Set into a steep hill, the house was required to overlap
the footprint of a previous cabin. Yet it is rotated southward for better
light, and reaches 2-1/2 stories to take in the long views. The shed roof
rises toward the view, sheltering a large balcony at the main level and a
small walkout at the upper level. The contrasting gable roof intersects the
shed, creating an attic room facing west, and shelters the main entry facing
east. The main living spaces and master bedroom suite are found on the middle
level, reached via the exterior curving stone steps, or via the internal stair.
The living room is set 3 steps down from the rest, with a higher ceiling and
taller windows. The shed roof extends out the rear, creating a tall screened
porch set in the hillside, off the kitchen. The upper level contains additional
bedrooms, study and bathroom. At the highest roof, a skylight and fan draw
cooler air up from the lowest level through the open stairwell. The garage
is located at the lower entry grade to consolidate the construction and minimize
the impact of the driveway. Also at the lower grade level is a recreation/guest
room with walkout, utilities, and a bathroom. Being set into the hillside,
the bathroom at this level gains daylight via a skylight. Other skylights
and openings filter daylight throughout the house. Internal ceilings generally
follow the roof planes, creating various room heights. Structural laminated
wood beams & posts are also visible and finished inside and out.
Strategies & Features:
-Primary spaces open to south & west for sunlight & long views
-Main entry faces southeast, visible on approach
-Garage is located below living spaces, balcony above lessens impact of
garage
-3-story, open, central, well-lit stair provides natural circulation,
enhanced by upper level ceiling fan & skylight
-Siding: pre-stained cedar shingles & trim boards
-Radiant floor heating for lower level slabs, and main level above the garage
-Spray-in foam insulation makes a very tight and quiet enclosure
-High-efficiency propane-fired boiler
-Efficient, inset wood burning stove for supplemental heat
-Infiltrator-type septic system
-Scenic Mountain Act required design approval from local Conservation Committee
Specs:
4-bedrooms, 3-1/2 baths, recreation & studio spaces: 2765 sf (gross)
2 balconies, screened porch: 425 sf
Finished & heated garage: 750 sf
Total: 3940 sf (n/incl stone terraces at grade)
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