This set of cabinets and washing station is just inside the large garage. The washing area is to rinse off boots, fishing gear and the like prior to hanging them up. The doorway leads into the home--to the right is the laundry & guest suite to the left the balance of the home.

Clopay Avante Collection aluminum and glass garage doors on a modern farmhouse style home. Opaque glass keeps cars and equipment out of sight. Photographed by Andy Frame. This image is the exclusive property of Andy Frame / Andy Frame Photography and is protected under the United States and International Copyright laws.

This light and airy lake house features an open plan and refined, clean lines that are reflected throughout in details like reclaimed wide plank heart pine floors, shiplap walls, V-groove ceilings and concealed cabinetry. The home's exterior combines Doggett Mountain stone with board and batten siding, accented by a copper roof. Photography by Rebecca Lehde, Inspiro 8 Studios.

The best of past and present architectural styles combine in this welcoming, farmhouse-inspired design. Clad in low-maintenance siding, the distinctive exterior has plenty of street appeal, with its columned porch, multiple gables, shutters and interesting roof lines. Other exterior highlights included trusses over the garage doors, horizontal lap siding and brick and stone accents. The interior is equally impressive, with an open floor plan that accommodates today’s family and modern lifestyles. An eight-foot covered porch leads into a large foyer and a powder room. Beyond, the spacious first floor includes more than 2,000 square feet, with one side dominated by public spaces that include a large open living room, centrally located kitchen with a large island that seats six and a u-shaped counter plan, formal dining area that seats eight for holidays and special occasions and a convenient laundry and mud room. The left side of the floor plan contains the serene master suite, with an oversized master bath, large walk-in closet and 16 by 18-foot master bedroom that includes a large picture window that lets in maximum light and is perfect for capturing nearby views. Relax with a cup of morning coffee or an evening cocktail on the nearby covered patio, which can be accessed from both the living room and the master bedroom. Upstairs, an additional 900 square feet includes two 11 by 14-foot upper bedrooms with bath and closet and a an approximately 700 square foot guest suite over the garage that includes a relaxing sitting area, galley kitchen and bath, perfect for guests or in-laws.

Potting bench and garden center. Photo by Carla Sinclair-Wells

The conversion of this iconic American barn into a Writer’s Studio was conceived of as a tranquil retreat with natural light and lush views to stimulate inspiration for both husband and wife. Originally used as a garage with two horse stalls, the existing stick framed structure provided a loft with ideal space and orientation for a secluded studio. Signature barn features were maintained and enhanced such as horizontal siding, trim, large barn doors, cupola, roof overhangs, and framing. New features added to compliment the contextual significance and sustainability aspect of the project were reclaimed lumber from a razed barn used as flooring, driftwood retrieved from the shores of the Hudson River used for trim, and distressing / wearing new wood finishes creating an aged look. Along with the efforts for maintaining the historic character of the barn, modern elements were also incorporated into the design to provide a more current ensemble based on its new use. Elements such a light fixtures, window configurations, plumbing fixtures and appliances were all modernized to appropriately represent the present way of life.

The informal bar area of the cabana

Garage Remodel in West Chester PA James Hardie siding Divinchi Europeon Slate roof ProVia windows