Services
Articles
Outside-In Design —New Way to Build, New Way to Live
by Winans Construction Staff
Before
After
Before
After
Before
After
Californians are lucky people—we have the climate to stay outside almost year round. We are also adventurous types who value invention. Now is the time to look at the possibilities in your own backyard, literally. Outside–In Design unites the principles of innovation and economy. Use the space that’s free—and sustainable—and contain your footprint. Four interrelated design elements can significantly enhance how you live without adding one square foot to your house.
Space
Stand in the room that borders your backyard and note the lines and barriers. Now imagine glass doors or a window wall and watch the divide between you and the outside world vanish. Your space expands. Fresh air, natural light, and quiet beauty enter. Today’s architects are replacing traditional walls with movable window panel systems. Products like the Nanawall® bring the outside in all the time. Nanawall® manufactures 17 different systems. Made from recyclable materials, folding or sliding panels rest against each other like an accordion. The interior of your home benefits more light and ventilation without the energy-consuming switch.
Surface
By matching interior and exterior floor levels, you achieve a visual extension of your home. Once surface heights unite, similar floor coverings optimize the seamless outdoor-indoor experience. Current choices for stamped and stained concrete can complement the tile, stone, rock, wood, slate, or brick of interior floors and walls. Another example is Ipe - a decking product that maintains a rich, red brown color when sealer is applied. When left in its natural state, Ipe transforms into a silvery satin like cedar. All of these products eliminate peeling, cracking, and fading. Walking out and walking in will feel one and the same—magnified beauty and space in light.
Style
Match your interior décor with your outside space to expand and enhance your home. Today’s outdoor textiles can handle the weather and replicate your favorite chair or sofa. Whether your style is classic Edwardian or modern Zen, coordinating colors, textiles, appliances, art, and accents - outside and in - creates a phenomenal effect. Harmony, energy, and openness all come to mind.
Sight
Align the edges of outdoor tables, railings, and benches with natural lines to ensure an unobstructed view. Add exterior features that draw the eyes outside. Consider landscape lights, water elements, conversation seating, and seasonal plantings. Sound can also support the experience of seamless space. The running water of a fountain, for example, can be heard wherever you are in the house and maintains your connection to the natural world.
Outside-In Design is redefining how we inhabit our homes and protect the planet. Embrace the opportunity to use every part of your home. For more inspiration and information, enjoy these resources or contact us.
Nanawall
Trex Decking Products
Sunbrella Outdoor Fabrics
KitchenAid Outdoor Appliance Collection
Related articles from Remodeling Magazine
Product Extra: Exterior Options
Outdoor Living