Mid-sized trendy screened-in back porch photo in Other with decking and a roof extension

The NanaWall system completely transforms the exterior aesthetically. Turning a garage into a comfortable home demands effort. To make the garage feel large enough, it would need to have flexible space with multiple functions, integrate the backyard with the interior, and create space for entertaining in a Southern California style. Cleverly, the primary architect on the project, Meg Fain of Overarch, used the outdoor area as part of the house, taking advantage of sunny Los Angeles weather. With the extra outdoor space, she’d place larger furniture outside and it would still feel like part of the home. To create an indoor/outdoor living situation, the architect knew she needed a large opening glass wall. A folding wall system is better than sliding walls for creating unobstructed openings, but even that wasn’t enough. A conventional bi-folding wall obstructs some of the traffic movement because panels stack in the opening and extend into the space. In a project this space-sensitive even slight obstruction wouldn’t work and would harm the “flow” of the indoor/outdoor connection. As a design professional that worked for other companies prior to the project, the architect was familiar with NanaWall Systems. When searching through the options of NanaWall systems, the architect and homeowners found their solution in a WD65 FoldFlat® system.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

Photography by Vittoria Zupicich
Trendy kitchen photo in San Francisco

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

2010 REGIONAL AWARD WINNER Built in 2000, this center hall colonial in Fairfax Station, Virginia had a kitchen that was neither functional nor aesthetically pleasing. First, the floor plan was poorly rationalized. The work triangle was inefficient, a large pantry took up too much floor space, and a series of railings between the kitchen and family room obstructed traffic flow. Aesthetically, the space was dated. Dutch cabinetry, floral wallpaper and a faux Victorian chandelier all cried for an update. Additionally, the homeowners wanted to incorporate high-end appliances and other amenities like a wine cooler and steam cooker. Overall, the owners were seeking to replace worn out-of-style kitchen with a substantially upgraded “open” facility that combines traditional and contemporary features configured to support multiple social and culinary needs. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, they decided to implement a series of strategic revisions that would support their new use goals. First, they removed an obstructive bearing wall between the existing kitchen and mudroom, creating a recessed niche for a new 48” gas range with custom hood. An unused desk taken out provided a spot for the new 48” two-drawer refrigerator/freezer. A custom-designed L-shaped granite-surfaced island with bar sink, icemaker and mini-drawer refrigerator takes center stage in the space and offers seating for six. Now the chef can entertain guests while preparing the meal. From an aesthetic point of view, the interior features are nothing less than stunning. Softly painted walls, decorative ceramic tile backsplashes and granite surfaces combine with custom made cabinets to create an elegant space. Antiqued soft-opaque cabinet facings, wood panel refrigerator door inserts, glass-facing display cabinets and a custom mantle range hood are true works of craftsmanship. Fine detail is expressed with flutes and corbels. Beauty is truly in the details of this award-winning kitchen.

Large windows in the dining room offer obstructed views of the mountains. The light fixture was custom designed to fit the scale of the room without obstructing the view. Photos: Vance Fox

custom exterior entryway built to customers specifications !! two 8 ft stain grade mahogany doors with decorative obstructed view beveled insulated tempered glass !! prehung in stain grade mahogany with oil rubbed bronze commercial grade hinges !! cincinatti ohio

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

2010 REGIONAL AWARD WINNER Built in 2000, this center hall colonial in Fairfax Station, Virginia had a kitchen that was neither functional nor aesthetically pleasing. First, the floor plan was poorly rationalized. The work triangle was inefficient, a large pantry took up too much floor space, and a series of railings between the kitchen and family room obstructed traffic flow. Aesthetically, the space was dated. Dutch cabinetry, floral wallpaper and a faux Victorian chandelier all cried for an update. Additionally, the homeowners wanted to incorporate high-end appliances and other amenities like a wine cooler and steam cooker. Overall, the owners were seeking to replace worn out-of-style kitchen with a substantially upgraded “open” facility that combines traditional and contemporary features configured to support multiple social and culinary needs. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, they decided to implement a series of strategic revisions that would support their new use goals. First, they removed an obstructive bearing wall between the existing kitchen and mudroom, creating a recessed niche for a new 48” gas range with custom hood. An unused desk taken out provided a spot for the new 48” two-drawer refrigerator/freezer. A custom-designed L-shaped granite-surfaced island with bar sink, icemaker and mini-drawer refrigerator takes center stage in the space and offers seating for six. Now the chef can entertain guests while preparing the meal. From an aesthetic point of view, the interior features are nothing less than stunning. Softly painted walls, decorative ceramic tile backsplashes and granite surfaces combine with custom made cabinets to create an elegant space. Antiqued soft-opaque cabinet facings, wood panel refrigerator door inserts, glass-facing display cabinets and a custom mantle range hood are true works of craftsmanship. Fine detail is expressed with flutes and corbels. Beauty is truly in the details of this award-winning kitchen.

Earlier this year we completed a kitchen, lounge and bedroom refurbishment on behalf of our lovely client, and felt honoured to be called back to also refurbish their dining room into a cosy snug area recently. When designing the space, we wanted to repeat similar materials, colours and themes that were in the other refurbished areas so that our client's property had flow and harmony. We replaced the flooring throughout the house and incorporated a gorgeous sisal rug made from the same material as the main lounge and had the space painted in the same colour as the hallway and had a feature wall installed to provide tantalising texture. Before doing this, we had the side window safely boarded up so that wall lights could be installed and so that the room regained it's symmetry. Previously, the window provided only a restricted amount of day light due to the neighbouring property obstructing light, and hence, was redundant of it's primary function. We decided to install wall lights each side of the television to provide additional lighting that did not obstruct the view of the TV. Overall, the space was transformed into an indulgent yet gloriously cosy room, perfect for snuggling up, watching a film and welcoming those winter nights in.

2010 REGIONAL AWARD WINNER Built in 2000, this center hall colonial in Fairfax Station, Virginia had a kitchen that was neither functional nor aesthetically pleasing. First, the floor plan was poorly rationalized. The work triangle was inefficient, a large pantry took up too much floor space, and a series of railings between the kitchen and family room obstructed traffic flow. Aesthetically, the space was dated. Dutch cabinetry, floral wallpaper and a faux Victorian chandelier all cried for an update. Additionally, the homeowners wanted to incorporate high-end appliances and other amenities like a wine cooler and steam cooker. Overall, the owners were seeking to replace worn out-of-style kitchen with a substantially upgraded “open” facility that combines traditional and contemporary features configured to support multiple social and culinary needs. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, they decided to implement a series of strategic revisions that would support their new use goals. First, they removed an obstructive bearing wall between the existing kitchen and mudroom, creating a recessed niche for a new 48” gas range with custom hood. An unused desk taken out provided a spot for the new 48” two-drawer refrigerator/freezer. A custom-designed L-shaped granite-surfaced island with bar sink, icemaker and mini-drawer refrigerator takes center stage in the space and offers seating for six. Now the chef can entertain guests while preparing the meal. From an aesthetic point of view, the interior features are nothing less than stunning. Softly painted walls, decorative ceramic tile backsplashes and granite surfaces combine with custom made cabinets to create an elegant space. Antiqued soft-opaque cabinet facings, wood panel refrigerator door inserts, glass-facing display cabinets and a custom mantle range hood are true works of craftsmanship. Fine detail is expressed with flutes and corbels. Beauty is truly in the details of this award-winning kitchen.

“One challenge Dan at Best Hot Tubs did have was to figure a way to install the spa so it met all the clients’ preferences.” The trick was to allow proper access to the hot tub panel for any future maintenance, as well as ensure an open spa cover did not obstruct any views of their fun-land backyard when sitting in the spa. “Since you don’t want a hot tub lying on the ground when it’s open, hot tub covers are usually designed to fold upright on two arms. This upright position also acts as a privacy screen so neighbors can’t see you getting in to the hot tub,” says Dan. But since that would obstruct views at least in one direction, Dan’s answer was to add two arms at the front end of the spa. These keep it off the ground, but lying flat and not upright. When soaking in the spa, the yard can be seen in every direction.” London Landscape fitted the hot tub so neatly that the masonry from the deck goes right up flush to the acrylic of the spa. “This truly gives the spa the built-in look the clients wanted,” says Dan. Brian Cooper adds that working closely with Dan ensured it all went smoothly.

2010 REGIONAL AWARD WINNER Built in 2000, this center hall colonial in Fairfax Station, Virginia had a kitchen that was neither functional nor aesthetically pleasing. First, the floor plan was poorly rationalized. The work triangle was inefficient, a large pantry took up too much floor space, and a series of railings between the kitchen and family room obstructed traffic flow. Aesthetically, the space was dated. Dutch cabinetry, floral wallpaper and a faux Victorian chandelier all cried for an update. Additionally, the homeowners wanted to incorporate high-end appliances and other amenities like a wine cooler and steam cooker. Overall, the owners were seeking to replace worn out-of-style kitchen with a substantially upgraded “open” facility that combines traditional and contemporary features configured to support multiple social and culinary needs. Working with Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes, they decided to implement a series of strategic revisions that would support their new use goals. First, they removed an obstructive bearing wall between the existing kitchen and mudroom, creating a recessed niche for a new 48” gas range with custom hood. An unused desk taken out provided a spot for the new 48” two-drawer refrigerator/freezer. A custom-designed L-shaped granite-surfaced island with bar sink, icemaker and mini-drawer refrigerator takes center stage in the space and offers seating for six. Now the chef can entertain guests while preparing the meal. From an aesthetic point of view, the interior features are nothing less than stunning. Softly painted walls, decorative ceramic tile backsplashes and granite surfaces combine with custom made cabinets to create an elegant space. Antiqued soft-opaque cabinet facings, wood panel refrigerator door inserts, glass-facing display cabinets and a custom mantle range hood are true works of craftsmanship. Fine detail is expressed with flutes and corbels. Beauty is truly in the details of this award-winning kitchen.