This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

Shou sugi ban, weathered mesquite wood and white walls around found throughout this modern home, including in the stairway.
Staircase - modern wooden straight metal railing staircase idea in Austin

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

A Family Retreat in Rural Ontario The clients for this project live abroad, and sought a Canadian homestead — an anchor — for their large, young family. During summer and winter holidays, the parents wanted their children immersed in an Ontario landscape like the one in which they were raised. To this end, they requested a “rustic, modern retreat” for their 100-acre property of forest, wetland, and meadows. The family sought a generous home to allow young teenagers and extended family to be comfortable in a remote area for long stays. They sought a casual, comfortable space for the family and their dogs that would encourage activities like hiking and snowshoeing — no fancy entertaining. Under One Roof The most powerful aspect of the design is the long, tent-like roof, which follows the site’s topography. The roof and its ridge beam became the design’s primary focus, shaping the circulation path through the home’s interior, ultimately extending a view toward the forest. A primary technical challenge was the roof’s structure, which despite its 60-metre length needed to seem light. The folds and angles of the steel roof are supported by the meandering ridge-beam. The roof cantilevers and tapers at all edges. At the entry side of the house, the roof lifts like a bird’s wing off the garage volume beneath, sheltering an outdoor terrace. Playing with Heavy and Light Monolithic slate-clad volumes anchor the home and define the space between the curtains of glass. These opaque volumes echo the property’s rock outcrops. The garage, bathrooms, stairs, and pantry are grouped inside, and appear to hold up the dynamic roof. Steel construction was chosen to avoid using the expected material of heavy timber for this forest getaway. Being cognizant of the clients’ desire for a warm interior, it was also important to avoid modernist tendencies for box-like forms. Because the main floor is lifted above the ground and the topography falls away, the main floor is in the treetops while simultaneously filling the lower recreation area with light. A Contemporary Approach to Warmth and Closeness The continuous space of the home, with only bedrooms and bathrooms closed off, is a layout that underscores closeness. The family areas and parents’ area are on the main level. The kids’ bedrooms are bundled into a single slate-clad volume, suspended like a cocoon above the main floor from a 40’ steel beam and accessed by a catwalk. Sustainability To avoid cutting trees, the home was placed on an existing cleared ridge overlooking a wildflower meadow. The home is heated and cooled via a geothermal unit with summer solar gain reduced by significant roof overhangs. The glass walls are triple-pane, and high-efficiency fixtures and equipment for the well and septic system help reduce the home’s environmental impact. Historically, the Canadian identity has been defined by our relationship to the land. Fulfilling the client’s mandate, the home honours that emotional connection through visual and material harmonization with its surroundings.

Lush berry red will bring out all the vibrant tones in a brick wall, beautifully complement roses or other red plants, or blend harmoniously with a solid red wall. Fashion a display of pure elegance for porch or patio with this classic vinyl planter. The Nantucket design features a bowed front, raised panel design, pronounced crown molding detail and improved overflow drains. This beautiful design is shipped pre-assembled and provides an appealing welcome to any home, combining exclusive architectural features with the timeless beauty of tradition. These exclusive designs also include a water miser feature in the base, storing water and releasing to the plant as it needs, hence reducing the frequency of watering. These window boxes never need painting, staining, or sealing. Unlike wood, our window boxes keep their good looks for years with just an occasional rinse with a garden hose. 15 year limited warranty. Steel wall mount brackets included. The optional decorative supports (set of 2) offer a beautiful finishing touch with a classic look. 2ft: Inside dimensions are 20"L x 8"W x 7½"D, outer dimensions 24" x 11½" x 10", holds approx. 2½ gallons of soil. 3ft: Inside dimensions are 31½"L x 8"W x 7½"D, outer dimensions 36" x 11½" x 10", holds approx. 3½ gallons of soil. 4ft: Inside dimensions are 43"L x 8"W x 7½"D, outer dimensions 48" x 11½" x 10", holds approx. 5 gallons of soil. 5ft: Inside dimensions are 55"L x 8"W x 7½"D, outer dimensions 60" x 11½" x 10", holds approx. 6½ gallons of soil.

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

Images by Nic LeHoux Designed as a home and studio for a photographer and his young family, Lightbox is located on a peninsula that extends south from British Columbia across the border to Point Roberts. The densely forested site lies beside a 180-acre park that overlooks the Strait of Georgia, the San Juan Islands and the Puget Sound. Having experienced the world from under a black focusing cloth and large format camera lens, the photographer has a special fondness for simplicity and an appreciation of unique, genuine and well-crafted details. The home was made decidedly modest, in size and means, with a building skin utilizing simple materials in a straightforward yet innovative configuration. The result is a structure crafted from affordable and common materials such as exposed wood two-bys that form the structural frame and directly support a prefabricated aluminum window system of standard glazing units uniformly sized to reduce the complexity and overall cost. Accessed from the west on a sloped boardwalk that bisects its two contrasting forms, the house sits lightly on the land above the forest floor. A south facing two-story glassy cage for living captures the sun and view as it celebrates the interplay of light and shadow in the forest. To the north, stairs are contained in a thin wooden box stained black with a traditional Finnish pine tar coating. Narrow apertures in the otherwise solid dark wooden wall sharply focus the vibrant cropped views of the old growth fir trees at the edge of the deep forest. Lightbox is an uncomplicated yet powerful gesture that enables one to view the subtlety and beauty of the site while providing comfort and pleasure in the constantly changing light of the forest.

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

Whon Photography
Large urban underground carpeted staircase photo in Indianapolis with gray walls and no fireplace

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

Brazilian Cherry The rich beauty of the Brazilian Cherry floor provides the setting for your lifestyle. This floor not only adds value to your home but you will also enjoy a floor who’s richness only improves over time. This hardwood floor tends to become darker as it ages with time. Our Solid Wood Flooring are manufactured with the most advanced technology. These products are designed to be nailed down over plywood. Solid wood flooring should only be installed on or above grade. The interior climate should remain consistent to reduce the natural expansion and contraction of your floor. Hardwood flooring not only enhances the appeal of your home but adds value and beauty as well as insulating your home. This floor will hold its elegance over the years with a minimal care and maintenance. This floor is manufactured with the greatest care and backed by a warranty that assures your satisfaction. We believe in environmental and corporate social responsibility. For every purchase made by our customers, we will sponsor the planting of a tree in their honor. Appearance Color: Dark reddish brown. Grain: Texture fine to medium; luster low to medium, grain straight to very irregular. Properties Hardness: ( Janka 2,200) , harder than Red Oak,( 1210 Janka). Ipe is the hardest specie of its kind. Dimension Stability: This Brazilian species is very stable. Origin: South America Finish: Our floors have 8 layers of low gloss lacquer made by Treffert. It contains: Aluminum oxide, U.V. and anti-scratch. Flooring available: Solid & Engineered Hardwood Flooring Sizes: Solid ¾ x 5 RL 1 – 6 ft. Engineer: 5/8 x 5 RL 1 – 6 ft. The 5/8 flooring has a back support of a 9 ply birch plywood for maximum stability. The wear layer single strip solid is a 4mm top layer glued on the plywood with the latest cold press technology. Moisture Content: 7 – 9 % Warranty: 25 years limited warranty.

This residence was a complete gut renovation of a 4-story row house in Park Slope, and included a new rear extension and penthouse addition. The owners wished to create a warm, family home using a modern language that would act as a clean canvas to feature rich textiles and items from their world travels. As with most Brooklyn row houses, the existing house suffered from a lack of natural light and connection to exterior spaces, an issue that Principal Brendan Coburn is acutely aware of from his experience re-imagining historic structures in the New York area. The resulting architecture is designed around moments featuring natural light and views to the exterior, of both the private garden and the sky, throughout the house, and a stripped-down language of detailing and finishes allows for the concept of the modern-natural to shine. Upon entering the home, the kitchen and dining space draw you in with views beyond through the large glazed opening at the rear of the house. An extension was built to allow for a large sunken living room that provides a family gathering space connected to the kitchen and dining room, but remains distinctly separate, with a strong visual connection to the rear garden. The open sculptural stair tower was designed to function like that of a traditional row house stair, but with a smaller footprint. By extending it up past the original roof level into the new penthouse, the stair becomes an atmospheric shaft for the spaces surrounding the core. All types of weather – sunshine, rain, lightning, can be sensed throughout the home through this unifying vertical environment. The stair space also strives to foster family communication, making open living spaces visible between floors. At the upper-most level, a free-form bench sits suspended over the stair, just by the new roof deck, which provides at-ease entertaining. Oak was used throughout the home as a unifying material element. As one travels upwards within the house, the oak finishes are bleached to further degrees as a nod to how light enters the home. The owners worked with CWB to add their own personality to the project. The meter of a white oak and blackened steel stair screen was designed by the family to read “I love you” in Morse Code, and tile was selected throughout to reference places that hold special significance to the family. To support the owners’ comfort, the architectural design engages passive house technologies to reduce energy use, while increasing air quality within the home – a strategy which aims to respect the environment while providing a refuge from the harsh elements of urban living. This project was published by Wendy Goodman as her Space of the Week, part of New York Magazine’s Design Hunting on The Cut. Photography by Kevin Kunstadt

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.

The 722 Ash Street residence consists of a 1500 sf primary house with a contiguous 500 sf accessory dwelling. The project is set in the rich culture of North Lawrence, its rear property line abuts the Lawrence levee trail which runs for nine miles along the north bank of the Kansas River. North Lawrence is known for its quality soil, large trees, curbless streets and random size parcels before it breaks into larger farms further from the urban center. It is built on the typical orthogonal grid of American development, but it represents the older growth of the city prior to urban planners and zoning regulations. The rumble of freight trains and farm trucks in the shadows of the towering grain elevators are only blocks away. It is home to many who enjoy being only a bridge crossing away from Lawrence’s vibrant downtown but are far enough away to maintain their independence from many of the restrictions on living near the historic district. They can work in their large gardens and toiling in their garages and shops in a manner more rural than urban. The house on 722 Ash St. is imbued with the character of North Lawrence and the Levee Trail area. The design was inspired by the Midwestern farmstead vernacular of the region. These timeless vernacular qualities house all the accommodations necessary for modern, sustainable living. A unique feature of this house is the Accessory Dwelling Unit permitted in the zoning district. It is a small separate residence on the same lot that can be used for income property or for extended family members. It also supports the city of Lawrence’s goals of increased density close to downtown rather than continued sprawl into the countryside. The buildings use technology and common-sense design to reduce the building’s footprint and assure the owners low energy use and costs. A 4.9 Kw solar collection system is located on the only south facing gable and the super insulated envelopes (r-62 roof and r-35 walls) of all three forms easily exceeds the standards. Studio 804 continues their long standing pattern of maintaining the highest level of sustainable design while remaining contextually sensitive to the surrounding community. This house, like every Studio 804 project since 2008, is USGBC LEED Platinum Certified.