From Big Dreams to the Right Fit: A Sun Porch addition in Blaine

They loved to entertain and host big celebrations. Now they can with this new 4-season addition in Blaine.

Project Summary 

We first met this couple at the Minneapolis Home and Garden Show a few years ago. At the time, they envisioned an expansive remodel including a new kitchen and a large addition. But through our Phase 1 design conversations—where we dive into scope, feasibility, and cost—it became clear that their best path forward was to focus on a single, high-impact space: a 4-season sun porch addition. 

They loved to entertain and throw big family celebrations, so this year-round dedicated space was the best all-around solution for this large family,” recalls Design Build Consultant Jonah Smith.

“A big part of the collaborative effort in design is recognizing priorities and smart trade-offs either in the size of the project or in the materials used,” explains Murphy Bros. Director of Project Development Bob Mock. “It’s the best way to craft a remodel that is both satisfying and affordable.”

To support the 16x18-foot structure, we had to dig 7 feet down and install helical piers to achieve the proper bearing and tension for the foundation.  It’s a bit more expensive than traditional footings, but it’s the best solution for certain soil types.

BEFORE: Final plan rendering.


Before

BEFORE REMODEL— front elevation showing narrow entryway and living room over garage with older slider windows.
BEFORE: There's something about 2nd story deck space that cries out to be filled with something—Usually junk. 
BEFORE: For most this space serves as a storage eye-sore, not a livable space.
BEFORE: Cleared of the old deck, the patio space is being marked for future porch footprint.


After

AFTER: No longer dark and filled with junk, the underdeck space now doubles the entertainment footprint.
AFTER: Powder-coated aluminum stair system.  Note how the new addition perfectly matches the roof line of the existing structure. We also installed a Trex Rain-Escape drainage kit underneath the deck portion to keep the space dry.
AFTER: Timbertech decking was repurposed from the existing deck to stay within budget limits; LP Smartside siding.
AFTER: Now a beautiful view in climate-controlled comfort provided by Richlin vinyl picture units and trapezoid windows.

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