Screened-in porch living became a sanctuary for award-winning actress, director, and storyteller Sarah Wayne Callies. On a misty afternoon wrapped in a cozy blanket, Phantom Screens caught up with Sarah at her peaceful home nestled on the Canadian West Coast. You might recognize her from unforgettable roles in The Walking Dead, Prison Break, or Council of Dads. But beyond her iconic characters, it’s the quiet screened-in porch she shares with her family that’s become her personal escape.
Whether in the forests of British Columbia or under the sun-drenched skies of Southern California, Sarah’s story illustrates just how transformative a thoughtfully designed outdoor space can be. From bugs to breathtaking views, her screened-in porch strikes the perfect balance of comfort, style, and functionality.
From Georgia Bugs to the Tranquil Screened-In Porch in British Columbia
Sarah first fell in love with the concept of screened-in porches while filming The Walking Dead in Atlanta. The fixed screens on Southern porches offered refuge from relentless mosquito bites, providing comfort during those sticky summer shoots. So, when Sarah and her husband, Josh, returned to their home in British Columbia, the idea of a screened-in porch stuck. They were determined to create a similar retreat to enjoy the great outdoors while keeping insects at bay.
Their journey to achieving the perfect outdoor space led them to Phantom Screens. While dining at a local restaurant, Sarah and Josh were captivated by the sight of a server effortlessly activating the motorized patio screens surrounding a patio. After seeing how seamlessly the screens appeared and disappeared, Josh immediately called a local Phantom Screens installer the next day.
This same kind of elegance resonates deeply with homeowners in Southern California. Whether in places like Palos Verdes Estates or San Marino, a screened-in porch is no longer just a luxury—it’s a lifestyle. By embracing indoor-outdoor living, homeowners can enjoy comfort and style without the hassle of pests and fluctuating temperatures.
Preserving Charm and Comfort with Phantom Screens
Preserving both rustic charm and everyday comfort was the goal when Sarah and Josh spent over a decade envisioning their patio design that reflected their family’s values and design sensibilities. With reclaimed old-growth beams passed down from a demolished shop in town, their porch became a perfect blend of heritage and modern-day function.. Working closely with their Phantom Screens installer, they ensured the rustic charm of the beams remained front and center.
“We wanted to preserve the hand-hewn look,” Sarah shared. “The installer mounted the screens externally, so they vanish when not in use. You don’t even know they’re there until they drop down.”
That seamless integration is exactly what Phantom Retractable Screens offer, and it works beautifully for Southern California homes—from Malibu beach houses to hillside estates in Sierra Madre. With these screens, homeowners can preserve architectural integrity while enhancing the functionality of their outdoor living space.
The Comfort of Cozy Gatherings in a Screened-In Outdoor Space
For Sarah, the biggest surprise wasn’t just the insect protection—it was the warmth. “The screens retain so much heat with our outdoor heaters,” she explained. “It’s perfect for long, cozy dinners. Everyone’s mood shifts—it’s like being on vacation.” It’s where laughter lingers, stories are shared, and friends feel right at home.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner on your Newport Beach lanai or unwinding after a long day on your Beverly Hills patio, Phantom Screens help create that perfect, mood-shifting atmosphere. Bugs stay out, the breeze flows in, and your space becomes something special—relaxed, elevated, and entirely yours.
Sarah calls it a place that “soothes the soul of everyone—family and friends alike.” In a world full of distractions, this tranquil retreat is worth everything.
The Phantom Screens Effect: Enhancing Your Outdoor Experience
Since 1992, Phantom Screens has helped homeowners—just like Sarah—extend the comfort of their homes outdoors. With sun shade, protection from insects and wind, UV filtering, and modern design, Phantom Retractable Screens offer the perfect upgrade for Southern California homeowners looking to:
Embrace indoor-outdoor living
Maximize patio and balcony space
Add style without compromising comfort
Enjoy year-round outdoor entertaining—from beachside brunches to fireside dinners
Whether you’re designing a rustic retreat like Sarah’s or upgrading a contemporary patio in Coto de Caza, Phantom Screens can help you create a bug-free, breeze-filled, soul-soothing outdoor escape.
