Quite a bit of dialog, discussion and visual exploration had occurred prior to the creation of the sketch set shown here. Realistically, these sketches represent the first substantive set, and, thus, the moniker - Design Set, Sketch #1. This set constitutes discussions with not only Rachelle, but also with her builder and my engineer. It is the extreme version of the home based on all criteria, allowing us to now determine where compromises need to be made as necessary and appropriate. The point was to establish a plan that incorporates her initial parameters (needs and wants) with the realities of construction and engineering. By doing so, we can then adjust the design to ensure that it best meets all the parameters and remains within her budget. This approach allows for all involved to make educated decisions. Following are the main issues to be addressed for the next set of sketches:
• Rachelle's initial reaction is that the overall look is too contemporary and no longer looks like a mountain home.
• She loves the layout and the flow, but is concerned that the size of the home will put it over budget. Her builder had previously stated his concern regarding cost of construction was not so much based on size, but on complexity.
• The overhangs need to be pulled back into the structure as much as possible. This will mean more light/heat coming into the home, but a significant cost savings can be realized. The large great room windows face east and will allow the morning sun in, and the south face of the home - which will receive the majority of the summer sun - will have only minimal window exposure, so the reduced eaves will not be a catastrophic compromise. Consider configuring the eaves off of the dining/sun room to serve as a protected outdoor space.
• The size of the loft should be minimized, again, as a cost saving measure.
• The size and number of decks should also be minimized. The exterior stairs can be eliminated.
• Pull the dining/sun room back to be flush with the east facing entry wall. This will also have the effect of shrinking the back deck.
• Pull the roof down further into the structure such that the interior wall height on the top floor is no more than seven feet where it meets the ceiling.
• Re-configure the north and south facing gables to be more dormer-like. This will further simplify the roof structure.
• Eliminate the door between the dining/sun room and the back deck. Introduce more cabinets.
• Minimize the size of the bathroom windows, keeping them high so as to ensure maximum natural light, but afford more privacy.
