Though their steeply downsloping lot created a natural multi-level house, Matt and Michelle had a huge need for additional space to comfortably house their large family (four daughters) and frequently visiting relatives.

Given the terrain and relatively small lot size, a vertical addition was definitely the way to go, but it too was challenged by the height limits and floor area restrictions of the Belmont Planning code.

By carefully modeling the existing terrain in 3d, were were able to easily create a 3d "height plane" that dictated exactly where the 2nd floor needed to be. The clients' preference for an informal Craftsman style allowed us to have some freedom with the 2nd floor massing, which both benefited the project's curb appeal and ability to comply with the height limits.

Though the project required a Planning variance, this was approved unanimously by the Belmont Planning Commission and construction started in 2015.