamic opening that maintains uninterrupted views through the cottage to the meadow beyond.
Steel effect folding patio doors surrounding the structure add a modern touch of transparency, and simulated divided lites allow the contemporary glass wall systems to harmonize with the traditional elements of the modern ADU design.
“The goal was to fully open the living areas to the outdoors, framing views to the meadows and mountains,” says Cawse. “The positioning of the NanaWall systems frames the views and, when open, dissolves the boundary between inside and out.”
Interior Design That Mirrors Nature’s Tranquility
Inside, the design program features a simple layout with one bedroom, a full bath, a kitchenette, and a living area with a wood-burning stove. The interior, a collaboration between The Art of Building and the homeowners, is defined by an understated palette and tactile materials that reflect the natural setting. Color is introduced through the framed glass views on all sides of the structure. Reclaimed timber collar ties span the ceiling overhead, while stone surfaces and naturally patinated metal accents add quiet texture throughout.
Custom hand-painted Delft tiles along the kitchen backsplash add personal detail, and terra cotta flooring in the bathroom brings warmth and old-world charm. Soaring ceilings and abundant daylight create a peaceful play of light and shadow, shifting subtly with the seasons and emphasizing the cottage’s connection to the natural landscape outside.
Sleek Steel Effect Folding Patio Doors Elevate the Modern ADU Design Aesthetic
Three customized steel effect folding patio doors define the living space, each aligned to respond to a different edge of the site. The largest, spanning nearly 20 feet wide and just under eight feet tall, opens directly onto the stone patio, allowing the main gathering area to extend fully into the landscape. Along the side of the living room, a smaller 10-foot-wide system introduces more light and ventilation, nearly creating an open corner condition if not for the structural post that supports the façade and roofline.
At the rear, a fourth ten-foot-wide system features a French door swing panel configuration that opens toward the courtyard, strengthening the design connection to the main residence. All steel effect folding patio doors were specified with a low-maintenance, water-rated Performance Sill to safeguard against inclement weather while providing a seamless, barrier-free transition to the outdoor patio.
Unique Customizations for Visual Appeal and a Steel Effect
Each folding patio door system is configured to open outward, maximizing usable floor space in the compact interior and allowing furniture placement to remain uninterrupted. By stacking outward, the steel effect folding patio doors, specified in a SE Classic Bronze powder coat, ensure every inch of the cottage is optimized. Simulated divided lites create a consistent rhythm across windows and doors, maintaining alignment with the traditional barn-inspired exterior.
In the bedroom, a three-panel, 10-foot-wide system mirrors these customizations, matching the steel effect divided-lite pattern and outward-opening configuration, extending the indoor-outdoor connection while preserving visual continuity throughout the ADU.
“The divided lites were crucial to the architectural vision, and while budget prohibited a steel and glass system, NanaWall Systems’ thin frames provide the open and airy feeling we hoped to attain,” says Cawse. “Simulated divided lites transition the thoroughly modern element of the glass walls to remain in harmony with the otherwise traditional palette.”
Matching Windows and Doors: Create a Cohesive Design Program
Alongside the larger openings in the living areas and bedroom, a smaller 3-foot-tall NanaWall tilt turn window was added to the bathroom. This window-sized NanaWall system perfectly matches the divided lite panels and sleek frames of the steel effect folding patio doors, creating a cohesive modern ADU design throughout. The compact opening provides ventilation and natural light, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere along with natural stone flooring. The matching glass lines and sleek profiles of the NanaWall Generation 4 comprehensive product line further unify visual consistency, allowing each system to fit into the architectural style seamlessly.
“This project had three bifold glass walls, a pair of double French doors with sidelites, and a single tilt turn window,” says architect Lauren Cawse. “Being able to work with a single manufacturer provided aesthetic cohesiveness and simplified coordination.”
Sustainability Where It Matters Most
New York weather can vary from hot 85-degree summers to cold 26-degree winters. Creating an efficient living space was a primary goal. To achieve this, the design included Timber HP-insulated walls and floors with a heat pump system for effective heating and cooling. Additionally, the steel effect folding patio doors and windows were specified with double-glazed panels to ensure a tight building envelope.
Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces for Relaxing and Entertaining
In-house landscape designer Liz Pulver worked closely with the team to conceive open-air spaces that enhanced the connection between inside and outside. To the south end of the lot, the landscape transitions into an “enhanced meadow,” allowing the cottage to feel embedded within the surrounding fields rather than set apart from them. A circular pool was designed to mimic a natural pond with a modest footprint. Around it, a minimalist fence and sunken stone ha-ha wall offer discreet safety for young children.
Limited space due to existing infrastructure and zoning setbacks left only a small footprint for the swimming pool, prompting the designer to propose a circular form that maximized the usable swimming area. “We felt that the perfect way to integrate a pool into the property and to honor the landscape would be to treat the pool as a piece of art itself,” says Pulver. “The result is a beautiful round pool that serves as both a functional retreat and a sculptural moment.”
Final Thoughts: A Barn-Inspired Design for Contemporary Living
This modern ADU design skillfully combines modern features with the enduring charm of traditional barns. The outcome is a welcoming living space that stands out amid a stunning landscape. Natural materials that mimic the beauty of the outdoors, expansive steel effect folding patio doors that fill the space with fresh air and natural light, and a restrained interior design work together to create an inviting retreat for everyday living, throughout the seasons.
“When entering the site, the cottage feels as though it was always there,” says Cawse. “It achieves its two opposing goals by creating a feeling of intimacy and enclosure near the house while also functioning as a threshold to the expansive fields and views beyond.”
Explore how NanaWall folding patio doors elevate other ADU spaces in our inspiring project photo gallery!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Slimline Steel Effect?
Steel Effect is a folding patio door design option that replicates the appearance of traditional steel-framed glass doors. It combines the look of steel with the performance benefits of aluminum, including energy efficiency, low maintenance, greater design flexibility, and lower cost.
How does a NanaWall Steel Effect aluminum system compare to traditional steel-framed glass doors?
NanaWall Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors replicate the narrow frames of traditional steel doors with improved weather and thermal performance and easier operation. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and feature a thermally broken design for better energy efficiency and lower long-term maintenance.
What are the benefits of Steel Effect folding glass walls?
Steel Effect folding glass walls deliver the narrow sightlines and grid patterns of traditional steel, combined with the performance and low maintenance of aluminum. The slimline steel effect option offers all the benefits of our Generation 4 product line, including the FourFold / SixFold floating panel set option and smooth operation with Gothic arch stainless steel rollers on a stainless steel track.
Can Slimline Steel Effect glass walls be customized?
Yes, these systems offer a high level of customization to suit different architectural styles, including simulated divided lites specified in various patterns, popular SE colors for a true steel effect look, and a contemporary glass stop option for a refined look. Contact your local NanaWall representative for additional options here.
How energy-efficient and weather-resistant are Slimline Steel Effect folding patio doors?
Steel effect folding systems are engineered for strong thermal and weather performance. Thermally broken frames and high-performance glazing help improve energy efficiency. Each NanaWall system has been independently tested for air, water, structural integrity, and forced entry with excellent results.

This elegant white kitchen is brought to life using Showplace Wood Products Savannah Inset White Cabinets Doorstyle with a beaded frame in a soft cream paint. The doors have an applied molding detail that adds an old world charm and warmth. Golden crystal granite counter tops, pendant lighting fixtures, and sleek stainless steel kitchen appliances lend a rich elegance to this traditional kitchen design. In designing this condo kitchen we made sure to maximize every inch for both the cooks and the guests.
Elyse Hochstadt Paragon KB Studio

The residence’s parti is a contemporary adaptation of the ancient Roman courtyard house, allowing it to maximize energy efficiency through passive cooling and solar heating. The first floor terraces gracefully above the exterior grade, and the plan is focused around a central pool and courtyard that opens to an adjacent lake and prevailing breezes. The line between interior and exterior space is blurred by over 50 feet of Nana doors, which facilitate a refreshing flow of natural ventilation that exits the house through operable transom windows and the cupola tower.
Exterior colors and materials were selected to maximize heat reflectivity, and generous eave overhangs maximize shading
in the summer and heat gain in the winter. Materials, products and equipment were specified based on their exemplary environmental and efficiency attributes, and whenever possible local materials and craftsmen were used.
The residence is a Florida Green Building Commission certified Florida Green Home.

The residence’s parti is a contemporary adaptation of the ancient Roman courtyard house, allowing it to maximize energy efficiency through passive cooling and solar heating. The first floor terraces gracefully above the exterior grade, and the plan is focused around a central pool and courtyard that opens to an adjacent lake and prevailing breezes. The line between interior and exterior space is blurred by over 50 feet of Nana doors, which facilitate a refreshing flow of natural ventilation that exits the house through operable transom windows and the cupola tower.
Exterior colors and materials were selected to maximize heat reflectivity, and generous eave overhangs maximize shading
in the summer and heat gain in the winter. Materials, products and equipment were specified based on their exemplary environmental and efficiency attributes, and whenever possible local materials and craftsmen were used.
The residence is a Florida Green Building Commission certified Florida Green Home.

The residence’s parti is a contemporary adaptation of the ancient Roman courtyard house, allowing it to maximize energy efficiency through passive cooling and solar heating. The first floor terraces gracefully above the exterior grade, and the plan is focused around a central pool and courtyard that opens to an adjacent lake and prevailing breezes. The line between interior and exterior space is blurred by over 50 feet of Nana doors, which facilitate a refreshing flow of natural ventilation that exits the house through operable transom windows and the cupola tower.
Exterior colors and materials were selected to maximize heat reflectivity, and generous eave overhangs maximize shading
in the summer and heat gain in the winter. Materials, products and equipment were specified based on their exemplary environmental and efficiency attributes, and whenever possible local materials and craftsmen were used.
The residence is a Florida Green Building Commission certified Florida Green Home.
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