Case Study: From Underused Porch to Seamless Living Space in Mount Gilead

Picture of Zoe
Zoe

When Daniell and Michael looked out at their backyard in Mount Gilead, Ohio, they saw potential—but not comfort. Their existing porch sat unused while the rest of their outdoor space, including a pool, begged for connection to the home. What they really needed wasn’t more patio—it was more usable interior space.

That’s where Miller Custom Exteriors came in.

A Total Transformation—Within the Existing Footprint

Rather than starting from scratch, we worked with the existing porch structure and completely enclosed and finished it into a cozy, fully functional living area. The transformation was dramatic—no new foundation needed, but a space that feels brand new.

Inside, the details tell the story:

  • Shiplap walls and wood ceilings for warmth and texture
  • Custom crown moulding to elevate the finish
  • A new fireplace for year-round use
  • Handcrafted interior window trim and sills, custom-stained to match the rest of the home
  • An existing kitchen window converted into a serving window, complete with a matching custom sill

It’s the kind of craftsmanship that only comes from experience—and a deep respect for getting the little things right.

Blending the Exterior for a Seamless Look

On the outside, we made sure everything matched the original home. The new look included:

  • Cultured stone accents
  • Vertical siding in the same color as the existing horizontal siding, adding contrast without clashing
  • A new sliding patio door and stairs to connect the space back to the yard

We also built a small grilling porch behind the garage, giving the family a dry, dedicated spot to cook—even in less-than-perfect weather.

To make the space more comfortable in the hot sun, we installed energy-efficient windows, cutting down on heat gain and improving year-round comfort.

Function, Comfort, and Cohesion

Today, Daniell and Michael have a beautiful new room that flows naturally with the rest of their home—plus a few smart upgrades that make outdoor living easier, too. It’s a space that looks like it’s always been there, but feels fresh and built with intention.

Final Thoughts: Real Solutions, Custom Crafted

At Miller Custom Exteriors, we approach every project—big or small—with a problem-solving mindset. Whether it’s maximizing unused space, fixing what’s broken, or tying old and new together seamlessly, we deliver work that’s thoughtful, creative, and built to last.