Search results for "Strong performance" in Home Design Ideas

Essential, contemporary, and inviting defines this extremely energy efficient, Energy Star certified, Passive House design-inspired home in the Pacific Northwest. Designed for an active family of four, the one-story 3 bedroom, 2 bath floor plan offers tasteful aging in place features, a strong sense of privacy, and a low profile that doesn’t impinge on the natural landscape. This house will heat itself in the dead of winter with less energy than it takes to run a hair dryer, and be sensual to live in while it does it. The forms throughout the home are simple and neutral, allowing for ample natural light, rich warm materials, and of course, room for the Guinea pigs makes this a great example of artful architecture applied to a genuine family lifestyle.
This ultra energy efficient home relies on extremely high levels of insulation, air-tight detailing and construction, and the implementation of high performance, custom made European windows and doors by Zola Windows. Zola’s ThermoPlus Clad line, which boasts R-11 triple glazing and is thermally broken with a layer of patented German Purenit®, was selected for the project. Natural daylight enters both from the tilt & turn and fixed windows in the living and dining areas, and through the terrace door that leads seamlessly outside to the natural landscape.
Project Designed & Built by: artisansgroup
Certifications: Energy Star & Built Green Lvl 4
Photography: Art Gray of Art Gray Photography

I am devoted to illuminating the carbon footprint a building leaves upon the planet.
Therefore, my exterior and interior designs are focused on optimizing a building’s potential to react to,
rather than impose upon, the landscape and surrounding elements.
Each project is an opportunity to explore new avenues of state-of-the-art interior design, building science and construction methodologies. I like to state: “DESIGN IT SMART, BUILD IT STRONG, FINISH IT RIGHT!” Smart technology is factored into my designs so that a building can intuitively sense and change with the surrounding environment. Intuitive Smart Technology allows a building
to perform as a self-contained and self-sustaining structure. For my residential clients, Intuitive
Smart Technology provides a seamless integration of a home’s operational systems – and security rooms and safe haven is taking a lead in homes where privacy is of the utmost importance.
My designers, planners and consultants, strive to achieve every project’s goal with a new and unique approach. We specialize in every aspect of design; ranging from branding to urban planning. Sandra Costa Design Group Is a firm with partners and networks all over the world. We have a global perspective, enhancing the outcome of our design. Our international reputation for innovative design and a unique view of design gives clients a new aperture to there project.
I am always interested in hearing about a new project and can be reached at 310 874 3739 to discuss yours.
Sandra Costa
Exterior design and furniture by
Sandra Costa
Real Estate Images by Angelo Costa 310 985 5509

Art-Tek Construction transformed this weathered fence and deck with a complete restoration and premium staining system using Dulux WoodPride Hybrid Solid Stain. Proper preparation was the key to achieving a beautiful, long-lasting finish, beginning with a thorough pressure wash to remove dirt, mildew, weathered wood fibres, and previous coating residue.
Once the wood was clean and properly prepared, we applied Dulux WoodPride Hybrid Solid Stain, a high-performance coating engineered to provide exceptional durability and protection against Alberta's harsh climate. Its advanced hybrid technology offers outstanding adhesion, excellent UV resistance, superior colour retention, and strong resistance to peeling, cracking, and moisture penetration while allowing the natural texture of the wood to remain visible.
The finished project gave the fence and deck a rich, uniform appearance while providing years of protection against sun, rain, snow, and seasonal weather changes. This project reflects Art-Tek's commitment to premium products, meticulous preparation, and craftsmanship that helps homeowners protect their investment while enhancing the beauty of their outdoor living spaces.
Find the right local pro for your project

This architecturally elevated ADU interior in Sherman Oaks showcases a dramatic vaulted ceiling with exposed wood beams and integrated LED perimeter lighting, creating a luminous, high-end atmosphere rarely seen in accessory dwelling units.
The open-concept layout seamlessly connects kitchen and living space, maximizing volume, natural light, and rental appeal. Designed for both sophisticated living and long-term investment performance, this modern ADU blends architectural character with income-driven functionality, delivering a premium product in the Los Angeles market.
The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into a sculptural quartz island wrapped in soft sage cabinetry, delivering both visual impact and functional efficiency. Wide plank flooring expands the footprint, while strategic window placement maximizes natural light, making this ADU feel dramatically larger than its square footage.
Designed as a high-yield investment property, this build balances refined aesthetics with rental market appeal, creating a premium living experience that drives long-term value and strong return on investment.

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. With a lever handle atop the waterfall spout, it is easy to be controlled and adds a clean, simple look. Refined styling and unrivaled performance make this faucet stand out from the crowd.
- Constructed from lead-free solid brass for durability and reliability.
- Finished in a high quality, corrosion resistant antique brass.
- 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.

Transforming this long-standing home on Bradgate Rd required more than a simple update—it called for a careful balance between renewal, structure, and respect for what was already there.
The existing brick bungalow had strong bones, but the exterior was deteriorating, the carport was underutilized, and key interior spaces no longer supported the homeowners’ needs. Having lived in the home for decades, the goal wasn’t to start over—it was to rework the home into a more functional, comfortable space that could support the years ahead.
The scope included a full exterior masonry refresh, where the front layer of brick was removed and replaced while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. The carport was fully enclosed and integrated into the home as a garage, and a new roof tied everything together with consistent detailing and long-term performance in mind.
Inside, the layout was carefully reworked to introduce a new primary ensuite and completely renovate the main bathroom. Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems were updated throughout, with a focus on accessibility, ease of use, and everyday comfort.
The result is a home that feels both familiar and elevated—where thoughtful construction and refined design come together to support long-term living without compromising character.

Transforming this long-standing home on Bradgate Rd required more than a simple update—it called for a careful balance between renewal, structure, and respect for what was already there.
The existing brick bungalow had strong bones, but the exterior was deteriorating, the carport was underutilized, and key interior spaces no longer supported the homeowners’ needs. Having lived in the home for decades, the goal wasn’t to start over—it was to rework the home into a more functional, comfortable space that could support the years ahead.
The scope included a full exterior masonry refresh, where the front layer of brick was removed and replaced while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. The carport was fully enclosed and integrated into the home as a garage, and a new roof tied everything together with consistent detailing and long-term performance in mind.
Inside, the layout was carefully reworked to introduce a new primary ensuite and completely renovate the main bathroom. Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems were updated throughout, with a focus on accessibility, ease of use, and everyday comfort.
The result is a home that feels both familiar and elevated—where thoughtful construction and refined design come together to support long-term living without compromising character.

Rodwin Architecture & Skycastle Homes
Location: Boulder, CO, United States
The homeowner wanted something bold and unique for his home. He asked that it be warm in its material palette, strongly connected to its site and deep green in its performance. This 3,000 sf. modern home’s design reflects a carefully crafted balance between capturing mountain views and passive solar design. On the ground floor, interior Travertine tile radiant heated floors flow out through broad sliding doors to the white concrete patio and then dissolves into the landscape. A built-in BBQ and gas fire pit create an outdoor room. The ground floor has a sunny, simple open concept floor plan that joins all the public social spaces and creates a gracious indoor/outdoor flow. The sleek kitchen has an urban cultivator (for fresh veggies) and a quick connection to the raised bed garden and small fruit tree orchard outside. Follow the floating staircase up the board-formed concrete tile wall. At the landing your view continues out over a “live roof”. The second floor’s 14ft tall ceilings open to giant views of the Flatirons and towering trees. Clerestory windows allow in high light, and create a floating roof effect as the Doug Fir ceiling continues out to form the large eaves; we protected the house’s large windows from overheating by creating an enormous cantilevered hat. The upper floor has a bedroom on each end and is centered around the spacious family room, where music is the main activity. The family room has a nook for a mini-home office featuring a floating wood desk. Forming one wall of the family room, a custom-designed pair of laser-cut barn doors inspired by a forest of trees opens to an 18th century Chinese day-bed. The bathrooms sport hand-made glass mosaic tiles; the daughter’s shower is designed to resemble a waterfall. This near-Net-Zero Energy home achieved LEED Gold certification. It has 10kWh of solar panels discretely tucked onto the roof, a ground source heat pump & boiler, foam insulation, an ERV, Energy Star windows and appliances, all LED lights and water conserving plumbing fixtures. Built by Skycastle Construction.

This new Lake Minnetonka custom home was designed for a young growing family that decided to trade uptown Minneapolis condo life for lake living. Located on a narrow 40-foot-wide lot, this 2,850sf modern home provides a strong connection to the lake while also balancing privacy from the neighbors. The main level comprises a three-car tandem garage and public living spaces, the upper level consists of private spaces while the finished basement serves as a flexible space.
High performance triple pane European windows were strategically placed to frame views of the lake while interior facing windows were placed to frame tree and sky views. A stone clad fireplace acts as a spatial anchor that helps define the interior spaces as well as encourages the transition from interior to exterior spaces. Future solar panel conduits to the roof were installed as were EV charging stations in the garage and at the dock for future EV boat charging. Site water runoff is managed through an underground retention system.
The exterior cement board siding is painted black to recede into the landscape while accents of thermally modified wood, custom steel slats and stone add visual interest at the street and lake facing sides. The interior material palette is purposefully simple and consists of stained white oak flooring, ebony stained white oak cabinetry and millwork, white quartz counters, powder coated steel railings and stone veneer. The final result is a vibrant home for this young family that infuses warmth with a modern aesthetic.

This project highlights a high-impact exterior upgrade for a residential property flip in Philadelphia, featuring modern white vinyl siding paired with bold black window trim for maximum resale appeal.
Designed with ROI in mind, this siding installation transforms an older structure into a clean, contemporary asset that stands out in today’s competitive real estate market. Clean lines, neutral tones, and sharp contrast help attract buyers and increase perceived value.
Scope included full exterior prep on an existing home and efficient installation of durable, low-maintenance vinyl siding, ideal for long-term performance with minimal upkeep—perfect for investors looking to reduce future costs.
The front entry and porch were upgraded to create a strong first impression, while large window layouts enhance natural light and buyer appeal.
This project is a prime example of strategic exterior renovation for house flips, rental properties, and investment portfolios, delivering both visual impact and practical durability.
✅ Investor-friendly timelines & pricing
✅ Serving Philadelphia & Montgomery County
✅ Experienced with flips, rentals, and resale-focused renovations

This Chicago luxury primary bathroom remodel was designed to create a calm, spa-like retreat with strong architectural simplicity and high-performance functionality. The space features a freestanding soaking tub, oversized walk-in shower with frameless black glass enclosure, large-format marble-look porcelain walls, and clean modern lines that create a refined and timeless atmosphere.
The contrast between the dark custom vanity and bright stone finishes adds depth and balance, while integrated lighting, dual sinks, and carefully planned storage support everyday comfort without compromising design. The large horizontal window brings natural light into the space while maintaining privacy and architectural continuity.
Every detail of this renovation was coordinated early—from waterproofing and layout planning to finish selection and fixture placement—resulting in a bathroom that feels elevated, intentional, and built for long-term living.

Luxury kitchen in Gig Harbor, Washington featuring Taj Mahal Quartzite countertops with a full-size matching island. This project emphasizes clean architectural lines, precision fabrication, and seamless installation for a cohesive high-end finish.
The natural quartzite surfaces bring warmth and sophistication to the space, with consistent veining and durable performance suited for daily use. The island provides both functional workspace and a strong visual centerpiece within the kitchen layout.
Expertly fabricated and installed by Absolute GM LLC.

Many Akron-area homeowners just don’t want to spend the time required to maintain a wooden deck. Wooden decks, though beautiful and strong, require maintenance. This includes cleaning, sanding and sealing or staining at least annually in order to stay looking and performing their best. Archadeck of Akron has the answer for homeowners looking for a deck with beauty, longevity and less required maintenance — a TimberTech synthetic deck like the one shown in this custom outdoor living space design.

United Stainless LLP is a trustedAluminium Plate Manufacturer in Thiruvananthapuram, offering high-quality aluminium plates for industrial and structural applications. We are also a recognizedAluminium Sheet Manufacturer in India, delivering products known for excellent strength, corrosion resistance, and dimensional accuracy. Our aluminium plates are widely used in marine, construction, aerospace, and engineering industries.
As a reliableAluminium Plate Supplier in Thiruvananthapuram, we provide aluminium plates in various grades, sizes, and thicknesses to suit diverse requirements. We are also a dependableAluminium Sheet Supplier in India, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery. Our strong supply network and strict quality standards help us serve both bulk and customized industrial demands.
We are a leadingAluminium 6082 Plates Manufacturer &Aluminium 7050 Plates Manufacturer, supplying high-performance plates suitable for aerospace, marine, and heavy engineering applications. These plates offer excellent strength, durability, and corrosion resistance in demanding environments. For accurate reference and material planning, we also provide anAluminium Chequered Sheets Weight Chart.
We are also a leadingAluminium Plate Manufacturer in Visakhapatnam

Nestled in the treetops overlooking Lake Sarah, this second-story addition was designed as both a retreat and an extension of home. Elevated above the shoreline, the new spaces immerse the homeowners in the beauty of their surroundings while supporting the rhythm of daily life.
The addition introduces a private guest en-suite for visiting family and friends, a quiet office for focused work, a cozy lounge for gathering, a dedicated ceramic studio for making, and an outdoor patio that connects seamlessly to views of the lake and woods.
Every space reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle—places where creativity can flourish, where moments of reflection are possible, and where memories with friends and family can be made. Natural light, framed views, and a strong connection to the outdoors guided the design, ensuring that each room feels both purposeful and restorative.
Outside, durable cement board siding, anodized aluminum Marvin windows, and composite decking ensure lasting performance. Inside, walnut flooring and custom millwork bring warmth and texture, balancing comfort with modern practicality
This project goes beyond adding square footage. It creates a sanctuary—an elevated experience of home where living, creating, and connecting come together in the treetops.

Living Room:
Our customer wanted to update the family room and the kitchen of this 1970's splanch. By painting the brick wall white and adding custom built-ins we brightened up the space. The decor reflects our client's love for color and a bit of asian style elements. We also made sure that the sitting was not only beautiful, but very comfortable and durable. The sofa and the accent chairs sit very comfortably and we used the performance fabrics to make sure they last through the years. We also wanted to highlight the art collection which the owner curated through the years.
Kithen:
We enlarged the kitchen by removing a partition wall that divided it from the dining room and relocated the entrance. Our goal was to create a warm and inviting kitchen, therefore we selected a mellow, neutral palette. The cabinets are soft Irish Cream as opposed to a bright white. The mosaic backsplash makes a statement, but remains subtle through its beige tones. We selected polished brass for the hardware, as well as brass and warm metals for the light fixtures which emit a warm and cozy glow.
For beauty and practicality, we used quartz for the working surface countertops and for the island we chose a sophisticated leather finish marble with strong movement and gold inflections. Because of our client’s love for Asian influences, we selected upholstery fabric with an image of a dragon, chrysanthemums to mimic Japanese textiles, and red accents scattered throughout.
Functionality, aesthetics, and expressing our clients vision was our main goal.
Photography: Jeanne Calarco, Context Media Development

This modern kitchen renovation in Chicago was designed to create a clean, functional space with strong architectural presence and lasting material quality. The oversized quartz island serves as the focal point of the kitchen, providing generous workspace, integrated cooking functionality, and a natural gathering point for everyday living.
Full-height custom cabinetry, premium stainless steel appliances, and carefully balanced finishes create a refined and timeless aesthetic. The statement metal ceiling detail adds depth and dimension, while the open layout improves circulation and strengthens the connection between the kitchen and surrounding living spaces.
Every detail of this project was coordinated early—from layout planning to finish execution—to ensure the final result feels seamless, practical, and built to endure. This is a luxury kitchen remodeling centered on both performance and design.

This Gig-Harbor project brought together a full deck rebuild and custom patio cover designed to seamlessly integrate with the home’s existing structure. We began by removing the existing waterproof deck system while preserving the joists, allowing for a strong foundation for the new build.
The new patio cover was framed with a 5/12 roof pitch and engineered GLB beams, matched to the home’s top plate for a cohesive look. A pine soffit and black hardware details add warmth and contrast, while the structure was designed to accommodate future roofing by the homeowner.
The deck features premium Vintage Collection decking in Weathered Teak, complemented by Dark Hickory borders and fascia for a clean, defined finish. A surface-mounted glass railing system with a rounded top rail provides safety without obstructing views, enhancing the overall modern aesthetic.
To elevate comfort and usability, the space includes recessed lighting with dual dimmer controls and two Bromic 6K heaters for year-round enjoyment. Hideaway screens were also incorporated to add privacy and flexibility to the outdoor living area.
This project delivers a refined, functional outdoor space built to perform in the Pacific Northwest while maintaining a timeless, high-end look.

This Chicago luxury kitchen remodel was designed to create a fully open, highly functional cooking and entertaining space with strong architectural character. The custom cooking station features a professional-grade range, statement stainless steel hood, open wood shelving, and premium stone surfaces that bring both performance and visual balance to the heart of the home.
The oversized waterfall island creates a natural focal point while improving workflow, storage, and daily usability. Full-height cabinetry, integrated appliances, and carefully planned lighting support a clean, modern layout with lasting functionality.
A defining feature of the project is the seamless connection between the kitchen, living areas, and the integrated residential elevator, allowing the entire main level to feel cohesive and intentional. Every detail was coordinated early to ensure the final result reflects both luxury and long-term livability.

Built-in rollshutter application on a home in Massachusetts in the open position.
Rolling Shutters are the ultimate solution when you want to protect what’s behind your windows and doors. With Rolling Shutters, enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home has a sturdy layer of hurricane protection and storm protection. Rolling shutters shield against wind-blown debris, sand blasting and water penetration. Strong, secure, and durable, our Rolling Hurricane Shutters are proven to reduce energy and maintenance costs while making your home more comfortable to live in.
Hurricane Shutters
Hurricane Shutters are the premier protection against snow and ice storms, driving rain, high winds, and flying debris. We have huge selection of Hurricane Protection products for all types of applications. We specialize in new construction, retrofit projects and custom applications designed around more complex installations.
Hurricane Shutters protect your windows and doors from water penetration and breakage during hurricanes and Nor’easters bringing you comfort and protection. Even when you are not physically at the location of the storm, rolling shutters can offer you peace of mind. Homes and businesses not equipped with rolling shutters may experience glass breakage and door failures during high winds. Ultimately, those openings in the structure’s envelope can cause complete devastation to the home or business. Once the air pressure enters a building, no matter the type of construction, the likelihood of other windows and doors failing rises. If the pressure grows beyond a certain point, walls and and roof components begin to fail.
Security Shutters
Security Shutters are one of the best ways to discourage intruders from attempting to enter your home or business. This deterrent measure is just where rolling shutters start. While in the down position, rolling shutters can be locked in place by a motor, a gear, a keyed switch or by a separate locking device.
Rolling Shutters have been used as security shutters all over the world for decades with incredible success. Sometimes labeled as metal shutters and metal security shutters, they all have subtle differences, and the differences can’t be seen with the rolling shutter in the down position.
Security Shutters typically have end-retention pins that lock into the guide rails from the top. These pins are located throughout the entire curtain and are protected from manipulation while the curtain is in the close position.
Storm Shutters
Storm Shutters are the broad category of Storm Protection products. Of course, they come in all types of sizes, features and functionality. We have a full line of rolling shutters, hinged storm shutters and storm panels for you to to explore on our website or we would love for you to swing by one of our showrooms to see live demo models.
Storm Shutters are specifically engineered and designed for high hinds, flying debris protection and ultimately given a rating for Hurricane Protection. A little known fact: The most damaging type of wind value is not the force of the wind blowing directly on your home. This force is called positive pressure, and typically, many believe this is the strongest force against their home or business. Believe it or not, the negative pressure, or, the air passing by your windows and doors, has far greater power. Many low-grade storm shutters and hurricane protection products fail under this pressure.
Solar Shutters
Solar Shutters have a double wall construction and filled with a specialized polyurethane foam designed to increase R-factor and deflect solar penetration. Many rolling shutters can perform this function, but not all are created equal. The energy efficiency of exterior rolling shutters is up to 95% more effective than interior solar shades.
Solar Shutters have many unique and positive “side effects” from their dense foam-filled curtain profile. Many homeowners have taken advantage of energy savings by using these types of rolling shutters in both the summer and winter seasons. Reducing heating and air conditioning expenses throughout the entire year is not always our first thought, but many home and business owners have expressed massive savings. Not only do they block up to 90% of heat gain and loss, they also provide incredible noise control opportunities.
Privacy Shutters
Privacy Shutters are a great way to close of areas of your home or business from others. Some rolling shutters are equipped with perforations allowing ambient light to pass through when needed.
Privacy Shutters have many uses and are creatively used throughout the world in homes and businesses for all kinds of reasons. Close off food preparation areas, work shops, stock rooms, gun safes, closets, liquor cabinets and bars. Some business owners use rolling shutters to close off the outside world after working hours, to protect the last few employees as they finish money counts, paperwork, and prepare bank deposits.
If you have any questions or need additional information, our Product Specialists are available 800-522-1599
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