We’re open 7 days a week, 8 AM–8 PM
+1 (213) 851-1178
 
We’re open 7 days a week, 8 AM–8 PM
+1 (213) 851-1178

Irvine, California — Residential Patio Cover Project

Project Overview
What began as a plain concrete patio is now a true outdoor room—purpose-built for everyday living and effortless entertaining. This custom aluminum pergola creates two distinct zones under one cohesive structure: a relaxed lounge for evening cocktails and a dining area sized for family dinners and weekend gatherings. Durable, low-maintenance materials and hidden utilities make the space beautiful on day one and practical for the long haul.
Scope & Objectives
  • Transform an exposed patio into an all-weather outdoor room
  • Provide full rain protection and cooler summer shade
  • Add privacy from neighboring views while keeping airflow
  • Integrate lighting/electrical cleanly with no visible conduit
  • Align the layout with the slider and outdoor kitchen for a natural flow
  • Deliver a permit-ready, HOA-approved build with engineered details
Project
Design & Layout

  • Two-Zone Plan: The roof footprint and post spacing define a lounge (near the slider for easy indoor/outdoor use) and a dining bay adjacent to the outdoor kitchen. Circulation paths stay clear so people can move effortlessly between cooking, seating, and the yard.

  • Scale & Proportion: Beam depths and post placement were tuned to keep sightlines open from the interior while giving the exterior a confident, architectural presence.

  • Modern Aesthetic: A deep-charcoal, powder-coated finish reads crisp and contemporary, softened by wood-look horizontal privacy slats that add warmth and texture.

Structure & Materials

  • Frame: Powder-coated aluminum (deep charcoal) for long-term durability and virtually no maintenance.

  • Roof System: Solid insulated roof panels deliver complete rain cover and noticeably cooler shade in summer by reducing heat transfer.

  • Privacy: Wood-look aluminum slats—spaced for airflow—temper onshore breezes and screen lateral views without closing in the space.

  • Fasteners & Flashing: Corrosion-resistant hardware and metal flashings at wall interfaces for a clean, watertight connection.

Electrical & Water Management

  • Concealed Wiring: Pre-routed chases inside beams and posts keep wiring hidden and serviceable for recessed lights, pendants, or future fans/heaters.

  • Integrated Drainage: A built-in gutter system with downspouts sends roof water away from traffic areas, keeping the patio dry and slip-resistant.

Engineering, Permits & HOA

  • Engineered Posts & Footings: Sized for local wind loads and soil conditions; anchors are code-compliant and concealed for a refined look.

  • Permitting & HOA: Our team handled drawings, submittals, and inspections to streamline approvals and protect resale value.

Challenges & Solutions

  • Sun Exposure: Afternoon heat on the west-facing patio made the space underused. The insulated roof and strategic slat placement cut radiant heat while preserving daylight.

  • Neighbor Proximity: Horizontal slats were oriented and spaced to block key sightlines without creating a solid wall, keeping the area bright and breezy.

  • Traffic Flow: Posts were laid out to frame—not interrupt—movement between the slider and outdoor kitchen, preventing pinch points at mealtime.
Result
An elegant, year-round outdoor living room that works as well on a Tuesday night as it does for Saturday hosting. With full weather protection, intuitive circulation, and timeless modern lines, the pergola turns the patio into the family’s favorite “second living room.
Made on
Tilda