View of the outside through the shade cloth: The patio at this private residence in Mahwah NJ faces west, and during the summer months, the heat and glare from the sun is overwhelming; making this beautiful outdoor retreat unbearable. Motorized exterior solar shades were installed on the fascia of the overhang to reduce the harmful effects of the sun. The goals were to create a comfortable living space, reduce the glare, heat and UV, and reduce flying insects and inclement weather when in use. A Charcoal colored fabric was chosen for this roller shade as retaining the view was one of the priorities. The shade cloth selected blocks 95% of glare, but still allows the an unobstructed view of the pool for safety, and keeps the views of the Ramapo River and beautifully landscaped property. The amount of coverage and openness of the fabric drastically reduces insects and inclement weather, and cable guide rails were chosen to keep the shade fabric from billowing in the wind. Due to their small footprint, cable guides are more aesthetically pleasing versus aluminum rails, zip rails or concealed edge options which were available, but not selected for this application. The Somfy motorization allows for push-button operation, and was also tied into an existing smart-home automation system which allows the client to control the product remotely. An added benefit of this automation feature allows the client to save on cooling related air conditioning costs. The combination of 95% UV blockage and dark colored fabric gives these exterior solar shades an 87% Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, meaning that these solar screen shades will dramatically reduce the amount of UV and heat penetrating the windows of the home. Fabric Specifications: Mermet Satine Charcoal/Charcoal, Pattern 30.30 7% Solar Transmittance (Ts) 5% Solar Reflectance (Rs) 88% Solar Absorptance (As) 7% Visible Light Transmission VLT (Tv)

View of the color-matched cassette hardware which conceals the shade fabric: The patio at this private residence in Mahwah NJ faces west, and during the summer months, the heat and glare from the sun is overwhelming; making this beautiful outdoor retreat unbearable. Motorized exterior solar shades were installed on the fascia of the overhang to reduce the harmful effects of the sun. The goals were to create a comfortable living space, reduce the glare, heat and UV, and reduce flying insects and inclement weather when in use. A Charcoal colored fabric was chosen for this roller shade as retaining the view was one of the priorities. The shade cloth selected blocks 95% of glare, but still allows the an unobstructed view of the pool for safety, and keeps the views of the Ramapo River and beautifully landscaped property. The amount of coverage and openness of the fabric drastically reduces insects and inclement weather, and cable guide rails were chosen to keep the shade fabric from billowing in the wind. Due to their small footprint, cable guides are more aesthetically pleasing versus aluminum rails, zip rails or concealed edge options which were available, but not selected for this application. The Somfy motorization allows for push-button operation, and was also tied into an existing smart-home automation system which allows the client to control the product remotely. An added benefit of this automation feature allows the client to save on cooling related air conditioning costs. The combination of 95% UV blockage and dark colored fabric gives these exterior solar shades an 87% Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, meaning that these solar screen shades will dramatically reduce the amount of UV and heat penetrating the windows of the home. Fabric Specifications: Mermet Satine Charcoal/Charcoal, Pattern 30.30 7% Solar Transmittance (Ts) 5% Solar Reflectance (Rs) 88% Solar Absorptance (As) 7% Visible Light Transmission VLT (Tv)

View from the pool toward the shades: The patio at this private residence in Mahwah NJ faces west, and during the summer months, the heat and glare from the sun is overwhelming; making this beautiful outdoor retreat unbearable. Motorized exterior solar shades were installed on the fascia of the overhang to reduce the harmful effects of the sun. The goals were to create a comfortable living space, reduce the glare, heat and UV, and reduce flying insects and inclement weather when in use. A Charcoal colored fabric was chosen for this roller shade as retaining the view was one of the priorities. The shade cloth selected blocks 95% of glare, but still allows the an unobstructed view of the pool for safety, and keeps the views of the Ramapo River and beautifully landscaped property. The amount of coverage and openness of the fabric drastically reduces insects and inclement weather, and cable guide rails were chosen to keep the shade fabric from billowing in the wind. Due to their small footprint, cable guides are more aesthetically pleasing versus aluminum rails, zip rails or concealed edge options which were available, but not selected for this application. The Somfy motorization allows for push-button operation, and was also tied into an existing smart-home automation system which allows the client to control the product remotely. An added benefit of this automation feature allows the client to save on cooling related air conditioning costs. The combination of 95% UV blockage and dark colored fabric gives these exterior solar shades an 87% Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, meaning that these solar screen shades will dramatically reduce the amount of UV and heat penetrating the windows of the home. Fabric Specifications: Mermet Satine Charcoal/Charcoal, Pattern 30.30 7% Solar Transmittance (Ts) 5% Solar Reflectance (Rs) 88% Solar Absorptance (As) 7% Visible Light Transmission VLT (Tv)

View of the color-matched cassette hardware which conceals the shade fabric: The patio at this private residence in Mahwah NJ faces west, and during the summer months, the heat and glare from the sun is overwhelming; making this beautiful outdoor retreat unbearable. Motorized exterior solar shades were installed on the fascia of the overhang to reduce the harmful effects of the sun. The goals were to create a comfortable living space, reduce the glare, heat and UV, and reduce flying insects and inclement weather when in use. A Charcoal colored fabric was chosen for this roller shade as retaining the view was one of the priorities. The shade cloth selected blocks 95% of glare, but still allows the an unobstructed view of the pool for safety, and keeps the views of the Ramapo River and beautifully landscaped property. The amount of coverage and openness of the fabric drastically reduces insects and inclement weather, and cable guide rails were chosen to keep the shade fabric from billowing in the wind. Due to their small footprint, cable guides are more aesthetically pleasing versus aluminum rails, zip rails or concealed edge options which were available, but not selected for this application. The Somfy motorization allows for push-button operation, and was also tied into an existing smart-home automation system which allows the client to control the product remotely. An added benefit of this automation feature allows the client to save on cooling related air conditioning costs. The combination of 95% UV blockage and dark colored fabric gives these exterior solar shades an 87% Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, meaning that these solar screen shades will dramatically reduce the amount of UV and heat penetrating the windows of the home. Fabric Specifications: Mermet Satine Charcoal/Charcoal, Pattern 30.30 7% Solar Transmittance (Ts) 5% Solar Reflectance (Rs) 88% Solar Absorptance (As) 7% Visible Light Transmission VLT (Tv)

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space. Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings. Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command. Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models. Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices. Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor. Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated. If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

Stunningly constructed unique home on a Corner LOT in Willow Grove loaded with high quality designer finishes and features! Homes has 4 bedrooms, 4½ baths, office, California room, and bonus/ entertaining room. stylish and functional open floor plan with 10 to 12 foot ceilings. Eight ft tall atrium style windows line the main living area offering a setting filled with natural light overlooking the outer courtyard. Home is Networked with a main Home Automation System. A large modern fireplace serves as a mainstay for the living area with clear fire glass, varied halogen lighting, electronic ignition and thermostatic remote control. Connected to the main living area is the new California Room. It features a large 14 FT glass style door that rolls up behind the ceiling with the push of a button. The set of two Large double doors on the front open up, transforming this heated and cooled Living area into an open pavilion style entertaining area. The front of the room offers a deluxe stove top set into quartz, large sink and counter tops with a center fireplace. Directly outside is the grilling area and courtyard. The main kitchen area has a large center island with storage underneath. All counter tops and backslash is set in quartz with a large farm size stainless steel sink, all soft-close cabinet doors and drawers. Thermadoor appliances with double ovens, wine cooler, ice maker, and commercial size refrigerator. The pantry features barn style doors and built-ins for an added modern touch. The large master suite is also lined with windows overlooking the courtyard. An ensuite master bath offers a double sink marble top vanity and large soaking tub with encased marble surround. A frame less all glass shower and Two very large closets with custom built-ins. The upstairs is well designed with a Bonus / Entertaining Room, 2 bedrooms and two full baths. Every bedroom in the home has its own bath with a 5th ½ bath conveniently located for guest. Three energy efficient HVACs

Upstairs a curved upper landing hallway leads to the master suite, creating wing-like privacy for adult escape. Another two-sided fireplace, wrapped in unique designer finishes, separates the bedroom from an ensuite with luxurious steam shower and sunken soaker tub-for-2. Passing through the spa-like suite leads to a dressing room of ample shelving, drawers, and illuminated hang-rods, this master is truly a serene retreat.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.

The ground floor volumes wrapped in an elongated hand-fired brick, emphasizing the horizontality of the architecture that lays solidly on the land. (Photography by: Matthew Millman)

The French Vanilla paint with the Cafe glaze gives the cabinets a country, distressed look, without looking old. The simple hardware contrasts the design and color of the cabinets beautifully. Photos by Aimee Fritzges at One Week Kitchens.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space. Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings. Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command. Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models. Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices. Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor. Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated. If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space. Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings. Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command. Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models. Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices. Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor. Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated. If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space. Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings. Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command. Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models. Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices. Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor. Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated. If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

A double vanity is a big plus for family homes! Here we did a mix of brown and black tones to help update the space while also tying in the rest of the house.

Among the best in art fireplace design, the AF100 Remote Controlled Electronic Bio Ethanol Burner Insert is favored by architects, contractors and high-end designers and offers the discerning client unprecedented quality and safety. In addition to the same vent-free and clean burning flames as manual ethanol fireplace inserts, this art-Fire bio ethanol burner offers much more for both residential and commercial applications: Remote Control Capability. Due to its electronic operation, powered by a twelve-volt power source, this ethanol fireplace insert may be ignited and extinguished through an on/off switch located on the burner itself, a one-button remote control or through your smart phone by integrating with your Smart Home System. On-Board Safety Monitoring. The motherboard of this fireplace insert is safety-central. Constantly self-evaluating its operation, this intelligent burner reacts to any condition that appears atypical. Should it sense an excess amount of carbon dioxide emission or heat output, it will automatically cease operation, extinguish the flame and maintain the lock mechanism of the fuel chamber. Additionally, it will self-extinguish should it sense seismic motion or level of tilt making it a shock-proof device. Fuel and battery levels are also constantly evaluated for optimal performance and will give notification through the burner’s LED display, which will indicate operation times and alert you by sound and error message should an event occur. Sturdy Construction. Constructed of Grade 304 stainless steel, the ethanol burner is corrosion resistant and exhibits excellent resistance to atmospheric, chemical and other exposures. Its top plate measures three millimeters in thickness (3/32 inches). This allows sturdiness, yet promotes a low profile. For added safety, the bio ethanol burner AF100 offers insulated double hearth construction. Separate Fuel Reservoir and Burner Tray. Continuing with the unprecedented safety features of this ethanol burner, excess fuel is housed in a sealed reservoir. This not only prevents fuel evaporation and the aromatic release of the raw ethanol, but lessens the amount of “exposed” fuel at any given time. Through a medical grade fuel pump, the ethanol is delivered into the burner tray. Only allowing the burner tray to manage a few centiliters of ethanol fuel at a given time promotes additional safety and minimizes the risk of fire-related dangers.

This huge covered patio in Houston offers a warm, dry, beautiful gathering space for friends and family! The clients, Tim and Julie Burke of Spring, TX wanted something more waterproof than the small gazebo where they often entertained friends and family. The Burkes asked for a large, shingled roof extension that matched the existing house. We gave them an 800-square-foot covered patio with a gabled roof and a gorgeous tongue-and-groove wooden ceiling. The hip roof on one one side covers the existing outdoor kitchen and the outdoor bathroom the Burkes want to build themselves. On the other side is a sloped roof creating a breezeway and sitting area between the patio and house. We also installed the best permanent outdoor heating system we could find – Solaira quartz infrared heating units. Able to throw more heat further and more evenly than portable units, these electric-powered heaters can be installed up and out of sight. You don’t have to lug them around, refuel them with propane and worry about storing them. When you need them, all you need to do is a push a button! When heat strikes, however – as it does for any covered patio in Houston – the Burkes can cool off with two industrial-sized outdoor ceiling fans. Two TVs were also added to the existing outdoor kitchen. The Burkes started enjoying those right away, using them to watch the NCAA Final Four basketball championship with their family. We also built an addition onto the outdoor kitchen island that houses an ice maker and extra seating. We also replaced the countertops with new granite. Very few times do you actually get the service you expect,” reads the Houzz review of this covered patio by the clients, Tim and Julie Burke. “But in this case, it went further than we had ever previously experienced.” The computer drawings, they add, really helped them and the homeowners’ association visualize how the project would look when final and all that would be involved: “They really listened to what we needed and so far, it has surpassed our expectations.” They also appreciated the constant communication, quality workmanship, last-minute accommodations and tidying up at the end of the day. “Overall, this has been a great experience, and we love our outdoor space!”

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space. Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings. Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command. Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models. Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices. Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor. Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated. If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.

Retractable Screens, also known as Roll-up Screens and Vertical Rolling Screens are completely customized to meet the needs of the space. Easy to see through and completely retractable, exterior Retractable Screens create a cool, comfortable, insect-free environment without sacrificing your view. Designed to provide superior solar protection, they mitigate UV damage, optimize comfort and provide daytime privacy even in windy settings. Extra sun control can be achieved by increasing thread counts and weave density. Retractable Solar Shades provide energy-efficient sun shading, shelter against bugs and mosquitoes, climate control and rain/wind reduction while allowing outward visibility. Depending on screen fabric selection, our solar shade fabric selections are capable of blocking up to 95% of ultra-violet (UV) rays–saving up to 50% of the energy used to heat and cool homes. Motorize Retractable Screens provide control at the touch of a button. Somfy Motors allow activation by wall mounted toggle switch or several different types of remote control options. These Retractable Screens will stop at upper and lower limits and are able to stop any where along the travel path on command. Optional Manual Override features allow for operation in case of power outage for motorized units. Manual Operations are available on most models. Motorized Retractable Screens equipped with Somfy RTS motors may be upgraded for use in Smart Homes and operated via Smartphone or other Mobile Devices. Retractable Screens should be retracted when not in use. The screens are raised and housed inside the aluminum housing. All major components of the system are powder coated aluminum for durability, ease of operations, and longevity. All Retractable Screens from Shade & Shutter Systems come with a 5 year Warranty, to include the Somfy Motor. Retractable Screens offer wind and rain abatement for breezy days. Many of our clients enjoy outdoor patio settings along coastal areas and beach front properties. Those areas also endure regular breezes that can be knocked down with retractable Screens for a more enjoyable experience. Although these screens are not designed for storm protection, winds to 40 mph are easily abated. If you would like more information about Retractable Screens, our Product Specialists can be reached at 800-522-1599.