A small, energy-efficient house is made to feel spacious and open by means of an open plan combined with generous areas of glass in the doors and windows, allowing the beauty of the surrounding nature to be brought into the house. The architecture was inspired by concepts emphasized in traditional Japanese architecture, with a focus on emphasizing and preserving the natural elements of the site – in particular the lake and the surrounding wetlands. The area of new construction was limited to a footprint of 1140 square feet in order to minimize the impact on the wetlands.
The one-story main living space on the north side of the house has a lofty presence and affords lake views while preserving those same views from the second floor of the studio building at the rear of site, which was constructed in an earlier project phase. The compact plan with sliding shoji screens allows for the expansion of the main floor living area into the study when the screens are open, or the creation of a guestroom when the screens are closed.
A massive stone wall in the main living space extends above the lower roof, anchoring the living space and creating a transition zone within which the stair is located. A high-performance rotating wood stove set in front of the stone wall serves as a traditional hearth. The tower and two-story volumes at the south side of the house contain the more private bedroom, study, library, bath and utility spaces. Throughout the house, views of the lake and wetlands are emphasized through selective placement of doors and windows.
Sustainable design elements were incorporated into the project wherever possible, including its small footprint and modest overall area (1640 square feet), maintenance of existing vegetation and natural drainage patterns to preserve the wetlands, and an extremely well-insulated shell with reduced HVAC loads. Environmental sensitivity was furthered through the use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient light fixtures and appliances. The shed roof above the two-story volume is optimized for solar PV panel installation at a later date.
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exterior view from northeast
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living area with view into study
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living area view toward kitchen
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living area with view toward lake
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bedroom with view into dressing area
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tihis view is realy beautifull.