Search results for "Require strong" in Home Design Ideas

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots.
The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen.
As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family.
Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan.
The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views.
Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life.
Outcomes and Lasting Impact
The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place.
Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard.
Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners.
Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes
Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc.
Contractor: Golden Snail Builders
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed:2022

Jennifer Taylor Home's Catherine is an antique white woven Queen headboard which makes it the perfect addition to any bedroom looking to add a bit of a modern or contemporary flair. Upholstered with a cotton and linen blend, this clean and simple yet elegant design is lovely placed in your master suite or any bedroom. Regardless of anywhere you place this headboard in your home; the Catherine’s unique woven design will catch anyone's eye and draw attention the room. This Queen headboard will help light up your room and give that refreshing and clean look that’ll be sure to please anyone who walks in.
Features:
- Height adjustable legs to allow the perfect height for your preference
- Strong and sturdy steam dried hardwood frame is solidly made with plywood and Birchwood to ensure maximum support and longevity
- Quality hand built, painted, and rubbed by experienced furniture craftsmen and women to guarantee this piece lasts a lifetime
- Made with fire retardant foam
- Dry clean or spot clean only
- Some assembly required
- Dimensions: 64.5"W x 3"D x 58-63"H
- Weight: 28LBs

Jennifer Taylor Home's Brooklyn is a velvet opal grey King headboard set which makes it the perfect addition to any bedroom looking to add a bit of a modern or contemporary flair. Upholstered with 100% polyester, this simple yet elegant headboard set with hand tufted design on both the headboard and foot board is lovely placed in your master suite or any bedroom. Regardless of anywhere you place this headboard set in your home; the Brooklyn's soft colored design will catch anyone's eye and draw attention the room. This King headboard set will help light up your room and give that refreshing and clean look that’ll be sure to please anyone who walks in.
Features:
- Strong and sturdy steam dried hardwood frame is solidly made with plywood and Birchwood to ensure maximum support and longevity
- Quality hand built, painted, and rubbed by experienced furniture craftsmen and women to guarantee this piece lasts a lifetime
- Made with fire retardant foam
- Dry clean or spot clean only
- Some assembly required
- Dimensions: 86.5"Lx87.5"Wx61"H
Find the right local pro for your project

This is not just an outdoor cover. This is a lifestyle upgrade built to impress, rain or shine.
The Azenco R-BLADE™ is a fully adjustable louvered roof system engineered for precision, beauty, and year-round comfort. Each motorized louver rotates silently to give you control over light, ventilation, and protection with the touch of a button. Open up to the sunshine. Close tightly during rain. Stay cool under soft shade. The system even drains water internally through hidden gutters for a sleek, dry finish after a storm.
Crafted from high-grade powder-coated aluminum, the R-BLADE™ resists corrosion, warping, and fading over time. Unlike traditional wooden pergolas or basic metal covers that weather poorly or require constant maintenance, this structure delivers long-lasting performance with a modern, seamless aesthetic.
This featured installation blends a bright white frame with contrasting matte louvers; Perfectly suited for transitional homes that want to balance elegance with innovation. From family dinners to game-day gatherings, it creates a versatile outdoor room that feels like a natural extension of your home.
Built smart. Styled strong. Loved year-round.
Let’s help you design a space that adapts with the weather and your life.
Book your outdoor living consultation today: 516-522-8249

Michael Carroll. In this elegant and simple kitchen renovation, the owner wanted to add extra lighting to two places in the kitchen that are normally too dark - the under cabinet area, and in each of the cabinets, and he wanted to do this without having to do extra drilling and having to create excessive large lighting fixtures. Here LED Strip Light in beautiful Warm White was used in both applications, which not only created bright linear lighting, but was easy to install with minimal installation work and the LED lighting lit the entire surface without creating odd shadows. In each of the pictures the finished renovation is shown and also pictures of the work in progress, showing how the simple barrel connectors, and slide and lock LED Strip Light connectors easily come together for easy connections that do not require soldering. All of the lighting for both the undercabinet areas and in the cabinets are controlled using the iTouch LED Dimmer, which comes with strong double sided sticky back tape which, as shown here, has been carefully tucked up and behind the lip of the cabinet, for easy on/off and dimming control without the unsightly and design-disturbing traditional light switch.

The owners of this multi-family housing project in Aptos felt strongly about creating both beautiful views and privacy for each home. We also really wanted to encourage people to spend time outside through the creation of shared community space. When I arrived, there was over 8,000 square feet of dead brown grass carpeting the complex. Now, a long, sinuous dry-creek runs the length of the property. The drycreek is surrounded by tough plants which require very minimal water and maintenance. We used enormous trees for privacy in key locations, along with a central community gathering area complete with a commercial grade built-in BBQ and bench seating. A large, strategically placed arbor provides shade for the dining area at the hottest time of the afternoon. New lighting illuminates pathways and trees and residents can enjoy the space at any time of day.

I was contacted about a Georgian property in the Kent village of Leeds , to see if I could do anything to improve a Travertine tiled floor. The use of Travertine was extensive and had been installed throughout the ground floor including the kitchen, dining room, utility and bathroom WC. Travertine is probably my favourite stone, but it is acid sensitive and attracts dirt easily, due to its ‘holey’ composition.
Initially we discussed the floor over the phone where I got to know about the issues they were experiencing, and I detailed the renovation process I normally use to restore it including the products and timelines. Naturally they wanted to me to provide a quote for the work however its tricky to do that accurately without seeing the floor, so I arranged a date to pop over.
Upon arriving I could see the tiles and the wide grout joints had extensive, ingrained dirt indicating the previous sealer had long since worn away. This is a common issue with stone floors, and to re-assure myself and the client it could be resolved I cleaned a small area in the utility room with pleasing results!
This test clean helped me to understand which products and methods would work best on the floor and later that day I emailed over a detailed quote for the renovation. Happy with the quote I received a reply the same day asking when I could start.
My colleague and I arrived on the agreed date and work started with adding protection to all areas that required it. We use a lot of water during the cleaning process and some materials such as MDF can become damaged with water ingress, so it makes sense to do this.
To get the floor clean, a coarse Carbide Brush fitted to a rotary machine was run over the Travertine tiles to scrub in a strong solution of Tile Doctor Pro-Clean. This process generates a lot of slurry as the dirt was washed out of the stone and grout which is extracted with a wet vacuum as we progressed.
Next it was on hands and knees with more Tile Doctor Pro-Clean and handheld brushes run over stubborn areas and along the grout lines to take them from 80% up to 100%.
Happy with the results, the next step was to renovate the stone using a series of diamond encrusted burnishing pads. Using only water for lubrication this process starts with the application of a coarse 400-grit burnishing pad attached to the floor buffer. This produces a lot of slurry which again was removed with a wet vacuum.
This left the Travertine clean, but the pores of the stone had been opened giving the floor a matt finish and more absorbent than it was originally. To further refine the appearance of the stone the next two burnishing pads were applied which are 800 and 1500-grit. These pads polish the stone and close the pores, restoring the natural sheen in the process. After each pad was applied the slurry was rinsed off the floor with water and extracted with the wet vacuum. Once complete the floor was left to dry off fully overnight.
I arrived the next day and took several moisture readings from the floor to check that it had dried off sufficiently overnight. The results were good, so work moved onto sealing the Travertine with two coats of Tile Doctor Ultra Seal which is a natural look impregnating sealer. It works by soaking into the stone, occupying the pores and thereby preventing dirt from becoming ingrained there. This ensures dirt remains on the surface where it is easily cleaned away.
The final step in the floor’s renovation was to apply the last of the diamond polishing pads which is a very fine 3000-grit. This pad further improves the polished appearance of the stone resulting in a satisfying sheen.
The work made a massive difference to the floor, and I received an email the next day from one of the owners who was really pleased with the transformation:
”Floors look brilliant. Very pleased.”
For the care and maintenance of polished sealed floors I recommend the use of Tile Doctor’s Stone Soap which is a gentle but effective cleaning product that won’t impact the sealer and contains a patina enhancer. When it comes to sealed floors my mantra is:
“If you look after the sealer, the sealer will look after the floor!”
Graham Davis
North Kent Tile Doctor

Carefully orientated and sited on the edge of small plateau this house looks out across the rolling countryside of North Canterbury. The 3-bedroom rural family home is an exemplar of simplicity done with care and precision.
Tucked in alongside a private limestone quarry with cows grazing in the distance the choice of materials are intuitively natural and implemented with bare authenticity.
Oiled random width cedar weatherboards are contemporary and rustic, the polished concrete floors with exposed aggregate tie in wonderfully to the adjacent limestone cliffs, and the clean folded wall to roof, envelopes the building from the sheltered south to the amazing views to the north. Designed to portray purity of form the outer metal surface provides enclosure and shelter from the elements, while its inner face is a continuous skin of hoop pine timber from inside to out.
The hoop pine linings bend up the inner walls to form the ceiling and then soar continuous outward past the full height glazing to become the outside soffit. The bold vertical lines of the panel joins are strongly expressed aligning with windows and jambs, they guild the eye up and out so as you step in through the sheltered Southern entrances the landscape flows out in front of you.
Every detail required careful thought in design and craft in construction. As two simple boxes joined by a glass link, a house that sits so beautifully in the landscape was deceptively challenging, and stands as a credit to our client passion for their new home & the builders craftsmanship to see it though, it is a end result we are all very proud to have been a part of.

Jennifer Taylor Home's Catherine is wood ash Queen headboard which makes it the perfect addition to any bedroom looking to add a bit of a modern or contemporary flair. Upholstered with a cotton and linen blend, this clean and simple yet elegant design is lovely placed in your master suite or any bedroom. Regardless of anywhere you place this headboard in your home; the Catherine’s unique woven design will catch anyone's eye and draw attention the room. This Queen headboard will help light up your room and give that refreshing and clean look that’ll be sure to please anyone who walks in.
Features:
- Height adjustable legs to allow the perfect height for your preference
- Strong and sturdy steam dried hardwood frame is solidly made with plywood and Birchwood to ensure maximum support and longevity
- Quality hand built, painted, and rubbed by experienced furniture craftsmen and women to guarantee this piece lasts a lifetime
- Made with fire retardant foam
- Dry clean or spot clean only
- Some assembly required
- Dimensions: 64.5"W x 3"D x 58-63"H
- Weight: 28LBs

This thoughtfully designed home required multiple custom staircases, each blending farmhouse charm with contemporary elegance. Gleaming oak treads, substantial wooden newels, and floating white oak handrail systems create a look that's both traditional and refined. Each staircase seamlessly connects the home's strong farmhouse character with modern living spaces, proving that old-fashioned charm and contemporary design don't just coexist. They elevate each other.
1976-2026 © Century Stair Company

Set in a quiet neighborhood and framed by mature trees, this residence presented a unique opportunity: to thoughtfully evolve a custom mid-century modern home into a space that supports the everyday rhythms of a growing family. With a deep respect for the home’s original architecture, Klopf Architecture reimagined the house to better meet the needs of its owners—introducing functional improvements while preserving the spirit and character of its mid-century roots.
The clients approached Klopf Architecture with a clear vision: refresh their home while seamlessly integrating new programmatic elements. Key goals included clarifying and enhancing the entry sequence; connecting the detached garage to the main house with a practical yet architecturally intentional intervention; adding functional spaces such as a mudroom and laundry room; expanding and remodeling the primary suite’s bathroom and closet; and creating a more engaging outdoor space that capitalized on the site’s impressive views, featuring a fire pit and outdoor kitchen.
As a couple with distinct yet complementary perspectives—one focused on modern functionality and technology, and the other dedicated to preserving the home’s architectural integrity—their collaboration with Klopf Architecture resulted in a solution that harmonized both ideals. Their shared commitment to improving the livability of their home led to a design dialogue rooted in balance. This dynamic partnership shaped the direction of the renovation, ensuring that every decision honored the spirit of the original home while aligning with the practical needs of their growing family.
Designing within the constraints of the sloped site posed one of the project’s central challenges. The detached garage sat at a higher elevation than the main house, requiring a solution that ensured architectural and geometric compatibility between the two structures. Rather than create a purely utilitarian link, Klopf Architecture introduced an intentional connection that contributes to the overall architectural language. A notable pinch point in the plan—where differing geometries converged—was treated as a hinge point, turning a potentially awkward juncture into an architectural feature. This area now functions as both a transition and a moment of design interest that unifies the overall plan.
The design also addressed the underutilized outdoor area, which was located in a shadowed portion of the site with geometrical limitations. A new connection to the rear deck was created in this same area, making the outdoor space more useful and inviting. Klopf Architecture introduced carefully positioned openings and spatial improvements that forged a strong visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor area now reads as a deliberate extension of the home, embracing natural light and emphasizing the dramatic views.
Working through multiple design iterations, Klopf Architecture crafted a solution that preserved the architectural language of the original home while supporting the functional needs of modern life. The garage-to-house connection became more than a passage—it evolved into an architectural moment of transition. A new mudroom and laundry space enhanced convenience without compromising the clean lines of the design. The primary suite was expanded to create a private, serene retreat. The reimagined backyard, complete with fire pit and kitchen, now plays a vital role in the family’s daily routine and social life.
Outcomes and Lasting Impact
The result is a home that balances heritage with contemporary design, technical precision with design sensibility. The redesign not only met the clients’ initial goals but also exceeded expectations in its ability to seamlessly blend past and present, function and beauty, making the outdoor kitchen a favorite gathering place.
Beyond aesthetics, the renovation has significantly improved daily life for the family. The newly integrated garage connection has streamlined routines, providing a seamless transition between arriving home, storing belongings, and entering the main living spaces. The expanded primary suite offers a retreat-like atmosphere, creating a private space to unwind at the end of the day. The redesigned outdoor areas have also become an extension of their lifestyle—whether it's casual family dinners around the fire pit, entertaining friends in the outdoor kitchen, or simply enjoying the view from the reimagined backyard.
Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, the house has been successfully evolved into a home that remains true to its mid-century modern roots while enhancing livability, functionality, and the overall quality of life for the modern-day owners.
Klopf Architecture Team: Geoffrey Campen, Fernanda Bernardes
Architectural Interior Design: Klopf Architecture
Structural Engineer: Base Design Inc.
Contractor: Golden Snail Builders
Photography: Mariko Reed
Year Completed:2022

Originally built in 1809 and situated on 20+ acres, this country farm house was extensively renovated to serve as a getaway for the owners. With a strong desire to entertain, play, swim and relax, the owners requirement for spatial flexibility provided context for the various design interventions. To make use of the relatively small upper floors of the main house, a new stair tower was created external to the main footprint. Separated by glass and clad in copper the tower modernizes the property while referencing its history. The ground floor restores the historic fireplace and rock walls and is opened to the sprawling hillside, creek and pool through a retractable glazing system. Throughout the project’s interior, are unique moments of mixed materials, pattern and texture. The chef’s kitchen is warmly detailed with glazed tiles, steel and wood and is accented with found relics making up the island. Many of the wood floors, ceilings, and furniture were milled from fallen walnut, oak and elm trees harvested from the property. The guest house is executed in a minimalist Japanese palate and highlighted by exquisite detailing. The garage was rebuilt and expanded with an art studio and work/play space.

This historic home in Oak Park was in need of updating, with deferred maintenance inside and out requiring extensive work. This created an opportunity to rethink the house for a modern family in the 21st century, with an updated plan, a strong connection to the yard from the kitchen and new mudroom, covered patio, and flexible rooms for work-at-home, gym, or guest functions. The insulation and mechanical systems were upgraded to Phius levels, and a solar PV array added to meet annual net zero energy performance. With minimal upfront energy expenditure, the home’s operational carbon was reduced by 100%, and the house is a delightful place for the young family to grow into.

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.

This historic home in Oak Park was in need of updating, with deferred maintenance inside and out requiring extensive work. This created an opportunity to rethink the house for a modern family in the 21st century, with an updated plan, a strong connection to the yard from the kitchen and new mudroom, covered patio, and flexible rooms for work-at-home, gym, or guest functions. The insulation and mechanical systems were upgraded to Phius levels, and a solar PV array added to meet annual net zero energy performance. With minimal upfront energy expenditure, the home’s operational carbon was reduced by 100%, and the house is a delightful place for the young family to grow into.

This is New Nanoglass Created by China Marmoglass Co.,Limited.
New Manoglass - Italy Serpeggiante Marble
You can contact us for stock slab and price imediately !
Slab Sizes:
240/300x120/134/140/160/180cm
Tile Size:
300x600x12mm 12"x24"x1/2"
600x600x12mm 24"x24"x1/2"
300x600x18mm 12"x24"x3/4"
600x600x18mm 24"x24"x3/4"
800x800x18mm 32"x32"x3/4"
900x900x18mm 36"x36"x3/4"
1000x1000x18mm 40"x40"x3/4"
1200x1200x18mm 48"x48"x3/4"
2460x1240x18mm 96"x48"x3/4"
2860x1340x18mm 110"x52"x3/4"
3060x1340x18mm 120"x52"x3/4"
Advantages:
1. Compact structure: Molecular microcrystalline particle size of the super nanoglass reaches the nanometer level. Fibrous crystal molecular structure makes it excellent material for processing such as round cutting, drilling, carving, 45°cutting and other edge design processing to users’ requirement.
2. Easy-to-cut: Cutting can be done at the construction site by the bridge cutting machine and portable cutting machine.
3. High hardness: The hardness Mohs of the surface reaches at Level
4. High compressive strength, high tensile strength. No white off, no deformation and no crack even it is exposed to the sunlight. The special feature makes it widely used in the floor laying.
5. Low expansion coefficient: Super nanoglass can bear the temperature range from -18C to 1000C with no influence on the structure, color and shape.
6. Corrosion resistance and acid & alkali resistance, and color will not fade off and strength stays same after a long period of time.
7. No water and dirt absorption. It is easy and convenient to be cleaned.
8. Non-radioactive, environmental friendly and reusable.
Application:
Used in the decorative building as the floor, exterior and interior wall, column, kitchen countertop, countertops, tabletop, stair railing, skirting, hospital laboratory work bench, various handicrafts and others.
Finish Options: Polished, Honed, Sandblast, Bushharmered
Packing: Packed in fumigated strong wooden bundles, reinforced with metal strap outside
Item Code: GS001, SN002, Nano2011, Nano3, Marmo2015
Thickness tolerance: +/-1mm
All products checked by experienced QC pieces by pieces and then pack
Our Advantage:
1) Factory Pirce, Directly shipping
2) High Quality with Well Technology on Marmoglass E Nanoglass for more than 10 Years
3) Well equipped with complete facilities and a wealth of experienced & talented staffs
4) High Quality, competitive prices, fast delivery time and good service are our foremost concern.
5) Have Project Experience for super market, Villa, Hotel, Hostipal, Temple and so on.
You are welcome to contact us any time for further information. We hope for any opportunity to work with you.

Our doors have several superior features:
- Metal-plastic doors – lighter than iron and steel doors, but no less strong and reliable! Scratch and impact resistance, easy of care and environmentally friendly
- In principle, we use only all-welded reinforcement, 1/10" thick (!) for the entrance doors. Such reinforcement is a necessary condition for real burglary resistance.
- We use an aluminum threshold with a special thermal insert that cuts off the cold from the room. We also complete with an amplifier to securely fix the bottom of the door and cut off the cold.
- HPL sandwich panel, consists of foamed extruded Styrofoam, with rigid PVC overlays high pressure on both sides.
- Energy savings double-glazed safety windows.
- Quality insulation serves to reduce unwanted external noise, as well as protect against extreme heat, and severe cold.
Introducing the Manux collection of modern metal-plastic doors in a stunning white silk color. These doors are expertly crafted from durable metal-plastic material and feature European roller hinges and an aluminum threshold, ensuring both longevity and security for your home.
Model - 8666 Manux
Color - Black
Glass - Safety Tempered Clear glass.
Door thickness - 2 3/4"
Frame thickness - 2 3/4"
Exterior design - Coating of the door - Matte Black finish, Full clear glass.
Interior design - Coating of the door - Matte Black finish, Full clear glass.
Hardware included:
- Aluminum frame 2 3/4" thick - dimensions of the door 72" x 80" with the frame is 74" x 82".
- Aluminum threshold.
- Plate-type, primary lock for armoured type of metal-plastic (uPVC) doors, doors are captured in 3 places. The lock has replaceable core and 5 keys.
- Cylinder.
- 3D Hinges.
- Turnknob for cylinder.
- Handles
Each door comes prehung in a sturdy frame for easy installation. Sidelites (if included) can be installed on either the right or left side of the door - the design is universal. Please note: sidelites ship separately and require simple assembly on site.
A canopy over the door is recommended to maintain the warranty.

Challenge: Our clients wanted to modernize the look of their 1997 home, and update all electrical and plumbing infrastructure. Structural issues were apparent at the onset of the project with missing bearing points and beams that should have been incorporated into the original build.
Solution: The work started with a complete strip out of the interior. Existing finishes, appliances, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, electrical, plumbing, doors and frames, heating systems, all trim, drywall, insulation and vapour barrier we all removed. This left a bare wood frame shell which required some tricky structural changes to open up the interior necessitating load transfer modifications and additional foundations.
The main stair was widened to create a luxurious ascent to the master bedroom overlooking the golf course. All bathrooms were fully replaced with a new kitchen designed to be open to the dining room and living room. The new interior finishes, and the essential design thereof, came together smoothly with all trades meeting agreed time frames and prices.
We had a great time working with the client throughout the project. Communication was strong during the course of construction which resulted in a renovation that exceeded the client’s criteria and that also met our exacting level of quality.

Leader Online, a UK-based company, approached us to support the launch of Nosa, a new sanitary ware brand targeting the British market.
With competition in the sector increasing, they required a cohesive set of visuals for their numerous products to establish a consistent visual language across e-commerce platforms, catalogs, and promotional materials.
It was a complete brand creation from scratch, and we pulled it off.
Key tasks:
- Develop a cohesive visual brand identity for Nosa
- Produce over 2,000 high-quality 3D visualizations
within five months
- Optimize workflows for high efficiency and a unified
visual standard
Our approach:
To efficiently manage high production volumes and accelerate feedback, we implemented an optimized workflow system. This transformed our render production into an assembly line, drastically cutting individual product processing time while upholding top image quality.
Nosa's unique marble, with its distinct veins and inclusions, was central to their brand. Since no existing textures matched, we requested physical samples.
Upon receiving the stone, we set up an improvised photo studio, capturing every detail. Our goal was
not just to replicate the marble in 3D, but to preserve
its raw, organic beauty.
We applied the same meticulous process to metal materials for accurate shade representation. Nosa prioritized authenticity, ensuring buyers saw the true material, not an over-polished version.
Result:
Nosa's market entry surpassed all expectations.
Fueled by its compelling visual identity, the brand achieved strong initial sales and is now rapidly expanding its product range, cementing its presence.
We are proud to continue our partnership with Nosa
to this day.

The handsome Ashfie Faucet design is inspired by a traditional goblet that maintains a classic heart and is a fitting accent for today's home decor. From Ashfie Collection comes this classic yet elegant bathroom vessel faucet. Boasting an open channel waterfall spout, it displays the natural beauty of flowing water, giving you a strong yet pleasing visual effect.
- Constructed from lead-free solid brass for durability and reliability.
- Finished in a high quality, corrosion resistant brushed nickel.
- Features a waterfall spout design that delivers a gentle cascade.
- Vessel faucet for above counter sinks.
- Not suitable for low pressure. Minimum required water pressure is 0.05 MPa (0.5 bar).
- All mounting hardware and hot/cold waterlines are included.
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