From Garage to Gathering Space
Kelli and Mike of Pennsylvania saw untapped potential in their home. Their underused single-car garage, separate from the main house with its own entrance, seemed like the perfect space to transform into a functional home office. But they didn’t stop there. With a little creativity, their vision expanded beyond just work—this space would become a dynamic hub for both productivity and entertaining.
“Our house is small and has always had to perform more than one task,” Kelli shared. As they designed their multi-purpose retreat, inspiration struck when she spotted a gas strut window in an HGTV home makeover. Intrigued by the sleek design and indoor-outdoor flexibility, she searched online and discovered the ActivWall Gas Strut Window.
Kelli and Mike connected with their local ActivWall dealer, Overhead Door of Lancaster, and worked with Jim Adam to customize the perfect window for their space. They selected a 96-inch wide by 36-inch high ActivWall Gas Strut Window, crafted in the USA with thermally broken aluminum, insulated glass, and a raised sill for superior energy efficiency.
To enhance installation, they opted for ActivWall’s optional nailing flange, and they chose a crisp white powder-coated finish paired with a two-point locking system for security and ease of use.
When it came time for installation, Kelli’s trusted contractor, Cliff, along with helpers Jerry and Andy, took on the project with enthusiasm. Despite having never worked with a gas strut window before, they embraced the challenge and installed it seamlessly. “My contractors are fearless!” Kelli exclaimed. “They had never seen nor heard of this type of window before but did great installing it.”
Now, the window serves as a stunning focal point in their redesigned space. It opens up 90 degrees with sturdy gas struts, creating a seamless connection between the cozy interior and the lush outdoor patio, which features a fire pit for cool evenings.
To complete the transformation, Indoor City of Lancaster installed a custom counter beneath the window, designed by Jessica Tyson. The couple chose Fantasy Brown hard marble, which functions as both an indoor sitting area and an outdoor serving bar, making it the ultimate multi-use feature.
“After 5, the workday is over, and we love the idea that we can travel outside to a ‘bar’ to enjoy our favorite beverages,” Kelli noted. For Mike, an avid cyclist, the space has also become a go-to spot for post-ride drinks with fellow riders.
But the benefits extend beyond just socializing. “The gas strut window transforms [the space] from day to evening,” Kelli explained. “We can even sit inside and watch the drizzle while the window is open.”
What began as a simple home office project quickly evolved into a stylish, multi-functional retreat where work, relaxation, and entertaining blend seamlessly. With their new ActivWall Gas Strut Window, Kelli and Mike have unlocked their home’s full potential—proving that a little innovation can turn any space into something extraordinary.
Featured ActivWall Dealer
Acknowledgments:
Story by Jennifer Doss. Photos by Kelli Zban. Technical Guidance by Nikki Compton. Gas Strut Window by ActivWall. Featured Dealer – Overhead Door of Lancaster. Marble by Indoor City.
