For Homeowners Who Want It Done Right
$40,000 outdoor projects fail every day.
Yours doesn't have to.
The pergola that floods your patio. The shades that rip in the first storm. The glass enclosure that fogs up every morning. These aren't product failures—they're planning failures.
We help you avoid them before you spend a dime on materials.
15-minute call. No obligation. No sales pressure.
What happens when you skip the design phase?
$8,000+ in change orders
Contractors discover issues mid-project. You pay to fix them.
3-month delays
Permits get rejected. Structural engineers get involved. Your summer is gone.
A system you regret
Wrong product for your climate. Wrong size for your space. Wrong everything.
We've seen it hundreds of times. Don't let it happen to you.
Our design-first approach
protects your investment.
Before we recommend a single product, we understand your site, your climate, your usage patterns, and your goals. Then—and only then—we match you with the right system.
- Site-specific climate analysisWind loads, sun angles, snow loads for YOUR property
- Architectural integrationHow the system connects to your home's structure
- Permit & engineering reviewWhat your municipality requires—before you apply
- System matchingThe right product for your goals, not the one with the best margins
- Detailed scope & budgetKnow exactly what you're getting and what it costs
A custom outdoor living space with retractable glass walls in Barrington, IL
What you get from a design consultation
This isn't a sales call. It's a planning session that gives you clarity—whether you work with us or not.
Site Feasibility Report
Can your property support what you want? We'll tell you.
System Recommendations
2-3 options matched to your goals and budget
Budget Range
Realistic investment expectations, not bait-and-switch quotes
Timeline Estimate
When you could realistically be enjoying your new space
From first call to finished project
A clear, predictable process. No surprises.
Discovery Call
15 minutes to understand your vision, timeline, and budget.
Day 1
Site Visit
We measure, photograph, and assess your property in person.
Within 1 week
Design Proposal
Detailed recommendation with system specs, drawings, and pricing.
Within 2 weeks
Project Execution
Permitting, ordering, installation, and final walkthrough.
4-8 weeks
Our Promise
If we discover during our assessment that your project isn't feasible, won't meet your goals, or isn't a good fit for what we do—we'll tell you. No hard sell. No wasted time.
What our clients say
"EDG helped us see possibilities we hadn't considered. Their design guidance saved us from making a $15,000 mistake."
"I came in thinking I needed glass enclosures. They showed me why motorized shades would actually work better for our situation."
"The site assessment caught a drainage issue that would have ruined our pergola. Worth every penny just for that."
Common Questions
How much does the design consultation cost?
The initial discovery call is free. If we move forward with a site visit and detailed proposal, there's a design fee that gets credited toward your project if you proceed with us.
What if I already know what system I want?
Great! We'll validate your choice and make sure it's the right fit for your specific site. Sometimes clients come in wanting a pergola and leave with a better solution. Sometimes we confirm their instincts. Either way, you'll have confidence.
How long does the whole process take?
From first call to enjoying your new space: typically 6-10 weeks for standard projects. Complex projects or those requiring significant permitting can take longer. We'll give you a realistic timeline upfront.
Do you only work in the Chicago area?
We design and install within 60 miles of Spring Grove, IL (north Chicago to Milwaukee). For projects outside that area, we can provide design consulting and connect you with qualified installers.
What if my project isn't feasible?
We'll tell you upfront. If your property can't support what you want, or if your budget doesn't align with your goals, we'd rather be honest than waste your time. That's the whole point of starting with design.