H Window Transforms Rural Sparta Wisconsin Home With Expansive Views

H Window makes the largest operational windows in the industry—a custom-only factory which allows for larger commercial and residential windows without the typical custom charges.

This 2023 case study below shows a Wisconsin residence that was enhanced with the re-design process provided by KitchenIcons and the H Window design team. The homeowner initially utilized a draftperson but later with KitchenIcons engaged an architect to revise the plans. In re-working to make the H Window package larger and more efficient, the final result is a unique home with incredible unobstructed views via cost-effective H Windows (scroll down for additional photos).

Before

ORIGINAL PLANS BEFORE H WINDOW RE-DESIGN

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After

FINAL PLANS - FRONT & SIDE VIEW AFTER H WINDOW RE-DESIGN. H Window Nordic outswing double door with direct set windows on each side was added to access the patio.

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View Photos Below of this H Window Project in Sparta Wisconsin From KitchenIcons

AGA Mercury Range

KitchenIcons also provided the art-deco inspired AGA Mercury 48 inch. induction range.

Project builder was J.D. Riley Construction of Sparta, Wisconsin.

For information on how to transform your project to an H Window project, contact Jeremy at KitchenIcons: 608-317-5700.

Learn more about H Window here.

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H Window Project in Progress on Great River Road - Mississippi River

H Window project currently under construction in Northeast Iowa. February 2024

H Window has been installed in this showcase home along the Mississippi River in Northeast Iowa. The project is being built by Meiners Construction of Caledonia and includes a variety of energy efficient features such as ultra-thick pre-formed concrete foundation/walls (ICF) and in-floor heating.

The selection of H-Window was the perfect choice due to the high quality and energy efficient engineering of the Norwegian-designed H Window—built in Ashland, Wisconsin. The H Window has zero air and water infiltration at windspeed of 250 mph (see testing data) and has fully rotational hinges that allow for cleaning glass from inside.

The homeowners chose H Window for their quality and large-size capabilities. They were also thrilled with the sound-deadening features of this awning window considering the frequent train activity near the new home.

KitchenIcons (Building Product Icons) is the dealer for H Window and is supplying the windows.

See more about H Window HERE: http://www.hwindow.com/

KitchenIcons is also providing a full suite of Viking Range appliances for the custom open-concept kitchen.

Check back for more updates.

Unique rotating hinge of the H Window allows for cleaning from the inside. Learn more about this revolutionary awning window HERE.

Watch a video showing the H Window - projected awning window in action HERE.

Contact KitchenIcons for your next residential or commerical building project. Phone: 608-317-5700 or email: Jeremy@KitchenIcons.com

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Transformation of an "Earth House" with H Window

WATCH VIDEO: H Window is featured in this earth house renovation

1980’s earth berm structure is transformed with a second story addition featuring H Window.

Learn more about H Window here.

Kitchen Icons building products division is a dealer of H Window. For more information about how you can include H Window in your project, contact Kitchen Icons at 608-317-5700.

5 Smart Tips for Designing a Patio Cover or Pergola

By Ruthie Chipps

Pergola (AKA Patio Cover) with adjustable louvers and double cornice at www.KitchenIcons.com near La Crosse, Wis. , Rochester, MN and Minneapolis, MN

Sun-Safe Covering

Outdoor living spaces have surged in popularity and are a top focus for commercial and residential design projects today. Concerns exist in locations that receive harsh direct sun--resulting in un-usable outdoor spaces. UV rays are linked with skin cancer, which will impact an estimated 25% of the population. The solution to this challenge is to consider investing in a patio cover.

Adding an effective shade structure provides cover and comfort while increasing overall value. Studies have proven and experts agree—if resale becomes required, the return on investment is almost always more than the original cost. “Outdoor oasis environments” are a prudent financial investment to any home.

Restaurants and hotels have found that investing in a “smarter” patio cover can pay for itself within a year.

Following are five smart tips for pergola designs:

1. Consider life-long quality materials - aluminum is the answer

Low maintenance and durability are important requirements in patio cover designs. Use of treated lumber with exterior paint or transparent stains equates to lots of regular maintenance and ongoing painting or refinishing every two to four years. Additionally, weather can take a terrible toll and limit a pergolas life when built from wood. Since COVID-19, the cost of treated lumber and cedar has skyrocketed. In some cases oak today costs less than pine.

Computer rendering for a rooftop aluminum adjustable patio cover

Bottom line on wood structures: They are very costly due to the maintenance and eventual re-build from impacts of weather exposure. Termites, pests, mold, mildew and wood rot can frequently be a major issue even on a well built deck or pergola. Even exotic woods, such as ipe, can have issues with fading and homeowners often complain of difficulties if a deck has both sun and shade (irregular fading).

Wood structures also offer limitations in protection from the sun since they are not adjustable. As seasons change, so does the trajectory of the sun as it sets to the west.

Aluminum or steel - which is better?

Although steel may be slightly less costly than aluminum, it will eventually begin to rust—even through powder coating. Anywhere there is a chip or scratch, the steel can begin to rust, causing troublesome staining. Heavy gauge extruded aluminum, in contrast, is the preferred substrate for a shade structure with minimal maintenance and maximum longevity. High quality powder-coating of aluminum will eliminate concerns of rust or deterioration.

Patio Covers by— Kitchen Icons utilize only the thickest extruded aluminum for pergola and patio structures, producing a superior product with longevity, form and function. They also incorporate advanced adjustable louvers (motorized) which promote comfort and cover from weather elements, such as sun, rain and snow.

Getting too hot on the deck or patio? Simply adjust the louvers from the post or off your mobile device for more shade. Starting to rain on your dinner party? The rain sensor will automatically close the louvers and keep everybody dry while continuing the festivities.

Customization: Patio cover companies also offer a variety of colors including custom colors, hidden interior gutters with water management systems, LED lighting, ceiling fans, heaters and even drop-down screens to block wind.

KitchenIcons.com adjustable louvered pergola and Hestan outdoor living suite.

2. Determine sun angle and seek patio covers that are adjustable

Assess how the sun shines as a first step in the planning process. Monitor throughout the day in different seasons and note how the sun impacts the space.

Adjustable patio covers allow you to control the amount of shade with your iphone or android. These premium patio covers are ajustable up to 170 degrees.

Adding a shade structure overhead doesn’t necessarily block the early morning or the late afternoon setting sun. Another option is to consider adding side-shade elements such as drop down screens which are contained within a color-matched aluminum cannister. Add screens on either side or also at the back. Screens are motorized and can also envelope the entire area 360 degrees to the ground.

3. Consider “smarter” patio covers that sense wind & rain.

Patio cover manufacturers offer numerous technology options for customizing your outdoor “resort” style space at home.

“The trend is for homeowners and businesses to find ways to reduce the harsh impact of the sun and other elements such as rain. They also want to have the option of adjusting how much sun (warmth) is delivered to their outdoor space,” explained Jeremy Chipps, General Manager of www.KitchenIcons.com and www.BuildingIcons.net, a La Crosse, Wisconsin (La Crescent MN) supplier of outdoor living products, including adjustable louvered patio covers and pergolas. “With a simple touch of a wall control or app, the patio cover adjusts up to 170 degrees. A rain sensor automatically closes to protect from rain, making the patio cover functional during inclimate weather or when that sudden thunderstorm appears during a party.”

Wind sensors can track wind speed allowing the louvers to open in higher winds inhibiting the patio cover from lifting off (like a parachute) from the deck or patio.

Restaurants, resorts and homeowners sometimes invest in complex umbrella systems which have a tendency to rip or tear and sometimes may be found in the neighbors yard or down the street. (A serious liability that may NOT be covered by insurance).

4. Choose design elements from modern to classic for architectural harmony

Patio covers can blend with existing design features of the home or structure, whether modern, victorian or traditional. Adding cornices and other options can enhance the overall design making it a timeless architectural statement.

5. Look for bug-free options and climate control

Consider enclosing your pergola or shade structure with drop-down screens/vinyl walls for protection from wind, sun and the ever-present insects in some parts of North America. Automatically controlled retractable screens provide flexibility with function. Improve the comfort of your patio further with heating and cooling elements that extend the seasonal use of outdoor spaces. On very hot days, cooling spray systems are also an outstanding option.

When it comes to gaining shade in outdoor spaces, designing a pergola or patio cover that is durable, adjustable and comforable will enhance your experience while providing great return on investment.

Well-built adjustable aluminum powder coated patio covers can demonstrate financial dividends at re-sale, while enhancing the outdoor experience through all seasons—from day one.

For more information on patio covers and pergolas, visit: https://www.kitchenicons.com/patiocovers or call Jeremy Chipps at 608-317-5700.

Patio covers provide powerful protection from the sun and weather elements.

Ruthie Chipps is a content producer and has designed outdoor kitchens and patio covers. Her expertise is in nutrition, health, culinary, wellness and quality smart-home building practices. More at www.NewMediaIcons.com

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Patio Cover Before & After is a Show Stopper

Outdoor living spaces are one of the hottest building trends today. Patio covers and pergolas transform backyards into additional “rooms” that add value and enjoyment to a residence.

Traditional wood structures are high maintenance and can be more costly due to continuous re-painting and the impacts from weather.

Kitchen Icons patio covers are built from durable powder-coated aluminum. They are built to last with numerous features such as LED lighting, cealing fans, heaters and retractable screens.

Five Benefits of Kitchen Icons Patio Covers

• Low maintenance - powder coated aluminum

• Beautiful design

• Multiple color options

• Adjustable - automatic closing louvers provides protection from rain

• Provides shade when you want it

Kitchen Icons Patio Covers

Harvest of the Month at Kitchen Icons is Butternut Squash -

Kitchen Icons Viking Kitchen is the backdrop for January’s Harvest of the Month on NBC-TV

Roasted Butternut Squash

Recipe: Ruth Chipps, MS, RDN

Ingredients:

1 Tablespoon olive oil 2 1/2 - 3 pounds butternut squash, cubed (use carrot peeler to remove skin) sprinkle of salt, pepper and garlic A few sprigs of fresh thyme or minced parsley.

Method: Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Place butternut squash on a sheet pan covered with parchment paper.

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper and granulated garlic.

Roast for 20-25 minutes or until fork-tender. Stir once during the cooking process.

Sprinkle with herbs.

Serve as a side dish or toss in soups and salads.

Ruth Chipps, MS, RDN, Host of “Harvest of the Month” on NBC-TV (WEAU)

Viking Kitchen at Kitchen Icons Featured on Harvest of the Month - NBC-TV

Viking range utilized in “Harvest of the Month (Beets) segment on WEAU-TV on Dec. 27, 2022

Orange Maple Beet Sauté

This sweet and tangy twist on cooked beets will hook you on their great taste. The impressive nutritional benefits of beets is also a plus, with a rich source of nearly every key nutrient.

Ingredients:  
2 Tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 large shallot, sliced thinly or half a small onion, chopped
2 1/2 - 3 pounds beets (about 5 large), peeled and cubed
Juice from 2 large navel oranges or about a quarter cup of juice
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup maple syrup
A few sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon dried) or rosemary
2 Tbsp feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/8 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet to medium high heat. Add the sliced shallot or onion and cook for 1-2 minutes until it softens.
Add the beets, the orange juice, balsamic vinegar and maple syrup/
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes until the beets are about fork tender, but not quite soft enough to eat.
Remove the lid from the pan and cook for another 10-12 minutes until most of the liquid has cooked off and there's a thick, syrupy sauce in the bottom of the pan that coats the beets.

Sprinkle with feta cheese just before serving (optional).

Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature or chilled right out of the fridge.

Recipe: Ruth Chipps, MS, RDN

Harvest Season Baked Cinnamon Apple

Ruth Chipps, MS, RDN on set at Kitchen Icons for NBC-TV’s “Harvest of the Month”

Cinnamon Apple Bake

Ingredients:

2 apples
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons butter

Directions:

Peel apples one - third from top.

Core apples, leaving the bottom intact.

Spoon sugar and cinnamon on apples.

Put 1 teaspoon butter on each top. Place apples in a deep, microwave-safe casserole dish and cover.

Microwave until tender 2 - 3 1/2 minutes until fork-tender. Let apples sit for 2 minutes before serving.

Top with yogurt or ice cream and crunchy granola. Drizzle with the cinnamon sauce from the bottom of the pIngredients:

2 apples
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons butter

Directions:

Peel apples one - third from top.

Core apples, leaving the bottom intact.

Spoon sugar and cinnamon on apples.

Put 1 teaspoon butter on each top. Place apples in a deep, microwave-safe casserole dish and cover.

Microwave until tender 2 - 3 1/2 minutes until fork-tender. Let apples sit for 2 minutes before serving.

Top with yogurt or ice cream and crunchy granola. Drizzle with the cinnamon sauce from the bottom of the pan.

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AS SEEN ON NBT-TV on Oct. 24, 2022 Harvest of the Month with Ruth Chipps, MS, RDN

Apple Tips & Nutrition 

Cook it: Everything is better with apples. They pair very well with cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger.

 NUTRITION: Apples have virtually no fat. One medium apple has about 80 Calories and a good source of fiber.

 USES:

• Fresh apples can be made into salads, sauces and crisp.

• Add a thin slice to sandwiches.

• Try using a Mandolin for thin slices.

Local Apples: Orchards in the area are teaming with apples. Varieties include honey crisp, gala, Mcintosh and Haralson.

Harvest of the Month--Tomato Time!

Harvest of the Month is taped on location at Kitchen Icons and appears on WEAU-TV (NBC).

September celebrates tomatoes and includes a simple and tasty tomato salad recipe.

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Tomato Garbanzo Salad

3-4 large tomatoes, chopped, juice drained – approx. 3 cups
1/2 Can garbanzo beans (chickpeas) or other bean/legume
2 green onions (chopped)

Vinaigrette Dressing:
1 Tbsp. olive oil or sesame oil
2 t. balsamic vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
½ cup fresh oregano or basil (finely chopped) 2 t. sesame seeds (optional)

METHOD:

Rinse and drain chickpeas/beans and place in a large salad bowl.
Add chopped tomatoes and onions.

Mix dressing in separate bowl, adding oil and balsamic vinegar. Mix and add salt and pepper.

Garnish with fresh herbs and optional sesame seeds

Ruth Chipps, MS, RDN

Ruth is a registered dietitian nutritionist and host of “Harvest of the Month” on NBC-TV.

Watch the segments here: https://www.kitchenicons.com/media

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Summer Green Smoothie

photo credit: Kitchen Icons

Take a refreshing summer break with the green infused smoothie consisting of green apples, pineapple and nutritious leafy dark greens.

Green Summer Smoothie 

Harvest of the Month - Featured on NBC-TV News (WEAU)

•  1 c. Coconut milk, kefir or other milk option

• 2 c. Fresh pineapple or frozen (canned)

• 1 Fresh or frozen banana

• 2 Green apples, core removed, chopped

• 2 c. Kale or spinach

• 2 t. Grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 t. powdered ginger)

• 1 c. ice cubes

 Method:

 Add all ingredients and blend until smooth.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1 day.

 Nutrition Tips:

 Dark green leafy vegetables are great sources of nutrition. Spinach, Kale, arugula and dark green salad greens are rich in vitamins A, C, E and K. 

 Note: Individuals who take blood thinners should contact their health care providers before incorporating more greens into their diet. Consistent amounts of vitamin K each day is what is suggested.  

 More Harvest of the Month Information: www.JacksonInAction.org/recipes

Watch it on NBC-TV

Harvest of the Month (WEAU-TV 13 NBC) is on-location at KitchenIcons lower patio pergola set.

Harvest of the Month is a partnership between Jackson County Department of Health and Human Services, Black River Memorial Hospital, Together for Jackson County Kids, Ho-Chunk Nation, UW Extension-Jackson County, Lunda Community Center, Boys and Girls Club, Hansen’s IGA, local school districts, The Library and the community. TV segments are hosted by Ruth Chipps, RDN, and air on NBC-TV (WEAU) in Eau Claire, Wisconsin

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Spring arrives with Radishes!

Spring Radish Salad

Spring Radish Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cups thinly sliced radishes

• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber

• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion

• 1 tablespoon fresh minced dill or fresh oregano

• 1 clove minced garlic or 1 t. dried garlic

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil

• 1 Tablespoon white wine vinegar, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1/3 c. Parmesan cheese

Combine the radishes, cucumbers, and onions in a medium mixing bowl.

Add fresh herbs and minced garlic.

Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Pour over the vegetables, add Parmesan and toss to combine.

Serve immediately or chill.

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Four Ingredient Edamame Succotash For Plant Rich Eating

What is Edamame?

Think of this green vegetable as baby soybeans. They’re harvested while green and soft - unlike mature soybeans that become dry and light brown. They’re a staple food in Asia and are becoming mainstream in the U.S. - partly due to their rich protein content. .

• The word ‘edamame’ means ‘stem beans’ - which is how they were originally sold with steams attached.

• Edamame is one of a few vegetables (plant-foods) that has complete protein content.

• They have a slightly sweet taste, similar to lima beans crossed with green peas.

• Edamame MUST be boiled prior to eating. The pods are NOT edible.

• Enjoy them as a snack or tossed into soups, salads or stir-fry’s.

• A 1/2 cup (85 grams) of whole edamame provides 8 grams of protein along with a good amount of fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamin C.

Four Ingredient Edamame Succotash

Harvest of the Month

• 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil

• 1 Medium Onion, chopped

• 1 Medium pepper, chopped

• 2 c. Edamame

• 1 c. Corn

• 2 t. Italian seasoning or Herbs de’ Provence

  Method:

  Heat 11 in skillet. Add olive oil

  Add onions and pepper. Saute for 3-4 minutes.

  Add edamame and corn and cook for an additional 4 minutes.

  Add herbs and serve.

Watch it on NBC-TV HERE

Harvest of the Month is a partnership between Jackson County Department of Health and Human Services, Black River Memorial Hospital, Together for Jackson County Kids, Ho-Chunk Nation, UW Extension-Jackson County, Lunda Community Center, Boys and Girls Club, Hansen’s IGA, local school districts, The Library and the community. More Here: www.JacksonInAction.org

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National Nutrition Month is a World of Flavors with Thai Red Curry Green Beans

Ruthie Chipps, MS, RDN, CD, Host of Harvest of the Month on NBC-TV News

National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. Learn More Here

Thai Red Curry Green Beans

Green beans is the focus this month with a flavorful Asian twist, pairing French green beans with Thai curry sauce.

THAI RED CURRY GREEN BEANS

Ingredients:
Fresh green beans, 2 to 3 cups, chopped into 3 to 4 inch sized pieces
2 tsp dark sesame oil or other oil
2 cloves of garlic finely chopped
3-4 tbsp (3 tbsp) red curry paste 2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp lemon or lime juice
3 tbsp water or broth
1.5 tsp sugar (or maple syrup) - optional

Garnishes:

2 Tbsp. crushed peanuts 2 Tbsp. minced fresh cilantro (optional)
Optional: 4 oz. firm tofu

Instructions:
Optional step (blanch): Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 2 minutes, drain and keep aside. If using thinner beans like French green beans, blanch for 1 minute.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium low heat.
Add garlic and cook until translucent (about 2 minutes).
Add the red curry paste. Mix and cook until fragrant (1 minute).

Add the soy sauce, lemon or lime juice, water and maple syrup. stir well. Increase heat to medium. Cook for a minute.
Add the green beans and toss to coat. Cover and cook for 3 to 6 minutes or until tender to preference.
The beans can also be garnished with crushed peanuts or almonds and cilantro.
Serve hot with rice or noodles or cooked grains of choice.

To make this a meal, add some baked tofu when you add the beans.

Enjoy!

Harvest of the Month is taped on the Hestan deck at Kitchen Icons. Hestan Nanobond skillet was provided for this segment.

The segment airs monthly on NBC-TV (WEAU) Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

more about Harvest of the Month here: https://www.jacksoninaction.org/recipes

Ruthie Chipps, MS, RDN, CD is host of Harvest of the Month on NBC-TV (WEAU) news.

The segment is taped under the pergola on the Hestan Outdoor Living Suite at Kitchen Icons.

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