Sunroom with wood ceiling detail.
Mid-sized beach style screened-in and metal railing back porch photo in Minneapolis

The addition with garage below and home office above was roofed with a cross gable to allow it to extend beyond the original house front and a false gable was framed over the existing bedroom wing for balance in the facade. Adding another gable at the front porch would have been to many and would have reduced the light into the stair hall. so instead a shed roof was used.

The addition of the kitchen nook incorporated a Frost Protected Shallow Foundation(FPSF) is essentially a slab on grade which is surrounded by insulation, which, in effect, raises the frost line to just below the surface, allowing reduced excavation and foundation wall depths. This type of foundation helped with energy efficiency in the addition. It also limited disturbance of a tree near to the new addition. A porch entry was added as a friendly neighborhood gesture.

Compost is a natural, long-lasting way to feed your soil, and a wonderfully sustainable way to dispose of kitchen and garden waste. This triple bin is big enough to fit plenty of vegetable scraps as well as lawn clippings and leaves. Bins are made entirely of rot-resistant cedar and enclosed on all sides with sturdy wire mesh that allows air to flow to and through the compost. Removable front panels and hinged lids make for easy access. Systems are available in triple, double, and single bin configurations. Comes with the classic book about composting Let it Rot!: The Gardener's Guide to Composting by Stu Campbell.

Another angle. To reduce the overall expense, USI designed a beam to extend beyond the load bearing wall to allow for the light dispersement of the pendants to be in the correct location for the bar, while keeping the cost down since the GC did not need to re-engineer the load of this critical wall.

The Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project aims to create an exquisite outdoor living space that seamlessly blends functionality, aesthetics, and versatility. By incorporating a louvered roof system, folding doors, and an outdoor kitchen, this project offers the perfect setting for relaxation, entertainment, and culinary experiences. The centerpiece of this project is the louvered roof pergola. The louvered roof consists of adjustable slats that can be opened or closed, allowing for precise control over sunlight, shade, and ventilation. This feature enables occupants to adapt to changing weather conditions and preferences, providing a comfortable environment throughout the year. The pergola's folding doors provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. These doors can be fully opened to extend the living area or closed to create a more intimate setting. The doors are designed to maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, while also providing privacy and security when needed. The outdoor kitchen complements the pergola, offering a convenient and functional space for cooking and dining. Equipped with high-quality appliances, ample counter space, and storage options, the kitchen enables the preparation of gourmet meals in an outdoor setting. It can include features such as a grill, sink, refrigerator, and seating area, creating an inviting space for socializing and culinary delights. Benefits and Uses: The Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project provides numerous benefits and uses, including: Outdoor Entertainment: The pergola and outdoor kitchen create an ideal space for hosting gatherings, parties, and barbecues. The versatile design allows for flexible seating arrangements and the integration of audiovisual equipment for an immersive entertainment experience. Relaxation and Recreation: The outdoor living area offers a tranquil retreat for relaxation, reading, or enjoying the beauty of nature. The adjustable louvered roof provides control over sunlight and shade, ensuring comfort and protection from the elements. Al Fresco Dining: The outdoor kitchen encourages al fresco dining experiences, enabling homeowners to enjoy meals in the fresh air and picturesque surroundings. The well-equipped kitchen facilitates effortless food preparation and enhances the overall dining experience. Increased Property Value: The addition of a louvered roof pergola with folding doors and an outdoor kitchen enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the property. This can increase the value of the home and attract potential buyers in the future. Sustainability Considerations: Incorporating sustainable elements into the project is crucial. The louvered roof system can be designed to capture rainwater for irrigation purposes, reducing water consumption. The use of energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting in the outdoor kitchen minimizes energy consumption. Additionally, the choice of eco-friendly materials and landscaping practices ensures a sustainable and environmentally conscious design. Project Timeline and Budget: The project timeline will depend on the size and complexity of the outdoor living space. A professional design and construction team will be required to ensure the successful implementation of the project. The budget will vary based on the desired features, materials, and appliances, and should be established after careful consideration of all elements involved. In conclusion, the Louvered Roof Pergola with Folding Doors and Outdoor Kitchen project presents an opportunity to transform an ordinary outdoor space into a luxurious and functional oasis. By incorporating a louvered roof system, folding doors, and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen, this project offers a versatile and aesthetically pleasing environment for entertainment, relaxation, and culinary experiences.

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.

Built custom frames to fit pillars made from actual tree trunks, and sourced Solaire automated retractable solar shades by Awnco Retractables. These shades will retain heat in the winter produced by strategically placed outdoor heaters. They will also reduce the amount of heat allowed to enter the Veranda in the summer. Fitting the tree trunks was no small feat. Each vertical board was hand whittled to match the texture of the trees.

The primary bathroom continues the theme of refined comfort with a navy blue vanity accented by Lucite and brass hardware, adding a bold yet elegant contrast. Soft gold fixtures, hardware, and sconces complement the large porcelain wall tiles, which extend into the spacious angled shower for a seamless, luxurious effect. Matching floor tiles unify the space, while double sinks and mirrored medicine cabinets offer convenience and functionality without sacrificing style. The original bathtub was replaced by a shower with a low curb, a seat, and blocking for future grab bars. The matte tile on the shower floor is non-slip.

A custom walk-in closet maximizes space efficiency, allowing for tailored organization of clothing, shoes, and accessories. It enhances accessibility, streamlining daily routines and reducing clutter, while also adding value to your home through personalized design and functionality.

A custom walk-in closet maximizes space efficiency, allowing for tailored organization of clothing, shoes, and accessories. It enhances accessibility, streamlining daily routines and reducing clutter, while also adding value to your home through personalized design and functionality.

Built custom frames to fit pillars made from actual tree trunks, and sourced Solaire automated retractable solar shades by Awnco Retractables. These shades will retain heat in the winter produced by strategically placed outdoor heaters. They will also reduce the amount of heat allowed to enter the Veranda in the summer. Fitting the tree trunks was no small feat. Each vertical board was hand whittled to match the texture of the trees.

The left side of the Dry-Bar conceals the central HVAC chase. Wallpaper accents at the wood shelves and undercounter Wine Fridge make this space poised for entertaining. Extending the cabinetry to the ceiling created ample storage, allowing the service pantry to be reduced in size and the creation of areas for “pretty storage” at the end of the fridge.

Superior Exterior 713 785-6926
Inspiration for a timeless gray tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile freestanding bathtub remodel in Houston with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, a one-piece toilet and gray walls

built custom frames to fit pillars made from actual tree trunks, and sourced Solaire automated retractable solar shades by Awnco Retractables. These shades will retain heat in the winter produced by strategically placed outdoor heaters. They will also reduce the amount of heat allowed to enter the Veranda in the summer. Fitting the tree trunks was no small feat. Each vertical board was hand whittled to match the texture of the trees.

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Built custom frames to fit pillars made from actual tree trunks, and sourced Solaire automated retractable solar shades by Awnco Retractables. These shades will retain heat in the winter produced by strategically placed outdoor heaters. They will also reduce the amount of heat allowed to enter the Veranda in the summer. Fitting the tree trunks was no small feat. Each vertical board was hand whittled to match the texture of the trees.

This room is just plain cool and it makes you want to create something as soon as you step foot inside. We can imagine kids actually wanting to do their homework in this room! The window treatments needed to contribute to the modern, no-fuss look of this room. Pirouette® shadings have clean, modern lines and again were the right choice. They’re also practical since the fabric vanes filter out glare for TV viewing and reduce UV rays to help protect furnishings. These shades are great for maximizing daylight hours, reducing the need for artificial light, and allowing for enhanced views to the outside while maintaining privacy.

Mike Ciolino
Mudroom - mid-sized transitional slate floor and brown floor mudroom idea in Boston with beige walls and a white front door