m.o.r.e. Cabin The paradigmatic North American cottage is romanticized as a wilderness log cabin. Nonetheless, typical cottages are “woodsy” versions of suburban homes with every modern convenience. These buildings sustain the myth that appearing to be one with the land equates to a reduced impact on the environment. The m.o.r.e. Cabin inverts this idea through a separation from the landscape that is more sustainably constructed than other cottages. This unravelling of eco-fictions is not cynical, but optimistic: while organic environments are being degraded, what remains can be engaged more responsibly. To this end, m.o.r.e. Cabin touches the land lightly through: - Interpreting the law creatively to uphold its principles. - Reducing foundation size through a steel mast. - Low-waste cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure. - Achieving greater tensile strength through a “folded” structure. - Off-grid power and high-efficiency heating. - Creating a home for endangered bats. Interpreting the Law with Finesse Zoning rules required a 100-foot (30-metre) setback from the lake. A cliff face at that 100-foot mark was incorporated into the design, whereas conventional construction approaches would entail blasting. To minimize harm to the hillside and forest, a zoning variance was obtained to allow the front of m.o.r.e. Cabin to hover above, rather than sit on, the 100-foot (30-metre) mark. The Mast The technical solution to the environmental issue involved a single concrete footing and a steel “mast” placed within the required setback. Avoiding a conventional large foundation preserved the watershed and prevented erosion, as did elevating the construction zone. Use of carbon-intensive concrete was also reduced for a lower carbon footprint. m.o.r.e. Than One Way to Skin a Home m.o.r.e. Cabin is built with suitably-sourced CLT panels and glulam beams. The CLT was milled offsite then hoisted into place, avoiding damage to the landscape by the maneuvering of construction machinery. Cabin-as-Beam m.o.r.e. Cabin’s environmental considerations yielded structural innovation. Our challenge became to develop a structural strategy using cantilevered CLT panels as a response to the zoning variance that we obtained; CLT is fundamentally deployed in vertical/compressive sections, not horizontally in tension. Conventional 5-ply CLT is too heavy to support itself over longer spans. The solution used thinner 3-ply CLT, with structural capacity ensured through “folding” (just like paper gains strength when folded). Off-Grid The home is solar-powered. The elevated cottage catches more breezes and has excellent cross-ventilation. Heat is provided by a high-efficiency “green carbon” wood stove. Good R-value and thermal comfort are provided by CLT’s mass, and precise joinery provides air-tightness. Inviting Over the Neighbours One goal of the home was to create extensive lodging for endangered brown bats. Bat pods were integrated into the mast to provide safety from climbing predators and a clear flight path to the lake. *“m.o.r.e.” stands for the clients’ grandmothers’ names; all of whom did more with less — and gracefully so.

Hrivnak Associates is led by John Hrivnak, a nationally sought after specialist in design for aging in place, accessibility, accommodations for Alzheimers, Autism and mother-in-law suites. Licensed architect, LEED AP, and on the advisory board for the international Architects Designing Homes organization as well as AIA, John has staff specialists in historic architecture, contemporary architecture and interior design. Projects include additions, re-modeling, vacation homes, and new residential design. You can be guaranteed that you will have fun working with us to create your dream home.

Hrivnak Associates is led by John Hrivnak, a nationally sought after specialist in design for aging in place, accessibility, accommodations for Alzheimers, Autism and mother-in-law suites. Licensed architect, LEED AP, and on the advisory board for the international Architects Designing Homes organization as well as AIA, John has staff specialists in historic architecture, contemporary architecture and interior design. Projects include additions, re-modeling, vacation homes, and new residential design. You can be guaranteed that you will have fun working with us to create your dream home.

A swooping charcoal-gray stone wall tells the story of this modern home in one gentle but generous gesture. Enveloping trees, entry, living room, and vistas all at once separates the main wing for two from an in-law suite and carefully guides this ensemble around a set of mature tress. Lightly placing this house on a heavily wooded Charlotte, NC site while keeping the natural setting intact, paired with concerns of privacy, sunlight, and views of nature has made the initial design phase especially fun and challenging.

Hrivnak Associates is led by John Hrivnak, a nationally sought after specialist in design for aging in place, accessibility, accommodations for Alzheimers, Autism and mother-in-law suites. Licensed architect, LEED AP, and on the advisory board for the international Architects Designing Homes organization as well as AIA, John has staff specialists in historic architecture, contemporary architecture and interior design. Projects include additions, re-modeling, vacation homes, and new residential design. You can be guaranteed that you will have fun working with us to create your dream home.

This project was so much fun! We wanted to bring some modern artwork, lighting, and furniture into this otherwise historic building. Notice the ceiling! Absolutely stunning.

This project was so much fun! We wanted to bring some modern artwork, lighting, and furniture into this otherwise historic building. Notice the ceiling! Absolutely stunning.

For this young family, home meant more than just a place to live — it needed to bring everyone together, including extended family and even the family dog. Their unfinished basement held the potential to do just that, so Better Builders was brought in to transform it into a warm, functional space that could serve multiple needs. A private bedroom and full bath were created for the mother-in-law, making extended visits comfortable and welcoming. The rest of the basement was designed for fun and connection — a card table for late-night games, and a custom in-home theater where friends and family can gather to watch the big game. No detail was overlooked, not even for the family’s four-legged member. A cozy nook with its own screen for “dog TV” and a convenient doggy door to the backyard were added, ensuring that every member of the household had a place of their own. The finished result is a basement that brings comfort, entertainment, and a touch of whimsy to everyday living.

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This project was so much fun! We wanted to bring some modern artwork, lighting, and furniture into this otherwise historic building. Notice the ceiling! Absolutely stunning.

This custom renovation in the silver beach neighborhood of bellingham washington was a strip down to the bones and redo every inch of the home to install all custom cabinets lvp flooring and custom wood working and custom tile work for these cllients so they could live with there family for fun times.

For this young family, home meant more than just a place to live — it needed to bring everyone together, including extended family and even the family dog. Their unfinished basement held the potential to do just that, so Better Builders was brought in to transform it into a warm, functional space that could serve multiple needs. A private bedroom and full bath were created for the mother-in-law, making extended visits comfortable and welcoming. The rest of the basement was designed for fun and connection — a card table for late-night games, and a custom in-home theater where friends and family can gather to watch the big game. No detail was overlooked, not even for the family’s four-legged member. A cozy nook with its own screen for “dog TV” and a convenient doggy door to the backyard were added, ensuring that every member of the household had a place of their own. The finished result is a basement that brings comfort, entertainment, and a touch of whimsy to everyday living.

Hrivnak Associates is led by John Hrivnak, a nationally sought after specialist in design for aging in place, accessibility, accommodations for Alzheimers, Autism and mother-in-law suites. Licensed architect, LEED AP, and on the advisory board for the international Architects Designing Homes organization as well as AIA, John has staff specialists in historic architecture, contemporary architecture and interior design. Projects include additions, re-modeling, vacation homes, and new residential design. You can be guaranteed that you will have fun working with us to create your dream home.

Example of a minimalist home design design in DC Metro

Hrivnak Associates is led by John Hrivnak, a nationally sought after specialist in design for aging in place, accessibility, accommodations for Alzheimers, Autism and mother-in-law suites. Licensed architect, LEED AP, and on the advisory board for the international Architects Designing Homes organization as well as AIA, John has staff specialists in historic architecture, contemporary architecture and interior design. Projects include additions, re-modeling, vacation homes, and new residential design. You can be guaranteed that you will have fun working with us to create your dream home.

Welcome to Sand Dollar, a grand five bedroom, five and a half bathroom family home the wonderful beachfront, marina based community of Palm Cay. On a double lot, the main house, pool, pool house, guest cottage with three car garage make an impressive homestead, perfect for a large family. Built to the highest specifications, Sand Dollar features a Bermuda roof, hurricane impact doors and windows, plantation shutters, travertine, marble and hardwood floors, high ceilings, a generator, water holding tank, and high efficiency central AC. The grand entryway is flanked by formal living and dining rooms, and overlooking the pool is the custom built gourmet kitchen and spacious open plan dining and living areas. Granite counters, dual islands, an abundance of storage space, high end appliances including a Wolf double oven, Sub Zero fridge, and a built in Miele coffee maker, make this a chef’s dream kitchen. On the second floor there are five bedrooms, four of which are en suite. The large master leads on to a 12’ covered balcony with balmy breezes, stunning marina views, and partial ocean views. The master bathroom is spectacular, with marble floors, a Jacuzzi tub and his and hers spa shower with body jets and dual rain shower heads. A large cedar lined walk in closet completes the master suite. On the third floor is the finished attic currently houses a gym, but with it’s full bathroom, can be used for guests, as an office, den, playroom or media room. Fully landscaped with an enclosed yard, sparkling pool and inviting hot tub, outdoor bar and grill, Sand Dollar is a great house for entertaining, the large covered patio and deck providing shade and space for easy outdoor living. A three car garage and is topped by a one bed, one bath guest cottage, perfect for in laws, caretakers or guests. Located in Palm Cay, Sand Dollar is perfect for family fun in the sun! Steps from a gorgeous sandy beach, and all the amenities Palm Cay has to offer, including the world class full service marina, water sports, gym, spa, tennis courts, playground, pools, restaurant, coffee shop and bar. Offered unfurnished.

Welcome to Sand Dollar, a grand five bedroom, five and a half bathroom family home the wonderful beachfront, marina based community of Palm Cay. On a double lot, the main house, pool, pool house, guest cottage with three car garage make an impressive homestead, perfect for a large family. Built to the highest specifications, Sand Dollar features a Bermuda roof, hurricane impact doors and windows, plantation shutters, travertine, marble and hardwood floors, high ceilings, a generator, water holding tank, and high efficiency central AC. The grand entryway is flanked by formal living and dining rooms, and overlooking the pool is the custom built gourmet kitchen and spacious open plan dining and living areas. Granite counters, dual islands, an abundance of storage space, high end appliances including a Wolf double oven, Sub Zero fridge, and a built in Miele coffee maker, make this a chef’s dream kitchen. On the second floor there are five bedrooms, four of which are en suite. The large master leads on to a 12’ covered balcony with balmy breezes, stunning marina views, and partial ocean views. The master bathroom is spectacular, with marble floors, a Jacuzzi tub and his and hers spa shower with body jets and dual rain shower heads. A large cedar lined walk in closet completes the master suite. On the third floor is the finished attic currently houses a gym, but with it’s full bathroom, can be used for guests, as an office, den, playroom or media room. Fully landscaped with an enclosed yard, sparkling pool and inviting hot tub, outdoor bar and grill, Sand Dollar is a great house for entertaining, the large covered patio and deck providing shade and space for easy outdoor living. A three car garage and is topped by a one bed, one bath guest cottage, perfect for in laws, caretakers or guests. Located in Palm Cay, Sand Dollar is perfect for family fun in the sun! Steps from a gorgeous sandy beach, and all the amenities Palm Cay has to offer, including the world class full service marina, water sports, gym, spa, tennis courts, playground, pools, restaurant, coffee shop and bar. Offered unfurnished.

Welcome to Sand Dollar, a grand five bedroom, five and a half bathroom family home the wonderful beachfront, marina based community of Palm Cay. On a double lot, the main house, pool, pool house, guest cottage with three car garage make an impressive homestead, perfect for a large family. Built to the highest specifications, Sand Dollar features a Bermuda roof, hurricane impact doors and windows, plantation shutters, travertine, marble and hardwood floors, high ceilings, a generator, water holding tank, and high efficiency central AC. The grand entryway is flanked by formal living and dining rooms, and overlooking the pool is the custom built gourmet kitchen and spacious open plan dining and living areas. Granite counters, dual islands, an abundance of storage space, high end appliances including a Wolf double oven, Sub Zero fridge, and a built in Miele coffee maker, make this a chef’s dream kitchen. On the second floor there are five bedrooms, four of which are en suite. The large master leads on to a 12’ covered balcony with balmy breezes, stunning marina views, and partial ocean views. The master bathroom is spectacular, with marble floors, a Jacuzzi tub and his and hers spa shower with body jets and dual rain shower heads. A large cedar lined walk in closet completes the master suite. On the third floor is the finished attic currently houses a gym, but with it’s full bathroom, can be used for guests, as an office, den, playroom or media room. Fully landscaped with an enclosed yard, sparkling pool and inviting hot tub, outdoor bar and grill, Sand Dollar is a great house for entertaining, the large covered patio and deck providing shade and space for easy outdoor living. A three car garage and is topped by a one bed, one bath guest cottage, perfect for in laws, caretakers or guests. Located in Palm Cay, Sand Dollar is perfect for family fun in the sun! Steps from a gorgeous sandy beach, and all the amenities Palm Cay has to offer, including the world class full service marina, water sports, gym, spa, tennis courts, playground, pools, restaurant, coffee shop and bar. Offered unfurnished.

Welcome to Sand Dollar, a grand five bedroom, five and a half bathroom family home the wonderful beachfront, marina based community of Palm Cay. On a double lot, the main house, pool, pool house, guest cottage with three car garage make an impressive homestead, perfect for a large family. Built to the highest specifications, Sand Dollar features a Bermuda roof, hurricane impact doors and windows, plantation shutters, travertine, marble and hardwood floors, high ceilings, a generator, water holding tank, and high efficiency central AC. The grand entryway is flanked by formal living and dining rooms, and overlooking the pool is the custom built gourmet kitchen and spacious open plan dining and living areas. Granite counters, dual islands, an abundance of storage space, high end appliances including a Wolf double oven, Sub Zero fridge, and a built in Miele coffee maker, make this a chef’s dream kitchen. On the second floor there are five bedrooms, four of which are en suite. The large master leads on to a 12’ covered balcony with balmy breezes, stunning marina views, and partial ocean views. The master bathroom is spectacular, with marble floors, a Jacuzzi tub and his and hers spa shower with body jets and dual rain shower heads. A large cedar lined walk in closet completes the master suite. On the third floor is the finished attic currently houses a gym, but with it’s full bathroom, can be used for guests, as an office, den, playroom or media room. Fully landscaped with an enclosed yard, sparkling pool and inviting hot tub, outdoor bar and grill, Sand Dollar is a great house for entertaining, the large covered patio and deck providing shade and space for easy outdoor living. A three car garage and is topped by a one bed, one bath guest cottage, perfect for in laws, caretakers or guests. Located in Palm Cay, Sand Dollar is perfect for family fun in the sun! Steps from a gorgeous sandy beach, and all the amenities Palm Cay has to offer, including the world class full service marina, water sports, gym, spa, tennis courts, playground, pools, restaurant, coffee shop and bar. Offered unfurnished.