For a sophisticated architectural finish, a brick surround makes the perfect complement to a covered patio as we can see on this addition in Quito, Ecuador. PJCArchitecture designed the fully covered, indoor/outdoor living room with an open facade, connecting the home seamlessly with the surroundings. 

A permanent covered patio as part of a larger renovation means you can install more elaborate lighting options, too. For elevated design interest, layer multiple options like long, shapely pendants with sconces and spotlights, for atmosphere when the area isn't bathed in natural light.

For a contemporary look, see how a duo of horizontal slat fence design brings finesse to this Sagaponack home renovation by PJCArchitecture. The cedar fences and walls enhance privacy and provide shade around the patio area, for a “layered barrier” that is still elegant. The combination of shrubbery and trees softens the double fence, too.

SPIRIT OF THE SHORE
The owners of a home in Mantoloking turned to a familiar architect to create an outdoor fun zone that celebrates its seaside setting.

A Brooklyn couple, in search of the perfect family retreat, knew they needed just the right design team to unlock the full potential of their oversized property in Mantoloking. Purchased in 2021, the five-bedroom center-hall colonial on Curtis Point’s lagoon was already a boater’s dream. But Maureen and Philip Maldari envisioned more than just marine appeal—they wanted an outdoor entertainment haven for gathering with family and friends.

The backyard, Maureen recalls, started off as “just kind of a vast space with really no personality or point of view.” Now, at a stage in life when relaxation and hosting are top priorities, the couple set out to bring a unique vision to life—one that would reflect the spirit of the shore while maximizing the property’s potential for fun, leisure, and connection.

“I know how to appreciate the impact I have through my work, no matter how small. I take great pride in helping our clients live better lives, whether they just had a baby and need more space or they’re getting older and need a more accessible home. There’s a beauty in appreciating the value you bring to your world. ”

When it comes to tidying your home, little and often is always best. Taking ten minutes out of your day to tidy up each morning as part of your daily household cleaning schedule lets you keep your place neat and tidy more effortlessly.

"A clutter-free space leads to a clutter-free mind," says Di Ter Avest, owner of Di is Organized. "Taking a few minutes to tidy up in the morning can set a positive tone for the day." She recommends completing menial tasks like unloading the dishwasher, wiping down countertops, and putting away anything left out from the night before.

Besides the obvious advantage of a cleaner, tidier space, this simple ritual can help set you up for the day mentally, too. "Your home is an energetic extension of your life," says Britt. "When my space is clean and organized, I feel more grounded, sleep better, and can move through my morning routine with ease."

“When working with oddly shaped spaces, particularly these free-form islands, the most important thing is to think outside of the box,” Consalvo explained, emphasizing the importance of balancing creativity with practicality. “Creating sculpture can be wonderful, but architecture is more than just sculpture. We firmly believe that form should follow function.” 

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“If you think about how somebody lived in the 1970s, the rooms were more compartmentalized, windows were a little smaller,” said Philip Consalvo, the principal at boutique architecture firm PJCArchitecture. “In today’s world, a lot of rooms are more open, there’s an open flow, there’s paying attention to how the inside connects to the outside.”

solutions without compromising your goals.

The most essential takeaway is hire the right support team. Project costs tend to be high, but it is a mistake to make your decisions based solely on costs. A good team will guide you in selecting the proper materials and making smart, efficient choices. They will help you design within your budget and establish realis­tic parameters, all while achieving a creative result. Seek testimonials from friends and neighbors or ask for referrals when evaluating consultants, designers and construction companies.

There's nothing wrong with a dimly lit space. "Dimly lit spaces can be cozy, warm, sophisticated, and even sexy," "In this project, two windows provided some natural light in the space, but due to the location and shape of the room, direct sunlight was not an option." Thus, introducing a bit of artificial light was key, and a dazzling ceiling fixture serves both a functional and an artistic purpose. Say goodbye to that builder grade chandelier that came with your apartment and install something that will truly inspire you.