Custom, built-in fire pit with seating, colored concrete patio with gravel channels and drought tolerant / native plant material

The client requested a large (31 feet wide by 29-1/2 feet projection) three-span retractable waterproof patio cover system to provide rain, heat, sun, glare and UV protection. This would allow them to sit outside and enjoy their garden throughout the year, extending their outdoor entertainment space. For functionality they requested that water drain from the rear of the system into the front beam and down inside the two end posts, exiting at the bottom from a small hole and draining into the flower beds. The entire system used one continuous piece of fabric and one motor. The uprights and purlins meet together at a smooth L-shaped angle, flush at the top and without an overhang for a nearly perfectly smooth profile. The system frame and guides are made entirely of aluminum which is powder coated using the Qualicoat® powder coating process. The stainless steel components used were Inox (470LI and 316) which have an extremely high corrosion resistance. The cover has a Beaufort wind load rating Scale 9 (up to 54 mph) with the fabric fully extended and in use. A hood with end caps was also used to prevent rain water and snow from collecting in the folds of fabric when not in use. A running profile from end to end in the rear of the unit was used to attach the Somfy RTS motor which is installed inside a motor safety box. The client chose to control the system with an interior wall switch and a remote control. Concrete footers were installed in the grassy area in front of the unit for mounting the four posts. To allow for a flat vertical mounting surface ledger board using pressure-treated wood was mounted the full 31-foot width, as the client’s house was older and made of uneven stone. The client is very satisfied with the results. The retractable patio cover now makes it possible for the client to use a very large area in the rear of her house throughout the year.

Chelsea Construction Corp.

A recent John Kraemer & Sons renovation in the Linden Hills neighborhood of Minneapolis, MN. Photography: Scott Amundson

Existing mature pine trees canopy this outdoor living space. The homeowners had envisioned a space to relax with their large family and entertain by cooking and dining, cocktails or just a quiet time alone around the firepit. The large outdoor kitchen island and bar has more than ample storage space, cooking and prep areas, and dimmable pendant task lighting. The island, the dining area and the casual firepit lounge are all within conversation areas of each other. The overhead pergola creates just enough of a canopy to define the main focal point; the natural stone and Dekton finished outdoor island.

Lattice cover made from aluminum.

Outdoor water fountain water feature by Matt Agostino

A level area for the picnic table was made next to the beach.

Designed while at Graham Landscape Architecture.

John Benson Photography

In a wooded area of Lafayette, a mid-century home was re-imagined for a graphic designer and kindergarten teacher couple and their three children. A major new design feature is a high ceiling great room that wraps from the front to the back yard, turning a corner at the kitchen and ending at the family room fireplace. This room was designed with a high flat roof to work in conjunction with existing roof forms to create a unified whole, and raise interior ceiling heights from eight to over ten feet. All new lighting and large floor to ceiling Fleetwood aluminum windows expand views of the trees beyond. The existing home was enlarged by 700 square feet with a small exterior addition enlarging the kitchen over an existing deck, and a larger amount by excavating out crawlspace at the garage level to create a new home office with full bath, and separate laundry utility room. The remodeled residence became 3,847 square feet in total area including the garage. Exterior curb appeal was improved with all new Fleetwood windows, stained wood siding and stucco. New steel railing and concrete steps lead up to the front entry. Front and rear yard new landscape design by Huettl Landscape Architecture dramatically alters the site. New planting was added at the front yard with landscape lighting and modern concrete pavers and the rear yard has multiple decks for family gatherings with the focal point a concrete conversation circle with central fire feature. Everything revolves around the corner kitchen, large windows to the backyard, quartz countertops and cabinetry in painted and walnut finishes. The homeowners enjoyed the process of selecting Heath Tile for the kitchen backsplash and white oval tiles at the family room fireplace. Black brick tiles by Fireclay were used on the living room hearth. The kitchen flows into the family room all with views to the beautifully landscaped yards. The primary suite has a built-in window seat with large windows overlooking the garden, walnut cabinetry in a skylit walk-in closet, and a large dramatic skylight bouncing light into the shower. The kid’s bath also has a skylight slot with light angling downward over double sinks. More colorful tile shows up in these spaces, as does a geometric patterned tile in the downstairs office bath shower. The large yard is taken full advantage of with concrete paved walkways, stairs and firepit circle. New retaining walls in the rear yard helped to add more level usable outdoor space, with wood slats to visually blend them into the overall design. The end result is a beautiful transformation of a mid-century home, that both captures the client’s personalities and elevates the house into the modern age.

A pair of custom swings designed by the architect define a space for tranquil contemplation.

Photo by Roehner + Ryan

This custom louvered roof system creates a comfortable retreat in the homeowner's backyard. The shade control afforded by the adjustable louvers is an essential element in providing an idylliic outdoor living space no matter the weather. The addition of a firepit and cozy lighting allow for this space to be used at all times of day.