The Lovato House was designed for a tight city lot that needed a view. Creating a multistory home allowed for views to the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The program consisted of an open plan arrangement for living dining and kitchen with two bedrooms and a media room. Utilizing the terrain, the house slips into the city’s height envelope with two stories on the front and three stories on the rear. The stair provides a bit of drama in the space while an elevator allows the owners to inhabit the house into their golden years. The roof garden and portal provide outdoor space for entertaining and private reflection.

Our long-time clients wanted a bit of outdoor entertainment space at their Boston penthouse, and while there were some challenges due to location and footprint, we agreed to help. The views are amazing as this space overlooks the harbor and Boston’s bustling Seaport below. With Logan Airport just on the other side of the Boston Harbor, the arriving jets are a mesmerizing site as their lights line up in preparation to land. The entire space we had to work with is less than 10 feet wide and 45 feet long (think bowling-alley-lane dimensions), so we worked extremely hard to get as much programmable space as possible without forcing any of the areas. The gathering spots are delineated by granite and IPE wood floor tiles supported on a custom pedestal system designed to protect the rubber roof below. The gas grill and wine fridge are installed within a custom-built IPE cabinet topped by jet-mist granite countertops. This countertop extends to a slightly-raised bar area for the ultimate view beyond and terminates as a waterfall of granite meets the same jet-mist floor tiles… custom-cut and honed to match, of course. Moving along the length of the space, the floor transitions from granite to wood, and is framed by sculptural containers and plants. Low-voltage lighting warms the space and creates a striking display that harmonizes with the city lights below. Once again, the floor transitions, this time back to granite in the seating area consisting of two counter-height chairs. "This purposeful back-and-forth of the floor really helps define the space and our furniture choices create these niches that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.” - Russell The terrace concludes with a large trough planter filled with ornamental grasses in the summer months and a seasonal holiday arrangements throughout the winter. An ‘L’-shaped couch offers a spot for multiple guests to relax and take in the sounds of a custom sound system — all hidden and out of sight — which adds to the magical feel of this ultimate night spot.

The desire for a modern, energy efficient home on a modest budget necessitated a tight plan and simple, durable materials. The uncomplicated program consists of an open plan living space, master suite and home office, all with ample connection to the outdoors. Straightforward construction techniques yield light-filled volumes that take advantage of passive heating and natural ventilation. Coming in at a modest 1,700 square feet of living space with a 200 square foot detached garage, this dwelling delivers all the comforts of home in a compact package.

Architect: Patrick Ahearn Architect LLC Construction: Rosbeck BuildersInteriors: Slifer Designs Photography By: Greg Premru “Rigorously symmetrical yet relaxed in shape and proportions, this house is very well executed inside and out. It feels appropriately sized for its site and is well detailed. It’s by far the best of the Shingle Style submittals.” The project is a new construction of a family compound consisting of two new houses and associated site development along South Beach. Due to the topography of the nearby dunes, the living spaces of the main and guest houses were located on the second floor in order to gain the panoramic views of the ocean and extended coastline beyond. The challenge was to create a shingle-style island vernacular architecture that did not reflect the upside-down nature of the primary living space. The inspiration was based on the desire to take a large program and break it into smaller architectural elements based on the idea that the homes could have originally been constructed in the 1920s or 1930s and then added onto over time. This concept of "implied history" is one that creates a legacy of a seaside architecture from the rich history of New England’s past, yet has evolved into how people want to live today. The Marvin products, with their hurricane-resistant capabilities, were a clear choice based on this locale. The use of the folding door systems allowed for the ease of flow from indoor to outdoor spaces in a timeless way.

The desire for a modern, energy efficient home on a modest budget necessitated a tight plan and simple, durable materials. The uncomplicated program consists of an open plan living space, master suite and home office, all with ample connection to the outdoors. Straightforward construction techniques yield light-filled volumes that take advantage of passive heating and natural ventilation. Coming in at a modest 1,700 square feet of living space with a 200 square foot detached garage, this dwelling delivers all the comforts of home in a compact package.

The magnificent Casey Flat Ranch Guinda CA consists of 5,284.43 acres in the Capay Valley and abuts the eastern border of Napa Valley, 90 minutes from San Francisco. There are 24 acres of vineyard, a grass-fed Longhorn cattle herd (with 95 pairs), significant 6-mile private road and access infrastructure, a beautiful ~5,000 square foot main house, a pool, a guest house, a manager's house, a bunkhouse and a "honeymoon cottage" with total accommodation for up to 30 people. Agriculture improvements include barn, corral, hay barn, 2 vineyard buildings, self-sustaining solar grid and 6 water wells, all managed by full time Ranch Manager and Vineyard Manager.The climate at the ranch is similar to northern St. Helena with diurnal temperature fluctuations up to 40 degrees of warm days, mild nights and plenty of sunshine - perfect weather for both Bordeaux and Rhone varieties. The vineyard produces grapes for wines under 2 brands: "Casey Flat Ranch" and "Open Range" varietals produced include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. There is expansion opportunity of additional vineyards to more than 80 incremental acres and an additional 50-100 acres for potential agricultural business of walnuts, olives and other products. Casey Flat Ranch brand longhorns offer a differentiated beef delight to families with ranch-to-table program of lean, superior-taste "Coddled Cattle". Other income opportunities include resort-retreat usage for Bay Area individuals and corporations as a hunting lodge, horse-riding ranch, or elite conference-retreat.

The magnificent Casey Flat Ranch Guinda CA consists of 5,284.43 acres in the Capay Valley and abuts the eastern border of Napa Valley, 90 minutes from San Francisco. There are 24 acres of vineyard, a grass-fed Longhorn cattle herd (with 95 pairs), significant 6-mile private road and access infrastructure, a beautiful ~5,000 square foot main house, a pool, a guest house, a manager's house, a bunkhouse and a "honeymoon cottage" with total accommodation for up to 30 people. Agriculture improvements include barn, corral, hay barn, 2 vineyard buildings, self-sustaining solar grid and 6 water wells, all managed by full time Ranch Manager and Vineyard Manager.The climate at the ranch is similar to northern St. Helena with diurnal temperature fluctuations up to 40 degrees of warm days, mild nights and plenty of sunshine - perfect weather for both Bordeaux and Rhone varieties. The vineyard produces grapes for wines under 2 brands: "Casey Flat Ranch" and "Open Range" varietals produced include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. There is expansion opportunity of additional vineyards to more than 80 incremental acres and an additional 50-100 acres for potential agricultural business of walnuts, olives and other products. Casey Flat Ranch brand longhorns offer a differentiated beef delight to families with ranch-to-table program of lean, superior-taste "Coddled Cattle". Other income opportunities include resort-retreat usage for Bay Area individuals and corporations as a hunting lodge, horse-riding ranch, or elite conference-retreat.

Sam Moore Living Room Tobias Wing Chair SKU SMX-2958400353-96Espr The Tobias Wing Chair in our SMX program is available in stock for immediate shipment. The fabric is the 400353-96. The finish is Espresso. The nails are 1/2" Brass. Collection Features Sam Moore Express program makes our most popular frames available for immediate shipment in pre-determined fabrics and trims. DIMENSIONS Width 29" Depth 38" Height 43" Weight 56 lb Arm Height 22" Seat Width 22" Seat Depth 24" Seat Height 17" DESIGN ELEMENTS & FEATURES Motion Type Stationary Material Hardwood Solids and Fabric Style Transitional Finish Only available with Espresso in the SMX program. Frame Construction Furniture grade laminated hardwood provides weight and durability which eliminates bowing or warping. Construction features include an interlocking frame which is glued, stapled and screwed providing strength and stability. OTHER DETAILS Brand Sam Moore Category Living Room Collection Tobias, SMX Description Tobias Wing Chair Fabric Only available with 400353-96 fabric in the SMX program. Padding Padded outside arms and back for smoother surface and neater appearance. Seat Deluxe seat cushion combining foam and fiber. Thicker cushioning with larger crown for comfort and beauty. Blendown seat consisting of 30% down, 70% polyester fiber optional with slight upcharge. High-end look with feather/down feel but nice cushion crown. Seat Back Tight Back Trim Only available with 1/2" Brass Nails in the SMX program. Type Chairs, Wing Chairs

The transformation of 2,100 s.f. of former servant's areas in an existing single-family residence circa 1860. The program consisted of the creation of a loft-like workspace, wet bar, playroom, as well as a guest suite. Existing portions of the original construction were "preserved and celebrated". New areas were designed around an aesthetic that was more relevant to the "here & now". The entire volume of the servant's area was exposed. New access to the existing roof top "Widow's Walk" was created using a new metal staircase, whose form and color scheme is loosely based upon the theories of Piet Mondrian.

The desire for a modern, energy efficient home on a modest budget necessitated a tight plan and simple, durable materials. The uncomplicated program consists of an open plan living space, master suite and home office, all with ample connection to the outdoors. Straightforward construction techniques yield light-filled volumes that take advantage of passive heating and natural ventilation. Coming in at a modest 1,700 square feet of living space with a 200 square foot detached garage, this dwelling delivers all the comforts of home in a compact package.

The kitchen in this 1950’s home needed a complete overhaul. It was dark, outdated and inefficient. The homeowners wanted to give the space a modern feel without losing the 50’s vibe that is consistent throughout the rest of the home. The homeowner’s needs included: - Working within a fixed space, though reconfiguring or moving walls was okay - Incorporating work space for two chefs - Creating a mudroom - Maintaining the existing laundry chute - A concealed trash receptacle The new kitchen makes use of every inch of space. To maximize counter and cabinet space, we closed in a second exit door and removed a wall between the kitchen and family room. This allowed us to create two L shaped workspaces and an eat-in bar space. A new mudroom entrance was gained by capturing space from an existing closet next to the main exit door. The industrial lighting fixtures and wrought iron hardware bring a modern touch to this retro space. Inset doors on cabinets and beadboard details replicate details found throughout the rest of this 50’s era house.

Since antiquity, Thassos has set the bar for white marble. Hailing from the Greek isle of the same name, Thassos is renowned for its quality, its exceptional hardness and its consistency. Sought after and quarried for millennia, it is undeniably a true classic, with applications that span the spectrum. Artistic Tile carries Thassos in many formats and makes extensive use of this beautiful stone in our Tailored To customization program. If white marble is what you’re after, Thassos should be at the top of your list.

Architect: Patrick Ahearn Architect LLC Construction: Rosbeck BuildersInteriors: Slifer Designs Photography By: Greg Premru “Rigorously symmetrical yet relaxed in shape and proportions, this house is very well executed inside and out. It feels appropriately sized for its site and is well detailed. It’s by far the best of the Shingle Style submittals.” The project is a new construction of a family compound consisting of two new houses and associated site development along South Beach. Due to the topography of the nearby dunes, the living spaces of the main and guest houses were located on the second floor in order to gain the panoramic views of the ocean and extended coastline beyond. The challenge was to create a shingle-style island vernacular architecture that did not reflect the upside-down nature of the primary living space. The inspiration was based on the desire to take a large program and break it into smaller architectural elements based on the idea that the homes could have originally been constructed in the 1920s or 1930s and then added onto over time. This concept of "implied history" is one that creates a legacy of a seaside architecture from the rich history of New England’s past, yet has evolved into how people want to live today. The Marvin products, with their hurricane-resistant capabilities, were a clear choice based on this locale. The use of the folding door systems allowed for the ease of flow from indoor to outdoor spaces in a timeless way.

The desire for a modern, energy efficient home on a modest budget necessitated a tight plan and simple, durable materials. The uncomplicated program consists of an open plan living space, master suite and home office, all with ample connection to the outdoors. Straightforward construction techniques yield light-filled volumes that take advantage of passive heating and natural ventilation. Coming in at a modest 1,700 square feet of living space with a 200 square foot detached garage, this dwelling delivers all the comforts of home in a compact package.

The magnificent Casey Flat Ranch Guinda CA consists of 5,284.43 acres in the Capay Valley and abuts the eastern border of Napa Valley, 90 minutes from San Francisco. There are 24 acres of vineyard, a grass-fed Longhorn cattle herd (with 95 pairs), significant 6-mile private road and access infrastructure, a beautiful ~5,000 square foot main house, a pool, a guest house, a manager's house, a bunkhouse and a "honeymoon cottage" with total accommodation for up to 30 people. Agriculture improvements include barn, corral, hay barn, 2 vineyard buildings, self-sustaining solar grid and 6 water wells, all managed by full time Ranch Manager and Vineyard Manager.The climate at the ranch is similar to northern St. Helena with diurnal temperature fluctuations up to 40 degrees of warm days, mild nights and plenty of sunshine - perfect weather for both Bordeaux and Rhone varieties. The vineyard produces grapes for wines under 2 brands: "Casey Flat Ranch" and "Open Range" varietals produced include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. There is expansion opportunity of additional vineyards to more than 80 incremental acres and an additional 50-100 acres for potential agricultural business of walnuts, olives and other products. Casey Flat Ranch brand longhorns offer a differentiated beef delight to families with ranch-to-table program of lean, superior-taste "Coddled Cattle". Other income opportunities include resort-retreat usage for Bay Area individuals and corporations as a hunting lodge, horse-riding ranch, or elite conference-retreat.

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.

The magnificent Casey Flat Ranch Guinda CA consists of 5,284.43 acres in the Capay Valley and abuts the eastern border of Napa Valley, 90 minutes from San Francisco. There are 24 acres of vineyard, a grass-fed Longhorn cattle herd (with 95 pairs), significant 6-mile private road and access infrastructure, a beautiful ~5,000 square foot main house, a pool, a guest house, a manager's house, a bunkhouse and a "honeymoon cottage" with total accommodation for up to 30 people. Agriculture improvements include barn, corral, hay barn, 2 vineyard buildings, self-sustaining solar grid and 6 water wells, all managed by full time Ranch Manager and Vineyard Manager.The climate at the ranch is similar to northern St. Helena with diurnal temperature fluctuations up to 40 degrees of warm days, mild nights and plenty of sunshine - perfect weather for both Bordeaux and Rhone varieties. The vineyard produces grapes for wines under 2 brands: "Casey Flat Ranch" and "Open Range" varietals produced include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. There is expansion opportunity of additional vineyards to more than 80 incremental acres and an additional 50-100 acres for potential agricultural business of walnuts, olives and other products. Casey Flat Ranch brand longhorns offer a differentiated beef delight to families with ranch-to-table program of lean, superior-taste "Coddled Cattle". Other income opportunities include resort-retreat usage for Bay Area individuals and corporations as a hunting lodge, horse-riding ranch, or elite conference-retreat.

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.

Battle Architects was commissioned to create a new family retreat on Jockey Cove in Wolfeboro, NH. The client was the son of a past Battle Architect’s client who has spent many childhood summers at a family retreat also located on Jockey Cove and wanted to create a place to establish family roots of his own. The client reassembled the same team who built his Family’s Home but John’s direction was to design a unique home that respected the site and the clients program. John’s motto is to “Never do the same thing twice”. From this beginning the home has a feel as if it grew out of the landscape oriented to take advantage of the great views of the lake and the setting sun. Details were developed with clear clean lines and lots of glass. The interior spaces were arranged so that the public spaces would have the best views of the lake where the screen porch would have the premier location as the main gathering spot for the family. The exterior palette consists of cedar shakes and skirl siding, douglas fir and deep painted green trim. The interiors consisted of a fir, white cedar, cherry, fieldstone, slate and wrought iron accents to create a palette of natural materials.