This modern farmhouse located outside of Spokane, Washington, creates a prominent focal point among the landscape of rolling plains. The composition of the home is dominated by three steep gable rooflines linked together by a central spine. This unique design evokes a sense of expansion and contraction from one space to the next. Vertical cedar siding, poured concrete, and zinc gray metal elements clad the modern farmhouse, which, combined with a shop that has the aesthetic of a weathered barn, creates a sense of modernity that remains rooted to the surrounding environment. The Glo double pane A5 Series windows and doors were selected for the project because of their sleek, modern aesthetic and advanced thermal technology over traditional aluminum windows. High performance spacers, low iron glass, larger continuous thermal breaks, and multiple air seals allows the A5 Series to deliver high performance values and cost effective durability while remaining a sophisticated and stylish design choice. Strategically placed operable windows paired with large expanses of fixed picture windows provide natural ventilation and a visual connection to the outdoors.

This Grandview development features a spacious 4-bedroom high-end home built over a 1-bed suite [accessible from the house] and an independent 2-bed/2-bath apartment. It was constructed from pre-fabricated Structual Insulated Panels. This, and other highly innovative construction technologies put the building in a class of its own regarding performance and sustainability. The structure has been seismically-upgraded, and materials have been selected to stand the test of time. The design is strikingly modern but respectful, and the layout is expectionally practical and efficient. The house is on a steep hill, providing views of the north-shore mountains from all floors. The large rooftop deck has panoramic views of the city. The open-plan living/dining room opens out onto a large south-facing deck. Architecture: Nick Bray Architecture Construction Management: Forte Projects

This modern green home offers both a vacation destination on Cape Cod near local family members and an opportunity for rental income. FAMILY ROOTS. A West Coast couple living in the San Francisco Bay Area sought a permanent East Coast vacation home near family members living on Cape Cod. As academic professionals focused on sustainability, they sought a green, energy efficient home that was well-aligned with their values. With no green homes available for sale on Cape Cod, they decided to purchase land near their family and build their own. SLOPED SITE. Comprised of a 3/4 acre lot nestled in the pines, the steeply sloping terrain called for a plan that embraced and took advantage of the slope. Of equal priority was optimizing solar exposure, preserving privacy from abutters, and creating outdoor living space. The design accomplished these goals with a simple, rectilinear form, offering living space on the both entry and lower/basement levels. The stepped foundation allows for a walk-out basement level with light-filled living space on the down-hill side of the home. The traditional basement on the eastern, up-hill side houses mechanical equipment and a home gym. The house welcomes natural light throughout, captures views of the forest, and delivers entertainment space that connects indoor living space to outdoor deck and dining patio. MODERN VISION. The clean building form and uncomplicated finishes pay homage to the modern architectural legacy on the outer Cape. Durable and economical fiber cement panels, fixed with aluminum channels, clad the primary form. Cedar clapboards provide a visual accent at the south-facing living room, which extends a single roof plane to cover the entry porch. SMART USE OF SPACE. On the entry level, the “L”-shaped living, dining, and kitchen space connects to the exterior living, dining, and grilling spaces to effectively double the home’s summertime entertainment area. Placed at the western end of the entry level (where it can retain privacy but still claim expansive downhill views) is the master suite with a built-in study. The lower level has two guest bedrooms, a second full bathroom, and laundry. The flexibility of the space—crucial in a house with a modest footprint—emerges in one of the guest bedrooms, which doubles as home office by opening the barn-style double doors to connect it to the bright, airy open stair leading up to the entry level. Thoughtful design, generous ceiling heights and large windows transform the modest 1,100 sf* footprint into a well-lit, spacious home. *(total finished space is 1800 sf) RENTAL INCOME. The property works for its owners by netting rental income when the owners are home in San Francisco. The house especially caters to vacationers bound for nearby Mayo Beach and includes an outdoor shower adjacent to the lower level entry door. In contrast to the bare bones cottages that are typically available on the Cape, this home offers prospective tenants a modern aesthetic, paired with luxurious and green features. Durable finishes inside and out will ensure longevity with the heavier use that comes with a rental property. COMFORT YEAR-ROUND. The home is super-insulated and air-tight, with mechanical ventilation to provide continuous fresh air from the outside. High performance triple-paned windows complement the building enclosure and maximize passive solar gain while ensuring a warm, draft-free winter, even when sitting close to the glass. A properly sized air source heat pump offers efficient heating & cooling, and includes a carefully designed the duct distribution system to provide even comfort throughout the house. The super-insulated envelope allows us to significantly reduce the equipment capacity, duct size, and airflow quantities, while maintaining unparalleled thermal comfort. ENERGY EFFICIENT. The building’s shell and mechanical systems play instrumental roles in the home’s exceptional performance. The building enclosure reduces the most significant energy glutton: heating. Continuous super-insulation, thorough air sealing, triple-pane windows, and passive solar gain work together to yield a miniscule heating load. All active energy consumers are extremely efficient: an air source heat pump for heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation (ERV), and high efficiency appliances. The result is a home that uses 70% less energy than a similar new home built to code requirements. OVERALL. The home embodies the owners’ goals and values while comprehensively enabling thermal comfort, energy efficiency, a vacation respite, and supplementary income. PROJECT TEAM ZeroEnergy Design - Architect & Mechanical Designer A.F. Hultin & Co. - Contractor Pamet Valley Landscape Design - Landscape & Masonry Lisa Finch - Original Artwork European Architectural Supply - Windows Eric Roth Photography - Photography

At Atlanta Porch & Patio we are dedicated to building beautiful custom porches, decks, and outdoor living spaces throughout the metro Atlanta area. Our mission is to turn our clients’ ideas, dreams, and visions into personalized, tangible outcomes. Clients of Atlanta Porch & Patio rest easy knowing each step of their project is performed to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and dependability. Our team of builders and craftsmen are licensed, insured, and always up to date on trends, products, designs, and building codes. We are constantly educating ourselves in order to provide our clients the best services at the best prices. We deliver the ultimate professional experience with every step of our projects. After setting up a consultation through our website or by calling the office, we will meet with you in your home to discuss all of your ideas and concerns. After our initial meeting and site consultation, we will compile a detailed design plan and quote complete with renderings and a full listing of the materials to be used. Upon your approval, we will then draw up the necessary paperwork and decide on a project start date. From demo to cleanup, we strive to deliver your ultimate relaxation destination on time and on budget.

jeremy bittermann
Inspiration for a contemporary exterior home remodel in Portland

Photo-Jim Westphalen
Small modern white one-story metal exterior home idea in Other

This outstanding residential project showcases the complete transformation of a detached family home into a contemporary luxury residence, delivered by JK Design & Build. Following the demolition of the original property, only the front façade was retained, allowing us to preserve the character of the home while completely rebuilding it from the ground up. The result is a beautifully designed three-storey family residence that combines modern architecture, exceptional craftsmanship, and luxury living. The project included the construction of new side and rear extensions, a first-floor extension, and a spacious loft conversion, significantly increasing both the living space and the property's value. Every aspect of the home was carefully considered, from the structural engineering and bespoke joinery to the premium interior finishes. Luxury features include a bespoke designer kitchen, elegant bathrooms, engineered oak flooring, designer lighting, a private cinema room with a bespoke bar, a fully equipped gym, a billiards room, a home office, and two guest suites within the newly created loft. The home also benefits from modern building technologies, including underfloor heating throughout the ground and first floors, air conditioning, an energy-efficient heat pump, and high-performance insulation to maximise comfort and energy efficiency. Externally, the property was transformed with professionally designed landscaping, a new driveway, and an elegant outdoor entertaining area featuring a bespoke BBQ terrace with integrated heating. This project reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional quality, innovative construction solutions, and fully managed luxury residential projects across London.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

Elevating the Field: A Masterclass in Professional Sports Lighting After two decades leading LED product development and global exports, I’ve learned that stadium lighting isn't just about brightness—it’s about precision, player comfort, and long-term economic viability. Our latest installation showcased here represents the perfect synergy between advanced optical engineering and rugged durability. Here is why this project stands as a benchmark for modern sports infrastructure. 1. Professional-Grade Optical Precision For this project, we didn't just "flood" the field with light. We engineered a solution: Asymmetric Beam Control: We utilized custom-engineered lenses to direct light strictly onto the playing surface. This eliminates "sky glow" and light pollution for the surrounding community. Anti-Glare Technology: By controlling the peak intensity angles, we’ve ensured that athletes can track the ball in the air without being blinded, a critical factor for high-speed sports performance. Uniformity Excellence: The lighting distribution achieves a high uniformity ratio, eliminating dark spots and shadows that can lead to player injury. 2. Industrial-Strength Thermal Management The secret to a 10-year lifespan isn't the LED chip; it's the heat dissipation. Aero-Grade Heat Sinks: These fixtures feature high-purity aluminum housing with a vertical thermal flow design. Longevity in Harsh Conditions: Designed to withstand extreme outdoor temperatures, the system ensures that lumen depreciation is kept to a minimum, protecting the client’s investment for years to come. 3. Global Compliance & Export Quality From a trade perspective, we understand that reliability is the only currency that matters in international projects. Certified Durability: The system carries full IP66 waterproof and IK08 impact ratings, making it resilient against heavy storms and physical impact. International Standards: Fully compliant with CE, RoHS, and DLC Premium requirements, ensuring seamless integration into power grids worldwide and eligibility for green-energy subsidies. 4. The ROI: Efficiency Meets Sustainability Switching to this high-efficiency LED system resulted in a 65% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous metal halide installation. With integrated smart-control compatibility, the facility can now manage lighting levels based on usage, further accelerating the payback period. The Bottom Line: Lighting a sports facility is an investment in the community and the athletes. We don't just provide lamps; we provide a professional environment where the game can be played at its best, long after the sun goes down. Are you looking to upgrade your facility to international standards? Let’s discuss how our 20 years of expertise can illuminate your next project.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

This outstanding residential project showcases the complete transformation of a detached family home into a contemporary luxury residence, delivered by JK Design & Build. Following the demolition of the original property, only the front façade was retained, allowing us to preserve the character of the home while completely rebuilding it from the ground up. The result is a beautifully designed three-storey family residence that combines modern architecture, exceptional craftsmanship, and luxury living. The project included the construction of new side and rear extensions, a first-floor extension, and a spacious loft conversion, significantly increasing both the living space and the property's value. Every aspect of the home was carefully considered, from the structural engineering and bespoke joinery to the premium interior finishes. Luxury features include a bespoke designer kitchen, elegant bathrooms, engineered oak flooring, designer lighting, a private cinema room with a bespoke bar, a fully equipped gym, a billiards room, a home office, and two guest suites within the newly created loft. The home also benefits from modern building technologies, including underfloor heating throughout the ground and first floors, air conditioning, an energy-efficient heat pump, and high-performance insulation to maximise comfort and energy efficiency. Externally, the property was transformed with professionally designed landscaping, a new driveway, and an elegant outdoor entertaining area featuring a bespoke BBQ terrace with integrated heating. This project reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional quality, innovative construction solutions, and fully managed luxury residential projects across London.

Creating a comfortable outdoor living space is a priority for many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. With rising summer temperatures, installing a shade tarp in your backyard offers an affordable and effective solution for sun protection. We’ve developed this detailed, step-by-step guide to help you confidently install a shade tarp that not only shields you from the sun but also adds aesthetic appeal to your outdoor area. Benefits of Installing a Backyard Shade Tarp Before diving into the installation process, let’s explore the key benefits of having a backyard shade tarp: Provides UV Protection: Keeps your family and guests safe from harmful sun exposure. Reduces Outdoor Temperatures: Creates a cooler, more enjoyable outdoor space. Protects Outdoor Furniture: Extends the life of patio furniture by reducing sun damage. Enhances Outdoor Aesthetics: Adds a modern, stylish look to your yard. Budget-Friendly: More affordable compared to permanent structures like pergolas. Materials and Tools You’ll Need To begin your DIY backyard shade project, gather the following materials and tools: Materials: Shade tarp (UV-resistant and breathable) Sturdy posts or existing structures (trees, fences, walls) Mounting hardware (eye bolts, D-rings, turnbuckles, snap hooks) Nylon or polyester rope, or stainless-steel wire Concrete (if installing new posts) Tools: Power drill Measuring tape Level Ladder Wrench or adjustable spanner Post hole digger (if installing new posts) Step 1: Plan Your Shade Tarp Layout The first step in installing your backyard shade tarp is careful planning. Take time to assess your outdoor area and answer these key questions: Where is the sun’s path throughout the day? What size and shape of tarp best suits your space? Will you anchor the tarp to existing structures or install new posts? What height do you want the tarp to sit at for maximum shade and airflow? Pro Tip: Use string or garden hoses to visualize the tarp layout on the ground before making permanent decisions. Step 2: Measure and Mark Anchor Points Once you’ve determined the tarp’s location and orientation: Measure the tarp dimensions. Mark the exact points where each corner of the tarp will be anchored. Ensure that the anchor points are at least 5–10% longer than the tarp size to allow for tensioning and slight adjustments. Consider slope angles for water runoff. Aim for at least a 20-degree angle to prevent water pooling on the tarp. Step 3: Install Support Posts (If Necessary) If your backyard lacks existing anchor points like trees or fences, you’ll need to install sturdy support posts: Dig post holes at least 24 inches deep and 8-12 inches wide for stability. Set posts in concrete, making sure they remain plumb and level. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24–48 hours before applying tension from the tarp. We recommend using pressure-treated wood, galvanized steel poles, or aluminum posts for longevity and strength. Step 4: Install Mounting Hardware With your anchor points ready, it’s time to install the necessary hardware: Attach eye bolts or pad eyes securely into walls, posts, or other fixed structures. For added flexibility and adjustability, install turnbuckles or tensioners to fine-tune the tarp’s tightness. Connect snap hooks, D-rings, or carabiners to make assembly and disassembly easier. Make sure all hardware is rated for outdoor use to prevent rust and corrosion. Step 5: Attach and Tension the Shade Tarp Now it’s time for the most satisfying part—mounting the shade tarp: Begin by attaching one corner of the tarp to an anchor point. Gradually attach the remaining corners, moving diagonally for even tension. Adjust each connection point using your turnbuckles, ropes, or cables. Pull the tarp tight enough to avoid sagging, but not so tight that it risks tearing. Check that the tarp maintains the desired slope for rainwater runoff and adjust tension as needed. Step 6: Final Adjustments and Safety Check Before enjoying your new shaded area: Inspect all anchor points and hardware for stability. Test the tarp’s tension and make adjustments for even distribution. Ensure that no sharp edges or loose connections remain that could damage the tarp or pose a safety hazard. Confirm that the tarp is secure in windy conditions by giving it a gentle tug. If you live in an area with frequent high winds, consider removing the tarp during storms to prevent damage. Step 7: Enjoy Your Shaded Backyard Oasis Once installed, your backyard shade tarp provides a comfortable and protective space for outdoor gatherings, relaxation, or family activities. You can decorate underneath with outdoor furniture, string lights, or potted plants to create a personalized outdoor retreat. Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Shade Tarp Performance To extend the life of your shade tarp, follow these maintenance guidelines: Regularly check for wear and tear, especially around anchor points and seams. Clean the tarp periodically with mild soap and water to prevent mildew buildup. Store the tarp indoors during harsh weather seasons if it's not designed for year-round use. Tighten hardware as needed to maintain proper tension and avoid sagging. By following these simple care steps, your shade tarp will continue to deliver years of sun protection and outdoor comfort. Conclusion: Upgrade Your Outdoor Space with a DIY Shade Tarp Installing a shade tarp in your backyard is a cost-effective and rewarding DIY project. With careful planning, quality materials, and proper installation techniques, you’ll enjoy cool, shaded outdoor living all season long. This step-by-step guide ensures your project goes smoothly from start to finish.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

Nestled on the shoreline of Windang, Ocean is a statement of refined coastal living, designed and built by CKS Projects, the Illawarra’s leading luxury home builder. This architectural home blends timeless design, sustainable construction, and effortless connection to the sea. Every line, material, and finish has been thoughtfully chosen to capture the essence of oceanfront life — light, space, and serenity. From its panoramic glass façade framing uninterrupted coastal views to the custom joinery and natural textures throughout, Ocean celebrates the meeting point of modern luxury and relaxed seaside warmth. High-performance glazing, engineered steel framing, and energy-efficient systems deliver 7-star comfort and durability in the demanding coastal environment, ensuring this home will stand strong for generations. At CKS Projects, we take pride in crafting homes that are as functional as they are beautiful — and Ocean, Windang is no exception. It’s a seamless collaboration between builder, designer, and client; a reflection of craftsmanship, precision, and the distinctive coastal lifestyle that defines the Illawarra region.

This project showcases a high-end marble interior installation designed and supplied by Parash Stones, featuring premium quality natural marble used for flooring, wall cladding, and decorative applications. The project reflects a perfect blend of luxury, elegance, and durability, making it ideal for modern residential and commercial spaces. The marble used in this project is carefully selected for its rich texture, natural veining, and superior finish, creating a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. The installation includes precision-cut slabs and tiles, ensuring seamless joints and a flawless surface. Designed to meet international standards, the marble is highly durable and suitable for high-traffic areas, offering long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance. This project highlights Parash Stones’ expertise in delivering premium marble solutions for global markets, especially in the USA and Europe.