Modernizing An Architectural Landmark with Outdoor Misters

When considering modernizing a significant home or property with outdoor misters, it is important to maintain the integrity of the structure, especially if it could be considered a historical or architectural landmark. In California, contractors working on modernizing an architectural landmark must adhere to strict standards and practices to protect the historical and structural integrity of the building, including compliance with historic preservation laws as well as local city architectural and construction ordinances. In addition, any new additions should meet “material and aesthetic compatibility” requirements that are compatible with the appearance of the existing façade using materials that are “non-corrosive” and “easily removable” to prevent long-term damage.

A Desert Mid-Century Marvel

Koolfog was approached by Studio Veren design + build to modernize a Hugh Kaptur-designed residence with outdoor misters that would be both functional and respectful of the property’s heritage. The Palisade House (as Koolfog has named it with permission from its current owner) is a notable example of Desert Modern Mid-Century architecture. Designed by Hugh Kaptur in 1958, this dynamic property mirrors the Coachella Valley’s homage to its indoor/outdoor lifestyle appeal. Illuminated meandering paths formed from the native terrain & cascading rock waterfalls, terraces, and exquisite gardens surround the home. The structure has a distinct facade, surrounding walls of glass and a graphic roofline.

A Challenge & Out-Of-The Box Response

Koolfog’s design and installation team was challenged to install a comprehensive outdoor misting system to the patio eaves using an “out-of-the-box” approach to achieve results without compromising the home’s historical value.

Koolfog manufactures factory-rated misting lines for our global market, which apply to different structure heights, climates, and end uses. Misting is an evaporative cooling process that requires adequate space to evaporate and cool the air without getting surfaces wet. Using Koolfog’s commercial-grade misting system in a residential setting with unique installation requirements achieves the goal of installing outdoor misters with minimal alterations to existing structures. This approach also ensures compliance with regulations for “easily removable” improvements by avoiding any permanent fastening of equipment.

Outdoor Misters with a Creative Installation Solution

Koolfog’s design team specified 20-inch nickel-plated extenders to connect the misting line positioned on the roof and cascading over the roofline. This design allowed the 316-grade stainless steel atomization line to remain hidden from view while still dispersing mist effectively at the roofline. As a result, guests enjoying the patio could experience the cooling benefits of the outdoor misters without any visual or structural impact.

To maintain the architectural integrity of the structure, the team needed a solution that would keep the misting line securely in place without fastening it directly to the rooftop. In collaboration with the roofing vendor, the roof was re-coated, enabling the mist line and tubing to be secured to wooden anchor sleeves resting on the roof rather than requiring penetrations. Once the coating dried, the wooden anchor blocks were locked in place, allowing the extenders to be properly adjusted for a uniform length and angle.

The end result: our team successfully installed the outdoor misters at The Palisades House without any drilling or penetration that could compromise the structure’s integrity. In the future, the misting system can be removed, and the structure restored to its original form by simply scraping the foam coating from the roof blocks.

Koolfog takes great pride in its commitment to due diligence and high-quality workmanship when designing and installing outdoor misting systems. Our teams collaborate with architects, builders, vendors, and specialty contractors to ensure all installations meet local, county, and state codes. Preserving the architectural integrity of a significant landmark while enhancing its outdoor living space is an achievement our team is especially proud of.