New Kansas City Home Balances Classic Design and Hidden Innovation

There’s something special about building a home from the ground up—especially when it’s set against the backdrop of a peaceful lake. This new construction in Kansas City was designed to feel like it had always belonged there: classic, inviting and built with care. But what truly sets it apart is how seamlessly it brings together traditional charm and smart, subtle innovations.

From the start, the homeowners and builder knew they wanted the windows and doors to play a key role in achieving the right look. That meant choosing products that offered architecturally accurate proportions, authentic grille designs and, importantly, clean sightlines.

To reflect the historic window styles that inspired the home’s design, we recommended Pella Reserve — Traditional windows. These have the kind of subtle details — like putty-glaze profiles and narrow sightlines — that make them feel right at home in a house with classic character.

The homeowners wanted windows that looked like they’d been there forever, in the best way. To get the look just right, we used simulated divided light grilles to mimic the charm of old-school divided panes. From the arched window above the garage to the dormers on the second floor, each grille pattern was chosen to match the home’s symmetry and style. And while they may look like something out of another era, the energy-efficient glass behind them delivers all the comfort and performance you'd expect today.

The homeowners had a clear vision: they didn’t want screens getting in the way of the home’s crisp, symmetrical design. On many houses, screens are barely noticeable. But here, even a slight visual interruption would’ve taken away from the intentional lines of the façade.

To keep everything clean and balanced, we recommended windows with built-in Rolscreens® — a clever solution that allows screens to retract out of sight when the windows are closed. That meant the homeowners could still enjoy fresh air when they wanted it, without sacrificing the look they worked so hard to achieve.

In spaces where ventilation wasn’t necessary, we skipped screens entirely. Large picture windows were installed to let in as much natural light as possible and maintain wide-open views.

The result is a home that looks carefully considered from every angle—no extra lines, no visual clutter. Just clean, classic design that lets the windows do what they’re meant to do: frame the view beautifully.

From the outside, the home leans traditional with arched windows, classic lines and a balanced, symmetrical layout. But behind that timeless look is a home designed to take on Kansas City’s ever-changing weather, thanks to smart material choices and performance-focused details.

Every window and door was chosen with energy efficiency in mind. With Low-E glass and argon gas between the panes, the homeowners have better control over indoor temps no matter the season. In a home this carefully thought out, it was important that every element pulled its weight, not just for comfort, but for peace of mind when the utility bill arrives.

One of the standout features is the 4-panel sliding door facing the lake. It’s definitely a showstopper, offering wide-open views and tons of natural light, but when it’s closed, it seals up tightly to help keep things cozy in winter and cool in the summer. The homeowners love that they can take in the scenery without battling the elements.

That mix of smart glass and intentional design is what lets the home feel open and airy without compromising on efficiency. It’s not just beautiful. It’s built to work with the seasons, not against them.

Along with the thoughtfully chosen windows, the homeowners picked a mix of inswing, outswing and sliding patio doors from the Pella Reserve — Traditional line. Each one was selected not just for how it works, but for how it fits the flow and feel of the home.

At the front, classic inswing doors create a formal, welcoming entry that matches the home’s traditional style. Around the sides and back, outswing doors make it easy to step outside while keeping interior space open and usable. And in the main living area, a 4-panel sliding patio door opens to the lake, giving the space incredible views and letting in loads of natural light.

Like the windows, the doors feature timeless grille patterns and slim profiles that keep the look clean and symmetrical. But behind that traditional style is modern performance—smooth operation, tight seals and energy-efficient glass that helps manage light and temperature year-round.

Together, these carefully selected windows and doors create a home that feels timeless, yet lives effortlessly in the present. It’s a place where every detail, from the grille patterns to the hidden screens, contributes to a home that’s both rooted in tradition and ready for the future.