2022 Best Outdoor Living Project $50,000 – $100,000

The client’s brief was to add covered outdoor living space to their existing patio and invite the expansive landscape into this connection. For these avid entertainers, this house extension was much anticipated and brought the functionality, aesthetics, and fulfillment they initially sought when building the home in 1988. The solar analysis determined continual passive heating during winter months while maximizing occupant shelter. Materials with differing thermal and moisture coefficients and dissimilar aging qualities were separated to maximize life expectancy. Drain ports were installed for static precipitation removal and limiting freeze/thaw impact. The intentional use of natural materials to age and mature with the house, combined with the longevity of sound building science, gives this space a developed and belonging appearance. The warm wood tones, complimentary stone walls, and moody metal cabinets come together for a welcoming invitation to all who visit. In a post-construction interview, the clients commented, “When we left for work each day, it was a relief to know our home was in good hands. Everyone was great to work with… [the team] came up with great ideas for the small details that made it a first-class project. From morning coffee to the last call in the evening, we get a tremendous amount of use out of our new space…and our dogs love to relax out there as well!”