- August 31, 2025
- 4 min
Case Study | House in a Garden
Discover how innovative materials and design have shaped this award-winning home, setting new standards for resilient and sustainable architecture.
Moisture Management with Perforated Metal Rain Screens
At the heart of this residential project is a custom Perforated Metal rainscreen that serves as a protective barrier and design element. This rain screen preserves the home from Florida’s intense climate, significantly reducing energy consumption by shielding it from sun exposure.
The recycled-content aluminum facade was crafted to harmonize with the home’s modern form, demonstrating functionality and aesthetics can coexist. With large-format windows and high ceilings for natural airflow, the home embraces passive design to reduce reliance on artificial cooling.
The Perforated Metal cladding also provides durable weather protection that stands off from the water barrier to allow drainage and evaporation. By leaving a gap between the outer panels and wall, air flows through, and any water that enters can drain. Without a rain screen, water damage from rain is more likely.
A Model of Award-Winning Excellence
This project has received multiple awards, such as the Wood Design Award, the AIA Miami Honor Award for Excellence, and the Mark Samuelian Award, among others. Celebrated in exhibitions like the Inaugural Open House Miami, it is applauded for its approach to aesthetic appeal, environmental sensitivity, and energy efficiency.
A case study in sustainable design as an architectural statement, it earns recognition from leading design organizations.
Awards & Recognitions
This award recognizes and celebrates the outstanding work of architectural professionals who achieve excellence in wood design and construction.
Open House Miami includes a showcase of Miami Beach’s most notable buildings, design, and more.
The NCASLA Merit Award from the North Carolina American Society of Landscape Architects recognizes outstanding achievements in landscape architecture.
The AIA Florida Honor Award of Excellence for Sustainability is given to projects demonstrating exceptional commitment to sustainable design.
This award commemorates a residents-first approach to resilience for homes and communities that face climate hazards.
This prestigious accolade recognizes outstanding residential architectural design within the Miami area. The award signifies a high level of design quality and its positive impact on the community and the built environment.
The AIA Miami Award of Excellence for Divine Detail recognizes projects demonstrating exceptional design in a specific detail.
Publishing
America ByDesign is all about American innovation, ingenuity and design excellence. It's about inspiration, disruption and changing the game.
Architectural Record July House of the Month - 2024
Architect’s Newspaper - 2021 [project was under construction.]
University of Florida Warrington College of Business Journal - 2023
Locally Sourced Materials for Maximum Sustainability
Beyond visual and performance qualities from the cladding, the project exemplifies all-around sustainable material sourcing and energy-conscious construction. Constructed with locally sourced mass timber and regionally processed materials, the project supports local economies and reduces carbon emissions.
The mass timber structure and Perforated Metal facade work together as a low-tech, high-performance system, capturing carbon and providing natural cooling. Each choice reflects a commitment to excellence, energy efficiency, and affordability, paving the way for sustainable residential architecture.
Project Details
Project Name: House in a Garden
Product: ITEM 17183132
Location: Coconut Grove-Miami, Florida
Year Built: 2022
Photography: © Tim Hursley
Why Choose McNICHOLS® Specialty Metals for Your Project?
We specialize in delivering metal solutions that elevate architectural projects. With customizable options, top-tier durability, and a commitment to excellence, McNICHOLS® Specialty Metals are the ideal choice for designers seeking to bring their visions to life.