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Houses Awards Winners

Readers’ Choice Awards 2017

In addition to the six award-winning projects selected by the Fine Homebuilding editors, we also asked our readers to select their favorite homes.

By Maureen Friedman Issue 267 – HOUSES 2017
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Fine Homebuilding readers submitted a number of projects for consideration; 10 were selected as finalists, and three were chosen as winners.

First place: Straw Bale Sanctuary. During the last housing boom, Tate Locke and his father, Bill, forged a successful partnership building a few spec homes in the Colorado Rockies. After many years of designing, building, and renovating homes for others, Locke and his wife, Julie, now owners of Cristee-Meade Building Company, decided it was time to build their own.

Second Place: Stony Creek Cottage. Sited beside a meandering tidal river in Connecticut, this four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home has an air of understated elegance. The ceiling detail and crown molding in the living room continue through to the beautifully detailed front entry. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, black granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The mudroom has beadboard wainscoting for durability with ample built-in storage, a mahogany bench, and a stone floor. The living room, dining room, and kitchen are well-connected and positioned to take in the views of the shoreline.

Third Place: Efficient Timber-Frame Living. Ben and Sanfra Weiss spent two years designing their house. Ben, an amateur woodworker, built the timber frames and interior designer Sanfra outfitted their dream home. The design is based around a 20-ft. by 50-ft. timber-frame open plan that houses the kitchen, living room, and offices. A second 24-ft. by 26-ft. timber frame includes the foyer, powder room, laundry, closets, and stairs to the guest quarters above the garage. The master bedroom and bath are also on the first level. The second level includes two bedrooms and baths, plus a guest suite with a living room and kitchenette. With its wraparound deck, stone patio, and three covered porches, the house transitions from inside to outside with style.

For the full report, including all ten finalists, click below.

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Anchor Bolt Marker

Quickly transfer anchor bolt locations to mud sill stock without measuring mistakes.
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Musings of an Energy Nerd: Toward an Energy-Efficient Home

Fine Homebuilding readers know Martin Holladay well and love his practical, cost-effective approach to energy-efficiency and green building. In this book, he walks you through every step of planning an energy-smart home that is healthy, durable, and comfortable.
Buy at Amazon

Original Speed Square

A Speed Square or rafter square can help you cut rafters, measure angles, and accurately guide your saw for straight and angled cuts. It's a must have.
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