A Transformation in Stages
Built before 1837, the original 960 square foot farmhouse has undergone change for as long as Ann Arbor itself. With additions in 1924 and 2003, this house is still relatively modest at just under 1600 square feet. However, using architect Sarah Susanka’s Not So Big ® techniques, every square inch is used to make this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home feel and “live” much larger.
The long-range plans to return this house to its pioneer roots of self-sufficiency include the final stages of a deep energy retrofit, rainwater harvesting and urban agriculture techniques. Much like Ann Arbor’s thriving local community, this home will continue its evolution now and into the future.
Much has been done to further improve the house as the budget allowed over the years. Master planning and building in stages were key to realizing the full utility and beauty of this 1600 square foot home. An energy retrofit also helps the owners live in a more comfortable and healthy home that costs far less to operate.
All of the original wood deconstructed from the home has been reused in finishes in this home and others. The kitchen table is made from original studs of clear virgin white pine; the flooring in the upstairs hallway and master suite was the original maple flooring. Many of the products in this home are made from recycles or reclaimed resources, and nearly all made within the Great Lakes region.
Single-tree, book-matched curly cherry cabinets were used throughout the home to maximize space and storage, and add character. Note the custom Meadowlark cherry cabinetry in the Master Closet – not a big space, but huge functionality. Custom cabinetry can help smaller square footage work more efficiently and look beautiful at the same time.
Regardless of age, size or type of construction, any home can be made to function better and more comfortably: This home’s energy retrofits include:
New & Improved Duct Work
UltimateAir® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) with Whole-House Ducting
Re-circulating Eternal® On-Demand Hot Water System
Attic FRESH START® Insulation Package
Low Flow Water Fixtures
Carrier 98% Efficient Furnace with Air-Source Heat Pump Compatibility
NEST Learning Thermostat
LED Lighting
Electric Car Charging Station
Custom Sculptural Metal done by Drew Kyte of Kyte Metalwerks in Ann Arbor, Michigan
The long-range plans to return this house to its pioneer roots of self-sufficiency include the final stages of a deep energy retrofit, rainwater harvesting and urban agriculture techniques. Much like Ann Arbor’s thriving local community, this home will continue its evolution now and into the future.
Much has been done to further improve the house as the budget allowed over the years. Master planning and building in stages were key to realizing the full utility and beauty of this 1600 square foot home. An energy retrofit also helps the owners live in a more comfortable and healthy home that costs far less to operate.
All of the original wood deconstructed from the home has been reused in finishes in this home and others. The kitchen table is made from original studs of clear virgin white pine; the flooring in the upstairs hallway and master suite was the original maple flooring. Many of the products in this home are made from recycles or reclaimed resources, and nearly all made within the Great Lakes region.
Single-tree, book-matched curly cherry cabinets were used throughout the home to maximize space and storage, and add character. Note the custom Meadowlark cherry cabinetry in the Master Closet – not a big space, but huge functionality. Custom cabinetry can help smaller square footage work more efficiently and look beautiful at the same time.
Regardless of age, size or type of construction, any home can be made to function better and more comfortably: This home’s energy retrofits include:
New & Improved Duct Work
UltimateAir® Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) with Whole-House Ducting
Re-circulating Eternal® On-Demand Hot Water System
Attic FRESH START® Insulation Package
Low Flow Water Fixtures
Carrier 98% Efficient Furnace with Air-Source Heat Pump Compatibility
NEST Learning Thermostat
LED Lighting
Electric Car Charging Station
Custom Sculptural Metal done by Drew Kyte of Kyte Metalwerks in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Project Cost: $200,001 - $500,000
Country: United States
