The Problem: Design and build an outdoor entertaining space that offers summer comfort in the south Texas heat. Two sides of the patio are blocked from the prevailing, and therefore cooling, southeast breezes by the existing house.
The Solution: A canopy that "floats" above the existing roof of the clients' home and therefore allows cooling breezes to enter, but also forms a shelter for entertaining.
The existing patio, which adjoins the home on two sides, was increased in size and paved with Mexican Saltillo tile. The framing members for the hip-roofed canopy are western red cedar, stained in a natural cedar color. Two cedar columns provide the support and give the canopy the appearance of floating over the patio from the rear elevation. Greenhouse-grade corrugated fiberglass in orchid white forms the cover. The material was chosen for its translucent qualities, so that plenty of light can get through to the homeowners' hanging and potted plants. The project turned out to be a beautiful addition that performs extremely well.
Project submitted, designed, and built by Crosland Design Associates/Builders, San Antonio, Texas.
