The office is one of the most elegant “man caves” we have ever seen! Retaining and repointing the gorgeous stone walls, we tore down the roof of an existing covered porch, added a new one, walls and windows to create this “gentleman’s office”. At either end of the room, this space’s focal points are the custom designed shelves we built directly into the stone walls. The room is finished off with raised panels on the ceiling and lighting recessed directly into the soffit. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Transitional kitchen photo in Bridgeport

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Filled with numerous special touches and details, this Tudor home is elegant and sophisticated. The light filled, step-down family room has a custom, vaulted tray ceiling and a custom, built-in home bar with Sub-Zero drink drawers. The gorgeous Rumford double-sided fireplace (the other side is outside on the covered patio) has a custom-made plaster moulding surround with a beige herringbone tile insert. The “gentleman’s office” is a converted former covered porch, with special custom designed shelves that we built directly into the stone walls. The room is finished off with raised panels on the ceiling and lighting recessed directly into the soffit. In the master bath we strategically used mirrors to give the illusion of space and airiness. The custom quartz faucet detail we created behind the soaking tub is unique touch that sets this room apart. We built the covered patio with outdoor Rumford fireplace to blend seamlessly with the original home. Copper flashing on the roof’s design and spiraled lattice iron work are special, subtle, functional details that make this space feel like an European estate. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Take a look at the image of the living/dining space with doors opening to a pool beyond. This is an elegant, finely-appointed room with aged, hand-hewn beams, dormered clerestory windows, and radiant-heated limestone floors. But the real power of the space derives less from these handsome details and more from the wide opening centered on the pool. The occupants of the room feel like they’re poolside, even while inside. When they’re entertaining, it matters little whether guests are on the terrace or in the living room; it all feels like one great space. The four-wide bank of doors is designed so that the central two are hinged directly to the flanking ones. Thus, when opened, they are precisely aligned, it seems as if there are somehow only two doors, and the assembly appears less cluttered. A mechanized, roll-down screen descends from above to completely secure the opening against insects. When the screen is in use, the doors at the far ends are used for passage (a word of advice: make sure to devise a screening solution in any multi-door design). Two images from a seasonal lakefront cottage in East Haddam combine to make an even bolder statement. This three-story building has a master suite occupying the entire third floor.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

The office is one of the most elegant “man caves” we have ever seen! Retaining and repointing the gorgeous stone walls, we tore down the roof of an existing covered porch, added a new one, walls and windows to create this “gentleman’s office”. At either end of the room, this space’s focal points are the custom designed shelves we built directly into the stone walls. The room is finished off with raised panels on the ceiling and lighting recessed directly into the soffit. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

The office is one of the most elegant “man caves” we have ever seen! Retaining and repointing the gorgeous stone walls, we tore down the roof of an existing covered porch, added a new one, walls and windows to create this “gentleman’s office”. At either end of the room, this space’s focal points are the custom designed shelves we built directly into the stone walls. The room is finished off with raised panels on the ceiling and lighting recessed directly into the soffit. Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client’s ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Winner of the 2015 Prism Award for Best use of Interior Glass. Sliding partition wall with frameless glass side-by-side water closet and shower stall. Oasis Shower Doors can be digitally imaged with a permanent image, color, or pattern fused directly into the glass. Great for Logos , pictures. or patterns.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Everywhere we look, we’re surrounded by structures and designs that captivate and draw us in, allowing us to truly appreciate the art of modern architecture. I was very excited to receive a couple of beautiful installation images of our H Series vent-free gas fireplace from Matt Brazeau of Stove King, which operates in Putnam, CT, and Medford, MA. The images show a stunning living room that features large sliding doors and an open layout to the kitchen. What caught my eye was the detailed woodwork and the choice of wall color – I know “dark and moody” is trending but seeing it in a Boston multi-family and done so well, I was captivated and wanted to learn more. Developer Marc Savatsky, owner of Choose Boston, LLC, a multi-function development and real estate company, was behind this project. Marc’s company works throughout Boston and surrounding suburbs to redevelop and market multi-unit properties. Situated in Dorchester’s Neponset section, the property comprises four townhomes styled in a classic federalist design, paying homage to the rich history of the area. Remarkably, all units were spoken for during construction, which reflects a perfect alignment with what buyers are looking for, which is not common at all. Collaborating with Architects and Partners Working with architect Peter Vanko of Vanko Studio and Marc’s spouse and partner, Jessie Franco, the group designed this inviting and sought after living space. Warm and welcoming, with an open and inviting feel, unique building materials, lots of natural light and outdoor living spaces were on the list for what they felt would provide the right character for this property. Elements such as fluted wood were chosen to add visual interest, while the darker palette around the fireplace contributed to the overall aesthetic appeal. The project faced significant challenges with the sloping terrain because Marc had not expected the need for so many retaining walls. But, once they were designed and put in, the challenge turned to charm and provided the landscaping with additional character. Overcoming Development Challenges Addressing the Sloping Land Besides the sloping terrain, another major challenge was adding gas fireplaces into each unit. Due to building constraints preventing traditional venting, the fireplaces were as tricky as the retaining walls. It was important to Marc and Jessie to include fireplaces in these units. They felt that fireplaces provide a beautiful focal point and with the cold months Boston experiences, they would make the units so much more welcoming. After consulting with Matt Brazeau, the choice became clear: the European Home H Series Vent-Free Natural Gas Fireplace. Vent free gas fireplaces are safe alternatives to direct vent fireplaces. They solve the challenge of where to run the venting and provide the living space with a real flame, heat efficiency (99%) and with the H Series, a very clean, European design. The H Series installs similarly to a gas stove – connected to gas and built with an outer body to insulate it from combustibles. It is an easy choice when gas is the preferred type of fuel and venting is difficult or the budget does not allow for the additional space, time, and cost of venting. Vent-free gas fireplaces have been allowed in Massachusetts for 20 years (since 2004) due to their safety, efficiency and practicality. Marc Savatsky: The Developer’s Background From New Jersey to Boston: A Passion for Building Marc grew up in New Jersey and received a construction management degree from Purdue. As the chair of the housing committee on Mayor Walsh’s young advisory council, his love for Boston and building came together. Immersed in the dynamic environment of Boston, he discovered his passion for the city and appreciation of the architectural legacy. Suffolk Construction provided Marc with his formative, early years in the construction business. Over time he honed his skill and knowledge of the construction industry. Having Marc as a developer who values the essence of local history and architecture adds a distinctive touch to his endeavors. It reflects not only a commitment to excellence in construction but also a dedication to harmonizing modern development with the rich tapestry of Boston’s past.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Each home that we are lucky enough to work on, has distinct and unique qualities. From appearance, to dimensions, we can offer a full range of custom options that are guaranteed to look beautiful and perform even better. This specific entryway had a sharp arch top that the customers wanted to accentuate. As designers, we were excited to tackle this project and recreate their vision of the perfect door. From the custom wrought iron design, to the intricate panel details, we worked to create this one-of-a-kind entry door that looks effortless and beautiful. From the shape, to the paneling, to even the finish, we were able to provide a focal point for their home that impresses neighbors and guests. Heritage Style Collection Front Entry Doors In this Modern design age, we see a lot of simple and classic designs. However, we do specialize in intricate and extravagant door construction. We have dozens of custom door options that range in intricacy. Wrought iron details and hand carved panels provide a luxurious Old-European feel with modern day technology and craftsmanship. Our Heritage entry door line will provide your home with an opulent entry. Custom Front Entry Door Design Options A common request from our clients, is to match the door finish to the other wood details on their home. In this project, we were able to get an incredibly close match to their existing garage doors. This design element creates a harmonious and cohesive view to all passerby’s. Our factories are able to color match and provide a perfect shade that will suit every home. Customization options are endless. We encourage our clients to provide inspiration images of what they are looking for (from our website, an internet search or even passing by a house on your walk!). Images help provide our designers with a direction and a starting point to get a quote put together as fast as possible.

Take a look at the image of the living/dining space with doors opening to a pool beyond. This is an elegant, finely-appointed room with aged, hand-hewn beams, dormered clerestory windows, and radiant-heated limestone floors. But the real power of the space derives less from these handsome details and more from the wide opening centered on the pool. The occupants of the room feel like they’re poolside, even while inside. When they’re entertaining, it matters little whether guests are on the terrace or in the living room; it all feels like one great space. The four-wide bank of doors is designed so that the central two are hinged directly to the flanking ones. Thus, when opened, they are precisely aligned, it seems as if there are somehow only two doors, and the assembly appears less cluttered. A mechanized, roll-down screen descends from above to completely secure the opening against insects. When the screen is in use, the doors at the far ends are used for passage (a word of advice: make sure to devise a screening solution in any multi-door design). Two images from a seasonal lakefront cottage in East Haddam combine to make an even bolder statement. This three-story building has a master suite occupying the entire third floor.

ZeroEnergy Design (ZED) created this modern home for a progressive family in the desirable community of Lexington. Thoughtful Land Connection. The residence is carefully sited on the infill lot so as to create privacy from the road and neighbors, while cultivating a side yard that captures the southern sun. The terraced grade rises to meet the house, allowing for it to maintain a structured connection with the ground while also sitting above the high water table. The elevated outdoor living space maintains a strong connection with the indoor living space, while the stepped edge ties it back to the true ground plane. Siting and outdoor connections were completed by ZED in collaboration with landscape designer Soren Deniord Design Studio. Exterior Finishes and Solar. The exterior finish materials include a palette of shiplapped wood siding, through-colored fiber cement panels and stucco. A rooftop parapet hides the solar panels above, while a gutter and site drainage system directs rainwater into an irrigation cistern and dry wells that recharge the groundwater. Cooking, Dining, Living. Inside, the kitchen, fabricated by Henrybuilt, is located between the indoor and outdoor dining areas. The expansive south-facing sliding door opens to seamlessly connect the spaces, using a retractable awning to provide shade during the summer while still admitting the warming winter sun. The indoor living space continues from the dining areas across to the sunken living area, with a view that returns again to the outside through the corner wall of glass. Accessible Guest Suite. The design of the first level guest suite provides for both aging in place and guests who regularly visit for extended stays. The patio off the north side of the house affords guests their own private outdoor space, and privacy from the neighbor. Similarly, the second level master suite opens to an outdoor private roof deck. Light and Access. The wide open interior stair with a glass panel rail leads from the top level down to the well insulated basement. The design of the basement, used as an away/play space, addresses the need for both natural light and easy access. In addition to the open stairwell, light is admitted to the north side of the area with a high performance, Passive House (PHI) certified skylight, covering a six by sixteen foot area. On the south side, a unique roof hatch set flush with the deck opens to reveal a glass door at the base of the stairwell which provides additional light and access from the deck above down to the play space. Energy. Energy consumption is reduced by the high performance building envelope, high efficiency mechanical systems, and then offset with renewable energy. All windows and doors are made of high performance triple paned glass with thermally broken aluminum frames. The exterior wall assembly employs dense pack cellulose in the stud cavity, a continuous air barrier, and four inches exterior rigid foam insulation. The 10kW rooftop solar electric system provides clean energy production. The final air leakage testing yielded 0.6 ACH 50 - an extremely air tight house, a testament to the well-designed details, progress testing and quality construction. When compared to a new house built to code requirements, this home consumes only 19% of the energy. Architecture & Energy Consulting: ZeroEnergy Design Landscape Design: Soren Deniord Design Paintings: Bernd Haussmann Studio Photos: Eric Roth Photography