Modern Wall Unit VV 3926 Made in Italy Perfect for both modern and contemporary styled interiors, this modular wall unit line offers lots of customization options so everyone could adjust the composition according to the individual's size and color requirements, creating an entertainment center of the dream. The wall unit line features lots of different units, that are available in several sizes and can wall mounted both vertically and horizontally. All the units from this entertainment center furniture collection are available in walnut, white ash, ivory ash and mink ash wood structure finishes as well as white and mud high gloss lacquers. The structure and the front doors of the same unit can be ordered in different finishes/lacquers to add unique and elegant contrast look to the wall unit design. Features: E1-Class ecological panels, which are produced exclusively through a wood recycling production process The structure and the front in wood finishes are made of chipboard The lacquered structures and fronts are made of REAL POLISH SCRATCH PROOF LACQUERING, which is non toxic and non allergic products All the panels are 0.7" thick Drawers mounted on metal runners with MDF bottom panel, height adjustable and soft-close system Metal snap-on hinges with adjustable height The starting price is for the VV Wall Unit Composition 3926 as shown in the main picture in Mink Ash / Ivory Ash / Mud Lacquer finishes. (Consists of: Two Base Drawer Cabinets H17.7" x W59" each, Two Horizontal Hanging Units W47.2" each, Horizontal Hanging Unit W59", Vertical Hanging Unit H47.2", TV Panel W47.2"). Dimensions: Wall Unit: W120" x D18.3" x H74.8" Individual Components: Base Drawer Cabinet: W59" x D18.3" x H17.7" Horizontal Hanging Unit: W47.2" x D13.8" x H13.4" Horizontal Hanging Unit: W59" x D13.8" x H13.4" Vertical Hanging Unit: W13.4" x D13.8" x H47.2" TV Panel: W47.2" x D0.8" x H35.4"

Modern Italian Wall Unit VV 3917 Made in Italy Perfect for both modern and contemporary styled interiors, this modular wall unit line offers lots of customization options so everyone could adjust the composition according to the individual's size and color requirements, creating an entertainment center of the dream. The wall unit line features lots of different units, that are available in several sizes and can wall mounted both vertically and horizontally. All the units from this entertainment center furniture collection are available in walnut, white ash, ivory ash and mink ash wood structure finishes as well as white and mud high gloss lacquers. The structure and the front doors of the same unit can be ordered in different finishes/lacquers to add unique and elegant contrast look to the wall unit design. Features: E1-Class ecological panels, which are produced exclusively through a wood recycling production process The structure and the front in wood finishes are made of chipboard The lacquered structures and fronts are made of REAL POLISH SCRATCH PROOF LACQUERING, which is non toxic and non allergic products All the panels are 0.7" thick Drawers mounted on metal runners with MDF bottom panel, height adjustable and soft-close system Metal snap-on hinges with adjustable height The starting price is for the VV Wall Unit Composition 3917 as shown in the main picture in Mud Lacquer / White Lacquer finishes. (Consists of: Two Base Drawer Cabinets W59" x H10.2" each, TV Panel W47.2", Two Vertical Hanging Units H59" each, Two Horizontal Hanging Units W47.2" each). Dimensions: Wall Unit: W118" x D18.3" x H78.8" Individual Components: Base Drawer Cabinet H10.2": W59" x D18.3" x H10.2" Horizontal Hanging Unit: W47.2" x D13.8" x H13.4" Vertical Hanging Unit: W13.4" x D13.8" x H59" TV Panel: W47.2" x D0.8" x H35.4"

Patio kitchen plans these days require the ability to incorporate high-tech, modern appliances into rustic, timeless – even ancient-looking – outdoor design styles. You can see this juxtaposition pulled off perfectly in this outdoor kitchen by Outdoor Homescapes of Houston. “A smart patio kitchen plan requires not only a balance of the new and old,” says Outdoor Homescapes owner Wayne Franks, “but a blending of new elements – like an outdoor kitchen – with the existing home and outdoor living features like a pool, hardscaping or landscaping.” In this case, explains Franks, the existing 25-by-15-foot pool had a craggy edge of moss rock boulders, plus a spa and firepit faced with a rough Scabos splitface travertine. “The overall look was rustic and naturalistic,” says Franks, “so we of course wanted the new outdoor kitchen island to match.” Hence the 14-foot-long outdoor kitchen island with a raised bar, also faced in the Scabos splitface travertine and topped with a Normandy granite countertop. The hardscaping around it is Kool Deck® textured concrete. “People used to shy away from busy textures in outside patio kitchen plans, but now they’re embracing them,” notes Franks. “They’re increasingly attracted to the beautiful imperfections and irregularities of nature – there’s more of an authenticity and character to it.” Now, for the high-tech part: A Traeger wood pellet grill. Traeger grills are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to infuse amazing, rich flavor and for their versatility (they can grill, bake, smoke, slow cook, braise and barbecue). This premier model, the Memphis Pro 304, features 562 square inches of cooking space and a three-in-one cooking system (high-temperature grill, low-and-low smoker and true-convection-oven roasting and baking). It also has an intuitive Intelligent Temperature Control (see the display panel to the left of the grill) that can be set for cooking and internal temperature. A programmable food probe tells you when the internal temperature is reached and drops the grill down to a programmed lower temperature to keep the food warm till serving. The dual-fan convection system, with reliable metal blades, circulates heat evenly for tender, juicy results. Double-walled and sealed construction of 304 stainless steel allows for optimum heat retention and consistent temperatures in all weather conditions. A direct-flame “flavorizer” insert delivers the added flavor of a seared finish. Outdoor Homescapes also added a mount sink with a custom oil-rubbed bronze faucet by Moen and the following RCS stainless steel accessories: a pull-out trash door, a countertop trash chute, dual horizontal grill utensil drawers and a swing-out storage door. “At first, you’d think all this technology and the smooth, modern stainless steel would fight with the rustic look of the rough-faced stone in outdoor patio kitchen plans,” says Franks. “But it actually provides some visual rest from all the rugged textures and busyness.” Serving a similar function is the smooth, polished Scabos travertine tile used for the pool coping and firepit ledge. “It’s a perfect environment for the client to entertain business associates,” says Franks. “He’s very happy with the old-meets-new approach, and so are we.” More patio kitchen plans can be found at Outdoor Homescapes of Houston’s website, at www.outdoorhomescapes.com

Modern Italian Wall Unit VV 3908 Made in Italy Perfect for both modern and contemporary styled interiors, this modular wall unit line offers lots of customization options so everyone could adjust the composition according to the individual's size and color requirements, creating an entertainment center of the dream. The living room furniture line features lots of different units, that are available in several sizes and can be wall mounted both vertically and horizontally. All the units from this entertainment center furniture collection are available in walnut, white ash, ivory ash and mink ash wood structure finishes as well as white and mud high gloss lacquers. The structure and the front doors of the same unit can be ordered in different finishes/lacquers to add unique and elegant contrast look to the wall unit design. Features: E1-Class ecological panels, which are produced exclusively through a wood recycling production process The structure and the front in wood finishes are made of chipboard The lacquered structures and fronts are made of REAL POLISH SCRATCH PROOF LACQUERING, which is non toxic and non allergic products All the panels are 0.7" thick Drawers mounted on metal runners with MDF bottom panel, height adjustable and soft-close system Metal snap-on hinges with adjustable height The starting price is for the VV Wall Unit Composition 3908 as shown in the main picture in Mink Ash / Mud Lacquer finishes. (Consists of: Base Drawer Cabinet W47.2" x H10.2", Two Base Drawer Cabinets W47.2" x H17.7" each, TV Panel W47.2", Two Vertical Hanging Units H47.2" each, Vertical Hanging Bookcase H47.2", Two Horizontal Hanging Units W47.2" each). Dimensions: Wall Unit: W142" x D18.3" x H79" Individual Components: Base Drawer Cabinet H10": W47.2" x D18.3" x H10.2" Base Drawer Cabinet H17.7": W47.2" x D18.3" x H17.7" Horizontal Hanging Unit: W47.2" x D13.8" x H13.4" Vertical Hanging Unit: W13.4" x D13.8" x H47.2" Vertical Hanging Bookcase: W13.4" x D13.8" x H47.2" TV Panel: W47.2" x D0.8" x H35.4"

This project consisted of renovating an existing 17 stall stable and indoor riding arena, 3,800 square foot residence, and the surrounding grounds. The renovated stable boasts an added office and was reduced to 9 larger stalls, each with a new run. The residence was renovated and enlarged to 6,600 square feet and includes a new recording studio and a pool with adjacent covered entertaining space. The landscape was minimally altered, all the while, utilizing detailed space management which makes use of the small site, In addition, arena renovation required successful resolution of site water runoff issues, as well as the implementation of a manure composting system for stable waste. The project created a cohesive, efficient, private facility. - See more at: http://equinefacilitydesign.com/project-item/three-sons-ranch#sthash.wordIM9U.dpuf

This project consisted of renovating an existing 17 stall stable and indoor riding arena, 3,800 square foot residence, and the surrounding grounds. The renovated stable boasts an added office and was reduced to 9 larger stalls, each with a new run. The residence was renovated and enlarged to 6,600 square feet and includes a new recording studio and a pool with adjacent covered entertaining space. The landscape was minimally altered, all the while, utilizing detailed space management which makes use of the small site, In addition, arena renovation required successful resolution of site water runoff issues, as well as the implementation of a manure composting system for stable waste. The project created a cohesive, efficient, private facility. - See more at: http://equinefacilitydesign.com/project-item/three-sons-ranch#sthash.wordIM9U.dpuf

In the summer of 2012 we embarked on a remodel of our 1912 Craftsman. We wanted to redo the kitchen and the upper floor which contained the master bedroom, bathroom, guest room and office. We interviewed approximately 5 other architects prior to finding Mark. We knew right away he was the right person for the job. He was patient, thorough and we could tell he truly loved our home and wanted to work with us to make it even better. His vast experience showed through during the interview process which validated his portfolio. Mark truly became a trusted advisor who would guide us through this remodel process from beginning to end. His planning was precise and he came by many times to re-measure to get every detail accounted for. He was patient and helpful as we made decisions and then changed our minds! He was with us every week of the 10 weeks of the remodel. He attended each weekly meeting with the General Contractor and was at the house numerous other times guiding and really looking out for our best interests. I came to trust him enough to ask his opinion on almost everything from layout to colors and decorating tips! He consistently threw out ideas....many of which we took. Additionally Mark was a tremendous help in referring us to contractors, designers, and retailers to help us along the way. I am ecstatic over the results of the remodel. The kitchen and bath are truly beautiful and full of modern conveniences while maintaining the integrity of the 1912 structure. We were right about our decision to hire Mark and we wholehearted recommend him as an outstanding architect, and more!!

Modern Italian Wall Unit VV 3924 Made in Italy Perfect for both modern and contemporary styled interiors, this modular wall unit line offers lots of customization options so everyone could adjust the composition according to the individual's size and color requirements, creating an entertainment center of the dream. The wall unit line features lots of different units, that are available in several sizes and can wall mounted both vertically and horizontally. All the units from this entertainment center furniture collection are available in walnut, white ash, ivory ash and mink ash wood structure finishes as well as white and mud high gloss lacquers. The structure and the front doors of the same unit can be ordered in different finishes/lacquers to add unique and elegant contrast look to the wall unit design. Features: E1-Class ecological panels, which are produced exclusively through a wood recycling production process The structure and the front in wood finishes are made of chipboard The lacquered structures and fronts are made of REAL POLISH SCRATCH PROOF LACQUERING, which is non toxic and non allergic products All the panels are 0.7" thick Drawers mounted on metal runners with MDF bottom panel, height adjustable and soft-close system Metal snap-on hinges with adjustable height The starting price is for the VV Wall Unit Composition 3924 as shown in the main picture in Mink Ash / Mud Lacquer finishes. (Consists of: Hanging Base Drawer Cabinet H10.2" x W35.4", Hanging Base Drawer Cabinet H10.2" x W59", Six Horizontal Hanging Units W35.4" each). Dimensions: Wall Unit: W106.3" x D18.3" x H74.8" Individual Components: Hanging Base Drawer Cabinet H10.2": W35.4" x D18.3" x H10.2" Hanging Base Drawer Cabinet H10.2": W59" x D18.3" x H10.2" Horizontal Hanging Unit: W35.4" x D13.8" x H13.4"

This is a wonderful lap pool that has a taste of modern with the clean lines and cement cabana that also has a flair of the rustic with wood beams and a hill country stone bench. It also has a simple grass lawn that has very large planters as signature statements to once again give it a modern feel. Photography by Vernon Wentz of Ad Imagery

Terran Landscapes http://www.terranlandscapes.com Project Entry: Fishers Woodland Garden 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Theme Garden $15,000-$30,000 Award Level: Bronze Photo Description: We were contracted by the client to design a calming space for their staff to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a leisurely lunch as well as to provide their grandchildren a place to run and pick flowers. The space was originally dominated by large trees and had been overgrown with ivy, sumac and aggressive vines, providing an unwelcome, dark space with little color or visual appeal. The client requested a colorful blend of shrubs and perennials that would provide interest throughout the seasons, as well as provide privacy by screening the street traffic along Carisbrooke Road. Our goal was to create the privacy screen along the road by layering plants from the ground to the tree canopy. The theme was to let nature inspire the landscape, allowing a space that was originally woodland to become an enhanced version of itself, creating a beautiful habitat for birds and butterflies to excite the senses and satisfy all who enjoy the beauty of nature. We began by clearing the brush and removing all aggressive vines and ivy that jeopardized the health of the trees. We kept and transplanted all non- invasive or native plant material in the area to various locations throughout the property. Several yards of compost were then tilled into the soil and the existing trees fertilized to provide a rich growing environment. A few challenges occurred during the design process. It was decided that a new generator was to be installed in the woodland and due to a future addition to the house, we were forced to eliminate planned additional impervious pathway surfaces. We provided screening to hide the generator and buffer the noise, and created a meandering path and sitting area out of natural woodchips instead of the proposed bluestone to solve the impervious space issue. The woodchips add a sense of informality and invite the viewer to walk slowly through the space. The reduced noise from the additional screening of the generator allows for quiet reflection as chipmunks scurry and hummingbirds dart about between the flowers. Our plant palette consists of shady understory plants that thrive and flower vigorously from spring through fall. A tall, lush, evergreen backdrop of Ilex opaca and Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’ provides the screening and blends into a middle layer of ‘Ivory Halo’ dogwood, hydrangeas and winterberry hollies. Beautiful perennials and groundcovers bloom along the woodland path, providing a low visual layer of color and texture. Movement throughout the garden is provided by the graceful Calamagrostis brachytricha and Hakenchloa that soften the nearby hardscaping. The woodland floor is full of shade-loving Solomon’s seal, hosta, astilbe, ferns, bleeding heart, Tiarella and Aconitum. The street side of this woodland required plants with a preference for a little more sun and drought tolerance. A palette of oakleaf hydrangea, Agastache, Liatris and Rudbeckia softens the fence line and provides the desired color. As designed and installed, the woodland garden successfully provides the client’s family and office staff a quiet space where they can take a peaceful moment and enjoy nature. Photo Credit: Lisa C. Falls

The Rex by LC Mobili is an ultra modern Italian Dining & Living room furniture collection. This unique line consists of a selection of modular units that can be arranged in a limitless amount of variations creating your individual furniture: sideboards, highboards, glass vitrines, TV Stands - all possible storage cabinets according to your specific requirements. All the units are available in either White or Anthracite Matt colors and can stand on plinth or lacquered metal legs. The Rex Wall Unit Composition 01, shown in the main picture, features: 3-Drawer TV Stand, 4-Door Highboard and 4-Door & 2-Drawer Glass Vitrine. This wall unit provides everything need for a modern home - lots of hidden and exposed storage space and a TV stand for placing all your electronic devices. Click Here to Browse entire collection of Rex storage cabinets. Contact our office to get a quote for a customization of any of this wall unit composition or any other modular unit from Rex Collection! MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION: E1-Class ecological panels, which are produced exclusively through a wood recycling production process The structures and the fronts in lacquered finishes are made of chipboard Soft-closing drawer glides and door hinges Requires assembly (only drawer units come assembled) The starting price is for the Wall Unit Rex 01 as shown in the main picture. Lights are not included in the price! Dimensions: Wall Unit: W169.3" x D20" x H68.5" (on legs) or H59" (on plinth) Individual Units: TV Stand: W72.5" x D20" x H19" (on legs) or H10" (on plinth) Highboard: W48.4" x D20" x H59.5" (on legs) or H50" (on plinth) Glass Vitrine: W48.4" x D20" x H68.5" (on legs) or H59" (on plinth)

Contemporary Italian Wall Unit Paris 602 by Artigian Mobili, Italy. Paris wall unit and entertainment center is unique for its contemporary design with some traditional classic elements. Paris wall unit line can easily decorate your home, making your living room beautiful and functional at the same time. Paris is a modular collection that consists of a variety of units that are available in different sizes, giving you an opportunity to customize the wall unit composition according your own dimensions, design ideas and functional requirements. The structure and fronts of the units can be ordered in a Cherry wood stain finish or in one of the available Matt Lacquers as well for the extra charge in a your custom RAL COLOR, either gloss or matt! Please, select from the pre-designed wall unit compositions or build your own according to your personal requirements. Please contact our office regarding customization of this wall unit composition. MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION: Structure - 18 mm (0.7") thick wooden particles melamine panels Sides, shelves, tops and bases - 30 mm (1.2") thick wooden particles melamine panels Drawer/Doors feature SOLID wooden frame with clear glass or veneered panel either finished or lacquered The lacquered structures and fronts are made of REAL LACQUERING, which is non toxic and non allergic product The starting price is for the Wall Unit Composition as shown in the main picture in Cherry finish. Dimensions: Wall Unit: W118" x D11.4"/22.5" x H74.8" TV Space: W47.2" x H41"

The TropiCool® Water Chiller is designed to lower the temperature of your swimming pool to a refreshing and enjoyable experience throughout the summer. A heat pump gives you consistent performance, while evaporative cooling systems struggle to keep up in humid climates. Set your desired temperature to maintain Helps conserve water, does not work on evaporation Consistent performance regardless of humidity Titanium heat exchanger impervious to harsh water chemistry New SMART control panel with 24 character full-text display provides easy-to-read menu options and unit status TC1500 features the world’s ONLY integrated AquaTop which ensures optimal air flow for maximum efficiency and prevents debris from getting inside the heat pump Ability to chill as low as 40° F for cold plunge pools TC500 for cold plunge up to 2,000 gallons TC1000 for cold plunge up to 3,000 gallons TC1500 for cold plunge up to 4,000 gallons Cold plunge pool sizes refer to residential use only. The bather load of a commercial plunge pool will require a larger unit.

FORM QUARTZ Quartz Slab The Form Quartz Slab collection from Walker Zanger is a precise embodiment of the dictum ''form follows function.'' In this case, the function required is a maintenance free, durable countertop that will stand up to even the most vigorous use. Form Quartz Slabs meet this functional requirement in an beautiful array of neutral hues, consistent from slab to slab, crafted from pure quartz and high quality pigments and resins. Usage: Residential: All interior horizontal and vertical surfaces. Commercial: All interior horizontal and vertical surfaces. Form Quartz is not recommended for outdoor use. Also see Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Sewell Design was commissioned with the responsibility of undertaking the design of this residence for a young family who required a design that would cater for the living requirements of their family currently and for the future. Perched high on top of a hill within a rural setting, this two storey residence was designed to reflect the style of a modern country 'Queenslander' that was capable of encompassing all of the extensive rural landscape views on offer. Symmetrically balanced wall and window proportions, large articulated verandah areas and painted timber trims contribute to the style and detailing of the design. An octagonal 'rotunda' and 'turret' type roof extension of the verandah at the north east corner of the residence provides an outdoor entertaining area for the enjoyment of the extensive views on offer and provides direct sunlight access. A large family home consisting of 5 bedrooms each with walk in robe, guest bedroom with own ensuite, office, formal lounge, kitchen, dining and main living area, theatre room and rumpus room, this residence has all the space needed for the future needs of the occupants.

Asclepias sullivantii / Sullivant's Milkweed Photo: Justin Meissen, via Flickr, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic
Inspiration for a landscaping in Other.

This spectacular entryway for the Hayden, Idaho, custom estate acts as a technical architectural bridge. By integrating specialized artisan millwork with advanced smart-home connectivity and complex climate engineering, we’ve created a high-performance first impression that sets the standard for the entire residence. High-Performance Architecture: Custom Entry & Smart Integration This entryway serves as a technical showcase, blending rustic artisan craftsmanship with high-capacity environmental control. We engineered this high-volume space to function as a thermal and visual bridge, leveraging specialized Knotty Alder millwork and advanced construction techniques to prepare visitors for the complexity found deeper in the home (like the 18-head steam suite!). Technical & Artisan Highlights: Custom Aagesen Millworks Door: The focal point is the substantial, hand-crafted Knotty Alder entry door, fabricated by Aagesen Millworks. We integrated a large upper-glass panel featuring a custom "raindrop" texture for immediate architectural interest and privacy, setting an artisan tone for the entire residence. Complex Fenestration Matrix: We engineered this wall with a sophisticated array of matching side-lights and a spectacular semicircular transom window. This complex framing assembly requires precise geometry and structural integration to ensure maximum daylight infiltration while maintaining high-efficiency environmental performance. Architectural Woodwork Integration: The entry door and windows are anchored by a continuous, massive Knotty Alder header and casing assembly. Note the thick, rustic cross-header that bridges the central opening, creating a robust, unified archway that emphasizes the vaulting architecture. Invisible HVAC Integration: To handle the significant volume of this vaulted space, we installed an invisible thermostat-controlled radiant heating system beneath the large-format dark grey tile. This provides consistent, "cold-spot-free" warmth across the entire floor plan. (Note the technical complexity required to fit the baseboard registers into the substantial wood base). Smart Security & Continuity: This entry features integrated high-end dark bronze security and locking hardware (visible on the right-hand jamb), providing professional-grade protection. We ensured design continuity by utilizing the same rustic wood tones and heavy-gauge bronze that are echoed on the specialized DTV plumbing controls in the master en-suite.

M-S Pro Architects announce the completion of an indoor swimming pool in a state-of-the-art, single storey family home set in a picturesque location on the outskirts of Bratislava - one of Europe’s youngest capital cities. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was chosen to craft the ceiling of the swimming pool, which is designed to emulate rippling waves as well as for the terrace deck and structural beams. Sustainability and a desire to recreate the close proximity often seen between wood and water in the natural environment were primary focuses in the design of this project. This led a requirement for a low maintenance wood, compatible humidity and with advanced durability, for the swimming pool ceiling. In addition, a high level of precision when cutting the wood was required in order to achieve the desired appearance of waves. Supplied by Leading Market, Kebony was carefully selected for the pool ceiling, which consists of 490 lamellae of timber, due to its versatility, durability and environmental credentials. Kebony was also installed throughout the exterior of this property, both for the spacious outdoor terrace and the exterior and interior beams. One of the reasons to choose Kebony was the unified look of wood in all these different applications. Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall with furfuryl alcohol, the wood gains greatly improved durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. In creating a wood with comparable properties to tropical hardwood that can be grown in a FSC certified, sustainably managed forest, the demand for tropical woods is reduced, allowing timber to once again be an important part of sustainable construction. Tomáš Hubinský, Lead Architect at M-S Pro, commented: “From conception through to completion, the creation of this ceiling has been a real feat. Despite the challenges faced by such an intricate design, Kebony was the perfect material to convey our desired effect of waves rippling along the ceiling. We will continue to incorporate Kebony into our interior and exterior designs, with wood fast becoming the first choice material for all architects.” Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony, explained: “The distinctive nature of this design cleverly portrays the capability of Kebony, demonstrating both the aesthetic and performance qualities of the product. We would be honoured to work with M-S Pro in the future and look forward to seeing how they utilise Kebony in their future projects.”

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.