After initially studying a design for a new home on a suburban lot, the newlywed owners decided to stay in their existing home.The project involved removing a

poorly built first floor garage and bedroom and building an addition for new living spaces including, kitchen, sun room, bathroom and two bedrooms. A two-car garage was built into the sloped site via using exposed concrete retaining walls.

The client had three objectives beyond satisfying the space needs: change the image of their home to a more contemporary one; preserve the existing gardens; and improve energy performance.

To accomplish these objectives the following were developed: The original shape of the home was retained but the siding and windows were replaced in a cleaner form; A bold roof form was introduced; Placement of the addition where construction removed; and Incorporation of new exterior wall and roof insulation, sun shades and an upgraded HVA system.